SE Minnesota’s Premier Animal Magazine winter 2014-2015

wags, whiskers, hooves and fins

Canine coat review Vicktory: In memory of Hector Raw feeding Highway rescue: A pig tale

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2 | wagazine | winter 2014-2015 SE Minnesota’s Premier Animal Magazine

wags, whiskers, hooves and fins

15 22 24 34 what’s inside... winter 2014-2015

Your Photos rescue Living with Pets Living with Pets 6 7 8 11 Pets on Parade Basset Buddies Rescue, Inc. Warm Winter Coat Winter-Proof Your Pet Reader-submitted photos By KL Snyder Does your dog need outerwear? Cold weather tips By Ann Indykiewicz By KL Snyder

winter 2014-2015 SE Minnesota’s Premier Animal Magazine on the cover Living with Pets Pets at work wags, whiskers, hooves and fins 18 CANINE 24 12 COAT REVIEW VICKTORY: Horses & Healing VICkTORY Cold Nose, Warm Heart In memory of Hector RAW FEEDING Equine therapy can help heal In memory of Hector the Pit Bull Therapy dogs bring cheer to HIGHWAY RESCUE: human bodies and minds By Heather Gutshall, CPDT-KA young patients at the Ronald A pig tale McDonald House By Bob Freund By Jennifer Gangloff Photography by Kelvin Andow

www.thewagazine.com

in the business in the business book review bone appetit 15 22 26 27 Pawsome Portraits Fresh Air for Fido “Animal Stars: Behind the Scenes Raw Feeding From airbrushing to wool sculpting, Campaign unleashed to save pets with Your Favorite Animal Actors” It’s nature ’s way, but is it safe? artists capture precious pets from house fires and “Travels with Casey” By Bob Freund By Marlene Petersen By Jennifer Gangloff By Terri schlichenmeyer

you’ll always find... training Happy Tails 5 From Editor 30 34 31 Rescue Directory Here Kitty, Kitty! The Little Piggy Introducing a new cat to your home 33 gEt the Scoop Who Didn’t Go to Market By Nicole L. Czarnomski Highway rescue turns pig to pet 33 Index to Advertisers By Amy Brase

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4 | wagazine | winter 2014-2015 from editor | SE Minnesota’s Premier Animal Magazine

wags, whiskers, hooves and fins

winter 2014/15 Hector spent 2 years as a victim of dogfighting and 7 years as a Volume 2 Issue 4 beloved pet and breed ambassador. Publishers Kelvin Andow Kate Brue Ellington Starks

Editor t was 2007 and I was in love. Two Springer Spaniel Ellington Starks pups had entered my life and changed it for the better. I was responsible for the feeding and train- Designer ing and safety of these two cute beings,I and I wasn’t going to let them down. Kate Brue That same year, NFL player Michael Vick was arrested for running an illegal dog fighting Marketing/ ring on his property. He had engaged in drowning or hanging dogs who did not perform well. photography My stomach churned. Kelvin Andow I would lie awake at night, those new pups safely snoring next to me, with tears running down my face for all the horror Vick’s dogs were made to endure. My eyes now were open to Account manager the injustices of the canine world. I started noticing stray dogs, dogs left in the winter cold, Mike Quiggle shelter dogs. I read statistics like approximately 2.7 million companion animals in shelters are euthanized each year in the U.S. Writers In 2008 when I was asked to house a stray Springer overnight because the shelter was full, Amy Brase I didn’t think twice. With the help of English Springer Rescue America, a non-profit rescue Nicole L. Czarnomski devoted to rehoming Springer Spaniels, Cooper became my first foster dog. And I became a Bob Freund rescuer. Since then, my husband and I have fostered more than 80 homeless Springers until Jennifer Gangloff they could find adoptive families. And I have been involved in the rescue and transport of Heather Gutshall, CPDT-KA several hundred dogs. Ann Indykiewicz One of the 51 dogs rescued from Vick’s property was adopted by Andrew and Clara Yori, Marlene Petersen of Rochester. In their care, Hector became a certified therapy dog, a canine good citizen, Terri Schlichenmeyer a teacher of children and a media celebrity. He single-handedly debunked several Pit Bull KL Snyer stereotypes. On October 27, when Hector succumbed to cancer, those 2007 dogfighting stories seemed the wagazine is published fresh again. But that pain was overshadowed by the joy of Hector’s triumph and what he rep- quarterly by resented—for his breed and for underdogs everywhere. And the realization that without him, the wagazine L.L.C. I wouldn’t have engaged in dog rescue with the same fervor, if at all. Hector’s ripple effect P.O. Box 9073 Rochester, MN 55903 brings me to my emotional knees, and I am grateful for him and for his beautiful life.

Yearly subscriptions $20 We are including a tribute to Hector, written by his brother, Handsome Dan, on p. 24. © the wagazine L.L.C. Run free, Hector! Your important work here is done. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced without written permission from the publisher. Printed in the USA. HOORAY for the Wagazine! For advertising information: The Wagazine attended the Minnesota Magazine and Mike Quiggle Publishing Association’s Excellence Awards. We won 507-271-8385 a bronze award in the category “Single Page or Spread [email protected] Design” for our Summer 2014 article “Dogs Just Want Article information, ideas to Have Fun.” and comments: Ellington Starks 507-271-8107 [email protected] Correction: In our fall issue, we incorrectly identified the name of Project Cleo photography sessions that www.thewagazine.com honor pets at the end of their lives. Joy Sessions are part of Minneapolis-based Sarah Beth Photography www.sarahbethphotography.com/joy-sessions. Contact Grape Soda for Project Cleo sessions in Rochester: Find us on Facebook: the wagazine www.grapesodaphotography.com/project-cleo. www.thewagazine.com | 5 6 | er are great buddies. snuggle 4-year-old Cami and 6-year-old Hunt - I can’t picture my him! without life atBearCreekhis friends Kennels. with cabinandplaying the going to book (ElmerTree Walker). Elmerloves He hasalarge following onFace- up hispaws my cantouch shoulders. and about90lbswhenhejumps walking tree, Heis6years etc. old mixed blood, inone!Coon,basset, Paws andClaws. Heismany hounds ElmertwoI adopted years agofrom our miracle boy. Heistruly ing andseekingattention. Dr. atBluePearl, Jackson isthriv Elvis surgical of tion. Thanks the to expertise - ous tumors. Oneincludedlegamputa surgeries remove to underwent cancer- ago from Save Haven. Herecently 11,Elvis, was over adopted 5 years ~ | wagazine | winter2014-2015 Kathryn Lee and Pat Swarthout Pat and Lee Kathryn petsonparade ~

~ Alyssa Gabrielson Alyssa Mariah Mrotek Mariah -

having his fluffy hair brushed. hairbrushed. his fluffy having upandcuddlewhenheisn’t curl to yardthe her. with Fuzz, also4,loves who leapsforjoy whenwe in play Neko, huntress 4,isourdedicated the Mayothe Cliniccampus. Sadie is aspiring. WeSadie isaspiring. visitallover Merc therapy are both dogsand bale.Evieand hanging onahay Evie, 5, Merc, 7, and Sadie, 4,

~ ~ Dave Speich Dave

Kris Ryan Kris Want to see your pet in print? { {Send photos to [email protected].

They were soexcited! Trail Douglas the tried time. first forthe and explore picture trails. we Inthis Welife! love dogpark the goto to They funandjoy somuch bring inmy love day! each them cominghometo Poodle, inRochester. adopted both I LhasaApsoandGigithe George the called ILove GentleGiants. Wefall! aFacebook alsorun page That iswhatwe have this beenupto love beoutdoors. to Dozer (Mastiff) My two dogs Cami (Rottweiler) and

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Sue Blood and Kathy Stien, Basset Buddies volunteers, are surrounded by hounds Spike, Agatha, Louis, Lily, Elvis, Fred and Rita. The howling hound, Elvis, is available for adoption. Lily, a Basset-Cocker Spaniel mix, is a BBR alum.

Basset Buddies Rescue, Inc. B By KL Snyder | Photography by Kelvin Andow ESTABLISHED: 2000 LOCATION: Foster homes throughout Minnesota and Wisconsin About Bassets MISSION: To rescue, foster and place adoptable Basset Hounds in loving, permanent homes. To educate the community about responsible pet ownership including health “Basset hounds are big dogs maintenance, spay/neuter, and disease prevention. with long ears and short legs,” says Kathy Stein of www.bassetbuddiesrescue.org Basset Buddies Rescue.

