July / August 2016 Pocono Family Magazine

July/August 2016

The Pocono Mountains’ Magazine

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PET LOVERS ISSUE

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PHOTOGRAPHY & ART Andrei Protsouk Veronica Murray Lisa Newberry David Sandt James Smeltz James Chesnik Matt Siptroth Marlana Holsten Barbara Lewis William McKee Nancy Tully Linda Zak Vinzon Lee Eric Goins CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Roseanne Bottone Kimberly Blaker Kathy Dubin-Uhler Amy Leiser Suzanne McCool ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT Kristen Sebring The information published in this magazine is believed to be accurate, but in some instances, may represent opinion or judgement. The publication’s providers do not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of any information and shall not be held liable for any loss or damage, directly or indirectly, by or from the information.

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what’s insid

6

What’s inside

6

6 12

13

16 17 20

22

pet

• Dog’s Collar or Harness Safety • A Dog’s Plea

Education/Pets

• Dog Licensing in Monroe County

TRAVEL

• Highway Driving Reminders • 6 tips for packing for a Road Trip • Summer Car Care Tips

Healthy Living/ Pets 22 24 28 30

36

24

40

• Heartworm Testing • Health Benefits of Pet Ownership • Protect Your Pet from These Warm Weather Hazards • Manage Diabetic Pets at Home

home & Garden

• The Backyard Swiss Army Knife

community

• The Pocono Outdoors

parting shot 44

• Peaceful Lake

Cover Photo Courtesy of: MORGUEFILE

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July / August 2016 Pocono Family Magazine © | 5

Pet

dog’s collar IS YOUR

OR HARNESS

safe?

By: Lisa Kirschner, Owner of Sit, Stay 'N Play

Flat and Rolled Collars The most common collar is the flat or rolled collar that fastens with a plastic clip or a buckle. This type of collar is the most convenient to slip on and off and are handy because they can hold your dog’s identification, rabies, and license tags. Even though this type of collar retains its size for the most part, the collar can become a hazard. Dogs playing can get their mouth caught in the collar of another dog, causing panic in one or both dogs. As they struggle to get loose, the collar can tighten and dogs have suffocated as a result of this type of play.

6 | Pocono Family Magazine © July / August 2016

Photo Courtesy of Pixabay

Dogs come in to Sit, Stay, ‘N Play wearing a variety of collars and harnesses. While all of these collars and harnesses are sold online or in stores, some are not necessarily healthy or safe for all dogs. Let’s discuss some of them…

Choke Chains Over 20 years ago virtually all dogs who were in training wore choke chains. The traditional way these chains are used by professional trainers is to give a sharp jerk— strong enough to make the dog stop what it’s doing and do something else. For instance, if the dog starts to sniff and pull on a walk, you quickly brace yourself and give a quick yank in the hopes that the dog feels it enough to stop pulling.

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The idea is that once the dog knows he’ll get a strong correction when he misbehaves, you don’t need to continue to give strong corrections often; a light correction may be good enough because it’s a reminder that a stronger, more painful correction can occur.

The problem with choke chains is that most people use them ineffectively. Seasoned trainers know that dog’s feel the correction more if you can keep the choke chain up high, right behind the ears. The first thing a seasoned professional trains is the correct way the choke goes on. It needs to form a “P,” with the tail of the “P” on the same side as the handler. You can tell right away when a force-based trainer isn’t good at his choke chain technique because he doesn’t even put the collar on correctly.

So why do we avoid the choke chain? Besides the fact that my philosophy of training is to focus on rewarding the dog’s good behaviors and removing rewards for unwanted ones.

There are many medical and safety reasons too. Firstly, strong yanking on the neck with a chain can cause health issues. If the force from a dog pulling on a flat collar raises intraocular pressure, imagine how high that pressure rises when you actually yank the dog with a thin chain.

The choke chain is notorious at exacerbating airway issues. It can worsen coughing in dogs prone to collapsing trachea, affects the ability of dogs with small tracheas, such as Pugs and Bulldogs, to breath. Additionally, dogs may develop neurological damage when the corrections are strong enough. The damage, called Horner’s Syndrome, can result in changes to the pupil in the eye and nerve-induced lameness in the front leg. Lastly, even if you don’t use a choke chain in the manner described above, choke chains should never be left on an unsupervised pet.

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July / August 2016 Pocono Family Magazine © | 7

They can get caught on something and tighten to the point where they strangle the panicked dog.

Martingale Martingale collars are like flat collars but they tighten when the dog pulls. Even though they tighten, they are generally not used for giving a correction the way a choke chain is.

Rather, they are used because they are less likely to slip over the dog’s head when adjusted correctly than a flat collar is. These collars should be adjusted so that even at their tightest they cannot accidentally strangle the dog.

This is one of our favorite collar types.

Prong Collar (Also known as a pinch collar) The prong collar is almost as old as the choke chain in terms of dog training correction tools. You don’t have to use as much physical force to get an effective jerk as you do with a choke chain. Although this product looks to some like a torture device, it may actually be safer in some respect than the choke chain. The pointy parts are spaced out so that the force is spread out across all of them. Overall, prong collars produce less pressure on the neck when jerked hard compared to the choke chain because the surface area of the pinch collar is greater. If you’re not sure about this, try it on yourself and compare it to the choke chain. You can try it on your arm or your leg. You don’t have to try it on your neck.

Although they may cause less pressure around the neck than a choke chain they do still increase pressure so they can still lead to all of the same issues that a flat collar and even a choke chain causes.

Owners who use the pinch collar may not use it with the strong yanks of a professional trainer. The general dog owner tends to just let the dog pull and because pulling is uncomfortable and even painful to the dog, the dog may pull less. When the owner does not use the pinch collar to give jerking corrections, there are still some important pitfalls that owners should be aware of. The biggest pitfall is that if the dog is fearful, say of another dog it sees, and it simultaneously feels the pain of the pinch collar, the dog may learn to associate the pain with the dog it fears and 8 | Pocono Family Magazine © July / August 2016

become more fearful of dogs. The second pitfall is that if the dog is highly excited, and wants to play with another dog and is lunging on the leash to reach the dog, the pain or aversive feeling they get from the collar can increase their excitement and arousal level. In other words it can cause them to bark and lunge more!

