Cats and Dogs, a Magazine Devoted to Companion Animals

cats and DogS B

Y

A Magazine Devoted to Companion Animals

Chance needs a home Page 23

Amy Hansen and Cricket ArtPrize Therapy Cat – Page 27

Marni Hills Grooming for Good Page 11 On the Wild Side Page 25

Winter 2018 -19

FREE

CONTENTS

Animals for Adoption

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

8

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

10

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

18

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

21

Muskegon Humane Society ......................................... 23 Noah Project ........................................................................ 24

Almost Every Month Life with Willow ................................................................

4

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

5

West Michigan Critter Haven Page 14

Community Resource Guide ....................................... 12 West Michigan Critter Haven .................................. 14 Cat Corner ............................................................................

19

Furry Philosophy ............................................................... 20 On the Wild Side ................................................................ 25 Ask the Trainer ..................................................................

25

Calendar of Events .......................................................... 26 In Memory ..............................................................................

27

Features Shop and Help Animals: Hands for Paws ............

6

CATS - Cats Around Town ............................................

6

Keeping Pets & Family Together ..............................

6

Grooming for Good ....................................................... 11 Presents for Pets ................................................................ 17

In Memory: Forrest Page 27

ArtPrize Therapy Cat ....................................................... 27

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.

Winter 2018/19 • www.catsanddogsmagazine.com

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

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Willow’s World The Introduction Also Known as Mass Hysteria

By Tricia L. McDonald “It’s okay Willow,” I say to the little white dog now perched on the back of the couch. “He’s not going to hurt you.” I’m trying not to laugh because it is obvious Willow is terrified, but the whole situation is pretty ridiculous.

Ernie, the object of her fear, looks up at her from my lap with yearning. He just wants a warm, furry body to curl up with. Willow is having none of it.

Ernie is an 11-week-old French bulldog. He weighs eight pounds, a mere third of the size of Eli and Willow.

He has soulful eyes and you can’t help but melt when he looks at you. Mike and I have been melting like crazy. He can also be very sassy, especially when you’re fixing his meals. He loves to eat, sleep, poop, pee and play. He is a typical puppy.

When the opportunity to adopt Ernie presented itself, we weren’t looking for a puppy, hadn’t even considered a puppy, and were glad to be out of the puppy stage.

Needless to say, we couldn’t resist.

I move Ernie off my lap and turn to Willow, pacing on the back of the couch. I reach out and pat her head.

“It really is okay, sweetheart,” I say. She nuzzles my hand but keeps her eye on the little brown threat staring up at her. With a few more touches, she jumps down onto the couch cushion on the other side of me. Away from Ernie. My lap is the only thing separating the two. I am bent over giving her loving and whispering soft words into her ear when little Ernie crawls onto my lap. This is too close for Willow and she leaps into the air. This is unfortunate for my face and I end up with a fat lip.

“Ouch!” I jerk my head backward, Willow makes a jump for the back of the couch (again), and Ernie tumbles off my lap onto the cushion. Eli, who has been watching all of this from the chair across the room, runs over to investigate. Ernie sees a potential new playmate and noses Eli, who responds with a deep throat growl. Ernie backs up onto my lap, Willow jumps off the end of the couch, and I continue to dab at my lip to see if there is any blood.

Oh boy, I think. What were we thinking?

I give Ernie to Mike and find Willow curled into our bed pillows.

“Oh Willow,” I say as I sit kneel beside the bed.

“Come here sweetie.”

She looks at me, but doesn’t move. I reach my Cats and Dogs - 4

arms out to her and after a few more minutes of begging (mine), she crawls over to me. “It’s going to be okay,” I say. “The two of you are going to be such good playmates.” She rolls onto her back and I give her tummy rubs and lots of head kisses. I mean who can resist kissing that big ole’ head.

After several minutes, I get up and invite her to come back into the living room with me. She turns her back on me and snuggles back into the bed pillows.

“This is going to be interesting,” Mike says later as we all head to bed together.

“It will be fine,” I say out loud. Inside I’m thinking, this could be a nightmare.

I get into bed and Willow wriggles under the covers.

She curls up beside me and lets out her usual nighttime sigh. Eli lays in his usual spot above my head on my pillow. All is good. Mike hands me the tiny little fuse that holds the possibility of igniting this whole sleeping arrangement into chaos. I lay Ernie beside me, on top of the covers. I hold my breath, but nothing happens. Eli keeps an eye on Ernie, but doesn’t move from his spot. Willow is still under the covers and Ernie stretches out and closes his eyes.

