“Until one has loved an animal, a part of one’s soul remains unawakened.” —Anatole France, French poet.
Astudy released in September found that 51% of Oregon pet owners say their dog will come when called. That means just about half, which includes my dogs, basically run the show. The percent drops to 13% for the category “listens to commands,” and falls to 6% for “can be trusted off leash” and 4% for “doesn’t bark excessively.” It seems most of us are at the mercy of those puppy-dog eyes. The numberone reason Oregonians say they chose their dog: personality. Well, enough said.
Beyond those fun facts, we at Central Oregon Pets know that not everyone is a dog lover. In this issue, you’ll meet the owner of fancy rats who will try to convince you she has the best pets. Plus, read about compassionate horse lovers saving vulnerable equines one at a time and a sanctuary for unwanted parrots. Also meet a cat with a hard-luck life who's finally found her furever home, and learn what it takes to be a good gecko parent. Enjoy this latest edition of Central Oregon Pets!
On the Cover:
Photo by Lindsay Baca
Oregon-based photographer Lindsay Baca has spent over 14 years capturing the spirit and personality of dogs through her lens. Her work celebrates each dog’s unique character, like Walli the pug, pictured here enjoying the fall leaves. See more at www.lindsaybaca.com or on Instagram @lindsaybaca
CO Pets Staff
EDITOR
Nic Moye
Rugby and Wollie's Mom
PAGE DESIGN
Jennifer Galler
Pugsly’s Mom
AD DESIGN
Adrian Galler
Huey’s Dad
REPORTER
Peter Madsen
Stella’s Dad
COPY EDITOR
Richard Sitts
Mack and Mo's Dad
CONTRIBUTORS
SALES DIRECTOR
Ashley Sarvis
Tucker and Mikko's Mom
ADVERTISING
Ban Tat
Gracie's Dad
ADVERTISING
Chad Barnes
Louis and Morty's Dad
PUBLISHER
Aaron Switzer
Poppy's Dad
CONTROLLER
Angela Switzer
Kashi's Mom
Sarah Isak-Goode, Ramona McCallister, Libby Findling
Powered by
Local equine rescues take in sick, abused, often unadoptable horses
By Nic Moye
Each week, 3 Sisters Equine Refuge receives five to six requests to surrender from horse owners around the state who can no longer care for their horses. According to Board President Amber Holm, they often have to turn them down. Volunteers are currently caring for 30 rescue horses, many of which are high needs. Some are in permanent sanctuary.
“Some of them are adoptable to the perfect home, but they have needs that maybe not every home can meet,” Holm explains. “Then some of them are ‘sanctuary,’ which means they can’t be adopted. They have needs that the rescue has to meet to know that they’re taken care of. And then there are adoptable horses.”
Cash is the refuge’s most adoptable horse. He came to them as a three-year-old, non-branded Bureau of Land Management mustang gelding from Paisley who’s had a lot of handling.
“He’s an orphan. Sometimes BLM calls us and they’re like, ‘We have this orphan.’ Now he’s four and well under saddle and doing lovely,” Holm says. “So he’s a great prospect of adoptability for the right rider, who probably needs to be an advanced rider for a young horse.”
Many of the horses at 3 Sisters can’t be ridden and are better suited as pasture pets. Most are wild, coming from BLM horse roundups, the Warm Springs Indian Reservation or removed from what Holm calls a “slaughter pipeline,” heading for Mexico or Canada. Horses are housed at foster ranches throughout Deschutes County. Volunteers work with each one for however long it takes.
“At 3 Sisters we really believe in a kindness-based method and not forceful training. So it can be one horse that could take a month, one could take a couple days, especially if they’ve had previous exposures along the way or they didn’t have a bad experience that tarnished their view of humans. Other horses…might be older or were wild longer.” Some horses take a year, she said.
The adoption process is stringent to ensure horses are placed in the right homes. The refuge requires updates
Amber Holm transformed her property to take in more rescue horses.
Photo by Nic Moye
annually to ensure horses continue being properly cared for over the course of their lifetimes.
Holm was a competitive dressage rider as a kid but didn’t get involved in horse rescue until someone took her to the annual Boots and Bourbon fundraiser a few years ago. “That was a really big eye-opening event where they played a video,” Holm says. “And I was like, I have to get involved. And then I got really involved.” Holms took in a couple of foster horses and did some social media at first, then ended up remodeling her barn and fields spread out over 52 acres to accommodate wild horses, training and hosting events.
Walking around the property, it’s clear the horses know and adore Holm, as each one walked over to nuzzle her.
Three Sisters Equine is 100% volunteer based. Holm says donations have been down, but their expenses haven’t, making the Boots and Bourbon dinner and auction fundraiser, held Oct. 18, more important this year.
