New England Pet & Home Winter 2021

NEW ENGLAND

PET&HOME

WINTER 2021 MAGAZINE

welcome Welcome to another rendition of New England Pet & Home: a lifestyle & pet lovers’ resource! If you have already been connected with us, you know we are New England enthusiasts, lovers of beautiful homes and décor, celebrators of families of all kinds, as well as devoted pet lovers and rescue advocates. We think that list encompasses all the best aspects of life. We hope you agree.

We all know the rollercoaster of 2020 was tumultuous at times. That rollercoaster began doing loops at the start of 2021. Like everyone, we acknowledge the difficulties so many have faced and are facing currently. We try to focus on how to stay grounded. We endeavor to be grateful for all that is good. It isn’t always easy. One wonderful thing that is worthy of gratitude is the luxury of being able to experience the beauty of New England and to see firsthand the grand and aweinspiring winters. You might prefer lounging by water in the summer, but everyone can see the beauty of a snow-ensconced New England landscape.

Another positive thing for us is that the last issue of New England Pet & Home was downloaded 80,000 times – reaching not only throughout New England but all over the country as lovers of New England and pet parents converged on this new publication. We will now be publishing in partnership with Amazon for release on Kindle and we will remain with issuu.com as a distribution channel that works so beautifully with social media. It has been an amazing start and we thank you!

New England Pet & Home is proud to publish in partnership with New Hampshire Humane Society as well as many other partners and contributors. We feature professional writers as well as written contributions from our readers. We would love to hear from you on the topics of home, pets, family, and New England.

Please make a point to get in touch with your general ideas or with drafted articles.

Not seeing loved ones has been so challenging when we all need each other. In the absence of some of your tribe, we hope you still find beauty and love. Do share this publication with others and share your stories with us! We believe “doing the best we can” is infinitely better when we rely on each other. Wherever you are and whoever you’re with, enjoy the beautiful things life provides.

For the love of animals.

Charles Stanton Creative Director, New England Pet & Home Magazine Executive Director, New Hampshire Humane Society

NEW ENGLAND p PET & HOME CREATIVE DIRECTOR

CHARLES STANTON DIRECTOR@NEWENGLANDPETANDHOME.COM

THIS MONTH’S

in this issue 2

WELCOME

3

TABLE OF CONTENTS

4

A WOMAN’S PLACE IS IN THE HOME (STEAD):

NEW ENGLAND WOMEN WHO REMOVED

CONTRIBUTORS & PARTNERS

THE SHACKLES OF GENDER EXPECTATIONS

JANINE ALLEN

MICHAEL AVERY KRIS CASUCCI PAOLO DIAZ DR. TASHA MURPHY, DVM DR. CHARLES STANTON

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SHUT THE FRONT DOOR:

10

A PERFECT BLEND:

CREATIVITY AND COMPASSION AT

DAVE TURNER BLACK LIVES MATTER GOLDEN AMPERSAND HOME HERMIT WOODS WINERY HUMAN ANIMAL SUPPORT SERVICES

HERMIT WOODS WINERY

12 14

NH HISTORICAL SOCIETY WAYFARER COFFEE ROASTERS

I RESCUED A HUMAN TODAY:

THE TRANSFORMATIVE POWER OF RESCUE WORK

NIGHT SHIFT STONEWARE TRANSIENT CONSULTING

NON-HOLIDAY WINTER CURB APPEAL IDEAS

A WHALE OF A TALE:

TWO DOGS, A SEAGULL, AND A GUY WHO MAKES WHALES

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THE PURRFECT EMPLOYEE:

A NEW WORKING CAT PROGRAM PUBLISHED BY:

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NEW HAMPSHIRE HUMANE SOCIETY EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

CHARLES STANTON CHARLES@NHHUMANE.ORG

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

WAYFARER COFFEE ROASTERS AND NIGHT SHIFT STONEWARE

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NATIONAL PROGRAM SPOTLIGHT

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TAILS THROUGH TIME:

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NEW ENGLAND SOCIAL:

TONY MATOS, PRESIDENT

TIM JAMES EVERETT, VICE PRESIDENT RAY BOELIG, TREASURER SAMANTHA DURFEE BRIAN EISENHAUER BENJAMIN J. WILSON COVER IMAGE: MAURA MCEVOY, NY PHOTOGRAPHER AND ONE OF THE CREATORS OF “THE MAINE HOUSE” BY VENDOME PRESS

NEW ENGLAND PET & HOME

LOCAL LOVE:

HASS: HUMAN ANIMAL SUPPORT SERVICES EXPLORING NEW ENGLAND’S PET HISTORY UNIQUE EVENTS SUPPORTING ANIMAL WELFARE

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FOREVER HOME DECOR:

INTERIOR DESIGN IDEAS WITH PETS IN MIND

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LETTER TO WILD:

HEALING AFTER THE LOSS OF A PET

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ANIMAL WELFARE PLANS FOR 2021

A WOMAN’S PLACE

IS IN THE HOME (STEAD) NEW ENGLAND WOMEN WHO REMOVED is

THE SHACKLES OF GENDER EXPECTATIONS

In each issue of New England Pet & Home, we dedicate significant time and space to highlight beautiful homes, love for pets, diversity of families, and we use this publication as a platform to learn more about ourselves and each other. We also enjoy the opportunity to celebrate the greatness of New England’s rich heritage.