I let out my breath and relax.

“Alexa, turn off the light,” Mike says. The table lamp blinks off and all hell breaks loose.

Willow tears around under the covers trying to find a way out. Her usual escape route is blocked by a tiny sleeping dog.

“Ow, ow, ow,” I say as she runs across my stomach.

“Willow!” Mike says as she bolts out from the covers and onto his head.

Ernie wakes up and backs onto the pillow. Eli growls and Ernie tumbles off the pillow.

I grab my glasses off the nightstand and get out of bed.

“Come on Willow,” I say. She jumps off Mike’s head and joins me at the door. “We’ll sleep in the guest room tonight,” I say to Mike as I close the door.

Willow follows me to the room across the hall and jumps onto the bed. Once I’m settled in with her, she curls beside me and thumps her tail against the mattress.

“You’ll soon be friends,” I whisper in her ear. I hope.

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 • Winter 2018/19

BUSINESS CARD DIRECTORY Full Service Boarding

10950 Northland Dr. Rockford, MI 49341

Oak Haven Providing all the dignity you r Forever Friend deserves

Open Seven Days a Week

616-949-1390 www.noahspetcemetery.com noahspc@comcast.net

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Shop and Help Homeless Animals For the last 8 years, a group of women from West Michigan have been using their artistic skills to help homeless animals. They have made hundreds of items and raised thousands of dollars.

Hands for Paws began in 2010 with six volunteers from Harbor Humane Society who shared a common love for animals and crafting. They started by making beds and toys for use at the shelter and soon began selling their crafts at local pet events.

Besides Harbor Humane Society, they have donated to Muskegon Humane Society, Pound Buddies, Best Pals Rescue and Carol’s Ferals.

Members donate their time and materials so 100 percent of the proceeds go directly to animal welfare. The women have a wide variety of skills and put them to work sewing, knitting, crocheting, quilting, jewelry making, paper crafting, making woodcrafts, and baking pet treats.

Everyone works independently at home making items as time and budget allows. They meet six times a year to plan for upcoming events, share ideas, swap supplies and admire one another’s latest creations.

Much of what they sell is pet-related, but they also offer people-friendly crafts such as jewelry, accessories, home décor, gift items and more.

Their crafts are sold in Holland at Harbor Humane Society’s Thrift Store on Felch Street and at the BestPals booth at Not So Shabby Antiques on West Shore Drive. They are also available through members’ Etsy shops: HappyPawsToYou, RinkyDinkTreasures, CastoffTreasures and KittiCorner.

Love cats?

Volunteer for CATS Working two jobs keeps Rita Fowler crazy busy, but she has a heart for outside cats and is looking for volunteers to help the kitties of Muskegon County. This past summer she invited members of local rescue groups to a meeting. In attendance were representatives from Heaven Can Wait, Faithful to Felines, Pound Buddies, Noah Project and the West Michigan Spay & Neuter Clinic.

“The consensus was we need a separate group for TNR,” she said.

In TNR (trap-neuter-return) outside cats, semifriendly or feral, are humanely trapped, spayed or neutered, and returned to where they were caught. They can also be vaccinated and ear-tipped. Ear-tipping, the surgical removal of the tip of the left ear, is an indication a cat has been “fixed.”

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After the meeting, Fowler started CATS––Cats About Town Society, to do TNR in Muskegon County.

One of the issues facing groups who do TNR is what to do with the friendly cats and young kittens who are trapped. Fowler said that problem was solved when local rescues agreed to take the adoptable animals, if they have the space.

She also started looking for people with barns who would take displaced cats who, for whatever reasons, couldn’t be returned to where they were caught.

To get CATS started, Fowler began looked for volunteers willing to trap and transport cats.

“We don’t have enough trappers,” she said. “Everyone knows we have to do it. I just can’t find the people.”

Volunteers need to be able to drive and lift at least 20 pounds. “The work requires patience but is very rewarding,” she said.

The Fruitport-based West Michigan Spay & Neuter Clinic won’t be able to handle the number of cats Fowler would like to see trapped. Therefore, transport to C-SNIP, a low-cost spay/neuter clinic in Grand Rapids will be necessary.

Fowler said training will be provided for volunteers.

For more information or to volunteer call Rita Fowler at 616-844-5567.

Keeping Pets & Family Together Local Pet Food Pantry Needs Space to Rent Pleasant Hearts Pet Food Pantry is a volunteer and donation-based 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that works to keep pets with their families.