The Harness (An Alternative to a Collar) One of the most common alternatives to a collar is a harness. Veterinarians routinely recommend that dogs, such as pugs with their short noses, and miniature poodles with their propensity for collapsing trachea wear harnesses.

However, it’s important to pick the right one. In general we avoid harnesses that hook on the back unless you want to train your dog to pull a cart or a sled. These harnesses actually help train your dog to ignore you and pull you because when you pull on the leash to try to gain some control, they direct the dog’s attention away from you.

So we recommend a front-attaching harness and there are several types: • Premier Pet Easy Walk Harness®: This was one of the first front-attaching harnesses on the market. When the dog gets ahead and pulls, it redirects the dog’s attention back to you. So if the dog sees a squirrel and sprints forward and you decide to head the other way, your movement will help turn the dog around so that he’s facing the direction you want to travel. We routinely recommend this harness for dogs that need more directional control than a flat collar provides; however, for many dogs, this harness can alter their natural gait. It tends to hinder shoulder movement. As a result, limit its use in dogs that are competing in athletic sports. That same pressure on the shoulder that hinders shoulder movement can be a benefit in some cases where you might actually need to hinder the dog’s front end. For instance if the dog’s bigger than you and can potentially drag you down the road, this harness may help you keep him safe. Another option until you get this type of strong puller better trained is to use a head halter, which is discussed later.

• Walk-in-Sync®: This front-attaching harness was introduced more recently and comes with a leash and basic training system. Unlike the Gentle Leader harness, it has a strap that attaches between the front legs and over the back. As a result, it allows for unhindered movement of the shoulders. This makes it a better choice for dogs competing in sports than the Gentle Leader harness. It also provides better directional control than a collar but less directional control than the Gentle Leader Harness. Another factor to consider is that when you try to guide the dog in a new direction, the harness tends to guide from the strap that goes around the base of the neck rather than evenly, even when fitted carefully. This tightening varies based on the dog’s body shape.

• Freedom Harness: This front-attaching harness has similarities to both the Easy Walk Harness and the Walk-inSync Harness. It has a strap across the front like the Easy Walk but a strap between the legs like the Walk-in-Sync.

As a result it provides a little more freedom of movement of the shoulders than the Gentle Leader Harness, but it also provides more directional control than the Walk-in-Sync.

Additional control occurs because this harness comes with a leash that attaches to the front and to the back of the dog and when you pull on the leash it tightens the harness around the dog.

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10 | Pocono Family Magazine © July / August 2016

Head Halters We recommend head halters for those owners who want to speed up training and need help keeping their dog’s attention. Once their dogs are trained well enough, they may opt to switch to a different collar or to a harness. I specifically choose head halters that help you guide the dog’s attention towards you rather than those that just keep the dog from extending his head forward. Why would a head halter help? As with horses, the body tends to go where the head is pointing. Dogs can best pay attention to their owners if they are actually focusing on their owners. For instance, if a dog sees another dog and wants to pull and lunge, the owner can gently redirect the dog’s attention back to herself and then engage the dog in more appropriate and equally fun behaviors that they have practiced such as run after me and get a treat or play with a toy.

The down-side of the head halter is that you need to train dogs to enjoy wearing them and, while some dogs automatically walk nicely with the head halter, other dogs and their owners require some training. Most owners who start their dogs correctly on one of these head halters find that the relatively small time investment getting the dogs used to the collar is well worth it. For some dogs that time is only a few seconds to a minute of pairing the head collar with food. For other dogs a little practice every day for a week so that the owners are sure the dog loves shoving his nose into the halter on his own.

The next step in training dogs with a head collar is to train them that when they reach the end of the leash they are going nowhere. This is the tough part, it means the owner must hold perfectly still and avoid taking a step or even moving the leash-holding hand. Once the dog figures out that pulling harder does not work and instead steps back or turns to the owner such that the leash is hanging loose, then the owner can resume walking. Better yet, the owner can reward the dog with a treat so that dog comes all the way back to her and then they can resume walking forward.

It’s important that the dog learn that a tight leash and the associated pressure created means she should stop. If the dog is not taught this and tends to act impulsively, she may dart out after a cat or other object and hit the end of the leash with some speed. This type of accident could potentially cause neck pain or injury. Even in the emergency situation, if the owner is paying attention, they can prevent neck wrenching if they gradually tighten the leash rather than letting the dog dart forward on a loose leash so that she suddenly hits the end.

Gentle Leader head collar: is the most popular head halter for dogs.

So there you have it, an overview of a variety of common collars and harnesses. None is perfect. They are all just tools. Some are more likely to cause problems in your pet or may just provide a less than ideal match for your needs. In case you’re wondering which I prefer—ideally our dogs can walk on leash with the flat collar or martingale they wear regularly. But for those dogs that tend to pull and need more work, I tend to recommend a front-attaching harness. 

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Treat me kindly, my beloved friend, for no heart in all the world is more grateful for kindness than the loving heart of me. Do not break my spirit with a stick, for though I might lick your hand between blows, your patience and understanding will more quickly teach me the things you would have me learn. Speak to me often, for your voice is the world’s sweetest music, as you must know by the fierce wagging of my tail when the sound of your footstep falls upon my waiting ear.

Please take me inside when it is cold and wet, for I am a domesticated animal, no longer accustomed to bitter elements. I ask no greater glory than the privilege of sitting at your feet beside the hearth.

Keep my pan filled with fresh water, for I cannot tell you when I suffer thirst.

Feed me clean food that I might stay well, to romp and play and do your bidding, to walk by your side and stand ready, willing and able to protect you with my life, should your life be in danger. And, my friend, when I am very old, and I no longer enjoy good health, hearing and sight, do not make heroic efforts to keep me going. I am not having any fun.

Please see that my trusting life is taken gently so I may leave this Earth knowing with the last breath I draw that my fate was always safest in your hands. 

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12 | Pocono Family Magazine © July / August 2016

Education/Pets

Man’s Best Friend

Dog licensing in Monroe County

By: Amy Leiser, Executive Director Monroe County Historical Association

Photo: Brothers Milton and Ed Barry with their dogs in 1912. They are sitting on the front steps of their home at the corner of Lenox Avenue and Elizabeth Street in East Stroudsburg.

