2014 March Franklin Living

March 2014 Vol. 4 Issue No. 2

Learning to be a responsible pet owner Russellville woman makes custom clothes for pets

Terrace Manor Nursing & Rehabilitation Center, Inc. Dedicated to Hope, Healing and Recovery

• Short-term rehab • Long-term care • Physical therapy • Occupational therapy • Speech therapy Quality Care from a staff who respects your health care needs.

Offering: Activities and enjoyable social programs.

Large private rooms for short term care.

Medicare or private insurance may cover these stays.

Phillip & Sherene Wade

390 Underwood Rd. • Russellville, AL

256-332-3826

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FRANKLIN LIVING

FRANKLIN MEMORY GARDENS RUSSELLVILLE’S ONLY PERPETUAL CARE CEMETERY

Serving You Since 1960 Complete Ground Burial Services

Wooten Chiropractic & Pre-Employment P.C.

We o;er Ground Burial, Mausoleum, and Cremation Niches.

All may be purchased at need or pre-need to include the grave fee and bronze memorial.

OͿce on grounds located at 2710 Waterloo Road • Russellville

Certified Federal DOT Testing

Carolyn Atkins Porter

Dr. Rick Wooten is now listed on the National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners for DOT Physicals

256-332-2115

256-331-0208 • Jackson Ave., Russellville

Focused on Quality Vision Care

Spent TOO MUCH?

for the whole family

Let us get you to your next check.

Campbell Vision Center

Dr. Jeremy Campbell MOST INSURANCE ACCEPTED

256-332-1355

14378 Highway 43

eye exams • vision therapy • contact lenses • prescription eyeglasses • sunglasses • designer & budget frames

Atkins Marble & Granite Works, Inc. Headstones • Grave Markers • Monuments • Cremation Urns • Memorial Benches • Memorial Portraits • Granite Marble • Bronze Markers • Cemetery Vases • Lettering • We engrave death dates

(256) 332-1108 • 15347 HWY. 43 • RUSSELLVILLE 8:30-5:30 MON, TUES, THURS, FRI • 8:30-2:00 SAT • CLOSED WED & SUN

Franklin Living is published monthly

by Franklin County Newspapers, Inc. Copyright 2011 by Franklin County Newspapers, Inc.

P.O. Box 1088 • Russellville, AL 35653 256-332-1881 • fax: 256-332-1883 www.franklincountytimes.com FRANKLIN LIVING

In business since 1926 (256) 332-2332 403 E. Lawrence Street Owners: Grant & Beverly Atkins atkinsmarble@bellsouth.net Russellville, AL

General Manager Nicole Pell Managing Editor Kellie Singleton Sales Peggy Hyde Circulation Alton Zills Photography Kellie Singleton Niki Anne Photography Angelbabies Photography Erin Lindsey Images 5

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On the Job

P take up residence at local Pets businesses in Franklin County b

Dressed to the nines

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A Russellville woman makes clothes for pets near and far

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Taking responsibility

The importance of spaying and neutering your pets

Lending a helping hand

36

P.A.W.S. volunteers look to expand in Franklin County

8 What To Do 18 What’s Hot 22 Wellness 23 Classifieds 32 Food 40 Looking Back 42 Parting Shot 6

FRANKLIN LIVING

FROM THE EDITOR

F

or as long as I can remember, I have been an animal person. I can remember stray dogs and cats coming up to our house when I was little and I always wanted to feed and keep every last one, much to my parents’ chagrin.

That love for animals has stuck with me throughout my life and was evident when my husband, David, and I rescued our dog, Phoebe, in November of 2011, and when we rescued Turnip, a white and spotted stray cat that we adopted into our family in November 2013.

This month’s issue of Franklin Living is devoted to the pets of Franklin County – those cuddly, four-legged friends (or colorful, winged companions) who are always willing to lend a listening ear and are eager to greet you when you get home after a long, hard day. Those special creatures that love you unconditionally and make you smile time after time.

There are many people in the county and associated with the county who devote a significant amount of their time to making sure the animals in the area are taken care of. One of these organizations is the Shoals-based group Pets Are Worth Saving (P.A.W.S.), which serves Franklin, Colbert and Lauderdale counties. This all-volunteer organization is looking to expand its services in Franklin County and is hoping to attract some local volunteers who would be willing to foster some of the animals that come through their organization until they find their forever homes.

Inside this month’s edition, you will also find a feature on some of the county’s working pets that are permanent fixtures in Russellville’s downtown business district. Each one of them has a special and unique story that will have you wanting to meet these cats and dogs in person.

FCNI managing editor Kellie Singleton with her husband, David, and their dog, Phoebe.

Whether you are a cat person, a dog person, a horse person, or someone who loves all animals, there is plenty of information in this month’s magazine to help you be an even better pet owner than you’ve been before, so curl up on your couch with your four-legged friends and enjoy what this issue of Franklin Living has to offer.