Pleasant Hearts was founded December 2016 by a small group of individuals who volunteered at local animal shelters. During their time volunteering they saw many pets surrendered because the owners felt they could not care for them financially. These pet owners were devastated, and they could tell the animals were well loved and cared for.

In an effort to decrease this as a reason for pets in shelters, the pantry was born. Now the pantry is a non-profit with a board and a group of like-minded volunteers. Their goal is to make sure these pets never see the shelter life.

The group is also working on partnering with other local animal welfare organizations to offer discounts for client’s pets for vaccines and spay/neuter.

The pantry services the West Michigan area. They have outgrown their startup facility and are looking for space to rent in Grand Rapids. They need about 500 square feet. If you have an available space for rent please contact them at pleasantheartsgr@gmail.com.

For more information about Pleasant Hearts Pet Food Pantry visit www.pleasantheartspetfoodpantry.org. www.catsanddogsmagazine.com • Winter 2018/19

Come visit Mr. Butler at Santa Fe Trading Co.

325 Butler, Saugatuck, Michigan www.santafetradingco.com – 269-857-1359 Open Year Round Winter 2018/19 • www.catsanddogsmagazine.com

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This page paid for by Hands for Paws!

Hands For Paws is a group of volunteers who make items such as pet beds, cat hammocks and toys for use at animal shelters. They also sell crafts at Harbor Humane Society’s Thrift Store, Not So Shabby Antiques, and at various adoption events, fundraisers and pet-related businesses. Members donate their time and materials so that 100% of sales proceeds go directly to animal welfare.

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www.catsanddogsmagazine.com • Winter 2018/19

Grooming for Good International Volunteer Dog Groomers

By Marni Hills What if you had everything you needed to live-- food, water, safety and even some dog friends to live with... but you silently suffered with constant pain. Your hair is matted to your skin in hard clumps of hair¸ feces and dirt that pull your delicate skin. Your nails are overgrown and twisting your feet. Your body hurts with every step¸ so all you can do is lie motionless in a corner. It’s unlikely anyone will adopt you because you stink, you look terrible and you have lost the will to express your natural dog joy.

But then one day, a kind foreigner puts a leash around your neck, walks you to a table and gently lifts you up. She turns on a buzzing instrument and begins to move it along your body. You feel something different.

Something wonderful. Something you haven’t felt for months…or is it years now? Freedom from pain. The air and sun on your skin. “This is wonderful!!” you thought.

All the layers of matted hair¸ feces¸ urine and mud were carefully¸ safely¸ being removed from your tortured body. Each of your feet is lifted and this human deftly clips off the nails that were causing pain with each step.

A smile begins to form on your face. “Who is this person relieving my ages-long suffering?” You look back to glance at her face…..

Marni Hills grooming a homeless dog in Guatemala.

These are the volunteers of Groom For Good, a small army of professional dog groomers. To the untrained eye it is not obvious that for certain dogs¸ every movement pulls their delicate skin because their hair is matted into large clumps, or that to stand or walk with overgrown nails means their toes twist and distort, causing chronic pain.

A lot of people think of dog grooming as a luxury- primped Poodles and fluffy Bichons getting fancy breed cuts at salons. But if a dog is born with hair that Winter 2018/19 • www.catsanddogsmagazine.com

Raisin feeling good after being groomed.

continually grows and she is not brushed or trimmed¸ that hair will soon tangle into hard painful mats.

Mats hurt. They can become so tight that movement is restricted and each step pulls painfully at tender underarms¸ sanitary areas¸ around necks and delicate ears¸ even in the pads of their feet. Eventually the only way to relieve their pain is to shave off their coats right down to the skin. It takes a certain skill set to do this safely and quickly.

If you’ve ever traveled in a developing country you’ve seen it—an overpopulation of street dogs is common and they are seen as pests to be shooed away¸ poisoned or shot. They will never know the love of a family. They will die being hit by cars, succumbing to easily treatable diseases or ingesting garbage with toxins and plastics that encircle the intestines. Death will be painful and heartbreaking.

However there are pockets of hope around the world-caring rescuers who know what needs to be done for animals --but don’t have the resources to make it happen.

They’ve gotten as far as taking in and healing, feeding and maintaining hundreds of animals¸ but often don’t have the resources to do all that is needed for their comfort.

Can you help us defray the travel costs for our volunteers in 2019 and beyond? Groom for Good is sending ten professional groomers to Animal Aware Guatemala for two weeks in January 2019. We will not only provide hands-on immediate relief to over 375 dogs (and 90 cats)¸ but we will educate and train the shelter staff about brushing and bathing regularly. We will share some simple grooming techniques for cutting mats and trimming nails. Follow us on Facebook to see photos and videos of the experience. You can also help by sharing our posts of dogs that need to be adopted. Maybe you will want to adopt one yourself? Animal Aware can help with all the paperwork and sends dogs to the US and Canada all the time. We also need volunteers¸ ‘likes’ and followers/subscribers on our Facebook page and website.

