® FALL/SUMMER 2015-16
Pets Live the Good Life, too… Grand Tapestry at Quail Springs Grand Tapestry at Quail Springs’ pet-friendly* luxury apartment homes are located at 14101 N. Kentucky Ave. in Oklahoma City, and boast unsurpassed resort-like amenities and services for
Pets
love Grand Tapestry At Quail Springs
residents. There are even options for housekeeping and meal preparation, and an available handyman service. With lush landscapes and inspired interiors, Grand Tapestry at Quail Springs
apestry at Quail Springs is a
nity designed specifically for
niors, but the designers haven’t
n about the residents’ pets.
(and you will, too!)
offers three great apartment options to choose from, and each features a contemporary design and an
a dog park on the premises,
trails and lots of open space.
open floorplan to
husiasm and excitement of the
maximize space.
esidents for Grand Tapestry at
So, if you’re
rings is clearly evident in their
looking for a modern, luxurious apartment
But, not surprisingly, the four-
home for you and your furry friend, see
nes haven’t stopped wagging
what Grand Tapestry at Quail Springs
s since their first visit. They
has to offer. You certainly deserve to live
e good life when they see it!
the good life—and so does your pet!
See article 52. Active seniors • page Active living For more information, visit TapestryOKC.com or call 888-706-0917.
Tapestry Community Manager, Donna, spends time with her furry friend, Gable at Grand Tapestry’s dog park with lots of open space & walking trails. *Breed and size restrictions apply.
INSIDE: Reflection Pointe Offers a Way for Pets and Owners To Be Together Forever, page 56
Valir’s HosPets Gives Pet Therapy for Hospice Patients, page 58
Dr. Otto Helps with Second Chances for Dogs and Inmates, page 61
It's All About PETS and the People They Own ... ! ® 2015-16
Your Healthy Pet Food Natural Market
Is your Dog or Cat always Itching and Scratching? Or constantly Licking its Paws? It may be a food allergy. We can probably help.
Dog & Cat Food Natural Market
* * * *
Locally Owned & Operated Friendly Knowledgeable Staff Open 7 Days/Week Best Selection of Healthy Foods & Treats * FREE Samples!
New Customers Bring in this ad and get
10% OFF Your First Purchase/
50b
It's All About PETS and the People They Own ... ! 速 2015-16
Handymen R’ Us Has Been Awarded
Angie’s List
Super Service Award for the Sixth Consecutive Year
by Vic Vickers
We do everything (almost!) Handymen R’ Us can be your one source for all your handyman and remodeling needs. We’re starting our 23rd year in business and feel blessed and thankful for all of our wonderful customers. No job is too small, as we do them all. Vic Vickers, Founder, pictured with his latest adopted girl, Penny, keeps up to date with continuing education (CE) training and has completed the courses for: • CAPS - Certified Aging in Place and • UD&B - Universal Design and Build offered by the Oklahoma State Home Builders Association of which Handymen R’ Us is a member. Visit our website handymanokc.com to read some of our testimonial letters from some of our valued customers. One testimony tells how one lady prayed that Handymen R’ Us would be able to build a ramp (when others couldn’t) for her husband coming home from rehab the very next day and how Handymen R’ Us answered that prayer. Vic says that “people are living longer these days and want to stay in their own home as long as they can. We can adapt their homes to allow them to “AGE IN PLACE.” One of the more common remodels that Handymen does is building a roll-in shower complete with bench seat. The shower floor is slightly below the bathroom floor so that wheelchair access is easy and the individual can then transfer to the bench seat.
Vic Vickers, Founder, and Penny
Handymen R’ Us is a Charter Member of the Oklahoma State Remodeler’s Council. Handymen R’ Us can also install a stair chair lift to go from the 1st floor to the 2nd floor and for safety, you don’t have to transfer from one seat to another; you ride it all the way! The 24-inch wide door leading to a lot of bathrooms will not allow a wheelchair to pass through, so Handymen R’ Us widens the doorway so that it will.
If, like Vic, you’ve adopted a pet, let him know when you call and since you’re a special person for adopting a pet, you’ll receive a discount on the work. Pet adopting “parents” are special people, according to Vic, and should be rewarded for their act of kindness!
CALL FOR A
FREE ESTIMATE 405-670-1733
www.HandyManOKC.com
or e-mail at handymanok@aol.com
It's All About PETS and the People They Own ... ! ® 2015-16
51
Luxury living at a comfortable price for you and your pet.
