Cats & Dogs Magazine

cats and DOGS

A Magazine Devoted to Companion Animals

Magic needs a home – Page 6

Ribbon cutting at Harbor Humane Society’s new Bissell Community and Training Center – Page 19

Angus gets a new home – Page 13

Spring 2018

Bob Fischer and Lily The Robert H Fisher 5th Annual Pasta 4 Paws raises close to $20,000 – Page 12

FREE

If you rescue cats and would like to host a “Crazy Cat Lady Party” to raise funds for your organization, contact Janet Vormittag at 616-777-0645 or email her at geocat01@ comcast.net for details.

Fun, educational and will help answer the question, “Am I a Crazy Cat Lady?”

CONTENTS Animals for Adoption Muskegon Humane Society .........................................

5

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

6

Noah Project ........................................................................ 11 Reuben’s Room Cat Rescue ............................................

14

Safe Haven Humane Society .......................................

17

Almost Every Month Business Card Directory .............................................. 10 On the Wild Side ................................................................ 15 Calendar of Events .......................................................... 16

Sarah Rapisarda with Axle in a real-life room at the new Bissell Community and Training Center at Harbor Humane Society.

Page 19

Furry Philosophy ............................................................... 18 Life with Willow ................................................................ 20 Community Resource Guide ....................................... 21 West Michigan Critter Haven .................................. 23

Features Carol’s Ferals: Sandy Pines refuses TNR ..............

9

Pasta 4 Paws raises close to $20,000 ......................... 12 Update on Angus ................................................................. 13 Harbor Humane Society opens new center ...... 19 Life with WIllow – Page 20

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. They are distributed throughout Kent, Ottawa, Muskegon and surrounding counties.

We are not responsible for services and products advertised.

March 2018 • www.catsanddogsmagazine.com

Your feedback and ideas for articles are welcome.

All rights reserved. No part of this magazine may be reproduced without permission from the publisher.

Publisher: Janet Vormittag Owner: JLV Enterprises LLC Home delivery of Cats and Dogs is $24 per year. Make your check payable to Cats and Dogs and mail to: Cats and Dogs, P.O. Box 996, Jenison, MI 49429-0996 For advertising information: 616-777-0645 or catsanddogsmagazine@comcast.net.

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Survey What do you regularly read or look at?

From the Editor

____ Ads ____ Letter from the Editor ____ Animals available for adoption ____ On the Wild Side ____ Cat Corner ____ Furry Philosophy ____ Life with Willow ____ Community Resource Guide ____ Calendar of Events ____ Our Readers Write ____ West Michigan Critter Haven ____ Monthly Features

Janet Vormittag

Cats and Dogs, a Magazine Devoted to Companion Animals has been my life for the past 12 years.

Publishing Cats and Dogs allowed me to combine my passions for animals and writing. However, as social media and e-news gain dominance, I wonder if a print magazine is still needed.

In addition, my passions are shifting. I’d like more time to advocate for cats and other animals through my writing and speaking.

I’ve loved meeting other people who have a passion for animals. It’s been a privilege to interview and write some of their stories. I’ve also enjoyed getting to know a few of the volunteers who are the backbone of the many rescues in west Michigan.

I was considering ceasing the publishing of Cats and Dogs, but after talking to several friends I decided to change from publishing monthly to publishing every quarter.

Instead of this being the April issue, it is the Spring edition.

The revenue that makes this publication possible is produced through advertising. Due to an unexpected death last spring, Cats and Dogs lost its anchor advertiser. Since then the magazine has not been selfsustaining. Therefore, an increase in revenue is needed, and I’ll be working on that.

I’m considering some other changes too. Before I implement any of them, I’m interested in what you think.

I’m open to suggestions and feedback.

I would be grateful if you would please fill out the adjoining survey.

Would like to see any of these brought back? ____ In Memory ____ Ask the Vet ____ Ask the Trainer ____ Have you ever adopted a pet who was featured in Cats and Dogs?

If so, tell me about it:

____ Have you ever done business with one of the advertisers you saw in Cats and Dogs?

If so, who?

____ D0 you ever read Cats and Dogs online?

____ Are you interested in advertising or

contributing to help support Cats and Dogs?

If so, include your contact information:

Any suggestions or comments?

Thank you, Janet PS If you’re attending the Pet Expo stop by the Cats and Dogs booth for a chat.

2018 West Michigan Pet Expo at the DeltaPlex 2500 Turner Ave. NW, Walker

Saturday, April 7, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Sunday, April 8, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

You can e-mail your thoughts to: catsanddogsmagazine@comcast.net Or you can mail this survey to: Cats and Dogs P.O. Box 996 Jenison, MI 49429 Or you can got to www.catsanddogsmagazine.com and do an online survery.

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www.catsanddogsmagazine.com • Spring 2018

This page paid for by Clock Timeless Pets!

Spring2018 • www.catsanddogsmagazine.com

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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: bestpalsarc@gmail.com to foster or adopt www.bestpalsarc.wix.com/bestpals - Facebook - Twitter - Instagram Magic is an adorable 12-year-old male Poodle whose owner passed away.

He was matted, in rough shape and needed dental surgery to remove several teeth. He now has a clean bill of health, a good appetite and just needs some love! Magic enjoys fetch, cuddles and furry friends. *Adoption fee covered by Holland Doctors of Audiology* Photo by Larissa Antaya

Ellie (bottom) and Billy (top) were surrendered because their owner could no longer care for them because of housing. They are both around two years old, female and male. They are available to be adopted separately.

