Longmont Magazine - July/August 2023

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EDITOR

Misty Kaiser kaiserm@timescall.com

DESIGN

Greg Stone gstone@prairiemountainmedia.com

PUBLISHER

Jill Stravolemos jstravolemos@prairiemountainmedia.com

303-473-1420

ADVERTSING SALES

Julie Casper, Ruth Garfield, Thais Hafer

Jim Koppel, Billy Magrini

Dale Sekuler, Francine Wahlgren

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Brittany Anas, Darian Armer

Linda Thorsen Bond, Kathleen Duff, Sarah Huber, Ross Maak, Elise Oberliesen, Andy Stonehouse, Shelley Widhalm

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Jonathan Castner

LONGMONT MAGAZINE

A Publication of the Longmont Times-Call 303-776-2244; 800-270-9774 longmontmagazine.com

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July/August 2023 LONGMONT MAGAZINE 5
Longmont Magazine is published six times a year in print and e-edition with circulation of more than 83,000 copies EDITORIAL & EVENTS
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Pet love...

Furred, feathered, or scaled, pets are a non-negotiable part of the lives they touch. Admittedly, I’ve done very little research on this, but it seems that dogs are Coloradoans’ favorite pets. Judging by the number of entries in our cutest dog contest, that certainly feels true, anyway. But there are plenty of people into less conventional ideas of pets, from horses to small “pocket” pets that fill that animal shaped hole in their lives. In this edition we hope to offer a little something for animal lovers of every ilk.

Learn about alternative ways to manage a pet’s medical condition. Book your precious pooch a luxury overnight stay during your vacation

time; they might even have more fun than you will.

We even have a number of entertaining events built around animals of all kinds. And don’t forget to take a gander at the cute dogs in town – yours, your friend’s and your neighbor’s.

While most events we’ve included make animals the centerpiece, there’s another annual event at the top of people’s list this summer – Unity in the Community. Celebrate the community that enriches your life daily at this unique festival.

With all of the Longmont Pride on display this summer, and year round, it saddens me to announce that this is my last edition as editor of Longmont Magazine. This city and magazine will always hold a special place in my heart as I move on to other endeavors. I wish you Longmontsters well and know you’ll continue to do incredible things.

6 LONGMONT MAGAZINE LongmontMagazine.com
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July/August 2023 LONGMONT MAGAZINE 7 8 COMMUNITY Unity in the Community: The Business of Good Clean Fun 12 ENTERTAINMENT Love Animals? Put These 4 Events On Your Summer Calendar 14 LOCAL INFLUENCER Meet Narcisco Garibay, Longmont Market President at High Plains Bank 16 MAKING A DIFFERENCE Annie and Millie’s Place: Helping the Unhoused and Their Pets Stay Together 18 MAKING A DIFFERENCE Colorado Horse Rescue: Creating Safe Solutions for Every Horse 21 BUSINESS Happy Hounds: Book a Luxury Staycation for Your Pet 23 LOCAL GUIDE Longmont Area Dog Parks 24 CUTEST DOG CONTEST The Results of Our Annual Longmont Cutest Dog Contest 27 TRENDING Pocket Pets: What You Need to Know to Care For Pint-Sized Pets 30 HEALTH Alternative Health for Paws & Hooves 34 HEALTH Therapy Pooches 37 DOG TRAINING 101 Helping to Build the Partnership Between Guardian and Dog 38 HEALTH Saying Goodbye At Home 42 FOOD Music & Meals at Blue Mountain Vineyards 42 CALENDAR OF EVENTS Where to Go and What to See in Longmont WHAT’SINSIDE j u l y / a u g u s t , 2 0 2 3 8 18 42 l o n g m o n t m a g a z i n e . c o m

fun Good clean

Longmont’s Unity in the Community is in the business of fun for the whole family At the same time, families get to know the businesses of Longmont On Aug 25 the Chamber brings a street festival to downtown

with entertainment, fun and the opportunity to get to know the businesses and nonprofits that move Longmont forward

For almost two decades, Unity in the Community has been a part of life in the Front Range Karen Stallard, the Chamber’s Business Development Director, said the event took a time out during the Pandemic but has come

back strong with more than 120 booths of organizations and businesses, food and activities

There’s even Longmont Living Room, an outside parlor for conversations with local, state and federal officials The event ends with a free concert featuring a local band

“Unity is becoming more and more relevant over recent years,” she said. “We are coming back and reminding everyone that talking to people of different viewpoints with good civil discourse is important. This event is named for unity, and that resonates with people as we don’t always see unity in our world It is relevant and poignant in our town and our own backyard We encourage people to come to this place and space where unity can happen in Longmont and the rest of the Front Range Anyone and everyone can meet the businesses, elected officials and find out how to get involved It’s a one-day event but not a one-day sentiment.”

“Unity in the Community is kind of a new form of downtown street festival,” Stallard said “We expanded it substantially when we moved downtown We’ll close the whole intersection at 4th and Kimbark, from Main Street to Emery There will be food trucks and drinkeries We love Putt Putt, so we will build a course on the plaza of the library We have lots of handson family-friendly activities It’s not the not typical business event, because we throw in physical engagement like the dunk tank ”

It’s an advantage that the Longmont Chamber is not confined to district lines, Stallard said “Unlike other Downtown events, we can work with members and nonmembers across Longmont. Maybe there are businesses you have driven past and you don’t know what they do Now you can meet

8 LONGMONT MAGAZINE LongmontMagazine com
COMMUNITY
unity in the community the business of

businesses and organizations that share your core values and get connected We have a range of industries that’s all over the map. We even have STEAM Street in partnership with the St. Vrain Valley School District It’s a huge opportunity for all parts of the community to come together, which of course we didn’t have during the pandemic ”

It’s the kind of event community leaders are pleased to support. Jill Stravolemos, publisher and CEO of Prairie Mountain Media, said, “At the Longmont Times-Call and Longmont Magazine, we’re committed to delivering community news But we also share the belief that the quality of life we enjoy in this community depends on our willingness to support it with our time and resources Supporting events like Unity in the Community is our responsibility and privilege ”

Stallard said there will be a nice variety of food, including tacos, Americana, barbecue and vegan Local breweries and drinkeries will serve in the food and beverage area, with a wine bar, craft distilleries, cider, spirits and even mocktails Stallard said the event is like a beer garden because people can walk freely throughout the area and even into the evening concert

Five local nonprofit organizations will be chosen in early August to get grants from the Chamber’s fund in Longmont’s Community Foundation. Each nonprofit will get $1,500 and may even receive more as people vote for their favorite organization The money raised from the sale of drink tickets will be divided among the five recipients based on the proportion of votes they receive.

In 2019, engineer Matt Stallard invented a 12-foot-tall vacuum-powered ping pong ball voting machine called The Giving Tower that tallies votes for the five recipient nonprofits selected for the grant They each receive a share of the profits made on drink tickets during the event.

