SE Minnesota’s Premier Animal Magazine spring 2016

wags, whiskers, hooves and fins

JOINT VENTURE Dog gains elbow room with stem cell therapy

A Family Who Trains Together ONE CAT’S JOURNEY RAISING SERVICE DOGS FROM SEWER TO PRINCESS BED FISH TALE THINGS YOUR VET Fascination with fish leads 8 THINKS YOU SHOULD KNOW to a peculiar profession

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wags, whiskers, hooves and fins 9 10 26 34

what’s inside... spring 2016

YOUR PHOTOS RESCUE IN THE BUSINESS SE Minnesota’s Premier Animal Magazine spring 2016 7 9 10 wags, whiskers, hooves and fins Pets on Parade Humane Society Fish Tale Reader-submitted photos of Goodhue County Bryan Altendorf’s fascination with BY BOB FREUND fish led to a peculiar profession, JOINT complete with a memorable nickname VENTURE BY LENA HEWITT Dog gains “elbow room”with stem cell therapy

LIVING WITH PETS PET PRODUCTS VET CHECK 14 16 23 www.thewagazine.com Nuisance Barking Pet Product Showcase What the Veterinarian on the cover Proactive steps can reduce neighbor PHOTOGRAPHY BY Wants You to Know feuds, code violations KELVIN ANDOW Eight vets offer their BY JENNIFER GANGLOFF top-priority pet pointers 18 BY KL SNYDER JOINT VENTURE Bodhi gains elbow room with stem cell therapy ON THE JOB BOOK REVIEW HAPPY TAILS BY C. G. WORRELL PHOTOGRAPHY BY 26 29 34 KELVIN ANDOW A Family Who Trains Together “Earnest” and “Pet Friendly” Becoming a Cat Family Raising Exceptional Dogs BY TERRI SCHLICHENMEYER This cat’s story begins in a sewer for Exceptional People but ends in a pink princess bed BY ANN M. NOSER BY AMY BRASE

you’ll 5 BARKS FROM STARKS 31 RESCUE DIRECTORY 6 LETTERS FROM READERS 33 THE SCOOP always find... 30 NOSE FOR NEWS 33 INDEX TO ADVERTISERS

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4 | wagazine | spring 2016 BARKS FROM STARKS | SE Minnesota’s Premier Animal Magazine

wags, whiskers, hooves and fins SPRING 2016 Volume 4 Issue 1 “Animals are more than ever a test of our character, of mankind’s capacity for empathy and for decent, honorable conduct and PUBLISHERS faithful stewardship. We are called to treat them with kindness, Kelvin Andow not because they have rights or power or some claim to equality, Kate Brue Ellington Starks but in a sense because they don’t; because they all stand unequal and powerless before us.” – Matthew Scully EDITOR Ellington Starks

DESIGNER Kate Brue

MARKETING/ PHOTOGRAPHY remember the day I became involved in dog rescue. I received a Kelvin Andow call from someone involved in Springer rescue who knew I owned Springers. They needed a foster home for a dog who had been SALES CONSULTANT Ipicked up as a stray and had nowhere to go. Ann Indykiewicz With the help of English Springer Rescue America, my husband and I took in Cooper as our first foster dog. Since then, we have fostered more WRITERS than 100 homeless Springers until they could find adoptive families. Amy Brase And I have been involved in the rescue and transport of several hundred dogs. Ann M. Noser It’s funny. I never imagined dog rescue as a lifestyle. But here it is, my passion. And that passion Bob Freund has spilled over to the Wagazine, where we share the heartwarming animal stories that we hear and Jennifer Gangloff that happen all around us. Lena Hewitt As the Wagazine celebrates its third anniversary, we reflect on 12 issues of animal tales. And I’m Terri Schlichenmeyer not the only one whose life has been altered by the love of animals. KL Snyder Who would have thought that a love of fish would lead to a career of cleaning aquariums? Bryan C.G. Worrell Altendorf says he can’t imagine doing anything else (p. 10). the wagazine is published Or that a feral cat who once crawled out of a sewer would turn a family of dog people in to cat quarterly by lovers? Ashley Ignatius and her parents—and Sewey the cat—probably wouldn’t have believed it if the wagazine L.L.C. they hadn’t lived it (p. 34). P.O. Box 9073 Or that a poster promoting service-dog training would inspire a woman to raise and train service Rochester, MN 55903 dogs year after year? Amy Stern and her husband and children have done it 22 times (p. 26). Yearly subscriptions $20 We are happy to share these stories about the many ways people love their animals. If you want to share yours, I’d be happy to listen: [email protected]. © the wagazine L.L.C. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be Happy Spring! reproduced without written permission from the publisher.

SE Minnesota’s Premier Animal Magazine winter 2015-2016 Printed in the USA.

wags, whiskers, hooves and fins For advertising information: Ann Indykiewicz 507-398-4870 We are sad to report that Dr. Jack, the ACK [email protected] Min Pin who was on the cover of our OFJ HEARTS THE WONDER YEARS AND BEYOND Winter 2015/2016 issue, crossed over the FOR ROCHESTER’S “DR. JACK” Article information, ideas and comments: Rainbow Bridge on February 20. His own-

ANIMAL CONTROL OFFICERS WAYS TO TAKE TAKING A CHANCE ON CATS The happy, sad, hard, hopeful, BETTER PET PHOTOS WITH SPECIAL NEEDS Ellington Starks er, Marcia, said she considered the story 9 gotta-see-it-to-believe-it job 507-271-8107 a gift to her and to Jack, who comforted www.thewagazine.com [email protected] 6,000 medical patients during his time as a therapy dog. His career ended as he began to face his own mortality, and though his time www.thewagazine.com here was short, Jack’s legacy will live on in those he assisted. Such

Find us on Facebook: a small dog … such a giant impact. Run free, Jack. the wagazine

www.thewagazine.com | 5 | LETTERS FROM READERS

Jack and his owner, Marcia Fritzmeier. JUST THE RIGHT MEDICINE I cannot express how appreciative I am for the heartfelt story about A volunteer team built 188 “stray cat huts” for feral cats Jack in Wagazine. last winter. We have had an outstanding response to the story. Shortly before the story was published, Jack was diagnosed with kidney failure. STRAY CAT HUT DONATION We are treating him with complementary medicine and he has A Red Wing woman saw the stray cat huts note in the stabilized for now. However, our time together is nearing the end Wagazine and sent a donation to the huts volunteers and we cherish each day we have left together as a gift. in memory of her sister-in-law. The note read: The story in Wagazine is, to me, a living tribute to Jack and his remarkable life that I was blessed to be a part of. The response to SUE & CREW FOR STRAY CAT HUTS the story has been overwhelming from everyone who has been a What a wonderful idea! I would like to contribute to this part of Jack’s life. cause. Please use however you wish. This is my own little While we were at his appointment last week at The Bluffs Clinic memorial for my sister-in-law who was an animal lover, in Red Wing, the Wagazine was available on the counter. A client especially cats! She died a couple years ago. On her who was paying her bill looked at the Wagazine and then looked at tombstone her family included “Teacher/Mother” and on Jack and she pointed to Jack and the Wagazine. I nodded my head the back side in Latin “LOVER OF CATS.” and she came right over to meet him and said she was honored to meet such a special celebrity. The photos that Kelvin took showed the heart and soul of Jack, and I am so delighted to see the many pictures of patients and people who were a special part of his life. The picture that Kelvin took of Jack and myself hugging each other tells the story of our life’s journey together. ~Marcia Fritzmeier

IN MEMORY OF HOLLY THE PIBBLE Holly graced the cover of the Winter 2013/2014 Wagazine. She was a canine blood donor in Rochester and helped to save the lives of other dogs. In 2015, Holly was diagnosed with lymphoma, and on February 3, 2016, her family freed her from her pain. They posted this on Holly’s Facebook page: “At 9:25 this morning, I got my Angel wings as I trotted across the Rainbow Bridge. Muvver and Daddy are so sad, but they know they will see me again in heaven. They didn’t want me to suffer any more and they told me how much they loved me as they held me in their arms at the end. Thank you all for being a part of my life—the best possible life any dog could hope for! I love you all!”

Holly with her family, Ruth and Rick Johnson.

6 | wagazine | spring 2016 absolute joy!~AlisonSaugen and lovestocarry herfamilymembers’socksallover thehouse!!Sheisan and atotaldaddy’s girl!Sheisheadoverheelsforherfurbrother, Cody, nel isourspirited,sassy, andfunlovingMorkie!Sheisanabsolutelove adores hisfursister(CocoChanel,right)andlovestosnuggle.Coco Cha- He’seled 14hoursintohisnewmamas arms! agentlesweetboywho Cody Wyoming(left)isoursweet rescue boywholeftMissouriandtrav- ~ LucyArmstrong adopted over3yearsago. I wrote apoemaboutthedogI Last yearIgotmeanewpuppy But IstillhavePUPPYLOVE Why itiscalledpuppylove Day bydaywegrew closer Why theycallhima“dog” He wascuteascouldbe And runningthestreets Still cuddlyandplayful With somuchtolearn With Not socuteashewas All cuddlyandplayful All jumpyandbarky It waseasytoknow It’s soeasytoknow And lovedonlyme Now he’s allgrown By LucyArmstrong He lovedonlyme PUPPY LOVE for thatdog

Day swag.~JenLeuthold 1 yearold,sportinghisSt.Patrick’s Baby photoofMaltipooToby, now Want to see your pet in print? { {Send photos to [email protected]. ~ JohnSimonette it canbeassimpleawalk. can from vacationstocarrides.Or include ourdogsineverythingwe coe whois11wasarescue. We Claremont, Minn.)andmydogRos- Shepherds (Secondhanddogsof My wiferanarescue forGerman ~Kate Brue this istheSpring issue! weather.until warmer Thankfully Stinky thecathasdecidedtohide Poodle mix.~Tina,Loretto hund/Wheaton Terrier/ andmaybe 2015. SheisaKingCavalier/Dachs- 1onNovember14, Lena turned side. ~KrisRyan,Oronoco believes bothhissidesare hisbest ly-placed paworclearmeow. Fuzz - a rub,heassertshimselfwithfirm And whenhe’s ready forasnackor predators thattrytoinvadehisturf! guards thehouse,evenfendsoff but times have changed! Now he He wasashy, skittishkittenthen, We adoptedFuzzfiveyearsago. in ourlives!~Janet,RedWing al needs.Shehasbeenablessing helps with mydaughter’s emotion- tor, wewere abletohaveBella.She policy, butwiththehelpofourdoc- ago. Ourapartmenthasano-pet sweetest. We adopted her 2 years Here isourBellagirl.Shethe www.thewagazine.com | YOUR PHOTOS [email protected] NEXT ISSUE: NEXT Send to your pics to take your pet? favorite place What is your is What |

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8 | wagazine | spring 2016 RESCUE | HUMANE SOCIETY OF GOODHUE COUNTY By Bob Freund | Photography by Kelvin Andow

Left: Julie Moxley with Alvin, Elaine Morgan with Pickles (the guinea pig) and Kendall Dickinson with Dijon. Right: Annette Fennern with Coco.

