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Pet Connection Fall 2021

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Pet Connection Southern Lakes

A Southern Lakes Newspapers publication

• Training tips • Small pet options • Adopt a pet

FALL 2021


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Training effectively

Try positive reinforcement when addressing pets’ behavioral issues The American Kennel Club says that was classical conditioning because the dogs salivated involuntarily. However, operant training conditioning is when dogs learn to associate their behavior with certain results, all the while learning there are good and bad outcomes. The goal is to increase behaviors with pleasant consequences, such as receiving a reward. Experts say that by focusing on the positive, pet owners will see fewer side effects than negative punishment training, such as aggression, fear, anxiety, and avoidance. Timing is the key to positive reinforcement training. The reward must occur immediately after the desired behavior or the pet may not associate it with the proper action. So if the dog sits, then the reward has to come as soon as it gets on the floor. If the reward comes when he has stood back up, then the pooch may think the reward is for standing. When practicing positive reinforcement, keep commands short and training sessions

It may take time for a pet to acclimate to commands and training. But with patience, positive reinforcement can be effective. STOCK PHOTO Pet Connection

brief so that dogs can understand before they get restless. Dogs don’t understand sentences, says HSUS, and they will lose interest if sessions are too long. Consistency also is essential. Each person interacting with the pet should use the same commands and cues to achieve the desired result, which is a well-behaved pet. (METRO CREATIVE)

Southern Lakes

Pet Connection Fall 2021

Published by Southern Lakes Newspapers LLC 1102 Ann St., Delavan, WI 53115 (262) 728-3411 Editor: Tracy Ouellette Section Designer: Jen DeGroot Creative/Production Manager: Heather Ruenz Advertising Director: Vicki Vanderwerff

PET CONNECTION • FALL 2021

What can pet owners do when their pets exhibit unwanted behaviors, such as damaging furniture or jumping up on people? The first instinct may be to yell or punish the pet by being cross with him or her. However, many animal behaviorists believe that positive reinforcement training is the most effective way to address pets’ behavioral issues. Positive reinforcement training, according to The Humane Society of the United States, utilizes rewards for desired behaviors. The reward, whether it is a treat, praise, toys, or anything the pet finds rewarding, will eventually get the pet to repeat the behavior that earned him or her that reward. Rather than punishing a bad behavior, pet owners who utilize positive reinforcement reward good behaviors. Positive reinforcement also is known as operant conditioning. It is a similar concept studied by famed Russian physiologist Ivan Pavlov. When the dinner bell rang, Pavlov’s dogs salivated.

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Make vet visits easier for all involved PET CONNECTION • FALL 2021

People often get anxious about visiting the doctor, and the same can be said for pets. According to the online animal resource Top Dog Tips, a lot of dogs and cats have serious anxiety about going to the vet. Veterinarian visits typically happen once per year, and the earlier your pet can become more comfortable and acclimated to the process, the better it will behave during each subsequent visit. The following are some steps pet owners can take to make vet visits go smoothly.

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Handle your pet frequently Teach your pet to accept touching of the paws, ears, mouth, tail, legs, and stomach. Regular sessions petting and touching your pet may make him or her more comfortable when the vet has to do so.

Consider waiting outside

Find the right veterinarian

Research from Companion Animal Psychology says 30 percent of dogs are highly stressed while sitting in the waiting room of the vet’s office. It can be hectic in the waiting room, with lots of new smells, people coming in and out and animals with all sorts of energy. If waiting rooms put your pet on edge, wait outside.

Interview several vets to find an office and staff who love interacting with your pet and can make him or her comfortable.

Associate the carrier with comfort If you pull out the crate only when the pet will be going to the vet, the animal will soon associate it with negative experiences. Instead, use the crate frequently and rely on treats so that the dog or cat sees it as a safe and fun space to spend its time. Take frequent car rides to different destinations so pets don’t associate car rides with vet visits.

Stay relaxed yourself Pets can sense their owner’s energy. If you are worked up and anxious, then your animal may feed off of those feelings. By remaining calm, you can help keep your pet calm.

Do a practice visit Acclimate the pet to the vet’s office with a trial run. This way he or she can interact with the vet and learn the smells and sounds under less stressful conditions. This is a great way for the pet to have a positive initial experience with its new vet.