The organization that received the largest proportion of votes last year, Annie and Millie’s Place, is the feature story in Longmont Magazine this month (see page 16). Kristen Baltrum, Founder and Executive

Director, said receiving funds from the popular vote was very important to the organization that helps homeless people with their pets “Because we didn’t have longstanding awareness in the community, we were surprised to win the Unity funds,” she said “It gave us one of our first major wins, followed by big moments of huge celebration We could proclaim that we have the backing of the community We were young and new, and the Unity festival started us on a strong footing”

“High Plains Bank has been the presenting sponsor of Unity in the Community since 2019 when it was transformed to an outdoor, family and community-centric event in downtown Longmont,”

July/August 2023 LONGMONT MAGAZINE 9
Unity in the Community has come back strong after the pandemic with more than 120 booths of organizations and businesses, food and activities in 2022. Unity in the Community, as shown above in 2022, concludes with an evening concert.
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said Michelle Hovdesven, AVP, Shareholder Relations at High Plains Bank “Even before we became a presenting sponsor, we wanted to support our local nonprofits, so High Plains Bank, the Longmont Community Foundation and the Longmont Chamber of Commerce established the ‘Unity Funds the Community’ fund. This is a grant fund available to those

nonprofits participating in the Unity in the Community event and we have granted over $20,000 to date to Unity nonprofit participants ”

“High Plains Bank is a community bank that was founded in 1908 in Flagler, CO, and we now have five branches in Colorado. We opened our doors in Longmont in 2013 and have been humbled by the warm welcome from our community We are employee and family owned and passionate about building thriving communities. This event deeply aligns with our values so we are delighted to participate

and support this inclusive, community-building event ”

The festival has the backing of leaders throughout Longmont Colin Argys, Marketing & Event Specialist for Longmont Downtown Development, said, “Unity in the Community is such a wonderful community event in downtown Longmont. We love to see the confluence of business leaders, policy leaders, nonprofits, and the greater community come together for such a fun and enriching evening The Chamber team works so hard to inject new energy into the event each year and bring the community together to network, learn, discover, and have fun!”

Longmont Area Chamber of Commerce, 528 Main St , Longmont • 303 776 5295, longmontchamber org/unity

July/August 2023 LONGMONT MAGAZINE 11

Does your idea of summer fun involve raising money for the local humane society or visiting an animal sanctuary and learning about the residents’ unique personalities?

If you’re an animal lover, there are all kinds of fun things to do this summer that involve furry friends (or benefit them)

From a golf tournament to benefit Longmont Humane

12 LONGMONT MAGAZINE LongmontMagazine com
LoveAnimals? Put These 4 Events on Your Summer Calendar ENTERTAINMENT
Trap-Neuter-Return Cat Socialization Foster • Adoption • Colony Management Education www.longmontfriendsofcats.org info@longmontfriendsofcats.org - Tuition-free K-8 public charter school - Colorado and National "School to Watch” - ngmont's premier science and technology school - Hands-on Collaborative learning VisitFlagstaffAcademy’s Cutest ClassroomPet atflagstaffacademy.org Enroll Now For the 23/24 SchoolYear!
If you’re a golf enthusiast and animal lover, put Longmont Humane Society’s Putt for Mutts on your calendar (Photo courtesy: Longmont Humane Society)

Society to concerts on a farm with peacocks lending an unscripted backup as well as an open house at a notable animal rescue and a 5K you can run with your pet, here are four unique ways to spend some time outdoors this summer

THROUGH OCT. 6

Farmfest Music Evenings

Sunflower Farm is a rural gem in Longmont that’s designated as an “Educational Demonstration Farm” and pint-sized visitors can come to this peaceful oasis to pet the goats, sheep and horses, jump along the hay bales and explore the playhouses

During the summer season, the music evenings bring local musicians to the farm to play in an outdoor venue, surrounded by free-range chickens and screeching peacocks Laughing children add to the soundtrack Summer Farmfest Music Evenings are held through early October and take place every Wednesday evening with some additional performances on Friday evenings

The Farmfest Music Evenings are from 4 p m to 8 p m on Wednesday, (and some Friday evenings), with music starting at 5 p m Food trucks are available and the Palo Coffee & Bar drink cart sells non-alcoholic drinks and snow cones.

Reservations are required and tickets cost $27 per person, and babies 12 months and under are free. Those coming to the concerts should bring chairs and blankets > More information: sunflowerfarminfo com/summer-music

AUG. 5

Good Life Refuge August Open House

Good Life Refuge is a non-profit animal sanctuary that’s home to 70 animals and 14 different species. Animal residents include pigs, alpacas, calves, goats and ducks

The refuge hosts open houses, with the next one taking place from 2 to 3:30 p m on Aug 5

Registration will be available on the Good Life Refuge’s website: goodliferefuge org/ events-calender During the open house, guests will learn about the animal’s unique personalities and also meet volunteer staff

In addition to the open house, Good Life Refuge also hosts Saturday “Public Kindness Farm Tours” that guests can book online. You can also donate to the refuge to help care for the rescued animals > More information: goodliferefuge org

AUG. 5

Dog Days of Summer 5K and 1K Dash:

Come run a 5K (or a 1K!) at McIntosh Lake with scenic mountain views in the backdrop Runners can bring their dogs to run alongside them at the “Dog Days of Summer” 5K that’s hosted by Evolve Health and Wellness

The run raises money for Smile Train and Team for Kids with Rising New York Road Runners.

After the race, participants can enjoy music, food, beverages and games from vendors. Runners are also encouraged to bring their stand-up paddleboards, kayaks, fishing poles and more to enjoy a summer lake day.

Registration for the 5K walk/ run is $45; the cost for the 1K Dash is $20 > More information: runsignup.com/ Race/CO/Longmont/ DogDaysofSummer2023

AUG. 7

Longmont Humane Society’s Putts for Mutts

If you’re a golf enthusiast and an animal lover, put Longmont Humane Society’s Putt for Mutts on your calendar. Held at the Fox Hill Golf Club, the Putts for Mutts fundraiser is a new event this year for the Longmont Humane Society. Participants can come out for a scramble-style round, and prizes will be awarded for the longest drive, closest to the pin and the highest team score.

As of press time, there were

still openings for golfers as well as sponsorships starting as low as $250.

“This is a perfect chance to play at the beautiful Fox Hill Golf Club and support our shelter animals,” says Melissa Grosjean, marketing coordinator for the Longmont Humane Society

Funds raised will go to Annie’s Fund at Longmont Humane Society which covers extra medical expenses for shelter pets

The cost for an individual golfer is $150 and foursomes are $600, and the registration covers green fees, a cart, gift bag, prize opportunities, two drink tickets and an awards luncheon directly following the golf tournament for each player

Corporate foursomes/Guardian Angel Sponsorships ($5,000) include all benefits of a basic foursome as well as tee-sign, booth space at the event, and recognition on all social media, website, print media and event banners > More information: longmonthumane org

July/August 2023 LONGMONT MAGAZINE 13
Sunflower Farms hosts summer Farmfest Music evenings at its peaceful oasis with goats, sheep, horses and more. (Photo courtesy: Sunflower Farms).

meet

Narcisco garibay

seven years. He also helped a couple of banks start commercial offices in the Boulder County area

“Given my background and network in the area, my focus is helping grow organizations on the commercial banking side that want to be in Boulder County,” Garibay said. “For me, it’s always been building relationships with the business community, really forming those relationships and getting to know different businesses and their needs.”

ing and partnering with more than 200 nonprofits, plus hosts a variety of fundraisers, all of which help the bank be more visible in the community, Garibay said.

“The way I see our role is we should be active and involved in the community,” Garibay said “When you volunteer, you better understand the needs of the community ”

Narciso Garibay joined High Plains Bank in his home base liking how the community bank empowers employee volunteerism.