M

any Monroe County citizens, myself included, are dog lovers. We find companionship, security, protection, and comfort in the presence of our dogs. From sleeping in their owners’ beds to receiving up-to-date medical care, many dogs are indeed members of the family. One of the responsibilities of dog ownership is ensuring that our pets are properly registered.

Keeping a record of the domestic dogs in an area is not a new idea. The first record of a dog’s being licensed was in Holland in 1446, and the first evidence that dog owners were taxed for their pets was in Germany in 1598. Locally, licensing man’s best friend dates back to the late 1800s.

In 1897, 2136 canines were registered with an total of $1,068.00 paid to the County (although the Stroudsburg Times newspaper admitted that this could not have been an exact number of dogs within the county’s boundary).

Stroud Township had the most registered dogs at 259 while Delaware Water Gap had the least with 33 dogs.

Four years later, the front-page article of the August 24, 1901 edition of the Stroudsburg Times reported a peculiar anomaly; there were many male dogs and very few female dogs in Monroe County. In fact, according to the Monroe County Accessor’s reports, Price Township, Smithfield Township, and the Borough of Stroudsburg had no female dogs living in their municipalities. Ross Township had one, and Delaware Water Gap had two. Only three female dogs were reported in Jackson and Middle Smithfield Townships, and Hamilton Township had four. Eldred, Pocono, Price, and Tunkhannock Townships each boasted five female dogs. Paradise Township had seven dogs, and both Stroud and Tobyhanna Townships had one more than Paradise.

Chestnuthill Township had 12 registered female dogs, July / August 2016 Pocono Family Magazine © | 13

Man’s Best Friend

Coolbaugh Township had 15, and East Stroudsburg had 21 female dogs. Barrett Township had the most female dogs with 24. In total, records indicate that 2,203 dogs were registered in Monroe County – 2,075 were male, and only 128 were female.

The article suggested that scientists should consider studying the problem for there were numerous puppies in Monroe County but “where they come from is a mystery.” In a tongue-in-cheek manner, the article also suggested that perhaps dogs “grow on trees.” There really was no mystery; owners were taxed $1.00 for each female dog but only 50 cents for each male dog. In reflecting on this 1901 dog census and following the discovery of the lack of funds owed the County, the Monroe County Commissioners considered engaging a “veterinary surgeon” to help make the assessments for the following year.

“One hundred years ago, in 1916, the

Monroe County Commissioners were forced to take more serious action regarding dog licensing in Monroe County.”

One hundred years ago, in 1916, the Monroe County Commissioners were forced to take more serious action regarding dog licensing in Monroe County.

According to the January 17, 1916 minutes of the Commissioners’ meeting, “The Clerk was instructed to notify through the Press that all Dogs upon which Taxes were not paid by Feb. 1st 1916 would be Killed by the Constable’s of their respective Districts also to furnish Constables of the Several Districts with a list of Dogs upon which Taxes have not been paid.”

The clerk did as he was ordered and a 1.25 inch square notice appeared at the bottom of page 5 in the Morning Press newspaper. While this was a little shocking for this dog lover to uncover, the Monroe County Commissioners were simply following the laws of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.

14 | Pocono Family Magazine © July / August 2016

In 1893, Act 88 of the Pennsylvania Legislature established laws for the taxation of dogs. The law established that county commissioners across the Commonwealth were responsible for assessing, imposing, and collecting an annual tax on dogs and that the rate for female dogs should not exceed $4.00 and the rate for male dogs should not exceed $2.00.

The law also established that the taxes and fees be paid to the county or city treasurer and that a record of the owner’s name with a description of each dog be recorded. The reason for the tax was to create a fund in which damages could be paid to individuals whose sheep were killed or injured by one or more dogs.

The monies collected from enacting the 1893 law would support the necessary investigation of the complaint of the loss of sheep as well as the time spent filing the paperwork to submit a claim, the time of the magistrate, and the subsequent resolution of the case. If the owner’s dog was innocent, all charges were dropped. If the dog did maim or kill a sheep, the dog was to be killed, and the funds from the dog license tax were to be used to pay the farmer for the loss of his or her sheep.

Fourteen years after its enactment, the law was revised into what is known as the “Dog Law of 1917.” The amended law included compensation for livestock other than sheep and included liability for undocumented dogs. It read, “It shall be the duty of every police officer to kill any dog which does not bear a proper license tag which is found running at large.” The document defined “running at large” as “Strolling without restraint or confinement, as rambling, roving or wandering at will, unrestrained without anyone to hinder or direct them.” Also included were dogs that were found trespassing on someone’s property without their owner’s presence.

Records of 1918 show that the Monroe County Constables did enforce the 1917 Pennsylvania Dog Law. Printed forms were filled-out and submitted to the Monroe County Commissioners by each constable in each district. The “Constable’s Statement of Dogs

Man’s Best Friend

Killed” document gave the date of the constable’s action and listed both the name of the dog’s owner and the number of dogs killed. The form also included a record of the fee collected by the constable. Delinquent owners were charged $1.00 per euthanized dog and an additional 50 cents if the owner wanted the dog to be buried.

While negligent owners were penalized with a fine, it is very sad that the dogs were the ones who were truly punished. Thankfully, there exist only a handful of the receipts to document the actions of local constables performing their duty to enforce the Dog Law. In the Borough of Stroudsburg, 29 animals were destroyed.

Seven were killed in East Stroudsburg. The constable in Tobyhanna Township had to put down 14 dogs, and the officials in Eastern Coolbaugh dealt with four. One dog was euthanized in Jackson Township. Some of these dogs had owners; others were “unclaimed” or their owners were “unknown.”

Today, dogs are still required to be licensed. It is the law.

While unlicensed dogs do not receive a death sentence, owners of unregistered dogs face large fines and possible court expenses.

Licensing must be done through the Monroe County Treasurer’s office, and the rates are very reasonable.

And - licensing costs are now the same price whether the dog is male or female. A regular yearly dog license for a male or female dog is $8.50, and if the dog is spayed or neutered, the cost is $6.50. The annual rates are even lower for dog owners who are Senior Citizens or who are disabled. Prices haven’t increased much in one hundred years. Licensing our four-legged family members is one of the duties of responsible dog owners. 