For this issue, we are excited to honor Women’s History Month by acknowledging some of the incredible New England women who have been trailblazers despite what society may have tried to dictate at the time. The power of womanhood is boundless and is even more impressive when that power is exerted despite societal oppression and expectations exclusively related to gender.

With that in mind, we were thrilled to be introduced to a woman who embodies all the philosophies we hold dear – a love of home, pets, beauty and compassion, history, as well as an evolved and inclusive world view. Kris Casucci is an elegant and inviting force in so many ways. Her home, Walker Homestead, is a 1698 Colonial Saltbox house which is a traditional New England style with one story in the back and two in the front. A sought-after event venue, recognized antiques sales space, and numerous seasonally accessible gardens, Walker Homestead houses an eclectic group of well-loved animals of many kinds.

Casucci shared, “I’ve always had lots of animals around. We had five cats when I was growing up and my first word was ‘cat’. Animals provide so much comfort and companionship to me. They are some of my favorite friends and I can’t imagine not having them in my life.”

Kris and her husband Paul have been parents to many strays, adopted pets from friends and coworkers, provided homes for barn cats and feral cats, and almost always have livestock as well. The current family centerpieces are four cats (though Kris is allergic) and an Akita/ Pyrenees/ Border Collie mix named Fiona (Fifi).

A lifelong appreciator of old things, Kris drew pictures of colonial homes as a child. She always wanted a colonial saltbox home. Her professional life started as a real estate title examiner. With her love of antiquity came a proclivity for research. That plus her love of antique homes made Kris well-suited for the work.

The turning point came in 2007 with the economic crash which resulted in job loss for hundreds of thousands of people including Kris. She didn’t know if she would be taken seriously or even be competitive in the newly volatile workforce. She and Paul shared countless discussions, sleepless nights, and circular thinking as they worried and wondered about the future.

“As a woman in my 50s at the time, I felt the walls closing in. This wasn’t going to be easy and I needed to figure out how to work.”

Kris had always been passionate about homes, antiques, and gardening though she had yet to envision how to weave those things together into a legitimate profession. She certainly hadn’t anticipated trying to undergo a career change in her 50s during a national economic crisis. Kris and Paul clearly have such a special bond and their support of one another didn’t waver despite the circumstances.

The Casuccis had already been searching for their dream home and, in the midst of a national crash, their search resulted in the acquisition of an amazing home and property. With ample space for selling antiques, a guest house turned into a garden shop as well as several event spaces, their 2009 purchase couldn’t have come to the couple at a more perfect time and it provided a path forward.

“We had looked for five years and had seen so many houses when along came Walker Homestead! It is a 1698 colonial saltbox home in Brookfield, Massachusetts. There are additions to the house and the last was completed by 1750. It was what I had always wanted.”

An added connection to the home is that Kris had a childhood imaginary friend named Sally Walker. For so many reasons, Kris knew immediately that she wanted to live in this house. So, Kris and Paul became Proprietors of Walker Homestead.

Not only lovers of and advocates for animals, Kris and Paul were now surrounded by expansive gardens as well as historical artifacts and treasures that reflected their love of nature, history, and antiquity. Those passions inspired Kris to share her inspirations and mentors: Adelma Simmons, Hannah Davis, Nina Fletcher Little, and Lura Woodside Watkins. Era-defining, role-defying women pioneers!

Louisa May Alcott: I am not afraid of storms, for I am learning how to sail my ship.

WAYS THEY INSPIRE US “Aunt Hannah” Davis (1784-1863) was the epitome of self-made during one of the most challenging and transformative times in American history. Hannah was a resourceful and beloved woman who made, trademarked, and sold the country's first wooden bandboxes. After the death of her parents, Davis established a bandbox factory in Jaffrey, NH - designed by a woman, for women, and hiring female employees knowing many could not find work elsewhere. Today, her bandboxes are highly collectible and can be found in museums across the country.

Lura Woodside Watkins (1887 -1982) was a historian and researcher focused on early New England crafts including pottery, glassware, and lighting. Also documenting the history of her home in Middleton, Massachusetts, she was the owner and caretaker of the historic Captain Andrew Fuller House. The Middleton Historical Society was also named in her honor. Her son, Malcolm, was a Curator for the Smithsonian Institute where her extensive redware collection resides.

Nina Fletcher Little (1903-1993) was an antiques collector, author, researcher, and pioneer and one of the most impressive influences in New England decorative arts and American folk art history. She lived primarily in Brookline, Massachusetts where she was born. Although Nina shared interests with her husband, she was unquestionably the driving force behind their collecting, preservation, and documentation efforts. Their Cogswell's Grant Historic House Museum in Essex, Massachusetts is among the most prestigious house museums in the nation.

Adelma Grenier Simmons (1903-1997) was a fierce, fiery herbalist, author, and researcher who was one of the most prominent herbalists in American history among mostly male counterparts. From Sheldon, Vermont, she is known for her vast knowledge of herbal and floral history and her far-reaching work sparked interest in herb gardening nationally and internationally. Dubbed "The First Lady of Herbs," she created Caprilands Herb Farm in Coventry, Connecticut. At five feet tall, she was an imposing figure with custom pillbox hats and coordinating capes!

