Cats and Dogs, a Magazine Devoted to Companion Animals

cats and DogS B

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A Magazine Devoted to Companion Animals

Jill Bannink-Albrecht with Suzie Tyson’s Place receives grant Page 27

Pearl needs a home Page 30

Fall 2018

Paula Smith and Pepper Ask the Trainer – Page 5

Spirit needs a home Page 23

FREE

Janet Vormittag is the author of two novels, Dog 281 and

More Than a Number. Her latest book, You Might be a Crazy Cat Lady if ... is a humorous memoir.

Janet is also the publisher of Cats and Dogs, a Magazine Devoted to Companion Animals.

You Might be a Crazy Cat Lady if ... is a collection of short stories about some of the cats Janet has lived with, both as permanent house mates and fosters.

If you’ve ever wondered how someone ends up as a crazy cat lady, this book will help you understand!

$13.95 plus tax ($14.79)

Free shipping if bought through PayPal at

janetvormittag.com or by check.

Make check payable to Janet Vormittag.

Mail to: Cats and Dogs, P.O. Box 996, Jenison, Mi 49429-0996 Also available at Amazon.com

Scalawag has been an outstanding cat all year (at least, according to him). Any troublesome incidents that Santa may or may not have heard about to the contrary can be fully explained. So, he sets out to write Santa a series of letters in anticipation of Christmas, and of course expressing his Christmas gift wish—a Catman and Robin video game. After a series of incidents, Scalawag revises his wish to one that expresses the true warmth and spirit of Christmas.

Dear Santa (released Sept. 1. 2018) is Norma Lewis’ fifth book for children. She’s also the author of several local history books.

Dear Santa will be available at Barnes & Noble, the Bookman in Grand Haven, other select bookstores and Amazon.com.

For all you cat lovers, Norma Lewis and Janet Vormittag are doing a series of book signings/events together. They will be at: Sept. 29 & 30, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Petapalooza (See ad on page 18 for details) at Nelis’ Dutch Village 12350 James St., Holland, MI

Thursday, Nov. 15, 6 p.m.

The Bookman (reading and signing) 715 Washington Ave. Grand Haven, MI

Nov. 16-18 The 27th annual Christmas Through Lowell www.christmasthroughlowell.org Lowell Farm and Wildlife Center 12494 Vergennes St., Lowell, MI Saturday, Oct. 20, 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.

Friday, Nov. 16, 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Between the Covers (reading and signing) Saturday, Nov. 17, 9 a.m to 7 p.m.

6660 Blair Lane, Holland, MI Sunday, Nov. 18. 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Check www.janetvormittag.com for additional dates and locations.

Saturday, Oct. 6, 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.

Barnes & Noble’s Trail of Authors 5275 Harvey St., Muskegon, MI

Fall 2018 • www.catsanddogsmagazine.com

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CONTENTS Animals for Adoption Carol’s Ferals .......................................................................

6

Cannonsville Critters ..................................................

10

Reuben’s Room Cat Rescue ............................................

14

Muskegon Humane Society .........................................

16

BestPals Animal Rescue ..................................................

23

Noah Project ........................................................................ 26

Almost Every Month On the Wild Side ................................................................

5

Ask the Trainer ............................................ ......................

5

Business Card Directory ..............................................

7

Furry Philosophy ............................................................... 11 Calendar of Events ..........................................................

12

Cat Corner ............................................................................. 13 Willow’s World ..................................................................

24

Community Resource Guide .......................................

28

West Michigan Critter Haven ..................................

30

Midnight needs a home Page 23

In Memory ............................................................................... 31

Features Lowell Farm & WIldlife Center ................................

9

Laketown Cat Hospital .................................................. 19 Shelter Statistics ..............................................................

20

PetCo Awards grant to Pound Buddies ............

27

Tyson’s Place receives grant .....................................

27

Advice from a Rescue Intake Coordinator .....

31

Cats and Dogs PO Box 996, Jenison, MI 49429-0996 616-777-0645 catsanddogsmagazine@comcast.net www.catsanddogsmagazine.com Cats and Dogs, founded in 2006, is a free publication supported by advertisers. Magazines are distributed throughout Kent, Ottawa, Muskegon and surrounding counties. We are not responsible for services and products advertised. All rights reserved. No part of this magazine may be reproduced without permission from the publisher.

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Willow’s World - Page 24

Publisher: Janet Vormittag Owner: JLV Enterprises LLC Deadlines Spring: Feb. 15 - Summer: May 15 Fall: August 15 - Winter: Nov. 15 Home delivery of Cats and Dogs is $16 per year. Make your check payable to Cats and Dogs and mail to: Cats and Dogs, P.O. Box 996, Jenison, MI 49429-0996

Advertising information: 616-777-0645 - catsanddogsmagazine@comcast.net

www.catsanddogsmagazine.com • Fall 2018

On the Wild Side

Ask the Trainer

with Allyson Swanson Our baby season is finally drawing to close as we slowly work through the last of the babies coming in for rehabilitation. As with all aspects of rehab, you never know what a new season will bring and this one was no different. From a baby gray fox kit to a baby mink, hundreds of birds, ducks, opossums, squirrels and bunnies there was no shortage of excitement at WRC! One such surprise came in the form of a 6-monthold opossum we took in just before Christmas of 2017.

Admitted for what appeared to be an infected owl wound on his back, Forrest the opossum is lucky to have survived. Affectionately called “a hot mess” by our rehabbers, Forrest had to undergo extensive twice-a-day wound treatments, medications for pain and infection, frostbite treatments to his ears and tail and medications to control seizures due to the infection near his spine.

Miraculously we were able to heal him completely, but due to his injuries he suffered some brain damage and lost his fear of humans. All this has made him unreleasable. We believe that the late Cookie, our opossum education ambassador, sent Forrest to us. Forrest has since taken up Cookie’s vacant spot on our Education Team.

Another surprise was a gray fox. Gray fox are rare in this area and the Good Samaritan who brought her in mistook her for an orphaned squirrel. Found in the road, it is likely mom was moving her from one den to another and got hit by a car. “Squirrel” melted our hearts, but we knew once she began to grow, we were not equipped with appropriate enclosures or other foxes for her to grow up with. We made the decision to transfer her to our friends at Nottingham Nature Nook in Lansing. A week later, we found ourselves with two red fox kits after a farmer shot their mom. Back in the car and another drive to Lansing.

We are happy to report that all foxes are doing well and are expected to be able to be released early fall.

Don’t forget to follow us on Facebook, Instagram or Twitter to stay up to date on all the “surprises” coming in this year. Want to help our cause? Donate to our animals on our website at wildlife-rehab-center.org!

Allyson Swanson is a Licensed Wildlife Rehabilitator with Wildlife Rehab Center Ltd, 1504 Union Ave NE, Grand Rapids. She has been licensed for the past 5 years but started as a volunteer over twelve years ago. Since then she has worked with countless species of birds and mammals and has become one of the main local resources for Virginia Opossums.

She is also the Center’s Education Coordinator and does presentations with their Educational Ambassador Animal “Forrest” the Opossum. allyson@wildlife-rehab-center.org – 616-606-5805.

Fall 2018 • www.catsanddogsmagazine.com

Question: How can I get my dog to stop jumping on my guests and me?

Whenever a dog is doing something we don’t want them to do, we need to think about why they are doing it.

What are they getting out of it?

Dogs have behaviors they naturally do, just like humans. Sometimes the natural behaviors of dogs do not match what we want in our homes. In these cases, we can teach our dogs something else or to stop behaviors they are doing. This helps us live together happily.

Jumping is one of these behaviors. Not everyone wants a dog to jump on them. Dogs instinctively jump up on people to greet them. This is a natural behavior and we see young puppies do this. One of the ways dogs greet each other is face-to-face so they want to get their face up to ours to greet us. They have to jump on us to get to our face.

When a dog jumps up on a person, the person responds with their own behavior. Many people bend down to interact with the dog. They might talk to the dog or even pet them. This is something the dog likes so they are more likely to do it again. Dogs (just like people) repeat behaviors that get them things they like.

The best way to stop dogs from jumping is to only give them attention when they have four feet on the floor. Teach them to sit for attention. They can’t jump when their butt is on the ground. One way to do that is to simply give them attention or a treat when they are sitting. Do this repeatedly. Don’t reward jumping, now your dog is sitting instead of jumping.

Paula Smith is a certified professional dog trainer through the CCPDT and is the founder of Dog Blessed, LLC in Montague.