Both are affectionate. Billy loves yoga and being held.

Ellie is a bit more shy and would do better in a home with older children.

Trillium and her son Pepe have been waiting since last July to find a home together. Trillium is affectionate and loving but doesn’t like other cats or dogs, except Pepe. Pepe is now 7 months old. He was born blind and he never lets that stop him. He is fun loving, feisty and playful.

BestPals Rescue is celebrating 5 years of saving lives with a Fundraiser Party at Boatwerks Restaurant June 8, Friday at 6 p.m. Live music, silent auction and appetizers. www.bestpalsarc.wix.com/bestpals (see page 7)

Ivy and Suzy came from Calhoun County shelter due to overcrowding back in July. They are a bonded sister pair.

Both are still a bit shy, but enjoy being petted, will need time to adjust to a new home. They are in a foster home and doing well.

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Yoga with BestPals kitties April 14 and 28, Saturdays at 11 a.m. $10 suggested donation. Bring a yoga mat. Limited space so please RSVP at bestpalsarc@gmail.com or 616) 212-3368. Held at BestPal’s Event Building - 6674 Blair Lane Holland, MI 49424. www.catsanddogsmagazine.com • Spring 2018

Spring 2018 • www.catsanddogsmagazine.com

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Cats and Dogs - 8

www.catsanddogsmagazine.com • Spring 2018

Sandy Pines Refuses TNR. Opts for Trap/Eradicate (aka Ferals Killed)

By Carol Manos, Carol’s Ferals (March 16, 2018)

It’s been a bit since I last wrote about Sandy Pines. A great deal has happened since I last posted and all of it spells out a certain death for feral cats that wander onto the grounds of Sandy Pines.

After meeting with Gene, the President of Sandy Pines, Mel, their Head of Security and the Josh, the Social Media Director, I was feeling very good about a partnership between the park and Carol’s Ferals. We quickly got a team together that would be willing to put food out daily and pick it up at dusk. We were in the process of working with Mel, when just before the necropsy results were published, he quit. You can only imagine why. I won’t speculate for you. You all have common sense.

The necropsy came back stating that the cat obviously had no major health issues beyond intestinal parasites (that I can assure you having worked with over 11,000 community cats is normal and not at all lethal in adult felines). After showing the necropsy report to area vets, it was pretty clear that the cat did indeed freeze to death in that trap that was baited and placed by Sandy Pines. I can’t blame the head of security for heading for the door.

Carol’s Ferals discussed a TNR Program at length and handed their proposal over to Sandy Pines during the meeting. But despite being willing to foot the bill for spay/neuter and handling every aspect of the TNR program, Sandy Pines opted for the inhumane method of trap/eradicate.

While this is far better from past methods of setting traps negligently and allowing animals to freeze to death, it is still an ultimate death sentence for feral cats and basically any cat that is stressed by being trapped and taken to an open admission facility such as Allegan County Animal Shelter. While this shelter is being managed by Wishbone Animal Rescue, a very good organization that I feel is competent and doing a good job, it is still not within the scope of the sheltering system to handle true feral cats. Feral cats (cats unsocialized to humans) are killed in shelters all over the country. There is no place for them and misguided people contribute to the daily deaths of these cats by not utilizing the common sense, humane TNR model.

Of course this has me shaking my head in both disgust and sadness. An offer to manage a parcel of land the size of Sandy Pines with no cost to the management is pretty much unheard of and despite that offer, it seems the powers that be would much rather just do as they do and trap cats and anything else that goes into a trap and Spring 2018 • www.catsanddogsmagazine.com

remove it. They say it is all for the safety of the members.

I wonder why members would want to travel to their summer cottage and not expect to see any wildlife. I think they should just cut down all the trees, pave it and make it the trailer park they want. Fence it in. Build a wall.

Whatever.

We at Carol’s Ferals have been advocating for the humane methods of feline overpopulation for 12 years.

We worked with Jandy’s Home in the early days to institute a TNR program in the park. It was working until just last fall when the management decided to pull a switcheroo on the good members working hard to manage the cats. Experienced TNR folks knew how to keep fixed ferals in place which resulted in them fending off newcomers as sterilized cats do not want to share their food source. When they forced Judy, a long time member to stop feeding cats and began their eradication, that’s when all the problems started. This was not discussed with the members of Sandy Pines. This was a blanket policy put into place by Gene the president who hired a new team of security to do things as HE wanted.

Basically the management spent more time hassling the good people by imposing steep fines for even talking back to a member of security than they did listening to them. And the result was grave for at least one cat that we know of. I probably don’t have to spell this out for you. But how many other cats and animals do you think suffered a similar fate? We’ll never know. Nobody is going to wave that flag around. But I can tell you this, when I suggested that the traps be removed from the park and how it would be a good PR move to snap a picture of Sandy Pines loading their traps into our Carol’s Ferals vehicle, President Gene countered with, “Let’s load them in, take the picture, and you give them back to us.” I really should have known at that very moment that I’d be asked to play dirty pool. But I’m an optimist. I hoped I got through. I failed.