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WHAT TO DO Valentine’s Day event February 14 The Russellville Public Library will host “For the Love of Books: Romance and Reading” on Friday, Feb. 14, at 7 p.m. at the A.W. Todd Centre in Russellville. The event will include a romantic dinner, entertainment, and door prizes, including a stay at the Marriot Shoals. Tickets are $10 and are on sale now. All proceeds go to benefit the Friends of the Russellville Public Library. For more information, call 256-332-1535, or stop by 110 East Lawrence Street, Russellville, 35653.

FCCDC meeting February 21 The next meeting of the Franklin

County Community Development Commission will be held on Friday, Feb. 21, at 8:30 a.m. at the Franklin County Commission Annex office in Russellville to consider grants for the month of February 2014.

All grants must be turned into Brad Bolton for disbursement to other members by Monday, Feb. 17, 2014.

Community Education workshops February 18, 25 The “Getting the Most from Your iPhone” class will be Feb. 18 from 6 p.m. until 8 p.m. in the Red Bay School Library. The fee is $12 and the instructor will be Tony Darracott.

The “Getting the Most from Your

Dittos for Kiddos

iPad” class will be Feb. 25 from 6 p.m. until 8 p.m. in the Red Bay School Library. The fee is $12 and the instructor will be Tony Darracott. For more information or to register for these classes, call Community Education at 25-3310005.

Free tax service February 13 - April 10 AARP Tax-Aide will be offering free income tax preparation services at the Dept. of Human Resources in Russellville each Thursday from 9 a.m. until 3 p.m. from Feb. 13 – April 10. You do not have to be a member of AARP, a retiree, or a certain age to use this service. For more information, call Ben at 256-332-0252 to schedule an appointment.

FRANKLIN COUNTY Where YOU live, work and play!

Childrens Consignment Sale

Spring Sale March 1-8 Fairgrounds, Muscle Shoals

www.dittosforkiddos.net

Captured memories of the one that is FURever in your heart.

334-324-2605 • www.facebook.com/nikiannephotography • www.nikiannephotography.com/home 8

FRANKLIN LIVING

OUT & ABOUT

Pets of Franklin County

Abby - Owners: Ricky and Lynn Suddith of Russellville.

Allie - Owners: Bill and Rhoda Jackson of Russellville

Bailey - Owner: Anna Anderson of Russellville

Daisy - Owners: Ricky, Kathy and Traci Hall of Russellville.

Archie - Owner: Connie Underwood of Russellville

Pacman - Owner: Rita Barton of Phil Campbell FRANKLIN LIVING

Buddy - Owner: Andy Devaney of Russellville

Remo - Owners: Gary and Mitzi McNutt of Russellville

Tater - Owner: Erica McGraw of Russellville

Emma - Owners: Justin, Brittney, and Sophia Bell of Phil Campbell 9

OUT & ABOUT

Pets of Franklin County

Annabelle - Owners: Don and Linda Holcomb of Red Bay

Izzy - Owners: Paul and Yvonne Foster of Russellville

Gigette - Owners: Jackie and Peggy Fowler of Phil Campbell

Marge and Nellie - Owners: Mike and Nikki Tutich of Russellville

Chipper - Owners: Rodney and Jennifer Cox of Russellville

Gracie - Owners: Justin and Charlotte Green of Russellville 10

Kilo - Owners: Blake Hyde and Nicole Sumerel of Russellville

Duke - Owners: Kelli, Kohen and Luke Newton of Phil Campbell

Bradie - Owners: Wes and Brooke Bishop of Russellville

Cuddly Bell - Owners: Justin, Britney and Sophia Bell of Phil Campbell FRANKLIN LIVING

SPRY MEMORIAL CHAPEL OF RUSSELLVILLE “Caring People, Caring for People”

256-332-1122 906 South Jackson Ave. • Russellville sprymemorialchapel.com

“Your family’s health IS our business” HOMETOWN PHARMACY Pharmacist: Carrie DeArman

Behind KFC on Gandy St. Russellville (256) 332-7400

THE DRUG SHOP of RUSSELLVILLE Located in Big Star shopping center (256) 332-8550

Pharmacist: Jeremy Lane

FAMILY PHARMACY of LITTLEVILLE At the caution light in Littleville (256) 332-4021

Pharmacist: Brad Bowling

FAMILY PHARMACY of RUSSELLVILLE

www.FamilyPharmacyGroup.com FRANKLIN LIVING

Across from McDonald’s on Hwy. 43 (256) 332-5545

Pharmacist: Jody Kiel

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STORY BY KELLIE SINGLETON PHOTOS BY KELLIE SINGLETON

On the Job M

ost businesses are content with having only human employees, but there are a few local businesses that have some fourlegged staffers that they say are important members of the day-to-day operations at each of their establishments.