More Central Oregon rescues
There are other horse rescue groups in Central Oregon, each one filling a niche. Equine Outreach takes in older horses, many of which are 20 years old. They may be abused, neglected or medically compromised. Most of the animals are sanctuary or hospice horses remaining in the nonprofit’s care. Others may be
“Our agency primarily focuses on the elderly horses, which are wonderful companion horses or family pets.”
adopted to the right home. Equine Outreach currently has 11 horses under its care. Most of the horses are either surrendered by owners who can no longer care for them, or they come from the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office, which seizes horses in cases of neglect or abuse. All of the horses at Equine Outreach are available for adoption, but none are rideable. Executive Director and Board President Kurtis Hooley says most stay with the rescue until the end of life.
“Our agency primarily focuses on the elderly horses, which are wonderful companion horses or family pets,” Hooley told the Source. “Just like any animal, the older they get, the more challenging it is to take care of them, including medical issues and changes in dietary requirements.”
Finding a home that can meet the needs of a rescue horse can be challenging. Many cannot be ridden. Hooley says a rescue horse can cost between $5,000 to $7,500 a year for grain, hay, farriers, veterinarian care, medications and other horse-related items. And that’s without major medical expenses.
The relationship between volunteers and rescue horses is personal.
“Those who volunteer with us truly love these animals with all their heart, and the horses do the same in return,” Hooley says. The harmony the rescue horses at Equine Outreach are now experiencing comes through in the photos. The horses really like to mug for the camera.
“Those who volunteer with us truly love these animals with all their heart, and the horses do the same in return.”
Just like 3 Sisters Equine Refuge, Equine Outreach couldn’t survive without volunteers and donations.
“The people brave every weather condition, 365 days a year, 24 hours a day,” Hooley says. “Also, we are 100% supported by donations. We do not have, at this time, any endowments or benefactors to support us.”
Each of the horse rescues in Central Oregon were founded as a result of a crisis. The Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office, which also rescues neglected horses, has a similar situation, though with DCSO, the crises sometimes result in criminal charges against the owner. In April of 2024, 15 horses were seized from a Bend ranch and taken to the Sheriff’s rescue ranch. In August, one of the horses, Easter, was adopted by Equine Outreach. Two other horses, including Molina, a 23-yearold Quarter horse mare, and Bub, a 14-year-old quarter horse gelding, are listed on the Sheriff’s site as available for adoption. The Sheriff’s office performs background checks, site inspections and spot checks to ensure horses are being properly cared for after being adopted. The Sheriff’s rescue ranch also has other animals from neglect cases available for adoption, including goats, chickens, roosters and ducks.
Back at 3 Sisters Equine Refuge, Holm and her volunteers are always on the move. She, like others involved in rescues, is on a mission to not only save horses, but grow public support, hosting educational events at her property. “[I want to] really get everybody involved in learning how to support horses in the best way possible for the horses.”
Chief
Mocha & Paige Blue Photos
Second Chance is a sanctuary for unwanted parrots
Story and photos by Richard Sitts
Donna Costley says that back when she decided to start a bird rescue operation in 2012, she didn’t even like birds. “I hated birds. My mom had parakeets,” Costley recalls. However, one of her sons, Jon, got into birds first and brought his mother along, under his wing, so to speak. And since then, Second Chance Bird Rescue has provided a “loving rescue and sanctuary for homeless, unwanted and special needs parrots,” according to its mission statement.
Costly started the rescue in the Sacramento area in 2010 and it officially became a nonprofit in 2012 before relocating to Tumalo in 2017. Costley says they moved with 69 birds, 32 chickens, five peacocks, one turkey and five dogs. “It was the move from hell,” she jokes.
The operation makes up a compound of six buildings sitting on 10 acres on Dayton Road, alongside Hwy. 20, a couple miles west of Tumalo. On a recent cool morning a visitor arrives to hear a cacophony of shrieks and screeches emanating from the main bird house. Everyone’s waiting for fresh water and their breakfast — a healthful diet of fresh fruits, vegetables, pellet and seed. From within their cages the birds, about 50 in all, are fully aware of someone new and they warily eye the inquisitive stranger.
Those who choose to adopt these birds had best be serious. They can live for 80-100 years. Costley says the oldest bird she’s had lived to 94.
Her advice for those thinking of adopting a bird or birds (some are bonded) is to spend some time with the birds first. “They need to get to know them.” And for those with little or no experience with birds, to come and volunteer at the Rescue. People need to know what they are in for. “They are messy, they tear things up. It’s like having a 2-year-old for the rest of your life,” Costley says, adding, “They are very smart.” Anyone who has spent any amount of time around these exotic birds knows they are smart. Deceptively smart. Admiringly smart. And beautiful — a rainbow of florescent, Day-Glo colors.
As she makes the morning rounds among the cages, Costley throws out interesting tidbits about the birds. When she screeches, “Musica,” a Moluccan Cockatoo, has a decibel level higher than a 737 jet, according to Costley. Meanwhile, “Chase,” a Hiason Macaw, has a beak pressure of 1,500 pounds. Some of the cages have windows that allow the birds access to a caged area outside. Most do not care for the cold but one bird will sit outside in the snow if you let it, Costley says.