My warning to the members of Sandy Pines is this. If you own a cat, do not let it outside of your dwelling while visiting the park this summer. The way these folks set what are supposed to be humane live traps is not at all as intended. And should your friendly cat be so stressed in a trap after a few days and get carted off to an open admission shelter that is already overloaded with stray cats, it may very well present as a feral and if that’s the case, goodnight Fluffy.

I wish I could be showing you all pictures of the feeding stations being placed strategically. I wish I could be telling you about all the people who have come forth to feed and care for these cats. I wish they never messed with what Amy Pietras and I started at Sandy Pines and what Judy and Doug continued to do for over a decade.

But I can’t. All I can do is warn members of Sandy Pines that this is no longer your park. You have no say. You will obey.

To learn more or for updates visit carolsferals.org or like Carol’s Ferals on Facebook.

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616-446-7013 – familypetlodge@yahoo.com

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

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Free Meet and Greet

fuzzbucketspetsitting.com Cats and Dogs - 10

www.catsanddogsmagazine.com • Spring 2018

Spring 2018 • www.catsanddogsmagazine.com

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Pasta 4 Paws raises close to $20,000 for Pound Buddies Rescue

By Janet Vormittag “It’s beyond words,” said Pound Buddies Executive Director Lana Carson.

What left Carson almost speechless was the donation of $19,395­­––the largest donation the non-profit has ever received.

The money was raised at the Robert H Fischer 5th Annual Pasta 4 Paws. Lana and Bob Fischer started the event in honor of Lily, a Chihuahua mix they adopted from Muskegon Humane Society.

Pasta for Paws was held at the Mona Lake Boating Club in March. The first year $6,000 was raised and donated to MHS where Bob Fischer served on the Board of Directors.

Bob Fischer died last year and the fundraiser was renamed in memory of him. The organizers of the event, Lana Fischer, Linda Norden and Kathy Wysozan, also decided to switch the benefactor to Pound Buddies.

“They’re open admission, meaning they don’t turn any animals way. Their need is much greater,” Norden explained.

Pound Buddies manages the Muskegon County animal shelter. At any given time, there are 100 or more dogs at the shelter. They also take in cats. Staff and volunteers focus on caring for the animals, getting them spayed/neutered and finding them homes. The work doesn’t leave much time for fundraising.

Carson said 99 percent of the animals admitted to the shelter are not spayed/neutered. They work hard to be no-kill, meaning they don’t euthanize adoptable animals.

For the last three years they have achieved that status, but she knows it could change at any moment if intake increases beyond available adopters.

Carson said they continually strive to educate the public about the importance of spaying and neutering their pets to help combat pet over population.

“It’s the community who needs to become no-kill,” she said.

Shelters like Muskegon Humane Society and Noah Project are limited admission, which means when they get full they no longer accept animals.

Carson said she was excited when she learned Pound Buddies would benefit from this year’s Pasta 4 Paws. She was floored when she heard how much was raised.

Besides the donation, Carson was taken back by the love and compassion from the woman, the staff at Mona Lake Boating Club and the community.

“It means so much. The money is tremendous, but the community support is remarkable.”

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Top: The Pasta 4 Paws Committee, L to R Jan Piasecki, Linda Norden, Lana Fischer, donating the check to Pound Buddies Treasurer Connie Karry and Executive Director Lana Carson. (not pictured Committee member Kathy Wysozan) Left: Lily visiting Bob Fischer in the hospital.

Pasta 4 Paws included a pasta dinner, a silent auction, a raffle, door prizes and a band that played until midnight.

Norden said 175 businesses donated services or products for the auction and raffle. Several individuals gave monetary donations. Mona Lake Boating Club donated their facility and staff volunteered time to work the kitchen. Fischer paid for any food that wasn’t donated.

“It was a community effort on behalf of the animals,” Norden said. Their goal this year was to raise $15,000.

Last year they raised $12,000.

“I couldn’t be more happy,” Norden said of the final tally.

“We were shocked,” Fischer said. They popped a bottle of champagne to celebrate.

Fischer said making Pound Buddies the beneficiary of the fundraiser seemed appropriate since Lily was found as a stray and originally brought to the county shelter. The homeless dog was transferred to Muskegon Humane Society. Even though Lily was diagnosed with a severe heart murmur, the couple fell in love with her and decided to adopt. Lily eventually had surgery at Purdue University Veterinary Teaching Hospital.

Fischer brought Lily to visit her husband while he was hospitalized. Their last visit was the morning of the day he passed. “He was so excited to see her.” www.catsanddogsmagazine.com • Spring 2018

Angus has left the building

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 collection of short stories that is a humorous memoir about living with cats.

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

5.0 out of 5 stars (from Amazon) Thank you Janet

By Amy L. Johnson I’m not a “Crazy Cat Lady.” I have always considered myself a dog-person. Nothing against cats, I love them.

I have been the guardian of two cats. One I inherited, and the other was a rescue. The tendency to shy away from cats was simply because of the allergies in my family. This book, You Might Be a Crazy Cat Lady If . . . was a delight to read. The quotes, the humor, the toil, the heartbreak, the journeys, and the photos all wrapped around Janet’s actual experience made it an adventure. Janet let me into her world and educated me on the concept of a “catio.” Basically, it is a patio for cats. Who knew? I am looking forward to Janet’s next book, as she continues to do what she does best: rescue, love, and write. Thank you Janet, you are truly something special.

Last month we had a story about a cat named Angus who was rescued by Faithful to Felines in Muskegon.