She has served on animal welfare boards and works with them and other community groups to enhance the lives of dogs and teach others about dog behavior and humane science-based training techniques focused on relationships. Her goal is to strengthen the relationship between humans and canines by focusing on enhancing cross species communication. If you have a question you would like to have answered here, please email Paula at dogblessedllc@gmail.com or contact her at www. dogblessedllc.com.

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www.catsanddogsmagazine.com • Fall 2018

BUSINESS CARD DIRECTORY Who will take care of your pets if you can’t?

Pet Trusts: • Ensure your pets will be taken care of for the rest of their lives.

• Can be a stand-alone document or part of your Estate Plan.

• Different options depending on your needs and budget.

Don’t leave your pets’ future to chance! www.michiganpettrust.com 616-682-5574 – info@cottrelljacobs.com

Oak Haven Providing all the dignity you r Forever Friend deserves

Contact us for advertising information

email catsanddogsmagazine@comcast.net

616-949-1390 www.noahspetcemetery.com

call 616-777-0645

noahspc@comcast.net

Cats and Dogs is now published quarterly.

Edition Spring Summer Fall Winter

Deadline Feb.15 May 15 August 15 Nov. 15

Distributed by March 1 June 1 Sept.1 Dec. 1

Fall 2018 • www.catsanddogsmagazine.com

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www.catsanddogsmagazine.com • Fall 2018

Lowell Farm and Wildlife Center

By Janet Vormittag Last year 1,558 animals got a second chance at life thanks to Sjana Gordon and her band of volunteers at the non-profit Lowell Farm and Wildlife Center.

“I love helping animals,” Sjana said.

Her road to rehabbing began several years ago when she went to a wedding in Grand Rapids. Near the happy event a deer had been hit and killed by a car, leaving behind a fawn. Sjana took the baby home and called a rehabber.

The incident inspired her to become a licensed wildlife rehabilitator. She now sees helping animals as her calling. Wildlife rehabbers are licensed by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources. They provide aid to injured, orphaned, displaced or distressed wild animals so they can be released to their native habitats.

Sjana is licensed to take in Michigan reptiles and mammals including squirrels, raccoons, deer and opossums. She no longer accepts adult raccoons. She calls them “a bear in a small package.” She’s had a couple volunteers bitten by adult raccoons and will no longer jeopardize their safety.

The spring, when they can get more than 75 calls per day, is the busiest time. It’s when orphaned and displaced babies are brought in.

“We do the best we can. We give them a second chance. If we don’t step in, they’re dead.”

Not all the animals brought in survive. Tears are shed for each one who doesn’t make it.

“The day I stop crying is the day I’ll quit,” she said.

The state requires wild animals be returned to the wild when they’re able to fend for themselves.

Sjana and her husband, Bob, have lived in Lowell for 34 years. She’s been doing rescue for 25 years. They built a 60-by-40-foot barn when the number of animals outgrew the house––100 was the tipping point.

Five volunteers help with the workload. They do laundry, clean cages, feed babies, muck barns––they do everything but intake.

Years ago, Sjana worked as a nurse and said her medical background comes in helpful in working with the animals. The DNR licensing requires continuing education classes where animal care is taught.

The Center is funded through donations and an annual fundraiser. The third weekend of November the Center is one of the more than 50 stops on Christmas Through Lowell. The barn is converted to a store where artisans sell their goods with part of their profits donated to the Center.

Sjana said people come from across the state to the fundraiser and the money raised is their primary source of income.

Last year at the holiday sale, Sjana sold 81 of her Fall 2018 • www.catsanddogsmagazine.com

Sjana Gordon, founder of Lowell Farm and Wildlife Center, with Duffy the goat. handmade wool rugs. The materials are donated so the only investment is her time––she works on them throughout the year. She also works a part-time job.

“I don’t have enough time in my days,” she said.

The Center also takes in farm animals.

One horse she rescued was so near death that on a scale from 0 to 10, with 0 being dead, the vet rated the horse at ½. But with TLC, the horse lived and was eventually adopted.

Most of the farm animals are rehomed, but a few call the Center home. Permanent residents include 18 geese, 15 ducks, 11 goats and more than 40 chickens. Eggs are sold to raise funds.

Two of those permanent residents are Alexander the Great Goose and his mate Elizabeth Taylor. There’s also a blind goose and a goose who was incubated with chickens and thinks he’s a chicken. Instead of hanging out at the pond, he loiters around the chicken pen.

The center has 20 acres and a pond for the ducks and geese … and some freeloading Canada geese.

They receive a lot of calls to take in roosters. While some cities allow residents to keep chickens, they don’t allow their male counterparts. When female chicks are bought at farm supply stores, sometimes they’ve been wrongly sexed. When the cute fluffy chicks grow up, people are surprised when they turn out to be roosters.

Also common are calls from people who bought baby ducks on a whim. Sjana said ducks are a 9-year commitment and they ‘poop every five steps’ making them a stinky pet. She wishes stores wouldn’t sell ducks as Easter pets. This year she ended up with 45 ducks who had been purchased for the holiday.

“Animals are so throw-away. It’s so sad. It breaks my heart,” she said.

For more information visit www.farmwildlife.org or call 616-885-4223.

For information on Christmas Through Lowell visit www.christmasthroughlowell.org.

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www.catsanddogsmagazine.com • Fall 2018

Furry Philosophy

By Jodi Jarvis -Therrian “If there ever comes a day when we can’t be together, keep me in your heart, I’ll stay there forever.” ~Winnie the Pooh This describes my heart’s feelings about my soul-dog, Odin J. As his 14th year approaches in November, I write this, sometimes choking back tears, to help those dealing with the same struggles I am dealing with. If you own a pet, inevitably there will be a day.

Odin and I hope that sharing this with you will make your path easier. Hopefully, you’ll have more quality and time to make magical memories.

As a good friend of mine, a canine guru, Tonya Christiansen, from Must Love Dogs Boutique and Spa states, “The big thing I want people to remember is empathy. I see where sometimes people treat their dogs like they are two years old their entire lives with the same physical and mental expectations. I had to put out nightlights, area rugs and install a dog door for my dogs as they aged. They can’t climb stairs like they used to or may not see or hear as well. We need to be aware of those changes for them and help them age gracefully.”

I have to agree with her 100 percent. Since Odin turned 13, at times he reminds me of my dear dad before he passed. He wanted what he wanted, and he wanted it immediately. It is humorous when Odin barks at the dehydrator with his organ treats on it, like it is an automatic food dispenser.

At other times, not so much. Odin now does not want to walk when we leave home, but turn around and head towards home and he is like a horse galloping to the stable, happily and quickly. My compromise, I found a Burley Bike trailer on ebay, and with the help of lawn chair bottom, it is his cart. He happily goes in it and acts like the king of awesomeness that he is.

Once I turn around to go home he will get ants in his pants, barking and straining at the halter to be released.

I have found that thinking creatively, compromising, and watching body language helps you help them.

We still walk, we still play, Odin just needs more consideration and an old-fashioned ear trumpet to aid in hearing. I am thankful I taught him hand signals for behaviors (something to keep in mind when teaching any age dog). Another great idea, I am thankful I taught him, is to come to a stomping foot or a light flashing on and off.

Fall 2018 • www.catsanddogsmagazine.com

In the past I have written about holistic ideas and practices that have assisted Odin and my Cheyenne (now at the Rainbow Bridge) with aging and things we face as pet parents of seniors. They can be found at furryphilophy.blogspot.com. Look for the titles: You Are What You Eat, Canine Nutrition with Paula Smith, Helping Your Furry Friends Age with Grace, “Nature Itself is the Best Physician.” -Hippocrates, TTouch , a Second Look, Keeping Your Furry Friends Joyous and Pain Free, HONORING OUR ANIMAL FRIENDS LIVES WITH LOVE. When you are researching what is best for your senior pet, I also suggest giving CBD oil a try. It has helped Odin immensely when I added it to his regimen.

It can be purchased at Must Love Dogs in Grand Haven, along with many items that can help your aging dog.

There is a difference in quality, so do your homework.

According to Medical News Today, “Unlike THC, CBD is not psychoactive. This means that it does not change the state of mind of the person (or dog) who uses it. However, CBD oil does appear to produce significant changes in the body, and some research suggests that it has medical benefits.” It has various other health benefits, such as inhibiting cell growth in tumors, aiding seizures and more, that are worth researching and reading.