Don’t let those stubby limbs Who they are: to make sure the dog will have Volunteer Commitment: delude you: the typical Bas- Basset Buddies Rescue (BBR) a safe environment,” says Kathy BBR has 79 foster homes and set, ever ravenous, likes to is an all-volunteer 501(c)(3) Stien of Rochester who serves on approximately 200 volunteers stand up and counter surf. nonprofit open to anyone who BBR’s board. who help in a variety of ways. loves Basset Hounds and wants If a match doesn’t work out, Typical Bassets also have gentle dispositions, are good to help Bassets and Basset mixes BBR will take the Basset back. BY THE NUMBERS: with kids and other dogs and live healthy, happy lives. “We feel committed to our BBR has rescued and/or found suit almost any household, as mission getting the dog a homes for more than 2,100 long as they get enough ex- Passion: forever home.” Basset Hounds and Basset mixes. ercise. Bassets–superb scent BBR promotes good health and hounds–follow their noses, so to prevent their sniffing from successful adoptions. Incoming IN ACTION: How to Help: here to Rio de Janeiro, they dogs see a vet for a checkup, Until adoption, dogs stay in “Our biggest need is fosters,” Stien need fences and leashes. vaccinations, neuter or spay, foster homes, with BBR covering says. “Opening your home to a dog teeth-cleaning and, if needed, expenses for vet care, medications to give it food and love. And we “They like to walk, they like treatment of health conditions. and monthly heartworm preven- need donations, too.” to relax, and they love to sit there and just get petted,” To match the right hound to tion. Primary fundraisers are Stien says. “They’re very, the right home, BBR screens Spring Into Summer, each May Freelancer KL Snyder writes to very much pack dogs. And applicants, checks references and in Minnesota, and Basset Fest, support two unruly but loveable they love you best.” makes home visits. “We want late August in Milwaukee. Cocker Spaniels. www.thewagazine.com | 7 | LIVING WITH PETS

Warm Winter Coat Does your dog need outerwear? by Ann Indykiewicz

know my winter wardrobe is ready, but I like to think I’m a good owner, knowl- hair coat for winter,” said Dr. Richer. “The what about Rudy and Rio? I’ve got two edgeable about dogs and willing to do what is best thing you can do is trust your instincts. Springer Spaniels that hunt pheasants in best for my dogs, but as I investigate the topic If you think your dog is cold, then it prob- Ibetween playing ball and taking naps on the further I’m finding there are many aspects to ably is. If your dog is doing the one-legged couch. They’re big, tough, hairy boys; they consider when it comes to coats and boots for flamingo stand out in the yard, it’s probably don’t need coats or boots, do they? our beloved four-legged kids. time to consider boots. One exception is “Dogs which are house pets are not during sub-zero temperatures, at which time acclimated to cold weather and may need Is My Dog Cold? all dogs should be wearing a coat and boots.” coats and/or boots during the winter,” said “With the exception of the true northern Dr. Richer cautions that dogs should not Dr. Eve Richer, DVM, of Cascade Animal breeds such as the Husky, Malamute, wear a coat 24/7 as their fur needs to breathe Medical Center. Samoyed … other dogs just don’t have the and have a chance to dry. Photo by Kelvin Andow Photography. Andow Kelvin by Photo

8 | wagazine | winter 2014-2015 continued on page 10 Coats for All Coats

Phil and Jacque Danielson’s Standard Poodle, Libby, struts her stuff in a Casual Canine Reflective Jacket. It’s a brilliant choice for Libby and her owners since they walk after dark. It also keeps Libby warm and safe and can be found at Amazon.com and other online retailers for $13–$35. Photos by Joe Ferguson. Joe by Photos

Sue Stanek’s Boxer, Olive, is sensitive to cold and heat. Because of Olive’s short coat and lack of belly hair, she requires extra warmth almost year round. “Ruffwear [brand] seems to offer the best fit for a barrel-chested dog such as Olive and also offers good belly coverage,” said Stanek. Terraloco carries the Cloud Chaser coat by Ruffwear, and they welcome owners and dogs in their store to try on coats to make sure of proper fit. The Cloud Chaser is made of fleece and is waterproof. The price is around$80 at Terraloco. Photo courtesy of Sue Stanek. courtesyPhoto of Sue

Buzz, a Labrador owned by Dan and Sheree Estes, was born with alopecia, which means he doesn’t grow hair. “Buzz has some fur, but where it grows, it’s a very light coat,” said Sheree Estes. Because of his lack of hair, a coat and sometimes even a hat are standard winter attire for Buzz. Photos by Joe Ferguson. Joe by Photos

Whether on a hunt or a hike outside of city limits, dogs (and their people) should wear blaze orange during hunting season—like Rio, a Springer Spaniel owned by Ann and Todd Indykiewicz Photos by Joe Ferguson. Joe by Photos

Libby (not pictured), a Wire Fox Terrier owned by Robin and Robert Arendts, has a degenerative disc disease that causes her to drag one of her feet. To give Libby extra traction and prevent sores on her foot, Robin uses PawZ, balloon-like socks made of natural rubber. PawZ are waterproof, reusable and disposable. They cost about $9.99 for a packet of 12 and can be purchased online. Photo courtesyPhoto of pawzdogboots.com. J. Meanwell. Copyright Stacey continued on page 10 www.thewagazine.com | 9 Coats for All Reasons Piotrowicz. “Besides keeping the dog clean As owners of dogs who occasionally hunt, and snow from building up in their feet, there my husband and I make sure that the dogs are lighter versions that protect dogs from hot Where to Find wear blaze orange for safety. If there is a lot of pavement in the summer as well.” snow, they wear boots to keep snow balls from Both boots and coats should be introduced Woof-Wear forming in between their toes. Whether on a to your dog slowly, as it can take time for your hunt or a hike outside of city limits, dogs (and dog to get used to them. Animals don’t always Chuck & Don’s their people) should wear blaze orange during appreciate a warm coat and a snazzy pair of www.chuckanddons.com hunting season. boots the way that humans do. There are also health reasons for dressing your The bottom line is that owners should follow Fish & Pets dog in outerwear. As our dog Gator got older, their instincts to determine what is best for their www.fishandpets.net his hair became very thin and his body fat was dog. If you’re not sure how to proceed, have a low. I politely asked him (those that knew Gator conversation with your veterinarian about what Leashes and Leads understand why I had to ask politely!) to wear a your dog should add to his winter wardrobe so www.leashesandleads.com coat when he was outside. that both of you can stay safe and have fun. Along with the additional warmth offered, Rochester Feed & a coat also serves as a way to keep dogs clean. Ann Indykiewicz and her husband Todd live Country Store Tiffany Piotrowicz, store manager at Terraloco, in Mantorville with their two rescued English www.rochesterfeed.com uses Ruffwear coats to keep water and dirt off Springer Spaniels, Rio and Rudy. Ann is an Terraloco her dog when they run together. active member and fundraiser for Paws & Claws www.runterraloco.com “I’ve used Ruffwear brand boots for my Humane Society in Rochester as well as English four-legged running partners as well,” said Springer Rescue of America.

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10 | wagazine | winter 2014-2015 LIVING WITH PETS |

winter-proof your pet Cold weather tips By KL Snyder

he about-face from autumn to Hypothermia starts with shivering and test and a specific treatment, and the sooner occupation brings important weakness and progresses to lethargy and done, the better.” responsibilities for pet owners. Pets’ eventually coma. Warm up the dog gradually. Twintertime well-being calls for precautions, If her rectal temperature is below 98 degrees, SAFEGUARD OUTSIDE PETS and pet care pros offer some pointers. rush her to the vet. Huskies, Malamutes, St. Bernards and other Frostbite’s and hypothermia’s best deterrent rugged breeds delight in the cold. “They can PROTECT PAWS is to hunker indoors, a cinch for felines but take it. They’ve got their heavy coats on,” Oh, my aching paws! Paw pads chap and impossible for social and active canines. Putzier says. “As long as they’re out of the crack; ice cuts them; salt damages them. A dab When you let the dogs out, follow the wind and they stay dry, they’re fine.” of Vaseline soothes sore pads and helps guard example of Tammie Berg, owner of It’s a Outside dogs and cats require plenty from salt, says Polly Lewis, DVM, of Carriage Dogs Life Country Kennels, Pine Island: of water, which heated bowls and buckets House Animal Hospital, Kasson, Minn. “I watch the dogs, and as soon as I see them keep in liquid form. In case of extreme cold, Or try the salve sled dogs use – paw wax. lifting their feet, they have to come in.” consider a heated mat, bed or bed warmer. Netta Putzier, co-owner of Rochester Feed and Most outdoor pets require more food. Country Store, recommends Musher’s Secret. BEWARE OF ANTIFREEZE “Depending on their age, size and body Post-walk, wash paws and legs post-haste. “Antifreeze poisoning is a year-round threat,” condition, they need zero percent (for plump “Lowriders’ bellies will likely require cleaning, says Allison Walker, CVT, of Affiliated pets) to 25 percent more,” Lewis says. too,” Lewis says. Don’t let the dog lick the Emergency Veterinary Service, Rochester. salt off; it’ll upset his stomach. “If your pet swallows some, even a little, take Freelancer KL Snyder writes to support two Clean between the pads. Dry thoroughly. him straight to the vet. There’s a specific unruly but loveable cocker spaniels. Praise pup for putting up with all that. Among ice-melt chemicals, potassium chloride rates least harmful to pets, but MORE TIPS Lewis prefers to use cat litter, which really is pet safe. Though it doesn’t thaw ice, it gives Play indoors. When the air turns too Arctic for outdoors fun, play inside. Hide and seek. Fetch down traction. “It’s effective if you can put up with the hall. Teach Fido to walk on a treadmill. To teach yourself how to teach him, read Dr. Karen Becker’s it,” Lewis says. “It’s a mess.” “Treadmill Training for the Canine in Your Life” at www.huffingtonpost.com and YouTube.