Vet visits are vital to pets’ long-term health. Setting the stage for positive experiences early on can make visits go smoothly throughout the pet’s life. STOCK PHOTO Pet Connection

(METRO CREATIVE)


Get to know the bearded dragon

Lizards like the bearded dragon can be a great option for people looking for an exotic pet. STOCK PHOTO Pet Connection

anywhere from 8 to 14 years. • These lizards are gentle by nature and it is very rare to hear of an aggressive bearded dragon, especially toward humans. That can make them a safe first pet for children. • Routine care for bearded dragons includes providing full-spectrum lighting for 12 to 14 hours a day. Beardies will need a type of bright white light to serve as a basking spot, which should be around 95 to 102 F for adults, advises BeardedDragon. org. Heat rocks are not advised because they can cause serious burns. • Bearded dragons are omnivorous, meaning they dine on both plant and animal matter. Crickets and fresh greens should be given daily. However, keep food to no bigger than the space between the eyes of the lizard, otherwise it can cause digestive impaction when consumed. Locusts, cockroaches, waxworms, and silkworms also can be offered. Stick to food sourced from pet shops, as wild backyard insects may have been exposed to poisons.

• Bearded dragons will grow accustomed to being handled and stroked. They also can be trained to walk on leashes. Some will enjoy swimming in shallow water. • Even though they can be social pets, bearded dragons should not be housed with other bearded dragons. (METRO CREATIVE)

PET CONNECTION • FALL 2021

Reptile enthusiasts may want to open their homes to pets that cater to their love of cold-blooded creatures. If uniqueness is pet owners’ goal, bearded dragons should fit the bill. The bearded dragon is a medium-sized lizard (12 to 24 inches) that hails from Australia’s desert regions. Bearded dragons are among the most popular lizards in both North America and Europe, according to the animal information site Wildlife Informer. A number of traits as well as relative ease of care contribute to the popularity of “beardies,” as many people affectionately refer to them. The following are some fun facts for those considering bearded dragons as pets. • These lizards are relatively sedentary animals. Despite that, they have the capacity to run up to nine miles per hour, says PetMD. So if you let your beardie out of its aquarium, keep an eye out or the lizard may sprint away. • Bearded dragons get their names from the spiny projection scales just under their necks that are thought to resemble a man’s beard. They can puff out their beards when excited or when they feel threatened. • When the “beard” is used as a mating call, a beardie has the potential to change its scales to black. • Bearded dragons are intelligent animals. Scientists say they communicate and address familiar friends and even humans by waving their arms. Owners have reported their pets waving at them, signaling they recognize familiar faces. • In order to be able to grow to its full size, a bearded dragon will need an adequately sized aquarium. Leave enough room so that the lizard can move around comfortably even as it grows. • In terms of longevity, a bearded dragon can live

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A big personality in a small package Birds can bring energy and excitement into a home when they are kept as pets. Their musical tunes and sweet chirps add something special, particularly for people looking for a pet that doesn’t require the same level of care as say a cat or a dog. Small birds, such as parakeets (budgies) and cockatiels long have been popular pets. But in recent years another type of bird has risen in popularity: the parrotlet. As the name implies, parrotlets are the smallest birds in the parrot family. Even though they are small in size, they are big on personality. In fact, parrotlets may act like they are full-sized parrots. Individuals who long have had the desire to own a parrot, but do not have the

room nor the experience for such a bird often find a parrotlet is a great compromise. The following information can help pet owners get to know parrotlets a little better.

Handling is key

Parrotlets need to be socialized to blend into the household. Daily handling by multiple people is recommended so that they do not become oneperson birds. All parrots have the potential to nip at people’s fingers, and handling while setting boundaries can enhance their tameness.

Spunky personality

Parrotlets are outgoing, curious, playful, fearless, and enjoy human companionship. • CONTINUED ON PAGE 10

Parrotlets are feisty birds that can bring some extra personality into any home. STOCK PHOTO Pet Connection

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A warm embrace, a thoughtful gift, a love letter – these are a few ways that people show and feel affection. Like us, pets crave affection too. Pets provide so much love and companionship to people, and they deserve to feel that love in return. Just as each pet has their own personality, they also have their own love language – things that make them feel loved. Maybe that’s going for walks, earning a treat, getting scratches behind the ear, playing fetch or other ways they feel special. There are many things you can do to show your pets you care. Knowing their preferred love language can help you create special moments each day to grow an even stronger bond.