Kris Casucci (1958) is an antiques collector and dealer, gardener, and entrepreneur who navigated a national recession through a strategic career shift.

A lover of New England, her family has been in Massachusetts for thirteen generations which provides a unique tie to her work. Co-Founder of Walker Homestead in Brookfield, Massachusetts and co-owner of Flying Pig Antiques in Westmoreland, New Hampshire; Kris rescues animals – the greatest feat of all.

SHUT THE FRONT DOOR! NON-HOLIDAY WINTER CURB APPEAL IDEAS

The holidays are over and we are barreling toward warmer weather though we New Englanders still have some chilly days ahead. After the holiday lights are down and there aren’t wreaths on everything that doesn’t move, it can feel tidy but can also be a bit bare if you can’t think of a way to liven things up.

It isn’t time for planters of flowers at the front door but many people would cringe at the idea that an evergreen wreath might stay up until May. We started asking ourselves what we should do to have our homes feel inviting during this time between the holidays and Spring. What gives non-holiday curb appeal that isn’t forcing full blown springtime color and overwhelming your wintry environment?

We asked contributors and readers for suggestions for what they liked. We hope you enjoy the ideas and find your own!

Thanks to Etsy, we have been introduced to a shop called Rusty Mill Farmhouse Finds. They have plenty of beautiful things and their oversized salutation signs certainly caught our eye! “Give your visitors the very best welcome yet!! This adorable ‘Oh Hello’ front porch wood framed sign will make all of your guests smile so big.” Find out more at www.etsy.com/shop/rustymill This fun display comes from a shop called Dandelion Patina. Black chairs, black lanterns filled with white ice skates, and rustic greens make for an instagram-worthy presentation and beautiful winter welcome!

Instagram: /dandelionpatina Blog: www.dandelionpatina.com Pinterest: www.pinterest.com/dandelionpatina Michelle is the owner/author of Dandelion Patina. She shares nature-infused living inspiration with a fresh coast farmhouse style.

MoneyPit.com with Tom Kraeutler shared, “Winter may be long and dark but your decorating scheme doesn’t have to be. With a few simple home improvements, you can brighten up your space and your attitude, and beat the winter blues! Some MoneyPit suggestions include: Spruce up the front door by polishing door hardware, rolling out a new doormat, and make sure porch lights have fresh bulbs at the maximum wattage allowed by the fixture.

Add winter color in porch containers, along walkways, or beds.

The above cream and grey beauty comes from www.Lushome.com and while it may look a little sparse compared to your visual holiday smorgasbord, we admit to gasping at this submitted idea. A personalized natural doormat, concrete planters, evergreen topiaries, and some concrete decorative spheres? This could happen any time of year. ALL year!

Sidenote: Inspired by the above, we MIGHT have giggled and clapped over the Chattahoochee River Balls from www.RoanandBlackHome.com. You could use these similarly to the above or, frankly, just put these fellas in a beautiful bowl and put them‌ anywhere! They really are just stunning.

Last but certainly not least, if you are even remotely crafty and endeavoring to be the next DIY expert on HGTV, everyone felt like this textural stunner was a fun idea. Laura at www.FindingHomeFarms.com has all the instructions for making what she calls a Fall wreath but this would be gorgeous for winter as well. Wood discs, glue, burlap ribbon, and some other accoutrement and you are all set for a beautiful and tasteful front door!

Submit ideas: Director@NewEnglandPetandHome.com

A PERFECT BLEND CREATIVITY AND COMPASSION AT HERMIT WOODS WINERY Have you ever met someone and known immediately that they were going to be an influence in your life in some way?

That is the nature of meeting with Bob Manley, the owner of Hermit Woods Winery. Bob isn’t just a wine guy. He is a creative visionary with boundless energy. Ideas flew in all directions and it was a joy to share some time.

Hermit Woods is listed as one of the top 500 Wineries in America according to Food & Wine Magazine but it certainly doesn’t stop at wine. In addition to a bevy of beverages, the location also boasts a high-class deli that would rival plenty of other swanky locations. Lots of incredibly tasty and creative options – it just happens to be approachable and unpretentious. Hence… a deli.

To top it all off, Hermit Woods is also in the process of developing a concert venue and listening room so Bob and some of his cohorts can bring world class musicians to the winery for performances of various kinds. Hermit Woods is the place to be.

Just when we thought it couldn’t get any better, the Hermit Woods team also gives a portion of hard cider proceeds to animal welfare and they have been quietly doing so for… years! These folks might be robots sent from the future!

Bob and his wife, Jerilyn Dolan, are not the only Hermit Woods masterminds.

This partnership also boasts area winemaker Ken Hardcastle and his wife Maya, and fellow magic-maker Chuck Lawrence. Kindred spirits indeed.

This gaggle of friends not only created a veritable oasis, but they also made sure Hermit Woods was integrally tied to animal welfare. Aside from donating cider sale proceeds for years, they are pet lovers and animal advocates as well. The big-hearted bunch is doing their part to not just make the world more delicious and more beautiful but more compassionate as well. Don’t believe us? Just ask Pinot and Noir – the ebony feline twins who are also connected to Hermit Woods.

