SE Minnesota’s Premier Animal Magazine FALL 2017
wags, whiskers, hooves and fins
RAGOM Golden Retriever Rescue
THE GREAT ADOPTION EVENT BARBARA O’BRIEN Working with animal actors in film and print
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What’s inside... FALL 2017 YOUR PHOTOS RESCUE RESCUE 6 8 20 Pets on Parade Following the Golden Rule Dogs & More Reader-submitted photos Golden Retriever rescue has The Great Adoption Event paws in two countries BY ERIN PAGEL BY AMY BRASE
TRAINING DOGS AT WORK IN THE BUSINESS 13 14 22 Ask the Trainer TLC at RST Barbara O’Brien Trainers answer your questions Dogs greet travelers at Commercial pet photographer, talent agency BY SARA REUSCHE Rochester’s airport owner, animal wrangler, dog trainer BY ALISON RENTSCHLER BY BOB FREUND
HAPPY TAILS ON THE COVER SE Minnesota’s Premier Animal Magazine FALL 2017
30 wags, whiskers, hooves and fins You Are My Sunshine 16 This Penny is priceless FROM FUR FARM TO FREEDOM BY KATHY A. MEGYERI Save A Fox Rescue BY ANNA MATETIC | PHOTOGRAPHY BY KELVIN ANDOW
FROM FUR FARM TO You’ll 5 FROM THE EDITOR 31 GET THE SCOOP always 26 NOSE FOR NEWS 31 INDEX TO ADVERTISERS
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4 | wagazine | FALL 2017 BARKS FROM STARKS | SE Minnesota’s Premier Animal Magazine
wags, whiskers, hooves and fins FALL 2017 The Rest of the Story Volume 5 Issue 3
PUBLISHERS Kelvin Andow Kate Brue The best part about working Ellington Starks here at the Wagazine is hearing stories of beloved pets from readers. Often we EDITOR receive beautiful narratives that we publish but Ellington Starks must edit to fit in to our pages. In the summer issue, we printed a photo in our DESIGNER Penny and Elphie Pets on Parade page. Sent in by Jan Haycraft of Kate Brue Owatonna, it was the epitome of summer: Penny, a Golden Retriever mix, and Elphie, a Golden Retriever, swimming in the Straight River. MARKETING/ Then we received a letter to the editor from a Washington D.C. reader, Kathy Megyeri. PHOTOGRAPHY The connection between these two women, thanks to Penny the Golden Retriever mix, is what Kelvin Andow made the story interesting. You can read it in our Happy Tails article on p. 30. But here is the prequel, in the words of Kathy Megyeri: SALES CONSULTANT Ann Indykiewicz When Janice Haycraaft retired, she decided she would become a volunteer. It was WRITERS 9/11/2001 that set a new direction for her, but it was Penny, her Golden Retriever mix, that Amy Brase directed her volunteer efforts when Penny became certified as a therapy dog. Bob Freund Jan’s dad was a Pearl Harbor survivor. Jan wanted her volunteer efforts to bring Anna Matetic comfort to underserved populations, and Jan and Penny make twice-weekly visits Kathy Megyeri to many elderly people in care centers or assisted living facilities, where many of the Erin Pagel elderly men now reside who formerly served in WWII. Alison Rentschler It is not uncommon to see framed pictures of handsome young men in uniform Sara Reusche taken during the war years and posted in their rooms. These men, although advanced in years, are proud Americans who fought to protect our freedoms. the wagazine is published On one visit in 2010, Jan and Penny heard the sound of a trumpet coming from the quarterly by patio at Cedarview Care Center in Owatonna, where Sid, 93, was blowing taps like he the wagazine L.L.C. P.O. Box 9073 did for so many soldiers over the years who were buried at Ft. Snelling in St. Paul. Rochester, MN 55903 Even on that first visit, Penny and Sid formed a special bond. Trainer Jan knew that Sid had had a Golden Retriever when he was young, and Penny seemed like a Yearly subscriptions $20 re-incarnation both in beauty and in temperament. © the wagazine L.L.C. As months passed, Penny would lie next to Sid in his bed while he rested, and that All rights reserved. No part of special companionship of secret-sharing and quiet moments intensified over the year this publication may be as Sid held her muzzle in his hand and spoke of times past. reproduced without written permission from the publisher. In commemoration of their time together, Jan created a memory book for Sid’s daughter, Kathy, that documented in pictures their shared companionship. Jan wrote Printed in the USA. it in Penny’s voice. “If Penny could have talked, those were the words she would have used to tell their For advertising information: Ann Indykiewicz story because in her face, I could see the love she had for Sid,” said Jan. “I was really 507-398-4870 the lucky one to witness such love on every visit.” [email protected]