The Rescue also boards pet birds for those who are going to be away. That’s how volunteer Deb Hughes discovered SCBR, where she has volunteered for the past year. “I just love interacting with them,” Hughes says. At home she and her husband have a 26-year-old parrot that
she’s had its whole life. If she could, she’d take home her favorite, “Buttons,” a Goffin Cockatoo with only one wing. They are best buds, but Hughes doesn’t think it would work with her longtime bird bud at home.
Go on the website, click on the “Sponsor A Bird” tab and there’s some 34 virtual adoptable birds from which to choose.
Anyone who has spent any amount of time around these exotic birds knows they are smart. Deceptively smart. Admiringly smart. And beautiful — a rainbow of florescent, Day-Glo colors.
Consider the story of “Sydney,” a white Unbrella Cockatoo: “Hi, I am Sydney. One day my mom never came home. I was brought to SCBR by my human sister who could not keep me after mom was killed by a drunk driver in 2021.”
Or “Porter,” a Green Wing Macaw: “I came from an abusive environment. I’m a permanent resident because I’m unadoptable. Just too many scars.”
There’s “Clyde,” a Yellow-Crowned Amazon: “Hello, my name is Clyde. Before my mom passed away, she asked for me to stay here. I’m an old fellow. Please consider sponsoring me.”
And then there’s “Hoagie,” born in 1969: “Hello, my name is Hoagie. I’m a permanent resident here. My dad passed away and I was very sad. Please consider sponsoring me.”
Costley tells of a time when the birds helped her get though a horrible family tragedy. She has five sons and a daughter, but lost one son, a daughter-in-law who was seven and one-half months pregnant, and two grandsons, in an auto accident back east in 2012. “I had to get up and feed them every day, they gave me purpose,” she says. “I don’t think I would’ve survived without them.”
SCBR currently has about 10 volunteers and a five-member board. Costley says it costs about $3,000 a month to run the Rescue. In today’s economy, she says donations have been harder to come by, and the Rescue is at its capacity. Donations and more volunteers are high on the SCBR wish list.
As more of the birds are served their breakfast, some vigorously bop their heads up and down. Costley says its their way to prompt her to turn on some music. They love music, she says, especially Christmas music. But in the meantime, classic oldies do the trick.
Some of the birds do talk, she adds. In her house she has six personal birds and one greets her “Good Morning” every morning and can carry on a conversation.
Second Chance Bird Rescue
19084 Dayton Rd., Bend, OR 97703 916-956-2153 | scbrwestcoastdiv.org
“Boo,” a Green Wing Macaw, moves in to get a closer look at a visitor to the Second Chance Bird Rescue.
From left, “Arri” and “Ripple,” Sulpher Crest Cockatoos, perk up to check out a visitor to the Bird Rescue. And those googly eyes are real!
Life With Fancy Rats
A local owner shows off her small pets with big personalities
Story by Nic Moye / Photos by Nic Moye & Shaena Ivey
When you walk into Shaena Ivey’s spotless home north of Bend, you see a giant bird cage against the wall. It’s the kind that might hold a cockatoo or parrot, but instead it holds three fancy rats who spend every waking minute racing from floor to floor, climbing up wire walls, zipping through plastic tunnels, burrowing under flannel blankets and peering out the front to see which humans are watching. And all of that is done within seconds.
Ivey decided to adopt her first pet rats a few years ago to help her child with anxiety. She currently has three rats, all rescues from Little Critter Crew in Eugene. Part of the reason they are good for anxiety, Ivey says, is because rats need a lot of attention. Domesticated rats are highly
intelligent and social. They need to be kept in pairs or groups to thrive.
“You have to handle them. You can’t just shove them in there and just look at them,” Ivey says. “You have to hold them every single day.”
Her trio of rats are named Sake, Mocha and Freyja. She adopted them in May when they were about eight weeks old. Pet rats generally live about two years, making them an intense emotional investment. This group is Ivey’s second set. She pulled up photos on her cell phone of her last two, Nim and Ruby. “We raised them from six and eight weeks old. They could spin and dance,” she fondly recalls.
While Sake, Mocha and Freyja don’t dance, they are highly entertaining and sweet-natured. Rats are nocturnal, but with a guest in the house they seemed delighted to show off in the middle of the day. To keep them stimulated, Ivey puts their food in balls and gadgets that require work to get it out. She feeds them rat food, baby food, fruits and vegetables.
Source: The Spruce
Rat Facts :
• Fancy rats are domesticated brown rats that are kept as pets.
• Male rats are called bucks; females are does and babies are pups.
• Rats come in different breeds including standard/smooth, rex, hairless and tailless.
• Rats are most active at night.
• Rats are very social creatures and should never be kept alone.
• A rat’s average lifespan is 18-36 months.
• Rats need spacious cages, ideally multi-level, with a minimum of 2’x2’x2’.
Their elaborate two-story cage is filled with tunnels, hammocks and cardboard boxes for them to explore with an abundance of energy. Rats need to have cages cleaned, at a minimum, weekly, Ivey says, “because they can get respiratory diseases.” She also says owners should either have rats that are all the same sex or get them spayed or neutered in order to avoid them rapidly multiplying. A female rat can have up to seven litters a year with an average of seven babies per cycle. Spaying also helps alleviate health issues. “The reason you fix them is because females are very prone to tumors,” Ivey explains. Female rats are susceptible to ovarian, uterine or mammary cancer. Ivey takes her rats to Tumalo Animal Hospital.