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Special thank you to the Monroe County Archives for providing information for this article.

The Monroe County Historical Association is a nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving, promoting and protecting the rich history of Monroe County, PA. For additional information on the organization or on the information found in this article, please contact the office at (570) 421-7703 or e-mail at mcha@ptd.net.

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July / August 2016 Pocono Family Magazine © | 15

Travel

Highway Driving Reminders Now that the temps are getting warmer you will start seeing more construction on major highways and standard roadways. In order to keep yourself and others safe please read and share these important reminders before you head out on the road.

safe Travels Courtesy of North Penn AAA

Solid lines The use of painting solid lines, especially near oncoming ramps and construction areas, is popular in order to keep traffic flowing in the same lane without crossing back until you enter back into a dotted line area. The solid line was completed for a purpose so be sure not to cross lanes when you approach such areas. The line will eventfully go back to a normal dotted line so you can pass or change lanes as needed.

• Keep Right, Pass Left — Pass only on the left and don’t stay in the left lane for travel. If you intend to travel in the same direction for a distance be sure to move back into the right lane and only move to the left if you intend to pass.

• The “Steer Clear Law” — Drivers should move over or slow down for police, emergency responders, road crews and tow-truck operators. Police officers, emergency crews and those working to assist stranded motorists must be given a wider margin for safety.

The law requires motorists to move to a lane that is not adjacent to the scene of an emergency response, police stop or a tow truck picking up an abandoned vehicle.

If drivers cannot move over because of traffic or other conditions, they must reduce their speed.

• Headlights on, Wipers On — All vehicles should have their headlights and wipers on when operating in inclement weather. 

16 | Pocono Family Magazine © July / August 2016

6

Tips for

Packing the

Car for a Road Trip

Ah, vacation. Whether you’re heading to the beach or to the mountains, and whether your trip will take two hours or two days, you’ll need to do some advance planning on how to pack up the car.

1

Thanks to improved automobile designs and the convenience of gadgets, today’s road trips are generally more enjoyable than they used to be. Where you’re headed and who’s going on the trip will make a difference in how you pack. Babies require more equipment, and teenagers take up more room.

Both age groups will be miserable on a car trip if you’re not prepared.

Before you head out of town, consider these tips for packing the car.

How to Organize Your Luggage Since the capacity and storage space varies from car to car, the general rule of thumb is to put the heaviest things as far forward and as close to the floor in the cargo area as possible. The goal is to keep the center of gravity low, reduce the weight over the wheels and prevent the car from becoming top-heavy.

In a car without a trunk, lighter items stored on top of the bulkier baggage should be secured so they don’t fly forward in the case of a sudden stop. And don’t pile your things to the ceiling. The driver should be able to see out of the rear window. Keep essential items (diapers, coats, change of clothes) within reach, and don’t forget to take advantage of spaces under the seats.

July / August 2016 Pocono Family Magazine ©

| 17

24 In case of emergency

Let’s just assume that before you head out on a road trip, you’ve already taken care of the preventative maintenance tasks, including changing the oil, checking the tires, replacing fluids and making sure the “check engine” and other warning lights are not illuminated.

Despite all your planning and preparation, “stuff happens” so it’s best to be prepared. An emergency car care kit has the basics for addressing roadside emergencies, and many people find their cell phone and your AAA membership to be equally important.

Don’t forget your cell phone charger. (And by the way, AAA can also get you discounts at hotels and attractions, and is useful for maps and trip planning.)

3

Prepare a Car Safety Kit You never know what you’ll need and when, so experts recommend packing the basics in a roadside emergency kit, including: • First-aid kit • Fire extinguisher • Warning light, hazard triangles or flares • Tire gauge • Flashlight • Jumper cables • AAA membership card

18 | Pocono Family Magazine © July / August 2016

Snacks & Meals When the kids say they’re hungry or thirsty, it’s often code for “I’m bored.” Be prepared with a collapsible cooler of healthy treats. That’ll prevent you from making a pit stop for high-priced, salty or sugary snacks.

Bite size pieces of fruit, snack size bags of pretzels, animal crackers, and trail mix are nutritious and manageable choices. Choose bottled water and juice bags with straws for quenching thirst and reducing the chance of spills or dribbles. If you freeze the drinks in advance, they can help keep other beverages and food in the cooler chilly, and a melting drink takes longer to consume.

Gadgets for the Road The key to a successful road trip is to keep everyone entertained, especially when kids are involved.

The days of singing “The Wheels on the Bus” to keep everyone alert are over. Many minivans and SUVs come with built-in DVD players. But if yours doesn’t, you can buy one with two monitors that attach to the headrests. And don’t forget to pack the movies.

Handheld electronic games are also useful for passing the time, as are books on CD. If you’re tight on space, consider loading up an iPad with movies, books and games. Chances are everyone will want to get their hands on this versatile gadget, which even has maps among its many apps.

6

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Road Trip Games Despite the DVDs, handheld games, music and snacks, it always feels like it takes forever to get there. When your passengers start to get antsy, it’s the perfect time to pull out those games and activities that only work on a road trip, like the license plate game. Depending on their age, your audience, who at first may be reluctant to participate, will probably join in on the fun of games. The good news is that these engaging games don’t take up valuable space in the car.

They just require enthusiasm, imagination and brain power.

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Travel

Summer Car Care Tips to Keep Your Car in Great Condition Courtesy of StatePoint

For many drivers, the summer is the time of year when your tires hit the pavement most, and car care doesn’t take a vacation. Be sure your car is ready for all that mileage.

time. If you’re not allowed to wash your car at home due to regional laws or neighborhood rules, seek out a good drivethru wash and hand wax instead.

“A car that`s well-maintained is safer, cheaper to run, more reliable and can be worth more money at resale time,” says Brian Moody, executive editor of Autotrader.

Check and set your car’s tire pressure to the level specified in your owner’s manual or on the driver’s door sill. As temperatures warm up, the air in your tires can expand and that might impact the way the car handles.

To help, Autotrader editors are sharing “Simple Summer Car Care Tips” tips to get your car in tip-top shape for the busy driving season ahead: Wash and wax your car thoroughly. If you can afford it, have it professionally detailed. Direct sunlight can cause a car’s finish to become dull, but a thorough washing and waxing can also help keep your car’s paint and clear coat looking good.