If you have read the article in this issue about Working Cats, you know there are specific cats that might be very friendly but are well-suited to having a job of some kind. They might be more independent than your typical lap cat. Bob and Jerilyn adopted Pinot and Noir from the Humane Society (yay for rescuing!) and these two beauties were wandering the winery and calling it home. They were a little shy and would only occasionally show their faces, but they were a highlight of the Hermit Woods experience. At the time, the winery was closed two days weekly during the winter. Bob and Jerilyn kept thinking about the kids alone and couldn’t stand it. Pinot and Noir were brought home and are grateful for a life with Bob and Jerilyn. It’s a perfect blend!

Bob graciously agreed to host one of the New England Social events this year and Hermit Woods continues to donate a portion of Hard Cider proceeds to the Humane Society. Most importantly, we think Pinot and Noir might be the luckiest cats in New England. Find out more at www.HermitWoods.com

I RESCUED A HUMAN TODAY Submitted by Janine Allen, Certified Professional Dog Trainer

Her eyes met mine as she walked down the corridor peering apprehensively into the kennels. I felt her need instantly and knew I had to help her.

I wagged my tail, not too exuberantly, so she wouldn’t be afraid. As she stopped at my kennel, I blocked her view from a little accident I had in the back of my cage. I didn’t want her to know I hadn’t been walked in a bit.

Sometimes the overworked shelter keepers get so busy and I didn’t want her to think poorly of them.

As she read my kennel card, I hoped that she wouldn’t feel sad about my past. I only have the future to look forward to and want to make a difference in someone’s life.

She got down on her knees and made little kissy sounds at me. I shoved my shoulder and side of my head up against the bars to comfort her. Gentle fingertips caressed my neck; she was desperate for companionship. A tear fell down her cheek and I raised my paw to assure her that all would be well.

Soon, my kennel door opened and her smile was so bright that I instantly jumped into her arms.

I would promise to keep her safe.

I would promise to always be by her side.

I would promise to do everything I could to see the radiant smile and the sparkle in her eyes.

I was so fortunate that she came down my corridor. There are so many more out there who haven’t walked these corridors. So many more to be saved.

At least I could save one.

I rescued a human today.

#NewEnglandAdopts

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Janine Allen is a Certified Professional Dog Trainer. Her passion is working with people and their dogs. She provides demonstrations for those who have adopted shelter dogs, lends email support to adopted dog owners that need information beyond Training Support Pages, and aids shelter staff and volunteers in understanding dog behavior to increase their adoptability.

#NewEnglandAdopts

A WHALE OF A TALE

two dogs, a seagull, and a guy who makes whales Arguably one of the most sought-after locales on the east coast, Cape Cod is a dream for anyone who loves time by the water and is drawn to the charm of New England life.

The quintessentially New England vibe is multiplied ten-fold when exploring the beauty of the Cape and all it has to offer.

From the 40 miles of nationally protected seashore to basking in the charm of Nantucket which was founded by colonists in 1659, and getting the obligatory and highly enjoyable tour with Art's Dune Tours from Provincetown; it doesn’t take long to realize why this magical part of the New England coastline is permanently etched in the hearts and minds of visitors and locals alike. It’s more than a destination, it’s a lifestyle.

There amongst the many visitors and the nation’s luckiest people who are able to live at the Cape, we found Dave Turner and we are favorably changed by him. Dave is an eclectic and charismatic man who welcomes the world with his incredible whit, contagious laugh, and remarkably informed and intelligent humor. We find it impossible to imagine that any other one-hour conversation could include animal welfare, the state of the economy, national security measures, art gallery fees, New England life, preferred carving techniques and tools, and a love of hockey. And it all happened effortlessly. That is the magic of Dave Turner and the Wooden Whale Company of Cape Cod. Dave is a recognized treasure of the Cape and has been featured numerous times in New England magazines and blogs because of his work. Dave makes whales. If you are a follower of Clark Voorhees and Clark Vorhees Jr, you know the folk art style that is so integrally connected to New England. Voorhees Sr. and Jr. were both artists and the whales that resulted from their love of New England have popped up in interiors throughout the country. Dave took the idea and aesthetic farther. Master carving and craftsmanship, incredibly intricate and multilayered painting, and a remarkable balance of true art and whimsy. There is no pretense in the beautiful creations nor in how you obtain one. Dave explained, “People just call, text, or connect through Instagram. I don’t have an agent and I don’t really have a retail outlet. People have offered but they want to markup the prices and I would rather just have the work be buyable.” Dave produces 18-20 whales per month and he almost always has a waiting list. He works on numerous whales at the same time so there are always a variety of whales around at various stages of completion. Dave’s beautiful waterfront home has more than just whales though.

Opposite page: Carved whale by Dave Turner.

Instagram: @TheWoodenWhaleCo

Dave shares his life and home with an entourage of adoring fans. Vivian and Bob are Dave’s two black labs. “I have always drifted toward labs because they are goofballs. I have had lots of pets over the years and I don’t know how I would live without them. When I am away from them, I feel like something is missing. Why isn’t something bumping into my knees as I walk around?” Dave also became the caretaker and friend for Gill(bert), a seagull who shares space with the rest of the crew. Dave shared about the first meeting, “I’ve had Gill for about fourteen years. My place is waterfront on the harbor and Gill showed up one night with a hurt wing.