Grand Tapestry At Quail Springs is a community designed specifically for active seniors, and it’s small pet-friendly! Modern, luxurious apartment homes feature amenities and services that encourage living the good life with fewer responsibilities. NOW ACCEPTING RESERVATIONS
• • • • •
Amenities include:
Dog Park Walking Trails Fitness Center Movie Theater Outdoor Patio & BBQs
• • • • •
Heated Saltwater Pool Beauty Salon Business Center Shuttle Service Full Activity Schedule
Active seniors • Active living For more information, visit TapestryOKC.com or call 888-706-0917. 14101 N. Kentucky Ave., Oklahoma City
52
It's All About PETS and the People They Own ... ! ® 2015-16
Pets Live the Good Life, too… at Grand Tapestry at Quail Springs Grand Tapestry at Quail Springs’ pet-friendly* luxury apartment homes are located at 14101 N. Kentucky Ave. in Oklahoma City, and boast unsurpassed resort-like amenities and services for residents. There are even options for housekeeping and meal preparation, and an available handyman service. With lush landscapes and inspired interiors, Grand Tapestry at Quail Springs Grand Tapestry at Quail Springs is a community designed specifically for active seniors, but the designers haven’t forgotten about the residents’ pets. There’s a dog park on the premises, walking trails and lots of open space.
offers three great apartment options to choose from, and each features a contemporary design and an open floorplan to
The enthusiasm and excitement of the
maximize space.
human residents for Grand Tapestry at
So, if you’re
Quail Springs is clearly evident in their
looking for a modern, luxurious apartment
smiles. But, not surprisingly, the four-
home for you and your furry friend, see
legged ones haven’t stopped wagging
what Grand Tapestry at Quail Springs
their tails since their first visit. They
has to offer. You certainly deserve to live
know the good life when they see it!
the good life—and so does your pet!
Active seniors • Active living For more information, visit TapestryOKC.com or call 888-706-0917. *Breed and size restrictions apply.
It's All About PETS and the People They Own ... ! ® 2015-16
53
A new approach
to
Assisted Living... that puts you at the Heart of Home with Care by Anne M. Richardson
Nestled within a friendly, established neighborhood, each Redhaven Care Home is a place for residents to enjoy and call their own. Redhaven Care Homes are exceptional — each home offers assisted living services in a private residence designed as a safe, secure and non-institutional environment. Our team of professionals are focused on preserving culture, choices, and dignity for residents within a home environment. Redhaven Care Homes offer each resident a choice of a private bedroom for everyone including couples or roommates. Monthly fees are all-inclusive, including a plan for individual needs and services. 54
Transitioning individuals to a home within a neighborhood community provides: • Dignity, privacy & personal choices • Community, social interaction and activities • Shared living room • Family dining area • Outdoor patio and backyard with beautiful landscaped gardens, mature trees and nature • In-home barber/salon services by a licensed visiting beautician • Den with hearth • Laundry room • Safe room for weather-related events
It's All About PETS and the People They Own ... ! ® 2015-16
Services are provided that enhance homestyle living! • Home cooked meals prepared by professional staff in a family setting; three meals daily and snacks. • Professional, licensed caregivers 24 hours a day that will assist with medication administration, personal hygiene (bathing, dressing) and reminders for activities and meals. • All utilities (gas, water, sewage, and electricity) are included. • Landscaping and lawn maintenance to large areas. • Dietitians and consultants for pharmaceutical, physician care, and other providers available as needed. • Pet Therapy will be scheduled for residents at times. • Daily life enrichment programs and special events for residents, families and guests. Redhaven Care Homes has embraced the home-model approach to senior living and is one of the first to bring this concept to Oklahoma. All of our homes are designed to meet the needs of senior adults within an existing neighborhood. Pets are an important part of a pet owner’s life, so visiting pets are welcome. Also, Redhaven Care Homes will provide scheduled pet therapy for residents. Redhaven Care Homes will be licensed as assisted living communities through the Oklahoma State Department of Health.
Pet Therapy is a service Redhaven Care Homes schedules for residents. Each home is designed to accommodate 8-10 residents with a full range of services, capable of meeting each resident’s level of care they require to enhance this season of life. Please call to find out more about how Redhaven Care Homes is positively changing the quality of life for residents 55 and better!
At the Heart of Home Care
RedhavenCareHomes.com
(405) 818-8755 lkhomega@hotmail.com
It's All About PETS and the People They Own ... ! ® 2015-16
55
A special Memorial Garden forever ensuring the unique bond between a pet and owner
The first of its kind in Oklahoma, FUREVER FRIENDS is a special space where pets and pet lover’s remains can be buried separately or interred together.
by Brad Whinery
We recognize that pets are much more than “just pets.” They are cherished family members. Their devotion and unconditional love means they deserve to be memorialized in a dignified way.
