pet connection MAGAZINE MAR/APR 2020 The FREE! Superhero Take One! Issue! the rogue detection teams!

PAWS Wild Night April 18 College Dogs Canopy Cat Rescue Avalanche Rescue Dogs

& LOTS MORE! Photo by Holly Cook Photography Serving King and Snohomish North Sound People, Pets, & Community! Counties the world’s most endangered species. TM Before creating Rogues, Heath Smith, Inside this issue: Lead Instructor helped to deploy a pet connection total of 251 teams on 152 projects, Mar/Apr MAGAZINE with 40 dogs recruited and 44 han- From the dlers mentored. And their innovative Publisher PO Box 845 methods have been overwhelmingly 2020 East Olympia, WA 98540 successful. The reason behind that? It’s e’ve all had a North (425)985-2872 all in their method. hero at some point during South (360)507-4251 “Part of the passion is the detection our lives. www.petconnectionmagazine.com dog method,” explained Bounder Jen- WSomeone who went above nifer Hartman. “There’s still a lot of and beyond. Someone hesitation from researchers. It still who saw us. Someone who seems like the outlying method. behavior, but they’re also dogs that don’t look “The Humboldt marten is a really rare animal Sarah Bous-Leslie We’re asked: Why don’t we just use ‘traditional’ like they’d be working dogs.” Take Beckett, for that needs to be conserved,” Jennifer explained. saw a problem. Someone Photography Cook Holly Photos by who envisioned a solution. Designer/Publisher South Sound methods?” The answer: because detection dog example: he’s a small, black, fluffy dog, who “Other methods have had some success, but Someone who reached method works. looks like he’s equal parts Ewok, Teddy Bear, and in terms of collecting genetic material specifi-

out. Someone who [email protected] ROGUE Papillon. The Rogue Teams also tend to end up cally, detection dogs are more successful. We believed in us. Someone The Pet Connection team had the opportunity to with a lot of traditional working dog breeds like discovered that the martens live in both old

who helped us believe in Tracy Campion see just how well detection dogs worked when black Labs and blue heelers, but many breeds growth forests and sand dunes, which we hadn’t something greater than ourselves. Chimpanzee5 Sanctuary Northwest Heroes8 in the Treetops Writer/Publisher North Sound several of the teams showed us how quickly can be detection dogs. anticipated.” [email protected] their dogs could find some scat that had been As the co-publisher of Pet Connection Magazine, I’ve hidden off-trail. Dog after dog bounded over the “We’re looking at personality traits. Our selec- Other recent projects have included detecting had the great honor of meeting many heroes over Melissa L. Cole hillside, their noses searching eagerly, until they tion process isn’t breed-based,” Jennifer said. “We cougar, bats, tigers, Taylor’s Checkerspot and Sil- the past several years, including leaders whose found where the scat had been hidden. Each know that these dogs work; they wouldn’t be as verspot caterpillar frass (they are an endangered vision for a better world inspired paradigm shifts, Editor time, it was within one or two minutes., Impres- happy in a home. We adopt the misfits. These are butterfly of the PNW), Sierra Nevada red fox in working and therapy dogs of every description, sive, considering this was scat that the dogs had ‘bad’ dogs for a good cause. ‘Bad’ because they Yosemite National Park, storm petrels in British each doing their part for people and the planet, my 22 Holly Cook been trained on more than a year earlier, but didn’t thrive in a home environment, but they Columbia, grasshoppers in France, and fishers partners in the Limelight Pet Project, and a horse Susan Wyatt hadn’t smelled again since. Each time the dogs do thrive in the great outdoors, doing what they and marten in Michigan. trainer who saw me, believed in me, and helped me Douglas Scott found scat, they leapt with joy, and then were love with their people.” and my horse overcome so much. rewarded with a ball. They raced around the The Rogues don’t fit within a certain framework Sassafras Lowrey hillside, snow spraying up from beneath their While many of the bounders work primarily with because they’re using a live animal to find other I eagerly anticipate our annual “heroes” issues, Staff Writers paws as we all laughed. Even working dogs get certain dogs, the teams are trained to be inter- animals. where we can thank those who are making a the zoomies. changeable. difference and bring attention to their work. This Holly Cook Photography “They aren’t a machine; we’re constantly learn- includes celebrating our local unsung heroes, and 26 GOING While the faces behind the Rogue Detection “Even amongst all of these dogs with high prey ing,” Jennifer said. “How do we get them to go to we’re thankful to have the opportunity to shine a Seattle Dogs Wild Love Preserve Marika Moffitt / Dirtie Dog Photography by Tracy Campion Teams have been in the field for years, their drive, they still have differences in their com- the right spot where a bat has landed? We can’t light on those who are making an impact on our Homeless Program Sarah Bous-Leslie name is new. The Rogues were officially founded munication,” explained Bounder Suzie Marlow. do your nice, neat, statistical analysis.” community. We think these stories will resonate with he snow crunched beneath our boots as in 2019. “Being able to work with 15 different dogs, it’s you, too. Photographers we ascended the winding trail, flanked almost like learning different dialects. You see Many of the team members have been in the 3  Rogue Detection Teams 21 Seattle Police K9 Team by Douglas Fir and lodgepole pine. Stephanie Cahill “We decided to break out on our own because how you communicate with one dog versus how field for years. Suzie Marlow and her dog, Skye, In these pages you’ll learn about the superpowers Competes On A&E’s New The air was sharp, but the sun glinted we were going to lose the soul that made us you communicate with another.” have traveled as far as Nepal and Vietnam, Jaimee Greenawalt Tthrough the trees, warming our faces. Holly Cook, of the Rogue detection teams, who travel the world 6 Connections: WDFW Officer Series, America’s Top Dog who we were,” Jennifer explained. “We have 25 where they located pangolins. Justin Broderick, helping endangered species, one sniff at a time, Designers her husband, Tony, and I hiked up the mountain- years of making mistakes, and we know what While the dogs might differ in their communica- who works with Winnie, has been detecting en- the work of Andrea Maki, the founder of the Wild Dustin Prater and K9 Officer side sandwiched between several of the Rogue works and what doesn’t. We decided to name tion, bounders and canines alike have a shared dangered species for 8 or 9 years. Love Preserve sanctuary, Seattle PD Officer TJ San Spencer 22 Sandy Paws: Four Dog- Annette Lanker Detection Teams, including Justin Broderick with ourselves the Rogue Detection Teams because reputation as misfits. They truly are rogues. Miguel and her K9 partner, Pele, who starred in Winnie, Jennifer Hartman with Scooby, Suzie we’re the misfits of the biology world,” Jennifer “We’re looking to grow in 2020,” Jennifer said. Friendly Beach Hikes Around Publicity and Event Team Leader Marlow with Skye and Zilly, Heath Smith with A&E’s America’s Top Dog, the courageous Avalanche 9  Ask an Animal Lawyer Western Washington explained. The Rogue dogs were all rescued “We’re always outsiders, even within the biology Part of that growth includes increased educa- Rescue Dogs of Stevens Pass, Denise Bash, the Subscriptions Chester and Duke, and Collette Yee with Jack from shelters; some of these dogs, like Pip, had world,” said Jennifer. “The traditional method for tional outreach. director of GreaterGood.org’s Disaster Relief efforts, and Dio. As we walked, each dog checked in been returned to the shelter up to six times tracking animals is using a radio collar or trap, the adventures of Washington Department of Fish 22 Hometown Heroes: www.PetConnectionMagazine.com with their human partner, or “bounder,” pausing, before their particular set of skills made them but we use scent detection work to find them.” “We’re going to be hosting two classes where 10 Events or making eye contact, or putting their nose to and Wildlife Officer Dustin Prater and his Karelian Washington State Animal the perfect partners for the human rogues. people can learn more about behavior work and Bear Dog, Spencer, the life-changing College Dogs Advertising their human partner’s leg. The nontraditional approach has yielded ex- how to specialize in detection,” explained Suzie. teams, the sky-high heroes of Canopy Cat Rescue, 12 Avalanche Dogs Response Team [email protected] “The Rogue dogs tend to be a lot of the working traordinary results; the dogs can detect more “It’s a dynamic environment, and we’re going to the primates of Chimpanzee Sanctuary Northwest, As we rounded a turn, we came to an opening breeds, because of their obsessive, high-energy than 40 species and counting. teach them how to deal with that. This is citizen in the trees. From here, we could see everything: scientist work. Science isn’t just a lab coat; it can the Seattle Dogs Homeless Program, Seattle’s first 23  Wolf Haven’s Heroes © 2020 All Rights Reserved. 13 Retirement and Volunteerism sky, trees, vast alluvial plain, and the mighty “We’re all family,” Jennifer said. be more physical and more engaging. From a organization to provide support for homeless people Pet Connection Magazine does not discriminate against and their pets, this season’s must-attend events, Columbia River stretched out below us, with the THE DOGS OF THE ROGUE DETECTION TEAMS “Part of what makes our method feminist point of view, it’s an opportunity to see advertisers or submissions on the basis of religion, race, including PAWS Wild Night, and so much more! 14 Be Your Dog’s Super Hero! 24 King County Sheriff’s Office Kettle Mountains fanning out far in the distance. Dog Breed Age Weight work is our connection with how women can have diverse roles in science.” creed, or political affiliation. We cannot be held liable for or We all paused to take in the sight. each other. We’re always working guarantee the claims of advertisers. All material is property of Alli Australian Cattle Dog/Mix 15 32lb In this issue, we also recognize the 50th anniversary overtime, all over the place. We The two-week classes will be held at the of Earth Day, which is currently observed by 192 15 Feral Cat Spay/Neuter 25 Unsung Heroes: Pet Connection Magazine and may NOT be reprinted or used The pups and people of the Rogue Detection Athena Cattle Dog/Mix 5 40lb instruct each other; it’s a loop, it’s Rogue’s home base in Rice, Washington, and countries worldwide to demonstrate awareness of in whole or in part without written permission from PCM. Teams have circumnavigated the globe, ascend- Beckett Ewok/No Idea 6 20lb a feedback.” will include basic theory and an apprenticeship Project: Dear Tabby Nominations From The ing countless hillsides and mountains, most of and support for environmental protection. There’s Chester Golden Retriever/Lab Mix 16 60lb program. never been a more important time to focus on these Community them far steeper than this one. From Southern The Rogues branched out be- Dio Australian Cattle Dog/ 7 35lb issues. 16 Balancing Jack: California to Southern Africa, from Nepal to cause they wanted to share sci- The dates for the classes are: Malaysia, and from British Columbia to France, Duke Rat Terrier/Chihuahua Mix 7 20lb ence and wildlife conservation Chapter 24 25  Training Guide For The Blind the people who created Rogues have reached We’re so excited to bring to you our fifth annual Filson Australian Cattle Dog 5 45lb with the world. March 15-March 28 heroes issue, featuring heroes from across the Pacific With Seattle Puppy Raisers some of the world’s most remote ranges, and all Hiccup Cattle Dog / Mix 7 47lb March 31-April 14 Northwest and beyond. Each is doing their part to 17 The Journey Of in the name of conservation. With more than 65 “Educational outreach is a big make a difference in the world. We’re humbled to Smart Dixie Jones years of collective experience, the Rogues have Hooper Black Lab/Mix 5 60lb component of what we do, and “We have to act now. Conservation 27  Heroes in Australia searched by land, sea, and air for indications of be able to honor them. Please join Pet Connection Part VIII Jack Cattle Dog/Mix 8 50lb dogs are the perfect vehicle,” Jen- doesn’t have that time. We need to Magazine as we celebrate them and thank them for nifer said. Max Australian Cattle Dog/Mix 14 45lb band together and work toward com- all that they do. munal goals,” Jennifer said. 18 Earth Day 50th Anniversary! ABOUT THE COVER! Nelson Australian Cattle Dog/Mix 5 38lb Recent Projects PS- The Dog Gone Easter Egg Hunt, founded by Pet Pips Australian Cattle Dog 10 35lb There are between 100 to 300 To learn more about how you can Connection Magazine, is happening on April 4th at the The Rogue Detection Teams Humboldt martens left in the 19 College Dogs Ranger Black Lab/Mix 7 72lb support the Rogue Detection Teams, RAC in Olympia! are based out of scenic Rice, world, and last fall, the Rogues visit roguedogs.org. Follow their ad- Scooby Black Lab/Mix 13 65lb were on the job on the Oregon Washington, but their heroic ventures on Facebook, Instagram and 20 For The Greater Good Winnie Black Lab/Mix 8 46lb coast to help locate them and - Tracy Campion find ways to conserve their dwin- Twitter at Rogue Detection Team. work has a worldwide impact! Skye Australian Kelpie/Mix 6 36lb dling population. 2 Pet Connection Magazine North Edition March/April 2020 Zilly Australian Cattle Dog 9 32lb www.petconnectionmagazine.com 3 estled in the foothills of the Cascade Mountains, Chimpanzee Sanctuary Scoop it, bag it, and put it in the trash. Northwest is home to Nten chimpanzees and four beautiful bovines. But the heartbeats that you might not often hear about belong to those who care for these Pet Waste is beings, 7 days a week, 365 days a hazardous to our health year. They belong to the volunteers and the waterways that of CSNW, who provide daily care, flow to Puget Sound. including meals, cleaning, and enrichment. Best friends don't let best friends These volunteers are heroes for leave poop the animals. As CSNW caregiver Register here: paws.ejoinme.org/wildnight on the ground. Anthony Denice wrote in a blog about the best volunteers, “To say we lean on our volunteers (and Due to popular demand, interns) when times get tough is an understatement… Pet Connection Magazine now offers: “Volunteering is a big commitment. Just to even be on site, applicants must go through rigorous training…

“It truly is a diverse, talented, and diligent group of people. I can’t say PugetSoundStartsHere.org SUBSCRIPTIONS! that any one of them is the best More info at Seattle.gov/util/petwaste volunteer, but I like to brag that we Never miss an issue again, sign up today! really do have the best volunteers.” www.petconnectionmagazine.com

“Volunteering is a HOOT! 2020 big commitment. Saturday, June 13th Roy Robinson Subaru Just to even be on site, applicants Sodo Park, Seattle must go through Benefits Chimpanzee Sanctuary Northwest We are rigorous training… Tickets on sale soon. Pet Friendly www.chimpsnw.org/events/hoot-2020 RoyRobinsonSubaru.com April is National Volunteer 6001 33rd Ave NE Month. Please join us in Marysville, WA 98271 thanking the volunteers (360) 659-6237 of CSNW! To find out how Just Off I-5 at Exit 199 In Low Overhead Marysville you can support CSNW,

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4 Pet Connection Magazine North Edition March/April 2020 www.petconnectionmagazine.com 5 CONNECTIONS <<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< approached a pile of deer contemplative, his light eyes bones, including a pelvis and going back and forth from Their story is worth telling. leg bones with sinew still Spencer, off in the distance, attached. He took a bone in to me, standing before him, his mouth but dropped it notebook in hand. WDFW Officer immediately as his partner told him to “leave it.” “You see them thanking everyone, and then they just Dustin Prater and K9 Bear dogs like Spencer are break down emotionally at the used to help protect bears end…They know they aren’t Officer Spencer instead of using lethal force going to play again. They’re when bears and humans done with that part of their by Tracy Campion fourteen weeks old. Officer Prater that time, share the same space. With lives. Well, Spencer completes and his wife, Julie, drove out to the Karelian continued encroachment into me as a ‘player.’ I’m a better the Wind River Bear Institute in Bear Dogs lands where bears historically officer with him by my side, Montana in February of 2012. Little and their fficer Dustin Prater roamed, these incidents whether we’re looking for a Spencer was in the kennel with his partners watched as his partner, are becoming increasingly bear or not. We have complete siblings, who were sleeping. But have Spencer the Karelian common. trust and understanding. He’ll Spencer’s eyes were fixed on the provided a Bear Dog, ran along the tell me when he’s ready to couple and their truck. His focus deterrent Ohorizon, his tail held high, his nose “We teach landowners how to Spencer and I were there within retire, and then I will, too.” on his new partner hasn’t faltered to bears, to the ground. Almost as if he avoid attracting wildlife, including thirty minutes,” Officer Prater since that day. Spencer fit in well responded how to handle their chicken feed Officer Prater’s soft eyes were sensed his partner talking about game warden that forever changed wanting Spencer to cross a busy recalled. “The bear was going over in the Prater household, which to bear and mountain wildlife and garbage,” he explained. “The damp. Mine were, too. I hadn’t him, Spencer glanced back over at his perspective – and his career road in pursuit of a bear – a shock. fences, and we were crawling included their three girls and, up complaints, assisted in a homicide phrase goes, ‘A fed bear is a dead expected to be choked up. But us. At eight years of age, he wasn’t path, as well. underneath them. This was a hot until two years ago, their beloved investigation, helped investigate bear,’ and it’s against the law to hearing that Officer Prater – who slowing down…yet. “I’ve rarely had to use the shock, day, and it was about 2:00 p.m., black Lab, Gracie. poaching cases, assisted in non- feed them. We don’t want bears to and we were running constantly was entering his twentieth year as lethal “hard releases” of bears to “I grew up in the South Park and it was only in safety situations I watched Spencer, who was be habituated; we want them to for 45 minutes. We were worried a game warden for the Washington The Washington Department of restore their natural fear of humans, neighborhood of Seattle,” he said, like that,” Officer Prater said. exploring the landscape with remain wild and healthy.” that a homeowner might shoot the Department of Fish and Wildlife Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) Karelian and provided educational outreach “and my family hunted and fished. (WDFW) – wanted to retire when working dog photographer Holly As he spoke, Spencer continued bear or that he might get hit by a Dirtie Dog Photography Bear Dog program began with at schools and public events I’d hear negative stories about PAWS, located in Lynnwood, Spencer did, too, spoke not only Cook. They wove in and out of sight to explore with Holly. Even from a car. We got picked up by Lakewood biologist Rocky Spencer, who in statewide to share the WDFW’s game wardens, and I was fearful Washington, cares for orphaned to the depth of their partnership, C A P T U R I N G T H E S T O R Y O F A N I M A L S as Spencer followed his nose, alert distance, I could see that he was Animal Control because our 2003 partnered with a black and mission. of them. One day when we were bear cubs. When these bears are but also of their connection and F O R T H E P E O P L E W H O L O V E T H E M . and curious. smiling. As they approached us, vehicle was far away by that point, white dog named Mishka. Their fishing in Eastern Washington, ready to be released, the WDFW commitment to one another. we saw that Holly was carrying and then we got a call that the W W W . D I R T I E D O G P H O T O G R A P H Y . C O M goal? To reduce human-bear “It all began with Rocky Spencer a game warden approached my Karelian Bear dog teams are The Karelian Bear Dog Program is Spencer became a part of Officer something; it turned out to be a bear was six houses away. When conflicts in Washington State. Since and Mishka,” Officer Prater said. father and me. He checked our present to ensure that they’re budget-neutral, with no funds paid Prater’s life when he was only rather large Muscovy goose that we stopped the truck, Spencer fishing licenses, and checked what deterred from returning to areas from the WDFW agency budget. Spencer had found. got to the bear so quickly that After Spencer’s untimely we’d caught, and then he spent where humans live. it couldn’t go over the fence. We The program is 100% supported death in 2007, Officer Prater 45 minutes just talking with us. It by private donations. By donating “I brought dinner!” Holly said, were able to shoot the bear with honored his friend by naming was such a positive experience. I “We do what’s called a hard today, you can help support the laughing. “Spencer kept on nudging an immobilization dart and then his canine partner after him. appreciated what he was doing, and release,” Officer Prater explained. mission of these hardworking dogs. the goose with his nose, and I safely relocate it.” Mishka retired in 2015. In “The bear is in a culvert trap, and why, and from that point onward, I felt like I needed to bring it back.” E-BOOKS addition to Officer Prater and the dogs are barking. It’s adverse wanted to be a game warden. My Spencer looked from the goose to “Rugged Justice gave the public a Spencer, there are three more conditioning. When we release the misconception of what they were Holly, and then fixed his eyes on good sense of the work that we Furry Tails teams, including Nick Jorg and bears, we shoot them with a bean like was completely opposite of Officer Prater. do,” he said. It also provided a To make a donation, Filomena and the Fox his canine partners, Colter and what was true.” bag, then release a cracker shell, window into their partnership. A fox’s tale of unlikely friendship Freya, Keith Kirsch and Jax, and which is an M-80 noisemaker. send a check or Charming fairy tales “Find it,” Officer Prater said to Rich Beausoleil and Indy, who is We’re teaching the bears Spencer, who was showing us how Spencer, who trotted off, eyes soft, “I wouldn’t trade him for money order to: Spencer’s brother. boundaries. They usually don’t with a modern twist he searched for an animal, was smiling, and tail aloft. There wasn’t anything,” Officer Prater said. come back, but if they do, that’s a WDFW – KBD Fund wearing his standard uniform: a a bear to find (that we knew of, at Spencer’s smile and wagging tail Officer Prater and Spencer are different problem.” Fortunately for – for all ages radio collar that’s affixed with a least!) but Spencer trotted off in said the same thing. 16018 Mill Creek an incomparable team, working Washington’s bears, the strategy GPS. If Spencer was out of earshot, search of whatever he could find. to protect wildlife throughout has been largely successful. Boulevard Officer Prater had a handset that “You know when you see athletes Washington State. When he was Three Tails he could use to cause a vibration “He’ll air scent and ground scent,” on television, and they’re Mill Creek, WA 98012 An uplifting tale of love, compassion and acceptance ten years old, Officer Prater had Spencer and Officer Prater starred Officer Prater explained. “Right now, announcing their retirement?” a profound experience with a or – in safety situations, such as not in Animal Planet’s Rugged Justice, he’s trying to cut the wind. You Officer Prater asked me. He was where they helped locate can watch his tail, and when he’s Courage and Power poached animals, including D. E. McDonaldThe Real Truth about Red Riding Hood, Illustrated by Susan Andra Lionas told by Gray Wolf hot on something, it will start to 1 a trophy elk. “Sometimes, ‘tick,’ wagging ever so slightly, but we’ll go two weeks without he doesn’t bark until he actually • Daycare Packages a wildlife-related incident, has his eyes on the bear. And that’s Never Expire • HEPA Filtered Air and then we’ll get two calls pretty typical of Karelian Bear in one day,” he said. Spencer • Filtered Water • Free Password Dogs. I can be 100 yards away, and located the body and a if I hear barking, I know that he for all Dogs Protected Web Cams student officer used a metal has eyes on the bear. He has likely • Fast Bar Code • K9 CPR/First Aid detector to find the bullet D. E. McDonald Illustrated by Susan Andra Lion either treed it or bayed it – which 1 that killed the animal. The Check In/Out Certified Staff is when he’s circling the bear.” human who illegally killed the animal remains at large. There didn’t seem to be a bear AnimalConsciousness.com D. E. McDonald Illustrated by Susan Andra Lion about, but Spencer was busy 1 Another call involved a SMART DOG DAYCARE™ Written by D. E. McDonald inspecting everything in the field. bear that had traveled from Illustrated by Susan Andra Lion “We work on the fly; I used to It’s what dogs crave! Joint Base Lewis McChord have a frozen bear paw that I used, to Lakewood. “I was off duty Photos by Holly Cook Photography but I gave it to another handler,” when I got the call, but 425-905-DOGS 6 Pet Connection Magazine North Edition March/April 2020 Officer Prater explained. Spencer www.petconnectionmagazine.com 7 Heroes in the Treetops Ask an VCA Veterinary by Susan Wyatt Specialty Center an excellent climbing structure of Seattle for a cat; it was less than an Animal excellent climbing structure for a human,” said Andrew.

And Beatrice decided to make Lawyer things more interesting by venturing onto the tiniest limb by Elizabeth Holtz, 24/7 EMERGENCY SERVICES she could spot. Animal Legal Defense Fund 425-697-6106 By scaling an adjacent tree, It’s the middle of the night, your pet’s not acting right... and you’re worried. Shaun was able to reach Our team at VCA VSC understands how you feel. Beatrice and she was soon safe What are Courtroom Animal preventing him from possessing, breeding, or har- and sound inside her home. boring dogs for at least two years — that’s CAAP in Our Emergency Department is available for you 24 hours- action. Encouragingly, both animal cruelty inves- After a long sleepless Advocate Program (CAAP) laws, a-day, 7 days-a-week, 365 days-a-year for emergencies. tigations and prosecutions have increased in the But Beatrice still longed to be night, Debbie went back to state since the law’s passage. VCA VETERINARY SPECIALTY CENTER OF SEATTLE SERVICES outside. the tree. and how can my state pass one? • Cardiology • Dermatology • Neurology If you’d like to work on a CAAP law in your state, “Her adventure in the tree had “(Cricket) was terrified, hank you so much for asking this question • 24-Hour Critical Care & • Internal Medicine • Radiology first head to the Animal Legal Defense Fund web- Emergency done absolutely nothing to hungry, and losing her — Courtroom Animal Advocate Program • Integrative Medicine • Surgery site to find model CAAP Law language — you’ll dampen her enthusiasm for the voice,” said Debbie. (CAAP) laws help ensure that animal great outdoors. In fact, it probably crime victims’ interests are represented find it at aldf.org/CAAP. It’s important to note that PASSION. COMMITMENT. CRITICAL CARE. heightened it,” he said. Tin the courtroom. CAAP laws allow advocates CAAP laws do not change the underlying animal Debbie decided to cruelty laws. In other words, a CAAP law doesn’t 425-697-6106 “We went outside to see if we consult Whidbey Island — supervised law students or volunteer lawyers VCA Veterinary Specialty create new crimes or increase penalties for defen- 20115 44TH AVENUE WEST Andrew decided to build a catio Pet Network, where was — to advocate for animal victims in criminal Center of Seattle LYNNWOOD, WA 98036 dants. Once you familiarized yourself with CAAP, VCAvsc.com could find her and heard a pitiful for Beatrice and her brother, Mr. referred to Canopy Cat cruelty cases. These volunteers assist the judge you’ll need to work with a state legislator who is Ginsburg. “She’s now the very Rescue. by conducting legal research, investigating, meow,” said Debbie. “We followed happy denizen of a newly-built and gathering information from veterinarians, willing to sponsor a CAAP bill. Start by sharing the model language! catio… and she’s still climbing,” “I got a call from Shaun animal control officers, and law enforcement the meows and found her way up said Andrew. within 10 minutes,” she officials, drafting briefs, and, importantly, making Providing specialized expertise Passing legislation at the state level requires a bit said. “He said help was on recommendations regarding the animal’s interests. of legwork, but it is possible. You may have trouble and individualized pet care. in a very large cedar tree.... the way. He pulled up and Cricket finding someone to sponsor the bill, unfortunately went to the tree. I asked The reality is that prosecutors and law enforce- Debbie Norman’s CCR adventure it’s rarely as straightforward as sending an email rborists turned cat One of those spunky cats was what it would cost, he said ment officers often lack the resources or specific began when she returned to and asking. But at least it starts the conversation! a young calico in Brier named free, they were a nonprofit expertise needed to address crimes against ani- rescuers Shaun Sears her Whidbey Island home one If things aren’t progressing with any legislators, Beatrice. who took donations and mals. Additionally, animal crime cases can be un- and Tom Otto have day and discovered little Cricket start networking with local and state groups who ran fundraisers.” usually complex — involving complicated forensic been finessing firs missing. may be interested in teaming up. It’s more dif- Dad Andrew Flannery says issues, victims who are unable to communicate andA scaling cedars for more ficult to ignore the voices of many people working with representatives of the legal system, and liv- Beatrice is a sweet, playful, “We went outside to see if we “He had to go up over 100 feet, Dog walking, than a decade. Over the years, ing “evidence,” who beyond food and water also together. affectionate cat who loves to could find her and heard a pitiful then down to 75 feet where Canopy Cat Rescue has liberated “I took my poor baby into the need a stable and loving environment in order transportation, home visits play and enjoys a good belly meow,” said Debbie. “We followed Cricket was. I heard him talking to more than 3,000 cats who found house and got an immediate purr. to thrive. Our criminal system is set up so that Considering the unique nature of CAAP laws, you’ll and overnight care for rub, but she also loves to sneak the meows and found her way up her but she went out to the end themselves stuck high in a tree, When I went out to talk to my defense attorneys represent the interests of their also want to reach out to law schools in your state outside. in a very large cedar tree. I went of the branch,” said Debbie. dogs and cats sometimes for days. new hero, I asked him why this client and prosecutors have a duty to the state. No —look for a professor who teaches animal law. and got a long extension ladder profession, and in a stoic voice he Legislators will want to know whether there are One morning, Beatrice got out Debbie was so upset she couldn’t one is charged with ensuring the animal victim’s and put it up and couldn’t reach said, ‘We like cats.’” qualified people willing to step up as advocates, Though you may think if a cat and decided that the 90-foot fir watch anymore and walked away. needs are addressed. CAAP laws change that — her. We tried everything, the food having buy-in from schools and professors will can climb UP, she should be tree in the front yard looked like She was relieved when she heard giving animal crime victims a special advocate under the tree didn’t work, and “I thank God for Sean and CCR for significantly strengthen your proposal. Make sure a fantastic adventure, and up she Shaun say, “We will be down in a dedicated to their well-being. able to get down, that’s not the she is a foodie.” giving Cricket back to her twin to research whether anyone in your state has tried went. few minutes.” case. Cats have claws that are sister Vixon, and our family. There Currently, there is only one CAAP law — but that’s to pass a CAAP law before. Understanding why “It was getting dark and she was designed to take them forward are good people out there!” said likely to change soon! Connecticut enacted the the bill failed is critical to running an effective “And there she stayed, looking so very scared but we had no “He handed me the moving bag — or up. Getting down is another Debbie. first CAAP law, also known as “Desmond’s Law,” in campaign. down at us,” said Andrew. choice but to leave her out there,” that went still from exhaustion,” story — a frightened cat may keep said Debbie. 2016. The bill is named in honor of Desmond, a said Debbie. The Animal Legal Defense Fund assists legisla- climbing and just get stuck. Andrew said he’d heard of shelter dog who was severely abused and then tors actively working on CAAP laws to adapt our Canopy Cat Rescue, so he gave strangled to death by the man who adopted him. Cricket had never been in a tree model language to fit the needs of their state. If Shaun says about 95 percent them a call. Luckily, Shaun In 2017, the first advocate testified in court in a or been outside at night. Canopy Cat Rescue you know of a legislator interested in sponsoring of the cats he and Tom rescue happened to be nearby, so he dogfighting case under the state’s CAAP law, a Phone: (877) 721-6369 University of Connecticut law student working un- a CAAP bill, please reach out to us using the form are chased by something; a very came right over. “So, with heavy hearts we went [email protected] 206-880-9268 der the supervision of law professor Jessica Rubin, at aldf.org/advocacy. With advocates like you small number get the zoomies in, also thinking she would quit Email: [email protected] who was part of the team who made Desmond’s and growing interest in animal protection across www.DayWithRenee.com and bolt up a tree. “It turns out that the tree meowing. I was afraid an owl Website: canopycatrescue.com Law a reality. On the advocate’s suggestion, the state legislatures, I’m confident several states Beatrice had chosen to climb was would hear her,” said Debbie. Facebook: facebook.com/canopycatrescue judge imposed a possession ban on the defendant, will have their own CAAP laws by 2021. Your 8 Pet Connection Magazine North Edition March/April 2020 state could be next! www.petconnectionmagazine.com 9 28TH 8TH 20TH ADOPTION EVENT WITH NEWBERG ANIMAL SHELTER READING WITH ROVER 3-4p. Woodinville Library READING WITH ROVER 4:30-5:30p. Langley Library PETCONNECTIONMAGAZINE.COM 28TH 1-3p. Mud Bay, 16784 SW Edy Rd., Sherwood,8TH OR 20TH ADOPTION EVENT WITH NEWBERG ANIMAL SHELTER READING WITH ROVER9TH 3-4p. Woodinville Library READING WITH ROVER20TH–24TH 4:30-5:30p. Langley Library PETCONNECTIONMAGAZINE.COM 1-3p. Mud Bay, 16784PAINT SW Edy YOUR Rd., PET Sherwood, HUMANE OR SOCIETY FUNDRAISER 6-9p. SEATTLE ANIMAL SHELTER PET LOSS SUPPORT GROUP NORTHWEST SCHOOL OF ANIMAL MASSAGE LARGE Painting With a Twist, 920 15th St SW, Auburn.9TH 6-7:30p. SAS conference room, 2061 15th Ave.20TH–24TH W, Seattle ANIMAL ACUPPRESSURE FOUNDATION PAINT YOUR PET HUMANEwww.paintingwithatwist.com/studio/seattle-auburn/ SOCIETY FUNDRAISER 6-9p. SEATTLE ANIMAL SHELTER PET LOSS SUPPORT GROUP NORTHWEST SCHOOL OF ANIMAL MASSAGE LARGE MOST COMPREHENSIVE Painting With a Twist, 920 15th St SW, Auburn. www.nwsam.com/schedule.html event/2318070 6-7:30p. SAS conference room, 2061 15th Ave. W, Seattle ANIMAL ACUPPRESSURE FOUNDATION www.paintingwithatwist.com/studio/seattle-auburn/ 10TH–12TH MOST COMPREHENSIVE NORTHWEST SCHOOL OF ANIMAL MASSAGEwww.nwsam.com/schedule.html NORTHWEST SCHOOL OF ANIMAL MASSAGE SMALL event/2318070 READING WITH ROVER 11a-12p. Monroe Library 10TH–12TH CANINE MANUAL LIGAMENT THERAPY Vashon Island, ANIMAL ACUPPRESSURE FOUNDATION NORTHWEST SCHOOL OF ANIMAL MASSAGE NORTHWEST SCHOOL OF ANIMAL MASSAGE SMALL READING WITH ROVER 11a-12p. Monroe Library WA. www.nwsam.com/schedule.html www.nwsam.com/schedule.html 29TH CANINE MANUAL LIGAMENT THERAPY Vashon Island, ANIMAL ACUPPRESSURE FOUNDATION READING WITH ROVER 11a-12p. Third PlaceWA. Books, www.nwsam.com/schedule.html www.nwsam.com/schedule.html23RD PET Events Calendar! 