Macy – Thompson’s Drapery and Interiors

Buddy and Kim Perdue, owners of Thompson’s Drapery and Interiors in Russellville, both have a soft spot in their heart when it comes to animals, which is why the couple has spent many hours finding loving homes for stray animals in the area.

Seven years ago, the Perdues rescued a multi-colored tabby cat that had been abandoned by its owners. Knowing they wanted the nearly year-old cat to have a loving home for the rest of its life, Buddy and Kim decided they would adopt the cat and call her their own.

After deciding to name her Macy and taking her to the vet for a check-up and to be spayed, Buddy and Kim brought Macy back to their business in downtown Russellville so she could rest away from the other animals they already had at their home.

Once she was there, it became apparent that the business would be her new home. Kim said they loved having her there each day while they worked.

“If I’m ever upset or stressed, she just calms me down and makes me feel better,” Kim said. “She’s just like a mood booster. It’s hard to be upset around her. She just brightens everyone’s day.”

Kim said Macy loves to climb up by the sewing machine while they are working and loves to be brushed, but her favorite thing to do each day is crawl into the store’s front window and lie in the sun.

“Most afternoons that’s where you can find her,” Kim said. “There are people who know she’ll be there and will come by just to see her. Some people even stop and take her picture.”

Kim said the customers love seeing her, too.

“She’s developed quite a following,” Kim said. “Our customers love her, especially the kids. And she loves them too.”

Hunter – Ava’s China and Gifts Anyone who has shopped at Ava’s China and Gifts in Russellville has undoubtedly met Hunter, the spirited little 10-year-old Yorkshire terrier that belongs to owners Woody and Linda Woodruff.

Hunter is at the store almost everyday the store is open and is always ready to greet each customer with a friendly tail wag or a welcoming bark.

“Hunter goes everywhere with us, so he has been up here at the store with us since we got him,” Linda said.

“He really does love getting to see all the people who come in and be part of everything that’s going on.”

Linda said one of Hunter’s favorite things is to go get the mail each day.

“He absolutely loves it,” she said. “He has a fit barking at the mailman when he come up, and then after the mail gets dropped off, he has to go out to the mailbox and see what’s inside. We bring everything back inside and he sits there while we open it. He looks forward to that every day.”

Another highlight of the day for Hunter is getting smoked chicken from Taylor’s Restaurant that is just right up the hill from the store.

“Woody will go get him smoked chicken for lunch and it’s just his favorite,” she said.

“He’s probably one of their most loyal customers.”

Linda said Hunter has been up at the store

FRANKLIN LIVING

Macy hangs out near the sewing machine at Thompson’s Drapery and Interiors where she has lived for the past seven years.

Hunter is always there to greet customers at Ava’s China and Gifts.

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so long that many customers have given him his own nickname.

“Sometimes we call him ‘Mr. Ava,’” she said. “He’s even gotten to where he’ll answer to that.

“The customers just love him and love coming in to see him. He’s just a good-natured little dog and he just brightens the place up when he’s here.”

Katie – Bolton Furniture For the past five years, Katie, a wire-haired terrier mix, has been a fixture at Bolton Furniture in downtown Russellville.

Bobby Bolton, owner of the store, said Katie is there every day, faithfully greeting each customer as she sits in “her chair.”

“Katie’s been up here with me since she was six weeks old,” Bolton said. “This store is where she loves to be. It’s what she knows.”

Bolton said Katie is his constant companion on the job and also loves to go with him when he has errands t run.

“She gets real excited when it looks like I’m going to the truck,” Bolton said.

“She goes with me to all the factories to pick up merchandise, and everybody knows her. She also goes with me when I have to get out in town. She loves going for a ride. Her tail will start wagging if you even mention it.”

Another thing Katie loves to do is something that has become a morning tradition for Bolton and his dog.

“Her favorite thing to do is play ‘Run, Dog, Run,” Bolton said.

“It’s a game we came up with and we play it every morning. First thing every morning I look at her and say, “You want to play ‘Run, Dog, Run’? And she will take off running and run a circuit around the store and come right back to where I am. We play that three or four times before she gets tired.

“After that, she usually just sits in her chair for most of the day or she’ll come back to my desk and see me.”

Bolton said he enjoyed having Katie with him at the store because she was good company.

“It’s especially nice to have her on days when we’re not real busy,” he said. “We’ll go sit outside on the bench and just watch the cars and people. There are several little dogs in the neighborhood that come by each day to see her, and there’s even some people who will pop in just to see her, too.

And most customers know her by name. She’s just become the face of the business.”

Grey, Miss Kitty & Greyson – Abstract and Appraisal Wanda Myrick is an animal lover through and through, so it probably comes as no surprise to those who know her that she has a few furry friends that take up residence at her business in downtown Russellville.

For those who do business at Abstract and Appraisal, the first ones to greet you as you come

You can usually find Katie in “her chair” if you visit Bolton Furniture in downtown Russellville.