It’s tempting to run the car through an automated car wash, but those big revolving brushes can dull the finish over

20 | Pocono Family Magazine © July / August 2016

“A car that`s well-maintained is safer, cheaper to run, more reliable and can be worth more money at resale time”

Be sure not to over-inflate the tires. While low tire pressure can cause the tire to heat up if it’s not rolling down the road properly, extreme over inflation can cause a blowout in high temperatures.

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Have a qualified mechanic do a visual inspection under the hood. If you’re comfortable doing this yourself, check for worn belts or hoses and make sure your coolant (sometimes called anti-freeze) isn’t too old. Coolant lasts a long time, but keeping track of when it was last changed, especially in older cars, can help you avoid overheating as the temperatures gradually climb.

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For better driving all season long, make sure your summer to-do list includes cleaning and maintaining your car. 

For more tips for keeping your vehicle in great shape whether it’s hot, cold, or rainy can be found at www.Autotrader.com.

July / August 2016 Pocono Family Magazine © | 21

PHOTO SOURCE: (c) AntonioDiaz - Fotolia.com

Healthy Living/Pets

Y

our dog is your best friend, and you take good care of him, making sure he gets quality food and exercise, immunizations and heartworm medication. Why, then, does your veterinarian also insist on a yearly heartworm test?

Heartworm

testing

What Every Dog Owner Needs to Know Courtesy of StatePoint

22 | Pocono Family Magazine © July / August 2016

Chances are, your veterinarian is following the advice of the American Heartworm Society (AHS), whose mission it is to lead the veterinary profession and the public in the understanding of heartworm disease.

“The AHS recommends annual testing for all dogs,” explains veterinary parasitologist and AHS board member Dr. Patricia Payne. “Heartworm is a devastating disease.

It is preventable and can be treated in dogs, but early detection is essential.”

Unprotected dogs are @ risk Along with testing, the AHS recommends year-round administration of heartworm preventives. Unfortunately, says Dr. Payne, far too many dogs do not receive this measure of care.

Almost two-thirds of dogs in the U.S. that are seen by veterinarians are given no preventives at all, according to studies conducted by heartworm medication manufacturers.

Among those on prevention medication, far too many are only given medication in spring, summer and fall, when the mosquitoes that transmit heartworm larvae are active.

Because weather is unpredictable and hardy mosquitoes can survive indoors as well as outdoors in protected areas, so-called “seasonal” usage creates ample opportunity for animals to unintentionally become infected.

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Another factor is human -- and animal -- error. “Pet owners who give heartworm medications year-round and on time are to be commended,” says Dr. Payne. “Even so, it is still possible for heartworm infection to occur The following are three scenarios that make heartworm testing a necessity for all dogs:

• Even the most diligent owner can forget a dose now and

then. “If you have medication left when your veterinarian reminds you that it’s time to purchase more preventive, it’s a pretty clear sign that you missed a dose or two,” says Dr. Payne.

•

Not all pills are swallowed, and not all topical medications are properly applied. If your dog vomits or spits out a pill when you aren’t looking -- or if a topical medication isn’t absorbed completely -- a pet may be less protected than you think.

•

Heartworm resistance is rare but real. “Owners can rest assured that heartworm medications are highly effective, but a few cases of heartworm strains that are resistant to common preventives have been documented,” explains Dr. Payne, adding that the issue is being studied by the AHS.

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The good news for owners is that heartworm testing is simple and inexpensive. “Your veterinarian can easily conduct this simple blood test during a dog’s annual or semiannual wellness visit,” assures Dr. Payne. “If your dog tests positive, treatment can begin. With a negative test result, an owner has the peace of mind of knowing that his or her pet has been protected for another year.” 

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July / August 2016 Pocono Family Magazine © | 23

Healthy Living/Pets 24 | Pocono Family Magazine Š July / August 2016

Health Benefits of pet ownership By: Samantha Thompson, VMD

July / August 2016 Pocono Family Magazine Š | 25

Dr. Sammie Last week I stepped into an elementary school to do a presentation with my golden retriever Whitney and faces of both adults and children lit up at the sight of a dog in school. Whit and I we were flocked by beaming faces and kids asking if they could pet her. If I had been there unaccompanied I would barely have gotten a passing glance from most, but my furry companion was the focus of all in her view. Reflecting on this moment reminds me of how many health benefits pets can bring to our lives.

“As I finish up my work I pile my dogs back into my vehicle and head home for another walk and wind down after the day.�

The health benefits start as soon as the day begins, my dogs get me out of bed in the morning and give me the impetus to get my daily exercise. They are motivation as I try to 26 | Pocono Family Magazine Š July / August 2016

hit snooze a couple more times I feel the stares of several canine sets of eyes watching for the first sign of movement.

So up I get and thanks to my dogs I get my hike in before the hectic day begins. As I hike I get not only cardiovascular fitness but the calmness and serenity within. As I take in the scenery and glory of the morning I reap the benefits of lowering my blood pressure and lifting any depressive mood that may linger in my brain.

I have the ability to take my dogs to work so as they come barreling through the door they bring smiles to others faces and spread their unconditional love to all they encounter.

Throughout the day, as stresses pile on, staff members reduce their own blood pressure by reaching down and petting the furry face sitting under their desks. The result is a happier, less stressful work atmosphere. Over lunch my staff is entertained by the antics of my pets as they beg for food and attention. The staff have more social interaction with each other as they laugh over my mischievous golden Peak as he tries to raid the garbage can or sneak a treat out of the fridge for himself. I go through the day seeing pets of all sizes and varieties and in every kind of situation and it

strikes me that I am blessed with one of the best professions in the world. As a veterinarian I not only keep pets healthy but through them I am also helping the pet owners live happier, less stressful lives through their own animal bond.

As I finish up my work I pile my dogs back into my vehicle and head home for another walk and wind down after the day. It is then dinner time and finally relaxing to catch up on emails and watch some TV and as the day comes to an end I reach over to stroke the furry heads laying beside me and feel surrounded by unconditional love. I realize just how lucky I am to be surrounded by fur kids and how fulfilled and healthier my life is thanks to them. Pets are the best therapy of every kind! 