“High Plains Bank encourages its employees to get involved with a lot of community organizations that help the community be better,” said Garibay, Longmont market president of High Plains Bank and a Longmont resident for 12 years. “That mindset of all employees striving to make the communities they live in better resonated with me ”

Garibay, who has an MBA in finance and accounting, started with High Plains Bank in December 2022, bringing with him 18 years of commercial banking experience with regional and national banks located primarily in Boulder County His first position was as a credit analyst for Wells Fargo, where he later became senior vice president of commercial banking, serving the company for nearly

High Plains Bank, founded in 1908, has five locations in Longmont, Bennett, Flagler, Keenesburg and Wiggins and is opening an administrative office in Longmont with move-in expected by mid-December 2023

The bank is family-run, employee-owned and community-driven and puts value on small business owners and personal relationships, as stated on its website, hpbgo.com.

“We say family first, then community, then the bank,” the website states

Garibay wants to understand Longmont’s challenges and find ways he can leverage the bank’s resources to meet the needs of the community and the businesses there, he said He does this by connecting businesses with the bank’s loan programs and products and services, as well as with his network of contacts to help them establish and grow their businesses, he said

“We have a little bit of an understanding of the market conditions and the local businesses we work with,” Garibay said “It’s that shared vision everyone has here of that family-first bank.”

High Plains Bank is committed to serving Longmont by sponsor-

Garibay likes how the bank encourages its employees to be involved, especially since he and his wife, Toni, are starting a family – their son, Austin, is eight months old He joined the Front Range Community College Foundation board earlier this year, plus he served for 10 years on the grant review committee for the Community Foundation Serving Boulder County

Garibay, bilingual in Spanish and English, serves in other ways, too, such as by helping Spanish speakers engage with the bank, which now has a bilingual page on its website

“We’re here to serve the entire community and communicate with the entire community, whether it’s English being the primary language or with our bilingual initiative as well,” Garibay said.

Ultimately, Garibay is an influencer with an aim to better his community while serving in his professional role as a banker.

“An influencer is someone who is well respected in the community and can bring a lot of different people in the community together, whether sharing information or having a dialog on different topics and seeing what needs are to help solve those problems,” Garibay said. “The biggest thing an influencer can do is make introductions ”

14 LONGMONT MAGAZINE LongmontMagazine com
LOCAL INFLUENCER
Narciso helps lead High Plains Bank with community in mind.
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Helping the unhoused and their pets stay together

Most people who have pets would do anything to keep their furry friends safe and healthy

Those who are unhoused feel the same way It’s not unusual to see homeless people give food or shelter to their animals before providing for themselves

But that selflessness, along with ongoing social, emotional and financial challenges, can end up putting both humans and their

cherished companions at risk

That’s where Annie and Millie’s Place comes in The Longmont nonprofit organization helps the unhoused and their pets stay together by providing resources, solutions and programs, fully recognizing that this relationship is essential to both

“There is a lot of research around the human-animal bond in a crisis We also know that your blood pressure decreases when you have an animal Animals keep people healthier emotionally and physiologically,” explained Kristen Baltrum, executive director and founder of the

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MAKING A DIFFERENCE
annie and millie’s place
10 - 13,
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(Photo courtesy: Annie and Millie’s Place).
Boulder County Fair August
2023

nonprofit. “When we are taking care of the pet, we are taking care of the person, as well, because the pet is providing for the health and well-being of the person ”

Annie and Millie’s Place is a personal mission for Baltrum. Annie was her sister - a woman whose “self-sacrificial spirit soon led her to experience homelessness herself,” per annieandmillies org Annie’s dog, Millie, was always by her side as they navigated life on the streets That mutually beneficial connection gave Annie a purpose. While help was available for Annie, resources were not provided for Millie Unwilling to sacrifice her dog, Annie didn’t receive the services she needed She did get help from family and friends along the way, but it wasn’t enough to prevent her physical and emotional health from deteriorating.

“Eventually, Annie decided that life on the streets and Earth were too much for her to bear Annie leashed Millie to the front

porch of a home where she was sheltering and took her own life ” Animal Control seized Millie Today, Baltrum honors her sister’s memory by giving homeless humans a respite from the streets.

“The pillar of our purpose is to build an open-minded network of people and bring awareness to human-animal homelessness,” Baltrum wrote on the website

According to the U S Housing and Urban Development, up to 25 percent of those who are homeless have a dog or a cat as a companion Annie and Millie’s Place utilizes volunteers, grants and partnerships to help both humans and animals Among its services, Annie and Millie’s Place provides

People’s & Paw Packs, a simple bag of snacks for the pets and their owners, a collapsible water bowl for the dog and contact information for additional resources

By working with other nonprofits, companies and social service organizations, Annie and Millie’s Place helps connect homeless people to resources for pet food, vaccinations, emergent and preventive veterinary care and foster care as well as humanbased services

Because the nonprofit does not have a brick-and-mortar location, it is working to build resources around the issues of homelessness and pets

“So when we do build, we can do it based on a model of relationships So that is good for everybody The biggest end goal is to have a co-sheltering space where people and their pets could receive safe shelter right alongside their animals,” Baltrum said

Numerous volunteers keep Annie and Millie’s legacy going Baltrum concluded, “It’s hard work. I want people to know it’s important, and it’s possible If they are an animal lover and have a pet themselves, the next time they are loving on their animal, think about those who don’t have the resources to take care of themselves and their pets. If compassion was running free in the world, we would have a different place ”

Annie and Millie’s Place

Annie and Millie’s Place is a 501(3c) nonprofit It is funded by grants and donations and led by volunteers

For information or to make a donation, visit AnnieandMillies.org or call 720.340.1268. Contributions also can be mailed to PO Box 6643, Longmont, CO 80501

In-kind donations, such as for dog food, can be made to: First Evangelical Lutheran Church, 803 3rd Ave., Longmont, CO 80501.

July/August 2023 LONGMONT MAGAZINE 17
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Annie and Millie’s Place is a personal mission for Kristen Baltrum, executive director and founder. (Photo courtesy: Annie and Millie’s Place).

Colorado Horse Rescue Creating safe solutions for every horse

Katherine Gregory, CEO of Colorado Horse Rescue (CHR), says that riding her big, buckskin Quarter Horse helped her get through the tough years of middle and early high school “I am so very grateful that now I can give back to horses who have given so much to the humans in their lives,” she says

For 37 years, CHR has been providing support for horses and horse owners with their professional team of equine specialists, trainers and matchmakers CHR operates at a full capacity of 60 rescue horses and has a long waitlist of horses in need of help On average, the organization places more than one horse in a new home each week. “CHR takes the time to match each horse with the right family and provides support to both horses and owners to ensure successful long-term placements,” says Gregory

All horses will end up unrideable at some point in their lives, and Gregory envisions a world where these horses are just as valuable as their riding counterparts “Horses, like cats and dogs, were domesticated by humans, and it is our collective responsibility to ensure they are taken care of,” she says “Together with our community, we work to continuously reimagine what’s possible and create a reality where safe solutions exist for every horse ”

CHR also works with local jurisdictions to provide housing and rehabilitation for horses seized

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MAKING A DIFFERENCE
Katherine Gregory, CEO of Colorado Horse Rescue. (Photo courtesy: Colorado Horse Rescue).

by Animal Control due to extreme neglect. “It is remarkable to watch these severely emaciated, emotionally shut-down animals become happy, thriving, and ready to find their new human partners,” says Gregory

This summer, CHR hosted the inaugural PEAK (Performance Equine Adoption Kick-start) Training Challenge, in which professional trainers were partnered for 100 days with unstarted or lightly-handled members of the CHR herd to better prepare them for adoption The event helped spread the word about CHR’s important work with a panel of respected equine professionals, an audience full of equine enthusiasts, and a $10,000 cash prize pool for the winning trainer

Jen Kayton started volunteering with CHR about 7 years ago after she read about the organization rescuing four mustangs after a large seizure. “Most people don’t realize how many horses can end up in dangerous and unsafe situations,” says Kayton “When they transition between homes they can get un-

lucky and end up at auctions where they could be bought and sent to slaughter in Mexico and Canada. CHR works tirelessly to make sure as many horses as possible have a safe landing place.”