Grey and Miss Kitty lounge on the front counter at Abstract and Appraisal.

through the door will most likely be the three cats who call the business home – Grey, Greyson and Miss Kitty.

All three cats were former strays that Myrick rescued this past June after she found them wandering in the area near her business.

“Miss Kitty was the first to come up, and she brought her two kittens, Grey and Greyson, with her,” Myrick said.

“When they first came up, they were so sick and so hungry. I was worried the kittens might not make it. But I began feeding them and taking care of them and they became the most loving, friendly cats. We couldn’t find another home for them, so I decided they could stay here.”

Even though the trio is fairly new to the business, Myrick has always had a cat or two staying at Abstract and Appraisal.

She had her beloved cat, Baby, with her at the office for 17 years before she passed away more than a year ago.

“They’re just good company,” Myrick said. “They’re loving and most of the time they will help you relax.

“Rescue animals are the best kind, in my opinion, because I really do think they are appreciative. They know that they’ve been given a good home with someone who will love them and take care of them, and I think they recognize that.”

Katie watches as people pass by Bolton Furniture in downtown Russellville.

Gracee – Hester Printing & Graphics, Inc. Owning a business downtown, Robert Hester has seen his fair share of stray cats pass by Hester Printing & Graphics, located in downtown Russellville.

Sometimes it was just a cat passing through, but other times, the same cat would keep showing up day after day – a pretty good

FRANKLIN LIVING

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Gracee enjoys lying on the counter and greeting customers at Hester Printing & Graphics, Inc.

She also loves standing at the front window and watching the people pass by the store.

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indication it had no other place to call home.

This was the case with Gracee, Hester’s seven-year-old tan tabby cat that now lives at his business.

Hester said Gracee had been roaming the streets for several days and since he loves cats, he decided to give her a home.

“My wife, Carol, and I took her home and she lived at home with us for about three years,” he said.

“She was starting to not get along with our other cat, so about four years ago, I brought her back up to the shop and she has lived here ever since.”

Hester said she enjoys greeting the customers and she often comes to sit or lay on the counter as customers place their orders.

She really likes people and likes to get attention, so if someone comes in, she usually has to go check it out and see if it’s someone who might pet her,” he said.

Hester said Gracee also loves hanging out on the ledge of the front window where she can see all the people coming and going in the Big Star parking lot.

“Most people love her,” he said. “There are plenty of people who come by here a couple times a week who have gotten used to seeing her sitting in the window or on the counter, and sometimes they’ll come in just to see her.”

When she isn’t greeting customers, Hester said Gracee is just good company to have around.

“When I’m working in the evenings or on the weekends, she’ll want to come sit in my lap or she’ll sit near my feet,” he said. “I really enjoy having her up here and I think the customers do, too.”

FRANKLIN LIVING

)VOMTJIJQM[ 8PW\WOZIXPa Owner/Photograher: Briana Bryant 256-324-7681

The Willows Day Spa 1115 E. 6th Street, Tuscumbia 256-386-0630 • www.willowsdayspa.com

FRANKLIN LIVING

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WHAT’S HOT

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FRANKLIN LIVING

OUT & ABOUT

Pets of Franklin County

Kiwi - Owners: Dianne Stonecipher Maddox and Mark Maddox of Russellville

Izzy - Owners: Jerry and Marilyn Keelon of Russellville

Trixie - Owners: Matthew and Kelly Massey of Spruce Pine

Shula and Finn - Owners: Gary and Mitzi McNutt of Russellville

Dierks - Owners: Cliff and Tara Vincent of Russellville

Snowball - Owner: Erica McGraw of Russellville 20

Thumper - Owners: Tyler and Elizabeth Elkins of Belgreen

Gypsy - Owners: Paul and Yvonne Foster of Russellville

Rasal Flatt - Owner: Shelley Hill of Dempsey

Sunni - Owners: Dianne Stonecipher Maddox and Mark Maddox of Russellville FRANKLIN LIVING

OUT & ABOUT

Pets of Franklin County

Pugsley - Owner: Nicole Pell, FCT general manager

Domino - Owner: Tammy Hill Bailey of East Franklin

Reb - Owner: John Seal of Russellville

Lucy - Owners: Sydney and Nathan Medley of Russellville

Csonka - Owners: Gary and Mitzi McNutt of Russellville

Toby and Graham - Owners: Cliff and Tara Vincent of Russellville FRANKLIN LIVING

Mollie - Owners: Ronald and Carol Fretwell of Russellville

Snoopie and Max - Owner: Kris Spencer of Red Bay

Rio - Owners: Dianne Stonecipher Maddox and Mark Maddox of Russellville

Lil Bit - Owners: Justin and Charlotte Green of Russellville 21

WELLNESS

American Red Cross Issues New Pet First Aid App

Pets are an important part of many families, and a new Red Cross Pet First Aid App puts lifesaving information right in the hands of dog and cat owners so they can provide emergency care until veterinary assistance is available.