Freyja is a Double Rex, meaning she will shed all of her fur, becoming hairless. “So she’s bald, then hair and then bald, then hair. And she may go all the way bald. Not everybody likes bald rats, but we love them,” Ivey says as she holds Freyja.
“Freyja is super sweet and gentle and curious about everything and will snuggle the most. She’s the best snuggler,” Ivey says. “Mocha is a little more shy but she wants to climb out of the cage. She’s very curious about the outside and she likes to snuggle, too. Sake is adorable. She will come to me more than anybody but she’s a little skittish and likes to hide.”
These fancy rats get time out of the cage as well, usually in the bathroom where they can be contained. These three are litter box trained. Ivey even travels with them.
“Once you get started, you get really attached,” she says with a smile while fixing a tunnel in the cage that Mocha knocked off a ledge. “Did you knock that over?” she murmurs to the fancy rat. “I’ll help you. You silly.”
When you register, simply email us a photo of your pet, and we’ll have your canvas pre-sketched and ready to go. With step-by-step guidance, you’ll bring your furry (or feathered!) friend to life in vibrant colors. No experience needed—all levels welcome!
Spots fill quickly, so grab yours today and create a keepsake you’ll cherish forever.
Building Community
One Gecko at a Time
High Desert Geckos Exotic Pets & Supplies
905 SW Rimrock Way Suite 101, Redmond, OR 97756 541-527-5082 | highdesertgeckos.com
Meet the Redmond shop owner transforming fear into fascination
By Sarah Isak-Goode
After more than a decade of hands-on reptile breeding and care, owner of High Desert Geckos, Samantha Weist, has turned a childhood passion into a thriving small business. What began as a hobby breeding crested geckos has evolved into a downtown Redmond storefront teeming with snakes, arachnids, lizards and more. In a field largely dominated by men, West is carving her own path — and helping others, especially kids, build comfort and curiosity around reptiles.
Now, she’s preparing to expand into a larger location that will offer after-hours, hands-on animal education. The grand opening is scheduled for Oct. 31 at 905 S.W. Rimrock Way, Suite 101.
In this conversation with the Source, Weist shares how she got started, her favorite animals, and why she believes changing hearts and minds starts with showing people
that snakes and spiders aren’t so scary after all.
the Source: How long have you been doing this?
Samantha Weist: Technically, I’ve been actively breeding reptiles for over 10 years, but about four years ago I opened up my storefront—originally on my property before moving it to the downtown location.
tS: What first got you into reptiles?
SW: When I was nine, I had my first reptile, a corn snake. I went several years without any after that, but about 10 years ago, my ex randomly said, “Let’s breed reptiles.” It was such a strange idea at first, but we started doing research, and that’s when I began breeding crested geckos as a hobby.
tS: That’s such a unique starting point!
SW: Yeah, it’s quirky, but what really hooked me was learning about genetics and seeing the babies hatch. That moment of realizing you created something — it just stuck with me.
tS: When did it go from hobby to business?
SW: After a while, I told my friends I wanted to open a reptile store. At first, it was just going to be geckos, but you can’t really run a whole storefront off geckos alone. I wanted to show people snakes, arachnids, all of it — and teach them that these animals aren’t scary. That’s really my biggest mission.
tS: That seems like such an interesting challenge — helping people unlearn their fear of these animals.
SW: Definitely. Just the other day, a little girl came in, probably 7 or 8 years old, and she started crying. At first I panicked, but her dad explained she has really high anxiety
Terrarium photo by Sarah Isak-Goode / Animal photos courtesy High Desert Geckos
and was just overwhelmed — in a good way. She ended up loving the animals. It was emotional, but in the end, I knew I was doing the right thing by sharing my passion.
tS: Do you have any educational programs to help with that kind of outreach?
SW: Not at the current shop — it’s too small. I tried it once with a group of 5- and 6-year-olds, and with about 12 kids in such a tiny space, it was a lot. But at the new location, we’re going to have after-hours programs, interactive education and even sessions on building bioactive enclosures. It’s all about making the experience more immersive and family-friendly.
tS: That’s amazing. So what are your favorite reptiles now? Do you still have a soft spot for crested geckos?
SW: Crested geckos and corn snakes will always be my favorites since they got me into all this. But recently I got my dream animal — a Mali uromastyx. They’re herbivores with spiky tails and adorable little squishy faces. They’re really rare to find, so being able to add one to my collection has been incredible.
tS: That sounds like something kids would absolutely love.
SW: Totally! There’s definitely a connection for kids — they can really spark the imagination.
tS: How many people work in your shop?
SW: Right now, it’s just three of us, including me. But the new shop is going from 400 square feet to over 1,300, so we’ll definitely be hiring more as things get busier.
tS: Do you travel a lot for expos, too?