Article information, ideas and comments: Ellington Starks Sometimes the rest of the story is the best of the story. We thank Jan and Kathy for sharing theirs, 507-271-8107 and we thank Penny for serving the veterans who served us. [email protected] We hope you enjoy the many heartwarming articles in this issue and keep the stories coming our way. www.thewagazine.com
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www.thewagazine.com | 5 6 | ~ LaurieF Fox chattingonthephone. ~ JudyN. Phillip enjoyinghispatio. ~ Andrea Miss Callie, the three-legged cat. | ~S. Kosis week. Theywere veryexcited. coming towatchthemforthe Roxie thatMicheleQuandtwas Michele. ItoldRuby, Crosby and We callthis photo,Waiting for wagazine | FALL 2017 YOURPHOTOS
~Linda &WinstonP. Brandy beingheradorableself. her! ~H.Boisen grateful totheMPBRforsaving a blessing in my life. I am forever and spunky pitbull, she has been be euthanized.Ilovemysweet on thedayshewasscheduledto by theMinnesotaPitBullRescue Pumpkin wasrescued 3yearsago Want to see your pet in print? { {Send photos to [email protected]. Kathy Bennett.~B. stripes partythrown byhismom, dressed mascot at a stars and Rio Bennettwasafestively- magazines. ~KatieMcRoberts least hehasgoodtasteinanimal the floorverydramatically. Well at ter!” Andhethrows himselfon zine in his mouth. “Drop it, Mis- River runspastmewithamaga - ~LakotaThompson ing thegreen grassofsummer. One-year-old Miss Scout enjoy- ~ KathyLee ties! We dearlylovethemall! What agreat mixture ofpersonali- keeps theothersontheir“paws.” ion. Heisourtruecomedianand adopted from CampCompan- 9-11. Oliver(right)(11/2)wasalso at myworkaftertheattackson she cametomebytheflagpole She wasgiventhatnamewhen (Bottom) Liberty, left, is now 16. 3 yearscancerfree! from Safe Haven and is now over (3rd) Elvis(now14)cametous and sheismymom’s baby. from CampCompanion(now2) (2nd) We adoptedCharolette paid off! her tothehousehold.Persistence crabby! Ittook3yrstoacclimate Safe Haven(now10)andshewas (Top) We adoptedHannahfrom [email protected] Put your pet inprint! Send to your pics IRIEIRIE KENNELSKENNELS Where life is good and a PAWSome place for your pup!
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www.thewagazine.com | 7 |RESCUE
FOLLOWING THE GoldenGolden RuleRule Golden Retriever rescue has paws in two countries By Amy Brase
t’s difficult to resist the charm of puppies grow up to be large, energetic Patty began fostering Golden Retrievers a lovable Golden Retriever puppy. dogs. Some owners underestimate the and volunteering with RAGOM in 2009. The breed is not only beautiful time and commitment required to care “I love all dogs, but Goldens have but is famous for being loyal, for them. captured my heart. It’s an amazing Iplayful and smart. Patty Larson, director of operations experience to help them transition from According to the American Kennel for Retrieve a Golden of Minnesota a bad situation and find a perfect home.” Club, Golden Retrievers are among (RAGOM), has had a soft spot for the top three most popular dogs in Golden Retrievers since the first one FROM SOPHIA TO 7,000 the United States. This makes it hard joined her family. She spent a great It was 32 years ago when Hank and to understand the need for a Golden amount of time researching friendly dogs Jane Nygaard unexpectedly welcomed Retriever rescue organization. after a bad experience with a dog of a dif- into their home a 9-month-old Golden The reality is that those same sweet ferent breed purchased from a pet store. Retriever who was scheduled for Photos courtesyPhotos of RAGOM.