29TH Ravenna 11TH SEATTLE ANIMAL SHELTER PET LOSS SUPPORT GROUP READING WITH ROVER 11a-12p. Third Place Books, DOG PARK ETIQUETTE 12:30-2p. Oregon23RD Humane, PET Events Calendar! Ravenna 11TH Ehmann Classroom. Bring qs, leave pets at home. 6-7:30p. SAS conference room, 2061 15th Ave. W., Seattle 30TH–APRIL 3RD SEATTLE ANIMAL SHELTER PET LOSS SUPPORT GROUP DOG PARK ETIQUETTEwww.oregonhumane.org/training/pet-training-classes/ 12:30-2p. Oregon Humane, RESCUE 4-6p. Make crafts for kitties, including catnip READING WITH ROVER 6-7p. Algona/Pacific Library NORTHWEST SCHOOL OF ANIMAL MASSAGE LARGE 6-7:30p. SAS conference room, 2061 15th Ave. W., Seattle 30TH–APRIL 3RD Ehmann Classroom. workshops/#clickerBring qs, leave pets at home. 24TH—26TH MARCH hearts & cozy blankets. RSVP w/# attending to: kelsi@ ANIMAL REHABILITATION MASSAGE www.oregonhumane.org/training/pet-training-classes/ WASHINGTON STATE ANIMAL RESPONSE TEAM WATER RESCUE 4-6p. Make crafts for kitties, including catnip READING WITH ROVERCRAFTING 6-7p. FORAlgona/Pacific KITTIES LibraryAT SEATTLE AREA FELINENORTHWEST SCHOOL OF ANIMAL MASSAGE LARGE seattleareafelinerescue.org www.nwsam.com/schedule.html workshops/#clicker WASART TRANSPORT TRAINING 9a-5p.24TH—26TH Enumclaw RESCUE TRAINING https://wasart.org/training-events hearts & cozy blankets. RSVP w/# attending to: kelsi@ RESCUE 4-6p. Make crafts for kitties, including catnipANIMAL REHABILITATION MASSAGE WASHINGTON STATE ANIMAL RESPONSE TEAM WATER 1STMARCH CRAFTING FOR KITTIES AT SEATTLE AREA FELINE Expo Center, 45224 284th Ave SE, Enumclaw. seattleareafelinerescue.orgREADING WITH ROVER 3-4p. Woodinville Library hearts & cozy blankets. RSVP w/# attending to: www.nwsam.com/schedule.html WASART TRANSPORT TRAINING 9a-5p. Enumclaw RESCUE TRAINING https://wasart.org/training-events READING WITH ROVER 1:30-2:30p. Mercer Island Library RESCUE 4-6p. Make crafts for kitties, including catnip https://wasart.org/training-events 25TH 1ST [email protected] Expo Center, 45224 284th Ave SE, Enumclaw. READING WITH ROVER 3-4p. Woodinville Library hearts & cozy blankets. RSVP w/# attending to: april READING WITH ROVER 11a-12p. Monroe Library READING WITH ROVERWASHINGTON 1:30-2:30p. STATE Mercer ANIMALIsland Library RESPONSE TEAM 12TH https://wasart.org/training-eventsREADING WITH ROVER 11a-12p. Edmonds25TH Library SMALL ANIMAL TECHNICAL RESCUE TRAINING SEATTLE ANIMAL SHELTER PET LOSS [email protected] 19TH april READING WITH ROVERTULIP 11a-12p.RIDE Pacific Monroe NW’s Library charity motorcycle ride to tulip WASHINGTON STATE ANIMAL RESPONSE TEAM 12TH GROUP 6-7:30p. Seattle Animal Shelter conference room, SEATTLE ANIMAL SHELTER PET LOSS SUPPORT GROUP 2ND READING WITH ROVERREADING 11a-12p. WITH Edmonds ROVER Library 11a-12p. Lake Stevens Library 9a-5p. https://wasart.org/training-events SEATTLE ANIMAL SHELTER PET LOSS SUPPORT GROUP country! Supports Seattle Humane. www.tulipride.org/press SMALL ANIMAL TECHNICAL RESCUE TRAINING SEATTLE ANIMAL 2061SHELTER 15th Ave.PET W.LOSS Seattle. SUPPORT 206-386-7387 (PETS).19TH 6-7:30p. SAS conference room, 2061 15th Ave. W, Seattle TULIP RIDE Pacific NW’s charity motorcycle ride to tulip HELPING PAWS: HOW YOUR DOG CANGROUP BE A 6-7:30p. Seattle Animal Shelter conference room, SEATTLE ANIMAL SHELTER PET LOSS SUPPORT GROUP 2ND 6-7:30p. Seattle Animal Shelter conference room,READING 2061 15th WITH ROVERREADING 11a-12p. WITH Lake ROVER Stevens 11a-12p. Library Oak Harbor Library 9a-5p. https://wasart.org/training-events www.seattle.gov/animal-shelter/events-and-resources/pet- SEATTLE ANIMAL SHELTER PET LOSS SUPPORT GROUP country! Supports Seattle26TH Humane. www.tulipride.org/press THERAPY DOG 1-2p. Oregon Humane, Ehmann2061 15th Ave. W. Seattle. 206-386-7387 (PETS). 6-7:30p. SAS conference room, 2061 15th Ave. W, Seattle Ave. W. Seattle. 206-386-7387 (PETS). www.seattle.gov/ loss-support-group 20TH 6-7:30p. Seattle Animal Shelter conference room, 2061 15th READING WITH ROVER 11a-12p. Oak Harbor Library YOUR NEW CAT: START OFF RIGHT 1-2:30p. Oregon HELPING PAWS: HOWClassroom. YOUR Learn DOG about CAN animal-assistedBE A therapywww.seattle.gov/animal-shelter/events-and-resources/pet- & how animal-shelter/events-and-resources/pet-loss-support-group 12TH 26TH THERAPY DOG 1-2p. Oregon Humane, Ehmann MEET & GREET WITH OLD DOG HAVEN 11a-2p.Ave. W. Seattle. 206-386-7387 (PETS). www.seattle.gov/ READING WITH ROVER 1:30-2:30p. Bothell Library Humane, Ehmann Classroom. Bring qs, leave pets at home. your dog can become a pet partners team.loss-support-group Bring qs, leave COMMUNITY PINT NIGHT TO SUPPORT FERAL20TH CAT University Place Mud Bay, 3804 Bridgeport Way W. 12TH YOUR NEW CAT: STARTwww.oregonhumane.org/training/pet-training-classes/ OFF RIGHT 1-2:30p. Oregon Classroom. Learn about animal-assisted therapy & how MEET & GREET WITH OLD DOG HAVEN 11a-2p. animal-shelter/events-and-resources/pet-loss-support-group4TH pets at home. www.oregonhumane.org/training/pet- SPAY/NEUTER 4-9p. Cairn Brewing, 7204 NE 175th St., Bldg. A., READING WITH ROVER 1:30-2:30p. Bothell Library Humane, Ehmann Classroom.workshops/#clicker Bring qs, leave pets at home. your dog can become a pet partners team. Bring qs, leave COMMUNITY PINT NIGHT TO SUPPORT FERAL CAT University Place Mud Bay, 3804 Bridgeport Way W. SPAYGHETTI & NO BALLS 4-7p. Lake Forest Park Civic 13TH www.oregonhumane.org/training/pet-training-classes/ training-classes/workshops/#clicker Kenmore. A portion of each pour supports spay/neuter for all cats 20TH—21ST 4TH READING WITH ROVER 6:30-7:30p. Marymoor Aegis pets at home. www.oregonhumane.org/training/pet- SPAY/NEUTER 4-9p. Cairn Brewing, 7204 NE 175th St., Bldg. A., Club, 17301 Beach Dr. NE, Lake Forest Park. Supports Feral workshops/#clicker 4TH ANNUAL WALK N WAG DOG WALK 11a-3p. Lake DINOSAUR PHOTO BOOTH Maple Valley Mud Bay,SPAYGHETTI & NO BALLS 4-7p. Lake Forest Park Civic 13TH Living, Redmond training-classes/workshops/#clicker Kenmore. A portion of each pour supports spay/neuter for all cats 20TH—21ST Cat Spay Neuter’s mission of reducing pet overpopulation Sammamish State Park. Raise funds for park improvements. 4TH 13TH 24107 Kent-Kangley Rd. Club, 17301 Beach Dr. NE, Lake Forest Park. Supports Feral READING WITH ROVER 6:30-7:30p. Marymoor Aegis CRAFTING FOR KITTIES AT SEATTLE AREA FELINE ADOPTION EVENT WITH CHEW DOG RESCUEDINOSAUR 11a- PHOTO BOOTH Maple Valley Mud Bay, & euthanasia. Register: https://fcsnp.ejoinme.org/ 4TH ANNUAL WALK5k Nor WAG3k walk. DOG Agility WALK course, 11a-3p. vendors, Lake beer garden, raffle, Cat Spay Neuter’s mission of reducing pet overpopulation Living, Redmond 14TH 4TH RESCUE 4-6p. Make crafts for kitties, including13TH catnip 3p. Gig Harbor Mud Bay, 4816 Point Fosdick24107 Dr., Ste Kent-Kangley 102 Rd. spayghetti2020 Sammamish State Park.& more! Raise https://www.lakesammamishfriends.org/wnw2020 funds for park improvements. ADOPTION EVENT WITH CHEW DOG RESCUE 11a- 20TH–22ND & euthanasia. Register: https://fcsnp.ejoinme.org/ READING WITH ROVER 6-7p. Renton Library CRAFTING FOR KITTIEShearts & AT cozy SEATTLE blankets. AREA RSVP FELINE w/# attending to: NORTHWEST SCHOOL OF ANIMAL MASSAGE 14TH 5k or 3k walk. Agility course, vendors, beer garden, raffle, 3p. Gig Harbor Mud Bay, 4816 Point Fosdick Dr., Ste 102 spayghetti2020 RAISE THE HOOF FOR WASHINGTON STATE READING WITH ROVER 11a-12p. Third Place Books, Ravenna RESCUE 4-6p. [email protected] crafts for kitties, including catnip 14TH 20TH–22ND EQUINE MANUAL LIGAMENT THERAPY Vashon, WA. READING WITH ROVER 6-7p. Renton Library & more! https://www.lakesammamishfriends.org/wnw2020 hearts & cozy blankets. RSVP w/# attending to: NORTHWEST SCHOOL OF ANIMAL MASSAGE ANIMAL RESPONSE TEAM (WASART) 4-7:30p. Renton 15TH ISSAQUAH ALPS DOG HIKE 9a. Meet at 175 Rainier www.nwsam.com/schedule.html RAISE THE HOOF FOR WASHINGTON STATE READING WITH ROVER 5:30-6:30p. MillREADING Creek Library WITH ROVER 11a-12p. Third Place Books, Ravenna [email protected] 14TH Blvd. S., Issaquah. Dogs & hikers welcome.EQUINE Bring leash, MANUAL LIGAMENT THERAPY Vashon, WA. Technical College, 3000 NE 4th St., Renton.15TH $45 in advance, 27TH—MAY 1ST 5TH ISSAQUAH ALPS DOG HIKE 9a. Meet at 175 Rainier ANIMAL RESPONSE TEAM (WASART) 4-7:30p. Renton NORTHWEST SCHOOL OF ANIMAL MASSAGE SMALL READING WITH ROVER 6-7p. Mark Twain Elementary water, baggies. Easy, 4-6 miles. www.nwsam.com/schedule.html $50 at the door. https://wasart.org/raisethehoofREADING WITH ROVERREADING 5:30-6:30p. WITH ROVER Mill Creek 6-7p. Library Algona/Pacific Library Blvd. S., Issaquah. Dogs & hikers welcome. Bring leash, 21ST Technical College, 3000 NE 4th St., Renton. $45 in advance, 27TH—MAY 1STANIMAL FOUNDATION MASSAGE 5TH School, Kirkland https://www.issaquahalps.org/hikesevents/schedule READING WITH ROVER 11a-12p. Lynnwood Library NORTHWEST SCHOOL OF ANIMAL MASSAGE SMALL READING WITH ROVER 6-7p. Mark Twain Elementary water, baggies. Easy, 4-6 miles. 21ST $50 at the door. https://wasart.org/raisethehoofNORTHWEST PET EXPO 10a-6p. SpokaneREADING Fairgrounds, WITH ROVER 6-7p. Algona/Pacific Library www.nwsam.com/schedule.html Spokane. www.northwestpetexpo.com 16TH ANIMAL FOUNDATION MASSAGE School, Kirkland SEATTLE ANIMAL SHELTER PET LOSS https://www.issaquahalps.org/hikesevents/scheduleSUPPORT NORTHWEST SCHOOL OF ANIMAL MASSAGEREADING MAP WITH ROVERWASHINGTON 11a-12p. LynnwoodSTATE ANIMAL Library RESPONSE TEAMNORTHWEST PET EXPO 10a-6p. Spokane Fairgrounds, SEATTLE ANIMAL SHELTER PET LOSS SUPPORT GROUP GROUP 6-7:30p. Seattle Animal Shelter conference room, FOR K9 ARTHRITIS www.nwsam.com/schedule.html GENERAL MEMBERSHIP MEETING 3-5p.King County 16TH www.nwsam.com/schedule.html30TH NORTHWEST SCHOOL OF ANIMAL MASSAGE MAP Spokane. www.northwestpetexpo.comADOPTION EVENT WITH CAT ALLIANCE TEAM 6-7:30p. SAS conference room, 2061 15th Ave. W, Seattle SEATTLE ANIMAL 2061SHELTER 15th Ave.PET W.LOSS Seattle. SUPPORT 206-386-7387 (PETS). WASHINGTON STATEEmergency ANIMAL Services RESPONSE Dept., 3511 TEAM NE 2nd St., Renton. SEATTLE ANIMAL SHELTER PET LOSS SUPPORT GROUP SEATTLE ANIMAL SHELTER PET LOSS SUPPORT GROUP FOR K9 ARTHRITISWHISKERS www.nwsam.com/schedule.html WINE & DINE 5-9p. McGavick Conference SANCTUARY 12-3p. Mud Bay, 16784 SW Edy Rd., 30TH GROUP 6-7:30p. Seattlewww.seattle.gov/animal-shelter/events-and-resources/pet- Animal Shelter conference room, GENERAL MEMBERSHIPhttps://wasart.org/training-events MEETING 3-5p.King County ADOPTION EVENT WITH CAT ALLIANCE TEAM 6-7:30p. SAS conference17TH–19TH room, 2061 15th Ave. W, Seattle 6-7:30p. SAS conference room, 2061 15th Ave. W., Seattle 2061 15th Ave. W. Seattle. 206-386-7387 (PETS). Center, Clover Park Technical College. DinnerEmergency & Auction Services Dept., 3511 NE 2nd St., Renton. Sherwood, OR SEATTLE ANIMAL SHELTER PET LOSS SUPPORT GROUP loss-support-group WHISKERS WINE & DINE 5-9p. McGavick Conference SANCTUARY 12-3p. Mud Bay, 16784 SW Edy Rd., NORTHWEST SCHOOL OF ANIMAL MASSAGE www.seattle.gov/animal-shelter/events-and-resources/pet- Benefit for Northwest Spay & Neuter Center.https://wasart.org/training-events $60/person; WASHINGTON STATE ANIMAL RESPONSE TEAM WATER 6-7:30p. SAS conferenceREADING room, 2061 WITH 15th ROVER Ave. W., 6-7p. Seattle Redmond Elementary School Center, Clover Park Technical College. Dinner & Auction Sherwood, OR HELP YOUR LEASH-REACTIVE DOG 1-2:30p.17TH–19TH Oregon ANIMAL AROMATICS FOUNDATION PRACTICAL loss-support-group 21+; catered dinner, wine available. RESCUE TRAINING https://wasart.org/training-events NORTHWEST SCHOOL OF ANIMAL MASSAGE 7TH Benefit for Northwest Spay & Neuter Center. $60/person; Humane, Ehmann Classroom. Bring qs, leave pets at home. Vashon, WA www.nwsam.com/schedule.htmlREADING WITH ROVER 6-7p. Redmond Elementary School https://nwspayneuter.ejoinme.org/RegistrationWASHINGTON STATE ANIMAL RESPONSE TEAM WATER HELP YOUR LEASH-REACTIVE DOG 1-2:30p. Oregon ANIMAL AROMATICS FOUNDATION PRACTICAL READING WITH ROVER 11a-12p. Federal Way21+; 320th catered Library dinner, wine available. RESCUE TRAINING VACCINATIONhttps://wasart.org/training-events & LICENSE CLINIC 9:30a. Seattle www.oregonhumane.org/training/pet-training-classes/ 7TH Humane, Ehmann Classroom.workshops/#clicker Bring qs, leave pets at home. Vashon, WA www.nwsam.com/schedule.html18TH READING WITH ROVERWASHINGTON 11a-12p. Federal STATE Way ANIMAL 320th Library RESCUEhttps://nwspayneuter.ejoinme.org/Registration RESPONSE MEET & GREET WITH NORTHWEST BOXER RESCUE Animal Shelter, 2061 15th Ave. W. Seattle. Purchasewww.oregonhumane.org/training/pet-training-classes/ or 12-3p. University Place Mud Bay, 3804 BridgeportVACCINATION Way W. & LICENSErenew pet CLINIC license & 9:30a. receive Seattle free rabies vaccination. PAWS WILD NIGHT 5:30-10p. Fremont Studios, 155 SAVE THE DATE! TEAM TRAINING: BASE & OPERATIONSMEET SUPPORT & GREET WITH NORTHWEST BOXER RESCUE workshops/#clicker THIRTEENTH ANNUAL DOGGONE EASTER18TH EGG WASHINGTON STATE ANIMAL RESCUE RESPONSE Animal Shelter, 2061 Details:15th Ave. GoodNeighborVet.com. W. Seattle. Purchase or N. 35 St, Seattle. Glitz, glamour, & love for animals at a 9a-5p. Remlinger Farms, 32610 NE 32nd St.,12-3p. Carnation. University PlaceVACCINE Mud Bay, & 3804 MICROCHIP Bridgeport CLINIC Way W. 11-11:30a. The Noah HUNT BROUGHT TO YOU BY FELINE FRIENDS!PAWS WILD 10a- NIGHT 5:30-10p. Fremont Studios, 155 SAVE THE DATE! TEAM TRAINING: BASE & OPERATIONS SUPPORT renew pet license & receivewww.seattle.gov/animal-shelter/events-and-resources free rabies vaccination. THIRTEENTH ANNUAL DOGGONE EASTER EGG prestigious Seattle location! Info: [email protected]. [email protected] Center, 31300 Brandstrom Rd., Stanwood. Details: GoodNeighborVet.com. 3p. Regional Athletic Complex, 8345 SteilacoomN. 35 Rd.St, Seattle.SE, Glitz, glamour, & love for animals at a 9a-5p. Remlinger Farms, 32610 NE 32nd St., Carnation. VACCINE & MICROCHIP CLINIC 11-11:30a. The Noah HUNT BROUGHT TO YOU BY FELINE FRIENDS! 10a- www.paws.org/events/paws-wild-night-gala may www.thenoahcenter.org/news-events/event_calendar.html/www.seattle.gov/animal-shelter/events-and-resourcesCADETTE GIRL SCOUTS ANIMAL HELPERS BADGE Lacey. Family & pet-friendly day of fun! “Doggiest”prestigious Easter Seattle location! Info: [email protected]. [email protected] FIRST STEPS: PREPARE YOUR DOGCenter, FOR 31300 Brandstrom Rd., Stanwood. 3p. Regional Athletic Complex, 8345 Steilacoom Rd. SE, 9TH calendar/2020/3 10-11:30a. PAWS, 15305 44th Ave. W., Lynnwood. Earn your egg hunt in Washington! Egg hunts, Doggiewww.paws.org/events/paws-wild-night-gala Fashion Show, VACCINATION & LICENSE CLINIC 9:30a. Seattle SEATTLEmay HUMANE’S TUXES & TAILS BABY’S ARRIVAL 1-2:30p. Oregon Humane,www.thenoahcenter.org/news-events/event_calendar.html/ Ehmann CADETTE GIRL SCOUTS ANIMAL HELPERS BADGE Lacey. Family & pet-friendly day of fun! “Doggiest” Easter SAFE FIRST STEPS: PREPARE YOUR DOG FOR animal helper’s badge at PAWS! $10/Scout. Not a drop off games, prizes, bake sale, & much more! Animal Shelter, 2061 15th Ave. W. Seattle. Purchase9TH or www.seattlehumane.org/tuxes-tails-2020 Classroom. Help your dog adjust to life withcalendar/2020/3 an infant. Bring ADOPTION EVENT WITH CHEW DOG RESCUE10-11:30a. 11a- PAWS, 15305 44th Ave. W., Lynnwood. Earn your egg hunt in Washington! Egg hunts, Doggie Fashion Show, VACCINATION & LICENSErenew pet CLINIC license & 9:30a. receive Seattle free rabies vaccination.SEATTLE Details: HUMANE’S TUXES & TAILS BABY’S ARRIVAL 1-2:30p. Oregon Humane, Ehmann event, adults must stay & attend. Qs: [email protected]. DAISY GIRL SCOUTS BIRDBATH AWARD 10-11:30a. qs, leave pets at home. www.oregonhumane.org/training/ 3p. Gig Harbor Mud Bay, 4816 Point Fosdickanimal Dr. Ste helper’s 102 badge at PAWS! $10/Scout. Not a drop off games, prizes, bake sale, & much more! Animal Shelter, 2061 GoodNeighborVet.com.15th Ave. W. Seattle. Purchase or www.seattlehumane.org/tuxes-tails-2020 Classroom. Help yourpet-training-classes/workshops/#clicker dog adjust to life with an infant. Bring ADOPTION EVENT WITH CHEW DOG RESCUE 11a- www.paws.org/events/cadette-girl-scouts-animal-helpers-badge PAWS, 15305 44th Ave. W., Lynnwood. Earnrenew your petbirdbath license & receive free rabies vaccination. Details: 18TH event, adults must stay & attend. Qs: [email protected]. DAISY GIRL SCOUTS BIRDBATH AWARD 10-11:30a. www.seattle.gov/animal-shelter/events-and-resources qs, leave pets at home. www.oregonhumane.org/training/ 3p. Gig Harbor Mud Bay,READING 4816 Point WITH Fosdick ROVER Dr. Ste11a-12p. 102 Edmonds Library award at PAWS! $10/Scout. Not a drop off GoodNeighborVet.com.event, adults AUBURN PETPALOOZA 10a-5p. Game Farm Park. www.paws.org/events/cadette-girl-scouts-animal-helpers-badge PAWS, 15305 44th Ave. W., Lynnwood. Earn your birdbath 18TH pet-training-classes/workshops/#clickerREADING WITH ROVER 11a-12p. Snohomish Library 22ND must stay & attend. Qs: [email protected]/animal-shelter/events-and-resources READING WITH ROVER 11a-12p. Lynnwood Library www.auburnwa.gov/events READING WITH ROVERREADING 11a-12p. WITH Edmonds ROVER Library 11a-12p. Lake Stevens Library PAW-LATES PILATES MAT CLASS TO SUPPORTaward at PAWS! $10/Scout. Not a drop off event, adults AUBURN PETPALOOZA 10a-5p. Game Farm Park. READING WITH ROVER 11a-12p. Snohomish Library 22ND www.paws.org/events/daisy-girl-scouts-birdbath-award-april www.auburnwa.gov/events 8TH READING WITH ROVERREADING 11a-12p. WITH Lake ROVER Stevens 11a-12p. Library Oak Harbor Library FURRY FRIENDS 10a. Motley Zoo Animal Rescue,must stay & attend. Qs: [email protected]. READING WITH ROVERHUMANE 11a-12p. SOCIETY Lynnwood OF MASON Library COUNTY’S 11TH READING WITH ROVER 1:30-2:30p. Bothell Library PAW-LATES PILATES MAT CLASS TO SUPPORT 8TH Redmond. www.facebook.com/events/249515169391913www.paws.org/events/daisy-girl-scouts-birdbath-award-aprilREADING WITH ROVER 11a-12p. Federal Way 320th Library ANNUAL SAILS ‘N TAILS DINNER AUCTION 5:30p. june READING WITH ROVER 11a-12p. Oak Harbor Library FURRY FRIENDS 10a. Motley Zoo Animal Rescue, HUMANE SOCIETYAlderbrook OF MASON Resort COUNTY’S & Spa, Union, 11TH WA. Info: 360.275.3419 or READING WITH ROVER 1:30-2:30p. Bothell Library 15TH Redmond. www.facebook.com/events/249515169391913 READING WITH ROVERREADING 11a-12p. WITH Federal ROVER Way 320th 11a-12p. Library SnohomishANNUAL Library SAILS ‘N TAILS DINNER AUCTION 5:30p. 13TH 9TH NORTHWEST SCHOOL OF ANIMAL MASSAGE MAP 25TH www.humanesocietyofmasoncounty.com CHIMPANZEEjune SANCTUARY NORTHWEST’S HOOT! READING WITH ROVER 6:30-7:30p. Marymoor Aegis Alderbrook Resort & Spa, Union, WA. Info: 360.275.3419 or 15TH FOR EQUINE BACK PAIN www.nwsam.com/schedule.html READING WITH ROVER 7-8p. Bellevue LibraryREADING WITH ROVER 11a-12p. Snohomish Library 13TH https://chimpsnw.org/events/hoot-2019 9TH Living, Redmond NORTHWEST SCHOOL OF ANIMAL MASSAGE MAP 25TH 5TH www.humanesocietyofmasoncounty.comLAUGH YOUR TAIL OFF 6:30-10p. TulalipCHIMPANZEE Resort SANCTUARY NORTHWEST’S HOOT! READING WITH ROVER 6:30-7:30p. Marymoor Aegis FOR EQUINE BACKPAINT PAIN www.nwsam.com/schedule.htmlYOUR PET 1-4p. Painting With a Twist,READING 920 15th WITH ROVERCRAFTING 7-8p. FORBellevue KITTIES Library AT SEATTLE AREA FELINE READING WITH ROVER 1:30-2:30p. Mercer Island Library & Casino, 10200 Quil Ceda Blvd., Tulalip. Comedyhttps://chimpsnw.org/events/hoot-2019 Living, Redmond RESCUE 4-6p. Make crafts for kitties, including catnip5TH LAUGH YOUR TAIL OFF 6:30-10p. Tulalip Resort 10TH St SW, Auburn. Qs: 253.735.0308. www.paintingwithatwist.CRAFTING FOR KITTIES AT SEATTLE AREA FELINE READING WITH ROVERPAINT 1:30-2:30p. YOUR PET Mercer 1-4p. Island Painting Library With a Twist, 920 15th show & auction to support the NOAH Center. https:// READING WITH ROVER 6-7p. Renton LibraryPAINT YOUR PET 1-4p. Painting With a Twist, 920 15th hearts & cozy blankets. RSVP w/# attending to: & Casino, 10200 Quil Ceda Blvd., Tulalip. Comedy com/studio/seattle-auburn/event/2342159 RESCUE 4-6p. Make crafts for kitties, including catnip St SW, Auburn. Qs: 253.735.0308. www.paintingwithatwist. thenoahcenterorg.presencehost.net/news-events/laugh- 10TH St SW, Auburn. Qs: 253.735.0308. www.paintingwithatwist. [email protected] PAINT YOUR PET 1-4p. Painting With a Twist, 920 15th show & auction to support the NOAH Center. https:// hearts & cozy blankets. RSVP w/# attending to: com/studio/seattle-auburn/event/2375804 your-tail-off.html READING WITH ROVER11TH 6-7p. 