Angus was diagnosed with entropion, a medical condition in which the eyelid folds inward and causes the eyelashes to continuously rub against the cornea causing irritation. Surgery corrected the condition.

He was also diagnosed with Feline Immunodeficiency Virus. FIV used to be a death sentence for cats, but as more is learned about the virus, cats once euthanized are given the chance to live a normal life.

Sheila Hyde followed Angus’ story on Faithful’s Facebook page and decided to adopt him. She updates Faithful to Felines on his progress.

Hyde said Angus has made himself at home and follows her all over the house. “We are going to be a great team.” Angus even has his own window and cat tree.

“This adoption really energized all our volunteers,” said Marcia Carlson Lipps from Faithful to Felines.

Lipps added that Angus is a poster child for rescues working together. Angus was neutered when Heaven Can Wait helped trap and fix a colony of cats. He couldn’t be released where he was originally caught so they found him a new home in a barn. Angus disappeared from the barn but eventually was found and brought into Pound Buddies Rescue. They transferred him to Faithful to Felines. Lucky for him, Faithful to Felines has a room dedicated to FIV cats.

Sheila last shared that when she came home from work she was nervous because Angus didn’t meet her at the door. She found him snoozing on the recliner.

$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

Or stop by the Cats and Dogs booth at the 2018 West Michigan Pet Expo at the DeltaPlex 2500 Turner Ave. NW, Walker Saturday, April 7, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Sunday, April 8, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Spring 2018 • www.catsanddogsmagazine.com

Top Left: Angus as he looked when he first came to Faithful to Felines. Top right: Angus on his cat tree in his new home. Above: Angus in his new home.

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

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www.catsanddogsmagazine.com • Spring 2018

On the Wild Side

Call for an Appointment

with Allyson Swanson It’s that time again! Baby Season! The Wildlife Rehab Center has officially received their first babies of the season in the form of five baby fox squirrels who arrived Wednesday, March 14. These poor orphans lost their home and their mother when their home was destroyed by a tree removal company. These orphans will be in our care for the next several months until they are ready for release back in the wild. Behind the scenes there is a lot of time, money and sleepless nights involved in getting these sweet babies to that amazing moment of release.

To start, these babies will need feedings every four hours around the clock, cage cleanings, laundry and a month or so down the road, weaning and outdoor enclosure upkeep. Take into account that this scenario is only for five baby squirrels and now imagine 10 or 20 squirrels.

Now add in 50 baby song birds, 80 baby ducks and 70 baby opossums and you have a glimpse of what an average day is like during the peak of summer.

How is it possible? Volunteers! Without our volunteers, none of it would be possible. Our volunteers put in the time getting their hands dirty to make sure each and every animal has the environment and diet it needs to thrive. Even more essential to us and these animals are our sub-permittees. Sub-permittees are specially trained individuals who are then licensed under one of our Rehabilitators so that they may take babies home for foster care. This task, though highly rewarding, is also highly involved. These extra-amazing and selfless people give up their free time to tend to these helpless orphans. As more animals make their way into our care, we find ourselves in need of more fosters. If you have a passion for wildlife and a flexible schedule, we want you!

Sub-permittee applications can be requested by emailing us at volunteer@wildlife-rehab-center.org Just as crucial to helping these babies grow up are the funds! Want to help? Consider coming to our First Annual Baby Shower Fundraiser! On Saturday April 14 from noon to 3 p.m. we will be hosting a party to benefit our babies. Come to Creston brewery with a donation from our baby registry at Amazon.com or Target (in store or online) and play animal themed games to win prizes.

Brunch and beverages will be available for purchase.

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 4 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 animals. allyson@wildlife-rehab-center.org – 616-606-5805.

Spring 2018 • www.catsanddogsmagazine.com

231-366-7067

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 -15

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.

Saturdays – 9 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Barry County Animal Shelter Cat Adoptions at ACE Hardware, 111 E Main St., Hastings.

Sundays – Noon to 2 p.m. and Thursdays – 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. or by appointment, 826-0927. Cat and kitten adoptions at Focus on Ferals, 7962 Clyde Park, Byron Center.

April 7 – 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Pound Buddies Rescue Adoption Event at Chow Hound, 628 N Beacon Blvd., Grand Haven.

April 7 – Noon to 2 p.m. Luvnpupz dog adoption event at Pet Supplies Plus, 6159 Kalamazoo Ave., Grand Rapids.

April 7 – 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. Harbor Humane Society Adoption Event at Petco, 3424 W Shore Dr., Holland.

April 7, 14, 21, 28 – Noon to 2 p.m. Hearts of Hope Dog Rescue Meet & Greet at PetSmart, 4645 Canal Ave. SW, Grandville.

April 7 & 21 – 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Humane Society and Animal Rescue of Muskegon County Adoption Event at PetSmart, 1720 E. Sherman Blvd., Muskegon.

April 7 & 21 – Noon to 3 p.m. Lake Haven Rescue Adoption Days with available dogs at Pet Supplies Plus, 4920 Wilson Ave. SW, Grandville. www.lakehavenrescue.org.

April 8 & 22 – 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Pound Buddies Rescue Adoption Event at PetCo, 5239 Harvey St., Muskegon.

April 14 – 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Harbor Humane Society Adoption Event at Chow Hound, 660 Chicago Dr., Holland.