In my personal opinion, I also cannot reiterate enough how important that incorporating whole healthy foods into your dogs diet can be. It can nourish healthy organs and give the body the defenses and nutrients.

Above all, cherish, and make every day a special day, a happy day with your pet, a day full of moments that one day you will hold in your heart as special memories.

Keep connected on Facebook: Memory Stones by Jodi, Furry Philosophy, Camp Kylee, Odin J’s Earthly Treasures, Dog Blessed LLC Also furryphilosophy. blogspot.com.

Memory Stones by Jodi Honoring the memories of your loved ones in a beautiful way.

Fur or ashes can be permanently fused in a stone that can be made into a sun catcher, keychain or jewelry.

www.memorystonesbyjodi.com

231-893-1227

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Calendar Pet Adoptions, Fund-raisers, Special Events Adoption Events Wednesdays – 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. and Sundays – 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. Cat and kitten adoptions at Carol’s Ferals and Friendlies, 4600 Knapp NE, Grand Rapids. (Brooknelle Pet Resort) Saturdays and Sundays – Noon to 5 p.m. Heaven Can Wait Animal Haven cat and kitten adoptions at PetCo, 5239 Harvey St., Muskegon. 231-737-5644.

First Saturday of the month – 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. Harbor Humane Society Adoption Event at Petco, 3424 W Shore Dr., Holland. https://harborhumane.org/community-events/.

Sept. 21 – Noon to 2 p.m. Harbor Humane Society Donation Drop-Off and Adoption Event at Elhart in Holland, 786 Chicago Dr., Holland.

Sept. 21 – 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Harbor Humane Society Adoption Event at Advanced Auto Parts, 11 W Washington Ave., Zeeland.

Fund-raisers and Special Events Second Tuesday of every month – 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m.

West Michigan Pet Loss Support Group at Heaven at Home’s offices, 1530 Monroe NW, Grand Rapids. Facilitated by Ginny Mikita. All are welcome. Please bring a photo of the companion animal(s) you have lost or are losing. RSVP at 616-460-0373 by noon the day of the meeting.

Sept. 9, Oct. 14, Nov. 11 – 1 p.m. Crash’s Landing Volunteer Tour, 1545 Diamond NE, Grand Rapids. RSVP to volunteers@ crashslanding.org.

First and third Saturday of the month – 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Humane Society and Animal Rescue of Muskegon County Adoption Event at PetSmart, 1720 E. Sherman Blvd., Muskegon.

Sept. 13 – Thursday 6:30 p.m. Cat Yoga at BestPals. Bring your yoga mat. $10 donation suggested, 6674 Blair Lane, Holland.

(At BestPals Animal Rescue Center event building.) www.bestpalsrescue.org

First and third Saturday of the month – Noon to 3 p.m.

Lake Haven Rescue Adoption Days when we bring available dogs to Pet Supplies Plus, 4920 Wilson Ave. SW, Grandville. www.lakehavenrescue.org.

Sept. 15 – 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Recovery Fest at Centennial Park Holland. Visit BestPals Rescue adoptable dogs and cats, applications will be accepted. www.bestpalsrescue.org.

Second Saturday of the month – 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Humane Society and Animal Rescue of Muskegon County Adoption Event at Chow Hound, 628 North Beacon Blvd., Grand Haven.

Second Saturday of the month – 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Harbor Humane Society Adoption Event at Chow Hound, 660 Chicago Dr., Holland. https://harborhumane.org/community-events/.

Third Saturday of the month – Noon to 3 p.m. Harbor Humane Society Adoption Event at Chow Hound, 628 N Beacon Blvd., Grand Haven. https://harborhumane.org/communityevents/.

Sept. 1 – 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Pound Buddies Rescue Adoption Event at Chow Hound, 628 N Beacon Blvd., Grand Haven. www.poundbuddies.org.

Sept. 1 – 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Pound Buddies Rescue Adoption Event at PetCo, 5239 Harvey St., Muskegon. www.poundbuddies.org.

Sept. 2 – 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Pound Buddies Rescue Adoption Event at PetCo, 5239 Harvey St., Muskegon. www.poundbuddies.org.

Sept. 8 & 22 – 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Pound Buddies Rescue Adoption Event at Chalet, 307 W Western, Muskegon.

Sept. 9 – 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Pound Buddies Rescue Adoption Event at Pet Supplies Plus, 2500 E Beltline SE, Grand Rapids.

Sept. 15 – Noon to 3 p.m. Pound Buddies Rescue Adoption event at Family, Farm & Home, 2301 Holton Rd., North Muskegon.

Sept. 16, Oct. 7 & 21, Nov. 4 & 18 – 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. Crash’s Landing Meet & Greet Open Adoption Hours, 1545 Diamond NE, Grand Rapids. For more information; adoptions@ crashslanding.org.

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Sept. 27 – 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. Eat at Pieology Pizzeria, 2006 E Beltline Ave., Grand Rapids and 20% of your purchase will be donated to Carol’s Ferals.

Sept. 29 & 30 – 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. West Michigan Petapalooza at Nelis’ Dutch Village, 12350 James St., Holland. See ad on page 18.

Nov. 16 – 6:30 p.m. Hearts of Hope Dog Rescue’s Annual Raise the Woof fundrasier at The Stache Bar in the Intersection, 133 Grandville, Grand Rapids, MI. Cash bar, live band, grab bags, raffle prizes, food and adoptable dogs.

Nov. 17 – Crash’s Landing 10th annual Whisker’s & Wine Gala at Crossroads Conference Center, 6569 Clay SW, Grand Rapids.

Doors open at 5:30 p.m., dinner at 7 p.m.

The 27th annual Christmas Through Lowell Where: Lowell Farm and Wildlife Center 12494 Vergennes St., Lowell, MI When: Friday, Nov. 16, 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Saturday, Nov. 17, 9 a.m to 7 p.m.

Sunday, Nov. 18. 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

What: Several artisans will be selling their goods with a portion of their proceeds benefiting The Lowell Farm and Wildlife Center.

The Lowell Farm and Wildlife Center is one of the stops on the 27th annual Christmas Through Lowell. For more information visit www.christmasthroughlowell.org.

www.catsanddogsmagazine.com • Fall 2018

Cat Corner

Call for an Appointment

Hello from the Cats of Ireland!

231-366-7067

By Michele Dunckel The move to Ireland has gone well. I love it here in Glynsk, a little town in the northwestern part of Connemara. While it was stressful getting both of my cats here, Elsa and Johnnie have adjusted quickly. My new house has many windows where they spend most of their time, rain or shine.

The plight of cats in Ireland is sad. Most people consider their dogs or cats working animals rather than pets. Dogs, of course, help with the farm chores, herding sheep and cattle around the fields. Cats are expected to keep the house and barns free of vermin. While they are spayed or neutered, most live outdoors. The only place I could find a litter box and litter was at the local veterinarian’s office.

Cats are tested for rabies, FIV and FELV, but vaccinated only against rabies. There are no spay and neuter clinics, but the local veterinarian gives reduced rates to the animal rescue agencies. There is only one rescue agency in the Connemara area that works with cats. Madra (the Irish word for dog) is an agency that works exclusively with dogs in Connemara but helps all areas of the country. They even have a staff pet psychologist. The Irish SCPA works in the more populated areas of Ireland like Dublin, Limerick and Cork.

The Irish appreciate their dogs far more than their cats, but I’ve seen many working dogs in need of attention for dirty, matted coats and lacking in healthy nutrition. Working cats are found in the same condition.

The vet has assured me that when these working cats are injured or sick, their owners bring them in for treatment.

From what I’ve observed, though, it seems they overlook fleas and respiratory problems.

There are many feral cats where I live. They’re obviously intact and suffering from many different ailments. I’ve not seen any kittens running around so I speculate the many unneutered males kill the kittens they’ve created. With the number of diseased, aggressive cats around, I’ve redoubled my efforts to assure my cats don’t sneak outside.

So, there is much work to do here. I’m working with the Renvyle Animal Rescue which works mostly with cats and am awaiting my first batch for foster kittens. I also do my best to trap the local strays to get them sterilized and vaccinated before returning them to their territories.

There is little hope of finding a home for these ferals.

Gotta get started!

After 50 years of personal cat rescue and twelve years of owning a one-of-a-kind cat hotel, Michele Dunckel retired and relocated to Boston. Then she moved to Ireland! Her passion for cats continues. Reach her at micheledunckel@gmail.com.