Bio Samantha Thompson VMD or “Dr. Sammie,” as she is affectionately known is the owner and chief veterinarian of Pocono Peak Veterinary Center. She moved here from Kingston, England in 1979. She attended Drew University for her undergraduate studies and graduated from the University Of Pennsylvania School Of Veterinary Medicine in 1991. She started her journey working with large animals then her dream of opening up her own small animal practice was realized as Pocono Peak Veterinary Center.

Here she shares her extensive knowledge with her staff.

She understands that an educated staff can provide quality patient care and excellent customer service.

Dr. Sammie believes in raising healthy and socially welladjusted animals. Her free time is spent training and competing in Field Trials with her dogs, Whitney, Climber, Peak, Payton, Jesse and Justice. She also shares her home with her cats Biner and Ralston.

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Healthy Living/Pets

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Protect

Your PeT from These Warm Weather Hazards

W

Courtesy of ASPCA

ith more time to play outside, sunbathe and run through sprinklers, it’s no wonder our pets love warm weather. But with summer approaching, the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (APCC) wants to inform you about some of the most common hazards they handle every year. To protect your pets this season, keep an eye out for these five warm weather dangers.

Insect Stings & Bites: Our pets are curious and

want to explore everything they can, but unfortunately they don’t always realize that bugs, bees, ants and other critters are best left alone! In some cases, you may not see the sting or bite occur, but you will see the results: a yelp or a cry, followed by swollen eyes and muzzle. To prevent bites from occurring, scout your yard for areas of trouble like ant hills, beehives and wasps nests and treat them now. Have your pet avoid those areas, and always keep an eye on what they’re doing outside.

Yard Products: Lush green grass is a fun place to play, but some healthy lawns are full of chemicals like weed killers, pest control products and fertilizers. While small exposures to these things are typically tolerable, larger amounts can be quite dangerous. It is best to keep your pet inside until the product is dry or watered in, and always make sure that pets do not have access to the product’s container.

Pool Chemicals: A nice cool dip in the pool is great on a hot day, and many dogs would love to jump in, too. If

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you’re planning to invite your pup into the pool, make sure he knows how to swim, first! In addition, keep all pets away from sheds or garages where pool chemicals are stored— chlorine ingestion is a surefire way to ruin your day.

Flea Products: Fleas love summer just as much as we do— not only is it warm enough to thrive, but there are plenty of dogs and cats outside to feast on. While flea products are generally safe, it is important to be familiar with the product you are using. It is also of the utmost importance to use the product according to the label, as most issues with flea products occur when they are used inappropriately.

Whatever you do, do not mix up dog and cat flea products.

The label is serious!

Plants: There are so many pretty flowers and plants to see in the summer, and dogs and cats are often inclined to find out how they taste! Make sure you know the types of plants in your yard and home, and find out which ones could be an issue for your pet. While many plants don’t cause serious problems, it is vital to know if your pet has access to one that does.

Our friends at the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center want to wish you a happy, healthy and safe summer season.  APCC is your best resource for any animal poison-related emergency—24 hours a day, 365 days a year. If you think that your pet may have ingested a potentially poisonous substance, call your veterinarian or the ASPCA Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435 immediately.

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Healthy Living/Pets

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30 | Pocono Family Magazine Š July / August 2016

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Chances are good that you know someone who has diabetes. However, you may not realize this disease that commonly affects humans is on the rise among dogs and cats. Like humans, a diagnosis of diabetes requires lifestyle changes and heightened health monitoring, yet with proper care, your pet can live a full and active life.

During a recent four-year study, Banfield hospitals have seen a 32 percent jump in cases of canine diabetes and a 16 percent increase in feline diabetes.1 Diabetes is a condition that occurs when the body cannot process glucose (sugar) into cells, resulting in too much glucose in the blood and not enough glucose in the cells for energy.

32 | Pocono Family Magazine Š July / August 2016

Untreated, diabetes can be fatal in dogs and cats, but veterinary care and at-home blood glucose monitoring can help you manage the disease in your four-legged friends.

The first step is identifying warning signs of diabetes in your pet. Certain risk factors may increase the chances of your pet getting diabetes. In both dogs and cats, these include age, obesity and breeds with a genetic predisposition.

Signs of diabetes in pets are often very similar to those in humans and include fatigue or weakness, increased hunger, weight loss, increased thirst and increased urination. If you observe one or more of these signs, consult with your veterinarian to determine the cause.

If your veterinarian diagnoses diabetes, they will create a management plan that addresses your pet's dietary and dental care needs. The plan also will call for monitoring blood glucose levels and often include a prescription for insulin.

Diet & exercise Diabetic pets are usually prescribed diets that minimize blood sugar spikes. For diabetic dogs, diets high in fiber are typical because they are lower in carbohydrates - the source of sugar - and take longer to digest. For diabetic cats, your veterinarian may recommend a diet high in protein and low in carbohydrates.

Exercise and physical activity are also important when managing diabetic pets. In general, physical activity and exercise lower blood glucose levels. This is why consistency in your pet's daily exercise schedule is important.

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July / August 2016 Pocono Family Magazine © | 33

At-home monitoring The goal of pet diabetes management is to make pets feel better by controlling glucose levels and minimizing the risk of complications. Monitoring of blood glucose is one way to assess the diabetes management plan. While veterinarians can test at the office, research shows both biological and psychosocial benefits of using at-home blood glucose monitoring systems. Monitoring blood glucose at home helps you follow your veterinarian's prescribed management plan while eliminating the pet's stress over frequent veterinarian visits.

At-home monitoring systems for pets are very different than at-home monitoring systems for humans and should not be

34 | Pocono Family Magazine Š July / August 2016

Dr. William Martin ChiropraCtiC It’s Easier to Stay Well than to Get Well Maintain your Health through Chiropractic used interchangeably.

You actually can use the same at-home monitoring systems that your veterinarian uses, such as AlphaTRAK(r) 2, which is available through your veterinarian. Specifically calibrated for dogs and cats, it is easy to use and priced affordably to make athome monitoring convenient and economical.

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Successful diabetes management is achieved through compliance with your pet's prescribed plan, at-home blood glucose monitoring and consistent communication and follow-up appointments with your veterinarian.  Visit AlphaTRAKmeter.com to learn more about diabetes management.