April 14 – 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.

April 14 – 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Pound Buddies Rescue Adoptions at Tractor Supply Co, 6435 Airline Hwy, Fruitport.

April 14 & 21 – 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Unleashed Love cat and dog adoption event at Pet Supplies Plus, 6159 Kalamazoo Ave., Grand Rapids.

April 15 – 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Pound Buddies Rescue Adoption Event at Pet Supplies Plus, 2500 E Beltline SE, Grand Rapids.

April 15 – 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.

April 21 – 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Pound Buddies Rescue Adoption Event at Tractor Supply Co, 1550 Whitehall Rd, North Muskegon.

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April 21 – Noon to 3 p.m. Harbor Humane Society Adoption Event at Chow Hound, 628 N Beacon Blvd., Grand Haven.

April 28 – 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Pound Buddies Rescue Adoption Event at Agard’s, 150 Ottawa St, Muskegon.

April 29 – 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Pound Buddies Rescue Adoption Event at Tractor Supply Co, 6435 Airline Hwy, Fruitport.

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.

Thursdays – 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) training session at Carol’s Ferals and Friendlies, 4600 Knapp NE, Grand Rapids. (Brooknelle Pet Resort). Check web site for details: carolsferals.org.

April 2-4 – Kids that Care Camp: Spring Break at Harbor Humane Society. 616-399-2119 - www.harborhumane.org April 7 & 8 – West Michigan Pet Expo at the DeltaPlex, 2500 Turner Ave., Walker. Saturday 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Sunday 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Stop at the Cats and Dogs Magazine booth and meet authors Janet Vormittag and Tricia McDonald.

April 8 – 1 p.m. Crash’s Landing Volunteer Tour, 1545 Diamond NE, Grand Rapids. RSVP to volunteers@crashslanding. org.

April 14 – 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Microchip Clinic at Bellwether Harbor, 7645 West 48th St., Fremont. The $30 fee includes registration. Tell family and friends with pets to have them microchipped! 231-924-9230 or www.bellwetherharbor.org.

April 14 & 18 – 11 a.m. Yoga with BestPals kitties, $10 suggested donation. Bring your own yoga mat. Space is limited so RSVP at bestpalsarc@gmail.com or 616-212-3368. Held at BestPals’ special event building; 6674 Blair Lane, Holland.

April 21 – Noon to 4 p.m. Palace Pets at Harbor Humane Society, 14345 Bagley St., West Olive. Join us for a fun afternoon of Princesses and Pets. There will be six characters, professional photographers and adoption fee discounts. Free, but we ask you bring an item from our donation list on our website or Facebook page. www.harborhumane.org.

June 2 – 14th Annual Run Forrest Run benefiting Bellwether Harbor. This is a timed 5K run on the Trails of Branstrom Park or a 1 Mile Fun Walk. Involve the whole family, even the 4-legged members! Register at www.bellwetherharbor.org or www.runsignup.com/Race/MI/Fremont/RunForrestRun. June 8 – 6 p.m. Save the date. BestPals Rescue is celebrating 5 years of saving lives with a Fundraiser Party at Boatwerks Restaurant. Live music, silent auction and appetizers. www. bestpalsarc.wix.com/bestpals (See ad on page 7.)

June 20 – 9 a.m. to Noon. Pets Pals for kids 8-14 years old. It’s a Hands on Humane Education Program where kids will learn shelter/home animal health care, dog/cat grooming techniques, dog training, agility and animal safety along with snack time.

Cost is $25. RSVP, limit is 20 students. 231-924-9230 or email: contactus@bellwetherharbor.org.

www.catsanddogsmagazine.com • Spring 2018

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

Spring 2018 • www.catsanddogsmagazine.com

Cats and Dogs - 17

what they were bred to do. They sometimes find naughty, destructive ways to release the energy that was bred into them. They want to be active, they need to run and do what they were institutionally meant to do. Watch a dog in front of sled and tell me you can’t see them smiling and howling with glee.

If anyone in the race is abusing this privilege, shame on him or her. I believe anyone who abuses the precious life of any animal should be punished, but let us not

By Jodi Jarvis -Therrian punish all for the deed of one.

I have followed this sport for some time now. The “Most important is that you are out there with your 12, more I know about these mushers, from interviews and 16, 20 best friends—the dogs.” ~Susan Butcher friends that have been to the kennels, the more I know the majority of these people love their dogs as family.

My friend Kim Perry, who was at the Opening They enjoy the time spent with their dogs, being one with Ceremonies of Iditarod 2018 with her family supporting nature and their best friends.

Wade Marrs and other friends, surprised me with a live So many mushers use their platforms to get their video chat. I am so thankful. It was so message of well-deserved causes out in exciting to feel like I was actually there, the community. the energy was amazing.

Wade Marrs, an ethical, admirable A Little Iditarod History: musher, has gone above and beyond In 1925, a daring sled dog relay to help his friend Ashley Perry, who through Alaska in the middle of winter is affected by this syndrome, share delivered life-saving medicine to the the message of Turner’s Syndrome citizens in Nome. Children were dying awareness. Ashley Perry is a true hero in from diphtheria. The Iditarod Sled Dog every sense of the word. Find out more Race is to commemorate this event. about Ashley and her Shelter Reading Joe Redington organized the longprogram go to : http://furryphilosophy. distance Iditarod Race. He wanted to blogspot.com/2017/06/a-true-herosave the sled dog culture and Alaskan Wade Marrs and Ashley Perry making-difference.html huskies, which were being phased out Who will win this year’s Iditarod? At at the Iditarod. of existence due to the introduction of the time of this article, is yet to be seen. In Photo credit: Kim Perry snowmobiles in Alaska. He also wanted my eyes, everyone who treats their dogs to ensure the preservation of the historical Iditarod Trail. with love and respect are winners.