Fall 2018 • www.catsanddogsmagazine.com

West Michigan Spay & Neuter Clinic (a 501c3 non-profit organization that accepts donations)

A low-cost spay/neuter clinic.

6130 Airline Road Fruitport, MI 49415 www.wmspayandneuter.org info@wmspayandneuter.org

In-Home Pet Care When You Can’t Be There THE CAT’S MEOW Pet Sitters Jeanine Buckner Veterinary Assistant

616-791-9696 Loving Home Care For Your Pet During my 18 years of working in veterinary medicine, I realized the need for an alternative to boarding. Thus, The Cat’s Meow Pet Sitters was created.

By keeping your feline friend in her familiar home surroundings, you and your cat experience less stress while you are away. My first home visit with you and your cat is at no charge. Information regarding medical care, instructions on feeding and watering, litter box patrol and playing with and/or grooming your cat will all be discussed. At no additional charge, bringing in mail and/or newspapers and watering plants can also be done. Pampering your cat in her/his own home is a wise alternative to boarding. Your cat will thank you!

Jeanine Buckner, Owner Cats and Dogs -13

This Reuben’s Room page is sponsored by Sleepy Hollow Pet Cemetery.

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www.catsanddogsmagazine.com • Fall 2018

Fall 2018 • www.catsanddogsmagazine.com

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No kill, Non-Profit Shelter 2640 Marquette Ave., Muskegon, MI 49442 (231) 773-8689 office@muskegonhumanesociety.org www.muskegonhumanesociety.org “like” us on facebook! facebook.com/muskegonhumane Wednesday, Thursday, Friday: 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Tuesday: 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. – Saturday: 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Closed Sunday and Monday Cleo is an unconventional kitty in need of a cat-savvy human. A beautiful girl who has a mind of her own, Cleo is plucky, sassy and sometimes a little over-the-top. Cleo would do best in a home with older children and lots of loving patience. Stop in today if you have the experience and talk with us about Cleo.

I’m Cruiser! I’m a 2-year-old terrier/lab mix. I am an active boy, so I would do best with an active family and a yard to play in. I like playing with my friends, but in my home I’d like to be the only dog. I’m smart and love to learn. If you are interested in adopting me, the staff suggests volunteering first so you can get to know me. I have been working really hard on my manners, so it’s important to be consistent to set me up for success.

I’m Meg! I’m an older girl looking for my forever home. Don’t let my age fool you, I’m still very playful! I love to play, go for walks, and hang out with my people. The staff is so surprised that I didn’t have a family come and claim me; I seem like I have been very well cared for, I have had some training, and I’m a social butterfly.

I’m just an all around awesome girl, the only thing I ask is that I don’t have to live with any cats, because I am not a fan!

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I’m Smooch! I got my name because I love to give smooches, and I’m just so smoochable! I’m a silly and happy girl.

I LOVE to play with my toys and prance around the yard with them. I get along great with people, but have not had a chance to meet any dogs or other animals here. I’ld benefit from basic manners training, which comes free with my adoption. I’d love big yard to run and play in!

Leslie is a 1-year-old girl who has made it into our Hall of Fame as a rockstar momma! When she arrived as a stray in April, her round belly clued us to the fact she was expecting a litter. Within a couple weeks, Leslie delivered a HUGE litter of nine kittens! She was a doting and attentive momma. That alone was enough to make her a rock star, but a month after her babies were born a motherless litter of five kittens arrived. Without hesitation Leslie took them in. She single-handedly raised 14 tiny youngsters, all of whom are happy, healthy and thriving adoptable kittens. Because of her deep maternal instincts, we are hoping Leslie shares her future with one of her babies.

Meet Zooboomafu! This tiny girl arrived at our shelter, along with her siblings Narchi and Gooble. They were found as cast offs at the end of a rural road, a story we hear often. Zooboomafu will need a cat savvy foster/owner who knows to take things slowly and has plenty of time to dedicate to socializing her. A quiet home will be best, as lots of noise and activity will likely reinforce her fear of humans. She would be great for an empty nester or a person who works from home. With time and devotion, she will blossom into a loving kitty cat!

This page paid for by Clock Timeless Pets!

www.catsanddogsmagazine.com • Fall 2018

Fall 2018 • www.catsanddogsmagazine.com

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“Compassionate Care for all Cats.”

Dedicated and compassionate care for your furry family member is our top priority. In a quiet and feline friendly environment we provide: * Internal medicine * Ultrasound and X-ray * Dentistry and oral surgery * Ophthalmologic surgery * Feline boarding * Routine vaccinations and examinations * Behavioral consultation * In-house and reference blood work and more

Stop in and visit us at 3604 64th St., Saugatuck, Michigan or call us at 269-455-5056 to schedule an appointment. www.laketowncathospital.com West Michigan PET-A-PALOOZA New Location!

New Date!

September 29 & 30 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

At Nelis’ Dutch Village 12350 James St. Holland, MI Follow our Facebook page for updates: www.facebook.com/petapaloozaholland There will be rescue groups, vendors, demonstrations by Holland Police Department K9 unit, contests, scavenger hunt, Dutch Dance performers and more.

Admission: $12/adult; $11/senior citizen; $10 child.

Half of the admission fee will be donated to Holland Police Dept. K9 unit. The admission fee includes: entrance to the shops, rides (chair swing; carousel; Ferris Wheel). There is an on-site cafe with food and drinks (non-alcoholic and alcoholic) for purchase.

West Michigan Chow Hound locations will have drop boxes for donated items (purchase at least a $7 item at Chow Hound, leave it at the Chow Hound location and receive a free admission wristband per $7 item). No limit. All items bought and left at Chow Hound will be donated to the rescue groups in attendance.

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www.catsanddogsmagazine.com • Fall 2018

Laketown Cat Hospital Specializing in Cats

By Janet Vormittag A chance encounter between two students has evolved into the LakeTown Cat Hospital in Saugatuck.

Veterinarians Angela Palen and her husband, Adam Klomp, opened the feline-only clinic Nov. 30, 2017.

The couple met in the Feline Club at Michigan State University while studying veterinary medicine. Klomp explained that lectures and anatomy books are geared towards dogs, and cats are often an after thought. The feline club promoted cats and was the student chapter of the American Association of Feline Practitioners.

Palen said she always had a heart for cats and knew she would work at a feline-only practice. After graduation she did just that­­­­––in Waterford and the Ann Arbor area.

She said there are more than a half dozen feline-only practices in Michigan.

Klomp’s goal was to work with exotic and zoo animals. He said working with cats is a good compromise.

“Cats are a domesticated animal with an exotic attitude.”

For most of his career, Klomp worked in general and emergency room medicine but has spent the last five years practicing ophthalmology. He still works part-time at practices on the other side of the state.

“The long-term goal is to be here full time. A new practice takes time,” he said.

When the couple decided to open their own practice, they looked at the demographics of several places around the state. They felt Saugatuck was a unique area where people care about their pets yet was under served when it came to veterinarian services.

Plus, it was close to the beach. The couple has two young children, and they feel the lakeshore area is a good place to raise a family.

Klomp, who grew up in Hudsonville, was familiar with Saugatuck.

Palen, who grew up in Holly, which is south of Flint, had never been to the tourist town until they visited to see if it was a viable place to start their practice.

“I fell in love with the place,” she said.

They found the perfect location for their venture; it had good visibility and easy access to US 31.

Klomp noted that cats don’t like long car rides, but people will drive hours for specialized medicine such as ophthalmology, which is one of his specialties.

The building on the site was older and most recently used as a café and bakery.

“It was solid––it had good bones,” Palen said. The building was gutted and rebuilt as a clinic. The couple did a lot of the work themselves. Palen said decorating was the most fun.

Fall 2018 • www.catsanddogsmagazine.com

Veterinarians Angela Palen and her husband, Adam Klomp, in the lobby of their feline-only practice, Laketown Cat Hospital in Saugatuck.

The lobby will make any cat lover comfortable.

There’s a cat buddha above the fireplace, cat books, cat pillows, cat art on the walls, a cat lamp and a cat clock.

What are the benefits of taking your cat to a cats-only practice?

“People have to experience it,” Klomp said.

Everything is designed for cats. The exam rooms are smaller and have windows because cats like windows.

All the equipment, including anesthesia machine and oxygenation chamber, is sized for cats.

With specializing in one species, Klomp and Palen have more expertise and efficiency. All their continuing education is geared towards cats and they embrace new ideas.

They do 45-minute consultations and take the time to do follow ups, which is important because cats don’t always show outward signs of illness.