ESTABLISHED: 1983 LOCATION: 1213 Brick Ave., Red Wing MISSION: To protect animals by providing shelter, promoting adoption and responsible pet ownership, and preventing animal overpopulation. www.hsgcpets.org

WHO THEY ARE: BY THE NUMBERS: HOW TO HELP: The Humane Society of Goodhue County The shelter can house 50 dogs and 50 cats “Financial support is the best way people is a 501(c) 3 non-profit agency dedicated at a time. Last year, 751 animals came to can help just because our needs change to the welfare of pets and domestic the Humane Society. Among those, 100 on a continual basis,” Ostendorf says. companion animals. “We take in all pets lost pets were returned to their owners The Humane Society also is conducting except for snakes and spiders,” says Anna and 402 animals (246 cats, 130 dog and a campaign to renovate kennels at its Ostendorf, executive director. “Mostly we 26 other animals) were adopted. Another 25-year-old.shelter. have dogs and cats.” But the Society also 55 were moved to other shelters. shelters tame birds and “pocket pets,” such Bob Freund is a writer based in Rochester. rabbits, guinea pigs and hamsters. FUNDING: Individual donations and adoption fees PASSION: are core sources. The Humane Society A WARM FEELING “The essence of it is just doing what we also has contracts with the City of Red Anna Ostendorf, executive director of can to protect animals within our area and Wing and Goodhue County to provide the Humane Society of Goodhue County advocate for them and for responsible pet animal control services and to take in for the past eight years, remembers ownership,” Ostendorf says. “When we stray animals. The organization adds one puppy that was malnourished and watch the transformation of an animal some revenue by offering pet boarding “probably about half the size of what that has had a … rough start (and goes) and grooming services to the public. he should have been” on arrival at the from that to becoming a beloved family Society’s shelter. The dog, a Boxer, had a member, that’s what makes it worth it.” IN ACTION: hard time even walking. But “He almost The Society’s largest single fundraiser is doubled his weight in the time he was STAFF/VOLUNTEERS: Bark in the Park, a combination of a pet here,” she says. By the time he was Nine staff members, including two full- festival and one-mile walk held in May. adopted, the dog had recovered and was time and seven part-time employees. Chip and Clip (implanting microchips playing like a normal pup. Seeing that (Two are certified veterinary technicians.) and clipping pet nails) also is a regular growth was her reward, Ostendorf says. Volunteers walk dogs, socialize cats and benefit held monthly at Chuck and Don’s “It’s nice to have that feeling that what assist with daily cleaning chores. pet food store in Red Wing. you did mattered.”

www.thewagazine.com | 9 | IN THE BUSINESS FISH TALE

Bryan Altendorf’s fascination with fish led to a peculiar profession, complete with a memorable nickname By Lena Hewitt | Photography by Kelvin Andow

10 | wagazine | spring 2016 HOOKED Soon, friends and family were Indeed, Altendorf was able to parlay enlisting Altendorf’s help with their his experience at Finny Critters into own aquarium maintenance, and another job a few years later at a he was happy to oblige. newly opened fish and aquarium “I take care of aquariums and store across the river in Minneapolis. fish because I love to,” he says. “It “I was going to college and is a lot of work, but I wouldn’t do needed a full-time job, so the anything else.” timing was perfect,” he says. “I Eventually, he had enough worked nights and weekends and clients to open his own aquarium- spent a lot of time around fish, cleaning business, servicing which I loved.” commercial locations in the Twin After college, pursued a position Cities, Rochester and western that more closely aligned with Wisconsin. his major—and was absolutely miserable. “I only lasted a couple AQUARIUM APPEAL weeks in that career field,” he says. What does cleaning a huge “I couldn’t stand it and went right aquarium entail? Turns out, it’s back to working with fish. quite an involved process. A couple years later, Altendorf “My team cleans aquariums received an offer he couldn’t weekly or biweekly, depending refuse when his friend started a on what the customer wants,” wholesale operation and asked Altendorf says. “The process him to join the team. includes cleaning the glass, stands and covers. We also check the aquarium’s electronics to make sure everything is working properly, and “I TAKE CARE OF AQUARIUMS AND FISH change the filter pads if necessary. BECAUSE I LOVE TO. IT IS A LOT OF WORK, We will also change out the water and check the health and wellbeing BUT I WOULDN’T DO ANYTHING ELSE.” of the fish to make sure they are - BRYAN ALTENDORF looking good.” After all, that’s part of the appeal of having an “I thought it was cool to work aquarium—healthy, happy fish to o you ever find yourself sitting in the in a pet store that had 30 to 40 watch. Altendorf’s team will also waiting room at the dentist’s office, aquariums in it, but now I was replace bulbs, plants and rocks staring at the ubiquitous aquarium, taking care of more than 300,” to ensure a properly maintained, Dand wondering, “Gee, how do they he says. attractive environment. clean that thing?” Chances are, they call Bryan Altendorf. Altendorf, aka “Bry the Fish Guy,” got his start in the commercial fish-tank cleaning business more than three decades ago when he wandered into a little pet shop in St. Paul called Finny Critters. “I’d always had aquariums in my room as a kid, and I loved going to the shop and learning about all the different kinds of fish,” he says. “When I turned 14, they gave me a job taking care of the fish room, and I’ve been hooked ever since.” The cleaning process includes checking the aquarium’s electronics and filter pads, changing the water, and checking the wellbeing of the fish.

www.thewagazine.com | 11 FIN MAIL up for customers,” Altendorf says. Although the core process hasn’t “It’s very exciting.” changed a lot over Altendorf’s He likes the relaxing nature 30-year career, there have been of the jellyfish, and notes that advancements in tank technology. the aquariums are round and flat “Aquariums have gone high- and don’t take up much room. tech, and with that is a whole new Furthermore, they can be lit with approach to taking care of them,” different colored lights to facilitate he says. “Some of my customers’ mood therapy. tanks are monitored by computers “Moon jellyfish are the most that email me notifications if there common variety we are using, are any problems with temperature, but there are others that are just pH balance, etcetra.” as cool.” There are also a slew of filters on Altendorf also has an affinity for the market, including undergravel African Cichlids. “They are really varieties, canister filters and sand good at taking care of their own, filters. “All these available choices meaning if you ensure a healthy means that tanks can be full and the environment, they will have babies fish are healthy, which is what our and repopulate the tank,” he says. clients want,” he says. “Plus, they are so bright and colorful and have cool personalities.” NOW TRENDING: Spoken like a true a-fish-ianado. JELLYFISH TANKS So what’s in his dream tank? “Jel- Lena Hewitt is an editor and writer who, lyfish tanks are a new and interesting at age 9, had a pair of goldfish named Sid aquarium that I have been starting and Nancy.

“Jellyfish tanks are a new an interesting aquarium that I have been starting up for customers,” says Altendorf.

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www.thewagazine.com | 13 | TRAINING NUISANCE BARKING

Proactive steps can reduce neighbor feuds, code violations By Jennifer Gangloff

pring is starting, and as Rochester NOISY NEIGHBOR DOGS “In the letter they sent to us, they said they felt area residents hunger for warmth Emily* and her husband are among those frus- they were being nice,” Paula said. “I don’t find and a fresh beginning, open windows trated with a neighbor’s barking dogs and have threatening to call Animal Control in the letter Susher in the sounds of the emerging tried several times to resolve the problem. “It sent anonymously to be nice at all, especially season—the whistle of cardinals, the chorus would be impossible for the owners to not be without making any effort to discuss the issue of frogs awakening from hibernation, the aware of the extent that their dogs are barking,” face to face. We have our dog for special reasons. gobble of turkeys bidding for courtships, Emily said. “They don’t ever really respond to For those same reasons, there are times that we and—wait, what’s that sound? the barking or acknowledge that it’s an issue must put him outside for a bit.” Oh, yes, it’s the sound of the incessant and nuisance to their fellow neighbors.” Emily and her husband did just that—they barking of the neighbor’s dog. A differ- One of the biggest problems with the neighbor’s spoke with their neighbors face to face several ent sign of spring, a rather loud, jarring, barking dogs, Emily said, is that the dogs are often times, but to no avail, she said, leaving them to unwelcome sign of spring. Oh, the noise! loudest before dawn or late at night. “We have consider sending an anonymous letter as well, While the Grinch may have snarled at the small children who have woken up due to the perhaps signed by other neighbors, too. noise of the obliviously joyful Whos during loud, continuous barking despite having sound Since receiving the complaint letter, Paula’s the Christmas season, residents around machines in their bedrooms,” she said. family has taken steps to control the barking, Southeast Minnesota may be snarling as the Across town, Paula and her family received although their sons may not be as diligent when warmer weather heralds the arrival of dog an anonymous written complaint in the mail they’re in charge of the dog, she acknowledged. barking season. with a threat to contact Animal Control “If our dog is outside and barks continuously, Nuisance barking can leave neighbor pitted about their barking dog, an older Miniature we bring him in,” she said. against neighbor, and if the situation is severe Schnauzer. enough, the Rochester Animal Control unit Until they received the complaint, Paula said BARKING AWAY BUYERS has the authority to seize a barking dog. that they weren’t aware that some neighbors Barking dogs can do more than create feuding Fortunately, homeowners can take steps to considered their dog a nuisance barker. Her neighbors. Real estate agent Lori Mickelson control their barking dogs and potentially family was dismayed that the neighbor didn’t of Re/Max Results says that barking dogs can restore riffs with fed-up neighbors. speak to them directly, she said. actually derail a home sale.