Kayton’s volunteer shifts usually include barn chores like mucking pens, putting out hay, and filling water troughs. She also volunteers with CHR’s Companion Connection program, which connects caregivers with horses for walks, grooming, and training activities. “These are usually horses that

aren’t being ridden anymore and who might be adopted or fostered as a companion to another horse, or to a human who just wants to love on a good horse,” says Kayton. “I’m working with a horse named Scooby right now who is a total sweetheart ”

Kayton says that, while most people associate animal rescue with sad circumstances, CHR is just the opposite. “I like to think of it as horse heaven,” she says “These horses get the most phenomenal care from staff and equine professionals They are surrounded by volunteers all week long who are there just because of how much they love horses The horses are well-fed, have clean water, and get tons of love and attention The rescue isn’t a sad place at all. It’s a place filled with purpose and love for horses ”

On September 23, CHR will present The Mane Event at the Ranch, a farm-to-table benefit dinner Learn more and book a tour of CHR on the website at chr.org/visit.

July/August 2023 LONGMONT MAGAZINE 19
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“Horses, like cats and dogs, were domesticated by humans, and it is our collective responsibility to ensure they are taken care of.”
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HAPPY HOUNDS Book a luxury staycation for your pet

Any dedicated pet owner knows the guilt that comes with taking a vacation

Sure, summer is the perfect time to take that well-deserved getaway, to leave the routine for a couple of weeks and find rest and relaxation in a faraway locale That may not be so simple for those with beloved dogs, pets who can’t come along on that dream vacation Leaving animals comes with its own set of stresses and concerns, especially when it comes to finding the perfect boarding option

That’s why the services offered at Happy Hounds Dog Care Center in Longmont are

so valuable for vacationers who are dedicated to their pooches Any feelings of guilt that come

with leaving the dog at home will disappear with Happy Hounds’ long list of accommodations, packages and services, all geared toward making canine visitors comfortable and happy

Indeed, Happy Hounds aims to make their guests feel like they’re on vacation, too. The center, which also offers grooming and daycare services, has a range of options for long-term boarding With standard suites priced at $52 a day and luxury suites priced at $64 a day, Happy Hounds offers a range of options for dogs and owners alike

“We have a total of 71 suites (60 standard suites and 11 luxury suites) Even our standard suites are nicer than most facilities No chain link or cage-like feeling to them,” said Olivia Carol Neil, coowner “Our Luxury suites are in a room with extra-high ceilings and many windows for natural light to enter the area Each luxury suite is more spacious than the standard suites, with thicker side walls that allow for more privacy for the pups in them We also have only 11 luxury suites in this room, which allows for a more private boarding experience ”

Their approach to hosting pets takes cues from human hotels –in addition to the standard suites and services, Happy Hounds offers luxury options These upper-scale choices give canine visitors the chance to revel in the figurative lap of luxury.

The dog care center has

July/August 2023 LONGMONT MAGAZINE 21
BUSINESS
Happy Hounds aims to make their guests feel like they’re on vacation, too.

plenty of room to make good on its promise of high-quality

Boarding facilities are monitored 24 hours a day, seven nd a dog’s stay

During the day, guests have access ch, depending on itial assessment round other dogs, can include time with fellow boarders, exercise and plenty of play

“For all dogs boarding with us, standard boarding or upgraded packages, we offer Wellness Checks for their pup throughout the stay,” Neil said. “During these checks, we observe the health of eyes, ears, mouth, nose, teeth, skin, paws, nails, posture/ mobility, behavior and eliminations ”

In the evening, all canine guests are welcomed back to climatecontrolled rooms They can eat, rest and even revel

in relaxing music Every dog gets plenty of chances to use the bathroom and feel comfortable before bedtime Happy Hounds works with owners to ensure that boarders keep a sense of home – they ask that dogs come with leashes, food and favorite toys.

This is just one part of Happy Hounds’ unique approach to its boarders, one that takes into account every animal’s unique personality, needs and interactions with other pooches. To that end, boarders are required to visit the facility for an assessment This process helps ensure that every dog has what they need to feel comfortable and safe in the environment and to help give them a sense of their surroundings before their stay.

All of this aligns with the broader, individualized approach to dog care According to Neil, Happy Hounds accommodates every type of pooch, from canine social butterflies to doggie loners

“We offer specialized packages designed for older dogs, puppies and dogs that don't socialize well with other dogs,” she said.

No matter the breed, the temperament or the age, every dog will find luxury at Happy Hounds

LongmontMagazine com
HAPPY HOUNDS AIMS TO MAKE
THEIR GUESTS FEEL LIKE THEY’RE ON VACATION, TOO.
Happy Hounds accommodates every type of pooch, from canine social butterflies to doggie loners.
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No matter the breed, the temperament or the age, every dog will find luxury at Happy Hounds.

Longmont Area Dog Parks

BLUE SKIES NEIGHBORHOOD PARK / DOG PARK

1520 Mountain Drive, Longmont Blue Skies Neighborhood Park is a welcoming park that warmly accommodates pets This charming park,inspired by airplanes,features playgrounds,open fields,restrooms, and various other amenities.

Additionally,there is a secure dog run where your furry companion can freely enjoy off-leash playtime

LONGMONT AIRPORT ROAD DOG PARK

375 Airport Road, Longmont

The Longmont Airport Dog Park is a fenced area that provides designated spaces for both big and small dogs It includes amenities such as a shelter,

benches, picnic tables, drinking water, an agility course, and a water feature.

LONGMONT FRANCIS STREET DOG PARK

Francis Street and 21st Avenue, Longmont

Within this enclosed dog park, there are designated spaces for both big and small canines. It provides a shelter, benches and picnic tables for visitors’ convenience

ROUGH AND READY DOG PARK

301 E 21st Avenue, Longmont Park set along its namesake ditch with sports courts,a play field,an off-leash dog zone & playground

STEPHEN DAY NEIGHBORHOOD PARK / DOG PARK

1340 Deerwood Drive, Longmont Stephen Day Neighborhood Park, located in Longmont,offers an abundance of recreational opportunities As a pet-friendly park with a captivating “Voyager” theme,it provides numerous play areas The park features picnic spots,expansive fields,a playground, restrooms,and various other amenities. Furthermore,there is a secure dog run where your beloved Fido can joyfully roam without a leash

July/August 2023 LONGMONT MAGAZINE 23
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Winner: Happy

ongmont certainly has no shortage of canine companions – and they’re all adorable in their own ways. We had so many submissions, the decision was extremely difficult to make, but readers came through and here they are: Longmont’s cutest dogs! The winner, Happy, will be receiving a $200 gift certificate to Happy Hounds thanks to our sponsor Happy Hounds Dog Care Center, as well as a hearty congratulations from all of us. Thanks to everyone who submitted their pet photos, they were a joy to see!