The 99 cent Pet First Aid app gives iPhone and Android smart phone users instant access to expert information so they learn how to maintain their pet’s health and what to do during emergencies.

“Pet owners learn how to recognize health problems and when to contact their veterinarian,” said Mark Beddingfield, Regional Executive Officer, American Red Cross Alabama Region.

“The Pet First Aid App provides step-by-step instructions, videos and images for more than 25 common first aid and emergency situations including how to treat wounds, control bleeding, and care for breathing and cardiac emergencies.”

Additional topics include burns, car accidents, falls and what to do for cold- and heat-related emergencies.

Other features in the app allow pet owners to: • Create a pet profile including tag identification number, photos, list of medications and instructions.

• Use the list of early warning signs to learn when to call their veterinarian.

• Use “click-to-call” to contact their veterinarian.

• Find emergency pet care facilities or alternate veterinarians with the “animal hospital locator.”

• Locate pet-friendly hotels.

• Test their knowledge with interactive quizzes and earn

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badges that they can share on their social networks along with their favorite picture of their pet.

History shows that people have not evacuated during disasters because they did not want to leave their pets behind. The Red Cross app contains resources to help owners include pets in their emergency action plans. Pet owners may also take a Red Cross Pet First Aid course so they can practice the skills and receive feedback. People can go to redcross.org/takeaclass for information and to register.

The Red Cross has made great strides in making emergency information available whenever and wherever people need it.

The Pet First Aid App and other Red Cross apps can be found in the Apple App Store and the Google Play Store for Android by searching for American Red Cross or by going to redcross. org/mobileapps.

About the American Red Cross: The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies about 40 percent of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a not-for-profit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or visit us on Twitter at @RedCross.

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Aymee Gandy poses with her dog, Katie Scarlett, in her craft room where she makes all the items she sells in her Etsy shop Yorkie To Happiness.

Dressed to the nines W STORY BY KELLIE SINGLETON PHOTOS BY KELLIE SINGLETON

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hen Russellville resident Aymee Gandy takes her miniature Yorkshire terrier out in public, she almost always elicits a few stares.

But those who are staring at Gandy and her tiny pup aren’t normally marveling at the dog’s cute face or her tiny, furry paws. They’re actually staring at the custom-made clothes and bows that the dog sports almost everywhere she goes.

Katie Scarlet, a name Gandy chose for her Yorkie in honor of her favorite movie character, Scarlett O’Hara, rarely goes without clothes whether she’s accompanying Gandy on errands or just lounging around the house.

But the special thing about the dog’s clothes isn’t simply the fact that she wears them every day – it’s the fact that each piece of her clothing is custom made by Gandy herself.

Gandy is a soon-to-be mom who, along with her husband, Brandon, is anxiously awaiting the arrival of their little boy in April.

But before they got the exciting news that they were going to be parents, Aymee and Brandon considered Katie Scarlett to be their “child.”

“I have always wanted a Yorkie, so when we were living in Pennsylvania and Brandon was working a lot for the railroad, we decided to go ahead and get a Yorkie, mainly to keep me company when I was home by myself,” Gandy said.

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They brought Katie Scarlett home in October of 2011 and Gandy said she knew immediately she was going to be one of “those” pet owners who dressed their dog in different outfits and bows.

“I think it’s the cutest thing for little dogs to be dressed up, so I knew I wanted to do that with Katie Scarlett, but buying dog clothes can get expensive and sometimes the clothes wouldn’t fit her just right,” Gandy said.

“I’ve always been a crafty person – I love to scrapbook and make things – so I thought I could probably find a few patterns and make some outfits myself that would be more cost effective and made to her size.”

And thus began what has evolved into Yorkie To Happiness, Gandy’s online Etsy shop where she sells custom animal clothing to many interested customers.

“I hadn’t really sewn much at all before I started sewing clothes for Katie Scarlett, but I taught myself how and I just loved it,” she said. “It was so satisfying to make her a cute outfit that people would compliment and know that I made that with my own two hands.”

After making several outfits for her own dog, Gandy said she decided she would start taking orders to make outfits for other dogs as a way to supplement their income.

“A lot of it was so I could have money to support my fabric addiction,” Gandy joked. “I love fabric, so most of the money from my sales goes toward purchasing new fabric to make other things because it’s really more of a hobby now than just a job. I love doing it.”

Gandy said she mainly takes orders for custom outfits for smaller dogs, but she has made clothing for other animals as well.

“I’ve made outfits for Chihuahuas, Labs, Yorkies and Pomeranians, but I’ve also done some outfits for a Rottweiler, a few cats, and I even had a person contact me about making something for their iguana, but I wasn’t able to do what she was needing,” Gandy said.