14 | wagazine | spring 2016 “Sometimes there’s a neighbor’s dog, or two or The city does allow Animal Control to busy, such as giving them toys stuffed with their three dogs, and the potential buyer steps outside seize a barking dog in certain situations and dog food or hiding treats to promote sniffing and sees the dogs barking nonstop,” she said. house it at the city-run animal shelter until games, can greatly reduce the barking. Along “They may love the house but tell us the dogs the owner claims it. Dogs that aren’t claimed those same lines, a dog who barks because she’s would drive them crazy, so they pass on it.” can be euthanized or adopted out. It’s not lonely will often stop barking completely if she’s In one case, Mickelson said, a frustrated clear how widespread the problem of nuisance brought inside with her family.” home seller in Mantorville installed an anti- barking is, because the city doesn’t specifically One client Reusche worked with was on the barking device on her property and pointed track animal complaints by type, such as verge of getting kicked out of her apartment it at the neighbor’s dogs. City officials got barking, Crowson said. because of complaints that her hound mix dog involved and told the seller to remove the “We try to do a lot of education when was barking excessively. device, and the home seller was ultimately there are complaints because most of them “By increasing her dog’s exercise, giving the forced to lower her selling price. are unfounded barking,” she said. “Normally young dog lots of ‘jobs’ to do around “I haven’t found the right solution yet, and the problem is fixed, but some do fill out the the house, and teaching her when it was okay you don’t want to mask the problem and try citizen complaint report.” to bark, her owner was able to keep her apart- to hide it from potential buyers,” Mickelson ment,” Reusche said. “I know a lot of dogs who said. “They key is getting the dog owner to TAKING RESPONSIBILITY are surrendered to rescues and shelters because realize it’s a problem.” Some dog owners, like Rhonda, take proactive their voices are too big for their owners’ homes, measures to reduce nuisance barking. Rhonda and I’d like people to know that there are many CITY ORDINANCE has three small, older dogs. Daisy, a Min-Pin resources available to help them keep their dog. In some cases, a dog’s bark isn’t as bad as it mix, is sometimes a relentless barker, she said, Don’t be afraid to reach out if your dog is a sounds, at least legally. and is often triggered into barking loudly and barker. There are many qualified dog trainers Rochester city ordinance 106A.10 outlines aggressively by her neighbor’s dogs. out there who can make a big difference.” what constitutes a nuisance barker, stating in “Barking is normal dog behavior to some For Emily and her husband, simply part that it’s “unlawful if any dog barks, whines, degree,” Rhonda said. “If I walk past someone’s acknowledging that a dog is a nuisance barker howls, bays, cries or makes other noise exces- house or yard and their dog barks at me, is a good first step. “We would appreciate if the sively so as to cause annoyance, disturbance it seems appropriate. They’re saying, ‘Hey, owners would acknowledge the barking and or discomfort to any individual provided that stranger alert!’ If a dog is barking nonstop promptly respond by letting their dogs in,” she such noise lasts for a period of more than five for no obvious reason, I don’t think that’s said. “I understand that it isn’t possible to avoid minutes continuously or intermittent barking OK, though I feel bad for them. For chronic the barking, but if the owners would at least that continues for more than one hour and is barkers, including my own, I tend to blame the respond to the dogs and put forth efforts to plainly audible outside the property limits of owner rather than the dog. They’re either bored curtail the barking, that would be appreciated. where the dog is kept.” or need better training.” … The owners really should be more proactive The city does allow some exceptions, such as Rhonda doesn’t want her dogs barking exces- and considerate of who may be affected by dogs that bark when harassed or when someone sively any more than her neighbors do. “I’m very them leaving their dogs out.” is trespassing on the owner’s property. bothered by Daisy’s barking, especially outdoors,” she said. “I don’t want to be a bad neighbor.” * Some names have been changed to help preserve ANIMAL CONTROL’S ROLE neighbor relationships. In Rochester, formal complaints about barking MINIMIZING BARKING dogs are handled by Animal Control. Animal Certified Professional Dog Trainer Sara Reusche Jennifer Gangloff is a Control Officer Erica Crowson said that when of Paws Abilities Dog Training in Rochester says freelancer editor a complaint is received about a barking dog, that one of the most common reasons she’s ap- and writer in officers will respond and park a house or two proached for help is barking. Although it’s diffi- Rochester. away and listen for a while to determine if cult to stop barking entirely, it can be minimized, there’s a violation. she said. “If there is no violation, we will attempt to “Our make contact with the dog owner and inform goal them there was a complaint,” she said. “If is to the dog is in violation, it is up to the officer’s channel discretion if a warning or citation will be issued. bark- If we continuously get complaints and there ing into is no founded violation, the complainant has appropriate the right to fill out a citizen complaint report channels, as well where they document when the dog is barking as teaching the dog and submit the report. The report will be when she should be quiet,” reviewed, and if enough evidence has been Reusche said. “Managing your found, the officer may issue a citation based on dog responsibly is very important here, the complainant’s statements. The complainant too. Many dogs bark because they’re bored, would need to appear in court as the witness.” so providing them with activities to keep them

www.thewagazine.com | 15 | PET PRODUCTS PET PRODUCT SHOWCASE

Rudy puts the Kong Bounzer to the test. Dog-Tested: Kong “Bounzer”

Tester: Buzz Tester: Cash Tester: Rudy Labrador, age 2, 53 lbs. (a.k.a. “The Destroyer”) Springer Spaniel, age 5, 39 lbs. Bounzer size: XL Beagle, age 6, 30 lbs. Bounzer size: Large Buzz positively loves the Bounzer. Bounzer size: Large Rudy loves how the Bounzer His owners put it away after Cash loves the Bounzer when bounces in unpredictable direc- playtime because he is relent- he remembers it is there; he tions. He likes to chomp on it less in trying to get someone to doesn’t tend to get obsessed to see if it will squeak, but it has toss it for him. He grabs hold at with any toy. He has been unable held up very well. Rudy also has the fat end of the toy and totes it to destroy it, which is saying a lot a size-large Bounzer but seems around, occasionally shaking his for him. He uses the handle to to like the medium size better head like he’s a mad man. run around and shake it. He likes as it’s easier for him to manage. He doesn’t self-play by to bite at all of it, but it’s very du- Great toy for the winter because it tossing but looks to his rable: only a few tooth scratches doesn’t get lost in the snow, and people to throw it for and no holes. Cash’s mom likes doesn’t become hard as a rock him, after which he that is it soft and doesn’t damage even in the coldest of weather. pounces. All in anything in the house. Cash is The handle makes it easy to carry all, he’s smitten. owned by Sue, Dave, Leah, Kate and easy for his people to throw Buzz is owned and Charlie Seykora it. By far the favorite outside toy by Dan and at the house. Rudy is owned by Sheree Estes Ann and Todd Indykiewicz Photo by Joe Ferguson. Joe by Photo

16 | wagazine | spring 2016 Dirty Dog Doormat Microfiber strands trap water, mud and dirt. Soaks up to 7 times its weight in mud and water. Machine washable. Leashes & Leads, Rochester www.leashesandleads.com

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Ruffwear Headwater Leash Waterproof, stink-proof, reflective. EspañaSILK Pet Shampoo and Grooming Products Ruffwear Roamer Leash All-natural grooming products used Hand-held or waist-worn, at In The Dog House grooming Wavelength™ webbing allows salon and sold in the store. Made in dogs to roam Plymouth, Minn. Safe for pets and humans. In the Dog House, Northfield TerraLoco, Rochester www.inthedoghousemn.com www.runterraloco.com Product photos by Kelvin Andow Photography. Andow Kelvin photos by Product

www.thewagazine.com | 17 | COVER

18 | wagazine | spring 2016 JOINT VENTURE Dog gains elbow room with stem cell therapy

By C. G. Worrell | Photography by Kelvin Andow

n 2010, Joe Ferguson surprised Dr. Garren Kelly at Meadow View The Fergusons consulted with Dr. Kelly his wife, Kim, with a handsome Veterinary Clinic in Byron. “A physical again. Bodhi hadn’t responded to conserva- Gordon Setter puppy that he won exam and X-rays confirmed the diagnosis: tive therapy, and invasive joint surgery Iat a pheasant club banquet. Naming Bodhi had dysplasia … in both elbows.” offered a success rate of less than 60 percent. him Bodhi, they welcomed him to their Faced with such mediocre odds, Dr. tree-covered farm in Mantorville to live A CRIPPLING DISEASE Kelly raised the option of stem cell with two Brittany Spaniels, an orange Elbow dysplasia is a complex orthopedic therapy. For several years, he had used the tabby and one loud Amazon parrot. disorder identified in at least 78 dog technique successfully to treat arthritic For three years, Bodhi enjoyed an idyllic breeds. It results in cartilage defects and conditions of the elbow, hip and knee. life … until a joint disorder put his misalignment of the bones forming the “All my canine patients who under- future on hold. elbow joint. went stem cell therapy exhibited some While many dysplastic dogs remain degree of improvement from mild to THE RED FLAG symptom free, severe cases like Bodhi’s marked,” Kelly says. “I felt Bodhi was an From the start, Bodhi was a wild child develop debilitating pain and lameness, excellent candidate for the procedure.” with boundless energy. By age one, he especially since dogs bear 60 percent of On the upside, Bodhi’s elbows were ran three miles a day with Kim, hunted their weight in the forelimbs. Conservative not yet grossly deformed by arthritis, he with Joe and spent the rest of his time medical therapy offered Bodhi a 50 was still young and in good shape. The frolicking with his dog-pal Willie. percent shot at long-term recovery. downside was cost; harvesting stem cells “Those two were partners in crime,” “For several months we tried managing from a dog and re-injecting them into says Joe. “They’d stalk squirrels from his pain with rest, joint supplements and problem joints runs upwards of $1,800. either side of the house and charge them anti-inflammatory meds,” says Joe, “but “We had to do something,” Kim at the backyard bird feeder.” the limp just grew worse. It reached the insists, “and this option seemed less Most days the squirrels got away; point where his quality of life was terrible.” invasive and more promising.” occasionally they didn’t. “It broke my heart,” says Kim. After Bodhi turned three, Kim noticed “He couldn’t jog or fetch tennis balls CELLULAR MAGIC him limping during their morning jogs. anymore. The poor guy spent most The media touts stem cells as the “When he couldn’t keep up with Willie of his day on the sidelines, hobbling future cure for many ills. So what makes and me, I took it as a huge red flag,” around like a sad, old man while Willie these mysterious microscopic entities recalls Kim who took Bodhi to chased squirrels alone.” so special?