Klomp advises people to look in their cat’s mouth.

Tarter, bad breath, bleeding and missing teeth can be signs of dental disease.

Palen said rarely would a cat not eat due to periodontal disease. Cats don’t do a lot of chewing.

They’re carnivores. They tear and swallow.

“Little lions,” Klomp said.

Klomp said people often think it’s normal for cats to vomit, but he stressed it’s not normal. There’s something going on. “Cats aren’t out partying all night.”

The couple believe in fear-free handling of cats. They don’t scruff––subduing a cat by grabbing the loose skin around their neck­. Instead, they’ll wrap a cat in a towel.

Scruffing is manhandling and causes fear and distress. Klomp said he hasn’t scruffed a cat in ten years.

He believes in being gentle and patient.

Another advantage is there are no dogs, no barking.

“Some cats are okay with dogs, but when they’re sick they don’t want to be around dogs,” Klomp said.

Laketown Cat Hospital is located at 3605 64th St., Saugatuck. For more information call 269-455-5056 or visit www.laketowncathospital.com.

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Humane Society of West Michigan

Kent County Animal Shelter

740 Fuller NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49503

(formerly Humane Society of Kent County) 3077 Wilson Drive, Grand Rapids, MI 49534 2016

2017

DOGS 1,954 2,052 RECEIVED/ADMITTED: 39 RETURNED TO OWNER: 20 1,500 1,635 ADOPTED (Altered): 0 ADOPTED (Not Altered): 25 0 SOLD: 0 7 TRANSFERS: 19 125 SHELTER ANIMALS EUTHANIZED: 134 250 OWNER REQUESTED EUTHANIZED: 217 CATS RECEIVED/ADMITTED: 2,512 2,611 RETURNED TO OWNER: 11 13 ADOPTED (Altered): 2,016 2,166 ADOPTED (Not Altered): 1 23 SOLD: 0 0 TRANSFERS: 0 12 SHELTER ANIMALS EUTHANIZED: 0 159 OWNER REQUESTED EUTHANIZED: 1 195

2016

2017

DOGS RECEIVED/ADMITTED: 2,029 RETURNED TO OWNER: 569 ADOPTED (Altered): 573 ADOPTED (Not Altered): 6 SOLD 0 TRANSFERS: 103 SHELTER ANIMALS EUTHANIZED: 781 OWNER REQUESTED EUTHANIZED: 359

2,070 649 554 6 0 131 758 229

CATS 1,950 RECEIVED/ADMITTED: 61 RETURNED TO OWNER: 451 ADOPTED (Altered): 0 ADOPTED (Not Altered): 0 SOLD: 408 TRANSFERS: 1,109 SHELTER ANIMALS EUTHANIZED: OWNER REQUESTED EUTHANIZED: 399

1,569 29 361 0 0 551 679 247

* Owner requested euthanized animals ARE included in intake totals.

* Owner requested euthanized animals ARE NOT included in intake totals.

Harbor Humane Society (Ottawa County)

Allegan County Animal Shelter

14345 Bagley St., West Olive, MI 49460

2016

2017

730 356 354 2 0 22 61 12

1,339 226 943 0 0 28 74 49

(Managed by Wishbone Pet Rescue since April 2011) 2283 33rd St., Allegan, MI 49010 2016 2017 DOGS 595 527 RECEIVED/ADMITTED: 210 176 RETURNED TO OWNER: 304 254 ADOPTED (Altered) 3 8 ADOPTED (Not Altered): 0 0 SOLD: 18 3 TRANSFERS: 52 31 SHELTER ANIMALS EUTHANIZED: 8 24 OWNER REQUESTED EUTHANIZED:

CATS RECEIVED/ADMITTED: 1,352 RETURNED TO OWNER: 44 ADOPTED (Altered): 900 ADOPTED (Not Altered): 4 SOLD: 0 TRANSFERS: 123 SHELTER ANIMALS EUTHANIZED: 226 OWNER REQUESTED EUTHANIZED: 8

1,712 31 1,165 0 0 228 265 28

CATS RECEIVED/ADMITTED: RETURNED TO OWNER: ADOPTED (Altered): ADOPTED (Not Altered): SOLD: TRANSFERS: SHELTER ANIMALS EUTHANIZED: OWNER REQUESTED EUTHANIZED:

DOGS RECEIVED/ADMITTED: RETURNED TO OWNER: ADOPTED (Altered): ADOPTED (Not Altered): SOLD: TRANSFERED: SHELTER ANIMALS EUTHANIZED: OWNER REQUESTED EUTHANIZED:

* Owner requested euthanized animals ARE included in intake totals.

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346 8 263 2 0 16 24 8

348 6 249 20 0 0 27 10

* Owner requested euthanized animals ARE NOT included in intake totals. www.catsanddogsmagazine.com • Fall 2018

Pound Buddies Animal Shelter Muskegon County 1300 E. Keating, Muskegon, MI 49442

2016

DOGS RECEIVED/ADMITTED: 1,290 RETURNED TO OWNER: 409 ADOPTED (Altered): 192 ADOPTED (Not Altered): 293 SOLD: 0 TRANSFERS: 211 SHELTER ANIMALS EUTHANIZED: 138 OWNER REQUESTED EUTHANIZED: 6 CATS RECEIVED/ADMITTED: RETURNED TO OWNER: ADOPTED (Altered): ADOPTED (Not Altered): SOLD: TRANSFERS: SHELTER ANIMALS EUTHANIZED: OWNER REQUESTED EUTHANIZED:

2017 1,160 346 253 264 0 168 110 10

900 25 330 314 0 117 89 11

363 16 195 49 0 56 22 9

* . Owner requested euthanized animals ARE NOT included in intake totals.

DOGS RECEIVED/ADMITTED: RETURNED TO OWNER: ADOPTED (Altered): ADOPTED (Not Altered): SOLD TRANSFERS: SHELTER ANIMALS EUTHANIZED: OWNER REQUESTED EUTHANIZED: CATS RECEIVED/ADMITTED: RETURNED TO OWNER: ADOPTED (Altered): ADOPTED (Not Altered): SOLD: TRANSFERS: SHELTER ANIMALS EUTHANIZED: OWNER REQUESTED EUTHANIZED:

Consider Adoption While homeless cats and dogs are being euthanized is shelters and humane societies, please consider adoption.

Many of the dogs sold in pet stores, through classified ads and over the Internet come from puppy mills. Sometime puppy mills sell directly to consumers through websites designed to give the impression of a reputable breeder.

A puppy mill is a massive breeding operation where hundreds of dogs are kept in overcrowded and often unsanitary conditions without proper veterinary care, food, water or human interaction. Puppies born in puppy mills are often sick, poorly socialized and have hereditary and congenital defects from being bred carelessly. The parents of the puppies can live their entire lives in a cage.

If you decide to a buy a puppy directly from a breeder, don’t do so without seeing where the puppies and their parents are raised and housed. Ask questions, get references.

Please spay and neuter your pets.

Montcalm County Animal Shelter

Ionia County Animal Shelter 275 Sprague Road, Ionia, MI 48846

Every year the live-release rate from animal shelters improves, so a huge thanks to all the shelter workers, volunteers and rescue groups who help find homes for the homeless.

154 Quarterline St., Stanton, MI 4888 2015*

2017

611 184 283 0 0 80 23 38

500 238 233 0 0 9 10 10

DOGS RECEIVED/ADMITTED: RETURNED TO OWNER: ADOPTED (Altered): ADOPTED (Not Altered): SOLD TRANSFERS: SHELTER ANIMALS EUTHANIZED: OWNER REQUESTED EUTHANIZED:

331 10 255 0 0 17 43 6

CATS RECEIVED/ADMITTED: RETURNED TO OWNER: ADOPTED (Altered): ADOPTED (Not Altered): SOLD: TRANSFERS: SHELTER ANIMALS EUTHANIZED: OWNER REQUESTED EUTHANIZED:

615 10 431 0 0 33 82 33

* 2016 numbers not available

* As of August 2017, this facility does not provide owner requested euthanasia.

Fall 2018 • www.catsanddogsmagazine.com

2016

2017

340 82 161 4 0 62 14 17

636 4 340 2 0 100 171 19

* Owner requested euthanized animals ARE included in intake totals. * No numbers submitted for 2017.

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www.catsanddogsmagazine.com • Fall 2018

BestPals Animal Rescue Center The Mission of BestPals Animal Rescue Center is to provide a guaranteed adoption for companion animals and to partner with other organizations to provide a no-kill community. We welcome you to visit our wonderful pets!