Follow Dave Turner and his Wooden Whale Company on Instagram at @thewoodenwhaleco

My heart breaks when I see an animal in any kind of distress. I didn’t know what else to do so I placed spotlights on him to keep predators away through the night and I kept watch on him. I started feeding him and gave him water. A few weeks later he was getting better and had started to fly again but he never left.” Gil found a new home with Dave.

Now completely comfortable as the Seagull-In-Residence, Gil bangs on the window with his beak when it is time to eat.

Luckily for all of us who follow Dave’s beautiful work, he can deal with those hilarious distractions with ease and his work is all the better for it. Like any artist and creator, Dave’s work is richer and more fulfilling thanks to the life he leads. People say art is only as powerful as the life that has created it. If so, Dave has some serious batting power!

People all over the world clamor for a Dave Turner whale and are elated to receive one.

“So beautiful! The attention to detail is just extraordinary!

Thank you so much, Dave! This is my new favorite heirloom!”

“My whale makes me so happy! I ordered a 4-foot version and it is just beautiful.”

You can find mass-produced versions of these, but you can tell that this is created by hand and is custom. I feel like I have the Cape right here at home!

Prior to trading in an office for a woodworking shop, Dave was working in Washington DC for the Secretary of Defense. He has traveled quite a bit but says without hesitation that New England is home and he knew he wanted to return. “Nowhere else I have been is quite like Cape Cod. All my favorite people and favorite things are in New England.“

This Page: Client Images and Dave’s pets.

Opposite page: Dave Turner and his amazing work.

Dave and his entourage have such a funloving existence. His energy and passion imbue every aspect of his work and it resonates throughout his home. Dave’s life has been filled with the unconditional love of many animal companions. The current tribe composed of labs and a seagull certainly brings abundant energy as well. Vibrant creativity shows clearly in how Dave communicates and in the way he sees and engages with the world.

Through his Wooden Whale Company of Cape Cod, Dave’s hobby turned passion fills homes from New England to New Zealand and beyond with his exuberant joy and immense talents.

If you have an interest in acquiring a Dave Turner carving, each is custom-made based on the order and there is almost always a waiting list. Charles Stanton, Executive Director of the New Hampshire Humane Society is one of Dave’s most recent clients purchasing a massive 4-foot whale! NH Humane will also be acquiring a whale for an auction later this year.

It is always so nice to find kindred spirits who do good things and it was a distinct pleasure to share some time learning about Mr. Dave Turner of Cape Cod and his Wooden Whale Company. All Dave’s many creatures (wooden and otherwise) are fortunate to share space with him.

Follow Dave Turner and his Wooden Whale Company on Instagram at @thewoodenwhaleco

THE PURRFECT EMPLOYEE A NEW WORKING CAT PROGRAM COMING TO THE NEW ENGLAND REGION Sophocles said, “Without labor, nothing prospers”. More recently, Stephen King was quoted, "Talent is cheaper than table salt. What separates the talented individual from the successful one is hard work."

Work. It is an essential and necessary thing. It provides us with creature comforts. Most people know about Service Dogs or Emotional Support Animals, but fewer people have likely heard of “working cats”. Certainly not a new concept, a working cat is a cat that is not well suited for an indoor-only lifestyle. Working cats thrive in environments with more space, a job, and prefer less pressure from humans and other pets.

With that idea in mind, New Hampshire Humane Society has implemented a working cat program as part of their new Community Response Initiative: a series of programs aimed at creating new ways the Humane Society can be of service to the New England region.

The Working Cat component of these plans will place fully vetted cats into safe, independent living settings and aims to find adopters who are looking for natural rodent deterrents for enclosed properties such as barns, churches, factories, or other facilities.

That is where the Working Cat program comes in. Candidates for the program usually fall into one of the following categories: • Under-socialized cats who prefer to keep their distance from humans.

• Feisty cats that play too rough when kept indoors only.

• Cats whose litterbox habits make them unsuitable to live indoors (and for whom medical issues have been ruled out).

• Cats who previously lived as outdoor pets.

• Cats who previously lived as indoor/outdoor pets.

Cats are specifically selected to be part of a working cat program based on behaviors they exhibit. Cats that would do well as indoor-only pets will not be included in this type of program. Our priority is to find as many viable pet placement options as possible.

The New Hampshire Humane Society team shared about the program, “New Hampshire Humane Society focuses on adoptable, domesticated animals and that is an intentional decision since there is so much need. We work with partners to save and rehome pets that could otherwise be euthanized at other shelters. This is the first component of our new Community Response Initiative which establishes a formal Community Cat Program to help more strays and feral cats get to a safe environment. As part of those efforts, the Working Cat Program allows us placement options for appropriate working cats. We couldn’t be more thrilled to be able to do this for and with our many municipal partners and this is one of many services we are creating or expanding.”

The Working Cat Program will adopt out cats that are spayed or neutered and fully vaccinated. While donations are welcome and crucial to animal welfare organizations, the adoption fees will be greatly reduced or waived for working cats. In exchange for their services, the cats are to receive a place to live, food, water, and vet care as needed.