www.thewagazine.com | 19 “Think of them like the stem of a tree,” says, “but Bodhi was so lean, I had to take it “Katie was so patient and helpful,” says explains Dr. Nathan Staff, a Mayo Clinic from his abdomen.” Kim. “She trained me as much as she did physician who specializes in stem cell research. The minimally invasive surgery paid Bodhi. We gradually incorporated her “They can multiply and branch into any off; the fat sample yielded abundant stem exercises into our daily routine: swimming, number of tissues based upon the chemical cell concentrate. Dr. Kelly injected each of climbing hills, slogging through rough signals they receive.” Bodhi’s elbow joints with the recommended terrain—anything to strengthen his legs.” Mature animals (including humans) still dose and sent the remainder to a medical “Kim poured lots of energy into Bodhi’s have stem cells. Even though they have cryobank for apportioning and storage. Since recovery,” says Joe, casting an affectionate branched far beyond the initial embryonic the positive effects of a single stem cell treat- glance at his wife. “They even danced the stage, they still have the potential to form ment generally last one to three years, stored doggie tango each day—although I can’t say certain tissues. For example, most stem vials are a convenient and economical way to that was his favorite.” cells housed in bone marrow are destined repeat injections, if needed. to become the various lines of blood cells. FLASH FORWARD Stem cells stored in fat usually form cartilage, SHALL WE DANCE? Kim’s investment of time yielded handsome connective tissue and more fat. Within weeks, Kim and Joe noted that Bodhi’s dividends. Within six months, Bodhi was “When stem cells are injected into a dis- limp had improved. Even so, they took things back to running with Mom, hunting with tressed joint, the hope is that they will form slowly while his abdominal incision healed. Dad and harassing the backyard squirrels healthy tissue,” says Dr. Staff, “but the truth At the six-week mark, Kim brought him back with Willie. Today—18 months later—he is we don’t know exactly how they react or to Meadow View Veterinary Clinic to begin shows no signs of stopping. even how long they live. What we do know is formal weekly rehab. “I’m thrilled that stem cell therapy was an this: they modulate the immune response and There Bodhi worked with Katie Nosbisch, option for Bodhi,” says Kim. “And we have in some cases have been shown to drastically a certified Canine Rehabilitation Practitioner. plenty of extra vials … just in case.” reduce inflammation.” She implemented a stepwise program of muscle To capitalize on this phenomenon, Dr. Kelly massage, passive range of motion exercises and C. G. Worrell is a freelance writer and part- needed to collect stem cells from Bodhi’s fat. activities designed to strengthen his limbs. She time veterinarian at Heritage Pet Hospital. “Usually I harvest them from an easy-to- also prescribed regular stints in the underwater reach fat pad in the dog’s shoulder region,” he treadmill to boost his conditioning.

After his surgery, Bodhi entered weekly rehab, using the underwater treadmill and activities designed to strengthen his limbs. Here, he works with Anne Miller.

To view before-and-after videos of Bodhi’s condition, visit: https://www.facebook.com/joe.ferguson.319/videos/10207604697491460/

20 | wagazine | spring 2016 Turn Crest Stable One of the most active lesson and show barns in the area

SARY - OPEN BARN IVER elcom R ANN m • Everyone W e! 35 YEA 11am - 3p June 11 • SUMMER EVENTS: LESSONS OFFERED YEAR ROUND JUNE 12: WWHSA Hunter Horse Show Riding lessons are given to riders 7 and up. Adult lessons and Jumping lessons use lesson horses. JUNE 13 -16: Jumping Camp Lessons are offered in Western, Hunt Seat and Jumping. JUNE 20-23: Little Riders Camp 5-7 yr. olds JULY 11-14: Summer Day Camp 8 yr. & older 507-634-4474 JULY 25-27: 3 Day Eventing Camp 26947 Co. Hwy 34, Kasson, MN (10 miles west of Rochester on Hwy. 14) AUGUST 8-11: Summer Day Camp 8 yr. & older Check our web site for more information and forms • www.turncreststable.com AUGUST 14: WWHSA Hunter Horse Show

Now Offering st Adult Stem Cell 1 EXAM Treatments FREE To help with osteo-arthritis, STEM CELL ligament and tendon TREATMENT injuries and other chronic FREE CONSULT New clients only. inflammatory diseases. One coupon per household. No cash value. One coupon per household. No cash value. Veterinary Clinic, LLC Coupons can be combined. Offer expires 5/31/16 Coupons can be combined. Offer expires 5/31/16 6214 14th Street NW Byron Convenient Scheduling Times... Open Days, Our UNDERWATER TREADMILL Located in Evenings & Saturdays! is great for dogs who can’t get the exercise they need due to being overweight, recovering from surgery, illness or injury. Let your dog try it today! 10% OFF Complete health care services for your pet: Underwater Treadmill • Wellness Exams • Surgical Procedures Conditioning Package • Preventative Care • In-House Laboratory New clients only. • Digital Radiography • Canine Rehabilitation One coupon per household. No cash value. Coupons can be combined. Offer expires 5/31/16 • Dental Care and Conditioning

www.meadowviewvetmn.com Call Today for an Appointment 507.424.2120 Know anyone that got a new puppy or kitty recently? Remember to send them to Meadow View Veterinary Clinic and tell them to let us know you referred them. We offer a $10 credit on your account and $10 to spend at Leashes and leads.

www.thewagazine.com | 21 YES, WE MAKE HOUSE CALLS.

Riverwood Veterinary Housecalls... Excellent medicine and Compassionate Care, all delivered in the comfortable VETERINARIAN surroundings of your home. ALWAYS ON DUTY We offer services for all ages of dogs and cats. Rochester Clinic 507-424-3976 121 23rd Ave SW Rochester, MN 55902 Kathleen Appell, DVM [email protected] HOURS: 6pm-8am Monday-Thursday 507.458.5466 5pm Friday-8am Monday • Open all major holidays riverwoodvet.com

Quarry Hill Park Animal Hospital Quality personal care for your Animal! Serving Rochester since 1978

Dan Nietz, DVM

Small animal medicine and surgery Ann Anderson, DVM Tom Radke, DVM Karen Lee, DVM Caroline Baihly, DVM

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507-285-1059 www.quarryhillvet.com 828 11th Ave NE, Rochester, MN 55906 1412 Northstar Drive | Zumbrota, MN 55992 Monday/Wednesday/Friday: 7:30 am - 5:00 pm 507- 732-7301 Tuesday: 7:30 am - 5:30 pm Thursday: 7:30 am - 6:30 pm www.zumbrotavet.com Saturday - Sunday: Closed

22 | wagazine | spring 2016 VET CHECK | What the Veterinarian WANTS YOU TO KNOW Eight vets offer their top-priority pet pointers By KL Snyder

THE WAGAZINE ASKED EIGHT VETERINARIANS, “If you could tell your clients one thing, what would it be?” And the vets replied:

DR. BRAD TREDER, Northern Valley Animal Clinic, Rochester

Treder covered four basics and just for fun matched them DR. KATE BRAKEFIELD, DR. MARK WENNER, DR. ANN ANDERSON, to celebrities who would Cannon Valley Vet, Cascade Animal Hospital, Quarry Hill Park Animal surely agree. Northfield Rochester Hospital, Rochester

• Spay or neuter your pet. It Brakefield highlighted the Wenner likewise stressed “Can animals get fleas in the helps to control pet population, value of preventative care. prevention. “Baseline blood winter?” clients ask Anderson. avoid unwanted behaviors and testing, dental, vaccines—all “Yes, they can,” she replies, and prevent serious medical issues. “We see so many things that prevent other disease she advocates year-round flea Bob Barker concurs. could have been prevented, or processes from happening.” prevention. • Provide strong leadership, a illnesses we could do more for, “Fleas are out there,” she said. la Cesar Milan. Train your pet to if we had just seen the animal Too often by the time the vet “They’re like Asian beetles— be socially well-adjusted. sooner or on a regular basis,” sees a pet with dental disorders, tough.” Fleas can survive months • Control your pet’s weight. she said. “Vaccinations, routine it’s had a problem for some time. without eating. If they should The svelte are less subject to blood screening and aspiration/ Bacteria from tooth and gum sneak into a cabin closed for the summertime overheating, joint sampling of lumps and bumps infections can get into the blood winter, “they’ll be there to greet and mobility problems, diabetes, are some of the preventative care stream and inflict further harm. you in the spring.” liver disease and a shortened life measures that top my list. “Dogs and cats with periodontal They’ll be there to greet you span. Marie Osmond approves. “Obviously, routine wellness disease have a much higher anywhere. “If you go to the dog • Keep your pet’s teeth clean. exams and bloodwork become risk of heart, kidney and liver park or groomer or daycare, Dental chews, daily brushing even more important as an disease,” Wenner said. “It’s a fleas could be there.” Wild and professional cleanings as animal ages, just like with big deal.” animals such as squirrels, rabbits needed keep pets’ teeth healthy, people!” Pest control matters, too. and raccoons don’t object to and good dental hygiene sup- A monthly dose of heartworm sharing their flea supply. “So,” ports allover health—as preventative also stops round, said Anderson, “continue flea five out of five veterinary whip, tape and hook worms. prevention.” dentists will attest. Flea and tick protection deters Lyme disease and anaplasmosis.