“I’ve shipped all over the U.S., to Hawaii, to Canada, to Japan, and to Korea. You wouldn’t believe the number of people who want custom outfits for their animals for birthday parties, holidays and just for every day use.”

Gandy said the animal clothes she makes are affordably priced and are created with fashion and safety in mind.

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Katie Scarlett models one of the dresses made by her owner, Aymee Gandy.

“The clothes are cute, but everything is made with reinforced, sturdy D-rings for safety so the animals can be walked in any of the outfits,” she said.

“I also make them affordable because I know how fun it can be to dress up your dog, but you don’t want to spend your life savings doing it.”

Gandy’s most popular pieces are dresses, jumpsuits/pantsuits, harnesses and pajamas. She said she also makes dog carriers for dogs weighing 10 pounds or less, dog blankets, dog beds, costumes, coats and hats.

She has also recently purchased an embroidery machine so she can do monogramming as well.

“Some people may think I’m crazy for dressing up my dog or making dog clothes to sell to other people, but it really is a lot of fun,” she said.

Gandy’s Etsy shop can be accessed by going to www.etsy. com/shop/YorkieToHappiness.

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FRANKLIN LIVING

OUT & ABOUT

Pets of Franklin County

Bear - Owners: Justin, Brittney, and Sophia Bell of Phil Campbell

Daisie - Owner: Nicole Pell, FCT general manager

Maggie Moo - Owner: MaKayla Franks of Tharptown

Missy - Owners: Emily, Rebecca, and Vic Johnson of Spruce Pine

Meeko - Owner: Victoria Vasquez of Russellville

LuLu and Roscoe - Owners: Drew and Nicole Henderson of Russellville

Turnip - Owners: David and Kellie Singleton of Russellville

Radar - Owners: Dianne Stonecipher Maddox and Mark Maddox of Russellville

Maci - Owner: LaShanda Wingo of Frog Pond

Patches - Owner: Megan Bailey of East Franklin

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Kila - Owners: Dianne Stonecipher Maddox and Mark Maddox of Russellville

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Taking responsibility, one pet at a time ussellville resident Mitzi McNutt is a self-proclaimed animal lover and spends a fair share of her time promoting the humane treatment of animals as well as the need for people to be responsible pet owners.

These issues aren’t something McNutt takes lightly, especially since she has seen the negative effects of animal abuse, neglect, and irresponsibility first-hand.

One issue that McNutt is adamant about is having your pets spayed or neutered to prevent unwanted dogs and cats from overpopulating the area and local animal shelters and rescues.

“At first, my husband and I would claim the stray animal as our own, have them fixed and they became part of our STORY BY family, but there’s only so many pets you can claim KELLIE SINGLETON as your own,” she said. “We’ve even had a few cats & DENNIS SHERER fixed not knowing if they actually belonged to anyPHOTOS BY one, and just let them go.

KELLIE SINGLETON “Eventually, though, it became a real issue, so I’ve

R

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learned how to network with friends and organizations to find homes for them.

“I really try to contact people I know and use social media before I ask rescue organizations for help because they are so overwhelmed as it is. However, if I’m faced with a large litter or a particularly big dog, I’m grateful I’ve had them to count on.”

Dr. Jimmy Britton, a local veterinarian at Franklin Animal Hospital in Russellville, said spaying and neutering your pets is also a responsible thing for a pet owner to do because it can offer health benefits for your animal.

“Your animal is less likely to have health problems if you choose to have it spayed or neutered,” Britton said.

“Spayed females are less likely to have breast tumors and infections. Neutered males are less likely to roam, which could result in the animal getting hurt.”

Britton said he has also seen the negative effects of dog and cat overpopulation.

“A large number of animals that people bring in to be cared for are strays or animals that have been rescued,” Britton said.

“Overpopulation is definitely a problem here, just like it is in many other places. Spaying and neutering your pet is something that could help curb this problem.”

Shoals Pets Are Worth Saving (P.A.W.S.) is also a big advocate for responsible pet ownership and they help to prevent the overpopulation of unwanted dogs and cats through their spay and neuter programs.

“The core of controlling the pet population is to prevent

unwanted dogs and cats from being born,” P.A.W.S. president Terri Whalen said.

Spaying or neutering typically costs more than $100, but through the P.A.W.S. Program, low income residents of Franklin, Colbert, and Lauderdale counties can have their dog or cat spayed or neutered for $20. Each qualifying pet owner can have up to four pets spayed or neutered per year.

By offering the program to Shoals area residents who receive public assistance, P.A.W.S. is working to reduce the number of unwanted dogs and cats being sent to shelters or abandoned.

“It’s a great way to ‘fix’ the problem,” Whalen said.

Another P.A.W.S. program traps feral cats, spays or neuters them, and releases them back into the same location where they were found or into another feral cat colony.

The goal of the program is to eventually eliminate that cat colony by stopping their ability to reproduce.

Whalen said feral cats have been captured in Franklin County, fixed, and then released to continue their life in the wild.