8 | wagazine | FALL 2017 How RAGOM Works
SURRENDERING ADOPTION If an owner of a Golden Retriever is unable or unwilling to Adoption is taken very seriously. RAGOM works to match keep him or her, RAGOM is the place to call. Whether it each dog’s needs to the best home situation. That may mean be the discovery of allergies, lack of time to train an ener- children or no children, plenty of safe room to run, no getic dog, or an upcoming move to a place not suitable for other pets, etc. a Golden, RAGOM has a “no judgement attitude” about “People coming to RAGOM are not looking for pup- stepping in to help. pies,” says Patty. “They want to rescue dogs, and their hearts are in the right place. We have amazing adopters. ASSESSMENT There’s nothing like it, knowing that the dogs are going on RAGOM strives to find an ideal home for each dog. They to live in these families. You get addicted to it.” may be able to offer solutions to help an owner keep their pet. Whether the dog stays or is surrendered, volunteers do every- RAGOM BY THE NUMBERS (2016) thing they can to ensure the dog is healthy, happy and loved. 455 Volunteers 71,277 Miles driven by volunteers to transport 309 dogs LOVING CARE 90 Veterinary partners that provided discounted services Dogs receive comprehensive medical care, including 36 Homeless dogs transported from Turkey updated vaccinations, spay or neuter, and a microchip. 259 Dogs found new, loving families Foster families provide loving homes, basic manners, and 6 Dogs received gentle, loving hospice care temperament assessment to determine what qualities should be present in an ideal forever home and then match the dog with an approved adoptive family.
OPPOSITE PAGE and ABOVE: A group of RAGOM members meet their Turkish foster dogs after the dogs traveled 5,473 miles to the U.S. RAGOM gives dogs from both countries a second chance.
euthanasia in a shelter that afternoon. western Wisconsin. It is one of the largest ownership and support animal abuse and A family soon adopted the Golden Golden Retriever rescues in the country and neglect prevention programs, as well as they named Sophia, and the rest is his- has been rescuing and rehoming since 1985. spay/neuter initiatives. tory. Jane became known as the lady to RAGOM’s mission today remains the Seven thousand Golden Retrievers and call if there was a Golden in trouble and same: To rescue and re-home unwanted, Golden mixes have found their forever she also became the founder and director abused, neglected and displaced Golden homes thanks to a team of volunteers. Their of RAGOM. Retrievers and Golden Retriever mixes, rescue efforts include fostering, training, RAGOM (ragom.org) serves Minnesota, and locate permanent homes for them. transporting, visiting prospective homes, Iowa, North Dakota, South Dakota and They advocate for responsible pet fundraising and organizing events. Photos courtesyPhotos of RAGOM.
www.thewagazine.com | 9 The “ Turkey” Dogs
Watching the forklift gently de- and take a potty break. to children, the adult dogs are Golden Retrievers do not liver the pallet of dog crates from First introduced to Turkey by not as beloved. Hundreds are thrive in the wild because they the plane is always an emotional those who could afford to import now found living on the streets are not good pack animals and experience for Patty Larson, who Golden Retrievers from neigh- of Istanbul, dodging cars and don’t fight back when attacked has coordinated every transport. boring countries, they are now depending on scraps to survive. by other dogs. There is a law Rolling out the welcome mat sold on the streets for as little as There are not enough shelters against euthanasia in Turkey, for these furry immigrants from 50 Turkish lira (about $20 US for all the homeless dogs and so the ones in shelters simply Turkey has become her passion. dollars) and have become com- adoption is not popular, so live out their lives in shelters. After traveling 5,473 miles mon dog throughout Turkey. many are spayed or neutered, International adoption may be from Istanbul to Chicago, they While the puppies are popular given rabies vaccines and re- the only hope for some Turkish are anxious to stretch their legs and often given as holiday gifts leased into the streets or forests. Golden Retrievers.