SW: I do! I hit expos at least once a month — Colorado, Washington, all over the West Coast. It’s still a very maledominated space. A lot of people do it as a hobby, but for those of us building careers, it’s still rare to see women in the field. So I really appreciate when people notice that. Representation does matter.
tS: It really does. And your story about the little girl in the shop — that’s the kind of impact that can last a lifetime.
SW: I hope so. That’s why I do what I do.
High Desert Geckos offers a comprehensive range of reptiles, arachnid and amphibian supplies.
The story of Ponderosa Paws
Interview by Sarah Isak-Goode
Photos by Travis Fuller
Travis Fuller didn’t set out to build a booming dogwalking business in Bend. But thanks to a stoic old sled dog named Mutt — and a little trial and error — he ended up creating something special. Since 2016, Ponderosa Paws has grown into a go-to for off-leash dog hikes, thanks to Fuller’s deep connection with animals and a philosophy rooted in trust, patience and personal connection.
The Source sat down with Fuller to talk about his journey, the dog who started it all, and what it takes to lead a pack in one of the most dog-friendly towns in the country.
the Source: Why did you start Ponderosa Paws?
Travis Fuller: I had a friend in Seattle with a dogwalking business that was doing really well. We used to work together doing dog sled tours in Alaska. He kind of mentored me through the process — everything from state licensing to insurance to building a client base.
tS: Did you jump in full-time right away?
TF: No, I definitely eased into it. At first, I only had a couple of clients — maybe two to five. I spent a lot of time handing out business cards, networking with other pet professionals and just trying to build trust and visibility. I worked part-time for my dad and also at a sushi bar at night while walking dogs during the day.
tS: Was there a turning point when you felt like it was working?
TF: Yeah. About six months in, I actually considered leaving Bend to go work for my friend in Seattle. But I got stuck in traffic during the interview and thought, “I don’t know if I can do this.” When I came back, the business suddenly picked up. That summer I landed four new clients, and by the second year, I felt confident it could be a full-time thing.
Dogpac
Good Dog!, Phil’s Trailhead
Sno-Park
tS: Do you have any dogs of your own?
TF: Yes, Timber, a shepherd-husky mix. Technically he’s my husband’s dog, but he joins us on hikes when there’s room. But the dog who really inspired this business was Mutt, a retired sled dog I adopted. He was 11 or 12 when I brought him home. I used to work for a dog sledding company at Mt. Bachelor, and I just fell in love with him. He was stoic and chill, a totally different energy from the other dogs. When I left him alone, he’d howl nonstop. I knew I needed a job that allowed him to come along. So really, Ponderosa Paws started because of Mutt.
tS: What role did Mutt play in those early years?
TF: He came with me on nearly every walk for the first three years. He helped teach the other dogs how to behave, sort of like a wise old guide. He set the tone and the pack dynamic. I like to say he was the sourdough starter for the whole thing — he really helped shape what this business is today.
tS: You worked with sled dogs right out of high school. How did that happen?
TF: I moved to Skagway, Alaska, just days after graduation. A family friend connected me to a musher who needed help. I ended up living on a glacier with 300 sled dogs and 30 people, taking tourists out on sled rides. That experience put the idea in my head that I wanted to work with dogs long-term.
says he
on trust and relationship building to keep the dogs with him.
tS: What made you choose off-leash hiking over traditional dog walking?
TF: After working with sled dogs — who are almost always tethered — I wanted to give dogs more freedom. Off-leash hikes let them explore, run, and just be dogs. My goal is to give them the best life possible, especially when their humans are busy at work.
tS: What’s the biggest challenge of managing off-leash hikes?
TF: It comes down to knowing the dogs. I get to know each one individually — what triggers them, what they’re comfortable with, how they socialize. I start all new dogs on a 30-foot long line to test recall and pack fit. It’s a gradual process; they earn their off-leash freedom.
Fuller
relies
Dr. Stephanie Kadasi
How a local cat named Sushi found her way from struggle to snuggle
Story by Libby Findling / Photos by Russel Droll
It was a sunny day in June 2023 when Sushi, an eight-year old-smoky calico, was brought into Feline Fine Cat Clinic in south Bend. Sushi had been aggressively biting her own tail, which veterinarians recognized as a sign of dental disease. After several appointments with the clinic, Sushi’s owners decided they preferred euthanization as they could no longer continue with her recommended medical plan.
However, the team at Feline Fine, saw Sushi’s bright personality and potential and were confident a surgery would cure Sushi’s dental disease. The team encouraged the owners to relinquish the cat instead of ending her life.
Sushi’s owners agreed and for weeks, she lived at the clinic, in the care of vets who were actively seeking out options for a new home. A close friend to the clinic heard about Sushi’s situation and volunteered to foster her, in hope that Sushi would befriend her other kitty and could have a place to call home.
During this time, Sushi’s dental disease was relieved with a surgery made possible by both the foster owner and Feline Fine’s “Angel Fund,” a donation-based system that provides financial support to cats in need of medical attention.
While Sushi was on the road to recovery, it became clear she was best suited for a life without the company of other cats, so she landed back in the welcoming arms of the clinic. David Cheney, Business Director and Co-Owner of Feline Fine, and his team knew this cat was worthy of a special home.