Love languages between pets and humans A new study from the makers of Seresto provides insight into the unique relationship between people and pets. For many pet owners, their dog or cat is more than just a pet - they’re a companion, a loved one and a best friend. According to the research, three-in-five pet owners say their pet is their true best friend over a human. And

that bond only gets stronger when you understand each other’s love languages. Ever wonder why your pet is always at your heels? Many dogs and cats show their humans love by being physically close. Research shows the top way pets show love is by cuddling, greeting you when you get home and following you around or simply wanting to be in the same room. And every pet owner has their own way of showing love to their pets. In fact, 75% of pet owners are most likely to express their love by playing with their dog or cat, while 70% give extra attention and treats. Others say they express love by talking to and praising their pets, petting and cuddling with them or taking care of their health. Every pet is different, so observe what makes your pet feel special and make that expression of love part of your daily routine.

How pets make our lives better Understanding the love languages between pets and humans is important because pets can have a significant impact on our emotional growth. According to the survey, most pet owners agree that

their pet has helped them learn more about themselves, and even made them a better person. When asked about the top benefit of having a pet, 68% of pet owners say that keeping us company is the top benefit, while others believe it’s unconditional love (63%) and improving our mood (61%). Parents have also reported how having a pet has positively impacted their family. About half of parents surveyed shared that their pets keep their children company and entertained, while also making them feel loved and comforted. Beyond companionship, two-in-five parents say having a pet has helped teach their children empathy and responsibility. Seresto cherishes the bond between pet owners and their pets and wants to celebrate the love languages we share with our pets. It’s those little things you learn about each other that make the companionship of having a pet such a special relationship. Learn more at Seresto.com. (BPT)

Our pets take care of us in so many ways, and it’s important we take care of them, too. STOCK PHOTO Pet Connection

PET CONNECTION • FALL 2021

Build a stronger bond with your pet through love languages

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Sssss …

Ideal snakes for beginners Snakes long have been popular pets for those enamored with scaled creatures. According to Reptile Guide, mammals are biologically inclined to be wary of snakes in their environment, and that may be one reason why snakes are often painted in a negative light. But snakes aren’t all sneaky and sinister. In fact, many types of snakes make ideal pets. With around 3,500 species, there’s likely a snake for everyone.

Corn snake

This is a popular snake species. It’s very docile and doesn’t mind gentle handling. Plus, corn snakes reach a maximum length of between three and five feet, which is a manageable size for beginners.

African house snake

Beginners also may find African house snakes are easily managed. Thanks to their small size, these snakes can live their entire lives in a typical 20-gallon aquarium tank.

Ball python

The ball python is an iconic pet snake. It is wildly popular among reptile enthusiasts and is even a favorite among beginners. Ball pythons aren’t always up for handling right off the bat. It takes time to build up trust with this snake and help it grow accustomed to human interaction.

Western hognose snake

Native to the Great Plains of America, these snakes have similar coloring to rattlesnakes and often are mistaken for them. Unlike the traditional triangular head of most snakes, this snake has an upturned snout that gives the Western hognose its name. The snake also can flatten its body to create a cobra-like hood and even may “play dead.”

Tarahumara locality boa constrictor

There are many varieties of boa

When doing their research, potential snake owners are advised to speak to experts in the trade to learn more about specific species and their care needs. STOCK PHOTO Pet Connection

constrictor, many of which are large. The Tarahumara stays smaller in size, rarely ever growing more than five feet long, states Reptile Guide. Boas don’t stress easily and can be kept in plastic enclosures to ensure humidity requirements are met. • CONTINUED ON PAGE 10

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Adopting a new cat? 5 TIPS FOR NEW CAT PARENTS limited mobility who are in need of companionship. If you are considering opening your home to a new cat, here are some tips to help make the transition easier – both for you and for them:

Prep your home ahead of time Before you go to pick up your new cat or kitten, make sure you’re all set up with the appropriate supplies. Here is a quick checklist of things to do and buy: • Crate or carrier to safely bring home your new feline friend; • Food dish and appropriate food for your kitten or adult cat; • Water dish; • Quiet area to set up food and water; • Litter box, litter scoop and litter (if you have more than one cat, supply one box per cat so they have adequate space); • Cats are very curious, so remove breakables on shelves or tables that cats

could access; and • Make sure you have no ductwork, HVAC registers or other holes that could be hazardous – or cover them up.