presented by Happy Hounds dog care center

1651 Skway drive, Longmont, 303 774 8158 happyhoundscolorado com

Runners Up: Bentley J

24 LONGMONT MAGAZINE LongmontMagazine com
owners: Arturo Bencosme & Leonor toro owner: Julie Jones Rosco owner: Jessica Gaffney

The Story of Happy, a Rescue Dog

PHOTOS: JONATHAN CASTNER

After several months of looking for the right dog for us, we found a rescue dog posted for adoption by Caring for Canines (caringforcanines org) that we really liked in April 2021 We immediately contacted and made arrangements to go to her place in Arizona on May 6. Upon arrival, they explained that this male dog was about 1 year old and had been rescued in Mexico where most likely he had several sad experiences on the streets. He is a Standard Schnauzer & Border Terrier mix His birth date is April 7, 2020

It was love at first sight! We named him HAPPY We started our return to Longmont that same day, and while we noticed that Happy seemed a bit anxious, he demonstrated being comfortable as soon as we entered our hotel room halfway home

Happy was quick to make himself at home in our home in Longmont. Not so when we walked him He

was overly alert and cautious and took him several months to pee and poo, and to feel safe with other dogs and people who he did not know But his true personality and caring love for us grew fast He has become a close buddy to our sons’ dogs, so much so, that he gets immensely excited when we drive near their places and enjoys playing with them every time we take him to visit with them

Happy’s many qualities include being loving, playful, intelligent, active, agile and protective He is very attentive to instructions and has a keen eye and hearing for detecting when somebody

approaches our home And he is deeply attached to us

Happy looks forward to a ride in the car, a walk in the neighborhood or at the various parks in the area Notably, he takes pleasure in playing on our bed when preparing to sleep, getting thrilled at making it difficult to set up the pillows as we prefer them

It is just fascinating to watch him stalking and chasing squirrels in our backyard Better yet, he watches TV with us and gets utterly excited when dogs or other animals show up on the screen. He also does that when seeing other dogs as we drive our car by them Although he does not like taking showers, he enjoys the snow and tries to bite the water from a hose in the yard Getting cozy when the three of us are together is one of his hallmarks

Happy is now a little more than 3 years old, weighing 28 pounds and staying healthy, strong and cheerful. He has become an important member of our family

We go everywhere with him and the three of us relish being together He honors his name bringing happiness to us continuously.

July/August 2023 LONGMONT MAGAZINE 25
View all photos of entries at: LongmontMagazine.com/pet-contest/cutest-dog
Just a dog and her chew toy!
ust a and
Miss Maggie owner: Sharla Dierks owner: K friesner

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P T P TS

Whatyouneedtoknowto careforpint-sizepets

Family Pet Hospital in Longmont recently added pocket pet veterinary care to their services and offered the following tips to those considering adopting or purchasing a diminutive creature as their very own

Pocket pets are defined as a small mammal that is not a dog or cat Dr Tara Dedolph, associate veterinarian at Family Pet Hospital with a specialty in pocket pets, explained, “They include rabbits, guinea pigs, hamsters, gerbils, rats, mice, chinchillas and ferrets The term can be a bit misleading though, as many breeds of rabbits can be close to 10 pounds and don’t fit in any pockets ”

Dedolph said pocket pets are “ideal for people that are looking for a quiet animal that may not take up as much space or training time as a dog or cat ” Busy families may want to consider a hamster or gerbil, which can be housed in a comparatively small enclo-

July/August 2023 LONGMONT MAGAZINE 27
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sure and “don’t require as much day-to-day interaction as other species,” she said Hamsters and gerbils live about one to three years. Rabbits, in contrast, “require a considerable degree of social interaction, are very sensitive to noise and changes in their environments and can live up to 15 years,” Dedolph said Rabbits must be delicately handled or risk a broken bone

As with many pets, “care for these animals can seem simple at first, but it is usually quite involved and unique to each species,” she said. Guinea pigs and rabbits must be fed at least every 12 hours Some can be litter box trained, but most require frequent cleaning of their enclosure.

Given the distinct needs of pocket pets, Dedolph urged potential pet owners to take time to learn about the animal they are considering before purchasing or adopting She suggested, “The best places to obtain information from are your local exotics’ veterinarian and local species-

specific rescues. There are many rescues and organizations locally that cater to rabbits, guinea pigs, rats, ferrets and more ”

After selecting a pocket pet to purchase or adopt, a potential pet owner will need to obtain their new pet’s food and enclosure According to Dedolph, “this can vary a lot between species.” For example, she said, “Rabbits require entire bedrooms or exercise pens,

rats require multi-leveled metal cages and hamsters require large glass terrariums with deep bedding ” As for toys, since animals typically chew their toys and may ingest tiny toy pieces, Dedolph recommends pet toys without artificial coloring or small plastics

Finally, all pets benefit from routine veterinary care Family Pet Hospital’s expansion from treating mostly dogs and cats to pocket pets is a reflection of the needs of the community and the growth of pocket pet ownership Sarah Puccetti Kinzer, office manager at the hospital, said, “Dr. Dedolph brings with her a deep passion for pocket pets, and we are thrilled to be able to extend our practice philosophies to the pocket pets of Longmont ”

She continued, “Our clients’ family pets are our pets We care about them deeply and are honored to serve such a wonderfully loving community of animal lovers here in Longmont.”

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July/August 2023 LONGMONT MAGAZINE 29 Unique Restaurants & Craft Beverages Eclectic Mix of Local Shops & Boutiques Community Events Year-Round Learn More at DowntownLongmont.com

ALTERNATIVE HEALTH for Paws & Hooves

Balance where she makes house calls. Her extensive training started at Colorado State University veterinary school, then she received Chinese Medicine certification in all four branches –acupuncture, herbs, food therapy, and Tui-na, AKA Chinese therapeutic massage

“When using alternative medication like herbs, alternative medicine takes longer to take effect, but with minimal side effects,” Toolan said.

When comparing Western medicine, yes, it works faster, she said, but there’s a tradeoff

side effects Take acupuncture treatments, for example, they are spread out over several sessions, which requires patience

“Chinese medicine helps the body heal, and a lot of times it gets better If it’s an acute injury it works faster, but if it has been going on for a year or longer it usually takes longer to see results ”

Except for surgical procedures, traditional Chinese vet medicine offers comprehensive treatments, similar to traditional Western vet medicine, Toolan said Common ailments she treats include back pain, neck pain, arthritis, seizures, cancer, liver and heart disease

“For cancer, basically herbs are used to slow the growth rate of tumors In Chinese medicine, herbs help animals live in harmony with the disease.”

Alternative medicine is making a splash in both human wellness and pet wellness. If you’re looking for healthy alternatives for your four-legged friends, then we have just what you need.