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SAS conference room, 2061 15th Ave. W.NORTHWEST SCHOOLwww.nwsam.com/schedule.html OF ANIMAL MASSAGE Save a Forgotten Equine: http://heart.safehorses.org Seattle CRAFTING FOR KITTIES AT SEATTLE AREA16TH FELINE SEATTLE ANIMAL SHELTER PET LOSS SUPPORT GROUP FUNdamentals OF ANIMAL MASSAGE 15500 6 Penny Ln., Newcastle. Dinner & auction benefiting NEW EVENTS!Full listings, visit READING WITH ROVER18TH 4:30-5:30p. Langley Library 6-7:30p. SAS conference room, 2061 15th Ave. W. Save a Forgotten Equine: http://heart.safehorses.org CRAFTING FOR KITTIES AT SEATTLE AREA FELINE www.nwsam.com/schedule.html 19TH www.petconnectionmagazine.com/events READING WITH ROVER 5:30-6:30p. Mill Creek Library READING WITH ROVER 1-2p. Covington Library Full listings, visit 18TH 19TH www.petconnectionmagazine.com/events READING WITH ROVER 5:30-6:30p. Mill Creek Library READING WITH ROVER 1-2p. Covington Library 10 Pet Connection Magazine North Edition March/April 2020 www.petconnectionmagazine.com 11 Do you have an Retirement and Volunteerism animal-related by Marilyn Hendrickson, MEOW Cat Rescue business? Do you need Avalanche Dogs id you know that April is Retirees can contribute to the • To help your community someone who National Volunteer month? community and the causes they • To make new friends and meet new “gets” it? ailey and Olive bounded but the two dogs always approach Volunteerism is defined care about and find it immensely people joyfully up the hillside, snow their work with the same intensity, as work without payment. rewarding, meaningful and fulfilling. • To help others feel better or good scattering out across their whether they’re practicing their With over 20 years of active involvement in the animal DThe reason most people give for Studies have found that retired • To learn something new black fur, freckling their black search or looking for a real world, Carmen offers you personal experience and Bfaces with white. Olive splayed out onto missing person. volunteering is that they want people who volunteer regularly • To challenge yourself understanding of the unique traits of your business her stomach and slid down the slope to “give something back to the live longer than those who do not. • To help worthy causes coupled with nearly two decades of legal experience at Stevens Pass, her tongue hanging Ski Patrol Director Angela community” or make a difference in Findings indicate that people who • To develop more skills or add to serving your business and personal planning needs. happily out of the side of her mouth. Seidling took the wool sweater the lives of others or causes they help others benefit as much as those them · Client contracts (boarding, daycare, grooming, and buried it in a snowbank. believe in or feel compassionate on the receiving end. It’s a win-win • To teach others training, adoption/foster, breeder) What looks like play between these When it was Bailey’s turn to about. situation! • To enrich your life two black Labrador retrievers is demonstrate how they work, • To make someone SMILE · Business-to-business contracts actually practice for a very important she began to dig intensely. by Tracy Campion Volunteering can be the bright There are many reasons why people · Formation of animal-related businesses job – avalanche rescue. And the dogs spot in your day; people report volunteer. Here are some of them: We, at MEOW, have many volunteers approach everything that they do with “That intense digging is their · Purchase and sale of animal-related businesses joy and enthusiasm. signal that they’ve found feeling better after offering their and could not survive without them. something,” Angela explained. services to groups that need it. It If you or someone you know is · Zoning, agriculture & other real estate issues Bailey, 7, and Olive, 3, are two of can swing a mood to the positive interested in lending a hand at the · HR and employee policies and contracts the four Avalanche Rescue Dogs Once Bailey found the sweater, Photos by Holly Cook Photography in no time. It takes our mind off shelter, we invite you to contact us (affectionately referred to as “Avy she pulled it from the snowbank of our own struggles, or at least at [email protected]. · Pet trusts and other estate issues Dogs”) who work on Stevens Pass. Their triumphantly; had her tail wagged helps us put our struggles into Also, you may wish to read about canine team members include black Lab any faster, she surely would have lifted perspective. There may not be our many volunteer opportunities at Carmen Rowe, Attorney at Law Scout, 5, and chocolate Lab Josie, who off of the mountain. The sweater was monetary payment, but the rewards http://meowcatrescue.org/volunteer/ Gryphon Law Group is 10. hidden again, and this time it was are immeasurable. We are all good index.html. We look forward to Olive’s turn. Snow Patrol member Tony at something and it has been said having you! Seattle, Olympia, & Centralia/Chehalis Today, Bailey and Olive took turns Fortune, handling Olive, unclipped her that the more we give, the more we showing us how they would find an lead and watched as she, too, launched [email protected] object that was hidden in the snow. In into the snowbank, retrieving the receive. When we give happiness, Food for thought: 360-669-3576 this instance, it was a wool sweater, sweater in a matter of seconds. we receive happiness. “I shall pass through this world but once. Any good therefore that I can Volunteerism is something that all do or any kindness that I can show ages can benefit and learn from, to any human being, let me do it Olive aren’t afraid of the sound of explosives, Avalanche Rescue Canine particularly retirees. It’s a great now. Let me not defer or neglect it, fireworks, bombs, gunshots, or even thunder. (BARK) certified, they way to make social connections for I shall not pass this way again.” can respond to incidents Olive and Bailey demonstrated how they could throughout Washington. and feel a sense of belonging. ~ Mahatma Gandhi both sit on a chairlift, much to the delight of onlookers. Afterward, they jumped down, each Once she’s wearing her greeting their human partners as if it say, vest, the dogs know that “What’s next?” they’re on duty. Bailey tips the scales just under Bailey is partnered with Angela, Josie, age 10, 50 pounds, while Olive, who is slightly taller, is is with Liz, Scout, 6, is with Dan, Olive, 3, is with “You can see how much they enjoy all of this,” approximately 70. Both dogs need to be light Tony. All of the dogs know basic obedience, in Tony said as Olive came back over to him. enough to be picked up, if needed, as Angela and addition to their further rescue-related training. When each of the dogs found the sweater, they Tony demonstrated during their photo shoot. And every aspect of their training is approached held it in their mouths and raced around with As we talked, Olive looked up at Tony, her tongue with excitement. triumphant zoomies, but when it comes to lolling out of her mouth. While Olive and Bailey Both canine and human members of the team finding a missing person, the dogs are trained to are both black Labs, the elder stateswoman was are dedicated to what they do. Tony has been “The dogs are the most enthusiastic employees stay with them. more serious. “Bailey doesn’t go into the full Lab working at ski patrol for three years, and Angela every morning,” Angela said, laughing. ‘derp’ mode,” Tony said, laughing as Bailey stared has been at the slopes for thirteen. Both Olive “We refer to this as ‘victim loyalty,’” Angela at him intensely, “whereas Olive can be pretty and Bailey began to work with their partners The Avy Dogs are dedicated to the slopes from explained. goofy.” But what they share in common is a laser at only eight weeks of age, getting exposed to eight weeks until they retire at 13 or 14 years All natural dog treats focus for their work – and a joy for everything everything on the slopes – and learning how of age, at which point they still do PR work – an made with natural and The Avy Dogs and their human partners have related to it. much fun their work is. Olive demonstrated agreement that dogs and Stevens Pass visitors been searching the slopes of Stevens Pass and organic human grade this time and again by sliding down the alike delight in. ingredients: beyond since for almost three decades. And the That joy begins with their training, where mountainside on her stomach, otter-style, her Stevens Pass Rescue Dogs have been trailblazers every scenario is steeped in fun, excitement, tail wagging behind her as she swept on by. The Avalanche Rescue Dogs are primarily • Non-GMO since the inception of this program, training and positive reinforcement. The Stevens Pass supported by t-shirt sales, donations, and their • No wheat or corn more than 20 dogs since 1993. Avy Dogs use the The four Avy Dog teams annual fundraiser. They are proudly supported A book by 4Legz founder • No animal by- Cynthia Murray, For the “Swiss Method” of each have a primary by Nutrisource, Mud Bay, and Ruffwear, which Love of Dogs takes you on Training to be an Avy Dog starts at an early age; training. It takes three human partner; most provides their gear. products a journey of love, heart- Bailey has been part of the program since she years of training teams have secondary • No salt or refined came to live with Angela at eight weeks old. break, and a full circle to become a fully partners, as well. “We all Olive, who joined the program three years after Learn more about them at sugar moment. Purchase now on certified Avalanche know each others’ dogs www.stevenspass.com/the-mountain/ • MADE IN THE USA Amazon.com! Bailey, has been training alongside her elder Rescue Dog. In-house so well, and regardless statesdog since she was eight weeks old, as well. certification is the of who they’re working more-options/avalanche-safety.aspx and first step. This is the with, we try to make follow their adventures on Facebook at “During their first year, we work on basic To register or for more information, visit: minimum requirement this the most exciting @StevensPassAvalancheRescueDogs. www.4legz.com training,” Angela explained. “Later, we train them for an Avy Dog; once game ever for them,” on chairlifts, snowmobiles, and helicopters.” a dog is Back Country Angela explained. www.safehorses.org/news-updates/upcoming-events The training is so thorough that Bailey and www.petconnectionmagazine.com 13 Looking for that perfect gift? Consider a custom painting by “Tabby” Tabigail Van Buren is the Animal Friends Portraits BeBe Your Your best friend you’ve never had. Superhero! website: www.AnimalFriendsPortraits.com Superhero! shopping: www. AnimalFrenzArt.Etsy.com by Sassafras Lowrey Dog’s email: [email protected] Dog’s Dear Tabby... phone: 206.601.6278 Sacred Embers Memorial Items

ou are a superhero! No really, no matter overwhelm your dog. If you get somewhere you a place where our dog’s will see us as superheroes Created with ashes and/or who you are, what you do for a living, thought your dog would enjoy, but find that your when we advocate for them. At many clinics it’s hair of your loved ones placed how much money you have, in the dog is struggling, be it the park or a dog-friendly becoming increasingly common for vaccines to Dear Tabby, I’ve got a girl that I deeply care for, she’s an amazing, kind cat, between layers of glass and eyes of your dog, you are a superhero! event, don’t be afraid to change plans and leave. be given at quick “tech appointments,” where you she’s supportive of my hobbies, intelligent, funny… there’s just this one thing. It’s one of the most wonderful things As adult humans we (generally) have the ability and your dog won’t meet with the vet directly. For It’s driving me up a wall, but to be honest, I don’t know how to approach it. 253.227.8871 kiln fired. about dogs: they see the very best in to make decisions about where and when we go those quick appointments that don’t include a full It’s just… she won’t shut up! All day, all night. I’m trying to sleep and she just… us. Our dogs already see us as their places, and have the ability to opt out. Dogs don’t exam, you don’t have to allow your dog to be taken yowls. All the time! It seems incessant at this point, though it’s really only for superheroes – it’s up to us to try as hard as we can often have that same opportunity, and instead are to the back for a blood draw or a vaccine to be www.sacredembers.com toY live up to how our dogs see us, here are a few tips frequently dragged along regardless of how they administered. Instead, you can request that all vet a week, every other week. I’m struggling to keep it together. Her demands are to show up for your dog more intentionally that put might feel. Whenever possible, it’s important to shift care and procedures to happen with you present. constant and I’m not sure how much longer I can make this work. She’s not even their feelings and desires first in your life together. that aspect of our relationship and give our dogs Being a superhero advocate is important for all a Siamese, which my mother always warned me about…. those same opportunities to opt out of stressful dogs, not just dogs who might have behavioral Intentional Time situations. Bring your dog to the events and sports special needs. Every dog has boundaries and What should I do? Should I give up? Is it worth it to make it work? Please help! More than expensive toys or gourmet treats what that he likes best, instead of pushing them to do preferences. Lost in Langley our dogs really want is to spend time with us, and things that we might want. Obviously, there are not time near us while we are on our laptops or exceptions: vet visits need to happen, grooming Be Pushy Dear Lost, With any relationship, it’s important to work to meet halfway. staring at our phones. Dogs want us to play with needs to happen, but whenever possible give your Being a superhero to your dog might mean being Remember, you are partners first, and open communication is vital to a healthy them, our dogs want to spend time with us where dog choices and options. seen as rude or pushy by other people and that’s OK! partnership. I’m sure your sweetheart is just as stressed as you are about this our focus is on them. One of the biggest ways that Try to be firm but polite as you advocate for your behavior, and it’s probably causing her lots of problems she’s not ready to speak we can be superheroes for our dogs is to create Advocate dog, because it’s likely to get a better response from more time in our busy days to engage with them. One of the most meaningful ways to be a superhero people. If you have the time and energy feel free to to you about. Meet her in the middle, and suggest that you both go get spayed Everything from setting your alarm a few minutes for your dog is to be your dog’s biggest advocate. All educate people about dog behavior and why you and neutered—together. That way you are not putting this responsibility solely early in the morning to give time for a longer, dogs deserve to have boundaries, and to have their are asking them to behave differently around your on her shoulders, and you’re also showing her your “sniffing walk” where she can have the chance to boundaries respected by other dogs and people. Be dog. Remember, you have no obligation to educate, willingness to make it work in the relationship. interact more with the environment, instead of proactive to speak out for what your dog needs. If especially if doing so requires your dog to remain The spay will certainly help with her loud being rushed along. Put your phone down when you your dog is uncomfortable around other dogs, don’t in a situation that makes her uncomfortable. At the and demanding behavior, and your can and throw a ball. You can also consider skipping hesitate to request that people keep their dogs end of the day people might not like you advocating joining her will put her at meeting up with people at a bar or restaurant where away. If your dog doesn’t like other dogs to take for your dog and that’s OK, the most important thing ease about the whole thing. your dog may not be welcome, and instead signing her ball, create situations where that won’t happen. is what your dog thinks! You will both live longer too, up for a dog sport, activity, or training class so you If your dog isn’t excited about greeting people or and who doesn’t want a longer can be social and spend quality time with your dog is actively doing something else it’s completely happily ever after? at the same time. appropriate to advocate for your Best, Dog’s Choice dog and tell people SASSAFRAS LOWREY There is an old dog trainer saying: train the dog “No” when they ask is an award-winning author and Certified Trick Dog Tabby in front of you, not the dog in your imagination. I to pet your dog. Our Instructor. Sassafras’ books have been honored by think that one of the most important ways that we dogs aren’t stuffed organizations ranging from the American Library P.S., tell your mother to leave her can really intentionally show up for our dogs is to animals and don’t Association to the Lambda Literary Foundation. comments on other breeds in the stone choose things our dogs would honestly choose to owe engagement to New books from Sassafras in 2019 include a hybrid age, where they belong. It’s unbecoming to do, which isn’t always the same as what we would strangers. Veterinary memoir: Healing/Heeling, Bedtime Stories for Rescue speak of others that way. choose. Try to give your dog choices about what care is one really Dogs: William To The Rescue, and TRICKS IN THE CITY: you do and avoid events and situations that will good example of For Daring Dogs and the Humans That Love Them. Sassafras lives and writes in Portland, Oregon. Learn more at www.SassafrasLowrey.com 14 Pet Connection Magazine North Edition March/April 2020 www.petconnectionmagazine.com 15 Tracy. In between these dates, I received