13888 Blair St., Holland, MI 49424 Call/Text for an appointment: 616.212.3368 Contact: info@bestpalsrescue.org to foster or adopt www.bestpalsrescue.org - Facebook - Twitter - Instagram Bunny came to us with a sad story.

She was found as an 11-year-old stray as a TNR with ear mites and infected gums. She had some of her teeth removed but is eating just fine. Every day she is warming up to us. She is a true Cinderella story who just needs a cozy lap.

Coco and Hershey are 1-yearold brothers who came from a neglectful breeder. They will need extra patience and care in their new home together. The boys enjoy snuggling up to their large foster dog and do well around cats. Foster-to-adopt is a great option to see how these fellas do in your home.

Diamond came in with six other siblings from an overcrowded shelter in Flint. She almost lost an eye, but with medication and time she is completely healed. She’s 3 months old, spayed and ready to find her furever home. She is a real sweetheart and gets along well with other cats.

Jasmine is a 6-year-old tortie who came to BestPals because her owner was no longer able to care for her. She would prefer to be the only cat in the house. Jasmine really likes belly scratchies.

Maple and Molasses arrived with their momma back in May. They’re now 5 months old, have been neutered and are up to date on vaccines.

Would love to see these brothers get adopted together. They are very playful and really enjoy Cat Yoga.

Midnight is a 4-year-old male who had been with us previously but was brought to us as a stray through Laketown Cat Hospital. He is friendly, playful and does well with other cats.

Midnight is a laid-back cat. He accepts dogs and other cats; as long as they accept him. He doesn’t mind being picked up and loves getting lots of attention. He’ll come running for catnip and canned wet food. Once he is attached to you, he’ll come looking for you. Midnight deserves a home where his great personality will be appreciated. He would love an outdoor cattery or screened porch.

Spirit prefers a low-key home.

This 2 ½-year-old loves pets and snuggles. She has always been thin built, possible part Siamese. She’s a little shy at first but then really warms. She’s playful with toys and would be a good companion for an elderly couple.

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

Fall 2018 • www.catsanddogsmagazine.com

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Willow’s World Waking Willow

By Tricia L. McDonald “Ouch, ow. Willow no.” That is the sound of me waking up in the morning when Willow wakes up before me.

Willow is a lover in the morning and wants to cover your face with kisses. Her tongue becomes a machine as she licks and licks and licks. I appreciate her sentiment, but I’m not crazy about the delivery.

Mike, on the other hand, loves the licking attention.

In fact, Mike’s day ends with him lying in bed with both dogs licking his face ad nauseum. It makes me shudder just imagining all that dog slobber.

Don’t get me wrong, I love dog kisses—just not the crazy, maniacal, non-stop licking. I also don’t appreciate the fact that Willow finds it necessary to sit on your head or face to give those loving kisses. And that’s how she would like to start every morning.

If she wakes up and Mike is still in bed, I get a reprieve because she goes over to him. When he is already gone, I get the unwanted attention that includes stepping and pulling on my hair. Believe me, it’s not a soothing way to greet the world in the morning.

I do have to take some of the blame for this action though. When she was just a puppy, she would start her day this way. But an eight pound puppy trying to snuggle on your head was—dare I say it—almost cute or adorable.

The cuteness goes right out the door when said dog is 26 pounds and all muscle.

Sleeping Willow is a wonderful thing. She isn’t destroying anything. She isn’t barking to go out and then barking to come right back inside. She isn’t trying incessantly to get Eli to play with her (which he refuses to do, but that’s another story for another time). She isn’t chasing Millie through the house. She is in one place with an angelic look on her face and once in a while, snoring.

I relish those times during the day and try to accomplish as much as possible during. When she’s awake, she is very toddler-like in her attention span. She sees it. She wants it.

Willow’s choice of where to sleep is often very amusing. We have a small doggy bed we got when she was a puppy. It is too small for her now, but she manages to wriggle herself into that bed to sleep. It doesn’t look comfortable, but she seems to find comfort in being turned and twisted like a pretzel. When the bed is not being used for sleeping, it is dragged throughout the house. It is shaken and torn until I save it from total destruction. She is in it upside down or with the bed on top of her. As I write this, I realize it has just become another one of her toys.

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Willow’s favorite place to sleep is on my lap. Awwww.

I have to admit I love it when she is snuggled up on my lap while I’m reading or watching television. For one thing, she is still. Not so much when I’m sitting at my desk working and she insists on trying to climb onto my lap. Not so much when I’m at the dinner table and again, she wants on my lap. Or I’m on the floor trying to exercise or do yoga. I’ve heard there is yoga with dogs, but I have never found it relaxing to be on the floor with Willow. She sees it as play time or I am a bed for her to sleep on.

Even in bed, her favorite place to sleep is right up against me. I find comfort in feeling her snuggled in.

Maybe because it is how Sally and I used to sleep. At the end of the day, when we fall asleep together, I feel like my world is right because I have both Willow and Sally with me.

You can purchase Life With Sally: Little White Dog Tails, Still Spinnin’ Tails, Waggin’ More Tails and Princess Tails in Grand Haven at Must Love Dogs and The Bookman; in Grand Rapids at Schulers Books. You can order books at amazon.com. The cost is $13.95. The books are also available on Kindle and Nook for $5.99. www.catsanddogsmagazine.com • Fall 2018

Fall 2018 • www.catsanddogsmagazine.com

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www.catsanddogsmagazine.com • Fall 2018

PetCo awards grant to Pound Buddies Rescue When Lana Carson didn’t hear anything from the PetCo Foundation about a grant Pound Buddies Rescue applied for, she assumed they didn’t receive it.

But she was wrong.

A phone call from PetCo headquarters informed them they not only received the grant, but they were being given almost twice as much funding as they had asked for.

“We were awarded because of our track record,” said Carson, who volunteered at Pound Buddies for 12 years before becoming the executive director four years ago.

The grant was for $70,000. Half was allocated for 2018 and the other half for 2019.

Pound Buddies manages the Muskegon County’s animal shelter.

The grant is earmarked for life-saving initiatives including spay/neuter surgeries. “There’s no greater way to save lives than aggressive spay/neuter,” Carson said.

Carson is thankful for the area’s low-cost spay/neuter clinics: West Michigan Spay & Neuter Clinic in Fruitport and C-SNIP in Grand Rapids.

Carson said 99.9 percent of the animals brought into the shelter are not spayed/neutered. On average, owners reclaim 30 percent of the animals brought in. With the grant, staff can offer those owners free spay/neuter surgeries for their pets.

The grant can also be used to treat adoptable injured and sick animals who otherwise would be euthanized.

Recently, a dog diagnosed with heartworm was able to receive treatment. Usually heartworm is a death sentence because the shelter doesn’t have funds to treat it, Carson said.

In addition, they were able to save a beagle with an injured leg that required amputation, and a Pomeranian with a hernia.

Pound Buddies also received a $17,000 grant from the Bissell Pet Foundation for micro-chipping, spay/ neuter and vaccinations.

Carson is thankful for both grants.

“We’ll use every single penny … and need more.”

Next year Carson hopes to announce a capital campaign to build a new facility. First they need to secure a long-term contract with the county for managing the shelter. She said plans are to build on the same site with the current shelter being demolished. “The old building has to come down.”

She’s looking forward to a new building with additional space. Currently, the shelter is more than full­­– –there are nursing cats with kittens in the lobby and dogs behind the reception desk.

“It’ll be nice to have a facility where animals have space and quiet,” she said.

Fall 2018 • www.catsanddogsmagazine.com

Tyson’s Place Animal Rescue receives grant from the Grey Muzzle Organization Tyson’s Place Animal Rescue has been awarded a $1,100 grant from The Grey Muzzle Organization to help senior dogs.

The West Michigan-based rescue group is one of 66 animal welfare groups in 30 states to receive a grant.

Over the past decade, the national nonprofit Grey Muzzle Organization has provided nearly $1.5 million in grants to support its vision of “a world where no old dog dies alone and afraid.”

Jill Bannink-Albrecht, who founded Tyson’s Place in 2015, has a heart for senior cats and dogs.

“No one is more grateful or loving than an old dog,” Jill said. “You see their gratitude and love every single day.”

Tyson’s Place is a small, 501c3 non-profit organization that assists terminally ill people in finding new families for their pets. The organization helps pet owners in situations such as receiving hospice care, moving into assisted living or nursing home facilities, or after an owner has died.