Common Questions
WHY TURKEY? HOW DO THEY GET HERE? WHAT HAPPENS TO THEM “A Golden in need is a Golden in need,” says It’s an extraordinary effort by hundreds of ONCE THEY ARRIVE? Patty Larson. There are at least 1,000 homeless volunteers in both Turkey and the United The dogs go directly into foster homes to Golden Retrievers in Turkey and not enough States. About two weeks before a scheduled decompress and adjust to their new sur- shelters for them. Meanwhile, there are many transport date, RAGOM receives emails roundings. That’s when loving hands and hopeful adopters in the United States. with basic information about the Golden hearts come together to find a perfect match “The surrender of Golden Retrievers in Retrievers who have been through the shelter for adoption into a forever home. the United States has dropped dramatically system and are living on the street or in in the past five years,” she says. “Because of municipal shelters. DOES IT COST MORE this decrease, we began to look internation- Once 18 are chosen, the dogs stay in an TO ADOPT A GOLDEN ally. We simply don’t have enough dogs for area pet hotel and receive full vetting and RETRIEVER FROM TURKEY? all of our potential adopters. We might get health certificates to travel overseas. The adoption process is the same but the 15 to 30 families applying per dog.” “On the day of departure, each Golden fees are different. is given a loving parting gift—a handmade $475 Regular adoption fee for a Golden HOW DID THE RESCUE beaded collar made with love,” from the Retriever in the United States EFFORT GET STARTED? Turkish volunteers, for luck, says Patty. $600 Turkish dog A traveler from the United States discovered “Tucked into their extra-large airline crates, $800 Turkish puppy under one year old the problem of so many street dogs in Turkey they are transported to the airport and ready and contacted Adopt a Golden of Atlanta to make the long journey to America in HOW CAN WE HELP? (AGA). AGA mobilized and began rescue ef- climate-controlled cargo planes.” “The biggest thing is donations,” says Patty. forts in 2013. RAGOM reached out to AGA “It costs $1,800 per dog to bring him or her in 2015 and has been helping ever since. over. That covers the flight, customs and duties, shipping the crates back, paperwork, vetting, boarding and pet hotels. There are amazing people who dedicate their lives to this and nobody gets paid.”
Amy Brase is a writer who loves to tell the stories of people who live with heart. She and her husband have three children and a mini Goldendoodle who thinks he’s the fourth.
10 | wagazine | FALL 2017 WHO LOVES DAY CAMP? WE DO! Paws Abilities Day Camp is a unique dog training and socialization program run by certified professional trainers. Check it out! The Turkish Goldens arrive in groups of 18 on climate-controlled planes. They go directly to foster homes. Classes are filling up fast!