It seems politics and various people who are against To help support Wade Marrs and bring awareness the Iditarod are tarnishing what this race was intended to Turner’s Syndrome you can go to: to be. I believe this year’s race, more than any other, Joe http://stumpjumpinkennel.com/support-sjk/.

Reddington’s mission for this event and Susan Butcher’s To help support the Iditarod and keep the dream quote, “you are out there with your best friends,” needs to alive and see footage, go to http://iditarod.com/ be celebrated and held close at heart. subscriptions/.

I have been to a dog obedience trial and witnessed Read more Iditarod articles and other Furry first hand a woman scruff and scold a dog. She called Philosophy’s messages at furryphilosphy.blogspot.com. it stupid, covered its cage as punishment when the dog Memory Stones by Jodi missed a sit in a competition ring. This, is my eyes, is cruel. My partner from Dog Blessed LLC and I have shirts Honoring the memories of your loved ones that say, “Happiness does not come from points and Qs in a beautiful way. (qualifying runs), but from playing the game with the dog Fur or ashes can be permanently fused in a stone that you love.” can be made into a sun catcher, keychain or jewelry.

We need to enjoy the adventure, not just keep our eye on the prize.

In every sport and everything in life, there are going to be cruel, unethical people. It is a sad fact. However, I believe you should not persecute the obedience trials, but the individual who makes poor judgment, just as you shouldn’t persecute a pen for writing evil words.

These dogs in the Iditarod were bred to run. They www.memorystonesbyjodi.com enjoy it. They live for it. Humans created these breeds. In 231-893-1227 working with dogs, I see huskies who are not able to do

Furry

Philosophy

Cats and Dogs - 18

www.catsanddogsmagazine.com • Spring 2018

Harbor Humane Society opens new community/training center

By Janet Vormittag When Axle first entered the new Bissell Community and Training Center, he was terrified. The two-yearold pit bull, available for adoption at Harbor Humane Society, was hesitant to follow directions from Sarah Rapisarda, the behavior manager at the Ottawa County animal shelter. Axle also shied away from two animal control officers who wanted to give him attention.

Jennifer Self-Aulgur, the executive director at Harbor, said Axle was one of those dogs who hated being in a kennel. He cowered and barked when people stopped to look at him.

“People aren’t going to adopt a dog like that---they have to meet the dog outside the cage environment,” she said. The Center, which opened in February, will provide that safe space.

Harbor Humane Society, 14345 Bagley St., West Olive, serves more than 2,200 pets each year.

The Center is a separate building but within feet of the shelter. It has a large multi-purpose room, a small kitchen and a bathroom. There are also two real-life rooms where staff and volunteers can bring a dog or cat who needs time away from the shelter. Each room has a couch, chairs, and a small table. There are pillows on the couch and art on the wall.

Jane and Todd Urbanski sponsored one of the rooms and dedicated it to their cat Remi who was adopted from Harbor.

“We think he (Remi) represents the strength, resilience and unbridled spirit that so many of the animals coming through Harbor’s doors share,” said Jane Urbanski, who has been a volunteer at the shelter since 2002 and now serves on the Board of Directors.

One of the primary uses for the Center will be for training dogs, including puppy happy hour where puppies socialize with humans and other puppies.

Rapisarda said the peak socialization time for a puppy, 6 to 12 weeks of age, is short and important.

Learning to be comfortable around people and other animals is essential if a dog is to be part of a family and society.

“A well-mannered dog is a social dog,” she said.

Because there aren’t many unplanned litters of puppies in West Michigan, Harbor has been transporting puppies from a shelter in Tennessee. They usually arrive having spent their entire life in a cage with minimum human contact.

Self-Aulgur said the southern states are a couple decades behind when it comes to spaying and neutering Spring 2018 • www.catsanddogsmagazine.com

Ribbon cutting for the Bissell Community and Training Center at Harbor Humane Society in Ottawa County.

cats and dogs. Until they get the pet population under control, shelters around Michigan and beyond are taking some of the surplus animals.

“We bring in a variety of breeds, giving more options for families who adopt,” she said.

The Center will also be used for workshops, educational camps for children, and fundraising events such as cat yoga and painting with pets. In addition, it’s available for rent for events such as birthday parties–– select shelter animals will attend, if invited.

Last May the Board of Directors at Harbor Humane Society started a capital campaign to raise $350,000.

They’re more than three-quarters of the way to their goal.

The Center was phase one of their plan. Phase two includes many minor repairs, an update of the heating/ cooling system, and renovation of the laundry area.

Currently the laundry room is right outside the surgical suite, which isn’t ideal. The plan is to add on a small room for laundry and turn the current laundry area into a pre-surgical room.

“For a long time we’ve band-aided things. We’re trying to have a long-term vision,” Self-Aulgur said.

Last year Harbor started offering spay/neuter surgeries for pet owners and performed 895 surgeries for other shelters and rescues. The surgical team also performed 222 surgeries for low-income pet owners.