PREVENT FROSTBITE AND Check your car. Heat-seeking feral cats like to climb under car hoods and snuggle beside warm mo- HYPOTHERMIA tors. Before you start your car, rap on the hood and honk the horn to roust any snoozing stowaway. Paws, ears and tails are the pet parts most vulnerable to frostbite, a condition that Hay the horses. Essentials for equines: Keep them dry, out of the wind and supplied with water and eludes early notice. The skin pales, cools hay. Check their hooves. If you can, shelter them in a heated barn. For more on wintertime horse care, and hardens. Use tepid water to defrost the see extension.umn.edu/agriculture/horse/care/equine-winter-care. affected area. Remember that thawing out hurts, and cats or dogs who chew on the For more ways to winter-proof your pet, check www.avma.org/public/PetCare/Pages/Cold-weather-pet-safety.aspx. injury exacerbate the harm. You won’t know the extent of the damage for several days. www.thewagazine.com | 11 | PETS AT WORK ColdWarmWarm nose heartheart

The therapy dogs of the Paw Pals program at the Ronald McDonald House in Rochester. Therapy dogs bring cheer to young patients at the Ronald McDonald House By Jennifer Gangloff

ven at only 13 months old, Pals visit at the Ronald McDonald House cheer him up. All the dogs have been very Francis, a Mayo Clinic patient, of Rochester with his handler, Mary Ann patient, even if he pulls on their hair.” knows that just beyond the cold Youngquist. Enose of his 100-pound, furry-faced friend “He loves the puppies,” says Francis’s Pup-ular dogs and Jack is nestled a very warm heart indeed. mom, Tracy, who lives with her husband, trading cards Despite major surgery and months of Chris, and two other sons, Hermie and Jack is one of nine dogs in the Paw Pals ongoing treatment, young Francis giggles and Elliot, in New York Mills, Minn., about four program at the Ronald McDonald House.

claps with delight when Jack arrives for a Paw hours northwest of Rochester. “They really Youngquist started the program in late 2013 Studios Fagan by | Photos Sightech Midwest by Image

12 | wagazine | winter 2014-2015 Shiner, a Wirehaired Dachshund, and his owner, Dixie Manthei, visit the kids at the Ronald McDonald House.

along with Amy Olson, who had been a much like those featuring Flat Stanley, are by crowds or noise, and are calm and gentle, child life specialist at the House, as an often well-traveled, accompanying families even with the youngest of patients. offshoot of a pet therapy program, and it back to their hometowns and on vacations “The other great thing about this program has proved to be one of the most popular around the country, and of course, to is that everyone who is a volunteer with Paw programs among both young patients like medical procedures and appointments where Pals is so committed to it, too,” says Marit Francis and their families. real dogs can’t go. Williams, communications and community “I had this idea, and I brought it to relations coordinator for the House. “This is the House, and they were on board from 4-legged therapy something that our families really count on day one,” Youngquist says. “I could not Beyond the fun, the dogs serve an important and look forward to, and it’s a really positive have done this myself. It’s the staff here role at the Ronald McDonald House. experience for them.” that makes Paw Pals work, as well as the “The dogs in Paw Pals have therapeutic The volunteers, though, seem to benefit as dogs themselves.” benefits,” Youngquist says. “When the much as the patients, if not more. “We get The dogs in the Paw Pals program are so children are visiting with the dogs, they can more than we give,” Youngquist says. “It’s popular, in fact, that they are featured on talk about their own dogs back home, or priceless moments where you have someone their own stickers and trading cards of sorts, just this or that, and it helps them spend a who has had a bad day, with a lot of clinic which the kids take pride in collecting. On little bit of time talking about happy things. appointments and is maybe very ill, and you the front is a photo of the dog, while on the They forget the medical part for a little bit. see a smile on their face when one of the dogs back are snippets of trivia and tidbits about Their faces light up when a dog walks into comes in. That’s what it’s all about.” favorite activities. the lobby.” Golden Retriever Jack, 9, for instance, All of the dogs who participate in Paw Jennifer Gangloff is a freelancer loves playing fetch with a special red ball Pals are registered therapy dogs who have editor and writer in Rochester. and is known for occasionally tracking mud taken special classes and training. They’re

Image by Midwest Sightech | Photos by Fagan Studios Fagan by | Photos Sightech Midwest by Image Photography. Andow Kelvin by Photo through the Youngquist home. The cards, comfortable around wheelchairs, aren’t fazed

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14 | wagazine | winter 2014-2015 IN THE BUSINESS | pawsome portraits From airbrushing to wool sculpting, artists capture precious pets By Marlene Petersen

et art has come a long way since pC. M. Coolidge created “Dogs Playing Poker” in 1903. Using all kinds of media from acrylic to pencil, airbrushing to wool, three southeastern Minnesota artists combine a passion for art and a love of animals to create custom pieces which demonstrate just how varied pet art can be.

fox y ’s art box

rochester-area artist stems in ‘dog-like’ colors,” Foxy recalls. Jennie Brass loved drawing foxes in high “Messing around with the stems I created a school. So much so, that she earned the rough Collie quickly followed by a Border nickname “Foxy.” Over the years, the Collie. Being connected with many dog moniker stuck and became her pseudonym lovers through Facebook groups I found a as well as the name of her art business, flood of people requesting their own dog’s Foxy’s Art Box. likeness crafted for them.” Inspired by her own dogs and fellow The popularity of Chenille Critters Collie owners, Foxy creates custom artwork garnered attention for Foxy’s work in featuring Collies and Shelties, as well as watercolors, and people began to request commissioned pieces of other animals, in pieces in both media as memorials and gifts. media including watercolors, pencil/graphite, “A number of people requested portraits acrylics and colored pencils/Prismacolors. to be done for their beloved pets—those still Last winter, she added soft sculpture to her living, and those who have passed over the repertoire with the invention of Chenille Rainbow Bridge. I have been honored to Critters—plush, poseable figures Foxy hand capture many of those who have passed on. makes out of chenille stems. For me, those are the most touching.” Jennie Brass of Foxy’s Art Box focuses her “In the long stretch of this past cold winter Visit Foxy’s Art Box on Facebook or email art on foxes, Collies and Shelties. New to

Photos courtesy Jennie Brass. courtesyPhotos Jennie I discovered the fluffier version of chenille [email protected]. her repertoire are Chenille Critters.

www.thewagazine.com | 15 with others. They’re healing for my clients amarama art and for me. It keeps me going and reminds cowtown studio me of why I liked working with animals,” says Amara, who holds a degree in biology although art has and is a former veterinary technician. cowtown studio in surrounded Amara Vercnocke since child- “I love making and selling my sculptures. downtown Wabasha takes its name from hood, she didn’t explore pet art until 2009 I also love the interactions with people of the nearby neighborhood where owner when her family dog, a Great Dane named all ages and teaching people about fiber arts, and artist Craig Hough was born—an Humphrey, passed away. especially since [needle felting] is such a area of town so named because it had Amara had been spinning wool and experi- unique thing that most people haven’t once been a cow pasture. menting for some time with the fiber art of heard of.” Drawing was always a hobby of Craig’s, needle felting—using a needle to tangle and Although many of her sculptures are only but he didn’t begin working as a profes- compact wool fibers into three-dimensional a few inches tall, Amara custom makes each sional artist until age 30 when he got felt sculptures. She thought that particular one, paying particular attention to the details a job airbrushing at a mall. Since then, art form might make a fitting memorial for of her clients’ pets, such as varied coloring, Craig has made up for lost time, painting Humphrey. eye shape, even a snaggletooth. everything from a tiger on a four-wheeled She was right. The result was a 3D minia- “I never get bored with this art form walker to a Boston terrier on the back of ture made from wool that was both healing because each dog is unique; their eyes and a pontoon. for Amara and a creative breakthrough for mannerisms make them fun to do.” “I’ve painted everything and anything her business, Amarama Art. Visit Amarama Art on Facebook or email on every surface you can imagine,” says “These pieces are a way for me to connect [email protected]. Craig whose latest project was airbrushing people at a zombie 5K race. “That’s part of the challenge of being an airbrush artist that I’m attracted to. It makes for more interesting stories.” Growing up in a family with pets, especially dogs, Craig has always been intrigued—and sometimes humbled—by animals and their stories. His custom pet portraits give him an opportunity to meet new people and animals and learn more about them. “[Creating a new piece] is a process that starts with getting to know what idea the client has in mind. We use some creative dialogue and imagination. It’s a pleasure meeting dog owners and talking about commissioned work. Their stories have captivated me.” In addition to airbrushing, Cowtown Studio also offers artwork in full color digital prints, vinyl graphics, graphic Photos by Kelvin Andow Photography. Andow Kelvin by Photos design and traditional hand lettering. To see more of Craig’s artistry, check out Cowtown Studio’s location in downtown Wabasha at 112 Second Street East or visit www.cowtownstudio.com.

Marlene Petersen is Rochester freelance writer and editor in Rochester.

Amara Vercnocke uses spun wool and needle felting to create her miniatures.