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12 | wagazine | FALL 2017 TRAINING| ASKthe canine extrovert who will enjoy meeting new people? Smidt advises watching your dog when TRAINER she meets new people. See whether she solicits By Sara Reusche, CBCC-KA CPDT-KSA CVT attention and asks to be petted by strangers. A good therapy dog will show a strong desire to interact with a wide variety of people. “The next thing to think about is exposure Q: “I HAVE A 4-YEAR-OLD your hand under her body], you can begin to various stimuli,” Smidt advises. “It is crucial CHIHUAHUA from a puppy gently placing your hand under her, where to positively expose [your dog] to all sorts of mill. She is insistent that she not you would place it if you were going to pick things and people. A therapy dog needs to be be picked up and held, but I want her up, and give her a small piece of chicken. non-reactive to various stimuli that you could to be able to take her on walks, Eventually, once she is doing well with that, encounter while working, and socialization give her baths and take you can apply some pressure, then exercises will help to ensure that.” her to the vet. How can progress to lifting her slightly, Training is also crucially important for I help her trust me?” before giving her chicken.” therapy dogs. “Taking a class is recommended Janning noted that survi- as it teaches [your dog] to be reliable in the A: Megan Janning, CPDT- vors of puppy mill abuse can presence of other dogs, people and distrac- KA of Paws Abilities Dog sometimes display PTSD- tions,” Smidt says. Training, says that this is a like symptoms which may Consider your training options carefully, common issue in survivors require additional help. however, as not all trainers have the appropriate of puppy mills. Reach out to your veterinar- education or background to train therapy dogs. “Because she has likely ian or a veterinary behaviorist “When you are choosing a trainer, it is had very little human contact, I with questions, and “if at any important to work with trainers who only use would recommend taking it slowly point she displays aggressive behavior positive techniques. Therapy dogs need to be with her,” Janning says. “We want to build or you are not seeing progress, seek out the confident and enjoy what they are doing, and trust before we take her on the equivalent of a help of a Certified Professional Dog Trainer how you train them can greatly affect that.” Six Flags theme park ride.” near you for an in-home session” and more There are a variety of therapy dog organiza- Rather than trying to pick up your timid customized assistance in helping your tions out there, so Smidt recommends girl, Janning suggests starting with simply girl feel safe. researching to find a good fit. reaching towards her and stroking, even if your Thank you for rescuing a “Choose an organization to dog generally seems comfortable being petted. needy dog! test your dog and find a place “Begin by kneeling down next to her and that you and your dog enjoy teaching her to associate your hand slowly working at.” reaching toward her with good things, like a Q: “I HAVE There is a need for small piece of chicken,” Janning advises. Reach A GOLDEN therapy dogs all over the towards her, then surprise her with a small piece RETRIEVER state, and dogs who have the of chicken about half a second afterwards, so PUPPY and I want proper aptitude, socialization, that she learns that your hand coming towards to do therapy dog and training are worth their her always predicts something wonderful. work with her when weight in gold! Janning recommends that you go very slowly she grows up. What are the with this training, over the course of several steps to getting her certified?” Sara Reusche CBCC-KA CPDT-KSA CVT, is weeks. “As she begins to appear comfortable with owner of Paws Abilities Dog Training. you reaching towards her, you can start putting A: “The first thing to consider,” says Jessica your hand under her chest, without touching her Smidt CVT, KPA-CTP of Think Positive Pets at first, and give her a small piece of chicken.” Training and Behavior, “is whether your dog The trick is to stay on each step for several wants to be a therapy dog. Not all dogs have What questions do you have for the days before progressing, making sure your dog personalities that make them good candidates trainer? Email [email protected] is happy and excited about each step before for therapy work. Just like people, there are you move to the next one. introverts and extroverts.” and we’ll put the experts to work. “Once she is appearing comfortable [with How can you tell whether your puppy is a
www.thewagazine.com | 13 |PETS AT WORK
LEFT: Gracie, a Shi-Poo, and her handler Thom hang out with a traveler near the gate. Gracie and Thom are part of a team of pet therapy volunteers. RIGHT: Tiana Rossow displays the entire team.
said Rossow. “I’ve been happy with seeing the reactions from passengers.”