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Specialists in Running & Walking July / August 2016 Pocono Family Magazine © | 35

Home & Garden

The Backyard Swiss Army Knife Courtesy of Family Features

36 | Pocono Family Magazine Š July / August 2016

Many people don’t know the multi-tasking capabilities of their riding lawn mowers and compact utility tractors. With the right implements, these machines can be true workhorses for projects big and small.

Your weekend to-do list may be long, but with the proper tools you can have your outdoor spaces ready for plenty of leisurely living in no time. Here are just a few projects your mower or utility tractor can perform this season...

July / August 2016 Pocono Family Magazine Š | 37

Feed the green, keep things clean

Freshen up garden beds

Spring and fall are ideal seasons to put down fertilizer and ensure your grass is green and healthy year round. A broadcast spreader attached to a compact tractor lets you cover large lawns and acreages in no time.

After a long winter, chances are good your landscaping needs refreshing, and a fresh till and a new layer of mulch can make a major difference. Hitch up a rotary tiller to thoroughly incorporate compost and loosen up the soil. Look for implements, like those from John Deere that have iMatch technology and allow you to easily change from one tool to the next.

When it’s time to pick up and remove leaves or unwanted yard debris, just add one of the many large-capacity material collection systems to your compact or lawn tractor. You’ll breeze through big clean-up jobs without breaking a sweat.

38 | Pocono Family Magazine © July / August 2016

Whether you buy your mulch by the bag or the truck load, haul or spread it around your property with the help of a front-end loader implement for your tractor, or attach a utility cart to your riding lawn mower to transport large loads.

Create a new landscape A front-end loader implement can help transplant trees or shrubs with large root bases. The implement’s strong arms can also be essential for placing ornamental rocks and boulders. And for that split-rail or other fencing project, a post-hole digger attached to your tractor can speed the job.

For bigger digging jobs, a backhoe attachment can help with excavating a small pond or water feature or installing drainage systems and utility lines. It can also be a great time- and back-saver when digging out stumps.

Grade your driveway Winter ice, snow and heavy spring rains may have damaged your driveway, but grading gravel to smooth it or extending the space to fit more visitors will make your drive ready and accessible for warm-weather traffic. Use a rear blade or box scraper attachment to distribute, smooth and level existing or fresh gravel for a clear path. Remember that when winter weather rolls back around, the blade can serve double duty to clear the way when snow falls.

Mow like a pro When using some implements and attachments, you have to remove the mower deck on your tractor. To avoid the cumbersome task of removing and reattaching the deck, look for models with simple solutions like John Deere’s AutoConnect mid-mount mower deck. The technology, available on 1 Family Sub-Compact Tractors and Signature Series lawn tractor mowers, lets you drive on and off the mower deck without the need for tools or elbow grease, making it easy to do more work, with less work.

Find more tips to help use your utility tractors and riding lawn equipment to their fullest potential at JohnDeere.com/ Residential2016.

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Community

Friday, July 8

Summertime Greenery at the Farm Just because Summer has arrived doesn’t mean all the flowers are finished blooming. Join KCEEC staff from 10am - 12pm as we highlight the many interesting plant species that are found in the summer forests at Quiet Valley. Please dress to be outside. The walk will begin in front of the Gift Shop.

Cost: $6/non-members, $4/EE Center or Quiet Valley members, children under 12 FREE. Kettle Creek Environmental Center, 570.629.3061 www.mcconservation.org

The Pocono outdoors

Saturday, July 9

40 | Pocono Family Magazine © July / August 2016

Bridge the Gap: Hike & Bike Join us for a bike ride along the McDade Trail, followed by a hike back at PEEC. We will provide all equipment and transportation. Please bring a water bottle and lunch, and wear sturdy footwear. We will have snacks and extra water available. Please register as soon as possible as space is limited. Funding for this program provided by the William Penn Foundation. Call for details.

9:00am-3:00pm: Free Pocono Environmental Education Center, 570.828.2319 or www.peec.org

Saturday, July 9

Bugfest Displays, activities, games, crafts, live insects, insect safaris, and presentations all day, all about insects!

10am - 3pm. Cost: $5/child ages 4 - 12. Come dressed as your favorite bug and participate in the Insect Fashion Show and receive a discount on admission price! Parents can attend for FREE. Refreshments will be available for purchase.

Kettle Creek Environmental Center, 570.629.3061, www.mcconservation.org

Saturday, July 9, Sunday, July 31 Sunday, August 14, & Saturday, August 27

Ecozone Discovery Room!

Climb into a bald eagle’s nest, crawl into a bat cave, and dig in a fossil pit! Explore this indoor discovery room and enjoy hands-on exhibits on natural history, sustainability and the local environment. No registration required. 1:00-4:00pm $2 per person. Pocono Environmental Education Center, 570.828.2319 or www.peec.org

Sunday, July 10

Summer Pond Paddle Enjoy summer out on the water! Paddle a canoe or a kayak on one of our ponds. Beginners are welcome – we teach you everything you need to know. Dress appropriately – you may get wet. Call to reserve a boat.

10:00am-12:00pm, $5 Pocono Environmental Education Center, 570.828.2319, or www.peec.org

Saturday, July - 16

Life Under A Log It’s amazing how many things live in, on, and under rotting logs. Join us as we investigate the communities that are supported by these cool microhabitats, and how they affect the entire forest ecosystem. We will capture some of the underground creatures for a closer look before releasing them. This family program will begin at 10am. Please dress to be outside and dig in the dirt.

10am Cost: $6/non-members, $4/children under 12. EE Center members FREE. Kettle Creek Environmental Center, 570.629.3061, www.mcconservation.org

Wednesday, July 20

Josie Porter Farm Meandering - “Insects” Warm summer days are good for bugs of all kinds. Join us as we sweep net the fields and discover some of the many that are out and about. All of our monthly Josie Porter Farm Meanderings are from 4 - 6pm, rain or shine. Please wear comfortable walking shoes and dress to be outside. Walks meet in the farm parking lot on Cherry Valley Rd. Pre-registration is suggested.