several bounded along happily, at a medium walk. “At C, track You’re not going to believe this…my car broke messages. One of them was intriguing. It was taking everything in right, working trot rising at M,” down! I’ve called a tow truck, I’m so sorry. Can I upbeat, he understood my cynicism, and every the calmly. He exuded calm Sarah W. continued. With each Balancing Jack still see you? verb was conjugated appropriately. I looked at and happiness, and it set of directions that were his profile. He had dark hair and dark eyes, and by Tracy Campion Journey of began to rub off on me. called out, Sarah B. and Gypsy I messaged Sarah. “He said his ‘car broke down.’ in all of his photos, he had a disarming, sincere After twenty minutes of gracefully followed through. Chapter Twenty Four. He’s trying to lure me to a private spot to kill smile. easy trotting, I stopped Smarty watched each trot, turn, me,” I typed. But he also had the same first name as my ex. him at the far corner and transition. They finished “OMG!”, Sarah responded. She felt bad for him, We’ll call him “Mark,” mostly because that’s his SMART of the arena. I began beautifully. but I bluntly told Jeff my suspicions about this name. Weird. Confusing? I hesitated. Should I to feel light-headed luring attempt. even respond? and nauseated, so I And then it was our turn. DIXIE had him walk forward. What? No! No, my car really broke down, it’s on The next morning, I did. That evening, I After several stops and Sarah W.’s familiar voice called 124th Street. A tow truck is coming, you can drive checked my messages again; he’d responded starts, I realized that out our directives. by and see it if you want. Can I just meet you? back. JONES every time I stopped Smarty, I also stopped “A enter working trot rising, “I’ll think about it,” I responded. I knew the We messaged back and forth. The conversation Welcome to the twenty fourth installment of Balancing Jack: Part VIII breathing. I was holding between X and C, medium walk.” area. It wasn’t remote. It was well-lit. He didn’t flowed. He had been in the Coast Guard and he my breath…waiting… How a Three-legged Dog Helped Me Find My Footing Once Again. know what I was driving. I did a reconnais- was an engineer and a pilot. Over the weeks, by Tracy Campion waiting for what? For Where Sarah B. and Gypsy had sance drive-by. I saw his car, hazard lights we had fun talking about everything and noth- I hope you’ll enjoy reading this as much as I’ve enjoyed writing it. something bad to been straight and rhythmic, we flashing, parked alongside the road. I turned ing. And then he asked if I wanted to meet. here were no happen? I laughed at drifted and were offbeat. As we my Jeep around and pulled over in front of My expectations had been moderately re- walls. Where myself. rounded our first circle, Smarty him. He walked over to my car cautiously as I calibrated after my misadventures, but when were the walls? stumbled; I held the reins tight When I began writing Balancing Jack, I Yeah, maybe not. I shrugged. At least it was got out. he suggested meeting, I agreed. My trainer was also and continued to listen to the had no idea the direction that it would representative of who I was. I pulled my ten- TI tried not to feel “Oh, no,” he said, looking at me. I paused mid- The afternoon of our date, Sarah asked me doing her own dressage sound of Sarah’s voice. It wasn’t take. I only knew that I wanted to write nis shoes on and made eye contact with Jack. anxious as I led a serial memoir – one that was candid, He jumped down off the sofa excitedly as step. Talk about a confidence-breaker. Oh no? what we were doing. I realized I didn’t know. test and jumping, so I pretty, but we did it. And as we Smarty out to the heartfelt, and illuminated the healing I grabbed his leash. “Wanna go for a run?” I He saw my consternation and quickly corrected If I didn’t eat dinner beforehand, I’d be hungry, didn’t have her there to finished, we heard the sound of mounting block that power of rescue animals. Over our jour- asked Katie. I didn’t need to ask Jack; he was himself. “No, I mean, you look just like your pic- but if I did eat, and then he wanted to get remind me to breathe. our friends cheering. We’d done was situated next to ney, so much has changed in our lives, already kangarooing as I tried to attach his tures...ugh, God, why did this have to happen?” dinner, I’d be conspicuously full. This needed it. Smarty walked out of the the large outdoor My stomach was but the one thing that has remained leash. he paused to catch his breath. “Thank you for some clarification. “Just breathe,” I whispered arena, his knees rising high and constant is the partnership Jack and I arena. The large, stopping by to meet me.” He gestured toward to myself. Smarty flicked his head held even higher. We have. When I lose my footing, Jack truly “Sure,” she said. his car, embarrassed. “It started to overheat as I Moments later, Mark messaged me. “So, I don’t unfenced outdoor churning so much his ear back. followed up with a second test does balance my life. took the exit; by the time I pulled over, it died.” know what your plan is, but I’ll be hungry at arena. Smarty stood several minutes afterward. As we alternated between walking and jog- I looked at him. He was crestfallen. that time, and I’m happy to get dinner for you, unflinching as I that I was afraid I’d So, I bring you the most recent install- ging, Katie told me about the guys she’d met Sarah B. arrived atop to o.” swung my right ment of Balancing Jack. I hope you’ll from online dating. Some of her dates were Gypsy, and the two of When we read the comments on “This counts as the first date,” I said, deadpan leg over. His ears vomit if I tried to enjoy reading this as much as I’ve en- uncomfortably awkward, speed-dating-style, and unrelenting. His clunker was not my prob- I messaged Sarah back. “I guess he intuited them were flush with our test later that day, I smiled joyed writing it. while some had had potential. That piqued my perked up as I lem. My phone vibrated in my pocket. Sarah our conversation; sounds like we’re getting the excitement of the and nodded. The comments interest. motioned him speak, so I merely was probably worried that I’d fallen prey to the dinner!” show. If she was nervous, included “Wrong diagonal,” “your forward. hen we last left off, your protago- The following evening, as I worked on an ar- Breakdown Butcher. nodded, waved... I couldn’t tell; the two circle is neither 20 meters nor “Hey,” he messaged back. “I haven’t seen a pho- of them were moving in a circle” (we all laughed about nist had naively agreed to try on- ticle, I checked to see if anyone had messaged “Breathe,” Sarah line dating after a brief foray into me on the dating app. My profile was sans “No,” he said, looking like he might cry, “it to of you yet…could you send one so I know perfect rhythm. Sarah my 18-meter squircles) and W. called to me. I inhaled the fast-paced, high-stakes world of image, but many of the messages said, “You’re doesn’t, please give me another chance.” I who to look for?” My face reddened. How had I joined us in the warm-up arena, my favorite, “much stumbling Wspeed dating. I sat on my sofa with Jack, work- beautiful” (really? a blank profile picture is couldn’t keep up my icy reserve. “Fine,” I agreed, forgotten this? I hurriedly sent a photo. deeply. It smelled so good here – I didn’t get nervous until I was and I did my best to chat with today.” But what the test didn’t “let’s try for next Friday night. Same place, it was so light, so bright, so happy. ing on an online dating profile that accurately beautiful?) or they were peppered with mis- driving back out to the barn the her while breathing and not show was that we breathed, reflected my enthusiasm for trying this slower- spellings and incorrectly conjugated verbs. I same time.” That evening, I pulled up in front of the res- Smarty was happy, too. He walked around the large dirt track of the following morning. My hands feeling nauseated. we listened, and we worked paced platform. “Aha!” I said to my roommate, wasn’t joking – that was a definite no-go. taurant. The temperature had unexpectedly out in ever-longer strides, happily cross country course. were shaking as I tacked Smarty together. Smarty stumbled Katie. “I’m done! I think I’m ready to post it.” He nodded. dropped twenty degrees, with the wind whip- looking all around. And as he up, but he stood motionless. He Sarah B. went first. I smiled as because he was taking care of Delete, delete, delete. ping up and clouds threatening to rain. I was strode out, I relaxed, too. Where Katie wanted to hear my masterpiece, of One day after a lesson where it had this. He was ready. I saw that our trainer, Sarah W., me; he knew that those big, long After I got back home, I responded to Sarah’s only wearing a light summer dress, so I rifled I’d once worried to ride outside course. Delighted, I read the profile to her, The next day, there were a dozen more mes- felt like everything was “clicking,” was going to be calling the test. strides startled me sometimes, messages. I told her we’d rescheduled, and through my Jeep looking for a jacket. Vest, of an arena, now I delighted in stopping for dramatic effect as it highlighted sages; one was from someone who lived not then Jack and I settled onto the couch for vest, blanket for Jack, another v—why so many Sarah W. surprised us. As I rode Smarty toward the (This means that she would and he was trying to put me at riding without confinement – and my cynicism for trying online dating, or dat- too far from me. He was fairly cute and his movie night. It was definitely a rom-com kind vests!? I messaged Mark to let him know I’d warm-up arena, I tried to ignore be telling us which actions ease. Next time, I knew we’d do Smarty did, too. ing at all. I had been talked into trying it, my profile was well-written. Let’s call him “Jeff.” of an evening. I turned on Bridget Jones’ Diary. gotten to the restaurant, but was looking for “You’re ready to do a dressage my shaking legs and shakily to do, and where. A dressage better. profile said. It insisted that using proper gram- I responded. I received a few more messages Jack happily plopped his head onto my leg. something “resembling a jacket,” and when my show,” she said. Flush with drawn breaths. Smarty strode arena is divided by letters, with mar was one of the most important skills for a from some other people, so I responded to quest only turned up vests and dog blankets, And there were dozens of acres potential partner. Katie’s nose wrinkled. those, as well. I guess “gray eyes and brownish happiness and satisfaction from out smooth, and confident, and “A” situated at the bottom of As I read the comments on my The following week, I had my rescheduled I dashed into the restaurant, sans jacket, frus- to explore: Smarty’s new home hair” wasn’t a specific enough description, so I our successful lesson, I met her happy. He looked at all of the new the arena, where one enters. test, I saw Sarah W. standing near date. It was comfortable. At the end of the trated, and goosebumpy. He messaged that was as beautiful as it was “Wait, you aren’t posting that, are you?” sent my photo when people wanted to know gaze. I’d never intended to show horses and people with interest. I A smallish arena, like the one one of her horses. Our eyes met. date, we split the check and walked toward he was there, too, and that he’d gone back to immense. There were multiple what I looked like. But I hadn’t found anyone before; I rode for fun. But there just paid attention to Smarty. My we were using, had the letters She smiled. Next time, she knew, our cars together. We continued talking over his car to get a coat. Ugh, I thought, really? He outdoor arenas, two round pens, “Well yeah,” I said, surprised. “Why not? It’s worth meeting yet. was something about the way stomach was churning so much AKEHCMBF, with “X” in the we’d do better, too. She’d said the next few days, but I didn’t go out with Jeff needs a jacket inside the restaurant? rolling hillsides, and a large cross true.” that she said this that made me that I was afraid I’d vomit if I middle.) that we were ready for this, and Finally, I decided to meet Jeff. We scheduled again. country course. She stared at me. “Yeah, but…” our first date for a restaurant that wasn’t I messaged Sarah from the lobby. “My heart change my mind. tried to speak, so I merely nodded, she was right. She’d believed in waved, or gave a thumbs-up Smarty and I watched as Sarah him. In me. In us. too far (or too close) to my home. It closed I had a few other first dates after this; they feels palpitationy,” I said, fully aware that I had One of our favorite places to go were punctuated with comfortable and awk- been making up words for this feeling. I put “Okay,” I said evenly, “when is it?” when anyone greeted me. B. entered the dressage arena. “Okay, I posted it!” I said. Checked that box. at 10:00 p.m. If we met at 8:00, that meant a was the “lower dressage arena;” Plus one adulting point. maximum of two unfortunate hours, if things ward moments. Comfortable: receiving flowers. my phone in my pocket as a familiar face came “A enter working trot rising, “Thank you,” I mouthed to her. to get there from the main barn, went downhill. I could handle that. Awkward: my chocolate ice cream cone melt- through the doorway. “It’s tomorrow morning,” Sarah “Are you nervous?” people kept on between X and C, medium walk,” we rode through a lush forested “What pictures did you use?” she asked. ing all over the flowers and ALL OVER his nice said, laughing. asking me. My eyes flashed fire. Sarah W. called out. Sarah B. Thank you for everything. pathway and then onto the soft, When the day arrived, I gave Katie and Sarah B. outfit. Comfortable: strolling along the water “Here,” he said, handing his jacket to me. “You and Gypsy trotted to X, and then “I didn’t include any,” I said, shrugging. “I guess the deets on the date. I got there early, parked loamy grounds of the dressage at dusk. Awkward: being told I have “eyes like said you were cold.” He looked different from I worried that it was too late, but I nudged Smarty into a long- between X and C, continued the page-turning copy is just gonna have to beneath a light, and messaged Sarah. And then arena. On some days, Sarah B. his ex,” who “had a restraining order against his pictures. I didn’t feel cold anymore. she assured me that she could striding, swingy trot as we suffice.” She laughed, uncertain. Jeff messaged me. him.” After my dates, I always messaged Sarah would join us, and we’d ride register me late. entered the warm-up arena. He so she knew I was okay. So far, no one had 16 Pet Connection Magazine North Edition March/April 2020 gotten a second date. www.petconnectionmagazine.com 17 The impact that these visits have on the students and staff is palpable. Each encounter is an endearing story to COLLEGE share, if only space allowed. 50th Anniversary The visits range from 30-50 people visiting with a few teams in a one-hour visit, while other teams may be visit- DOGS ing with 200-300 people in the same time frame. That’s a But politics doesn’t change what’s whitebark pine are one of the grizzly’s staple foods, but lot of people getting on the floor to love on a dog. Laurie happening to our planet. the whitebark is one of the beetle’s new favorite places and her dog, CB participate in 4-5 visits per week, so she to lay their eggs. The loss of millions of trees means the has first-hand experience of what both the handler and aurie Hardman has been a solid fixture in the According to NASA, the global loss of an important food source for grizzlies, who have the dog will encounter. temperature is up 1.9 degrees to find another way to get their calories if they are to Seattle therapy dog community for 3 decades. Her passion for therapy dogs led her to create several Photos and story by Holly Cook Photography Fahrenheit since 1880, carbon survive. And this is just one example of multiple land Once a visit is over, the dogs are tired. How the dogs de- amazing programs that continue to serve Seattle dioxide is up 412 parts per million, species – insect, plant, and mammal – being impacted by compress varies, as each dog is different. Most of them Lto this day. Her dedication and passion are evident, and College Dogs’ modest beginning of 5-6 teams has grown and we’re losing 413 gigatons of climate change. to 33 teams who serve University of Washington, Shore- sleep while others need to eat, play, or indulge in a favor- ice sheets per year. As a result, her reputation led Anton Zanotto, Resident Coordinator at line Community College, several Seattle high schools and, ite activity. since 1880, the global sea The outlook is no better under the water. The oceans old Lander Hall at UW to contact Laurie in 2010. Due to the high amount of stress his students were dealing with most recently, local businesses. Where ever there is human level has risen 8 inches, and have become more acidic; here in the Pacific Northwest, Is your curiosity peaked? If your dog makes your life better, during mid-terms, Anton asked Laurie to bring in some stress, College Dogs will visit. College Dogs even has a by 2100, it is expected to the embryos of oysters and scallops cannot survive you might consider sharing your dog with others. If your dogs to visit with the students. Recognizing a need, Laurie certified crisis response dog. rise by another one to four because they can’t build their shells. dog is friendly and is comfortable in public with lots of feet. then created College Dogs. Additionally, College Dogs will sometimes utilize regis- people petting him/her, your dog might be therapy dog Species are struggling on both the land and in the sea. tered/certified therapy dog teams from different organiza- material. Whether your dog is certified by another organi- According to the Earth is currently experiencing a biodiversity crisis: tions and will coordinate visits to colleges and universities zation or not, you can start your College Dog career simply Intergovernmental Panel on Animal species are disappearing from our planet at throughout Seattle. Laurie is a tester/observer for Alliance by emailing Laurie at [email protected]. The demand for Climate Change, there is a up to 10,000 times the “natural” extinction rate. There of Therapy Dogs, so she is able to test and certify the College Dog visits continues to grow and, while Laurie and greater than 95% probability have been five mass extinction events during Earth’s teams herself. In 2019, College Dogs scheduled 150 cam- her teams work hard to meet the demand, more teams are pril 22, 2020 marks the fiftieth that current climate trends are the result of human geological history and, unless we act quickly, scientists pus visits, which impacted 5000 students and