www.thewagazine.com | 23 DR. TRAVIS DR. DENISE HODGE, DR. DARLENE COOK, DR. KATHLEEN EINERTSON, Heritage Affiliated Emergency The Bluffs Pet Clinic, APPELL, Riverwood Pet Hospital, Rochester Veterinary Service, Red Wing Veterinary Housecalls, Rochester Rochester “Feed a species-appropriate “I’m an avid supporter of diet,” Einertson said. Hodge covered climate pet insurance,” Cook said. “If there was one thing I’d extremes. She tells new clients, “Pet like to tell my clients, it’s Research has determined insurance is wonderful.” THANK YOU! what’s best for cats. They’re “Seasonal temperature changes carnivores whose ideal diet is affect pets. The heat of summer She knows whereof she “Every day I’m amazed at the high protein, moderate fat, is not well tolerated and can lead advocates. Her pets’ policies beauty of the bond between pets very low carbohydrate. The to heat stress, or to heat stroke have saved her thousands of and their families. I’m honored protein should be animal-based. which can be life-threatening.” dollars—more than $13,500 last to be a part of that, to be able Einertson suggests canned cat Whenever pets are outdoors in year for cancer treatments for her to care for their best friends. I food such Friskies Classic Paté the heat, they need fresh water Golden Retriever. see pet owners on a daily basis (his cat’s favorite) or Fancy Feast. and shade. That’s imperative, “Pet insurance takes money who are doing all they can to Dogs’ nutritional needs she said, “and exercise should be out the equation of what can I make their pets’ lives healthy and are less clear. Canned seems kept to a minimum.” do for my pet?” she said. “An happy. healthier (and is costlier), but Take measures in winter, too. amount such as $1,800 to “I’ve watched the tenderness because dogs are omnivores, “The extreme cold temperatures $12,000 for surgery can be a and devotion when their pets are kibble might be all right—if it’s of winter are as dangerous and deal breaker, but with insurance seriously ill, and the joy of a new grain free with animal-based uncomfortable for pets as they you don’t even have to think pet brought into their lives. protein and no vegetable oil. are for people.” During Arctic about it.” “So the one thing I’d like to “When you’re choosing dog outbreaks, pets should stay in- Based on research of 13 pet say is THANK YOU!” food,” Einertson said, “remem- doors as much as possible. “Pets insurers, she endorses two: ber that when dogs chase, their are as susceptible to frostbite and Petplan and Trupanion. Freelance writer KL Snyder is prey isn’t the grains in the field.” hypothermia as we are.” happy to brush her dogs’ teeth every day—and happy, too, that she doesn’t have to floss them.

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24 | wagazine | spring 2016 Visit us at www.northernvalleyvet.com 507-282-0867

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www.thewagazine.com | 25 | ON THE JOB

A FAMILY WHO TRAINS TOGETHER Raising Exceptional Dogs for Exceptional People By Ann M. Noser

erhaps you’ve heard the slogan “A Dog is For Life, Not Just For Christmas.” Well, not in the Stern household. Since 1994, they have raised and trained 22 service dogs for Canine PCompanions for Independence (CCI). The 8- to 10-week-old pups arrive at the beginning of a 15- to 18-month transformation from adorable puppy to responsible young adult well on their way to providing assistance to people with dis- abilities. The dogs allow their people-partners more independence and a better quality of life. These Labrador, Golden Retriever or Lab-Golden crosses are privately bred at the California CCI facility selecting for appropriate temperament and size. Expectant mothers are whelped in caretaker homes so the puppies can be born in the best possible environment.

TRAINING DOGS TEACHES CHILDREN The Stern family spends their days and nights potty training, impec- cably leash training and teaching over 40 separate one-word commands. Service dogs learn “up” to use their front two feet to turn on and off light switches, press elevator buttons or receive money or purchases from a business counter. They learn “jump” to use all four feet to access Sometimes goodbye isn’t forever. Most service dogs work an average an elevated surface to retrieve a wanted item for their owner. Training a of eight years before retiring to spend their golden years as a cherished service dog is a 24/7 job that only ends when they say good-bye to the pet. One of the Stern family’s most memorable service dogs, a black dog that has become so much a part of their family. Golden-Lab named J.J., returned to their home after assisting a How can the Stern family bear the heartbreak of “losing” one dog woman with brittle bone disease for eight years. He spent both his after another? It’s not easy, but the emotional rewards are worth it. puppyhood and his last days with the Stern family after his retirement “Now that I’m a parent, the most rewarding part of raising service from the CCI program. dogs is watching my kids welcome the responsibilities of training the What inspires a person to dedicate so much time to the CCI puppies,” says Amy. program? Amy Stern reports it was all due to an adorable CCI/Hill’s Training service dogs teaches her children how to practice self- Science Diet dog calendar she spotted at Collin’s Feed & Seed over a sacrifice, do good for others, and to let go when it is the right thing to decade ago. She loved that calendar, read all about CCI, and spent a do. The CCI program has given her kids a deep appreciation for those year nagging her parents before convincing them to allow her to bring with disabilities. home a service dog to train. courtesyPhotos of Amy Stern.

26 | wagazine | spring 2016 SERVICE WITH A PURPOSE actually graduate. Reasons vary from wariness on slippery floors to Canine Companions for Independence is a national organization that difficulties turning on and off lights. trains service dogs for many purposes. Before turn-in, Amy attempts to reserve a good home for each pup The CCI center in California works with the VA hospital to assist if he doesn’t graduate. These dogs are excellent family pets already veterans with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). CCI locations on housebroken, well socialized, and trained beyond the level of the average both coasts raise service dogs for the hearing impaired. family pet. The Midwest location, based in Ohio, trains facility and service dogs. Facility dogs work at rehabilitation centers, grief counseling facilities, RECIPIENT PROCESS and in courtrooms to calm stressed children who have to testify during The process for a recipient to receive a service dog is also lengthy, strenu- trials. These dogs only have access to the specific buildings they work in. ous and time-consuming because CCI needs to make the best matches to Alternatively, service dogs provide specific services to their owners who provide the best results.

Opposite page: Amy and Jeremy Stern and their children, Ethan, Kaitlyn and Olivia with Adler, their dog-in-training. Above, left to right: Two of the Sterns’ dogs- in-training: Adler and Hamilton. Kaitlyn Stern competes in Irish dancing, and Hamilton traveled with the family to competitions and performances. Part of training includes teaching the dogs to travel under an airplane seat. Hamilton practices at the Twin Cities airport.

have physical or developmental disabilities, wear the familiar pack and The recipient first completes an online application request. Four to have public access to all buildings. six weeks later, they receive and complete the application. Three weeks The Stern family teaches a puppy commands and actions, gets it later, they conduct a telephone interview. Two weeks after that, their comfortable walking on slippery store floors, and used to the noise and doctors and therapists submit the medical and professional forms. Three confusion of public life. months later is the personal interview with CCI. Two to four weeks after When the puppy is returned to CCI, he undergoes further training for the personal interview, a selection review lets them know if they’ve been the next six months to retrieve and deliver dropped items, tug and push accepted for the waitlist. The recipient then waits one to two years for on command, turn lights on and off, and pull lightweight wheelchairs. an official invite for team training at the CCI facility, first working with Service dogs usually graduate at around two years of age, but due to three dogs at a time, with the intention of narrowing down the selection Photos courtesyPhotos of Amy Stern. CCI’s high standards, less than 40 percent of the dogs in the program to one dog.

www.thewagazine.com | 27 OVERCOMING OBSTACLES But not everything about service dogs is rosy. Because many people buy fake service-dog packs online to cheat their way into the public realm without proper training, Amy and her family have encountered decreasing acceptance of real service dogs. The general public can’t tell which ones are the real service dogs, so all are treated with less understanding. In Rochester, Amy’s family has had two episodes of troubles with restaurants treating them rudely when they were training their puppies. This hurts both the trainers and the disabled. Ethan, Kaitlyn and Amy Sterns at the CCI regional training center in Delaware, Ohio. They are turning in Rock, one of the dogs they raised and But the Sterns won’t let these difficulties stand in their way of raising trained, for further testing for work as a service dog. service dogs to help the disabled gain more independence and a better quality of life. Due to the sacrifices of the puppy-raising families and the fundraising done by CCI, the service dogs are provided free of charge to the recipi- Dr. Ann Anderson works as a small-animal veterinarian at Quarry Hill ents. “That’s really important to me, and one of the many reasons why I Park Animal Hospital by day, and a writer (under her married name Ann M. chose to work with CCI,” says Amy. Noser) by night.