Choose a ‘starting room’ When you first introduce your cat to their new home, pick one room to isolate them for a few days so they can slowly get used to the new sights, sounds and smells of your home. It should be the same room where their litter box is kept, so they’ll know that location from the start. Make sure to supply your new furry friend with clean water and food. After a few days in the starting room, gradually open up more rooms of the house so your cat can explore. If you’re introducing them to other animals in the house, do so very gradually. Let them get used to each other’s smells first by • CONTINUED ON PAGE 10

Cats make excellent pets, especially for those who live in apartments or other areas with limited green space, which would be needed for a dog. STOCK PHOTO Pet Connection

PET CONNECTION • FALL 2021

Welcoming a new cat or kitten into your home is an exciting event. However, like any new experience, it can feel daunting to prepare your home for your new furry family member. Now is the peak season for finding kittens and adult cats available for adoption, as it’s the height of the kitten season. And of course, there are always wonderful adult and senior cats in need of forever homes, all year round. Cats are great pets for apartment dwellers or people who live in areas with limited green space. Cats are also an excellent option for those with

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SMALL PACKAGE

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They may chirp at their owners when they’re not the center of attention, and they can be trained to spend time outside of the cage. Parrotlets have the potential to get into all kinds of mischief, so they need to be watched and have frequent interaction, including new toys to challenge them.

Vocal, but not too vocal

Apartment dwellers should rest assured that while parrotlets may be quite the chatterboxes, their vocal abilities are not so loud as to be problematic. Parrotlets do

NEW CAT

not scream. ParrotSecrets.com says that parrotlets frequently learn to talk, but with patience. A parrotlet has around a 300-word threshold, according to the pet resource PetKeen.

Offer them a cozy hideout Cats love small, enclosed places where they’ll feel safe and secure. You can leave a cat carrier open or supply a cardboard box or covered cat bed. Make sure the box or carrier is big enough for the cat to stand up and move around in. Put down a soft blanket or towel to make the box comfy. If possible, position the box or carrier so it faces the door to the room. That way they won’t be startled by people or other pets entering.

Visit the vet After adopting a new cat, it’s always a good idea to have it checked out by a veterinarian as soon as possible. You’ll

Parrotlets, like other small birds, should stay in an environment with a consistent temperature and away from drafts. Cages Expect some favoritism should not be placed in direct sunlight, and While parrotlets can get along with many the birds do better in square or rectangular people in the family, they tend to gravitate cages. Seed for small birds as well as fresh toward a favorite. That person will receive vegetable and fruit offerings are tolerated. the bulk of the bird’s affection. Parrotlets Check with a veterinarian or bird expert as can be stubborn and sometimes sassy. to which fresh foods are acceptable. (METRO CREATIVE) Again, to reduce problematic biting, strong

want to immediately get a sense of health issues and any special care that may be required. If your cat is adopted from an animal shelter, they may have recommendations for vets in your area.

Let them come to you A new cat will likely be nervous at first. Give them time to become accustomed to their surroundings without rushing them or pushing them to be affectionate. If you’re quiet and still, they are more likely to come out and visit. Teach your children to wait patiently for the cat to come to them – and they will be rewarded over time. If your children aren’t used to cats, make sure to supervise them the first few weeks. You can gently coax your cat to interact with a fun feather toy or tempting treats, and it won’t be too long before they’re ready to socialize – and to show you

adopt-a-pet truett

how happy they are to be living in their welcoming new home. Are you ready to adopt a new cat or kitten? Learn more about how you can support animal rescue efforts, foster or adopt a new pet at PetSmartCharities.org.

SNAKES • CONTINUED FROM PAGE 8

Milk snake

For those who desire a brightly colored snake, the milk snake features stripes of red, black and yellow-orange. However, they are mostly nocturnal and throughout the day the snake will rest and remain hidden, according to Reptile Direct. When they are on the move, milk snakes will try to blend in with their surroundings. These are just some of the snakes that may be good for beginners. (METRO CREATIVE)

These lovable animals are all up for adoption and hoping you’ll give them a happy new home!

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Typical bird care

• CONTINUED FROM PAGE 9

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Animal shelters have a surplus of pets ready for adoption. STOCK PHOTO Pet Connection

Three reasons to adopt a pet right now If you’ve always wanted an animal companion, or even if you already have a dog or cat but have room for more, now is the perfect time to adopt a pet. While there are plenty of good reasons to adopt a furry friend – from the joy they bring to the love and care you can provide them – there are even more urgent reasons to consider doing so now.