faculty, as needed. Maybe you and your dog can help. anniversary of Earth Day, an annual activity since the mid-twentieth century. According to believe that there will be a sixth extinction crisis that’s well as other people. event that’s celebrated worldwide the National Research Council, ancient paleoclimate directly tied to human actions, including development, to demonstrate support for evidence reveals that the current global warming trend encroachment, and contribution to climate change. Amid the belly rubs and the laughter of these visits is a COLLEGEDOGS.ORG environmentalA protection. The overarching theme is approximately ten times faster than the ice-age- Humans’ actions have led to the extinction of 500 species sense of relief, joy and fun. The dogs provide both a dis- for Earth Day 2020 is climate change – a topic that recovery warming rates. during the last 100 years alone; under natural extinction traction to the students as well as pure love. has become heavily laden with partisan identity. rates, only nine species would have gone extinct Students visit the College Dog website just We can see this impact on the land, during that same time. In biodiverse areas, scientists to find out where the dogs are going to be so with the retreat of glaciers in the estimate that tens of thousands of species have yet to they can go visit with them. Alps, Andes, Himalayas, and Rockies. be identified, and may well go extinct before we’ve ever HOLLY COOK PHOTOGRAPHY With rising temperatures, species are known of their existence. # S E A T T L E D O G P H O T O G R A P H E R changing their spatial ecology; the mountain pine beetle, for example, has It’s a dreary forecast for those of us who live on earth. taken to the trees at higher altitudes. So what can you do? You can begin with small steps, like CALLING ALL WORKING DOGS! The insect is only 5 millimeters long, saving energy, switching to green power, and avoiding but it’s making big waves with much plastic. You can learn more about the impact of climate larger species like the grizzly bear. Pine change and you can work with your local community REGISTRATION IS NOW OPEN FOR WORKING DOGS TO beetles burrow into conifer trees, where to help make worldwide changes. Across the Pacific PARTICIPATE IN THE COFFEE TABLE FUNDRAISING they lay their eggs; their larvae then Northwest, protests and educational events are also BOOK "SEND ME; WORKING DOGS OF THE PACIFIC eat the trees, which often proves to taking place for Earth Day. Some of these include: NORTHWEST" be fatal for the trees. This disrupts the entire ecosystem; the seeds from the Registration fee includes a professional photo shoot with Earth Day Pledge Event 2020 Holly Cook Photography, a double page spread in the Oxbow Park, 6427 Carleton Ave S, Seattle, WA 98108 book and 50% is donated to Project Canine. RSVP link: www.facebook.com/events/517850168937192/ Buy a ticket: www.gpsea.org Registration open 3/1 - 3/15 Spaces are limited and filling quickly! Protest for our Planet: Signmaking To register, please visit Whatcom Museum Lightcatcher Building Courtyard, Bellingham hollyccook.com/calling-all-working-dogs April 22, 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.

Information: Contact Katherine Everitt, (360) 778-8961, [email protected] DOG holly cook PHOTOGRAPHER P H O T O G R A P H Y Spokane Earth Day 50 Climate Strike Specializing in outdoor photo sessions Riverfront Park Pavilion, Spokane for adventure dogs & working dogs. April 22, 2:00 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. WWW.HOLLYCCOOK.COM Information: Contact Brian G. Henning, (509) 270-7908, [email protected] RSVP link: actionnetwork.org/events/spokane-earth-day-50-climate-strike A fundraiser project to benefit Project Canine sponsored by Holly Cook Photography 18 Pet Connection Magazine North Edition March/April 2020 www.petconnectionmagazine.com 19 will look at it from the people, pet, and planet Beyond Katrina perspective. We bring awareness to all of these “Hurricane Katrina opened our eyes,” she said. SANDY PAWS: Four Dog-Friendly Beach THE for the aspects; they’re all interrelated.” “And then the fires in Paradise, California showed us that it’s a fire and people are saying Hikes Around Western Washington LIMEL GHT Greater Good Preparedness, response, and recovery get out, you need to get out.” But there was no Seattle Police K9 Team Responding to a natural disaster takes a notice for most of those who died…the fires PET PROJECT Disaster Relief Heroes long time. “There’s food security, and paying swept in faster than most people – and their attention to the animal sheltering systems. We animals – could evacuate. “They were just Competes on A&E’s new enise Bash crawled across the get to know a lot of other organizations in this overtaken without any hope for escape,” Denise t started with one small idea: A partnership to ground, using one elbow to crutch line of work. We talk to people at the darkest said quietly. “I’ve never seen anything like it.” herself up, a cat carrier in her other provide fame for the forgotten, a platform for the hours of their life, and absorb some of their Series, America’s Top Dog hand. The air swirled around her, concern and helplessness. It provides them And that second tornado that Denise had to less fortunate, and perspective from the people I Dgrowing into a tremendous roar as she inched a chance to grieve, and to encourage them brave? “It was following the Moore Tornado,” and places that help harder to adopt animals. closer to the basement. she recalled. “This lady with the WildCare personally.” have had the plea- by Tracy Foundation in Norman, Oklahoma had taken in sure to do ride- That one small idea sparked so much joy, and over As the Director of Disaster Response for GreaterGood.org has a team that’s going to 600 animals from the Moore tornado and then Campion coffee and conversation, Pet Connection Magazine’s GreaterGood.org, Denise Bash has seen her fair the Bahamas to assist the Grand Bahamian a secondary tornado hit. When the second one alongs and observe Sarah Bous-Leslie and Tracy Campion, and Dirtie share of hazardous situations. She leads the Humane Society, which was heavily damaged hit, I had to crawl on the ground, with that cat training sessions for coordination of the disaster response efforts in the storm. Going in to rebuild makes the in the carrier, and hide in a basement until after IK9 Pele and her human Dog Photography’s Marika Moffitt created a of GreaterGood.org across its People, Pet, and multimedia campaign that would highlight rescue community safer, increases animal life-saving midnight. It was a humbling experience. The partner, Officer TJ San Planet programs as needed for each disaster. capacity and instills hope in people who have people at the wildlife center saved my life, I animals throughout the greater Puget Sound Miguel. When I heard But this was the first time that she’d been part lost so, so much. would have left and driven right into it without that they were compet- region. The campaign, which would air on Q13’s of a tornado response team where a secondary them. That center became the first wildlife ing on A&E’s new show, weekend morning news on JoeTV, would help cats tornado came sweeping in. GreaterGood.org’s primary goal for their recovery build for Rescue Rebuild.” and dogs, horses and rabbits, goats and guinea pigs Disaster Relief Efforts in 2020 is to be There America’s Top Dog, I was who needed just a little bit of extra attention to Denise has been part of GreaterGood.org’s When It Matters™. GreaterGood.org raises In 2019, GreaterGood.org was proud to have ecstatic. find their forever families. Disaster Response program since January 2015; funds in two phases – the first for immediate provided $6.2 million in pharmaceuticals, pet prior to her work with the organization, she disaster response (for example, “ASAR” – animal food, animal care supplies, and more during When I met Pele in wide. Congratulations, TJ and Pele – we’re ran Animal Lifeline in Pennsylvania as well as But we had an even bigger vision than this. Our search and rescue – and urgent needs by our the massive spay-neuter “Spayathon” campaign 2016, she was a sleek, black, three-year- so proud of you! the disaster response efforts for the Petfinder partners on the ground), and the second for in Puerto Rico following the devastation of creative collaboration also aimed to illuminate the old German Shepherd who was just finish- Foundation and has served as a field responder longer-term, specific community and habitat Hurricane Maria in 2017. To date, the campaign ing her training. Now, at six years of age, stories behind the people and places that helped for the International Fund for Animal Welfare has spayed or neutered and cared for over About America’s Top Dog of 8 foot or shorter, the smells will have recovery projects (i.e. re-planting bee and Pele is a fully fledged Police K9 who’s star- by Douglas Scott these harder to adopt animals. We wanted to know (IFAW). With a BS in recreational therapy, Denise wildlife forage in fire-ravaged habitats). 43,000 cats and dogs on the beleaguered In each one-hour episode, one civilian team your dog eager to explore. The views for ring on the national stage. their names, their stories, and what our community has always focused on those who need her GreaterGood.org will also continue their island. and four police K9 teams, including fan-fa- you are also incredible, showing off both could learn from them. help the most. “I’m a social worker and I always robust in-kind response in 2020 – veterinary vorites from the hit series “Live PD,” will face Mount Rainier and Mount Baker, as well have been. It’s always been for underserved Officer TJ, who is from Hawaii, named her pring is the best time to hit the pharmaceutical supplies and pet food on After initially providing 4 tankers of corn syrup off for the title of “Top Dog” in three rounds as the seals and occasional whale sight- communities and animals,” she said. the animal side; clothing, toys, and books as to feed starving bees, and 38,000 pounds of partner after Hawaiian Pele, the goddess beaches of the Pacific Northwest We wanted to shine a light on harder to adopt pets of high velocity, furry competition. The ings, common from the shoreline. While humanitarian aid. bee pollen to save queen bees in the aftermath of fire, lightning, wind, and volcanoes. With with your pet. While the snows are and the people who helped them. People like Terry skilled teams will be tested on their speed, big dogs may need more room, this is an GreaterGood.org has been supporting disaster of Hurricane Michael in 2018, we again her exuberant expression and eagerness still resting on summits, and the Phelps, Kacy Bradley, and Barbara Jamison. Terry, agility, and teamwork by completing a series ideal place for smaller dogs to feel like an response efforts since 2011, providing cash How can you help their efforts? “Check in with provided sugar syrup in 2019 to keep managed to go, Pele’s powerful name is fitting, and riversS and forests are still saturated with Kacy, and Barbara put their heart and soul into of expert tasks on a massive obstacle course, and in-kind support across more than a dozen GreaterGood.org; they’re a good source of bee populations alive. the heavy rains of the past few months, alpha as they smell all sorts of washed up their work, day in and day out, and all they hope for hurricanes/typhoons/tropical cyclones, 18 her partnership with TJ is just as strong. including navigating a complex maze for information,” Denise said. “And donate when the beaches provide a perfect way to get wonders. is that the animals that they work with will find the fires, four earthquakes, several floods, and you can. Get your company involved. Find out: GreaterGood.org is also proud to have provided Together, Pele and TJ have taken a signifi- scented items and apprehending and taking out and about. While there are dozens loving homes that they deserve. dozens of animal cruelty and neglect cases. In what product would help? Don’t send un- $2.8 million in needed supplies for people and cant bite out of crime. As of this writing, down a suspect in a bite suit, among a vari- of pet-friendly beaches around, we have Richmond Beach Saltwater Park 2019 alone, GreaterGood.org provided over $7 needed items, as this can create a secondary pets to the Bahamas after the utter devastation Pele has tracked down 41 people and ety of other challenges. Each week’s winning highlighted four lesser known beaches Found in Shoreline, Richmond Beach Terry Phelps million in cash, in-kind, and program support crisis. People will send stuff in too soon. We of Hurricane Dorian. We’ve also made close assisted with more than 100 arrests. TJ team will receive $10,000 and an additional towards disaster relief and recovery across to $200,000 in cash grants to support critical around the region, each with their own hid- Saltwater Park is yet another classic, but Operations Director, Save a Forgotten Equine (SAFE) often have to re-route supplies if too many of and Pele were recognized as the Canine $5,000 to donate to the animal charity of the globe. one thing are sent to one area. And lastly, don’t needs and have also provided rescue flights for den gems. As always, before heading out often overlooked dog area in the greater www.safehorses.org Team of the Year in 2017 and won the their choice. In the final week of competi- self-deploy into a disaster area.” evacuating unowned shelter animals. Application of the Year in 2018 from the to a place not listed here, make sure it is Seattle area. The rocky beach here is full Terry’s love of each of the SAFE horses shines The recent fires that have ravaged much of the tion, top competitors will return to the finale Seattle Police Department. The latter was dog-friendly. Also, always pick up after your of smells for a dog, while giving breathtak- through with every interaction, and her Australian continent have left the land charred Natural disasters are happening more often One of the biggest fears for those who survive course to battle for the title of “America’s Top ing views across the Puget Sound toward and tens of thousands of animals, wild and awarded when Pele located five suspects pooch and follow all leash rules. understanding of their communication, needs, and and tend to be more dangerous then in the a disaster like this is that the help is just going Dog” and an additional $25,000 cash prize. the Olympic Mountains on a sunny day. domestic alike, have been killed, left homeless, past. to leave right away. “After doing this long in North Seattle using only the scent that unique personalities provides them with the best Richmond Beach also offers a wonderful or without access to necessary forage. enough, I already know where their mind is they’d left behind in their stolen car. Magnuson Park Off-Leash Area possible opportunity to find their forever families. Series host Curt Menefee is an award-win- off-leash dog area, which is open season- During the recent hurricane in the Bahamas, when I call,” Denise said. “It’s like going through ning veteran studio and game broadcaster Located in Seattle, Magnuson Park is a “We’re running actions through our partners a death. The grief and the exhaustion…and ally between November 1 and March 15. Kacy Bradley the staff at Grand Bahama Humane Society in TJ applied to America’s Top Dog after her who currently co-hosts “Fox NFL Sunday” in favorite for dog-owners who are looking to help out in Australia,” Denise explained. Freeport stayed behind with the sheltered dogs then they get sick.” aunt encouraged her to enter. Their seg- for a huge area to explore with the furry Adoption Counselor, Homeward Pet “We’re funding animal search and rescue teams, addition to wrap-up show “The OT.” Along- and cats. They have had some flooding in past ment aired on February 19 – and their friends. Fenced, but also including a water- Kalaloch Beach www.homewardpet.org veterinary costs, ambulances, and investigating hurricanes but nothing like the monster that side Menefee, expert trainer Nick White is a At the End of the World performance didn’t disappoint! Watching front area to let your dog go for a dip, Mag- For those hoping for a long day of adven- Kacy has a wealth of knowledge and an innate recovery programs to reestablish trees and was Dorian. This storm had them trapped, they Denise works closely with deployment teams; former US Marine and former member of the TJ and Pele work together, I got all choked tures with their dog, head out to the Wash- understanding of the animals that she works with. rebuild devastated wildlife centers that face a had nowhere to go. “They were stuck inside the everyone in animal and human response knows Secret Service with years of experience work- nuson Park’s Off-Leash Area is hands down ington Coast this spring. Kalaloch Beach is Her warmth, enthusiasm, and dedication help the new and urgent crisis due to the destruction.” building, which was considered a safe haven, one another. “We call this ‘At the End of the up. Their teamwork was superlative, and by ing with K9s as well as the owner of a dog one of the best dog parks in Washington animals of Homeward Pet put their best paws and they kept lifting dogs in crates as water World’ – that’s what it feels like,” Denise said. the end of the first half of the show, they training company with locations across the State. Not only is the scenery fantastic, but one of the few places in Olympic National forward and help those who are looking for a new “There’s so much biodiversity in Australia… rose,” Denise said. “Eventually, when their lives “These disasters are becoming more common, were in second place. During the second country. Menefee and White watch the action the park is lined with trash cans and doggy Park where dogs are allowed, giving nu- this was a massive catastrophe and we don’t animal family find their best possible match. were in grave danger if they stayed on the and they’ll continue to become more common. round, a timed event entitled “The Bone- unfolds on the course each week and provide bag stations to help everyone keep the merous beach access points and endless know what we’ve lost yet. And recovery takes main floor, they popped a hatch and went into These situations are tragic, but it also brings yard,” the contestants had to find five scent park clean and to have a great time. The driftwood to explore with your puppers. much longer than the actual event. We need to in-depth explanation on the competition the attic…They heard the cries of the dogs out peoples’ best side. People want to help. And items hidden in movie set-style rooms. park even has a separate place for small From South Beach to Ruby Beach, and Barbara Jamison be thinking about replanting…what you’ll see and were helpless to do a