16 | wagazine | winter 2014-2015 From all of us at the

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Photos courtesy Cowtown Studios. courtesyPhotos Cowtown Monthly Food & Drink Specials Craig Hough’s art includes Bloody Mary Bar Every Weekend 11-3pm painting and airbrusing on any surface imaginable. Wildwood Sports Bar & Grill 1517 16th St. SW • Rochester • 507-226-8380 Next to TJMaxx Shopping Plaza www.wildwoodsportsbarandgrill.com Hours: Sun-Thurs 11am-11pm, Fri-Sat 11am-Midnight

www.thewagazine.com | 17 | COVER STORY Horses Equine therapy can help heal human bodies and mindsHealingHealing By Bob Freund | Photography by Kelvin Andow&

orse sense can turn into psychotherapy at Along the trail, the rider experiences different horse Horses and Heroes ranch at Rochester. A movements and hears different sounds underfoot, horseback ride at RideAbility, located just Michelizzi explained. south of Pine Island, likewise can give the More experienced riders can work on turns, opening rider a new vantage point on his or her trail ahead. and closing a gate, and other skills. Together, the team H Therapists now are using the sensitivities of horses also can navigate through a “tire tunnel,” where tire to help heal our human bodies and minds. Called obstacles hang from a tree at about saddle height. At the “equine-assisted therapies,” the techniques can range end of the trail is a reward. “We have Swiss cow bells,” from beneficial recreation to in-depth guidance. Locally, ready to ring – if the riders can hold their horses and several horse centers offer therapeutic encounters with reach them, she said. the animals, whether they assist people with physical disabilities or those coping with questions in their lives. SITTING HIGH IN THE SADDLE ”If you can move something that At Promised Meadows Farm near Pine Island, Jeanie big on the outside, you can shift Michelizzi promises “an environment of fun and therapy, where everyone is able.” She directs the a lot of things on the inside.” operations of RideAbility, which was formed to bring - Judy Dawley, Horses and Heroes, LLC horseback riding to families of children and adults with special needs. On a fall day, before snow started flying, she demon- The horseback experience offers a different vantage strated the Sensory Trail, where riders, horses and their point for the riders. ”When you get on top of a horse, escorts take on terrain of different textures. They walk you’re physically up higher,” she said. At the same time, across a wooden bridge, hearing the clip-clop on its “They get a different sense of themselves.” For riders planks; the horse sinks its hooves into soft sand and saw- who might have difficulty walking, the movement can dust; then rider and mount are challenged by pea-sized be invigorating. “It’s as if you were walking with a very pebbles, wood chips, grass and large steppingstones. nice, natural gait,” she said.

18 | wagazine | winter 2014-2015 Horses HealingHealing

Aubry, a friend of Horses and Heroes, gets close to her pal. www.thewagazine.com | 19 Top: Horses and Heroes owners Judy Dawley and Audrey RideAbility brings therapeutic horseback riding to families of adults and children with special Lidke help people work with horses to make changes in needs. Spirit painting, in which clients use washable paints to color the horse, is “a unique way for their own lives. Bottom: Kendra, a friend of Horses and a group of clients to spend time close to the horse and close to each other,” said executive direc- Heroes, leads her horse in the indoor arena. tor Jeanie Michelizzi.

RideAbility also welcomes the entire Michelizzi said. She’s seen other personal distinct personalities, and they communicate family. Horseback riding gives brothers and growth stories, as well. At RideAbility, with their actions. “Horses will react to sisters a chance to share an activity in the “I get to fulfill my dream of helping people,” whatever the energy is from whoever is in same way as their siblings with disabilities, she said. the arena,” said Dawley. “They’re incredibly Michelizzi said. intuitive,” she said. In the wintertime, much of the activity NO RIDING THE HORSES, During the encounter, Lidke and Dawley is in the farm’s indoor arena, where there is PLEASE work as a therapy team. Lidke typically ob- a specialized ramp with a lift to help riders Visitors to the stables at Horses and Heroes, serves the horse, while Dawley analyzes and mount horses. RideAbility also uses an LLC on Rochester’s southeast side never step guides the interaction. Often, the client and outdoor arena at the farm. into a stirrup. Instead, clients meet, move, horse must work together to create a pathway The organization had nine active horses walk and solve problems with horses entirely or avoid obstacles in a fenced-in arena. The in the fall, although that number can change on foot. results can be telling. “What happens in the by seasons. One mare, Hannah, was named Owners Audrey Lidke and Judy Dawley— arena connects the dots to what happens in “Equine of the Year” for the multi-state both licensed, independent social workers (the client’s) real life,” Dawley said. region of PATH International (Professional with extensive experience—follow the Jenn Stokes, a psychology student with St. Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship methods of the Equine Assisted Growth and Mary’s University of Minnesota, was part of International), with which RideAbility is Learning Association, and the accrediting a psychotherapy class taught by the Horses affiliated. group excludes riding. and Heroes founders. “For some reason, they Founded by three area women in 1997 They started their practice in March 2009 (horses) can actually just tell what a person at a different site, RideAbiilty now has 80 after taking an equine business class. Their is feeling and react to it—which happened volunteers, who are led by Michelizzi. It idea was to open a practice “so people can during class,” she said, serves about 125 people with disabilities understand the power of how horses can For example, one classmate feared her each year in classes and holds several help people make the changes they need,” horse. The mare seemed to sense that discom- fundraising activities. Lidke said. fort, but wanted to be close to her. “One class The daughter of one founder still comes Their clients encounter the horses and in particular, she (classmate) was just being to RideAbility, and “She’s an excellent rider,” forge a relationship. These social animals have followed around the whole time. The horse Photos courtesyPhotos of RideAbility.

20 | wagazine | winter 2014-2015 Turn Your PASSION Into A PROFESSION

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Information regarding program cost, graduate outcomes, and the occupations each program prepares students to enter can be accessed via links on the individual program web pages within the Minnesota School of Business website. The program web pages can be accessed by using the following link http://www.msbcollege.edu/degree-programs/.

would just continuously follow her,” she said. Personally, Stokes said, “I just felt really calm because I like to be around them (horses). If I had a bad day beforehand, it would kind of mellow me out more.” Handling a 1,200-pound horse also can build confidence in clients. “If you can move something that big on the outside, you can shift a lot of things on the inside,” Dawley said. Their business name, Horses and Heroes, also was designed to inspire. “We wanted to tap into the hero that is in every one of us,” Lidke said. Veterinarian Bob Freund is a freelance writer based in always on duty Rochester

The Equine Assisted Growth and Rochester Clinic Learning Association has other member 507-424-3976 horse therapy centers in southeastern Minnesota. They include: 121 23rd Ave SW Rochester, MN 55902 Centaur Healing Center in Eyota: www.centaurhealingcenter.com Photos courtesyPhotos of RideAbility. HOPE Ranch in Rochester: Hours: 6pm-8am Monday-Thursday www.hoperanchteam.com 5pm Friday-8am Monday • Open all major holidays

www.thewagazine.com | 21 | IN THE BUSINESS

Austin firefighter Troy Tigner demonstrates the pet oxygen masks. fresh air forfido 22 | wagazine | winter 2014-2015 Pet Cremations Service Serving Southeast Minnesota

Campaign unleashed to save pets from house fires By Jennifer Gangloff | Photography by Kelvin Andow

ountless thousands of pets around can save our pets’ lives. That’s a comforting Rick Speltz the country are killed in house fires feeling, knowing that the fire trucks are Owner Cevery year, but a local woman has equipped with all the proper tools.” launched a campaign that could save lives in the Rochester area. Pam Miller, the owner of BACB Unleashed (www.bacbunleashed.com), also known as Bone Appetit Canine Bakery, wants to equip Showroom: every truck in the Rochester Fire Department 232 South Fremont Street with oxygen masks made specifically for dogs, Lewiston, MN 55952 cats and other pets. As it stands now, firefighters 507-429-3336 must resort to using ill-fitting human oxygen www.CompanionPetCremations.com masks on animals being rescued from a blaze, [email protected] which can reduce the chance of saving the life The campaign wants to purchase 15 sets of pet oxygen masks for the Rochester Fire Department. of a pet suffering from smoke inhalation. Each set contains three masks to accommodate a range of muzzle sizes. Unconscious Dog Saved Miller knows the pet oxygen masks work. Equipping the Fire Trucks Yes, we make Several years ago, she and her bakery custom- While the Rochester Fire Department doesn’t House Calls. ers raised enough funds to buy the specialized keep count of how many pets are affected by oxygen masks for the fire department in the fires locally, Assistant Fire Marshal Lawrence city of Austin, Minn., where her business used Mueller welcomes the opportunity to have to be located. Just this summer, a dog named life-saving equipment designed specifically Molly was saved when Austin firefighters used for animals. “We can adapt the equipment a pet oxygen mask to revive the lab, who was we use for humans for animals at times, but pulled unconscious and barely breathing from their effectiveness is limited because they her owners’ burning home. aren’t designed for pets,” Mueller notes. “Pets Riverwood Veterinary “I just got chills when I heard about can succumb to smoke inhalation just like a Housecalls... Excellent medicine Molly,” Miller says. “If they didn’t have the human can.” and Compassionate Care, pet oxygen mask, they may not have been If the Fresh Air for Fido campaign is suc- all delivered in the comfortable able to save her.” cessful, Miller hopes to expand the program surroundings of your home. Miller now wants to purchase 15 sets of to communities around Rochester, including pet oxygen masks for the Rochester Fire Stewartville and Byron. Eventually, she also We offer services for all ages Department. Each set contains three pet hopes to launch campaigns to buy protective of dogs and cats. masks to accommodate a range of muzzle vests for police canines. sizes, from a large dog to a gerbil. Miller is “It’s so gratifying to be able to do this,” calling on her bakery’s customers and the Miller says. “You hear stories all the time public to help raise about $1,300 for her about how firefighters are concerned about campaign, dubbed Fresh Air for Fido. pets, and how they’ll do whatever they can “I’m just so excited about this,” Miller says. to rescue someone’s pet. Now they’ll have the “I think it will be a thing where dog lovers right equipment to help.” Kathleen Appell, DVM and cat lovers can come together and know [email protected] that they’re equipping the Rochester Fire Jennifer Gangloff is a freelancer editor and 507.458.5466 Department with a piece of equipment that writer in Rochester. riverwoodvet.com

www.thewagazine.com | 23 | LIVING WITH PETS

In memory of Hector the Pit Bull

By Heather Gutshall, CPDT-KA on behalf of her dog, Vicktory Dog Handsome Dan Photo by Jill Tondu. Jill by Photo