Vaccines, microchips and testing for heartworm, feline leukemia and other common diseases are also offered.

With patience and treats Rapisarda coaxed Axle through agility obstacles. His confidence grew with each kind word. He soon welcomed attention from the officers.

Two hours after entering the Center, Axle was zooming around the room with exuberance. Being relaxed and self-assured will increase Axle’s chance of finding his forever home.

“It (the center) will save lives. Dogs deteriorate in the shelter,” Self-Aulgur said.

If you are interested in spay/neuter surgery for your pet, contact Harbor at sheltermanager@harborhumane. org or call 616-399-2119. Learn more about Harbor at www.harborhumane.org.

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Life with Willow Time to Meet Willow

By Tricia L. McDonald Willow’s personality is very different from Sally’s.

Willow is always on “full-speed.” Sally was more on “medium-speed.”

For example, Mike has a large tractor and Sally would not go near it. Even if it was off, she was not going near the scary thing. A few weeks after we got Willow, we were all outside when Mike started the tractor. Not only was Willow not afraid of it, she ran toward the giant noisemaker. When Mike shut it off, she tried to climb on it with him. Her fear factor is very low, where Sally’s was pretty high.

Willow’s energy level is always over the top, too. Sally would have bursts of energy, but she was more on an even keel most of the time. For Willow, it is go go go!

There is good and bad to Willow’s high energy and lack of fear, but one area where it should be to our advantage are public appearances. At least that’s my hope.

Sally’s first big appearance was at PetExpo. We didn’t want to overwhelm her by having her there all day, so we decided on a three hour time period.

We put a notice in the Cats & Dogs Magazine that Sally would be at the PetExpo from 11:00am to 1:00pm. About fifteen minutes before11:00, I noticed people congregating by our booth.

Janet (Vormittag) and I couldn’t figure it out until we heard someone mention Sally’s name. Apparently this little white dog had fans.

Mike was driving Miss Sally to her appearance so I called and explained the situation to him.

“What?” he said.

“I know! Who would have thought that people would be so excited to meet our little Sal?” That was an exciting day for everyone—except Sally.

She wasn’t crazy about all the voices, the smells from other dogs, and everyone wanting to reach out and touch her. It was exhausting and she slept all the way home.

Now it is little Willow’s turn to do a PetExpo meetand-greet. If it is anything like how she greets people at our home, she will exhaust everyone she comes in contact with. My friend Gloria came over the other day and of course Willow was jumping on her while I was repeating my mantra of “Willow down, Willow off, Willow down.”

She ignored me, as usual. Gloria sat down on the stool to take off her shoes and Willow got onto the chair behind her. From there it didn’t take long before Willow was Cats and Dogs - 20

standing on Gloria’s back so she could lick her ear. That’s right, I said standing on her back. Gloria and I were laughing so hard I forgot about my mantra.

Unlike Sally, I anticipate Willow will be excited about all the voices, the smells from other dogs, and everyone wanting to touch her. Bringing a kennel to PetExpo was to give Sally a break from people. For Willow, it will be to give people a break from her. I have no doubt I will be the one ready for sleep by the end of the day.

I am excited for everyone to meet Willow as she and I had a rough beginning. I was looking for a mini-Sally and Willow was Willow. Adopting a puppy—even the same breed as Sally—did not lessen my grief. I’m ashamed to admit I found it hard to love Willow. I even suggested to Mike that we give her back (he said “no”). She was cute and adorable, but she wasn’t Sally and that is what I really wanted. My heart needed my girl back and it wasn’t fair to Willow.

We persevered through puppy biting with little razor blade teeth, and countless potty trips outside that were successful, and paper towel cleanups for the unsuccessful times. We went to puppy training where she did much better than I expected. We took winter walks with her new friend Teva and I laughed at the way she hopped through the snow like a bunny.

I still didn’t feel that real Sally love though, until I realized it was because she wasn’t Sally. She was Willow and she had her own things to love and experience. It was time to stop comparing her to Sally because she was always going to lose.

There would never be another Sally and that was okay. Sally and I had something so special and Willow and I would have something special too, but it would be different. Because she wasn’t Sally, she was Willow. This realization helped me open my carefully guarded heart and let her in. Now Willow and I are having a full-blown love affair.

So please, if you get a chance, come meet little Willow. There may be Tricia tears because Sally will be there in my memories, but there will also be lots of laughter while I work on my Willow-wrangling!!

Willow will be at the PetExpo on Saturday, April 7th and Sunday, April 8th, from 12:00pm to 2:00pm.