This special memorial garden is designed to represent the unique bond between pets and their owners. They have always been by on our side in life, now they can be with you for eternity as well.
We have those same feelings for our beloved pets and know pet owners need a place to honor them just like anyone else in the family.
Coming in the fall of 2016, our website, reflectionpointe.net, will be able to give you the opportunity to visit spaces and take a virtual tour completely online of the entire gardens. Contact us for more information on this unique memorial garden today at 405-843-2099.
At Reflection Pointe, we’ve designed a special memorial cremation garden to celebrate the lives of pets and pet lovers. The first of its kind in Oklahoma, “Furever Friends” is a special space where pets and pet lover’s remains can be buried separately or interred together. Each space is provided a website that families can customize with pictures and memories. Visitors can view them online, while in the park, or in the comfort of their homes.
“Until one has loved an animal, a part of one’s soul remains unawakened.” -Anatole France
Contact us for more about this unique memorial garden today at
405.843.2099 OR REFLECTIONPOINTE.NET Cremation Gardens
56
10900 N. Eastern in OKC
It's All About PETS and the People They Own ... ! ® 2015-16
Finding Senior Housing for you and your pet can be complex, but it doesn’t have to be.
A Place for Mom is the nation’s largest senior living referral information service. Our Advisors are trusted, local experts who can help you understand your options. We do not own or endorse any senior living community. We are paid by partner communities, so our services are completely free!
Call (405) 546-3304 aplaceformom.com
"Properly trained, man can be dog’s best friend.”
The Pet Food Pantry of Oklahoma City Monetary and pet food donations are needed!
- Corey Ford Molly L. Gibb, B.A., Diplom I.B., G.C.F.P. Dog Handler & Guild Certified Feldenkrais Practitioner 303-589-9732 (c) or 405-848-5272 The Feldenkrais Method® is perfect for anyone who wants to reconnect with their natural abilities to move, think & feel. Whether you want to be more comfortable sitting, jogging, or playing with the grandchildren, these gentle lessons can improve your quality of life. Molly also uses Feldenkrais to enhance people’s relationships with companion animals through greater understanding of their role in their pet’s life. Learn more: www.feldenkrais.com
Providing pet food to /ow-income seniors, veterans and the homeless.
�w,l�,
� www.pfpokc.org (405) 664-2858
I
<Ii)__ ...
It's All About PETS and the People They Own ... ! ® 2015-16
57
HosPets
Valir Hospice Pet Therapy HosPets is Valir Hospice’s pet therapy program. This paw-warming program began in 2005 and continues to grow in popularity. Since its inception, Valir Hospice patients have received thousands of visits and tail wags from HosPets volunteers and their guardians, including trained therapy dogs and miniature horses. Well-behaved animals, of many breeds and sizes, that lend a calming presence are welcome to participate in HosPets. However, each dog must first successfully pass the Canine Good Citizen examination and the Therapy Dog International (TDI) test, which includes skills needed to interact with hospice patients such as maneuvering around walkers, staying at the bedside, and not jumping up. Additionally, the owner must also complete sixteen hours of Valir Hospice volunteer training.
Patients often benefit from pet therapy because they: • Experience a sense of comfort, warmth, and normalcy • Relax and release feelings of anxiety and depression • Focus on something other than their illness • Respond to a living touch • Feel motivated to complete tasks • Perhaps most important of all, look forward to the next HosPets visit!
To volunteer or schedule a time with HosPets, call us today!
(405) 609-3636
See additional article on page 19
Valir Hospice care | 405.609.3636 | (toll free ) 888.901.6334 | valir.com 58
It's All About PETS and the People They Own ... ! ® 2015-16
It's All About PETS and the People They Own ... ! 速 2015-16
59
We got your paws, beaks and tails covered! If you live in Oklahoma City or surrounding areas and need a trusted veterinarian to care for your pets – look no further. Healing Hands Veterinary & Wellness Center is a full service animal hospital offering services including:
• Vaccinations • Acupuncture • Chiropractic • Teeth Cleaning • Digital X-Rays • Spays and Neuters • Therapeutic Laser • We treat birds, exotics and Pocket Pets, too!
Call 405-525-2255 | HealingHandsVetCenter.com Home Care Assistance Celebrates the Many Benefits of Pet Ownership Our pets provide companionship, love and affection. Research also shows actual health benefits associated with owning a furry friend. Did you know...
Local Owners Greg with his dog Deleila and Melissa with Penny Lane.