Shelters are in crisis

Many pet shelters are currently

overcrowded due to the overwhelming number of pets in need. But contrary to some recent headlines, this increase is not due to higher numbers of relinquishment of pets adopted during the past year. Fortunately, most people who adopted animals during the pandemic are keeping their pets, but intake levels have still grown exponentially with shelters seeing near record level increase in adoptable pets in the past several weeks and months. According to Petfinder, a searchable pet adoption resource and network of more than 11,000 shelters and rescue organizations, several factors have resulted in this influx of adoptable pets, including: • Spaying and neutering efforts decreased. Due to the pandemic, many programs to spay and neuter animals came

to a halt, leading to an influx of kittens and puppies in need of adoption. • Natural disasters. A surge of increased need is also due to recent natural disasters such as fires, hurricanes and flooding. Animals who lost their homes and have been displaced need immediate care from shelters that are already overcrowded. • Staff and volunteer shortage. The pandemic led to a dramatic decrease in available staff and volunteers. Shelters rely heavily on community volunteers, so staff turnover has made it harder to keep up with the increased intake. • Shutdowns. Many shelters, especially smaller ones, have temporarily or permanently closed since the pandemic • CONTINUED ON PAGE 13

PET CONNECTION • FALL 2021

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Common cat health concerns

Content to keep to themselves most of the time, cats have a reputation of being more low maintenance pets than their canine counterparts. While they are very good at self-maintenance, cats are vulnerable to various illnesses and other health issues. It is imperative for cat owners to recognize symptoms of common conditions and seek veterinary help to keep cats as healthy as they can be.

vulnerable to flea infestation. Hair loss, skin infections, flea dirt on the skin, and constant scratching and licking are signs of flea infestation. If left untreated, fleas can cause anemia.

Feline immunodeficiency virus

Another virus that can affect cats’ immune systems, FIV is slow-acting and may not show symptoms until years after initial infection. Cats may experience secondary infections as the virus takes hold. FIV is transmitted by deep bite wounds, during gestation or during birth.

Panleukopenia

Commonly called Panleuk or feline distemper, this is a virulent virus in the parovirus group. It is common among feral cats or other areas where large congregations of cats gather. PetMD says almost every cat will come in contact with this virus early in its life. Treatment for feline distemper occurs on a case by case basis, though fluid therapy to prevent dehydration and maintain blood pressure is a common course of treatment.

Deafness

Many kittens are born without the ability to hear. It is more common in white cats with two blue eyes.

Tapeworms

Feline lower urinary tract disease

Estimates suggest as many as 3 percent of cats who visit the vet have FLUTD, which is a group of diseases with multiple causes. Symptoms include drinking more, straining to urinate, urinating in unusual places, crying while urinating, licking around the urethra, lack of appetite, and vomiting.

Feline leukemia virus

Feline leukemia was discovered in the 1960s and is one of the most commonly diagnosed causes of disease in domestic cats. FelV can severely inhibit a cat’s

STOCK PHOTO Pet Connection

immune system, advises the ASPCA.

Fleas

Cats are subjected to various parasites, including fleas. Cats that spend time both outside and indoors may be especially

High-rise syndrome

Unscreened windows pose a danger for curious cats. Falling from an elevated area can cause severe injuries. Contrary to popular belief, cats don’t always land on their feet. The danger is so prevalent that veterinary professionals have dubbed this “high-rise syndrome.” (METRO CREATIVE)

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began due to the lack of funding and resources. This has also led to overcrowding at locations that have remained open.

Overcrowded shelters

For animals, an overcrowded shelter may mean a longer stay in an already stressful environment. The constant stimulation of nearby animals, along with extended confinement and less human contact due to staffing challenges at many shelters can take an emotional and developmental toll on pets waiting to find their forever families. Kittens and puppies in particular are less likely to get the socialization they need with humans to keep them happy, healthy and ready for adoption. “Despite shelter staff doing all they can to create a welcoming environment for pets, longer stays at shelters can be detrimental to an animal’s mental health,” said Jessica Arnold, Manager of Petfinder

Shelter Partner Engagement at Purina. “The shelter environment can be stressful for pets, and not all of them handle it well. So, the sooner they are adopted and taken out of that environment, the sooner they will acclimate to a new forever home.” Overcrowding at shelters can have an emotional and psychological impact on employees too. Shelter staff can experience burnout due to the stress of caring for animals during a crisis, which ultimately leads to an already high turnover rate (almost 100%) – and new staff may have an even harder time adjusting to the stress and urgent needs of pets in their care.