thing - assuming rounds. Jamie Little is a seasoned motor if you can’t help with a donation, then send Pele found four of the five items in under and shy dogs to get away from the more everywhere in between, leashed dogs can Founder and Executive Director of Puget Sound from us next… programs to buy the plants and that they were next… Finally, after riding goodwill. When you have nothing left, just a sports reporter covering the pit road for FOX four minutes, placing her again in second roam with you along the stunning shores Goat Rescue plant them. That all takes time, and then we out the storm for hours, it was silent.” We all note that says, ‘I’m thinking about you,’ goes a NASCAR, as well as an animal rescue ambas- popular and big-dog-filled areas. of one of America’s most popular National www.pugetsoundgoatrescue.org have to determine where the animals will get know a storm was coming; no one could have long way.” place. During the final round, Pele and TJ sador who served as a reporter at the 2019 Barbara’s dedication to goats in Washington State re-released.” predicted a category 5 would hover on them worked together to open doors, navigate Westminster Kennel Club Show. Little acts as Fay Bainbridge Park Parks. Come here in March and April for the is second to none. She’s dedicated to ensuring that for 36 hours. through a “spider web” and several tubes, sideline reporter on the course speaking with Across the sound from Seattle, Fay great gray whale migration, where 20,000 Mitigating disasters goats throughout the state find the perfect, loving To learn more down a set of stairs, and apprehend a sus- the teams as they make their way through Bainbridge is a good place to go for a whales swim within a half a mile from the “We work with local, state, and federal GreaterGood.org’s Rescue Rebuild team about GreaterGood.org’s Disaster Relief efforts, home. pect. When the dust settled, TJ and Pele the competition. controlled adventure with your dog. While waves breaking on the shore. governments,” Denise explained. “We’re one traveled to the Bahamas in February 2020 with including how you can help, visit came in second place, losing the spot of of the only not for profit organizations that you’ll need to keep your pooch on a leash a staff of six and enlist volunteers from around “Top Dog” by less than eight seconds, but the country to clean out and rebuild the facility. greatergood.org “America’s Top Dog” airs on A&E on 20 Pet Connection Magazine North Edition March/April 2020 earning the admiration of viewers world- Wednesdays at 9:00 p.m. Pacific. www.petconnectionmagazine.com 21 Seattle Dogs by Douglas Scott Hometown Heroes: by: Kim Young, Director of Communications and Diane Gallegos, Executive Director Homeless Program Washington State WOLF HAVEN’S the voiceless, nameless, invisible Heroes homeless person to using our voices Animal Response Team olf Haven International has provided a lifetime it, the permanent move of Wendy Spencer, longtime sanctu- and abilities to help animals and home for 300 displaced and captive-born ary director, to Montana. their people.” canids since 1982. This nationally-recognized t was late at night when the wolf sanctuary has the mission to “conserve Wolf Haven looks forward to 2020 and beyond. After becoming more stable, Lora call came out to Washington Wand protect wolves and their habitat” and 2019 was one of started helping others by riding State Animal Response Team our best years yet. We want to continue making progress in all three of our the bus around town, giving back (WASART): a dog had fallen core areas: sanctuary, education and conservation. We will one bag of dog food at a time, one Idown a trail that ran along a steep WASART is proud of its 2019 Each one of us has a favorite memory of wolves rolling, continue offering education outreach to Spanish-speaking stop at a time. Today, the passion drop off, which couldn’t be seen in accomplishments and eagerly playing, eating, interacting, and howling, but when reflect- and underserved communities, make quality of life im- project has grown into a full-scale the dark. looks toward 2020 as a year of ing on 2019, we think about the remodels and physical provements for wolves in our care, and keep working to- non-profit group handing out 2,500 continued educational outreach. improvements we made at both of our sanctuaries. Every ward the recovery of endangered Mexican wolves and red wolves. Wolf Haven also plans to offer a Wildlife Handling pounds of dog food each month, “Nighttime rescues are always modification was done with the goal of improving the qual- and Chemical Immobilization course at our sanctuary in with a great partnership with the more dangerous and this “In the middle of one of our ity of life for our resident wolves. At the McCleery Ranch in Montana, we had two portable above-ground corridors Montana (this same three-day course has been held annu- Greenwood Animal Hospital. The particular area is infamous with busiest years, our two founders, ally for the past 15 years in Tenino, WA). Seattle Dogs Homeless Program has the local rescue community for Greta Cook and Gretchen made that connect enclosures, giving the wolves more ur pets are our family space. New above-ground shelters were also installed, so a mandatory spay/neuter policy for being dangerous for humans,” McCallum, received Distinguished We expect there will be legislation in 2020 addressing members and with them, wolves have additional options for getting out of severe vet care that is provided at no cost explained WASART’s Public Achievement Awards from the gaps in funding WA Department of Fish and Wildlife. There we feel love, compassion, Montana weather. At the Tenino, Washington sanctuary, to the owner. All dogs and cats must Information Officer, Michaela Washington State Search and may also be efforts to provide support and oversight for and comfort. Their presence a brand-new enclosure was constructed, wooden shelter Obrings happiness and helps make be spayed or neutered on the day of Eaves. “Looking over the edge with Rescue Volunteer Advisory Council preventing conflict with wolves and livestock. boxes added, chain link fencing replaced, and wooden where ever we are feel like home. care. There may be exceptions to this your headlamp beam disappearing (WA SARVAC) for the founding and structures rebuilt. Wolf Haven, its staff, and volunteers, continue to be heroes. We would be lost without them and rule if emergency care is required. into nothing is definitely a growing of WASART,” Michaela once they enter our lives, we want The owners must then agree to have sobering moment, reminding us said. Kurtis Rattay, Wolf Haven facilities and animal care staff their dog spayed or neutered after Wolf Haven receives a lot of positive reviews and online them with us as long as we can that safety is priority number 1. person in Tenino, built several new climbing structures to feedback from visitors, and this all makes us very proud of care is received. keep them. Yet, there are times when “We’d love to continue growing give the wolves mental stimulation and physical enrich- our volunteers. They are selfless, highly trained, passionate, we feel like we may lose every- “Another rescue off the edge of a the organization’s volunteer base ment. and unpaid individuals and Wolf Haven couldn’t have sur- thing, even our furry friends. Most One of the many success stories trail, this one during the day, wasn’t and educating the public on ways vived 38 years without them. Being held in high regard as a Americans, despite the comforts we from the Seattle Dogs Homeless harrowing so much as exhausting, they can stay safe on the trails Wolf Haven had to overcome significant obstacles in 2019. sanctuary also tells us that more and more people (like you, currently experience, are a medical Program is of Manda and Rowan. until we got to the top of the trail and prepare for disasters for their reader) believe in the value and sanctity of each individual emergency, an unfortunate cir- Manda and her dog Rowan lived in a and had to figure out how to get animals. We’re working on some Looking for meaningful ways for humans and wild wolves animal, regardless of economic value. There has been, and to coexist remains an ongoing challenge. Wolf Haven has cumstance, or a lost job away from tent under I-5 for over a year while of our technical rescue people continues to be, a huge shift in how humankind regard the dog back down some steep been involved with wolf conservation for decades (long experiencing homelessness. When she was trying to get back on her trails with very few people. This receiving additional advanced other species; we like to think Wolf Haven has played a feet. Once she was housed, Seattle before wolves reestablished themselves in Washington), small part in showing the unique individuality and intrinsic that happens, what do we do with was our third rescue up this training to make our rescues and has been an active member of the state Wolf Advisory Dogs continued helping with caring worth of each animal. our beloved pets? particular trail, and had we even safer. We’re also Group (WAG) since 2013. The WAG consists of diverse stake- for Rowan, providing food, supplies, been unable to bandage the working on more interactive holders: ranchers, conservation groups, hunters, animal There are several ways that you can support Wolf Haven in One Seattle group is working to help and vet care for six more months. dog’s paws in a way that online training to make rights organization, and many others. The group meets sev- Today, Manda volunteers with the 2020 and beyond. with this problem, ensuring that made it comfortable for everything from becoming a eral times a year to discuss human-wolf conflict and advise group, helping other organizations both pets and their owners have him to walk out, we would member to deploying easier Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife officials on One of the best ways to support Wolf Haven is by becom- to understand the plight of home- the care and comfort they need. have spent the night while for people excited to get wolf conservation and management. With so many differ- ing a member of our organization. Wolf Haven members lessness. ent voices at the table—and in the general public—there Known as the Seattle Dogs Home- we waited for additional started with rescues.” receive quarterly issues of our magazine Wolf Tracks, are strong and diverse opinions, but the WAG continues its less Program, this 501c3 provides responders to help get up which includes sanctuary updates, tributes to deceased To support Seattle Dogs Homeless work toward fair and durable solutions with respect for all pet food and supplies, emergency and run rope systems for the WASART staff and volunteers wolves, welcomes new residents, reveals what life is like Program, which desperately needs parties. It is slow progress at times, but the commitment to here behind the scenes, and highlights volunteers, lifetime vet care through Greenwood Animal first part of the way down are considered to be heroes help, you can donate to the non- coexistence is evident in each person. members, and educational programs. You can also sign up Hospital, and even pet boarding for in the Pacific NW and beyond profit via PayPal: paypal.me/seat- the trail.” on our website for our free monthly e-newsletters, World of people who have other responsibili- – an honor that each team Wolf Haven is proud of what we accomplished in 2019, ties, like work, school, and medical tledogs, or you can send donations Wolves, and stay current with our in-house residents and directly to their vet at Greenwood WASART’s trained rescuers member takes to heart. including successfully feeding and providing quality care wolves in the wild. appointments during the day. The for almost 90 wolves! There are 56 wolves who currently Animal Hospital 206-528-3838, re: are no strangers to getting Seattle Dogs Homeless Program also call our Tenino sanctuary home, while 33 wolves live at our Seattle Dogs. animals out of difficult handed on some of these, so we “We’re fortunate to have the takes in animals that can no longer McCleery Ranch in Montana. It’s a huge responsibility to To learn more about Wolf Haven spots. Members of the 501c3 have requested assistance through trust of animal owners, readers, be cared for, helping to make sure pulled horses out of thick mud, staff, the general public, the care for so many lives. International, visit that all sides’ needs are the Sheriff’s Office for volunteers rounded up pigs, pulled cows out sheriff’s department, emergency being met. from Snohomish County Volunteer We also marked our one-year anniversary managing Mc- of ravines, and rescued many a management, and our volunteers,” Search and Rescue. We always Cleery Ranch. The transfer of 33 wolves, outbuildings, dog from the side of a cliff. The said Michael. “It’s a privilege to be wolfhaven.org Lora Troncoso, the execu- love partnering with other equipment, and property took place one year ago, and with organization responds to domestic able to do these kinds of responses tive director of Seattle Search and Rescue teams, and animals in difficult situations and and we’re very appreciative of the Dogs Homeless Program, this team’s professionalism and runs emergency animal shelters in support we receive from people. We want to continue making progress created the program enthusiasm are no exception. disasters, such as wildfires. We don’t consider ourselves after experiencing Teamwork between our groups heroes. We’re your neighbors who in all three of our core areas: sanctuary, homelessness with her meant successful outcomes for the have a skill set to be able to help husband and three small “We had a very busy July with subjects of four rescues who each education and conservation. We will dogs. A lost job, a medi- a number of dog rescues in got to go home at the end of the out and a community that supports cal emergency, and their Snohomish County,” explained night.” us in doing so.” continue offering education outreach Michaela. “We were short- world was upside-down. to Spanish-speaking and underserved “Homelessness hurt,” shared Lora, “but we To learn more about WASART, including how you communities, make quality of life have risen from being can support their work, visit wasart.org improvements for wolves in our care... 22 Pet Connection Magazine North Edition March/April 2020 www.petconnectionmagazine.com 23 hoist training and the other good, airborne helicopter is not 4 had not. None of the teams a good idea. I can’t image what from Vancouver had any hoist the K9s were thinking, but they KING COUNTY training experience. I also had complete faith and trust in Training Guide for the Blind discovered that this training their handlers, and each dog had a was not just for the K9 teams, turn in the helicopter. There were With Seattle Puppy Raisers but also for the crew of the many wide K9 eyes and very proud Unsung by Douglas Scott Sheriff’s helicopter, who rarely interact handlers once this scenario was with the K9s. completed. ost can agree that dogs are “The best part about raising guide dog pups, people’s best friends, but our four- besides the cute puppies, is the wonderful There was a little bit of Before we took a break for lunch, legged friends also bring com- community of people that you meet and work tension in the air, and, for our next scenario was much like munities together for the greater with,” Heidi shared. “Many of my very best me personally, some anxiety, Office the last, except that instead of just HEROES Mgood. In Seattle, 40-50 of our neighbors gather friends I met through Guide Dogs. We help and because I was told I, too, would hovering, the helicopter actually be hoisted. I have as much flew a small loop around the Nominations From with a gaggle of puppies with the goal of support each other, dry tears when dogs leave experience in a helicopter airfield once two K9 teams had raising both the standard of life for those for “college,” sit by each other’s bedsides when as the new K9s (read: none). been hoisted onto the aircraft. Upon the Community in need and the puppies to be guide dogs. there are major health problems, and know Sgt. Potter took the lead and returning, the teams were hoisted We put out a call on social media asking our readers Known as the Seattle Puppy Raisers (SPR), this that we have a safety net when we need one.” explained the scenarios for the back down and the K9s were to nominate local unsung heroes. We were inspired group is part of the larger Guide Dogs for the day and then we all geared up. rewarded, again, with quarry in a by the number of nominations we received! These with ancillary K9 Blind, whose headquarters are in San Rafael, About 9 years ago, Heidi asked co-leader Robin Safety is a top priority for both the bite suit. duties. All K9s and are the unsung heroes who received the most California. Roselle to help out. Robin stepped up, which handlers and the dogs. Once in our their handlers must nominations from our readers. All nominations have prompted Heidi to now call her a true hero. harnesses, we were checked and We broke for lunch and the meet Washington Run by volunteers located all around the Robin shouldered at least half of the work of then double checked to make sure mood turned jovial. The teams been listed anonymously. State standards the harnesses fit properly and were started to relax and revel in their Seattle area, this group is inspiring and full running the club, ensuring that it could grow for patrol which in working order. accomplishments. I took the time of heroes. Each volunteer with SPR raises one into the life-changing organization that it is are defined by The he Nisqually Kennel Club, Komu (“Mu”) the cat-finding dog of to meet all of the handlers and puppy at a time, attends training meetings and today. Washington Police for its generous support of Three Retrievers Lost Pet Rescue. After the safety check, the first their K9s. Most of the K9s had puppy socialization outings to ensure that the Canine Association the Washington Department Mu goes out every week in search scenario began. The handlers been returned to their vehicles to and Washington of Fish and Wildlife’s of missing cats, and has found puppies become the best guide dogs that they “I couldn’t and wouldn’t do it without her,” said were to introduce their K9s to the rest, but some of them didn’t rest. State Criminal TKarelian Bear Dog Program. hundreds of missing cats since he can. Currently, there are seven dogs from SPR Heidi. “She keeps us both on track and makes helicopter at rest. Both doors were They were up and watching, some Justice Training that are either out for breeder evaluation or it fun. We make a good team and I am so lucky open and the rotors were still. While even barking, knowing that