24 | wagazine | winter 2014-2015 Background photos by Josh Grenell. Josh photos by Background Us dogs were split into two groups, and I was way too afraid to move out into I was afraid. I was afraid of the world. But Hector and the men, the wind, the cold, Leo wanted to see what the Hector left us today. He the unknown. But Hector, world was like. And they had done what he had set out Hector was brave. He was wanted to tell everyone to do. He showed the world strong. He would leave his what they told the first men, what us victims of dogfight- chain, time and again, and about us being good dogs. ing are all about. He broke then come back. Sometimes Before Hector and Leo left, stereotypes, he lived his life he was hurt. But Hector’s they told me that they knew to the fullest. He found a strength always kept him I was too afraid to tell all the family and found love and Handsome Dan going and he would recover people in the world about found a way to bring about each time. what we went through and change for all of us. My brother Hector then, on June 7, 2007, all that we were good dogs. I know his mom and died today. of the sounds and men and they told me that they dad are very sad. But since lights and cars came. It was would tell the people, so that Hector did such a good job, terrifying. I closed my eyes I would not have to, and so my brother Leo died a his parents have the whole and tried to disappear. Now, that the people will know that few years ago. Both Leo and world sending them love different men were taking other dogs in similar horrible Hector were brave and more and strength right now, so all of us off of our chains. I places could be good dogs outgoing that I am. Hector I know that with time they could not move. I was frozen too. Hector and Leo looked and Leo were therapy dogs, will be alright. in fear. But I looked over and around at all of us, and they but before that, we were Goodbye Hector. Thank Hector was walking next to could see that most of us dogs. And before that, we you for everything. I will see the new men. If he can do it, were not the kinds of dogs were born together, in some you again some day. so can I. who could do all that telling, chilly Virginia woods. That was the last day so they said they would do it As young puppies, we Love, Your Brother, Hector and I were together. for us. It’s good to have broth- didn’t realize the horrors of Handsome Dan I would see him walking ers like that. our surroundings. We had past my spot in the first new I never saw them again. our mama Georgia to take Hector was one of 51 Pit Bulls place. In the building, we The 22 of us who seemed to care of us, feed us and keep rescued from Michael Vick’s had people touch us. I did be suffering the most emo- us warm. She shielded us dog fighting operation. Once not know if they would hurt tional trauma went to Best from what was coming. As he was given a chance at a us, I just wanted to be left Friends Animal Society. The we grew, the hunger and better life in Rochester with alone. Hector was not afraid others went to all different the cold started to seep in. Andrew and Clara Yori, he of the people. He was brave. places with good people. Leo We were separated, each began to shine. He passed the Hector told the people that and Hector kept their prom- chained to our own buried AKC Canine Good Citizen we were good dogs. And ises to us. They went and car axles. Each with our own test and visited hospitals, they listened to Hector. I told the world so we didn’t rings of dirt worn into the nursing homes and libraries was not able to tell them, but have to. They told kids, and earth by adolescent paws as a certified therapy dog. He Hector did. And so did Leo. they told old people, sick hungry to run. visited elementary schools and We waited for a while, people and everyday people. sometimes we would be taught children compassion and a few people came to They told people on TV taken from our chains. My toward animals and how to act see us. Tim gave me a name. and in the newspapers and brother Hector left his chain safely around dogs. His story Rebecca said she would take in magazines. They told so more than I did. Hector has been highlighted in local care of us. Nicole was kind. many people that now, dogs did what he had to do to and national media, including I was not able to muster the who come from bad places survive, and then came CBS Early Show, Good courage of my brothers who like where we did get to have back to his chain and his Day NY, People Magazine, enjoyed the visits from the the same chances we did. dirt ring. Seasons changed, E! Entertainment News, new people. They did a good job telling. humans would come and go Entertainment Weekly and leo left us a few years ago. and each lonely day would NPR’s Fresh Air. Hector died of And we were very sad. But creep into the next. Hour cancer on October 27, 2014. his mom Marthina runs a pit upon hour of boredom, our www.hectorthepitbull.com bull rescue, OurPack, and is minds atrophying from lack a CPDT-KA trainer like my

Handome Dan photo by Aleksandra Gajdeczka. photo by Dan Handome of stimulation. mom. She continues to help dogs like us every day.

www.thewagazine.com | 25 Background photos by Josh Grenell. Josh photos by Background Book Signing Come meet Ruby and Patrick Bettendorf at the Roches- ter Barnes & Noble store on Sat., Dec. 21, from TIME to TIME.

| book review

“Animal Stars: Behind the Scenes with Your Favorite Animal Actors” by Robin Ganzert, PhD and Allen & Linda Anderson, foreword by Marty Becker, DVM, c.2014, New World Library, $22.95 / $27.95 Canada, 296 pages

how you can teach old dogs happened again; from then on, If your favorite star happens to new tricks. an AHA representative was con- wear fur, then “Animal Stars” is When watching modern sulted and on set during scenes going to delight you–mostly. Hollywood fare, you might when animals were acting. I was less than impressed by think that wild action scenes To teach an animal to work the brief messages from human with animals are computer gen- in Hollywood takes patience; stars scattered throughout this erated or edited. The truth is that trainers like Bobby Lovgren, book, however. They seemed what you see today is 90 percent Nicholas Toth, Mathilde de to me to be rather like thank- real and 99.98 percent safe. Cagny, and Thomas Gunderson you notes dashed off to a dotty You love your pooch very That’s because, back in 1939, use the word again and again. great-aunt: perfunctory, and much–but she’s no Lassie. things were too real, there was The authors give movie and awfully lame. In fact, if you pulled a Timmy a “horrific disregard for animal TV fans plenty of insight on That bugged me, but not and fell into a well, you’re sure safety” on at least one set, and a today’s animal actors and their enough to put this book down– your dog would probably go terrified horse died. In 1940, the trainers. The behind-the-scenes which means you should pick chase butterflies. American Humane Association peeks you’ll get are fun and hints it up. Animal lovers of all stripes This new book is about convinced the movie industry to for teaching your own critter will enjoy “Animal Stars.” Hollywood critters, trainers and make sure things like that never are helpful.

“Travels with Casey” by Benoit Denizet-Lewis, c.2014, Simon & Schuster, $26/ $32 Canada, 341 pages

With a launching point near consulted a pet psychic, and add- his trip, and he gives dozens of Boston, Denizet-Lewis coaxed ed a new member to their family shout-outs to manufacturers and his dog Casey into a gas-guzzling in Arizona. corporations. I suppose that’s RV and headed out. And “somewhere around the way to fund a book like this, In Connecticut, he and Texas,” the question of dogs and but it got to be too much. Casey, who initially hated the love was answered… Still, I couldn’t have resisted RV, contributed to a search for Why do we adore dogs so? this book if I tried, and I think a lost Corgi. In New York City, You could answer blithely, but dog lovers will feel the same. If Denizet-Lewis spent a day at the real reasons are quite deep– that’s you, and you love reading a dog run where snarling and and you’ll find plenty of them in bed, in the car, on vacation, A trip to the corner store started it fighting were common among inside “Travels with Casey.” wherever, “Travels with Casey” is all: you said “Go for a ride?” and the humans. Dog lovers will drool over this the book to pack. he nearly exploded. Yep, your dog He visited Westminster, met (almost) golden reading: we’re loves going places. And in this new the owner of the latest Georgia introduced to canine worlds, of- The Bookworm is Terri book, it’s the trip of two lifetimes. Bulldog mascot and met the fered literary kibble about dogs, Schlichenmeyer. Terri has been Inspired by John Steinbeck’s founder of PETA. He pet- and we learn something about reading since she was 3 years old travel-with-a-dog tale, Benoit ted wolf-dogs, learned about ourselves–all wrapped up in a and she never goes anywhere Denizet-Lewis says “I wanted an invisible dog in Savannah, delightful romp with a man and without a book. She lives on a hill to write a different kind of dog witnessed the proceedings at a his pup. in Wisconsin with one pampered book. I planned to travel across high-kill shelter and watched The “almost” comes, believe it little pooch and 13,000 books. America … and hang out with dock-jumping competitors. or not, with ads. Author Benoit as many dogs (and dog-obsessed He and Casey did doga in Denizet-Lewis admits that he humans) as I could.” Florida. They met a cynophobe, received product support for