The right fit

It’s never been easier to find your perfect pet match. As the leading authority on pet nutrition, welfare and adoption, Purina and Petfinder encourage anyone interested in adopting to visit Petfinder.com or use the Petfinder

app to connect with the largest network of shelters with adoptable pets. Recent Petfinder technology enhancements now make it even easier for shelters to upload pictures and bios of pets up for adoption, so people can find their ideal match online quickly and seamlessly. If you’re unsure of what pet is perfect for you and your lifestyle, you can take a 60-second quiz on Petfinder.com to help find your furry match. In addition to adopting a pet, fostering or volunteering at a local shelter or pet rescue are also great ways to help pets and the people who are caring for them as they wait for loving homes. Adopting or fostering a pet impacts the pet you are bringing into your family and makes room for another lovable animal at the shelter. And volunteering not only supports shelter staff, it means more loving interactions, enrichment and attention for pets when they need it most. (BPT)

PET CONNECTION • FALL 2021

ADOPT

Cats are vulnerable to various medical conditions and illnesses. Pet owners can do their research to ensure their companion animals get the care they need.

This internal parasite can rob a cat of nutrients as it resides in the small intestines. Tapeworms can sometimes grow to two feet in length. Weight loss and vomiting are potential symptoms. Owners may see a tapeworm coming out of their cat’s anus while the cat is sleeping or relaxed.

13


adopt-a-pet EMILIO

STRANGER

Domestic Medium Hair Mix 3 Years • Neutered Male

Domestic Short Hair Mix 6 Years • Neutered Male

Lakeland Animal Shelter 262-723-1000

Lakeland Animal Shelter 262-723-1000

KCG ACCOUNTING SERVICES 262-895-7702

PLYMOUTH CHILDREN’S CENTER 262-763-5470

Sponsored by:

Sponsored by:

EVA

Domestic Short Hair Mix 1 Year • Spayed Female

Shiba Inu Mix 8 Years • Spayed Female

Lakeland Animal Shelter 262-723-1000

Lakeland Animal Shelter 262-723-1000

THE RAULAND AGENCY, INC. 262-275-2185

WISHING WELL FLORIST 262-723-6677

Sponsored by:

Sponsored by:

405087

405085

SPUD

marley

Terrier, American Pit Bull Mix 2 Years • Neutered Male

Spaniel Mix • 5 Years Neutered Male • Adult Only

Lakeland Animal Shelter 262-723-1000

Lakeland Animal Shelter 262-723-1000

WESTENN HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING 262-723-4955

UNION GROVE LUMBER & TRUE VALUE 262-878-1214

Sponsored by:

Sponsored by:

405090

405089

ZION

KORBYN

Domestic Short Hair Mix 10 Years • Neutered Male

Domestic Short Hair Mix 4 Months • Neutered Male

Lakeland Animal Shelter 262-723-1000

Lakeland Animal Shelter 262-723-1000

FOX VALLEY VETERINARY SERVICE 262-534-6000

K & B ACCOUNTING 262-728-3477

Sponsored by:

Sponsored by:

405081

405082

MEARA

SWEETS

Domestic Short Hair Mix 1 Year • Spayed Female

Domestic Short Hair Mix 2 Years • Spayed Female

Lakeland Animal Shelter 262-723-1000

Lakeland Animal Shelter 262-723-1000

MOLITOR PET & BIRD CLINIC 262-763-8113

MEALY FUNERAL HOME 262-534-2233

Sponsored by:

Sponsored by:

SANDY

405078

405080

SMILEY

Terrier, American Staffordshire Mix 2 Years • Spayed Female

Chihuahua, Short Coat Mix 10 Years • Spayed Female

Lakeland Animal Shelter 262-723-1000

Lakeland Animal Shelter 262-723-1000

DAIRY QUEEN GRILL & CHILL 262-534-6060

M.E. & MY PETS, LLC 262-473-8350

Sponsored by:

Sponsored by:

405073

405075

PET CONNECTION • FALL 2021

405084

405083

FERN

14

These lovable animals are all up for adoption and hoping you’ll give them a happy new home!