405-285-4191 HomeCareAssistanceOklahoma.com
Pets help recovery from heart attacks – The National Institutes of Health found that dog owners had a higher survival rate after a heart attack than those who did not own dogs. Pets help reduce stress…more so than humans do. Pet owners are less obese – Pet owners are more active, since we want to keep our pets active! Pet owners have better mobility as they age – Adults aged 71-82 who regularly walked their dogs were more mobile, compared to those who did not own pets. (NIH research) Pets can help with cholesterol – The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention states that owning a pet can decrease cholesterol, triglycerides and blood pressure.
Enjoy your pets for your health and happiness!
Home Care Assistance - In home care for seniors…and their pets 60
It's All About PETS and the People They Own ... ! ® 2015-16
BRINGING HOPE & REDEMPTION Dr. John Otto’s “Friends for Folks” program brings hope to “unadoptable” pets, new owners and their prison inmate trainers
by Brian Richardson
The Lexington Correctional Center’s dog training program, “Friends for Folks,” was started in 1990 by Dr. John Otto, DVM, being inspired by a similar program started by Sister Pauline Quinn in Washington State in 1981. The program pairs “unadoptable” dogs from shelters and humane organizations with state correctional inmates educated as dog trainers. Over the course of 11months, the dogs live with their inmates and become so well trained that they can be placed with handicapped individuals, seniors, and veterans. The benefits for these new owners, as well as animals rescued from abuse, are obvious. Even more so are the tremendous benefits to the inmate’s rehabilitation.
“The answer isn’t to build more animal shelters, just like the answer to the growing prison population isn’t to build more prisons.” Dr. John Otto, D.V.M. Because of the great success of this initial program, Oklahoma has seen its second program established at Mabel Bassett women’s prison in 2014. This second program, “The Guardian Angels,” also teaches abandoned dogs basic obedience, but brings a positive change to inmates and people in need of a companion. Oklahoma is currently ranked number ONE for female incarceration per capita in the United States (134 per 100,000). Nearly 80% of Oklahoma’s incarcerated women are non-violent offenders, their presence in Oklahoma Correctional Facilities largely attributable to drug abuse, the distribution of controlled substances, prostitution and property crimes. Dr. Otto saw this program as the answer to many needs and problems; he volunteers his vet services for all the dogs in both programs. One dog, Star, helped inmate Marvin Perry become rehabilitated and paroled from a 50-year sentence. Marvin kept and cared for Star for four years, having trained her to become a search and rescue animal that assisted in locating runaway teens, escaped convicts, and even saved a lost Alzheimer’s patient’s life. After parole, Marvin went on to become one of Dr. Otto’s dearest friends and frequently spent time with the Otto family until he succumbed to ALS in 2012. Since Marvin’s death, Dr. Otto, along with his son Payton, wrote a children’s book about Marvin’s story titled, “Marvin’s Shining Star.” Dr. Otto sells this book through his clinic, the University Animal Hospital, and all proceeds go to support the program.
The children’s book, “Marvin’s Shining Star,” written by Dr. Otto and his son Payton, is available on amazon.com. All proceeds support Friends for Folks.
The majority of the funding comes from donors who believe in the program and the power of hope it provides. If you would like to help or learn more, please go to FriendsForFolks.org.
Everything that Friends for Folks, “Marvin’s Shining Star,” and Dr. Otto himself stand for is a second chance. John Otto, D.V.M. opened the University Animal Hospital in 1995 and operates his veterinary practice there, located at 1218 Lindsey Plaza Drive in Norman.
FriendsForFolks.org It's All About PETS and the People They Own ... ! ® 2015-16
61
At Home Instead Senior Care we match Atpassionate Home Instead Seniorwith Care, we caregivers passionate pet owners. Many of the Seniors we care for come match passionate caregivers with with an extra little creature to love. We passionate pet owners. Many of understand the importance of companionship. the come AsSeniors we carewe for care your for loved one,with we also care for anthose extrathey littlelove. creature to love. We have two We location to help meet At your needs in both metro and we rural understand the Instead importance of Care Home Senior match area’s. Please contact the office closest to you companionship. As we care for your passionate caregivers with passionate pet to answer questions and provide service. owners. Many of the Seniors we care for com loved one, we also care for those with an extra little creature to love. We they love. We 521-1963 have two locations to OKC - (405) understand the importance of companionship help meet needs in both metro Norman - your (405) 310-2756 As we care for your loved one, we also care and rural areas. Please contact those they love. We have two location to help meet your needs metro and rural the office closest to youintoboth answer area’s. contact the office closest to yo questions andPlease provide service. to answer questions and provide service.
OKC –OKC (405)- 521-1963 (405) 521-1963 Norman – (405)- 310-2756 Norman (405) 310-2756
62
It's All About PETS and the People They Own ... ! ® 2015-16