Check out these alternative health options for both big and small fur friends in need of some TLC

Thinking about weaning your pets off traditional pain medication? Maybe it’s time to explore the benefits of herbs and acupuncture. Dr. Lee Ann Toolan, DVM and TCVM practitioner is a rare breed She’s the founder of Longmont-based Animals in

When trying to estimate medical care costs for pets, it’s anyone’s guess what that final bill could look like A good ballpark price for alternative care is likely to run about $200 for an initial exam Always ask for prices ahead of time

Healing hands

Living an active lifestyle often comes with sore muscles and creaky joints – even in our beloved animal darlings. Tracy

30 LONGMONT MAGAZINE LongmontMagazine com
HEALTH
(Photo courtesy: HempMy Pet)
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Vroom is the executive director at Rocky Mountain School of Animal Acupressure and Massage which offers instruction at several Front Range locations including Longmont

Vroom teaches various techniques aimed at alleviating pain in both large and small animals Her specialties include canine and equine massage, plus craniosacral therapy, herbalism and animal communication

Vroom also travels cross-country applying her unique skillset to equestrian athletes with impressive resumes backed by sheer horsepower and showmanship. Lameness is a common complaint among her horse buddies Vroom treats an assortment of soft tissue ailments in horses Depending on the pain, she uses craniosacral therapy, massage and acupressure to activate healing.

Canines can’t resist her either. That’s because many dogs work hard these days, from running agility courses to service animals on active duty Plenty of poochies suffer from sore, stiff muscles Plus, our everyday couch companions often experience agerelated pain and inflammation. Thankfully, they respond well to Vroom’s healing hands

“Massage and acupressure help [dogs] regain mobility because if the muscles are healthy and have good circulation, massage and bodywork helps soften the muscles so they are more pliable,” Vroom said

“I also teach bodywork to my clients I teach the Tellington TTouch method for older dogs

with painful joints ”

The technique is easy to learn She encourages people to watch YouTube to learn more TTouch works with felines too It can ease anxiety and socialize shelter cats who lack adoptable traits –from purring and playfulness to flaunting those anime eyes.

For doggo, TTouch can correct behaviors like leash pulling and excessive barking, while deepening the pet-human connection. Vroom has helped difficult-toadopt shelter dogs become irresistibly adoptable with her massage and energy work techniques

CBD targets mental and physical ailments

Natalie Mondine, co-founder and COO of Longmont-based HempMy Pet uses her herbal medicine background to formulate hempinfused products that provide our furry friends with ways to fight pain and discomfort.

While the line of dog biscuits contains some CBD, from fullspectrum hemp seed oil, she said it’s not that much CBD

“Dog biscuits with CBD are dosed at 2 mg and 5 mg,” she said Additionally, they offer two sizes – small and large dog biscuits.

32 LONGMONT MAGAZINE LongmontMagazine com
Does Your Best Friend Suffer from Pain & Chronic Diseases? Animals in Balance can help! Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine for Dogs, Cats and Horses Acupuncture | Herbal Medicine | Food Therapy | Tui-na LeeAnn Toolan, DVM, CTCVMP 720-600-8448 www.animalsinbalance.net info@animalsinbalance.net Personalized In-Home Care.
Dr Lee Ann Toolan, founder of Longmont-based Animals in Balance (Photo: Jonathan Castner)
Murphy - Current Patient.
Pain from Arthritis.

When your pooch needs a pick-me-up, she recommends adding a few drops of HempMy Pet CBD oil to the dog biscuit

Customers give CBD oil to dogs to ease general aches and pains or apply it topically for cuts and scrapes, Mondine said Some customers apply it to their dog’s skin irritations like hot spots

The formula for horses provides 5,000 mg of fullspectrum hemp-infused oil per bottle The formula is suspended in olive oil to eliminate the need for refrigeration. Otherwise, CBD formulations should be refrigerated, she added

“Our customers with horses use it for pain and inflammation in the legs and knees or anxiety in horses when getting in and out of the trailer for transport,” she said

To help horses with cribbing, a biting behavior likely linked to stress, Mondine said some vets use CBD to help calm the horse, which has shown favorable results

All the hemp oil used is sourced from the company’s farm, Mondine said

“Our products have no preservatives and we use certified organic carrier oils with cold-pressed oil that is locally sourced – coconut oil for dogs and olive oil for horses ”

July/August 2023 LONGMONT MAGAZINE 33
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THERAPYPooches

One undeniable truth about Coloradans –we love our dogs

Sure, there are some people around here who

aren’t huge fans, but cliches aren’t created unless they’re based on truth. And the fact remains that you can’t throw a stick in this state without a pooch wanting to chase it down

Many dog owners love their pets so much that they want to

share the joy That’s why several organizations offer therapy dog services

Right fit?

So, how do you know if Spot is the right fit to bring joy (and

34 LONGMONT MAGAZINE LongmontMagazine com HEALTH
Odin and his owner Don Horton spread love at Longs Peak Hospital Odin doesn't just bring a smile to patients, but staff as well (
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Photo courtesy: UCHealth Longs Peak Hospital)

improved mental health) to more than just your home?

Tony Reyelts, the top dog with the Longmont Library’s DEAR (Dogs Enjoy Afternoon Reading) reading, answered the question with a pair of his own: Does your dog enjoy meeting new people? And does your dog enjoy being in public and handle unpredictable/ chaotic situations appropriately?

“In a perfect world, we’d be able to ask our dogs whether it is a job they would like to do,” Reyelts said “After all, we regularly ask kids, ‘What do you want to be when you grow up?’ and it’s always fun to hear their answers Since dogs can’t answer directly, we have to figure it out from observation.”

Reyelts said not only is each dog different, but there are all kinds of different opportunities for therapy dogs. For instance, the DEAR program (held the second Sunday of each month between 2-3 p m ) focuses on providing children a chance to read to dogs. This allows children to read

without pressure and at their own pace As such, the best DEAR dogs are comfortable and happy working in a big room with lots of children

Common traits

Many therapy dogs will have similar traits to each other, but some

traits can be drastically different depending on the setting For instance, the pet therapy program at Longs Peak Hospital seeks dogs that are calm and not easily distracted, are obedient and look to their handlers for direction, and love to be petted by several people, over and over

July/August 2023 LONGMONT MAGAZINE 35
Just reading emotions and faces make it easy to believe these dogs make a difference. (Photo courtesy: UCHealth Longs Peak Hospital)

In other words, according to the UCHealth Longs Peak Hospital pet therapy letter, “the first person to interact with the dog is as important and receives as much affection as the 10th ”

Don Horton, a pet therapy volunteer at Longs Peak Hospital along with his dog, Odin, loves the concept of helping ease others’ ailments by sharing the love of his pooch

“As soon as they see him, their body language changes, as if by magic,” Horton said “Immediately they are more relaxed, open, and receptive There is an ease and a joy with this interaction Conversation flows freely and openly My dog offers immediate and spontaneous love and acceptance, without judgment, regardless of who you are or what you believe. How often do we get to experience that?”

Improved health

There’s plenty of data to support

the benefits of pet therapy But just reading emotions and faces make it easy to believe these dogs make a difference

“It improves mental health and physical health,” Horton said. “Anxiety and worry recede. Pain is reduced. Blood pressure goes down The list goes on and on I can’t see all of this, but what I do see is the faces of patients and guests that are now radiant and smiling ”

Reyelts offered one other piece of advice:

“I always encourage handlers to explore the environment without their dog first so they can consider how their dog will react before bringing the dog into a new environment.”

Four Paws & CO.

Different kinds of support

One area of confusion for many is the different ways dogs and other animals can help Carri KingBussard, a psychologist who uses dogs to assist her in work, is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Colorado who also trains mental health professionals who are interested in integrating animal-assisted practice into their work

On one of her websites, Professional Therapy

Dogs of Colorado, she explains the differences between therapy dogs, service dogs and emotional service animals (supportive pets).