Thank you for helping in any way you can.

Marni Hills is a writer, world traveler¸ NDGAA-registered groomer and Certified Pet Aesthetician. She is currently grooming at Harmony Pet Clinic in the Greater Milwaukee area. Her pet family includes two rescues; Rune, a 16 ½year-old Amstaff mix and Lily, a 6-year-old yellow lab. She can be reached at groomforgood@gmail.com¸ on the website groomforgood.org and on Facebook @groomforgood.

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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 - 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 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

Pet Boarding/Sitters

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 Training 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 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 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

Canine Country Club In-home pet sitting and dog walking 231-755-3230

Carol’s Ferals –Trap-Neuter-Return and Adoption 616-560-0555 – www.carolsferals.org

Holiday Pet Resort & Salon, Boarding, Grooming, Day Care 10950 Northland Dr., Rockford, MI 49341 www.holidaypetresort.net – (616) 866-2294 – 800-776-8498

Cat Tales Rescue Muskegon, 1-231-798-1033

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Crash’s Landing - Cat Rescue & Placement Center No-kill, Non-profit 501(c) organization 616-821-6065 - www.crashslanding.org

Pet Tales Rescue Kentwood, MI – www.pettalesrescue.com

Faithful to Felines - Cat rescue in Muskegon County www.petfinder.com/shelters/MI75.html – misscat5@charter.net

Pound Buddies Animal Shelter & Adoption Center 1300 East Keating Ave., Muskegon, MI 231-724-6500 - www.poundbuddies.org

Family Paws Rescue Non-profit 501c3 – Grand Rapids 616-322-4031 – www.familypawsrescue.com

Reuben’s Room Cat Rescue - Jeanine Buckner A no-kill, non-profit 501 (c) (3) organization 616-481-6878 - www.reubensroom.petfinder.com

Focus on Ferals - Trap-Neuter-Return 616-826-0927 - www.focusonferals.org

Safe Haven Humane Society P.O. Box 55, Ionia, MI 48846 – Fax: 517-579-5948 616-522-1611 – shhspets@hotmail.com – www.shhspets.com

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

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 Vicky’s Pet Connection www.vickyspetconnection.com

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

Voice of Animals Rescue www.voiceofanimals.petfinder.org

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

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

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

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

Headin’ Home Pet Rescue, Inc. www.headinhomerescue.org - 616-886-1474 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 Mackenzie’s Animal Sanctuary - a no-kill dog sanctuary www.mackenzies.info - 616-693-2490

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

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 Continued on page 14

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Specialty Businesses Critter Cottage - Adoption/outreach for Vicky’s Pet Connection 7205 Thornapple River Drive SE, Ada, MI 616-682-4855 - www.vickyspetconnection.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 Understanding and Treating E. Cuniculi in Rabbits

Submitted by West Michigan Critter Haven Infection from the protozoa Encephalitozoon cuniculi is widely prevalent within domestic rabbit populations. Many exotic veterinarians speculate that most rabbits have been exposed to E. Cuniculi at some point in their lives whether from vertical transmission between mother to baby via placenta or from ingesting spores shed within the infected urine of another animal.

While a large percentage of rabbits that have a titer drawn will show levels indicating past exposure, not all rabbits will succumb to the symptoms caused by an active infection. E. Cuniculi seems to strike by coming out of latency when the rabbit’s immune system is suppressed due to another factor.

Signs of E. Cuniculi As a rabbit caregiver, several symptoms one might first notice in an infected rabbit are neurological. A rabbit might tilt their head slightly or show a sudden subtle incoordination of limb movement.

Rabbits are experts at hiding illness and injury and they need an attentive caregiver to recognize a slight change in gait or stance from normal. These symptoms may progress to eye nystagmus, uncontrolled body rolling or limb paralysis.

Beyond the neurological system, E. cuniculi can also commonly affect the kidneys, eyes and other organs.

It is vital that a rabbit showing symptoms of illness be brought immediately for evaluation by a rabbit-savvy veterinarian.