the day started this work in 2011. Commission. These formal harness training and will soon be out to know her.” on leash, each handler took their wasn’t over yet. Dr. Lisa Parshley and the staff standards include helping the blind. K9 up to the helicopter, encouraged at OVS for their compassionate, Tony Arnold, who has been an active 400 hours of them to hop in, and then exit out Our last scenario of the day was an generous care with a retired Rogue volunteer at Adopt-A-Pet for years With leaders like Heidi and Robin, Guide initial training to the other side. The pace was quick actual tracking scenario. The quarry Heidi Hespelt is one of leaders of SPR, helping Dogs for the Blind continues to be a fan- become certified, Detection Team dog who has cancer. and fosters pups for them as well. and the K9s ran their paces in was whisked away by helicopter to organize and wrangle both volunteers and tastic organization that empowers lives by Photos and story by Holly Cook Photography then 16 additional His vacation is spent at a large dog excellent time. Next, the rotors were into the forest, near a low running puppies in her spare time. Her journey began creating exceptional partnerships between training hours per Marika Moffitt of Dirtie Dog sanctuary every year. He’s active in turned on and the handlers were stream. The K9 teams did not know month. The teams Photography, for supporting local the Humane Legislation Day. He’s around 20 years ago, when she was hoping to people, dogs and communities. To learn more instructed to run the dogs through where they quarry was located, are run through a rescue organizations, bringing one in a million and never asks for find a way to give back to the region. In her about both Guide Dogs for the Blind and our here was a hint of fall in the believer in getting the most for the helicopter again, but this time, of course, but the handlers knew variety of scenarios, from tracking search, she recalled a paper she wrote in 4th local Seattle Puppy Raisers, head to www. early afternoon air when his K9 units and utilizes as many there was a reward at the end. Two the approximate location just by people together, and being a bright thanks or recognition, but I feel he quarry through neighborhoods and grade, talking about how she wanted to train guidepupseattle.org. They are always looking I met Sgt. Randy Potter resources as he can find to make quarries in bite suits were awaiting listening to where the helicopter light in the animal community. needs both. forests, to retrieving evidence. The seeing-eye dogs when she got older. Now, over for new puppy raisers and dedicated puppy from King County Sheriff’s sure his K9s and their handlers are the K9s once they made it through was hovering. After several long teams also participate in yearly TDepartment K9 Unit at Bandera at the top of their game. Sgt. Potter the whirring helicopter. The K9s minutes, the helicopter returned Laurie Hardman of College Dogs, for 5XL Shelton is a nonprofit that gets the past two decades, she has seen many suc- sitters! You can also head over to Disney+ certification tests with a variety of Airstrip, in the foothills of the is a former handler himself and he were aware of the quarries before and I was ushered aboard with my cesses with SPR, both with the dogs and with and watch the series “Pick of the Litter,” which other agencies. All of this training bringing four-legged love, warmth, pet food to seniors and low-income Cascade Mountain Range. I had is still full of passion and energy entering the helicopter, which camera. I huddled in a corner to try her fellow community members. focuses on the pups and their journey toward pays off for the King County Sheriff’s support, and comfort to those in our and homeless families in Mason been invited to participate in hoist and talks with enthusiasm. encouraged them to get their job to stay out of the way. The teams becoming full service dogs. Department K9 Unit. With warriors’ community who need it the most. County. Good people doing good training and was a bit anxious, as done so they could apprehend their were hoisted onto the aircraft and hearts, the deputies train with things! were a few of the K9s who had The K9 unit for King County Sheriff’s quarry, about 100 yards away. Each then flown around the airstrip and their dogs who have the instinct Deanna (“Dee”) Goertz of the never been in a helicopter before. I Department was formed in 1977 K9 team made their way through into the forest, where they were and internal drive to get the job was in good company. by 4 deputies who took the time the helicopter and dashed to the lowered onto a creek bed. There Squeaky Toy, for providing much- Thurston County Sheriff K9 Jaxx done. The deputies have training to travel to Baltimore to become quarry. they pursued the quarry were then met by Sgt. Potter who needed pet supplies during helps catch bad guys! He was born log books in their vehicles and one In addition to Sgt. Potter, who is a trained handlers. In the early 80s, with much enthusiasm, leaving the gave them their instruction: to track difficult times to low-income in December of 2014 and is an glimpse shows how committed they Master Trainer with the Washington 2 more handlers were added to deputies to run as fast as they could and apprehend the quarry. Once families, disabled veterans, and the American Bred German Shephard are to their duties. State Police Canine Association the department and in 1986, the to catch up to their K9s. they had completed the scenario, homeless. Dee and her dog, Leroy, which was donated by Excelon and an evaluator with Washington department added 3 more. The early they were once again hoisted onto Along with their weekly training, are often out in the community Kennels in Shelton Washington. He State Criminal Justice Commission, training for these handlers and their The next scenario began after the helicopter and returned to the the teams participate in special delivering supplies with a smile on lives at home with Deputy Bagby, several civilian K9 trainers were dogs was done by the deputies, another safety check, because airstrip. This was all completed with scenario training as well, which is both of their faces! his wife and their two kids. in attendance. Sgt. Potter is a firm in-house. At that point in time the hoisting was about to begin. The such efficiency and determination, why I was standing on a helicopter teams were helicopter hovered about 100 feet that the last scenario took only an pad. I was among eight K9 teams considered above the ground. In the rotor hour for all 12 teams to complete. Melanie Ryan, founder of Beck’s Astro! He’s the facility dog at from Seattle, four teams from full time, wash, the dogs were attached to Place, for helping low-income Monarch Children’s Justice and Vancouver, BC, a retired Master special ops, their handlers with large carabiner Once all of the scenarios had families and their pets by helping Advocacy Center. As one of the trainer, 2 civilian trainers, a but that and a short bungee cord. Literally been completed, we removed our member of Search & Rescue and 2 them stay together. Melanie Courthouse Dogs, he comforts title was attached at the hip, the teams were harnesses, accounted for all of the photographers gathered at Bandera recognizes how important it is to children that have been victims of disbanded then hooked to the hoist line. We gear (emphasis on safety) and held Airstrip on a cool October afternoon keep all family members together. crime and helps them cope with in the early were instructed to sort of lean our final debrief. With complete to participate in hoist training. The the stress and trauma that often 90s. back as soon as we felt the tension faith and trust the K9s followed hoist training was logged into the Carol Whitfield of Clooney Dog, occurs during the investigation and in the line. The handlers and K9s their handler’s requests, even if deputy’s training logs as training The K9 were hoisted up, and then urgently they were scary or didn’t make for helping a dog named Millie prosecution of crimes. hours. units rushed into the helicopter. Two sense to the K9 mind. Watching after she was hit by a car. Carol are now teams would be hoisted into the the bond between the handler and comforted the dog’s 13-year-old All the dogs that volunteer with The training is valuable to everyone considered helicopter at once, and then sent the K9 grow even stronger after human and called Millie’s owner, Reading with Rover. These patient involved and the atmosphere during patrol K9s back down the hoist line. such a stressful day was especially the safety briefing is serious and and then set up a Go Fund Me for pups really helped boost my rewarding. These K9s and their somber. Of the eight King County Millie’s collapsed lung and broken daughter’s confidence in reading. The worst part is that split handlers are the epitome of a true Sheriff’s Department’s K9 teams, 4 pelvis surgeries. second where you brain tries to team and partnership. 24 Pet Connection Magazine North Edition March/April 2020 of them had already experienced www.petconnectionmagazine.com 25 tell you that leaving a perfectly ARGUS RANCH Heroes in Dog Sports and Training Center WILD LOVE PRESERVE Puppy Kindergarten Reactive to Relaxed Since 2010, Wild Love founder, Andrea Maki’s, consistent and devoted attention Australia Companion Dog Manners to the plight of wild horses has been by Rachael Snyder, DVM Rally amazing to witness. A 30,000-foot view Dog Agility and her obvious political savvy have As an emergency veterinary clinician, I come the fires to rescue other animals and people. created an unlikely coalition of ranchers, into contact with heroes every day. From our Particular examples were the koala-sniffing Nosework environmentalists, wild horse advocates, animal caretakers, who notice minor changes in pups, such as Bear, the border collie, who sought and More! and government agencies, working in patient health or combat nosocomial infections, out koalas to save from the fires. Herding dogs, delicate concert to save these majestic to our licensed veterinary technicians who like Patsy, the shepherd mix, stuck by their flocks animals. She should be the envy of any Conveniently located near juggle patient care, wrangle doctors, and meet to herd them safely to shelter. These dogs, like activist looking to make a real impact. Auburn, Black Diamond, client demands. There are countless heroes in their human companions, performed these Covington, Enumclaw — Stone Gossard, Pearl Jam this field, and I have the privilege of working selfless acts for weeks while the fires raged. & Maple Valley + The Vitalogy Foundation with these amazing people every day. To offer hope going forward, look to the words n recent months, heroism has been at on of Mr. Rogers: “My mother would say to me, ‘Look my mind in light of the recent bushfires for the helpers. You will always find people who “Wild Love Preserve is about finding ranchers looking for grazing permits on that ravaged Australia. I was bowled over by are helping.’ To this day, especially in times of new solutions and ways of bringing public land, there’s a lot of competition for a the countless stories of heroes who worked disaster, I remember my mother’s words, and I am people together,” Maki said. “If you ap- limited amount of space. As a result, public proach with respect, kindness, patience, land for wild horses has decreased dramati- Iaround the clock in Australia to combat the always comforted by realizing that there are still Dog Sports and Training Center and sincere interest in listening to dif- cally since 1971. devastating fires. The firefighters on the front so many helpers — so many caring people in this fering perspectives, you can find com- lines who risked their lives and worked around world.” When your primary veterinarian requests mon ground. We can rise above drawn In November 2019, the BLM conducted its lines if we so choose.” first helicopter roundup of the Challis wild the clock to save other lives, homes, and entire specialty care for your pet, they refer to Register Today ecosystems are heroes that prevented so much horses since 2012. As she did in 2012, Maki About Rachael Snyder, DVM: Animal Medical Center of Seattle (AMCS), www.ArgusRanch.com It’s that sense of collaboration that’s worked on behalf of the horses to reduce more destruction. Dr. Rachael Snyder completed her undergraduate yielding results. Because of Wild conflicts between the advocates, public and where board-certified and residency Love’s pro-active efforts with the BLM, leading up to and during the roundup. work at The Evergreen State College in Olympia, Challis-Idaho BLM and the imple- This seven-year hiatus was due to Maki and Such great carnage creates many kinds of WA (go Geoducks!). She obtained her DVM in trained doctors with cutting-edge mentation of their collaborative and Wild Love Preserve’s collaborative efforts with heroes: veterinarians, veterinary support staff, 2013 from Washington State University College of technology provide the personalized humane management program on the Challis Idaho BLM and their implemen- and even animals who were in the thick of such Veterinary Medicine. After graduation, she worked the range, there has only been one helicopter tation of a successful fertility management level of hands-on care and compassion hen they were 14 years old, roundup of the Challis wild horses since Oc- program. The BLM’s helicopter roundups and devastation. With so many animals affected, as a general practitioner on the Olympic Peninsula Seattle Natives Andrea Maki tober 2012, versus every 2-3 years. Wild Love wild horse removals cost American taxpayers efforts to treat wildlife, pets, and livestock and Seattle. Dr. Snyder joined the Animal Medical for which they are known... and Stone Gossard met at Preserve’s programs have saved American $80 million annually – and rising – so Maki continue to be overwhelming. It is heartbreaking Center of Seattle’s ER/ICU team in 2018. Dr. The Northwest School and taxpayers over $7.5 million since 2013 and set to work creating a new inclusive conser- work to treat animals suffering from burns, Snyder has a special interest in feline medicine, To find out more on how we can help becameW fast friends. In the following four created new revenue streams for regional vation model a decade ago, believing there If at any time during your day you decades, their lives took different paths: communities. was a better way for the horses, environment, dehydration, starvation, and other trauma in the wound management, and critical care and teaches you and your pet, please do not hesitate Gossard went on to play guitar in the Pacific stakeholders, and for the American public. acute phases a quarterly pet Hintze Hudson by Photograph put your hand on fur or pet hair, to call us – we’re here for you. Northwest-based bands Mother Love Bone America’s iconic wild horses symbolize pure of tragedy. My first aid class YOU should be trained in and Temple of the Dog and was a founding Americana, but their management is con- “Stone and the Pearl Jam Vitalogy Founda- heart goes out Pet CPR & 1st Aid! member of Pearl Jam, while Maki became a troversial and polarizing. They have been tion have been instrumental to our efforts at Shoreline contemporary visual artist and photographer protected by law since 1971, with the intro- from the onset in 2010, along with generous to my Aussie Community who founded Wild Love Preserve, a nonprofit duction of the Free-Roaming Wild Horse and support from Duff McKagan, Raymond James colleagues who College. Idaho wildlife preserve to help protect and Burro Act. The Bureau of Land Management Endowment Fund, The Earth and Humanity continue to pull preserve America’s vital wild places, including (BLM) is responsible for managing America’s Foundation, ASPCA, Humane Society of the the wild horses of Idaho’s Challis area. But wild horses on 26.9 million acres of multi- US, the Gates Foundation, The Science and together to get Although she is OPEN FOR their friendship and support of one another use public lands covering 10 western states. Conservation Center, Summerly Foundation, this work done, originally from EMERGENCIES remained constant. Stone and the Vitalogy From big energy to recreational use to and other private donors,” Andrea said. despite the Maryland, she now Annette Lanker Foundation, a nonprofit founded by Pearl Jam fact that many Certified PetTech Instructor HTA Practitioner in 2006, have proudly supported To support Wild Love Preserve, you can lives in Shoreline of them have PET CPR, FIRST AID AND WELLNESS CLASSES Wild Love’s innovative work. make a donation of any size via their with her husband, website. “Even the smallest amounts faced their own Aaron, her dog [email protected] Since Wild Love was founded in count and can be a big help in supplying devastating 17518 15th Ave NE Shoreline, WA 98155 2010, Andrea has saved countless and three cats. Improving the QUALITY of Pets’ lives, food, water, and other essentials to the Tel: (206) 204-3366 | Fax: (206) 204-3858 Idaho wild horses from being horses each and every day,” Andrea said. losses. It makes In her free time, one Pet Owner at a time. me proud to be rounded up and shipped off; in- she plays guitar www.AnimalMedicalSpecialists.com stead, they’re living, wild and free, “You can also become a sponsor of one a part of this and sings in a on the open plains. Currently, Wild of the wild horses living at Wild Love Your local pawTree representative. profession. bluegrass band Check out pawTree.com/Annette Love is leasing 400 acres, but Preserve,” Andrea said. Maki and Gossard share a vision and is a board Emergency & Critical Care | Dentistry | Dermatology | Internal Medicine for natural food customized for an even more picturesque Working side for your dog! Please join us in thanking Andrea member of a Interventional Radiology | Neurology | Oncology | Surgery | Blood Bank future: a 10,000-acre preserve Maki and Wild Love Preserve for by side with national women’s Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy | Ophthalmology coming in April 2020 that will provide a permanent helping protect one of America’s home to Idaho’s wild horses. Maki their human bluegrass true gems – and for preserving our 253-208-4625 and Gossard are collaborating on companions association. wild places. www.pawTree.com/Annette a campaign to acquire this land. during the She also sews, facebook.com/HolyCowCritters For more information, visit the Wild Love Preserve site to learn more: fires were also gardens, hikes, and brave working travels as much as 26 Pet Connection Magazine North Edition March/April 2020 www.wildlovepreserve.org dogs, who faced possible. www.petconnectionmagazine.com 27 86751 LC QP Lynnwood_Pet Connection Pet Friendly Ad.indd 1 6/13/19 11:32 AM