That December, the clinic’s staff called up Russell Droll, a client whose beloved 20 year-old cat had recently been put down at the clinic. Hesitant to adopt another cat immediately, Russell decided to come in to meet Sushi. Not too surprisingly, Sushi wooed Russell with her calico charm, tugging at his heartstrings and winning him over with her mesmerizing purr.
Droll took Sushi home around the holidays. Unexpectedly, she came down with an illness that brought her back to the clinic. Russell told the Source that Feline Fine was nothing but supportive and helpful in the process of nursing Sushi
back to recovery. “I am so appreciative of everything the clinic did,” Russell reported, “They care deeply about the cats that they treat. They are good, genuine people.”
Today, Russell lives an outdoor lifestyle — camping, backpacking and traveling when he can — while Sushi enjoys an indoor lifestyle — napping, stretching, all the important feline things. While Russell is traveling, Sushi is cared for by close friends who call her “Sushi Roll” for her characteristic rolls on the carpet. Russell describes Sushi as “the most adorable cat” and a “big licker.” He goes on to say, “She has never bit or scratched me. She’s just a special cat,” Russell beamed. Sushi has fully recovered from her medical challenges and proven herself to be a snuggly, sweet and playful kitty, living a cozy, happy life at her new forever home.
Russell Droll says Sushi loves to snuggle.
A Program Keeping Pets with Low-Income Owners Expands
Pet Pals
serves most of Central Oregon with the help of donations and volunteers
By Nic Moye
Anew partnership between the Council on Aging and the Humane Society of Central Oregon is helping to expand a program that supports low-income adults and their pets. Pet Pals began when the Council on Aging saw Meals on Wheels clients struggling to afford pet food and vet care. It launched in 2021 with 30 clients.
The program provides in-home veterinary care in Madras and Prineville for people enrolled in the Meals on Wheels program. Since spring, 15 inhome visits have been completed on 21 animals. Pets have received exams, vaccinations and preventative care. Pet Pals serves older adults in Bend, La Pine, Sisters, Madras and Prineville. The Redmond Senior Center has its own program for Meals on Wheels clients.
“My pets keep me going... There were many difficult days in cancer treatment — just knowing I had their unconditional love and they needed me kept me going. I have to get up every day to keep them going. My cats have saved me.”
According to the Council on Aging, demand for Pet Pals is rising. Over the past year, the program has seen a 40% increase in clients, now supporting 163 clients and 242 pets. At the same time, funding has dropped 32%, with veterinary services hit hardest by these cuts.
“For people who are homebound, getting a pet to the vet can be especially hard and often expensive if in-home visits are needed,” Director of Communications and Programs Emma Fried-Cassorla told the Source. “We also know, both from our own experience and research from Meals on Wheels America, that many older adults will put their pets’ needs ahead of their own, and we didn’t want them to have to make that choice. We also consider Pet Pals to be one of our programs which addresses loneliness and isolation in older adults.”
Above photos by Corrina Ryan Photography
Photo
100% of Meals on Wheels clients believe their pet brings happiness to their life.
Clients with pets reported higher social engagement with family and friends than clients without pets.
One in two Meals on Wheels clients reported being unable to access either preventative or sick/ emergency veterinary care.
More than one in five report going without food themselves to feed their pets.
“My pets keep me going,” reported one client, who was undergoing cancer treatment. “There were many difficult days in cancer treatment — just knowing I had their unconditional love and they needed me kept me going. I have to get up every day to keep them going. My cats have saved me.”
Another client told the Council on Aging, “Without it, we couldn’t keep our pets.”
A similar sentiment is shared over and over. “They are just wonderful. I just can’t say enough. I’ve never had someone come to my rescue. I’d have a real hard time on my income keeping these dogs.”
To qualify for the program, clients have to be 60+ years of age and homebound due to injury, illness or disability, with a lack of family or other support to access meals.
Each month, Pet Pals provides supplemental dog and cat food along with toys, leashes and bedding. Volunteers deliver supplies in Bend, Sisters and La Pine. It’s shipped to clients in Madras and Prineville. Basic veterinary care is provided such as wellness exams, vaccines, microchips, spay/neuter surgeries. Volunteers also transport Meals on Wheels clients and their pets when needed.
“They are just wonderful. I just can’t say enough. I’ve never had someone come to my rescue. I’d have a real hard time on my income keeping these dogs.”
In addition to its new partnership with HSCO, the program partners with FIXbend, Wickiup Animal Hospital, Furry Friends Foundation and Heartwarmers. It also relies on community donations. Each partner plays a vital role in reaching clients throughout Central Oregon. FIXBend has been the longest Pet Pals partner, hosting a quarterly after-hours clinic for Meals on Wheels clients. Wickiup Animal Clinic works with pet owners in the La Pine area. Mini Pet Mart offers the program wholesale pricing and donations of returned or expired products valued around $2,500 a month. HCSO provides inhome veterinary care for clients in Madras and Prineville and donates excess pet food and supplies when available.