Diagnosis & Medications Your veterinarian will likely draw an E. cuniculi titer as a diagnostic tool to aid in determining whether the Cats and Dogs - 14

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

symptoms observed are from an active infection or from a different cause. Commonly, an antiprotozoal medication prescription will be given (Panacur or Oxibendazole are two options). Other medications that may be prescribed are an antibiotic (such as Baytril), a pain reliever (such as Metacam) and possibly a pet safe version of Antivert if the rabbit is experiencing severe dizziness and rolling.

Supportive Care Other supportive measures for your rabbit should include syringe feeding Oxbow Critical Care formula several times a day to rabbits that are unable to eat properly on their own and ensuring hydration. Rabbits that have lost coordination are often unable to use a water bottle effectively. Providing an easy to reach crock of water and wet fresh greens multiple times each day will help maintain hydration. Your vet can assess for dehydration and administer subcutaneous (under the skin) fluids as needed.

Depending on the severity of your rabbit’s symptoms, you will need to make adjustments for their particular disability. Rabbits may have a difficult time maneuvering into a standard litter box. Low sided litter boxes may be helpful or puppy urine pads can be used. A rabbit that is unable to coordinate limb movement and has become relatively or completely immobile will need an attentive and considerate caregiver to maintain a clean and safe living area. Rabbits may have fur loss and skin breakdown from urine scald if the rabbit is hindered in hind end movement. Using a thick layer of very absorbent bedding (such as Carefresh) which is spot cleaned several times a day, using a rabbit safe shampoo to spot wash dirty areas that your rabbit is unable to clean on him or herself and applying a skin protectant (such as Destin) to wet areas will help maintain quality of life and health.

Recovery & Beyond Rabbit symptoms related to E. Cuniculi infection are wide ranging from mild to severe and need to be supported according to the individual rabbit’s need.

Many rabbits make a complete recovery and go on to live long, healthy lives with very little (if any) residual issues.

Your vet will work closely with you to determine the best care plan for your rabbit. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and take good notes at your rabbit’s exam. Together, you and your vet will make decisions to provide your rabbit the best quality of life possible and support during an E. Cuniculi infection. www.catsanddogsmagazine.com • Winter 2018/19

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

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Cat Corner

Call for an Appointment

The Three Little Kittens…`

231-366-7067

By Michele Dunckel I’ve accomplished my first rescue here in Ireland!

I was visiting a friend several towns over and just missed hitting three 6-week-old kittens as they scampered across the driveway and into a partially collapsed, filthy shed. Though these little guys “belonged” to the people into whose shed they retreated, the kittens were feral. I also saw both feline parents who were feral as well. They stayed near the shed because the owners would feed them – chicken bones and potato peelings, Not only was their diet not doing them any favors, there were several large dogs in the area that posed a serious threat. The kittens probably wouldn’t have made it to adulthood. I knocked on the door of the people who lived there to ask if I could have their kittens. They didn’t hesitate to say sure. They helped me catch the frightened babies and had no interest in why I wanted them. I would like to have captured the parents as well since they will continue to reproduce, but I didn’t have a trap and knew the owners wouldn’t have been in agreement.

Since bringing these cuties home, my friends and I have worked diligently to tame them and have been to the vet for their first shots. They’ve been wormed and fed a nutritional diet and are growing like weeds! Gabby, Amelia and Oscar are a delightful, and Gabby and Oscar now meet me at the door when I come home. I won’t be adopting them out since I’ve fallen in love with them. My two older cats are less than happy, but adjusting. Food and litter boxes are in separate areas of the house, and I know eventually they’ll get along fine.

It saddens me that the Irish have so little regard for animals in general and cats in particular. I could have been grabbing these kittens to torture or worse. If both parents make it through the winter, I’m sure there will be more kittens next spring and fall. I’ll keep an eye out and hope to get them to one of the rescue organizations for adoption.

If you see a sign that says “free kittens” or see little ones running wild, do your best to trap them or call the local rescue agency to remove them to a safe, healthy environment and a chance for a loving home.

The Holidays are bearing down on us all. Don’t forget your local animal rescue agency by donating time, money and a little something to let them know you appreciate their time and effort for their selfless service placing wonderful cats and kittens in warm, loving homes.

Happy Holidays from Ireland!

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.

Winter 2018/19• 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 - 19

I asked Wade if he had a message for our youth, our future leaders. He replied, “You can achieve your dream.” As a child he was happily strapped on a dog sled by his uncle. “As a kid I dreamed of being a dog musher.

I was able to achieve my goal by keeping focused on that.

Ashley has the same kind of perseverance.”

If you know me, I am an animal lover like no other, but have occasionally been asked how can I support the Iditarod and find it so inspiring. I personally see

By Jodi Jarvis -Therrian only people who care about their dogs and run their What you do makes a difference, and you have to decide lives around the dogs not vice versa. I see courage.