Shawn Buryska ABR, CRS, GRI [email protected] 507-254-7425 mobile 507-288-1234 office 507-252-6745 direct BURNET www.ShawnBuryska.com

28 | wagazine | spring 2016 BOOK REVIEW |

“Earnest” by Kristin von Kreisler, c.2016, Kensington, $15 / $16.95 Canada, 256 pages

dog, it was forever. But, as in this a success at his architectural firm. to it all, she would be heartbroken. new book, could the same be said Life was good. But she was more than just that. for your human? Jeff didn’t know how he was She was livid. The minute Anna stepped into going to tell Anna about his work Jeff moved out of their condo. Second Chance Shelter, she knew project. Anna filed for custody of Earnest. that she and her boyfriend, Jeff, He hadn’t asked for it; Cedar Jeff countered with a mediator. weren’t going home alone. Jeff Place was handed to him, and its Anna started fighting for her only wanted to “look” at the dogs, completion would totally set his beloved house. but when they met Earnest, well, career. When it was done, it would There was no way they could that was that. He was a gorgeous be a jewel in the neighborhood, a ever continue their relationship. 3-year-old Yellow Lab and on that place for community and retail, But Earnest—and life—had other The day you met your dog, it was day, they became a family of three. museums and families, something ideas. love at first sight. That made Anna enormously Jeff could be proud of. He’d There are two basic things you Those big brown eyes, that happy. Earnest was a sweetheart thought through every single facet should know about “Earnest.” It’s silky-sheened fur, butt-wiggles, and she loved taking him to of it. good, but it’s too long. even puppy breath was hard to work at her Seattle-area floral Except for one thing: the Keep that in mind, and if you’re resist. You couldn’t decide who shop, set in a Victorian mansion, project involved the demolition of willing to endure it for the sake of picked whom, and it didn’t Plant Parenthood. Business was the Victorian mansion that Anna an otherwise good boy-meets-girl- matter: on the day you met your humming, and Jeff was becoming loved. Though he had a solution meets-dog romance, you’ll be fine.

“Pet Friendly” by Sue Pethick, c.2015, Kensington, $15 / $16.95 Canada, 224 pages

like a good pup. But as it turned grounds there, from an old crush in this book: we know who’s out, Archie’s nickname was named Todd. romancing whom and who’s unfortunately appropriate: he When a bedraggled dog “haunting” the Inn because it’s all escaped from Todd’s house on showed up at Emma’s cabin, quite transparent. We see what’s the first night, after he ate Todd followed by a familiar face from going to happen long before it and his fiancée Gwen’s dinner. the past, Emma mistakenly does. When she insisted that Archie figured Todd was homeless. Todd, And yet that makes the tale one had to go, the dog escaped from who’d recently sold a successful of those easy-to-read, don’t-have- Todd’s truck on the road his business, couldn’t believe Spirit to-think-much novels that you sister’s house… Inn was up and running after all reach for when you don’t want Emma Carlisle absolutely those years and that Emma was something too involved. Meeting your future roommate could not figure out how Spirit still there, but he slowly came at a funeral isn’t exactly ideal, but Inn was losing money. to understand that there was The Bookworm is Terri Todd Dwyer didn’t have much Her grandmother, from whom trouble: rumors claimed that the Schlichenmeyer. Terri has been choice: his late Uncle Bertie’s Emma had inherited the old old hotel was haunted. Could a reading since she was 3 years dog, Archie, was attending hotel, had no problem making ghost be stealing money from old and she never goes anywhere the services, then Archie was a living. She taught Emma Emma’s business? without a book. She lives on a hill supposed to go directly home everything about running an inn, I’m not always a person of few in Wisconsin with one pampered with Todd afterward. but the place was still leaking words, but here’s one: okay. That’s pooch and 13,000 books. Todd had always wanted a cash. Emma had too many good “Pet Friendly.” It’s predictable dog—even one nicknamed childhood memories to let it go. but amusing. Cute but trite. “Houdini”—and Archie seemed She’d had her first kiss on the There’s nothing mysterious

www.thewagazine.com | 29 N SE for NEWS...

PAWS AND CLAWS PET WALK Saturday, May 7, 9 a.m. Registration, 10 a.m. walk, 11 a.m. prizes Paws and Claws shelter, 3224 19th Street NW, Rochester Kick off Be Kind to Animals Week by walking at the 22nd Annual Paws & Claws Humane Society Pet Walk! Bring your 4-legged friends for fun in the sun. Come for free food and beverages, grab samples from vendors and meet the shelter animals. The morning includes temporary tattoos, balloon animals, t-shirts, pet bandanas, pet-related merchandise and baked goods. Meet celebrity K-9s and bring as many pledges as you can to win the grand prize in your age group!

SOMETHING TO PURR ABOUT The Tri-County Humane Society in St. Cloud has the corner on cat comfort. “If you visit our cat room, you will notice a lot more purring and happier kitties these days, thanks to a grant from the ASPCA, which allowed us to purchase 13 cat portals,” said Marit Ortega, manager of fund development. “The portals combine two cages into one, giving our feline friends twice as much space. With the help of volunteers who installed them, these portals came at no cost … but their value is immeasurable.” The orange labels are kennel sponsor plaques, in memory or in honor if people or pets. The annual sponsorship offers individuals or businesses the chance to publicly display their commitment to animal welfare. Small plaques as seen in the cat room are $300, and large plaques in the dog kennel rooms are $500. www.tricountyhumanesociety.org

DINNER AND AUCTION FOR THE ANIMALS Prairie’s Edge Humane Society (PEHS) will hold its annual fundraiser dinner and auction on April 16 in Northfield. GROUNDS FOR HOUNDS The speaker is Sandie Adams-Bruin of Minnesota Canine Search, “EVERY POUND SAVES A HOUND” Rescue & Tracking. Sandie will be accompanied by her partner, Bleu, Grounds & Hounds Coffee Co. (groundsandhoundscoffee.com) a Bloodhound who is nationally accredited through the American sells fair trade organic, whole bean coffee to support no-kill rescue Mantrailing Police and Work Dog Association. Bleu can find a scent organizations. The company donates 20 percent of proceeds to rescue better than any human. He can find a person in the middle of the partners working to make the second-chance mission a reality. The woods within minutes where normal search parties would take hours. donation goes to the “rescue partner located closest to you.” In Minnesota, Doors open at 4 p.m. The evening that partner is Secondhand Hounds (secondhandhounds.org). includes silent auction and dinner. Tickets $21.50 or $160 table of 8. All proceeds benefit the animals. Contact Prairie’s Edge Humane Society at 507-664-1035. www.prairiesedgehs.org

30 | wagazine | spring 2016 RESCUE DIRECTORY |

Foster-based rescue focused on GREAT DANE RESCUE OF MN & WI [email protected] RESCUE owner surrenders. gdromn.org 507-641-4428 [email protected] Rescuing, rehabilitating, and DIRECTORY CHICKEN RUN RESCUE 715-222-4848 rehoming Japanese Chins in need. Chickenrunrescue.org All-volunteer rescue for Great Danes ACT V RESCUE & REHABILITATION [email protected] in Minnesota and Wisconsin. MARTIN COUNTY HUMANE actvrescue.org The only urban chicken rescue of its SOCIETY (Fairmont) [email protected] kind provides abandoned chickens GREYHOUND PETS OF AMERICA MN mchsofmn.org with love, shelter and vet care, and gpa-mn.org [email protected] ANIMAL HUMANE SOCIETY adopts the birds, as companion [email protected] 507-238-1885 Five locations: Buffalo, Coon Rapids, animals only, within 90 miles of the 763-785-4000 Cares for the homeless animals of Golden Valley, St. Paul, and Woodbury Twin Cities. Rescuing /placing retired racing Martin County at the Carl Nettifee animalhumanesociety.org greyhounds. Animal Shelter, finding placement 763-522-4325 COCO’S HEART DOG RESCUE for them in new homes. Adoption, surrender, education cocosheartdogrescue.org HEADING HOME K9 RESCUE programs, pet training, a free [email protected] headinghomek9rescue.com, MIDWEST PUG RESCUE - behavior helpline, boarding, low-cost Foster-based rescue that has petfinder.com/shelters/MN333.html, MN DIVISION spay/neuter, cruelty investigation/ saved dogs and cats from facebook.com/HHK9MN mnmidwestpugrescue.com rescue and pet loss services. unfortunate circumstances, [email protected] [email protected] AUSSIE RESCUE OF MINNESOTA, INC. rescuing more than 800 dogs and Dedicated to rescuing homeless and We rescue and provide safe and loving aussierescuemn.org cats in 2.5 years. unwanted dogs with a soft spot for former homes to abandoned, surrendered, stray [email protected] puppy-mill dogs, senior dogs, big black and neglected pugs and find 763-441-4377 COTTONWOOD COUNTY ANIMAL mixed breeds, special needs and those sick them new ‘fur’ever homes. Rescuing Aussies and Aussie mixes. RESCUE (Windom) and injured. cottonwoodanimalrescue.com MINNESOTA BOXER RESCUE BASSET BUDDIES RESCUE, INC. [email protected] HIAWATHA ANIMAL HUMANE mnboxerrescue.rescuegroups.org bassetbuddiesrescue.org 507-831-4110 SOCIETY (Lake City, Wabasha, [email protected] [email protected] Dedicated to re-homing and preventing Kellogg, surrounding) 763-647-3437 262-347-8823 unwanted and abandoned animals. www.hahumanesociety.org Rescue, rehabilitate and re-home To rescue, foster and place [email protected] displaced and unwanted Boxers. adoptable Basset Hounds in loving, DOBERMAN RESCUE MINNESOTA 651-448-0396 permanent homes. dobermanrescueminnesota.com Takes in local stray and unwanted animals, MINNESOTA COMPANION RABBIT [email protected] places them in foster homes, and adopts SOCIETY BROWN COUNTY HUMANE 651-256-2294 them out into loving, forever homes. mncompanionrabbit.org SOCIETY (New Ulm) To promote responsible pet ownership and 501c3, volunteer organization. 651-768-9755 brownchumanes.org eliminate the abuse, abandonment, neglect Volunteer, nonprofit organization [email protected] and deaths of Doberman Pinschers. HUMANE SOCIETY OF GOODHUE dedicated to improving the lives of 507-359-2312 COUNTY (Red Wing) companion rabbits. Protection and welfare of animals ENGLISH SPRINGER RESCUE hsgcpets.org through education, sanctuary, AMERICA, INC. [email protected] MINNESOTA GREYHOUND RESCUE adoption and promotion of springerrescue.org 651-388-5286 Minnesotagreyhoundrescue.org responsible ownership. [email protected] Nonprofit, limited-admission, low-kill [email protected] 507-271-8107 shelter taking in all strays from Goodhue 507-272-3467 CAMP COMPANION, INC. (Rochester) Foster care placement organization County and other areas as well as owner Dedicated to finding responsible campcompanion.org for Springer Spaniels. surrenders when space is available. homes for Greyhounds who are no [email protected] longer used by the racing industry. 507-951-7801 FELINE RESCUE INC. (St. Paul) ITALIAN GREYHOUND RESCUE Trap-Neuter-Return for farm and felinerescue.org OF MN/ND MINNESOTA HOOVED ANIMAL feral cats.Adoption program for [email protected] Kristin (MN): [email protected] RESCUE FOUNDATION cats and dogs with adoption events 651-642-5900 Michelle (ND): [email protected] mnhoovedanimalrescue.org every Saturday at different pet No-kill 501c3 shelter, foster, iggyrescue.org [email protected] stores in Rochester. outreach, and education for stray, Foster-based rescue and rehoming 763-856-3119 abused and abandoned cats until service, and an IGCA affiliate. Non-profit organization dedicated CARING FOR CATS (St. Paul) they are adopted. to rescuing, rehabilitating, retraining caring-for-cats.org LUCKY’S PLACE and re-homing horses and other 651-407-8485 GEMINI ROTTWEILER AND luckysplace.org hooved animals in need. All-volunteer, no-kill, non-profit PITBULL RESCUE [email protected] shelter for cats and kittens in North gemini.petfinder.org 320-241-1829 MINNESOTA SHELTIE RESCUE St. Paul, funded 100% by donations. [email protected] No-kill, non-profit cat rescue. mnsheltierescue.org 320-598-3087 [email protected] CATS MEOW DOGS BARK RESCUE We are dedicated to saving the lives LUV A CHIN JAPANESE CHIN 612-616-7477 kelvarmair.petfinder.com of these misunderstood breeds, and RESCUE (Twin Cities based, Finding the best and last home for [email protected] offering them a second chance at a nationwide foster network) Shelties in need. 651-343-1964 forever home. www.luvachinrescue.org