But even though spaying and neutering pets is one of the most effective ways of preventing overpopulation and overcrowding at local shelters, McNutt said the problems with responsible pet ownership don’t stop there.

“The problem is bigger than just spaying and neutering pets, really,” she said.

“What kind of example do we set for children by being

Roy was a stray kitten brought to the Franklin Animal Hospital to be euthanized, but Dr. Jimmy Britton gave him a home at the clinic and he has lived there for the past five years.

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Sassy was an older, unwanted cat who was scheduled to be put down before the Brittons gave her a home at Franklin Animal Hospital.

irresponsible pet owners? Teaching children to care and have compassion for animals is so important. It’s the foundation for how we treat one another, so we have to practice what we preach.

“Everyone can start by humanely securing pets on their own property. Being tied up outside in all sorts of weather is not humane.

Have your pet on a leash as you walk outside, or provide them with a safe environment to run and play. Many of the pets that roam, and those that get lost or are dumped, are not spayed or neutered – and they multiply.”

McNutt said responsible pet ownership needs to begin with the actual pet owner, but she said there are instances where certain laws or regulations could help with the animal control problems that she feels plague the area.

“We’ve always had a problem with stray cats and dogs roaming neighborhoods and causing problems,” McNutt said.

“I’m sure everyone has seen strays around restaurant dumpsters and walking around

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town, and I’ve heard from several friends that it’s just as bad or worse outside the city limits.

“Communities like ours really need to rethink and rewrite laws concerning stray animals and then make sure those law are enforced.

Perhaps local governments could create an incentive for people to spay or neuter their pets and penalize people that refuse to after a certain time frame. These are just some ideas, but we need to start somewhere.”

McNutt said people could also help by doing things like purchasing a “Spay and Neuter” car tag where $41.25 of every $50 tag purchased goes toward helping low income families get their pets spayed and neutered.

“I wish the issue of stray animals and spaying and neutering your pets was somewhere on the list of things people considered important, but it’s not,” she said.

“I’ve always been told that if it’s important to you, you’ll make the time. If it’s not, you’ll make excuses. Honestly, there’s no excuse for apathy. We have to have compassion, and we have to model compassion.”

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FOOD

Cooking with Sam Recipes by Sam Warf Sam’s Cat, Miss Blossom Dog Bones 2 cups whole wheat flour 1 cup rolled oats 1/3 cup smooth or chunky peanut butter 1 1/4 cup hot water Additional flour for rolling 1. In a large bowl, whisk flour, oats, peanut butter and hot water. If dough is too sticky, add more flour.

2. Kneed the dough well. Make into ball, cover with plastic wrap and let rest for 15 minutes.

3. Pre-heat oven to 350 degrees. On floured parchment paper, roll out to 1/4 inch thickness, cut into shapes with cookie cutters, use a bone shaped cutter or any cutter you have.

4. Bake 40 minutes, turn off oven and leave in oven overnight, the drier the better, they will last longer.

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FOOD Chicken-n-Rice for Kitty 1/4 cup cooked chicken breast 1/2 oz. clams (canned), chopped in juice 1/2 cup long-grain rice, cooked 1/2 tbsp. chicken fat 1/8 tsp. salt 1/4 multiple vitamin 1/10 B complex vitamin-trace mineral tablet Chop chicken, add all other ingredients, crush vitamin. Put into small container to form mold. Do not leave out over 30 minutes.

Kitty Breakfast 1 tbsp. nonfat dry milk 3 medium eggs 3 tbsp cottage cheese 3 tbsp grated veggies (any, I use carrots and spinach) Mix together milk powder with small amount of water. Add eggs and beat well. Pour into small non-stick pan. Cook on medium until done. Flip over in spread cottage cheese and sprinkle veggies. fold over like omelet. Cool and cut into bite size piece to serve.

Puppy Cookies 2 cups of whole wheat flour 1 tbsp. baking powder 1 cup of carob chips 1 cup of peanut butter 1 cup milk 2 eggs 1/4 cup honey 1. Combine flour and baking powder in large bowl.

2. In small bowl, combine peanut butter, milk, eggs and honey. Mix well.

3. Add milk mixture to the dry ingredients.

Mix with mixture in small bowl. Add carob chips last.

4. Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Use teaspoon, drop on cookie sheet. Bake 20 minutes. Place on cooling rack.

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Lending a Helping Hand P.A.W.S. looks to expand locally

Shoals organization known for helping Franklin County residents find a best friend is looking to expand its services in the area.

Shoals Pets are Worth Saving (P.A.W.S) wants to increase its presence in Franklin during the coming months.

In addition to helping find new homes for STORY BY pets, P.A.W.S. helps reunite lost pets with DENNIS SHERER their humans and operates a low-cost PHOTOS BY spay and neuter program.