They inspire me! There are going to be bad seeds in what kind of difference you want to make. Jane Goodall every group that give others a bad name. I have cringed watching people at obedience trials show cruelty. I find A fitting quote from an inspirational hero of mine for the most part, if you spend your whole life competing to start a piece that includes two other inspirational people I admire; Ashley Perry and Iditarod Musher Wade in a sport with your dog you most likely enjoy it. When Marrs. I recently had the privilege of speaking once again I asked Wade this question, he had a reply that was well said. “You can’t push a rope. with Ashley and her amazing, They have to want to do what supportive, sweet mother Kim they are doing. I do it because I Perry. I was also fortunate to have love to spend time with my dogs, the incredible opportunity to speak the sport is just a bonus.” to Wade Marrs on the phone.

Wade helps support Ashley.

About a year and a half ago, She calls him her brother. He I wrote about the courageous talks about how much she 14-year-old young lady, Ashley inspires him and he helps her Perry, from Anchorage, Alaska. on spreading the word and Read more about Ashley here being a spokesman for Turner’s : https://furryphilosophy.

Syndrome Awareness. He has blogspot.com/2017/06/a-truehad a meet-and-greet, and hero-making-difference.html. provides rides at his kennel for Ashley is a bright ray of others who have the Syndrome. sunshine who inspires my heart. I He supports Ashley and would named a shelter reading program hope that you spread the word at Muskegon Humane Society Wade Marrs and Ashley Perry about her reading program and after her because she is the perfect photo credit Kim Perry Turner’s Syndrome Awareness. role model. Ashley has Turner’s To find out more about hosting a reading program please Syndrome, and every three weeks has to go into the contact Perry_Kimberly@ASDK12.org. Locally contact hospital for a day to receive IVIG infusions that have side me at cani7lupus@aol.com. affects that resemble chemo. That doesn’t stop Ashley, Ashley is helping Wade get the word out about his no, not one bit! She has accomplished much and given tours. http://stumpjumpinkennel.com/tours/where he back more than most adults. gets to do what he loves best, “spend time with his dogs In the past year and a half, Ashley has supported many charities. She has expanded the reading program to in the woods.”

20 plus shelters all over the WORLD, including Australia and Canada. She also emailed flyers to schools in the Memory Stones by Jodi area to get the word out.

Honoring the memories of your loved ones in a beauReading to dogs in shelters allows children to spend tiful way.

Fur or ashes can be permanently fused in a time with the dogs in a loving, innocent non-judging stone that can be made into a sun catcher, keychain manner. This helps a scared or anti-social dog become or jewelry. more adoptable and less likely to be returned. There is a video from this reading program where a shelter had high-energy and barking dogs, and as the child sat and read, the dogs all quieted and settled down like magic.

It seems that inspiration is also magical. If you read my link above, you’ll learn about Ashley’s friendship with Iditarod Musher Wade Marrs and how they inspire each www.memorystonesbyjodi.com other to push harder into greatness.

231-893-1227

Furry

Philosophy

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www.catsanddogsmagazine.com • Winter 2018/19

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

Winter 2018/19 • www.catsanddogsmagazine.com

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www.catsanddogsmagazine.com • Winter 2018/19

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 Hi, I’m Celene! I’m a playful and active young girl looking for an active home. I get along well with other dogs, but I do need a home without animals (cats, small dogs, etc) or small children! Please contact my friends at the shelter for more information about me!

Hi, I’m Oliver! I’m a sweet 2-year-old Chihuahua mix looking for my forever home. I’d prefer to be spoiled as the only dog. I’m new here at the shelter and the staff is still getting to know me. See the front desk with any questions.

Hi world, it’s me Scout! I’m a playful 2-year-old boy ready to find my “fur”ever home and settle in for new curiosities and discoveries. I’m super friendly and think it would be “paw”some if my brother Snowball and I could take this next journey in our lives together. We’d be the total package. Snowball would give you the mellow lap-cat companion while I could be the one you toss jingle toys to. We are both loveable and have great “purr”sonalities...and really, cats are best in pairs. :) Snowball is a handsome lynx point Siamese who is eager to fill the position of Resident Lap Cat in your house. He is a quieter fella who pre”fur”s the simple things in life...cozy beds, tasty treats and a special someone to dote on him. He is mild mannered–don’t worry about crazy antics, especially at night. Snowball knows the value of sleep!