“This new partnership [with HCSO] is truly a game changer,” Fried-Cassorla says. “Bringing veterinary care directly into the homes of our homebound clients makes our efforts far more impactful. While we’re grateful to have dedicated volunteers who can transport clients to FIXbend clinics, there’s something especially powerful about being able to provide care right where a client lives, offering access they might not otherwise have.”
In the past year, Pet Pals has distributed 10,723 pounds of dog and cat food and $50,392 worth of food and supplies to people in need. The Council on Aging has launched a Food Fur All donation drive to help fill the gap in funding and supplies. More information can be found at councilonaging.org.
Photos
Mark Schuette makes dog-powered scooters that put the woof in vroom
Story and photo by Peter Madsen
Mark Schuette spent a recent Sunday morning rolling through Drake Park. A roving landmark in Bend, Schuette delights passersby with his novel mode of transportation — a dog-powered scooter.
“When I roll past people, I get lots of ‘Look at that!’” Schuette said. “I like passing by the crowds at the Hayden Homes Amphitheater. People always want to chat. They’ll ask for a test ride. It’s so safe and easy. My dogs always slow down when they get too far away from me.”
On this morning, Schuette was aided by his two pups,
Bolt, a 2-year-old black Pointer Pit — “He’s the puller” — and Copper, a 3-year-old German Pointer with a rare brindle coat. “He’s the thinker.”
A 30-minute outing, which can cover 2 or 3 miles, depending on terrain and bike path traffic, is plenty satisfying for the pups. When the going gets slow, Schuette can dab a foot on the pavement or begin walking the scooter without any disruption to the dogs’ flow.
“These scooters are made for high-energy dogs who really love to pull,” Schuette said.
On this morning, the doggos, secured in harnesses attached to outrigger arms, whined with anticipation. Attempting a test ride, this reporter took the handlebars and, balancing on the scooter platform, released the brakes. The dogs pawed at the pavement — off we went.
Cruising at even 5 MPH, the scooter is remarkably stable. When I came to a stop, the scooter, supported by the dogs, practically stands on its own. As Schuette later showed me, the dogs can sit and even lie down without discomfort. Recently, Schuette updated the outrigger bar design, which allows the carabiners to swing with several inches of play. That lets the dogs pull smoothly. Unlike conventional joring setups where dogs might pull, say, a mountain biker from an anterior line, the dog scooter design allows the rider to be in front. Schuette can check on his dogs’ condition by glancing over his shoulder or by spying on them through a rearview mirror attached to his handlebar end.
RESCUE
Happy Trails Horse Rescue, located in Tumalo is dedicated to the protection of horses and their quality of life.
“When I roll past people, I get lots of ‘Look at that! I like passing by the crowds at the Hayden Homes Amphitheater. People always want to chat. They’ll ask for a test ride.”
We rescue horses in need and we also provide community outreach and educational resources such as our SURRENDER PREVENTION PROGRAM
medical/farrier or temporary shelter) in an effort to alleviate an owner’s difficult choices of relinquishment or euthanasia. We believe that every equine deserves respect, love, compassion and dignity, regardless of age, health, or behavior.
“This way you can see the dogs faces and not their butts,” he said.
Happy Trails Horse Rescue, located in Tumalo is dedicated to the protection of horses and their quality of life.
DONATE OR VOLUNTEER TODAY!
Schuette, 74, and a retired architect who specialized in eco and solar constructions, began selling these twowheeled rigs from his website, dogpowerscooter.com, in 2006. He currently has two models in stock. The latest design is a fat bike scooter that rolls smoothly on gravel, single track and even a light dusting of snow. A longer wheelbase, wider footplate and higher ground clearance than his previous models ramp up the stability and comfort.
Schuette contracts with a Willamette Valley fabricator who makes the scooter frames. A welder in Bend provides the outrigger arms. Wheels and components are sourced from China, which keeps prices down. Scooters range in price from about $400 (not including the outrigger arm) to $850. The outrigger arms are customizable in size via quickrelease levers and can be configured to either side of the scooter.
Schuette’s customers overwhelmingly live in the cooler regions of California or in upstate New York. Surprisingly, in nearly two decades, Schuette has only sold three scooters in Bend. Australia is a frequent international destination for his dog rigs. Europe, too. He’d love to partner with an investor.
Yet not everyone Schuette encounters on the bike path is thrilled by the sight of them. He hears “You’re lazy!” or condemnations of his alleged disregard for the canines’ well-being. But Schuette doesn’t sweat it; he knows that, despite himself weighing 160 pounds, the dogs are only pulling the equivalent of six or seven pounds.
“That’s because you’re on wheels,” Schuette said with a grin.
RESCUE
provide community outreach and educational resources such as our medical/farrier or temporary shelter) in an effort to alleviate an owner’s difficult choices of relinquishment or euthanasia. We believe that every equine deserves respect, love, compassion and dignity, regardless of age,
Happy Trails Horse Rescue, located in Tumalo is dedicated to provide community outreach and educational resources
Happy Trails Horse Rescue, located in Tumalo is dedicated the protection of horses and their quality of life.
provide community outreach and educational resources
medical/farrier or temporary shelter) in an effort alleviate an owner’s difficult choices of relinquishment or euthanasia. We believe that every equine deserves respect, love, compassion and dignity, regardless of
alleviate an owner’s difficult choices of relinquishment respect, love, compassion and dignity, regardless of age,
DONATE OR VOLUNTEER TODAY!