“This grant will help us with senior dogs—like 9-year-old Suzie,” Jill said.

Suzie, a Chihuahua mix, came to Tyson’s Place when her 94-year-old owner died.

Suzie was overweight, and she wasn’t spayed.

Grant money paid for Suzie’s spay surgery and the removal of a mammary tumor, which was found to Jill Bannink-Albrecht, be benign. founder of Tyson’s Place Veterinary expenses for Animal Rescue, and senior dogs are costly. rescued 9-year-old Suzie.

Tyson’s Place depends on donations and grants to operate. This is the third year they’ve been helped by The Grey Muzzle Organization.

Jill said it can be hard to adopt out older pets.

“People don’t want to go through the trauma of losing them.” But just when she thinks one of the cats or dogs in her care isn’t going to get adopted, someone comes along.

Like the woman who was willing to adopt a 14-year-old cat with kidney disease.

A couple times a year they do take in animals too sick to be adopted. “They still want to be loved and be part of a family,” Jill said. Tyson’s Place has special foster families willing to take care of terminally ill pets.

For information about Tyson’s Place, to view adoptable animals, or to make a donation, visit tysonsplaceresuce.org, email tysonsplacerescue@gmail.com, or call 616-730-1122.

For information on The Grey Muzzle Organization visit www.greymuzzle.org.

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Community Resource Guide Cemeteries Clock Timeless Pets 1469 Peck St., Muskegon, MI 49441 231-722-3721 - www.clocktimelesspets.com Noah’s Pet Cemetery & Crematory 2727 Orange Ave. SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49546 616-949-1390 – noahspc@comcast.net www.noahspetcemetery.com Oak Haven Pet Crematorium & Cemetery 10950 Northland Dr., Rockford, MI 49341 www.oakhavenpc.2295 – 616-866-2295 Sleepy Hollow Pet Cemetery 2755 64th St. SW, Byron Center, MI 49315 616-538-6050 – www.sleepyhollowpc.com info@sleepyhollowpc.com

Dog Walkers Walk MI Dog Peter Bouchard, Top Dog 234 Glenview Court NE, Rockford, MI 616-953-6459 – topdog@walkmidog.com www.walkmidog.com

Humane Societies/Shelters Allegan County Animal Shelter 2293 33rd Street, Allegan, MI 49010 269-686-5112 - www.petfinder.com/shelters/MI299.html Harbor Humane Society 14345 Bagley Street (at US 31), West Olive, MI 49460 616-399-2119 - office@harborhumane.org - harborhumane.org Humane Society of West Michigan 3077 Wilson Drive NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49534 616-453-8900 - www.hswestmi.org Ionia County Animal Shelter 3853 Sparrow Drive, Ionia, MI 48846 616-527-9040 - www.petfinder.com/shelters/MI342.html Kent County Animal Shelter 740 Fuller Ave. NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49503 616-632-7300 - www.accesskent.com/kcas Montcalm County Animal Shelter 155 Quarterline St, Stanton, MI 48888 989-831-7355 - www.petfinder.com/shelters/MI669.html

Estate Planning (including pets) The West Michigan Estate Planning Center 6739 E Fulton, Suite A-10, Ada, MI 49301 www.michiganpettrust.com 616-682-5574 – info@cottrelljacobs.com

Pet Boarding/Sitters Canine Country Club In-home pet sitting and dog walking 231-755-3230 Pet Villa – Lodging, Daycare, Grooming 3934 3 Mile Road NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49534 616-735-3191 – pvpetvilla@gmail.com www.thepetvilla.com The Cat’s Meow Loving Home Care For Your Cat Jeanine Buckner, veterinary assistant - 616-481-6878

Pet In-Home Hospice Heaven at Home Pet Hospice Dr. Lauie Brush, DVM 616-498-1316 – www.pethospicevet.com

Pet Portraits Kristina VanOss Studio Pet Portraits Made Personal 616-566-2113 – inastateofre@gmail.com

Pet Training Dog Blessed LLC – Certified Dog Trainer Through CCPDT Classes in Whitehall and Shelby or private in-home training.

AKC STAR Puppy, CGC & Trick Testing, Dog Sports, Reactivity dogblessedllc@gmail.com – 616-430-0297 www.dogblessedllc.com – www.facebook.com/dogblessedllc/ Wolf Song Enterprises, LLC Animal behavior consulting, Animal training, Animal talent Wolfsongenterprises@gmail.com – 231-744-7141

Rescue Groups A Feral Haven -- Advocating for feral cats in Ottawa County www.aferalhavenmi.org – 616-399-1774 a.feral.haven.mi@gmail.com A New Start on Life – Specializing in puppy mill dogs www.anewstartonlife.com - 1-866-716-9393 Allies for Greyhounds of West Michigan, Inc. 866-929-DOGS - http://www.afgwm.org Australian Shepherd Rescue in Michigan www.arim.org Basenji Rescue and Transport (BRAT) www.basenjirescue.org - toatbasenjis@yahoo.com Basset Hound Rescue of Michigan 501 (c) (3) 616-291-1357 - www.bhrom.org Bellowood All breed canine rescue. Cedar Springs, Michigan www.bellowoodrescue.com – 616-696-2846 Bellwether Harbor P.O. Box 475, 7645 West 48th St., Fremont, MI 49412 231-924-9230 - www.bellwetherharbor.org

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www.catsanddogsmagazine.com • Fall 2018

BestPals Animal Rescue Center 13888 Blair St., Holland, MI 49424 Call for appointment, 616-212-3368 www.bestpalsarc.wix.com – bestpalsarc@gmail.com Cannonsville Critters – Helping cats in Montcalm County Michelle Hocking, 989-287-2553 Carol’s Ferals –Trap-Neuter-Return and Adoption 616-560-0555 – www.carolsferals.org Cat Tales Rescue Muskegon, 1-231-798-1033 Crash’s Landing - Cat Rescue & Placement Center No-kill, Non-profit 501(c) organization 616-821-6065 - www.crashslanding.org Faithful to Felines - Cat rescue in Muskegon County www.petfinder.com/shelters/MI75.html – misscat5@charter.net Family Paws Rescue Non-profit 501c3 – Grand Rapids 616-322-4031 – www.familypawsrescue.com Focus on Ferals - Trap-Neuter-Return 616-826-0927 - www.focusonferals.org Forever Pets – Helping Homeless Pets Find Forever Homes 231-225-1184 – www.forever-pets.petfinder.com Golden Years Alaskan Malamute Rescue Shirley Thomas, 231-766-2170 - malamute49445@yahoo.com www.goldenyearsamr.org Grand River Rover Rescue Portland, MI – 517-526-3621 – grrrescue@yahoo.com www.petfinder.com/shelters/MI706.html

Mackenzie’s Animal Sanctuary - a no-kill dog sanctuary www.mackenzies.info - 616-693-2490 Michele’s Rescue www.michelesrescue.com - info@michelesrescue.com Muskegon Humane Society - a no kill, non-profit shelter 2640 Marquette Ave., Muskegon, MI 49442 231-773-8689 - www.muskegonhumanesociety.org Noah Project - a no-kill, non-profit animal shelter 5205 Airline Road, Muskegon, MI 49444 www.noahproject.petfinder.com - 231-865-1264 Pet Tales Rescue Kentwood, MI – www.pettalesrescue.com Pound Buddies Animal Shelter & Adoption Center 1300 East Keating Ave., Muskegon, MI 231-724-6500 - www.poundbuddies.org Reuben’s Room Cat Rescue - Jeanine Buckner A no-kill, non-profit 501 (c) (3) organization 616-481-6878 - www.reubensroom.petfinder.com Safe Haven Humane Society P.O. Box 55, Ionia, MI 48846 – Fax: 517-579-5948 616-522-1611 – shhspets@hotmail.com – www.shhspets.com Saving Argo Dog Rescue 501 (c) (3) organization – 616-318-7373 www.savingargo.com – savingargorescue@gmail.com The Long Dog Retreat Dachshund Rescue 501 (c) (3) organization in SW Michigan www.thelongdogretreat.org – 757-647-5146 TLC Chow Rescue 616-738-0438 - www.tlcchowrescue.com

G.R.A.C.E. Greyhound Retirement, Adoption, Care, and Education - www.houndsofgrace.org