4 - 6pm, Cost: $6/non-members, $4/EE Center or CSA members, children under 12 FREE. Kettle Creek Environmental Center, 570.629.3061,www. mcconservation.org

Saturday, July 23

Dragonfly Walk - Learn about the wonderful world of dragonflies! Join David Trently on a search through the fields and around the ponds for dragonflies and butterflies. Call early – spaces fill up fast.

1:00-3:00pm, $5 - Pocono Environmental Education Center, 570.828.2319, or www.peec.org

Saturday, July 23

Sssnakes Alive!

Learn about the identification and biological roles of the snakes of our area during this always popular program with Environmental Educator Brian Hardiman. Designed for all ages, this 1 ½ hour program begins at 10am and focuses on local species and includes live snakes and a slide-illustrated talk. 10 - 11:30am, Cost: $6/non-members, $4/children under 12. EE Center members FREE Kettle Creek Environmental Center, 570.629.3061,www.mcconservation.org

Sunday, July 24

Sunday for Singles Nature Hike Enjoy a guided hike on a PEEC trail. This program is all about exploring nature and meeting new people.

1:00-3:00pm, Free - Pocono Environmental Education Center, 570.828.2319, or www.peec.org

Saturday, July 30

Edible & Medicinal Plant Walk Nature provides food & natural remedies for us in the form of many plants. Join us on a hike focused on wild edible & medicinal plants.

No collecting will be done within the Park.

10:00am-12:00pm, $5. Pocono Environmental Education Center, 570.828.2319, or www.peec.org

Saturday, July 30

Frog Frolic Join us for a fun afternoon at the ponds and streams!

Learn about some of our frog friends as we gently catch and release these hopping amphibians. Wear boots and plan on getting a little wet and muddy!

1:00-3:00pm, $5 per person, Pocono Environmental Education Center, 570.828.2319, or www.peec.org

July / August 2016 Pocono Family Magazine © | 41

Dale's

serves fresh food 8am - 4pm every day • Route 611 Bartonsville dalescafeandgrill.com

Sunday, July 31

Bridge the Gap: Pond Paddle Come join us for a free paddle on our ponds! Beginners are welcome—we will teach you everything you need to know! Dress appropriately—you may get wet.

Spaces are limited; Call to reserve a boat! Funding for this program provided by the William Penn Foundation.

10:00am-12:00pm, Free, Pocono Environmental Education Center, 570.828.2319, or www.peec.org

Saturday. August 5 - Sunday, August 7

Local’s Favorite for Over 30 Years Homemade Soups & Pies Breakfast Served All Day Reasonable Prices!

1427 N. 5th St, Stroudsburg, PA

570-421-6193 Open 6am Daily

Cupcake Shop & Nostalgic Candy

Exciting “How-to” Culinary Classes 733 Main Street Stroudsburg, PA

570-730-4944 ldiemer@ptd.net

www.Kitchen-Chemistry.com

life’s

greater

in the

pocono

mountains For things to do and see, visit PoconoMountains.com

42 | Pocono Family Magazine © July / August 2016

PMVB-23599 August Pocono Living Mag. Ad 2.375x2.375.indd 6/4/15 1 12:50 PM

Adult Nature Weekend Take a weekend off and relax in the Poconos! Enjoy interpretive hikes, canoeing, waterfall tours, animal presenters, campfires, and more! Ages 21 and up, please. Includes two nights of lodging and six meals. $195 – Commuter & Day Rates available – Call for details. Pocono Environmental Education Center, 570.828.2319, or www.peec.org

Sunday, August 7

Little Eco Explorers: Fish A fun hands-on program for young children! Join us for a story, craft, and activity focusing on a particular critter. Call for details.1:00-3:00pm, $5 per child Pocono Environmental Education Center, 570.828.2319, or www.peec.org

Saturday, August 13

Butterfly Walk Learn about the wonderful world of butterflies!

Join David Trently on a search through the fields and around the ponds for butterflies and dragonflies. Call early – spaces fill up fast!

10:00am-12:00pm, $5, Pocono Environmental Education Center, 570.828.2319, or www.peec.org

Sunday, August 14

Frog Frenzy Join us for a fun morning at the ponds and streams!

Learn about some of our frog friends as we gently catch and release these hopping amphibians. Wear boots and plan on getting a little wet and muddy. 10:00am12:00pm, $5 per person, Pocono Environmental Education Center, 570.828.2319, or www.peec.org

Saturday, August 20

Nature at Night A pleasant summer evening is the perfect time to head outside. Take a walk in the woods to listen for owls, look at stars, and enjoy the music of the night. Enjoy fun activities that test your night vision. 8:00-9:30pm, $5 Pocono Environmental Education Center, 570.828.2319, or www.peec.org

Sunday, August 21

Edible & Medicinal Plant Walk Nature provides food & natural remedies for us in the form of many plants. Join us on a hike focused on wild edible & medicinal plants.

No collecting will be done within the Park.

1:00-3:00pm, $5, Pocono Environmental Education Center, 570.828.2319, or www.peec.org

Sunday, August 21

Geology Hike Come join us for a program based on the geology of the area. We’ll take a short hike and talk about rocks, fossils, glacial deposits, and what makes our park unique.1:003:00pm, $5 Pocono Environmental Education Center, 570.828.2319, or www.peec.org

Saturday, August 27

Pond Explorers Join us as we explore the ponds with nets! We’ll collect fish, macro-invertebrates, amphibians, and anything else we find in some buckets, for up-close study. Wear boots and plan on getting a little wet and muddy! Register early!

10:00am-12:00pm, $5 per person, Pocono Environmental Education Center, 570.828.2319, or www.peec.org

Customized treatment plans based on your individual lifestyle!

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Sunday, August 28

Sunday for Singles Nature Hike Enjoy a guided hike on a PEEC trail. This program is all about exploring nature and meeting new people.

1:00-3:00pm, Free, Pocono Environmental Education Center, 570.828.2319, or www.peec.org

Bill Long 973-699-6824 www.ShortHillsCustom.com July / August 2016 Pocono Family Magazine © | 43

Parting Shot “Peaceful Lake” by Maritza Mc Faline

44 | Pocono Family Magazine © July / August 2016

July / August 2016 Pocono Family Magazine Š | 45

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46 | Pocono Family Magazine © July / August 2016

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