Therapy dogs, according to the site, are well-mannered, affectionate dogs paired with handlers, preferably in the mental health field to provide support Service dogs, meanwhile, receive intensive, customized training to help people imposed by limitations due to a disability, giving them greater independence There are also emotional support animals These have likely not received any specialist training but are there to provide comfort and love during times of stress.

Owner beware

King-Bussard and her website do warn of some obstacles and scams

“There is no ‘official’ national or international registry for service dogs or ESAs,” the website states “There is a predatory market out there that sells IDs, vests, provider letters, and other gear and promises ‘service dog certification’ and all the related privileges, but this is a scam ”

And, as a reminder, KingBussard says not to pet service dogs.

“This distracts from their critically important job, which puts their person at risk ”

So, if you think your dog has the right personality and temperament to spread joy, love and healing to others, there are plenty of options available

36 LONGMONT MAGAZINE LongmontMagazine com
“As soon as they see him, their body language changes, as if by magic.”
(Photo courtesy: UCHealth Longs Peak Hospital)
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Dog Training 101

Helping to build the partnership between guardian and dog

Having a therapy dog is the dream of many a Colorado dog owner However, not every pooch is cut out for the work. Some are a little more aggressive, whether that be toward humans, cats or other dogs

In this case, finding help from a professional can be beneficial.

Dog Days Training Center in Berthoud, open since 1999, has a long history of handling more aggressive dogs For some, according to Dog Days General

Manager Adam Shapiro, a firsttime stay of 3-4 weeks may be in order. For others, several private lessons may be just what a dog and its owner needs

“Most people that go with private lessons do at least bi-weekly, lasting a few months,” Shapiro said “We give them so much information and so much to work on, then it’s a matter of can we teach the people well enough to transfer the information into their lives?”

Dog Days focuses on building the partnership between its guardian and the dog

“That way, when you need the training it stands up in the

moment,” Shapiro said. “We focus on everything from dogs on a leash to those who live out in the wilderness and want to be able to call their dog in from roaming acres of land, and everything in between ”

Shapiro said they never just teach dogs simple tricks, but instead commands But in the end, for dogs, those end up being very similar

“We’re hyper-focused on the behavior and language of the dog and teaching the owners who that dog actually is,” Shapiro said

July/August 2023 LONGMONT MAGAZINE 37 HEALTH
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saying goodbyeat Home

More than twothirds of American households now have at least one cat or dog, and as our connection with pets has grown stronger, so too has many families’ desire to make a pet’s final days a dignified and less impersonal and traumatic experience.

Many Northern Colorado veterinarians now offer specialized at-home pet euthanasia services for older or terminally ill dogs and cats, allowing families to say goodbye to their animal without the added

discomfort of making a final trip to an animal hospital or clinic Costs vary from provider to provider, but the peace-of-mind factor is worth it to many families

Dr Rebecca Cross, a Longmont veterinarian who operates Companion Home Vet Care in addition to her day job at a traditional animal clinic, says at-home euthanasia services offer pet owners a compassionate and more connected alternative at the

end of a pet’s life

“When I was a young vet 20 years ago, house calls of any kind were not common at all, and it never occurred to me that this could be an in-demand service,” she says “I’ve been offering in-home euthanasia services since 2014, and I’ve now done work with many families who have multiple pets, but were comfortable with the way that things went the first time ”

38 LONGMONT MAGAZINE LongmontMagazine com
With pets becoming even more important to postpandemic families, a variety of at-home euthanasia providers are offering compassionate, in-home end-of-life services for old or ill animals.
HEALTH DENTISTRY • PREVENTIVE CARE • LOW STRESS (303) 485-1285 FamilyPetLongmont.com MON-FRI: 8AM-6PM SAT: 9AM-1PM 815 EAST 17TH AVENUE, Unit C-2 LONGMONT, CO 80504

Cross says the most tangible benefit is often avoiding the trauma of loading a pet into a carrier or, in some cases, simply trying to move a large dog who’s too ill or immobilized to take that final trip to the vet’s office.

“It’s a little awkward to say that I enjoy what I do, but I’m providing a good service at a tough time, and offering some comfort to families, and some peace when their pet passes, without stress,” she says. “Families are always so grateful, which is often a very different experience than seeing pet owners as an ER vet when people are stressed out and concerned about bills ”

In addition to pain management and animal acupuncture, Cross does about 8-10 end-of-life visits a month, mostly in the Longmont, Frederick and Erie areas She sometimes brings a technician and then can work with Circle of Life to provide cremation options

Dr. Chelsea McGivney is the general manager of Caring Pathways, a Colorado-based end-of-life pet care service started by Dr Larry Magnuson in 2010 McGivney says her organization has grown to include 26 staff veterinarians in Metro Denver and Northern Colorado who specialize in palliative care and at-home euthanasia – sometimes as many as 1,000 procedures a month, across the state.

“Pets are family members, and we want them to be as comfortable as possible at this last stage of life,” she says “When one of our doctors does a visit, everything slows down, and we try to make everything as positive as possible at a really difficult time Nothing feels rushed ”

McGivney says her doctors confirm a family’s wishes, including a range of burial or cremation options, as well as provide grief support documentation, and get to know a bit about the family and their

stories about their beloved pet

She emphasizes that sedation and pain control are critical parts of the final procedure, making sure that the animal is relaxed – which also helps cut down on human anxiety in those final moments – and family members are given time to be alone with the animal afterward

Caring Pathways’ model has become popular enough to add providers in Virginia and North Carolina, and McGivney says the practice recently held a local Continuing Education event for other Colorado veterinarians to learn more about providing the service as part of their whole-life care for pets and their families

> Companion Vet Care 720 240 7701 companionhomevetcare com

> Caring Pathways 970.236.7100

aringpathways.com

July/August 2023 LONGMONT MAGAZINE 39
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40 LONGMONT MAGAZINE LongmontMagazine com
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July/August 2023 LONGMONT MAGAZINE 41 The Stonum Dogs ask: “Is Your Car Running “RUFF? “Foxy” Stonum “Omar” Stonum High “Tail” it to Stonum Automotive Stonum Automotive 303-485-9303 www.stonumautomotive.com 1812 Sunset Place (corner Sunset & Ken Pratt Bl.) 4 Wheel Alignment $20OFF Not valid with any other offers. Expires 8/30/23 10% OFF Labor Up to $50 maximum discount. Not valid with any other offers. Expires 8/30/23 Not valid with any other offers. Expires 8/30/23 (R1234yf and R134a) A/C Service $25 OFF “Foxy” Stonum “Omar” Stonum High “Tail” it to Stonum Automotive for Honest Car Care & Repair “Foxy” Stonum “Omar” Stonum The Stonum Dogs ask: Is Your Car Running “RUFF?“RUFF? “RUFF? LONGMONT!! THANK YOU AGAIN WINNER for 2022!! #1 BEST FAST FOOD RESTAURANT #1 BEST ICE CREAM / FROZEN CUSTARD #1 BEST RESTAURANT FOR KIDS Locally Owned & Operated by the Stentz Family Happy Hour 2-5pm Daily Buy One Dessert Get One FREE! #1 BEST FAST FOOD RESTAURANT #1 BEST ICE CREAM / FROZEN CUSTARD #1 BEST RESTAURANT FOR KIDS 25% OFF Entire Order Expires 8/30/23. Coupon Not Valid With Online Ordering Or With Kids Meal Purchases. Reproductions of this coupon are not accepted. Not valid with any other offer Value 1/200 cent. Limit one coupon per person per visit. Valid at the Longmont Location Only. Visit CULVERS.com 1218 S. Hover Rd 720.600.6787 Just West of Sam’s Club on Hover!