26 | wagazine | winter 2014-2015 BONE APPETIT |

IT’S NATURE’S WAY, BUT IS IT SAFE? By Bob Freund

very day at meal time, Beth for reasons revolving around the health and Justin Magnuson switched his Boston Hostetter knows exactly what behaviors of their pets. Terrier, Willy, from commercial pet food to her two Shetland Sheepdogs are At the same time, the federal Food and raw feed. “I’ve never seen Willy so excited to eating. The ingredients are all Drug Administration and the American eat,” says Magnuson, who now has more than raw and natural, mixed to satisfy Veterinary Medicine Association are not wild a passing knowledge of raw feeding. He works their primal appetites. about it, mostly for food safety reasons. as vice president of sales and marketing for E Hostetter knows because she has mixed Nonetheless, many canine and cat owners Raw Bistro Inc., of Cannon Falls. and balanced their menu herself. Chances are are convinced about raw feeding by the vitality Moxie’s and Pixel’s bowls contain little, if any- of their pets. MAKING THE GRADE thing, from the pet food aisle at the grocery “I see nothing but benefits,” says Hostetter, WITH NUTRITION store. Instead, the dogs mostly will dine on whose energetic Shelties train two to three days uncooked muscle and organ meat and on raw a week and often compete in agility events. Raw Bistro is among a number of small pet- bones, perhaps with a dash of vegetable juice. She hears compliments about the “gor- food manufacturers specializing in the raw “From the moment they came home, geous shiny, glossy coats” of her pets “... and food trend. Operating from a former meat fac- they’ve been raw-fed,” Hostetter says. The how healthy they look.” In addition, “Because tory, the 4-year-old company has developed a blue Shelties, ages 5 and 1, eat “exclusively a my dogs eat raw, their teeth are always family of frozen meals called “Raw Bistro Dog raw food diet.” sparkly white.” Fare,” as well as a line of raw treats for dogs. The Rochester woman is part of a tide Hostetter also notices another practical ben- Raw Bistro processing adds some conve- of owners who pass up commercial dry and efit after meals. “Their poop is about half the nience to the homemade approach favored by canned foods to nourish their dogs like their size of kibble-fed dogs,” she says. (The pet Hostetter and others. Founder Patricia Greene ancestors, the wolves. They subsisted on fresh industry refers to commercial, dry pet foods began the company in 2010 in the basement meat from killed prey. as “kibble.”) of her home. “She was just making the food The advantages noted by Hostetter are for her own dog at the time,” Magnuson said. Raw Benefits commonly cited by advocates of raw feeding. Now Raw Bistro is distributed in more than Others include healing of their dogs’ skin 125 independent stores in the Midwest and it Raw food clearly is a niche style of feeding. conditions, fewer allergies and noticeably continues to grow. But advocates say it’s a niche that is growing enthusiastic appetites. Its line of frozen entrees includes beef, bison,

www.thewagazine.com | 27 chicken and turkey. Raw Bistro also mixes in Today, some commercial companies such on recipes—are among the leaders in the raw some organic fruits and vegetables to round as Sojos, Inc., of Minneapolis, offer mixes that food movement. Its proponents maintain that out nutrition. Like most raw food producers, help raw food devotees round out the diets. cooking with heat high enough to kill bacteria the company does not use any grains, which You add water to a freeze-dried mixture for a also destroys valuable nutrients in meats. Dogs, are thought to add needless bulk. complete meal, or provide the raw meat and like wolves, also have stronger digestive systems Those recipes are formulated to allow label- Sojos provides the rest, ready to mix. than humans, allowing them to cope with the ing saying that the meal “is formulated to meet dangerous bacteria, they say. the nutritional levels established by AAFCO SAFETY FIRST? But the pets still can spread those germs, dog nutrient profiles for all life stages.” even if they are not affected, Churchill notes. A (AAFCO is the American Association of Feed But, perhaps the core controversy surround- few raw food companies are using alternatives Control Officials, made up of local, state and ing raw foods is safety. “The risk of raw food to cooking, such as high-pressure pasteuriza- federal regulators.) is much higher than cooked–much, much tion, to increase food safety, she notes. In raw That notice is required for any commercial higher,” Churchill says. Contamination of raw feeding, “I would only, only consider a product pet meal claiming to provide complete and meats, animal organs and bones by bacteria that has been pasteurized,” she says. balanced nutrition to be sold in Minnesota. such as salmonella and campylobacter is a From a scientific standpoint, the body uses “Consumers should look for it,” says Dr. Julie threat to pets and their owners. the chemical nutrients contained in the ingre- Churchill, a veterinarian and clinical animal She’s not alone. The Federal Drug dients. “The body doesn’t care … whether a nutritionist with the University of Minnesota. Administration, Centers for Disease Control, vitamin came from an apple or it came from a The label differs from those carried by other the American Veterinary Medical Association supplement,” Churchill explains. products such as “treats” which are not nutri- and other veterinary groups recommend But dog owners also want to see their be- tionally complete. against raw feeding. One problem is a relative loved pets thrive. Some feel that the way of the Achieving that goal isn’t as simple as it might dearth of research into raw food feeding. wolves—eating killed prey raw—leads to a bet- seem for dog owners. “Studies have shown that At the same time, some veterinarians and ter way of life for their animal companions. most of the homemade recipes ... were found longtime nutrition researchers—such as author not to be balanced,” Churchill says. Steve Brown who consults with Raw Bistro Bob Freund is a writer based in Rochester.

RAW FOOD COMPANIES

Raw Bistro Inc. at Cannon Falls manufactures raw food products for Midwest markets. Find the company at www.rawbistro.com. Several other local firms also produce meats for raw feeders. They include:

Big Dan’s Trucking & Pet Food of Altura: Golden Acres of Robbinsdale: www.bigdanstrucking.com, which provides meat cuts, organs, www.goldenacrespetfood.com, which sells raw meat ground parts and bones from southeastern Minnesota cows. mixed with organic vegetables, as well as whole meat pieces. Ingredients are sourced from farms in Cannon Falls, Caledonia Raws for Paws of Minneapolis: www.rawsforpaws.com, and Glenwood, Minn. supplies cuts of meats, internal organs and bones from beef, chicken, turkeys, bison, lambs and ducks. Sojos of Minneapolis: www.sojos.com, which provides mixes that include freeze-dried raw meat, fruits and vegetables. Or add your own raw meat to pre-mixed packages.

28 | wagazine | winter 2014-2015 Yukon Quest and Iditarod Dog Mushers feed their “Oh dogs raw meats from Big Dan’s, yes so why wouldn’t you? he did...”

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www.thewagazine.com | 29 | TRAINING

Here Kitty, Kitty! Introducing a new cat to your home By Nicole L. Czarnomski

cat or kitten can be the purrfect companion. But it is a Kitty Kibble commitment. A cat’s lifespan is about 15 to 20 years, so “Cats are attracted to food by its scent and texture,” says Steve Dale, a it’s important to pick one who has the purrfect personality, pet expert who is certified by the International Association of Animal not the fairest kitty of all. Behavior Consultants (www.stevedalepetworld.com). “Cats don’t mind A eating the same thing every day. They crave consistency.” Switching Kitty Comes Home brands can upset a cat’s stomach causing vomiting or diarrhea. New territory can be overwhelming for a feline. Put the kitten or new It’s beneficial to provide both hard kibble and wet food for cats. Cats cat in one room and shut the door. Make sure the kitten has fresh are inherently carnivores with a low thirst drive. Wet food provides food, water and a litter box that isn’t near the food. This gives the more water intake and aids against urinary tract infections. Wet food is kitten time to learn new sights, smells and sounds in the new home. also higher in protein, which is essential for a healthy cat. If you have another cat at home, “let the cats sniff under the door to Wet food should be the main diet for your feline, but dry kibble is get used to each other’s scents,” advises Michele Quandt, founder and important too, says Dale. “Dry food is good for cats because it has a director of Camp Companion (www.campcompanion.org). different texture that cats crave.” Cats also need fresh water daily. Then, let the kitten out for supervised playtime with the other cat. “They require a slow introduction,” says Quandt. “When you Kativities introduce them, there’s going to be screaming, hissing and pawing. Felines are playful and love attention from their owners. Unless one cat is harming the other, leave them alone. This is “It’s important to teach your kitten that human hands how they teach each other boundaries.” This and feet are not appropriate toys,” says Quandt. She process takes about a week. recommends wand toys. This is a plastic stick with a feather or strand of fabric attached to the wand. Holding Kitty Kare the long stick keeps hands away from kitty claws. Kittens can leave their momma at six weeks of Cats like to sharpen their claws; it’s an instinctive age. At this time the kitten needs a few shots activity. Offering a variety of scratching toys can and pills to maintain good health. keep furniture safe. Felines can be trained to scratch “Kittens need to have three shots over the cardboard and sisal rope posts. For additional informa- course of several weeks to prevent upper respiratory tion on training your cat, visit the Virtual Pet Behaviorist issues that are common in cats,” says Dr. Kathryn at www.aspca.org. Murphy, veterinarian at the Lewiston Vet Clinic. “They Declawing is a last resort. “The surgery is like also need two rounds of deworming pills.” amputation,” Dale says. “The process is similar to At 16 weeks the kitten needs a rabies vaccine. Then, removing a human finger at the knuckle.” when the kitten is six months old, Murphy recom- Consult a vet for other options. mends spaying or neutering. Giving your feline friend lots of love and After the initial vaccines, cats need to visit their attention along with the proper diet will veterinarian once a year for a check-up. If you’re keep your kitty happy and healthy for bringing home an older cat for the first time, it’s many years to come. important to visit the veterinarian to make sure the cat is healthy. Nicole L. Czarnomski is a freelance writer who loves to cuddle with her two adorable cats.