adopt-a-pet odin & luna

Akbash/Cattle Mix Pups, age 6 months. Smart and friendly Pups. www.tinypawssmalldogrescue.org

Contact Vicki - 262-496-9324

niu niu

Chinese Rural Dog survived China abusive street life. So forgiving and loving. www.tinypawssmalldogrescue.org

Contact Vicki - 262-496-9324

Sponsored by:

Sponsored by:

kip

Akbash/Cattle Mix, age 6 months. Smart and friendly. www.tinypawssmalldogrescue.org

Contact Vicki - 262-496-9324

carmel house apartments affordable senior living • 847-746-5588

405023

405022

gypsy glen k-9 kastle 815-385-8585

PEPITA

Pom CHIH, age 8. Will be your BEST FRIEND!!! www.tinypawssmalldogrescue.org

Contact Vicki - 262-496-9324

Sponsored by:

Sponsored by:

PePPer

caravelle lighting 815-678-4558 • www.caravellelight.com

405025

405024

radish

Age 5 months. Sweet, neutered boy. Loves his sister Radish. www.tinypawssmalldogrescue.org

Age 5 months. Shy spayed girl. Would like to stay with her brother Pepper.

Contact Sherry - 262-705-0731

Contact Sherry - 262-705-0731

www.tinypawssmalldogrescue.org

Sponsored by:

Sponsored by:

RAE

harmony village - over 55 Community

847-526-5000 • www.harmonyvillageseniorhousing.com

405029

405026

nature’s feed spring grove, il 60081

RUGER

Boxer Mix 6.5 Years • Spayed Female

Schnauzer, Standard Mix 4.5 Years • Neutered Male

Lakeland Animal Shelter 262-723-1000

Lakeland Animal Shelter 262-723-1000

ALL DOG GROOMING 262-210-5262

DANIELS FAMILY FUNERAL HOMES & CREMATORY 262-763-3434

Sponsored by:

Sponsored by:

405064

405062

REGGIE

JEORGE

German Shepard Mix 10 Years • Neutered Male

American Blue Heeler Mix 5 Months • Neutered Male

Lakeland Animal Shelter 262-723-1000

Lakeland Animal Shelter 262-723-1000

SOUTHERN LAKES PLUMBING 262-723-6422

LYLE’S TV & APPLIANCE 262-723-3477

Sponsored by:

Sponsored by:

405068

405066

LULU

ISLA

Vizsla, Smooth Haired/Weimaraner 2 Years • Spayed Female

American Blue Heeler Mix 5 Months • Spayed Female

Lakeland Animal Shelter 262-723-1000

Lakeland Animal Shelter 262-723-1000

LOLLI PUPS PET RESORT 262-728-2900

BTOWN AUTO SERVICE 262-767-9007

Sponsored by:

Sponsored by:

405072

405070

PET CONNECTION • FALL 2021

animal hospital of lake villa 847-746-5588 • www.lakevillavet.com

These lovable animals are all up for adoption and hoping you’ll give them a happy new home!

15


YOUR PET HEADQUARTERS

Pet supplies for dogs, cats and wild birds- all in one stop! • Food and specialty blends • Cat litter and furniture • Treats and toys

• Training and leashes • Health and dental care • Carriers and bedding

• Small animal supplies • Bird food and feeders • Grooming

Plus, the GUARANTEED LOWEST PRICES on dog and cat food!

10 OFF

$

an in-store purchase of $50 or more Offer good October 26 - November 24, 2021

Use Code: SLPCOCT21 to buy online and pick up in store

3726

Limit 1 offer per customer, per visit. No photocopies or facsimiles will be accepted. Coupon must be presented at the time of purchase and must be surrendered upon redemption. Total purchase must reach $50 or more before state and local taxes. No adjustments to prior purchases. Returns will be credited as purchase price less the discount, and discount will be forfeited. Cannot be used in conjunction with Buy Get offer, or other coupons. Not redeemable on fuel, lottery tickets, tobacco, alcohol, gift cards, tickets, permits, registrations, licenses, warranties, Carhartt®, Striker®, YETI®, or Weber® items. Other exclusions may apply. See store for details.

Visit us at 1516 Geneva St., Delavan, WI

405598


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Pet Connection Fall 2021 by Southern Lakes Newspapers / Rock Valley Publishing - Issuu