www.thewagazine.com | 31 MINNESOTA WISCONSIN COLLIE NORTHWOODS HUMANE SOCIETY RUFF START RESCUE STEELE COUNTY HUMANE RESCUE (Wyoming) ruffstartrescue.org SOCIETY (Owatonna) mwcr.org northwoodshs.org [email protected] steelecountyhumanesociety.org [email protected] [email protected] 763-355-3981 [email protected] 612-869-0480 651-982-0240 507-451-4512 Dedicated to finding new hope Serving Chisago County and SAFE HAVEN PET RESCUE Foster home based rescue helping and new homes for Collies in need surrounding communities by caring (Rochester) stray and abandoned animals in of homes. for animals in need and helping them safehavenpetrescue.org greater Steele County. find a home. [email protected] MOWER COUNTY HUMANE 507-529-4079 TRI-COUNTY HUMANE SOCIETY SOCIETY (Austin) PAWS AND CLAWS HUMANE Committed to finding safe, loving and tricountyhumanesociety.org mowercountyhumanesociety.org SOCIETY (Rochester) secure homes for lost, abandoned pets@tricountyhumanesociety.org [email protected] pawsandclaws.org and stray companion animals. 320-252-0896 507-437-9262 [email protected] We believe in the human/animal No-kill shelter staffed entirely by 507-288-7226 S.A.F.E. SANCTUARY (FARIBAULT) bond and exist to support Central volunteers. To promote and provide humane safesanctuary.org Minn. by practicing and promoting protection and shelter for abandoned [email protected] quality adoption services and MORRISON COUNTY ANIMAL or lost companion animals, seek 507-334-7901 education programs. HUMANE SOCIETY (Little Falls) adoptive homes, provide public Foster-based, no-kill rescue mcpets.org education regarding the societal WAGS & WHISKERS ANIMAL [email protected] or problem of animal overpopulation, SAVE-A-BULL RESCUE RESCUE OF MN [email protected] promote responsible companion animal saveabullmn.com wagsmn.org 320-632-0703 care, and advocate the spaying and Dedicated to the rescue, [email protected] We take in unloved and unwanted neutering of all companion animals. rehabilitation, and re-homing of Volunteer 501(c)(3), non-profit animals to place in forever homes. American Pit Bull Terriers and other animal rescue organization PAWS=PRECIOUS ANIMALS Bull breeds. dedicated to saving the lives of NATIONAL BRITTANY RESCUE AND WORTH SAVING homeless animals and educating ADOPTION NETWORK pawsofjackson.com SECOND CHANCE ANIMAL RESCUE the community on responsible pet nbran.org [email protected] secondchancerescue.org ownership. [email protected] 507-841-1834 651-771-5662 WASECA COUNTY ANIMAL 605-224-2964 Working together to save as many animals Foster-based dog and cat rescue HUMANE SOCIETY Rescues, rehabilitates and re-homes as possible in the Jackson County area. organization dedicated to rescuing, wcahs.petfinder.com Brittanys in need. caring for and adopting out homeless [email protected] PET HAVEN INC. OF MN dogs and cats. 507-201-7287 NORTHERN LIGHTS GREYHOUND PetHavenMN.org 501c3, no-kill organization that ADOPTION [email protected] SECONDHAND HOUNDS helps homeless animals of all types NLGA-MN.org 952-831-3825 (Minnetonka) in numerous counties in South [email protected] Created in 1952 to rescue, rehome Secondhandhounds.org Central Minn. 763-754-9754 and advocate for companion animals. [email protected] Dedicated to finding responsible homes for 952-322-7643 WINONA AREA HUMANE SOCIETY retired racing Greyhounds and educating PRAIRIE’S EDGE HUMANE winonahumanesociety.org the public about Greyhounds as pets. SOCIETY (Northfield) SHIH TZU RESCUE OF MINNESOTA 507-452-3135 prairiesedgehs.org shihtzurescuemn.org NORTHSTAR GREAT PYRENEES [email protected] All-volunteer organization with a RESCUE OF MN 507-664-1035 mission to rescue, rehabilitate, and northstargreatpyrs.com Serving Rice County. Mission to rehome Shih Tzus and Shih Tzu mixes. [email protected] promote the value of animals LOST AND 612-379-0010 through care and education SMALL DOG RESCUE OF FOUND PETS Dedicated to providing rescue/rehoming, MINNESOTA Report lost and found pets breed education and fun activities for RESCUED PETS ARE WONDERFUL smalldogsminnesota.org of Southeast Minnesota: Great Pyrenees and their owners. rpaw.org [email protected] facebook.com/SEMNLost.Found [email protected] All-volunteer group committed NORTHSTAR SHIH TZU RESCUE 763-757-8204 to the rescue, rehabilitation, facebook.com/NorthStarShihTzuRescue To rescue companion animals and and placement of dogs Report lost and found dogs [email protected] find them loving forever homes. 20 pounds and under. of Minnesota: 612-209-4502 facebook.com/LDoMN We rescue Shih Tzu and Shih Tzu blend RETRIEVE A GOLDEN OF SOUTHWEST METRO ANIMAL dogs, evaluate them in foster homes and MINNESOTA (RAGOM) RESCUE then match them to their perfect family. ragom.org swmetroanimalrescue.org [email protected] [email protected] NORTHWOODS ANIMAL RESCUE 952-946-8070 952-368-PAWS (7297) STOP OVER-POPULATION SANCTUARY & ADOPTION CENTER Rescuing and re-homing Golden Non-profit organization committed SPAY AND NEUTER “NARS” (Andover) Retrievers and Golden mixes in MN, to the rescue of abandoned, abused YOUR PETS northwoodsrescue.org IA, ND, SD and western WI. and stray domestic animals.