NIKI ANNE PHOTOGRAPHY “We have taken several strays into our foster program that were found in Franklin County and found new homes for them,” said Terri Whalen, president of Shoals P.A.W.S. The foster program sends pets to a volunteer who cares for them until someone adopts them. Before being adopted, the dogs and cats receive veterinary care, are spayed or neutered, checked for disease, and receive a microchip to identify them with in case they became lost from their new home.

Whalen said volunteers willing to provide homes to the foster animals are needed in Franklin County.

Debby Nelson, a P.A.W.S. volunteer, said fostering pets is a rewarding experience. She has seen animals come into the program that were near death, but with proper veterinary care and the love and attention of a P.A.W.S. volunteer, the animals were soon thriving and on their way to a new home.

“We have wonderful people, including some in Franklin County,

A

Nala, a Catahoula Leopard dog and Alaskan husky mix, is only a year old and is available for adoption. who will take the dogs and cats into their homes and give them love and take care of them until they are adopted,” Nelson said. “Fostering is a great experience for anyone who loves pets.”

Although P.A.W.S. is made up entirely of volunteers who receive no pay, it is expensive for the organization to provide its services. Whalen said the veterinary bill alone for P.A.W.S. is typically around $10,000 per month.

“Every dollar we collect is spent for supplies or services for the pets,” Whalen said.

“We have no one on our payroll. Without volunteers and donations, we would not exist.”

She said donations of money are vital to the organization and added that some Franklin County businesses have helped P.A.W.S. by donating a portion of their sales on one day to the group.

One of those businesses was Audrey’s Gifts and Décor in Russellville, which set aside a day this past September where 20 percent of the day’s proceeds went to P.A.W.S. “I knew this was something that other businesses had done, and when I was looking for a way to give back to the community, I thought this would be a great way to do that,” owner

Brigitte is a two-month-old short-hair Chihuahua and Jack Russell terrier mix who needs a loving home.

OPPOSITE PAGE: Betsy is an 11-month-old shepherd/American pit bull mix who is available for adoption through P.A.W.S.

Corey is a six-year-old male Shih Tzu mix who is available for adoption through P.A.W.S. Audrey Herring said.

“I have a dog who is a rescue and I know how much this organization does to help rescue animals and find them good homes, so I thought it was definitely a worth cause.

“The response we had that day was great. Our customers seemed to be glad that they were able to help local animals while they shopped, and we were able to give a good donation to P.A.W.S., so it was a win-win for everyone.

“This kind of fundraiser is definitely something

I would recommend to other businesses in the area.”

Another way for businesses, groups or individuals to help the organization is to collect pet food or other supplies for P.A.W.S., Whalen said.

She hopes to see more donations coming from Franklin County to help P.A.W.S. expand its services in the county.

Whalen also hopes to establish a dialogue with elected officials on ways P.A.W.S can work with local governments in the county to reduce the

McDuff is a three-yearold male terrier mix who is looking for his forever home.

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LEFT: Gabbie is a nearly two-year-old American Pit Bull/ Labrador retriever mix who is looking for a place to call her own. number of pets being euthanized at the animal shelter.

“We are in Franklin County, providing our services, but there is so much more we could do there with more volunteers and more donations and by working more closely with the government leaders there,” she said.

Details about becoming a P.A.W.S. volunteer are available at the group’s website, shoalspaws. com, or by calling Whalen at 256-263-2009.

Photographs of pets ready for adoption are available on the group’s Facebook page, www.facebook.com/shoalspaws.

The Facebook page also displays photographs of lost or found dogs and cats in an effort to reunite them with their owner.

Details on how to donate to the organization can also be found on the shoalspaws.com website or by calling Whalen.

BELOW: Honey is a sweet, seven-year-old long-haired Chihuahua mix who is available for adoption today.

All of the dogs featured in this story are currently available for adoption through P.A.W.S. For more infromation or to fill out an adoption form for one of these sweet pups, visit the P.A.W.S. website at www.shoalspaws.com.

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39

LOOKING BACK

40

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OUT & ABOUT

Pets of Franklin County

Tango - Owners: Dianne Stonecipher Maddox and Mark Maddox of Russellville

Toto - Owners: Joe and Deborah Glasgow of Belgreen

Max - Owners: Emily, Rebecca, and Vic Johnson of Spruce Pine

Talullah - Owners: Gary and Mitzi McNutt of Russellville

Runt - Owner: Janice Pennington of Tharptown

Tide - Owners: Justin and Charlotte Green of Russellville

Phoebe - Owners: David and Kellie Singleton of Russellville

Rosie - Owner: Amita Smith of Russellville

Tiki - Owners: Dianne Stonecipher Maddox and Mark Maddox of Russellville

Rosie - Owner: Nicole Pell, FCT general manager

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Sonny and Pepper - Owners: Mike and Belinda Johnson of Russellville

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PARTING SHOT

“A dog is the only thing on earth that loves you more than he loves himself.”

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