This program launches later in 2021 and will be a permanent fixture at New Hampshire Humane along with a bevy of new or expanded programs which can be found on this magazine’s back page. This program is made possible thanks to the Alex and Elisabeth Lewyt Charitable Trust, For more information on programs and services, visit our friends at www.NHHumane.org.

"A lot of hard work is hidden behind nice things."

Ralph Lauren

Karen and Ben (on left & right) are co-owners of Wayfarer Coffee Roasters. Born and raised in Seattle, Karen moved to New Hampshire in 2008. She couldn’t find coffee she loved, so she started roasting it. She sold home-roasted coffee beans at the Farmer’s Market and to friends and family. After a few years, she wanted to take the leap of faith and open a roastery cafe. She and her husband, Reuben (pictured center), joined forces with their friend, Ben, to open Wayfarer and turn the coffee dream into a reality. Pet lovers and animal advocates, the Wayfarer team is part of the New England Local Love Campaign. www.wayfarerroasters.com We support businesses that support animal welfare.

Miranda is owner of Night Shift Stoneware. Selfdescribed as a mother first and a registered nurse by profession, she loves to create and use her hands. Nearly twenty years after her first experience with clay, she was given the opportunity to make mugs for Wayfarer Coffee Roasters so she turned her basement into a studio. The amazing community response was so energizing that she moved to a more suitable studio space. She now focuses on creating place settings and dinnerware. A pet lover and animal advocate, Miranda and Night Shift are part of the New England Local Love Campaign. www.nightshiftstoneware.com We promote businesses that support animal welfare.

HASS:

HUMAN ANIMAL SUPPORT SERVICES

Human Animal Support Services (HASS) is an international coalition of animal services leaders actively engaged in transforming the sheltering system through innovative programs and services. Two partners in the process are here in the heart of New England at New Hampshire Humane Society in Laconia, New Hampshire and Potter League For Animals in Middletown, Rhode Island. NHHS Executive Director, Charles Stanton, and Potter League CEO, Brad Shear, have been appointed to the Program Sustainability Group and Stanton is assisting in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion discussions as well. Both are implementing evolution here at home with a restructuring of how they do business and provide service. With the many national groups on board, HASS partners embrace key strategies for making positive, immediate change and being of greater service.

HASS is based on elements that each shelter will implement in their communities. HASS provides policies, tools and training to create meaningful change, reducing intake and housing most pets in homes, not kennels. Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, caring people across the US and throughout the world have enthusiastically adopted, fostered,

donated, fed, and otherwise cared for animals in need. HASS provides a path forward.

HASS aims to create critical engagement among animal welfare organizations to better address the modern needs of communities when it comes to animal services.

ELEMENTS OF HASS Lost Pet Reunification: The organization operates a comprehensive lost pet reunification service to successfully get roaming pets home without having to enter the shelter system.

Pet Support Services: Pet owners can access pet support services including housing, medical and behavioral support, & food and supplies to help keep the family together.

Supported Self-Rehoming: Pet owners who can no longer keep their pets are given tools to safely and quickly rehome their own pets with ongoing support from the shelter.

Role of the Shelter: The core functions of the physical shelter are to provide emergency medical care and short-term housing for pets with urgent needs and to ensure public safety and public health priorities are met.

Intake-To-Placement: Pets physically entering the shelter have outcome pathways identified before or at the time of intake, so in-shelter length of stay is reduced.

Field Services and Public Safety: Animal control and field services protect public health and safety, enforce animal cruelty and neglect laws, and aim to address the root causes of animal problems. They provide support, information, access to care, and resources.

Community Partnerships: Human social services agencies, veterinary practices, rescue groups and other community partners work closely with the animal services organization, treating people and animals as a family unit.

The Foster-Centric Model: Most pets who enter the shelter are placed in foster homes within hours or days of arrival and foster pets are adopted directly from foster homes.

Remote Customer Service: Customers can reach the organization quickly and easily using remote technologies like text, phone and web chats.

Case Management: Animal services personnel serve as case managers, helping people keep their pets; providing resources and support to struggling pet owners; assisting owners who need to rehome their pets, and helping people find missing or lost pets.

Volunteer Integration: Volunteers are engaged in every area of operations and play a key role in implementation and creation of HASS.

LEARN MORE AT WWW.HUMANANIMALSUPPORTSERVICES.ORG

A PARTNERSHIP WITH HISTORICAL SOCIETIES THROUGHOUT NEW ENGLAND

T A I L S T H R O Uexploring G Hnew england’s TIM E pet history New Englanders tend to adapt love of and time with pets based on our four unique seasons and how we engage with one another. Whether a Fall foliage hike with pups through the White Mountains, cat cuddles in Vermont during Spring showers, or Summer dog walks through Boston’s quintessentially “New England” brownstones in Back Bay or Beacon Hill; our love of nature and animals provides a strong sense of place for those of us fortunate enough to call New England “home”.

New England Pet & Home reached out to historical societies in the New England region requesting images and information related to pet history. The responses have been extraordinary. Each issue of NEPH will feature images submitted to us by one of our new partners as a way to share a love of pets and explore the rich history of our region.

The opposite page displays the continuation of this exploration of New England’s history as an intensely pet-loving region. Pictured is Chinook (1917–29) who was the foundation sire of a new American dog breed, the first breed to have originated in New Hampshire.