GREETING THE TRAVELERS TLC @ RST As we walk through the airport, one woman is video-chatting on her phone and intro- Dogs greet travelers at Rochester’s airport duces Max to her chatting partner, showing Max on the screen. “Hi Max!” says a young By Alison Rentschler | Photography by Kelvin Andow girl on the other end of the video chat. Meeting Max renders smiles. Some take photos of him or talk about their dogs. meet Max near the gates and security Airport, a new program that includes eight Several comment on his beauty or ask about entrance at the Rochester International therapy dog teams, with plans to add more. his breed or age. Airport (RST). He stands out from the Tiana Rossow, marketing and communica- “It’s amazing the conversations that hap- crowd, a large Long Haired German tions manager at RST, had the idea to start a pen … I see conversations that wouldn’t IShepherd. Max is a registered therapy dog, pet therapy program in Rochester after visit- have happened otherwise,” says Rossow. and he is with his handler, Victoria Cliby. ing other airports that had similar programs. “People’s faces light up, they start sharing The team moves from traveler to traveler. “In part, people have traveled here for stories of their dogs, or why they’re here.” “Do you want to say hi?” Cliby talks medical issues, and are away from home,” She’s satisfied with the program’s launch to people and asks if they have a dog or if she says. “Pet therapy can help relieve stress.” in Rochester. they’d like to pet Max. She contacted the Alliance of Therapy “I’m really grateful for everyone … who “He’s the greeter,” she explains. Max Dogs about the idea and discovered they has been involved and happy with how it’s takes it all in, welcoming everyone who have a board member, Don Vaughan, in been received over time. It’s already exceed- would like to pet him. Kasson, Minn. ed my expectations.” I think one of Max’s favorite parts is “We met, and he gave me the confidence when Cliby asks someone if they’d like to we could set up the program here.” Rossow Alison Rentschler is a writer and editor living give Max a treat. He eats it right up. “He reached out to volunteers through the in Rochester with her two dogs and cat. likes his work and he’s good at it.” Alliance of Therapy Dogs, and several were interested in the program. CARING TAILS The therapy dogs are generally at the airport Max is one of the registered therapy dogs a few times a week, usually in the afternoons. VISIT WWW.FLYRST.COM/CARINGTAILS participating in the Caring Tails Pet Therapy “I’d hoped for one visit a week in the ear- to meet the dogs and apply to volunteer. Program at the Rochester International ly phases … It’s exceeded my expectations,”
14 | wagazine | FALL 2017 www.thewagazine.com | 15 | COVER FROM FUR FARM TO H Freedom
Save A Fox Rescue
By Anna Matetic | Photography by Kelvin Andow
16 | wagazine | FALL 2017 H
Thystle, a red cross form of Red Fox, takes a treat from Mikayla Raines, owner of Save A Fox rescue.
hree excited adult foxes jump up in Raines. Baby foxes mean bottle feedings greeting when we enter the fox enclosure. every three hours. Raines does this task Unwilling to be petted, they are by herself because bottle feeding a baby more interested in the treats in fox is risky to the fox. “If done wrong and our hands than us. Their noises of the baby fox aspirates the formula out his happiness are a cross between the squeaky nose, he could die from it.” meow of a cat and the short barks of a dog. From the round-the-clock feedings, I break off pieces of treats and offer Save A Fox provides the usual feeding, them to each fox in turn. Each fox quickly care, and veterinarian visits for foxes young grabs its treasure and runs away with it. and old. With their volunteers, the rescue Freedom It’s enchanting to be this close to a It’s a bittersweet day at the rescue in also provides what Raines calls socializa- fox, like living a childhood dream from Lakeville, Minn. Baby season is over and tion and enrichment. Disney’s “Fox and the Hound.” the last baby fox is going home today with his adoptive family. Jaclyn and NOT WILDLIFE REHAB FOX LADY Justyn Moon, a couple who drove from “This is a lot different from like a wildlife We watch Mikayla Raines, founder of Save Oklahoma, are here to adopt an Arctic fox rehab center,” said Raines, “because these A Fox Rescue, lean over to scratch the belly pup they have named Hashi. foxes can never go in the wild.” of her fox, Finnegan, and laugh as another Foxes are born on fur farms once a Volunteers socialize the animals and fox named Casper jumps on her shoulders. year in the spring. “That’s the only time help them get comfortable with people. The foxes here are fur farm rescues. period that we have baby foxes,” said The pups can start socializing right away,
www.thewagazine.com | 17 LEFT: Blue-eyed Rowyn is a Red Fox as well. Despite its name, the species can produce individuals with other colorings. “We are pretty sure his color morph is cham- pagne,” said Raines. RIGHT: Loki is a silver form of Red Fox. “It was the fur farms that originally bred all these different colors and gave them their names,” said Mikayla Raines, citing “well over 100 different color morphs of the Red Fox species. They are “only seen in fur farms as they have gotten these colors from captive breeding for many, many generations.”