30 | wagazine | winter 2014-2015 RESCUE DIRECTORY |

Foster-based rescue focused on Greyhound Pets of America MN Martin County Humane RESCUE owner surrenders. gpa-mn.org Society (Fairmont) [email protected] mchsofmn.org DIRECTORY Chicken Run Rescue 763-785-4000 [email protected] Chickenrunrescue.org Rescuing /placing retired racing 507-238-1885 Act V Rescue & Rehabilitation [email protected] greyhounds. Cares for the homeless animals of actvrescue.org The only urban chicken rescue of its Martin County at the Carl Nettifee [email protected] kind provides abandoned chickens Heading Home K9 Rescue Animal Shelter, finding placement with love, shelter and vet care, and headinghomek9rescue.com, for them in new homes. Animal Humane Society adopts the birds, as companion petfinder.com/shelters/MN333.html, Five locations: Buffalo, Coon Rapids, animals only, within 90 miles of the facebook.com/HHK9MN Midwest Pug Rescue - Golden Valley, St. Paul, and Woodbury Twin Cities. [email protected] MN Division animalhumanesociety.org Dedicated to rescuing homeless mnmidwestpugrescue.com 763-522-4325 Coco’s Heart Dog Rescue and unwanted dogs with a soft [email protected] Adoption, surrender, education cocosheartdogrescue.org spot for former puppy-mill dogs, We rescue and provide safe programs, pet training, a free [email protected] senior dogs, big black mixed and loving homes to behavior helpline, boarding, low-cost Foster-based rescue that has breeds, special needs and those abandoned, surrendered, stray spay/neuter, cruelty investigation/ saved dogs and cats from and neglected pugs and find rescue and pet loss services. sick and injured. unfortunate circumstances, them new ‘fur’ever homes. Aussie Rescue of Minnesota, Inc. rescuing more than 800 dogs and Hiawatha Animal Humane aussierescuemn.org cats in 2.5 years. Society (Lake City, Wabasha, Minnesota Boxer Rescue [email protected] Kellogg, surrounding) mnboxerrescue.rescuegroups.org 763-441-4377 Doberman Rescue Minnesota www.hahumanesociety.org [email protected] Rescuing Aussies and Aussie mixes. dobermanrescueminnesota.com [email protected] 763-647-3437 [email protected] 651-448-0396 Rescue, rehabilitate and re-home Basset Buddies Rescue, Inc. 651-256-2294 Takes in local stray and unwanted displaced and unwanted Boxers. bassetbuddiesrescue.org To promote responsible pet animals, places them in foster homes, [email protected] ownership and eliminate the abuse, and adopts them out into loving, Minnesota Companion Rabbit 262-347-8823 abandonment, neglect and deaths of forever homes. 501c3, volunteer Society To rescue, foster and place Doberman Pinschers. organization. mncompanionrabbit.org adoptable Basset Hounds in loving, 651-768-9755 permanent homes. English Springer Rescue Humane Society of Goodhue Volunteer, nonprofit organization America, Inc. County (Red Wing) dedicated to improving the lives of Brown County Humane springerrescue.org hsgcpets.org companion rabbits. Society (New Ulm) [email protected] [email protected] brownchumanes.org 507-271-8107 651-388-5286 Minnesota Greyhound Rescue [email protected] Foster care placement organization Nonprofit, limited-admission, low- Minnesotagreyhoundrescue.org 507-359-2312 for Springer Spaniels. kill shelter taking in all strays from [email protected] Protection and welfare of animals Goodhue County and other areas as 507-272-3467 through education, sanctuary, Feline Rescue Inc. (St. Paul) well as owner surrenders when space Dedicated to finding responsible adoption and promotion of felinerescue.org is available. homes for Greyhounds who are no responsible ownership. [email protected] longer used by the racing industry. 651-642-5900 Italian Greyhound Rescue Camp Companion, Inc. (Rochester) No-kill 501c3 shelter, foster, of MN/ND Minnesota Hooved Animal campcompanion.org outreach, and education for stray, Kristin (MN): [email protected] Rescue Foundation [email protected] abused and abandoned cats until Michelle (ND): [email protected] mnhoovedanimalrescue.org 507-951-7801 they are adopted. iggyrescue.org [email protected] Trap-Neuter-Return for farm and Foster-based rescue and rehoming 763-856-3119 feral cats.Adoption program for Gemini Rottweiler and service, and an IGCA affiliate. Non-profit organization dedicated cats and dogs with adoption events Pitbull Rescue to rescuing, rehabilitating, retraining every Saturday at different pet gemini.petfinder.org Lucky’s Place and re-homing horses and other stores in Rochester. [email protected] luckysplace.org hooved animals in need. 320-598-3087 [email protected] Caring for Cats (St. Paul) We are dedicated to saving the lives 320-241-1829 Minnesota Sheltie Rescue caring-for-cats.org of these misunderstood breeds, and No-kill, non-profit cat rescue. mnsheltierescue.org 651-407-8485 offering them a second chance at a [email protected] All-volunteer, no-kill, non-profit forever home. Luv A Chin Japanese Chin 612-616-7477 shelter for cats and kittens in North Rescue (Twin Cities based, Finding the best and last home for St. Paul, funded 100% by donations. Great Dane Rescue of MN & WI nationwide foster network) Shelties in need. gdromn.org www.luvachinrescue.org Cats Meow Dogs Bark Rescue [email protected] [email protected] Minnesota Wisconsin Collie kelvarmair.petfinder.com 715-222-4848 507-641-4428 Rescue [email protected] All-volunteer rescue for Great Danes Rescuing, rehabilitating, and mwcr.org 651-343-1964 in Minnesota and Wisconsin. rehoming Japanese Chins in need. [email protected]

www.thewagazine.com | 31

612-869-0480 Northwoods Humane Society Retrieve a Golden of Southwest Metro Animal Dedicated to finding new hope (Wyoming) Minnesota (RAGOM) Rescue and new homes for Collies in need northwoodshs.org ragom.org swmetroanimalrescue.org of homes. [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] 651-982-0240 952-946-8070 952-368-PAWS (7297) Mower County Humane Serving Chisago County and Rescuing and re-homing Golden Non-profit organization committed Society (Austin) surrounding communities by caring Retrievers and Golden mixes in MN, to the rescue of abandoned, abused mowercountyhumanesociety.org for animals in need and helping them IA, ND, SD and western WI. and stray domestic animals. [email protected] find a home. 507-437-9262 Ruff Start Rescue Steele County Humane No-kill shelter staffed entirely by One of a Kind Pet Rescue ruffstartrescue.org Society (Owatonna) volunteers. www.ooakpr.org [email protected] steelecountyhumanesociety.org 507-400-3100 763-355-3981 [email protected] Morrison County Animal Foster-based, no-kill, non-profit 507-451-4512 Humane Society (Little Falls) rescue. Safe Haven Pet Rescue Foster home based rescue helping mcpets.org (Rochester) stray and abandoned animals in [email protected] or Paws and Claws Humane safehavenpetrescue.org greater Steele County. [email protected] Society (Rochester) [email protected] Tri-County Humane Society 320-632-0703 pawsandclaws.org 507-529-4079 tricountyhumanesociety.org We take in unloved and unwanted [email protected] Committed to finding safe, loving and [email protected] animals to place in forever homes. 507-288-7226 secure homes for lost, abandoned 320- 252-0896 To promote and provide humane and stray companion animals. We believe in the human/animal National Brittany Rescue and protection and shelter for abandoned bond and exist to support Central Adoption Network or lost companion animals, seek S.A.F.E. Sanctuary (Faribault) Minn. by practicing and promoting nbran.org adoptive homes, provide public safesanctuary.org quality adoption services and [email protected] education regarding the societal [email protected] education programs. 605-224-2964 problem of animal overpopulation, 507-334-7901 Rescues, rehabilitates and re-homes promote responsible companion animal Foster-based, no-kill rescue Wags & Whiskers Animal Brittanys in need. care, and advocate the spaying and Rescue of MN neutering of all companion animals. Save-a-bull Rescue wagsmn.org Northern Lights Greyhound saveabullmn.com [email protected] Adoption PAWS=Precious Animals Dedicated to the rescue, Volunteer 501(c)(3), non-profit animal NLGA-MN.org Worth Saving rehabilitation, and re-homing of rescue organization dedicated to [email protected] pawsofjackson.com American Pit Bull Terriers and other saving the lives of homeless animals 763-754-9754 [email protected] Bull breeds. and educating the community on Dedicated to finding responsible 507-841-1834 responsible pet ownership. homes for retired racing Greyhounds Working together to save as many Second Chance Animal Rescue and educating the public about animals as possible in the Jackson secondchancerescue.org Waseca County Animal Greyhounds as pets. County area. 651-771-5662 Humane Society Foster-based dog and cat rescue wcahs.petfinder.com NorthStar Great Pyrenees Pet Haven Inc. of MN organization dedicated to rescuing, [email protected] Rescue of MN PetHavenMN.org caring for and adopting out homeless 507-201-7287 northstargreatpyrs.com [email protected] dogs and cats. 501c3, no-kill organization that [email protected] 952-831-3825 helps homeless animals of all types 612-379-0010 Created in 1952 to rescue, rehome Secondhand Hounds in numerous counties in South Dedicated to providing rescue/ and advocate for companion animals. (Minnetonka) Central Minn. rehoming, breed education and fun Secondhandhounds.org activities for Great Pyrenees and Prairie’s Edge Humane [email protected] winona area humane society their owners. Society (Northfield) 952-322-7643 winonahumanesociety.org prairiesedgehs.org 507-452-3135 NorthStar Shih Tzu Rescue [email protected] Shih Tzu Rescue of Minnesota facebook.com/ 507-664-1035 shihtzurescuemn.org NorthStarShihTzuRescue Serving Rice County. Mission to All-volunteer organization with a LOST AND [email protected] promote the value of animals mission to rescue, rehabilitate, and FOUND PETS 612-209-4502 through care and education rehome Shih Tzus and Shih Tzu mixes. Report lost and found pets of We rescue Shih Tzu and Shih Tzu Southeast Minnesota: blend dogs, evaluate them in foster Rescued Pets Are Wonderful Small Dog Rescue of facebook.com/SEMNLost.Found homes and then match them to their rpaw.org Minnesota perfect family. [email protected] smalldogsminnesota.org Report lost and found dogs of Minnesota: facebook.com/LDoMN 763-757-8204 [email protected] Northwoods Animal Rescue To rescue companion animals and All-volunteer group committed Sanctuary & Adoption Center find them loving forever homes. to the rescue, rehabilitation, “NARS” (Andover) and placement of dogs stop over-population northwoodsrescue.org 20 pounds and under. Spay and Neuter your pets