DONATE OR VOLUNTEER TODAY!
541-241-0783 www.happytrailshr.org
Taking Dog Training
to the Next Level
A young dog trainer from Prineville earned a prestigious award at the Oregon State Fair for dog training and getting her dog certified as a therapy dog
Story by Ramona McCallister / Photos by Merilee Glass
It is often said that the bond between a human and dog is unlike any other.
Khasidy Lefthand, or Khas, as she prefers, is a freshman at Crook County High School. She has experienced this bond firsthand and has taken it to the next level with her canine friends.
Lefthand has been in 4-H for approximately five years. This summer, she took first place at the Crook County Fair, came away with the Highest Trained Dog at the Oregon State Fair, and began training her labradoodle, LuLu, to be a therapy dog. She accomplished all of this in the last three months, but she will tell you that it started with her trainers five years ago and with the support of her family.
“I have always been involved with dogs,” says Lefthand about her love for animals.
She tried other things in her 4-H club in Prineville, but she always came back to working with canines. Initially, her inspiration came from her brother Justin’s bond with his dog, Cruiser.
“When he had his dog, Cruiser, he had a really good bond with his dog — and I wanted a bond with a dog,” added Khas. “I tried to find something that was my passion,” she added, since she had access to dog 4-H.
One year ago, her family’s Chocolate Lab had a litter of puppies and they kept one, whom they named Ruby. She showed a propensity for dog showmanship and bonded well with Lefthand. LuLu is the family’s nine-year-old golden doodle (Golden Retriever and Poodle). LuLu became the star during training. Ruby was still young while LuLu is calm around people.
“This year, I tried something new when we got Ruby. At first, I think it was just bringing Ruby to practice and
trying to get her used to being out. Then it was taking her to trainings and bringing both LuLu and Ruby,” she said of introducing her dogs to the world of showmanship.
Lefthand and her three dog trainers, Janelle Geddes, Becky Kreachbaum, and Gail Schmutz, worked with Ruby and LuLu in 4-H. As the fair got closer, she worked mostly with LuLu. They helped her with basic commands, showmanship and obedience. In obedience, there are several levels of difficulty.
She and LuLu achieved the level of Grad Novice, which earned her a place at the Crook County Fair to compete at State Fair. She and LuLu scored the highest points and won grand champion in Grad Novice. She also achieved the Highest Trained Dog award at the Oregon State Fair.
“I got a really big ribbon,” Lefthand said proudly.
Soon after State Fair, she decided to switch gears and train Ruby and LuLu as therapy dogs. She soon realized Ruby was still a bit young for the task and continued with LuLu. There are three observations in order to qualify as a therapy dog: an initial observation to judge overall training, reaction to other dogs and temperament, and two observations at medical facilities, interacting with staff and patients.
The dog and handler must make three visits to a facility like a nursing home, hospital, library or school every three months to keep certifications current. Lefthand wants to keep her visits local until she is older and able to drive. She added that if an event in Central Oregon warranted a therapy dog, she would certainly help with LuLu. Ruby will need to gain some maturity, but Lefthand believes she will make a good therapy dog, eventually.
“She can also go to crisis things — if there was a crisis somewhere, she could go to help out people, who need
therapy calming, she could go anywhere where someone was in need,” explained Lefthand’s mother, Merilee Glass.
Lefthand met her therapy dog handler, Sue Dolezal, from Bend, two years ago. Dolezal works for Alliance of Therapy Dogs. According to their official website, “Our teams provide therapy in many settings, including but not limited to airports, nursing homes, assisted living facilities, rehab facilities, mental health institutions, schools, hospitals, cancer centers, hospice facilities, college campuses and can also provide therapy in patients’ homes.”
Lefthand completed her second evaluation on Sept. 20 and her last one Sept. 27.
During the training, the dogs must become familiar with environments, obedience and objects such as canes, wheelchairs and walkers. During the second training session, Lefthand took LuLu to a nursing home.
“Saturday, (Sept. 20), she rocked yesterday and made everyone smile including her evaluator,” remarked Glass of the second evaluation. She has been instrumental in supporting her daughter throughout her 4-H career and is very proud of her accomplishments.
Lefthand reflected on her five years with 4-H, and her therapy dog training. “It has helped me become a better person,” she concluded. She added that it helped her to have patience with herself and her dog.
“Throughout training and throughout the five years (in 4-H), I think I realized it’s going to take a couple of tries to get it but learned patience. I think through that, it has kind of made me care about LuLu more.”
JOIN THE HAPPY CAMP
From daystays to overnight lodging, your dog will be treated with exceptional love and care in an environment designed especially for his/her happiness!
Extra Adventures, nature walks, field runs, private play, bathing.