Arthur Walden (1875–1947) of Wonalancet crossed a mixed-breed dog with a Husky, and a litter was born on January 17, 1917. He named a pup from the litter with the most stamina and intelligence “Chinook.” Walden and Chinook introduced dog sled racing to New Hampshire. Chinook led the first sled dog team to climb to the top of Mount Washington and was lead dog on Commander Richard E. Byrd’s first Antarctic expedition, moving supplies to its base camp, “Little America.” On that expedition, Chinook wandered away and was never found. Chinook was established as New Hampshire's state dog in June 2009. Walden inscribed this photograph of himself with Chinook to a friend in 1932. Image courtesy of the New Hampshire Historical Society.

This photograph is part of a collection of more than 250,000 photographic images preserved in the collection of the New Hampshire Historical Society. Founded in 1823, the Society is an independent, nonprofit organization dedicated to saving, preserving, and sharing New Hampshire history. Nowhere will you find a more extensive collection of objects, archives, and photographs related to the state's history. The Society shares these vast collections through its library, museum, website, publications, exhibitions, and youth and adult educational programs. In 2019, the Society launched a new online educational resource for students and educators called “Moose on the Loose: Social Studies for Granite State Kids.” Located in downtown Concord, the Society’s 1911 building is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The New Hampshire Historical Society is not a state-funded agency; all of its work is made possible by membership dues and contributions. For more information about the New Hampshire Historical Society’s collections, programs, and services, visit nhhistory.org.

Motherhood is tough. If you just want a wonderful little creature to love, you can get a puppy. Barbara Walters

NEW ENGLAND SOCIAL: New England is a foodie region like no other. We love to get around a table (when public health standards allow) and get to know our community – food, wine and brew, neighbors… no one is a stranger if an opportunity presents itself. That’s New England.

New England Pet and Home and New Hampshire Humane Society will be launching New England Social – a dinner and event series supporting animal welfare which explores unique culinary, wine-making and brewing, and entertainment options in the region. All in special locations highlighting the beauty and uniqueness of New England.

Generous hosts, chefs, winemakers, and brew masters will open their homes or restaurants or join us on the road at other unique and quirky venues. Chefs will prepare diverse and eclectic treats as the focal point for each of these special experiences ranging from lavish rooftop parties to elaborate outdoor picnics in the wild.

UNIQUE OUTDOOR EVENTS + DESTINATIONS SUPPORTING ANIMAL WELFARE No two events are alike including an elaborate lunch at a historic working farm, a covered bridge party, a concert picnic at a winery, & more. New England Social will launch online March 1, 2021 – the first opportunity to purchase tickets for the events occurring throughout the year. These chic and fun outdoor events will range in size from 12 to 50 guests with social distance standards maintained. A laidback and inviting who’s who of New England is expected for these exciting new additions to the regional social scene.

Whether you are a guest, host, or chef, being part of the New England Social series means you are simultaneously giving, receiving, and enjoying. All proceeds support the crucial care provided to homeless and helpless animals. Join us as part of this tasty tradition for a cuddly cause. It will be deliciously compassionate. More info coming soon on facebook @nhhumane and @NewEnglandPetAndHome

Bon Appetite!

FOREVER HOME décor Every pet parent wants a beautiful home and works to balance beauty and function for their four-legged friends. Each issue, New England Pet & Home asks for suggestions related to pet chic ideas and managing daily life.

FROM GOLDEN AMPERSAND ART, ANTIQUES, & INTERIORS www.GoldenAmpersand.com or @GoldenAmpersandHome COORDINATED: Our pets are abundant in how they exist. They give lots of love and they luxuriate in naps and play time. The right pet beds and easily accessible toys are key! Coordinate the bed color with your room’s style and use textural baskets or bins for toys so it is easy to gather.

FROM THE WOODEN WHALE COMPANY Instagram: @thewoodenwhaleco SIMPLE COMFORT: Keep things simple and uncluttered. Clean up the pet hair but don’t obsess. They are all part of the family, so they should be able to go where they want and enjoy the home.

NEW ENGLAND PET & HOME READER SUBMISSION: RELAXED STYLE: I abide by the philosophy that great style should be approached in a relaxed way. If things are too rigid and controlled, the room is unapproachable. So take it easy. That throw blanket doesn’t have to be perfectly folded – just comfy!

FROM KRIS CASUCCI, WALKER HOMESTEAD www.WalkerHomestead.com NOSTALGIC FARM STYLE: I live on a farm. I’m not afraid of a little dirt. Pet hair is manageable so I focus on the sentimental things the beauty that utilitarian historic items can bring to a home.

Submit your suggestions to: Director@NewEnglandPetandHome.com

Image from Golden Ampersand Art, Antiques, & Interiors from the renovation of the Historic Enoch Page Home. Neutrals, and a mix of antiques paired with Dennis & Leen furniture is a perfect way to balance history, modern comfort, and classic style that even the fluffiest family members can enjoy.

LETTER TO WILD Mike Avery lives in Portland, Maine and is a retired engineer and relatively newfound pet lover. As a continuation of our “Letter to…” series, Mike agreed to share his story about Wild – a senior rescue cat who was Mike’s pet and companion for four years. Letter to… is a series of stories chronicling life with pet companions and is a journey of healing and remembrance after loss. Submit your story and images to: Director@NewEnglandPetAndHome.com

Dear Wild, You didn’t have the easiest of starts in life and our first meeting was a little awkward. I hadn’t known it but my neighbor, Renee, had decided to adopt a cat from Midcoast Humane Society in Brunswick, Maine. She called me even though I never answer my phone. She immediately followed up with a text.