Vicky’s Pet Connection www.vickyspetconnection.com

Great Lakes Golden Retriever Rescue 616-336-1707 – www.greatlakesgoldens.org

Voice of Animals Rescue www.voiceofanimals.petfinder.org

Great Lakes Weimaraner Rescue www.greatlakesweimrescue.com - 1-877-SAV-A-WEIM

West Michigan Critter Haven – small animal rescue www.wmicritterhaven.org - info@wmicritterhaven.org

Headin’ Home Pet Rescue, Inc. www.headinhomerescue.org - 616-886-1474

West Michigan Ferret Connection Education - Boarding - Adoptions - Rescue Dee Gage, 616-447-2978 - wmfc2001@sbcglobal.net

Hearts of Hope Dog Rescue 616-366-8455 - rescueofhope@gmail.com www.rescueofhope.com Heaven Can Wait Animal Haven Feline adoptions – 231-737-5644 Keeper Kitties Rescue 313-400-5949 – keeperkitties@gmail.com – kkrescue.org Keeshond Rescue Central States www.petfinder.com/shelters/IL119.html – 847-922-2240 Lake Haven - Non-profit rescue for cats and dogs www.lakehavenrescue.org LuvnPupz - Rescue - Rehabilitate - Rehome www.luvnpupz.org – luvnpupz@luvnpupz.org

Fall 2018 • www.catsanddogsmagazine.com

Westie Rescue Michigan 248-879-2479 - bew1234@sbcglobal.net - www.westierescue-mi.com Wishbone Pet Rescue Alliance P.O. Box 124, Douglas, MI 49406 (800) 475-0776 - www.wishbonepetrescue.org Wild Dog Rescue 2525 Blue Star Highway, Fennville, MI 49408 wilddogonline@gmail.com - www.mosseyhollow.com

Spay/Neuter C-SNIP Dogs. Cats. Spay. Neuter.

1675 Viewpond Dr. SE, Kentwood, MI 49508 616-455-8220 www.csnip.org

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West Michigan Spay and Neuter Clinic 6130 Airline Road, Fruitport, MI 49415 www.wmspayandneuter.org – 231-366-7067

Specialty Businesses Aquarius Lawn Sprinkling 3210 Kissing Rock Ave., Lowell, MI 49331 616-897-6565 - www.aquariuslawns.com - info@quariuslawns.com Critter Cottage Adoption/outreach for Vicky’s Pet Connection 7205 Thornapple River Drive SE, Ada, MI 616-682-4855 - www.vickyspetconnection.org Happy Cat Cafe Cat Lounge & Adoption Center 447 S Division, Grand Rapids, MI 49503 616-202-4750 – happycatgr@gmail.com www.happycatgr.com.

West Michigan Critter Haven Saving lives and educating the community Parasites on Domesticated Rabbits

By Rachel Anderson Director of West Michigan Critter Haven It’s summer, and if you have furry companions that often means an increased incidence of parasites. At West Michigan Critter Haven, we’ve had both a record year of rabbits rescued from outdoor dumping situations and, consequently, an impressive variety of parasites.

Pearl: After being spotted by a sharp-eyed neighbor, sweet Rex girl Pearl was rescued from a Wyoming park.

When we examined her, we discovered she was covered in ticks – over fifty were removed from her at the vet’s office. On rabbits, ticks can cause anemia and fur loss in the affected areas. Additionally, ticks are vectors for a host of other diseases, like Lyme disease.

While rabbits do not seem to develop Lyme, humans can, so it’s important to be very careful while removing ticks from an affected animal.

Lucy: Lucy was also rescued by a Good Samaritan and found her way to us after being abandoned outside. She’s Cats and Dogs - 30

Paws With A Cause 4646 South Divison, Wayland, MI 49346 (800) 253-7297 – www.pawswithacause.org Wishbone House – Thrift shop and Pet Adoptions 165 Blue Star Highway, Douglas, MI 269-455-5247 – www.wishbonepetrescue.org

Veterinarians Laketown Cat Hospital 3604 64th Street, Saugatuck, MI 49453 (269)455-5056 mail@laketowncathospital.com www.laketowncathospital.com

Wildlife Lowell Farm and Wildlife Center 12494 Vergennes St., Lowell, MI 616-885-4223 – www.farmwildlife.org Wildlife Rehab Center 1504 Union Ave. NE, Grand Rapids 616-361-6109 – www.wildlife-rehab-center.org

a juvenile Flemish giant mix and very social.

However, we found she had an unwelcome guest in the form of a Cuterebra, commonly called a bot-fly larva.

This is a parasite that enters into the host’s body, locates itself just under the skin, and creates a breathing hole called a warble. These larvae can get quite large and infected animals can often have multiple Cuterebras. Lucy luckily only had one! Cuterebra need to be removed by a vet.

Kiki: Even the most well cared for bunnies can sometimes develop issues with a parasite. Kiki came to us as an owner surrender, but her foster mom noticed that she had flaking skin on her ears that wasn’t healing, even after being treated for mites (another common parasite). She was tested, and found to have ringworm, which despite its name, is not a worm. Ringworm is a fungal infection that is quite contagious among animals and humans and needs to be addressed with antifungal medications.

All the above buns are currently available for adoption with West Michigan Critter Haven. We have treated all their parasite issues, and all are currently in the best of health! The best way to avoid having to deal with most of these parasites is by keeping your rabbit indoors.

Please don’t dump or abandon rabbits outdoors; they often don’t have the survival skills to avoid large predators, and they are often also beset by these tiny predators as well. www.catsanddogsmagazine.com • Fall 2018

In Memory

Celebrating the Lives of Animal Friends

Maddie’s memory will live on through Maddie’s Playhouse.

We adopted Maddie in November 2008 through Harbor Humane as a foster at Camp Bow Wow. She had lots of energy! She was my inspiration to start dog walking and bringing doggies over for playtime back in September 2009. She was a great hostess with the puppies, dog rescues and even kitty fosters who have come through our door. Her energy and personality was contagious and she made many friends.

Maddie passed away July 12 of gastric lymphoma, which she was diagnosed in May after a week in the Animal Emergency Hospital and Blue Pearl. She chose to walk over the Rainbow Bridge at Maddie’s Playhouse with us by her side and our three kitties to comfort her. She is resting in her “place” between the rhododendrons in our back yard so she can watch her buddies playing when they come to visit. She will be my angel above to help me find lost dogs, be at my side when I take walks through the woods or bike on the trails, and will be the best furry friend we have ever had. We love you Maddie!

Becca and Tim Bochenek Send us your In Memory story and photo about a pet who has died. Please keep the stories under 200 words. They can be emailed to: catsanddogsmagazine@comcast.net or mailed to Cats and Dogs, P.O. Box 996, Jenison, MI 49429-996.

Fall 2018 • www.catsanddogsmagazine.com

Advice from a rescue intake coordinator

By Sallie Alberts Intake Coordinator for Reuben’s Room Cat Rescue I received a call from a man who had lost his home and was temporarily staying in a motel with his two cats. They were 3-year-old littermates, and he had them since they were kittens. He was waiting to hear from a homeless shelter as to when space would be available for him. He couldn’t take his cats to the shelter. A friend had promised to take the cats but never showed up. This man called shelters and rescues only to learn they were full. When the call came from the homeless shelter, he released his cats outside the motel. By the time I returned his call, the cats were already gone.

In the last few weeks, I have received calls from people considering dropping off their cats in rural areas when they couldn’t find a rescue to take them.

This is wrong.

These cats are inside pets and dependent on people for food, shelter, protection and love. Many are two-foot declawed, some four-foot declawed, and it would be difficult for them to defend themselves. They would have to find food, water and shelter from the heat and cold.

Some wander around looking for their home or someone who will help them. Many become feral after not having human contact thereby lessening their chance of finding a new home. They might starve to death, freeze to death, get hit by a car, or attacked by wild animals. In some rural areas, cats are shot. I received one call where a cat was found with 15 BBs in his body.

If you need to rehome your cat here are a few suggestions: Take a photo of your cat and ask your veterinarian if you can put it on their bulletin board.

When looking for a place to move to, choose a place that allows pets.

If allergies are a problem for a family member, keep your cat separated from them until you find the cat a new home.

If there is a behavioral problem, talk to your veterinarian. It may be a medical issue. If not, ask for suggestions.

When considering adding a new pet to your household make sure it will be compatible with pets you already have.

Keep checking with rescues and shelters for openings.

Ask if your pet can be placed on a wait list.

Your cat deserves the time you need to take to find him or her a forever home.

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