Meet Chance, an 8-year-old gent who is living up to his name in his quest to find a second chance at life. Chance was left at our doorstep, moments before a hailstorm. His only protection from the painful ice pellets was a meager cardboard box. Sweet Chance sat politely in his box patiently waiting. Despite being 4-paw declawed, neutered, and microchipped, it was apparent Chance had been left on his own for some time...his weary frame was ravenous for food. Chance has never lost his sweetness nor his kind soul.

This page paid for by Clock Timeless Pets!

Hi, 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 little girl. I LOVE to play with my toys and prance around the yard with them, it’s the cutest thing ever. I get along great with people, but have not yet met any dogs or other animals here. I would benefit from basic manners training, which comes free with my adoption. I’d love a big yard to run and play in. If you have questions, contact my friends at the shelter.

Winter 2018/19 • www.catsanddogsmagazine.com

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www.catsanddogsmagazine.com • Winter 2018/19

On the Wild Side with Allyson Swanson Imagine a bird who’s 32 inches tall, has two-inch long talons and a wingspan measuring six to seven feet. Magnificent in the sky but intimidating up close.

Particularly when you’re equipped with nothing but a towel and pair of gloves. That was my first meeting with a bald eagle. “Sparta” as we called him, didn’t disappoint.

The call came in on 9/11 of an injured bald eagle in a field in Sparta, Michigan unable to fly. As a center, we are not equipped for large raptors, but with no other center in the area licensed for birds and with it being a national holiday, we felt the need to step in. We made three separate attempts to find Sparta and with a little luck and some help from locals, we were able to catch him.

A quick evaluation made it obvious what his issue was. His right wing was covered in maggots, more severe than I had ever seen before. The original cause is still unknown, however, with no time to waste he was rushed back to WRC where two other volunteers came to help clean up his wing.

Once Sparta was stabilized we made calls to our local DNR officers and the Fish and Wildlife Service to make sure we followed all regulations. Regulations state that to take in a large predatory bird like Sparta, we would need to have a 100-foot flight enclosure, however, we were given special permission to keep him until he was considered well enough to travel before transferring him to another rehab center.

We had Sparta for the better part of three weeks.

During that time we did daily treatments on his wing, medications multiple times a day, diagnostics at our vet and so much more. It was an amazing experience to be so close to such a powerful bird and to see him go from depressed and subdued to strong and spirited. Sparta is now with our friends at Wings of Wonder in Empire, Michigan, but we do hope he continues to improve and one day we may be able to release him back to his home here in West Michigan. This animal is one that will stay with me for my entire rehab career.

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 fifteen 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

Winter 2018/19 • www.catsanddogsmagazine.com

Ask the Trainer How do I get my dog to come when I call him?

Your dog needs a reason to come to you. Dogs repeat behaviors that get them things they want, so you need to build a history of reinforcement for coming to you.

Use a consistent word to call him so he learns that word means going to the person results in something he likes. This word is called a cue. It cues them to do that behavior. Frequently the cue “come” is used to mean “Come to me.”

Teach your dog if he comes to you when he hears this cue, reinforcements happen. A reinforcement can be anything the dog wants. Treats, toys, release to play more, and being petted are common reinforcements, but the key is what your specific dog wants.

Start in a low distraction environment. When your dog is already coming to you, say come and give him a treat or other reinforcement. After you do this a number of times, start doing it when he is doing something else.

Say come in a low distraction environment and reward him when he comes to you. Slowly increase distractions and distance and keep cuing and reinforcing him when he comes to you. If he doesn’t come the first time you give the cue, go get his attention being fun and happy. Back up to engage his chase response and reward him for coming to you.

A dog thinks of things he doesn’t like as punishment and will not do things that result in something he does not like. Try to never punish your dog when he comes to you so that you build that reinforcement history and your dog wants to come to you when you call him!

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 sciencebased 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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Calendar Pet Adoptions, Fund-raisers, Special Events Adoption Events

Fund-raisers and Special Events

Thursdays – 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)

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.

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/.

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.

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.

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/.

Dec. 2 & 16, Jan. 6 & 20, Feb. 3 & 17 – 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.

Dec. 1 – Noon to 4 p.m. Holiday Open House at the Allegan County Animal Shelter and the Wishbone House in Douglas. Photos with Santa, Reduced-fee adoption event, raffle, bake sale, pet-related gifts, bring a gift - pet food or kitty litter for the food pantry. For more details see ad on page 7.

Dec. 1 – 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Bellwether Harbor Holiday Open House - Something for everyone.

Unique gift items for your pets —The pet boutique has holiday treats and supplies to purchase for your fur baby so no one is forgotten on Santa’s list.