Music & Meals

AT BLUE MOUNTAIN VINEYARDS

Photos courtesy: blue mountain vineyards

Mark your calendars every Thursday evening this summer for Music and Meals at Blue Mountain Vineyards. The ongoing event enters its second year and features live music and different food trucks each week.

Laura Billington, production manager for Blue Mountain Vineyards, says the event is just another way owners Bill and

Christie Prewitt are growing their venue, something they’ve been doing since the very beginning

“They moved out here to the property about 25 years ago When they bought the property, it was only a dirt field with some cows There was no landscaping or anything like that. Anything customers see is credited to Bill and Christie,” she says “There is 35 acres total About five acres hold the vineyards of the grapes we grow on site. All of the trees, landscaping and vines Bill and Christie did themselves over the years ”

The couple extended the tasting room about five years ago, including indoor seating and an outdoor patio

“If the weather is nice then people can enjoy their wine outside,” Billington says

The venue has a capacity for 60 people inside and outside about 30 people, providing a great space for music and meals

“We did it last summer, but it was our trial period of seeing what worked and getting relationships established with musicians and food trucks This is the first year we’ve ramped it up. The word is getting out more and more,” she says.

Billington says they find their musicians by word of mouth Musicians usually play for about two hours “We build our Rolodex with musicians more and more each year Musicians set up under a covered patio if the weather is nice The doors to the tasting room are opened so those inside can enjoy the music too

“With food trucks we like to keep it local, hosting food trucks from Longmont, Ft Collins, the Northern Colorado area. We coordinate who can come each week. We’ve established good relationships with all of them,” she says

When it comes to wine, Billington says the most popular white wine is the Gewurztraminer. According to the website, it’s a slightly sweet wine with wonderful tropical fruit flavor,

42 LONGMONT MAGAZINE LongmontMagazine com
FOOD
Music and Meals takes place every Thursday evening this summer at Blue Mountain Vineyards Blue Mountain Vineyards produces a variety of wines to choose from and offers tasting hours on various days.

and a nice tangy finish, excellent with spicy meats, turkey and cheese

“The top favorite year over year for reds is Marley’s Blend, named after the owner’s dog.”

Marley’s Blend is a red wine made from all of the grapes that are grown at Blue Mountain Vineyards.

“Marley’s leaves a hint of tart cherry and almond on the palate with the same cherry with spice on the nose. Pair with hard or blue cheeses and steak Enjoy with chocolate to get a cherry jubilee note Named in honor of our late furry friend; Marley.”

Billington says the vineyard also produces a variety of wines, including Port-style dessert wine

Beyond the Music and Meals event, Blue Mountain Vineyards offers open tasting hours on various days, private event rentals and other events open to the community like Buti + Wine. Blue Mountain Vineyard’s Facebook page describes Buti as combining “primal flow, cardio dance, and

deep core toning into a powerful form of movement and release Buti encourages you to sweat with intention, to let go of what no longer serves you, and invite in more self-love and openness The beat-driven movements force you out of your head and into your body, allowing you to not THINK about how you move, but how you FEEL when moving Buti celebrates all ages, all fitness levels, all body types, all people.”

Blue Mountain offers the opportunity to come to the class taught by a professional Yogi and receive a complimentary glass of a Blue Mountain Vineyards wine of your choice with your purchase of a ticket

> To find out more details about Music and Meals, visit the website coloradobluemountain. com or visit their Facebook and Instagram pages: facebook com/ bluemountainvineyardsberthoud and on Instagram at bluemountainvineyardsberthoud.

July/August 2023 LONGMONT MAGAZINE 43
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JULY-AUGUST

Want to know where to go and what to see in Longmont? Look no further! We’ve gathered events of all varieties in one place, just for you.

SUMMER ON THE STREETS FESTIVAL

Sat.,July 8,4-8 p.m.

Sat ,Aug 12,4-8 p m

Firehouse Art Center 667 4th Ave.,Longmont

Summer on the Streets 2023Firehouse Art Center Summer on the Streets and ArtWalk on Main are back We will have a Summer Street Festival every second Saturday,in conjunction with the Downtown Creative Crawl This series of Summer Festivals in Downtown provides the community with consistent 2nd Saturday events filled with art,music and culture while creating unique opportunities for fun that make Downtown a “must go” monthly destination (firehouseart org/ summeronthestreets)

THURSDAY NIGHTS @ THE MUSEUM

Presented by the City of Longmont

Thursday nights,

June 15-July 27, 7 p.m.

Longmont Museum

400 Quail Road,Longmont

Spend your Thursday evenings at the Longmont Museum or adult Art & Sip classes,exhibits,film, live music and conversations in our intimate 250-seat Stewart Auditorium.In the summer,Thursday Nights @ the Museum transforms into its free outdoor concert series in the courtyard! (longmontcolorado.gov)

SUMMER CONCERT SERIES

Presented by the City of Longmont

Thursday nights

June 15-July 27,7-8:30 p.m.

Longmont Museum, 400 Quail Road,Longmont

Stretch out and enjoy some tunes, from up-and-coming local bands to established regional and national musicians,in the Museum’s courtyard (longmontcolorado gov)

“AGRICULTURE: ART INSPIRED BY

carnival,live entertainment in the Fair Garden,Kid’s Corral and Petting Zoo and your favorite fair foods, along with 4-H animal projects, the Dairy Bar and a live in-person junior livestock sale! Carnival rides, livestock,live music and more! (bouldercountyfair.org)

RHYTHM AT ROOSEVELT

Presented by City of Longmont

Saturday,Sept.16

Roosevelt Park

700 Longs Peak Ave ,Longmont

Presented by Longmont Museum

June 10-January 7, 7-8:30 p.m. Various locations across Longmont

A collaborative, contemporary art exhibit pairing more than 15 artists with Boulder County farmers to create new, site-specific visual works inspired by farming and the natural world $8 adults, $5 students/seniors Free for children 3 and under (longmontcolorado.gov/ departments/departments-e-m/ museum)

BOULDER COUNTY FAIR

Thurs.,Aug.10-Sun.Aug.13

Boulder County Fairgrounds 9595 Nelson Road,Longmont

The Boulder County Fair is the oldest fair in Colorado celebrating its 154th year The 2023 Boulder County Fair will be open to the public Aug.1013 Returning with many of the fun events and activities you remember from fairs past Come enjoy the

Rhythm on the River is more than a music festival: it’s fun for the whole family! Join us for arts and crafts, bounce houses,bungee swings, adventure climbing,the 5K River Run race and the St Vrain Rotary’s annual rubber Duck Race. (longmontcolorado gov)

UNITY IN THE COMMUNITY

Presented by Longmont Chamber

Fri.,Aug.25,4-9 p.m.

Roosevelt Park

700 Longs Peak Ave ,Longmont

Fun for the whole family,Unity in the Community is an outdoor street festival that combines live music and entertainment with the nonprofits, businesses,and elected officials that help our community to thrive

(longmontchamber.org)

44 LONGMONT MAGAZINE LongmontMagazine com
THE LAND” EXHIBIT
CALENDAR
Wyatt’s is Pet Friendly! Longmont’s Largest Liquor Store Wyatt’s is Pet Friendly!

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