32 | wagazine | winter 2014-2015 GET THE SCOOP|

GET THE SCOOP December 20 Basset Buddies Rescue March 7 Kindest Cut spay neuter clinic in “Wrapping with the Hounds,” 10–3, Barnes Owatonna steelecountyhumanesociety.org DECEMBER & Noble, 1291 Promenade Place, St. Paul. Bring your purchases to our table and sit March 21 Steele County Through December 20 Camp Compan- and scratch a hound for a while. Donations Humane Society adop- ion’s Home For the Holidays adoption event. benefit vetting and administration costs, tion day, Noon–2pm, 1010 See all adoptable animals at Rochester Pet & bassetbuddiesrescue.org Hoffman Dr. N., Owatonna, Country Store South during regular business steelecountyhumanesociety.org hours, campcompanion.org JANUARY

Through December 31 All cats and January 3 English Springer Rescue America Look for the kittens are 50% off at the Steele County “Meet the Springers,” 11–2pm, Chuck & SPRING issue Humane Society, 1010 Hoffman Dr. N., Don’s, Plymouth, springerrescuemidwest.org of the wagazine Owatonna, steelecountyhumanesociety.org in early January 17 Northstar Great Pyrenees adop- March 2015! December 6 Paws and Claws Humane tion day at Rochester Pet & Country Store Society annual charity auction, 4:30 silent South, 11–2pm, northstargreatpyrs.com auction begins, 7:30 live auction begins, Kahler Grand Hotel, pawsandclaws.org January 17 Steele County Humane Society adoption day, Noon–2pm, December 6 Small Dog Rescue of 1010 Hoffman Dr. N., Owatonna, index to Minnesota annual HOWLiday Party, 11–2, steelecountyhumanesociety.org Rochester Pet & Country Store (north loca- advertisers January 24 MNSNAP spay neuter Clinic in tion), smalldogsminnesota.org Owatonna, steelecountyhumanesociety.org Affiliated Emergency Veterinary Service.....21 December 6 Doberman Rescue Minnesota January 24 English Springer Rescue Amer- Big Dan’s Trucking, Inc. & Pet Food...... 29. meet and greet, 11am, Chuck & Don’s, Elk ica “Meet the Springers,” 11–2pm, Lucky The Bluffs Pet Clinic of Red Wing...... 14 River, dobermanrescueminnesota.com Pets, St. Michael, springerrescuemidwest.org Cascade Animal Medical Center...... 4 December 6 Santa Photo Booth and Bake FEBRUARY Companion Pet Cremations...... 23 Sale benefiting Small Dog Rescue of MN. Grandeville at Cascade Lake...... 10 11–3pm Rochester Pet & Country Store North February 1–9 Valentines Rose Sale for Hank & Purl’s Location, smalldogsminnesota.org Martin County Humane Society, pick up Feb. Creative Nook and Knittery...... 14 14 at shelter, mchsofmn.org December 6 One of a Kind Pet Rescue Bake Heritage Pet Hospital...... IBC Sale 11–2, Rochester Pet & Country Store February 7 English Springer Rescue Amer- LaQuinta Inn & Suites...... IBC South Location, ooakpr.org ica “Meet the Springers,” 11–2pm, Chuck & Leashes and Leads...... 2 Don’s, Savage, springerrescuemidwest.org The Loop...... 14 December 13 Holiday Cookie Walk ben- Meadow View Veterinary Clinic, LLC...... 4 efiting RideAbility 10–12, Rochester Pet & February 21 Steele County Humane Country Store South Location, rideability.org Society adoption day, Noon–2pm, Minnesota School of Business...... 21 1010 Hoffman Dr. N., Owatonna, Northern Valley Animal Clinic...... 2 December 16 Basset Buddies Rescue steelecountyhumanesociety.org Quarry Hill Park Animal Hospital ...... 14 “Wrapping with the Hounds,” 7–9pm, Edina Realty...... BC Barnes & Noble, 14880 Florence Trail, Apple February 28 Small Dog Rescue of Raws for Paws...... 29. Valley. Bring your purchases to our table and Minnesota annual Wine & Chocolate sit and scratch a hound for a while. Dona- Spectacular, 6–9pm, Johnny Mango’s, Riverwood Veterinary Housecalls...... 23 tions benefit vetting and administration smalldogsminnesota.org Sonja’s Dog Walking/Pet Sitting ...... 29. costs, bassetbuddiesrescue.org Struve’s Paint...... 29. MARCH December 20 Steele County Hu- Wildwood Sports Bar & Grill...... 17 mane Society adoption day, Noon– March 7 English Springer Rescue America Zumbrota Veterinary Clinic...... 10 2pm, 1010 Hoffman Dr. N., Owatonna, “Meet the Springers,” 11–2pm, Chuck & steelecountyhumanesociety.org Don’s, Lakeville, springerrescuemidwest.org

www.thewagazine.com | 33 | Happy Tails The Little Piggy Who Didn’t Go to Market

Highway the pig recovered from road rash after falling out of a truck on the highway. She is now a beloved pet. Highway rescue turns pig to pet By Amy Brase

t’s like a scene plucked A New Home for faithfully every six weeks to get from the animated files of Highway his Mohawk colored—Kim has Stylin’ Pooch Hollywood. An ordinary Little Highway was in pretty decided that Highway the Pooch Dog Rescue Ifarm animal narrowly escapes rough shape after her tumble. Pig deserves to be fancy, too. Stylin’ Pooch Dog Rescue is a fate and lives on as an unlikely She had road rash down her “She’s already growing out volunteer, non-profit, licensed but beloved star. In this true-life belly and wasn’t walking on of her size medium, so her animal rescue. To donate to help story, a pig is the leading lady. her back leg. One hoof was Christmas dress will need to with the care of the animals using completely split and had to be be a large,” says Kim. “A friend paypal, use the email address Room for a Pig glued together. on Facebook who makes the [email protected]. It was a typical October drive “We kept her in a boarding cutest clothes, Sew Swaggy, has Visit the rescue on Facebook. down Highway 169 for Maya building for a few days until offered to suit Highway up with and Anthony Wilson until there she was able to get up and start a new dress when she gets bigger. was a sudden flurry of motion eating. Then we had to move People keep telling me that I ahead. A piglet had just fallen her outside to a 20 foot by 20 have no idea how big she’s going Kim Fevold out of a semi truck and had foot dog kennel,” says Kim. “She to get.” Owner, Stylin’ Pooch Dog Rescue cart-wheeled down the highway. really likes her dog bed.” Future plans include expand- and Stylin’ Pooch Without any clues about who It didn’t take long for the ing the pasture so that Highway Dog Boarding & Grooming she belonged to, they wrapped Fevold family to become can become friends and share Passion: Helping unwanted animals her up and called a local attached. “We call her the pooch space with an elderly pony. In find loving families that best fit their veterinarian. Doctor Illig of the pig,” says Kim. “If she hears us the meantime, her life is good. needs Childhood dream: To get paid Humboldt Vet Clinic checked coming, she’ll snort and run She loves bananas (but not so to play with dogs all day Age 11: her over for broken bones and out to see what we’ve brought much apples!) as a treat, roots Began volunteering at the Fort Dodge gave her antibiotics. her.” Kim’s children, 10-year-old around in the dirt for pleasure Humane Society Age 16: Transi- “I thought my vet was joking Payton and 4-year-old Marlo, and naps the day away. tioned to working at the Fort Dodge when he called me,” says Kim love to feed Highway. “I just want her to know she’s Humane Society Age 21: Began Fevold, owner of Stylin’ Pooch “The dogs all like her, too,” safe,” says Kim. “And the answer Stylin’ Pooch Dog Rescue Convic- Dog Rescue in Gilmore City, says Kim. “Highway’s favorite to the famous question? No, we tion about adoption: “It doesn’t work Iowa. “When he told me it was is my French Bulldog named aren’t going to eat her.” to just point out the doggie in the win- a pig, I thought, ‘Who doesn’t Kuddie—we are guessing dow and get the one you want. The want to help a little pig? I have because she also snorts.” Amy Brase is a writer who can’t dogs’ needs are just as important, so room for a little pig.’” As a groomer known for imagine having a pig for a pet. But I try to match the dogs with a home Kim and her family named fun dog costumes and hair- if she did, it would definitely have a that will be good for the dogs, too.”

the pig Highway. styles—one Pomeranian returns fancy wardrobe like Highway’s. Rescue. Dog Pooch courtesyPhotos of Stylin’

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1301 Salem Road SW, Rochester, MN 55902 36 | wagazine | winter 2014-2015