“I need you to do me a favor.” You were the favor.

She had fostered with the plan to adopt and it wasn’t working with her other cat. You had been at the Humane Society for quite a while. Everyone said you were very likable but you were an older guy with some dental issues and you liked being on your own. We were basically twins. You had been named Lenny by the staff but I never liked the name Lenny. Your slightly standoffish disposition and your meow that sounded more like a battle cry led to a new name: Wild. Plus, Oscar Wilde had always been one of my late wife’s favorite writers, so it felt like a nod to her without having to go with “Earnest”.

Home you came with me. I kept to my guns that I was just fostering and that I had no need for a pet.

It makes no sense! Why would I want something else to clean up after? I have to buy special foods and there is no WAY I am buying toys for a cat! It wasn’t happening. Fostering, though, that is okay.

Just for a bit. We are twins, after all so I am just helping out a fellow misunderstood senior.

You were off in your own corner much of the first few days until you finally started to enjoy the sun at the front window. It was about two weeks later that you came up to my chair and snarled out something that only slightly resembled a meow. I looked down from my book and… I’ll be damned. You purred.

Well… you made a ghastly noise but you seemed to feel good about it so I assumed it was positive.

Weeks went by and you were doing pretty well. You followed me around at that point and I had to watch my step since you were hell bent on getting precisely in the path I needed to walk. We talked about that a few times and I think we both felt we walked away feeling superior to the other. It wasn’t a match made in heaven but I think we had started to reach some general understandings. It was much like being back in college and having a roommate. I was surprised that having other activity in the house again wasn’t awful. A widower after 34 years married, I was pretty set in my ways and I liked

consistency. You seemed fairly bound and determined to challenge my view of life. My late wife, Patrice, challenged me plenty of times and that proved to be a good thing so I could put up with you, too.

One day, at the grocery store, I walked by the pet aisle and stopped in horror. I had just looked at a fake mouse. It was a goofy thing with a bell on its tail and a tiny collar. WHY would a mouse need a collar? But the horror was that I thought to myself, “Wild would hate that damn thing.” When did I become the man who considers the stuffed animal preferences of his elderly rescue cat?! Late that afternoon, I did two things. I moved from foster to adopter and then I gave you the stupidest mouse anyone has ever seen.

You were old when I found you and we knew that meant you’d move along at some point. We had four good years which meant you were almost 18 when you started to really slow down.

One mouse toy had snowballed into many others and things thrown all over the place. You also made up your own toys from other random finds. The Pepsi bottle lid you commandeered was like the holy grail to you. That thing was always in your mouth and you looked foolish.

Loss is hard. I miss your friendship but I am grateful for it. Months later, I found the original mouse under the couch. I also kept the Pepsi lid.

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A SCENT GARDEN ENHANCING THE DOG WELLNESS PROGRAM

CAT TAILS YOUTH READING PROGRAM PAIRING STUDENTS WITH SHELTER PETS TO ENCOURAGE LITERACY AND SOCIALIZATION

SENIORS FOR SENIORS PET PROGRAM FINDING COMPANIONS FOR SENIOR PETS AND/OR SENIOR CITIZENS

PET THERAPY PROGRAM PETS AND FACILITATORS VISITING CARE FACILITIES AND COMMUNITY CENTERS

WALKING TRAILS UPDATING ON-CAMPUS TRAILS AND ADDING PUBLIC ACCESS HOURS

GOING GREEN ALL INTERNAL OPERATIONS WILL BE 100% PAPER-FREE BY THE END OF 2021

HUMANE EDUCATION PROGRAM OFFERING NEW ONLINE & IN-PERSON PROGRAMS FOR YOUTH AND ADULTS

LOVING LOCAL INITIATIVE CELEBRATING REGIONAL BUSINESSES THAT SUPPORT ANIMAL WELFARE

B A T H I N G, G R O O M I N G, A N D T R A I N I N G NEW WAYS TO PROVIDE ONGOING CARE TO YOUR CANINE FRIENDS

NEW ENGLAND SOCIAL OUTDOOR EVENTS SUPPORTING ANIMAL WELFARE PROGRAMS

SAFE HARBOR PROGRAM PET SUPPORT FOR DOMESTIC VIOLENCE SURVIVORS AND FAMILIES IN CRISIS

A NEW SENIOR PET HAVEN A PLANNED FACILITY WING PROVIDING QUIET AND CALM FOR ELDER PETS

COMMUNITY RESPONSE TEAM INCLUDING A WORKING CAT AND COMMUNITY CAT PROGRAM & OTHER RESOURCES & A RETURN TO MANY FUN PUBLIC EVENTS WHEN IT IS SAFE FOR EVERYONE. Despite many challenges, New Hampshire Humane Society remains determined and dedicated.

NEW HAMPSHIRE HUMANE SOCIETY 120+ YEARS

17 CITY PARTNERS

100,000+ PETS SAVED

www.NHHUMANE.org