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 splatteredinkpress. com or amazon.com. The cost is $13.95. The books

www.catsanddogsmagazine.com • Spring 2018

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

Family Pet Lodge Cageless cat and dog boarding, near the G.R. Ford Airport www.familypetlodge.com 616-446-7013 – familypetlodge@yahoo.com Fuzz Buckets Pet Sitting In-home pet sitting, dog walking and training Serving the Greater Grand Rapids area 616-334-8438 – fuzzbucketspetsitting@gmail.com www.fuzzbucketspetsitting.com

Oak Haven Pet Crematorium & Cemetery 10950 Northland Dr., Rockford, MI 49341 www.oakhavenpc.2295 – 616-866-2295

Pet Villa – Lodging, Daycare, Grooming 3934 3 Mile Road NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49534 616-735-3191 – pvpetvilla@gmail.com www.thepetvilla.com

Sleepy Hollow Pet Cemetery 2755 64th St. SW, Byron Center, MI 49315 616-538-6050 – www.sleepyhollowpc.com info@sleepyhollowpc.com

The Cat’s Meow Loving Home Care For Your Cat Jeanine Buckner, veterinary assistant - 616-481-6878

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 - www.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

Pet In-Home Hospice Heaven at Home Pet Hospice Dr. Lauie Brush, DVM 616-498-1316 – www.pethospicevet.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 1657 S. Getty, Suite 28, Muskegon, MI 49442 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

Kent County Animal Shelter 740 Fuller Ave. NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49503 616-632-7300 - www.accesskent.com/kcas

Allies for Greyhounds of West Michigan, Inc. 866-929-DOGS - http://www.afgwm.org

Montcalm County Animal Shelter 155 Quarterline St, Stanton, MI 48888 989-831-7355 - www.petfinder.com/shelters/MI669.html

Australian Shepherd Rescue in Michigan www.arim.org

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

Spring 2018 • www.catsanddogsmagazine.com

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

Continued on page 22

Cats and Dogs - 21

Continued from page 21

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

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

Grand River Rover Rescue Portland, MI – 517-526-3621 – grrrescue@yahoo.com www.petfinder.com/shelters/MI706.html

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

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

www.catsanddogsmagazine.com • Spring 2018

Specialty Businesses Critter Cottage - Adoption/outreach for Vicky’s Pet Connection 7205 Thornapple River Drive SE, Ada, MI 616-682-4855 - www.vickyspetconnection.org

Wildlife Wildlife Rehab Center 1504 Union Ave. NE, Grand Rapids 616-361-6109 – www.wildlife-rehab-center.org

Wishbone House – Thrift shop and Pet Adoptions 165 Blue Star Highway, Douglas, MI 269-455-5247 – www.wishbonepetrescue.org

West Michigan Critter Haven Saving lives and educating the community

Why your pet rabbit should be spayed

By Rachel Anderson, President of West Michigan Critter Haven Have you ever heard the phrase “breed like rabbits?”

Rabbits have a well-earned reputation for fertility. A rabbit’s gestation period is only 31 days, and rabbits can become pregnant again almost immediately after they give birth. Litter sizes can be from 1-12 kits, with an average of 4-6. Therefore, if a female rabbit has six litters in a year, she can have upwards of 36 babies – most likely more.

Rabbits reach sexual maturity at 3-4 months (males) or 5-6 months (females). That means our mother bunny above could easily become a grandmother by mid-year.

If half her babies are female, and they go on to have average-sized litters, a single rabbit pair at the beginning of a year easily could turn into over 300 rabbits by the end of the year. That’s a lot of rabbits.

This is why it is extremely important, if you’re a rabbit pet owner, to spay or neuter your pet bunnies.

Male rabbits can be neutered as soon as they reach sexual maturity and their testicles descend, at about 3-4 months of age. Female rabbits can also be spayed at sexual maturity; most vets like to wait until the rabbit is at least 6 months old, however. Both are procedures that any rabbit-savvy vet should be able to perform safely.

Other Benefits of Spaying or Neutering Rabbits While the most important benefit of spaying and neutering your pet rabbit will be preventing having hundreds of bunnies to care for, there are quite a few other benefits for both you and your rabbit friend!

Longer life: Altered rabbits live, on average, much longer than unaltered rabbits. In female rabbits, especially, spaying almost eliminates the risk of reproductive cancers (ovarian, uterine, mammarian).

According to studies, an unspayed female rabbit is has an 80% chance of contracting a reproductive cancer by Spring 2018 • www.catsanddogsmagazine.com

Mikey and Stella are a happily bonded pair of spayed/neutered rabbits currently available for adoption.

the age of 6. A neutered male rabbit also will have an eliminated risk of testicular cancer – and will also be less susceptible to injuries that he might sustain in fights with other animals due to sexual aggression.

Behavior: One of the major reasons rescues like the West Michigan Critter Haven hear when people give up their rabbits is “they got really aggressive.” When bunnies hit sexual maturity, they start exhibiting several normal behaviors that can be difficult to live with.

Unneutered male rabbits will often spray their urine to mark territory, and both male and female rabbits are much easier to litter train after they have been spayed or neutered. Also, altered rabbits are usually calmer and more loving once their hormonal desires to mate calm down after spaying or neutering. They usually exhibit far less destructive behaviors (chewing, digging) or aggressive behaviors (biting, lunging, circling, growling) after surgery.

Companionship: People often think that if their bunny is the only pet in the family, of if he or she has a companion of the same sex that altering is an unnecessary expense. While this may prevent unwanted pregnancies, keeping a bunny on their own may be denying them a full, rich life. Domestic rabbits are social animals, and appreciate living with a friend of their own species. Rabbits who are spayed or neutered are much calmer and more open to companions, and altering rabbits can allow pet owners to have a male/female pair without the possibility of an unexpected pregnancy (or 3 or 4!) Even rabbits of the same sex are easier to bond after spaying or neutering, since a lot of aggression between rabbits is related to hormone levels that are significantly reduced after alteration.

Visit wmicritterhaven.org and under “Care Info” to find a rabbit-savvy vet near you.

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