32 | wagazine | spring 2016 GET THE SCOOP| GET THE SCOOP April 9 May 21 Are chickens in your future? Rochester Feed & Country Pet Adoption Day, Steele County Humane MARCH Store, north location, 11am, rochesterfeed.com Society, location TBD, steelecountyhumanesociety.org April 11 March 5 Assisi Chimney Swifts, 6:30–8pm, Assisi Heights. Come May 21 Meet & Greet Adoption Event and $5 dog nail trims for learn about one of the aerial cleaners that help keep English Springer Rescue America “Meet Prairie’s Edge Humane Society, 11am–1pm, insect populations at bay, and how Chimney Swifts are the Springers,” 11am–1pm, Chuck & Chuck & Don’s, Northfield, prairiesedgehs.org important to humans and the ecosystem. Preregister by Don’s, St. Paul, springerrescuemidwest.org March 5 April 7. $10. rochesterfranciscan.org, 507-280-2195. May 27-28 Volunteer Expo 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., Sparetime Entertain- April 14 Safe Haven’s brat wagon season opens, ment, Owatonna, steelecountyhumanesociety.org Birds!, 2:30-3:30pm, Assisi Heights. Enjoy an afternoon 11am–4pm, Silver Lake foods, 507-529-4079 March 5 of funny heartwarming stories told by Al Batt of rural May 28 English Springer Rescue America “Meet the Hartland, Minn. He is author of the book “A Life Gone Walk for Animals and Adoption Event for S.A.F.E Sanc- Springers,” 11am–1pm, Chuck & Don’s, Plymouth, to the Birds.” Preregister by April 9. Free will donation. tuary, 9am–12pm, Riverbend Nature Center, Faribault, springerrescuemidwest.org April 16 Cost is $20/person, $10/18 and under, $50 max/family. March 10 Annual Dinner and Auction for the Animals for Prairie’s Proceeds benefit S.A.F.E. Sacntuary, Sertoma of Farib- Pancakes for Pets, 4:30–7:30 p.m., Owatonna Eagles, Edge Humane Society, 4 pm Northfield Ballroom, info ault and Riverbend Nature Center. 141 E Rose St, Owatonna, steelecountyhumanesociety.org and tickets prairiesedgehs.org March 12–April 22 April 16 JUNE Chicken story Facebook contest, Rochester Feed & Vaccine and Wellness Clinic, Rochester Feed & Country June 4 Country Store, facebook.com/Rochester.Feed Store, 2 to 4:30pm, rochesterfeed.com CeleBARK 2016, 12–3pm, hosted by BACB Unleashed March 12 April 16 at the Eagles Club of Rochester, 917 15 Ave SE, Are chickens in your future? Rochester Feed & Country Pet Adoption Day, Steele County Humane Society, BACBunleashed.com Store, south location, 11am, rochesterfeed.com location TBD, steelecountyhumanesociety.org June 4–5 March 12 April 22 Paws and Claws Annual Rummage Sale. Olmsted Co. Kindest Cut in Owatonna. Low cost, high quality spay/ Annual Paw and Claws Wine Tasting, Rochester Fairgrounds Bldg. #35, donation drop off May 29–June neuter surgeries for cats, dogs, and rabbits through a Athletic Club, 6–8pm pawsandclaws.org 3, pawsandclaws.org traveling mobile surgical unit. Services are geared to April 23 June 17 pet owners with limited incomes and are performed by Bark and Rec/5k Walk Run Fur Fun, 9am–1pm, UnCorked wine tasting for Camp Companion, Salem licensed veterinarians who are skilled at small animal Four Seasons Center 1525 S Elm Ave, Owatonna, Glen Winery 4–8pm. Now accepting silent auction care. kindestcutmn.org or 763-489-7729. steelecountyhumanesociety.org items. Contact [email protected]. camp- March 19 companion.org April 23 Camp Companion adoption, Rochester Feed & Country English Springer Rescue America “Meet the June 18 Store, rochesterfeed.com Springers,” 11am–1pm, Chuck & Don’s, Wayzata, Safe Haven’s annual Riding For Rover & Friends March 19 springerrescuemidwest.org. Motorcycle Run, 10am beginning at North Star Bar, Vaccine and Wellness Clinic, 2–4pm, Rochester Feed & 507-529-4079 Country Store, rochesterfeed.com MAY March 19 May 5–7 English Springer Rescue America “Meet the INDEX TO ADVERTISERS Rummage Sale for Camp Companion, Olmsted County Springers,” 12–2pm, Chuck & Don’s, St. Paul, Affiliated Emergency Veterinary Service...... 22 Fairgrounds, 8am–3pm. Now accepting gently used springerrescuemidwest.org Andy’s Liquor...... 4 items. Contact [email protected]. The Bluffs Pet Clinic of Red Wing...... 24 March 19 campcompanion.org. Pet Adoption Day, Steele County Humane Society, Broadwater Insurance Agency...... 4 May 7 location TBD, steelecountyhumanesociety.org Cascade Animal Medical Center...... 25 22nd Annual Paws and Claws Pet Walk, 9am, Paws and Coldwell Banker Burnet, Shawn Buryska..... 28 March 28–April 9 Claws Humane Society, pawsandclaws.org Counselor Realty, Alissa Adamson...... 12 These boots are made for working Ariat Sale, Rochester May 7 Doo Crew...... 8 Feed & Country Store, rochesterfeed.com Meet & Greet Adoption Event and $5 dog nail trims, Edina Realty...... BC APRIL for Prairie’s Edge Humane Society, 11am–1pm, Chuck Heritage Pet Hospital...... 25 & Don’s, Northfield, prairiesedgehs.org Invisible Fence...... IBC April 2–30 May 7 Irie Kennels...... 8 Dansko Event Days. Put a little Spring in your step. Ford Test Drive for Your Community Fundraiser for Kelvin Andow Photography...... 13 Rochester Feed & Country Store, rochesterfeed.com Prairie’s Edge Humane Society, 10am–2pm, Dokmo The Loop...... 8 Ford, Northfield, prairiesedgehs.org April 2 Meadow View Veterinary Clinic, LLC...... 21 Horse Owners Workshop, Rochester Feed & Country May 13–14 Northern Valley Animal Clinic...... 25 Store, rochesterfeed.com Annual Shelter Garage Sale for Prairie’s Edge Humane Pet Stop...... 13 Society, Northfield (location TBD), prairiesedgehs.org Quarry Hill Park Animal Hospital ...... 22 April 2 English Springer Rescue America “Meet the May 14 Riverwood Veterinary Housecalls...... 22 Springers,” 11am–1pm, Chuck & Don’s, Savage, Spay/neuter clinic in Owatonna, Minnesota Spay Rochester Feed and Country Store...... IFC springerrescuemidwest.org Neuter Assistance Program’s fully equipped veterinary Sonja’s Dog Walking/Pet Sitting ...... 12 clinic on wheels delivers low-cost, high-quality spay TurnCrest Stables...... 21 April 9 and neuter surgeries for animals belonging to shelters, Wildwood Sports Bar & Grill...... 4 Meet & Greet Adoption Event for Prairie’s Edge Hu- rescues and low-income pet owners in Minnesota. mane Society, 11am–1pm, Chuck & Don’s, Northfield, Zumbrota Veterinary Clinic...... 22 mnsnap.org or 612-720-8236. prairiesedgehs.org www.thewagazine.com | 33 | HAPPY TAILS BECOMING A CAT FAMILY This cat’s story begins in a sewer but ends in a pink princess bed By Amy Brase

Sewey has made herself quite at home in the house of a “dog family.”

here’s something about the cat and put over a year since with Ashley’s dad. She is spoiled cats that can be downright a little insulated her vaccinations), with cat toys but prefers to play divisive. Either you’re a cat house outside,” Ashley knew for with receipts and twisty ties. She Tperson or you’re not. You love says Ashley. “I really certain that her dad had especially loves playing under ‘em or you avoid ‘em. No other didn’t want to trap it. Maybe I developed a soft spot for Sewey. blanket forts. As Sewey has slowly animal draws such a solid line in was in denial.” established her place in her new the sand. SEWEY STEALS HEARTS family, she has also proven that It’s a rare story in which a HE IS A SHE “That was when I knew she needed there’s hope for non-cat people. self-professed non-cat person is The cat that Ashley affectionately to be my parents’ cat because transformed, but that’s exactly named Sewey survived the winter clearly, they secretly loved her. We Amy Brase is a writer who once also what happened to Ashley Ignatius. and was spotted occasionally dart- transformed Reba’s dog kennel fed a feral cat through the winter, It’s the reason why one cat’s story ing around the yard and drinking into a cat house so she could sleep built a warm home for her and begins in a sewer but ends in a at the bird bath. Then one day, soundly in an insulated garage named her Cocoa. pink princess bed. Ashley noticed Sewey walking where her food and water wouldn’t “I’m a sucker for animals but up the street with three kittens freeze,” says Ashley. “We also took A NOTE FROM MICHELE super allergic to cats,” says Ashley. following behind her. her to the vet who thought that QUANDT AT CAMP “I know a lot about dogs but “Oh, no!” thought Ashley. Sewey wasn’t necessarily feral but COMPANION: zero about cats.” Until recently, “Sewey is a GIRL cat and she has was possibly just afraid of people Ashley was living at home with MINI CATS!” because she might have been “Sewey is our favorite kind of adop- her parents and beloved Golden She knew that she had to take mistreated by her last family.” tion. Accidental! It is important to Retriever, Reba. Sadly, Reba action. Camp Companion came to Ashley and her parents decided note that Sewey was living in an passed away and left a gigantic the rescue and helped trap Sewey to trap their feline friend once urban location and was only one hole in Ashley’s heart. and the now very large, very feral again to see if they could welcome cat of a colony of cats. All of this During a dark drive home one kittens. The cats were successfully her into the house. Over time, colony were spayed and neutered night, Ashley noticed an animal spayed, neutered and released. But, Sewey has become more comfort- through Camp Companion’s Trap- crawling out of a sewer. Her first Ashley started feeding them at able with indoor living. Neuter-Return program. Sewey thought was that it must be a rac- her parents’ house. Eventually, the “I don’t understand cat was most likely a family pet that coon. It didn’t take long to realize kittens went to live happily behavior,” says Ashley. “It’s so became stray and then became a it was a cat. Being a non-cat ever after with friends of Ashley’s, hard to read a cat! They are just mother. She was the beginning person, she assumed the cat had a but Sewey remained. so particular. I was used to an and end of a feral colony. home and was just out prowling. Ashley’s dad (being the overtly-friendly dog, but Sewey has If you notice cats in your neigh- Then winter came and she began dog person that he is) tried to stolen my heart a bit. I guess you borhood, remember Sewey and to see the cat around. pet Sewey’s belly, to which she could say she adopted us.” take that extra step to do some- “I thought, ‘Oh, man. Maybe promptly responded with a bite. Sewey is now microchipped thing to help the cats in your he doesn’t have a home, after all. Six rabies shots later (to err on the and spends her free time reading neighborhood.” We started leaving food out for side of caution because it had been the paper and watching Netflix www.campcompanion.org

507-951-7801 courtesyPhotos of Ashley Ignatius. 34 | wagazine | spring 2016 To our pets, the grass really is greener in the neighbor’s yard.

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Invisible Fence of Southern Minnesota 507.280.9791 | 800-578-DOGS (3647) www.InvisibleFence.com ©2015 Invisible Fence, Inc. All Rights Reserved. Photos courtesyPhotos of Ashley Ignatius.

www.thewagazine.com | 35 Get to Know Your Best Friends in Real Estate...

Natalia Sylvia Nate Trina Jenna

Natalia Baker, Realtor Nate Norrie, Realtor Jenna Martindale, REALTOR®, CNHS, RCC with Chocolate Lab, Stella with Lab mix, Baldwin with Lab mix, Bandit and Yellow Lab, Bella 507-993-1792 507-316-2400 507-993-7036 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] www.edinarealty.com/Natalia-baker-realtor www.edinarealty.com/nathan-norrie-realtor www.RochesterMinnesotaHomesForSale.com

Sylvia Rogers, REALTOR®CRS, GRI, ABR, CNHS, ASP, SRS Trina Solano, REALTOR®, CNHS, GRI, SRES with Collie mix, Sophie and Australian Cattle Dog, Willie with Black Lab, Tar 507-535-7039 507-261-4030 [email protected] [email protected] www.SylviaRogers.com www.trinasolano.edinarealty.com

1301 Salem Road SW, Rochester, MN 55902