Pet pictures with Santa — Get that perfect holiday greeting card photo with your pet or other family. Photos taken by Treasured Images. Spruce up Fluffy and Fido for a wonderful holiday keepsake.

Microchip Clinic— Get your pet microchipped for $12.25!

Gourmet Bake Sale — Delicious goodies for you and your pets. Great for holiday parties or as gifts!

Raffles— There will be a dog themed basket and a cat themed basket to win.

Bellwether Harbor’s Wishing Tree — Make one of our dogs or cats happy with a special toy or treat just for them until they get their forever home.

Something for the person with everything — We have calendars and mugs for the dog or cat lover. Give the gift of sponsoring one of the Bellwether animals.

Dec. 9, Jan. 13, Feb. 10 – 1 p.m. Crash’s Landing Volunteer Tour, 1545 Diamond NE, Grand Rapids. RSVP to volunteers@ crashslanding.org.

Need to reach more customers, clients or volunteers?

Consider advertising in Cats and Dogs.

An easy way to reach more than 11,000 people who care about pets. e-mail: catsanddogsmagazine@comcast.net or call: 616-777-0645 Cats and Dogs - 26

www.catsanddogsmagazine.com • Winter 2018/19

ArtPrize Therapy Cat For four years, Amy Hansen and her cat, Cricket, have been going into nursing homes and hospitals to visit patients in need of a little cheer. “Cricket enjoys visiting people so much that if we don’t get out for a couple weeks, he gets a bit depressed,” Amy said.

Cricket has been a registered therapy pet with Love On A Leash since 2014. Based in California, Love on a Leash provides certification for pet therapy teams. Amy is the founder and leader of the Western Michigan chapter of the non-profit organization.

When they make their visits, Amy said people often don’t think Cricket is real. “They are amazed a cat can be a therapy pet,” she said. “Staff loves him too. Even people who are generally not cat people can’t help but smile when they see Cricket.” When staff sees how calm and loving Cricket is they realize how good he is for patients.

Making someone’s day a little brighter also makes Amy happy. “It’s very much a win-win for everyone involved.”

To help spread the word that cats can be therapy pets, a portrait of Cricket cuddled on a lap was entered in ArtPrize. It was displayed at Spectrum Health Butterworth Hospital.

The painting came about when Amy met Larry Lathrop, the art teacher and basketball coach of a Chinese exchange student she hosted. Amy was working on a children’s coffee table book about Cricket. Besides photographs, she wanted to use paintings in the book.

Larry, who lives in Belding, painted “Healing Paws” in 2017. “We decided to enter it in ArtPrize to raise awareness of the benefits of therapy pets,” Amy said.

Therapy pets can help reduce blood pressure, improve overall cardiovascular health and release

Above: Cricket enjoying lap time with a patient.

Left: Amy Hansen with “Healing Paws” by Larry Lathrop. The painting was entered in ArtPrize as a way to bring awareness of cats as therapy pets.

endorphins for a calming effect.

Because of ArtPrize, Amy said several newspapers and magazines picked up Cricket’s story. Plus, numerous people have inquired about how to certify their cats as therapy pets.

The painting will soon be on display at Spectrum Health United Memorial campus in Greenville.

To learn more about therapy pets go to http://www. loveonaleash.org. You can also contact Amy Hansen at riversmyhome@gmail.com or 616-754-2565.

In Memory Celebrating the Lives of Animal Friends I write this tonight with a very heavy heart. I had to help my foster kitty cross The Rainbow Bridge today.

He was a special boy to me. A little over a year ago, he was brought out of the Wolf Lake Gameland area by horseback by a wonderful lady who rescued him. She played her radio when riding so animals knew she was near and wouldn’t spook her horse.

She saw a cat eating wild mushrooms to stay alive. She caught him and brought him to me. Shortly after he arrived he started having seizures. The grand maul ones.

You would not like to see those. It broke my heart. We got him on seizure meds, which worked for a while, but then his health started to decline. He walked like he had been drinking, staggering and bumping into things, disoriented, and not consistently using the litter box. Wednesday I took him to the vet. He was limp, could not walk and had stopped eating and drinking.

The vet and I decided to give him the benefit of the doubt, as he called it, and try a couple of different things. Well, in two days he was not better, so the best thing was to help him cross. His quality of life was gone and there was nothing more that could be humanely done. So tonight I am grieving for Forrest. But I know I will see him again, all healed and happy. Tina Nicholes Winter 2018/19 • www.catsanddogsmagazine.com

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