but it takes longer with the adults. “They’ve an hour. The goal was for Envy to get used to “I get the misfits, and the rejects, and the never been petted or touched,” said Raines. someone both being present and talking. ones that aren’t healthy,” said Raines. The goal is to have one volunteer per fox to “She was really nervous at first,” said “We’ve gotten a few that we adopted out work on socializing the animal. Raines. “She stayed in the corner.” Gradually, that didn’t have tails either,” said Raines. While foxes can be trained, it is much harder toys and treats were introduced. Envy now sits “That’s the most valuable part of the fox … for them than it is for dogs. These foxes, while in laps as long as she isn’t touched. “She’s not we’ll get the tailless ones often.” captive all their lives, are still wild animals. nervous,” said Raines. “She is a happy fox.” Winter is harvest season for fur farms, Bonding with the fox is an important part of the training process. “The fox has to love and respect you. If it doesn’t love you,” she ex- “THIS IS A LOT DIFFERENT FROM A WILDLIFE REHAB CENTER, plained, “it’s not going to do anything for you.” One of the first commands each fox learns BECAUSE THESE FOXES CAN NEVER GO IN THE WILD.” is “treat.” Not all of the foxes get along with ~MIKAYLA RAINES each other, so different groups play at differ- ent times. “We want them to come to ‘treat’ explained Raines. “We’re able to get them FUR FARM MISFITS the time at which the animals have thick fur back in their cage just by saying ‘treat.’” While Raines is rescuing foxes from fur coats. “If they’re getting sick in the summer farms, she is doing so with assistance from and they look like they’re not going to make ENVY those farms. She receives a phone call when it, they’re worthless [to the farm].” One of the rescue’s training successes is an there is a fox in need. But even though the farm might not want adult fox is named Envy. Envy was their first “When they have pups that are rejected them, the farm cannot just send the fox on adult rescue. … they’re going to die anyway.” So Raines its way. “Adults rescues … are never social,” said rescues those pups. The same goes for foxes “You can’t release captive red foxes into Raines. “She takes treats out of our hands now.” with mange who would be culled to prevent the wild,” said Raines. It is against the law, At first, a volunteer with a chair and book spreading the infection, or any fox the farm and captive foxes are biologically different would sit in Envy’s cage and read aloud for wouldn’t profit from. from their wild counterparts.
18 | wagazine | FALL 2017 BASIC FOX CARE
DIET • Combine grain-free cat and dog food • Adult foxes require raw meat (eggs, deer meat, raw fish) every other day • Unlike dogs, foxes can digest bones
EXERCISE • Foxes are high energy ADOPTIONS additional barriers are needed at the bottom • Play with your fox at least an hour a day Save A Fox Rescue foxes are either adopted and top of the fences to keep a fox in. • For “house” foxes, two walks in morning out or stay with the rescue. Raines does not Adoptions also depend on whether or not and evening help keep them calmer breed the foxes; all animals are fixed. The the fox can be socialized. “We realize when goal of the rescue is to have a location to keep there’s a fox that comes through here that’s not VOLUNTEERS NEEDED the foxes and then adopt them out. “We’re going to make the best pet,” said Raines. “This There is an immediate need for volunteers going to make sure that they are going to go fox might have to be sponsored and stay here.” with skills and tools to help build for the someplace where they are going to stay.” One of those permanent foxes is Casper. relocation. After Save A Fox moves to its new The rescue has strict adoption guidelines. “Casper’s sponsor lives in Florida,” said home, there will be opportunities to work There are background checks, ensuring it Raines. “It’s her fox and she’s boarding it with the foxes. is legal to have the animal in their location, here.” Sponsors can come visit and play with and making sure there is a nearby veterinar- their fox at the rescue. ian who will take foxes. “I call all the vets that [prospective adopt- ON THE MOVE “I feel like I’ve been doing this forever,” ers] list to be sure they really do have a vet Save A Fox Rescue quickly outgrew its said Raines, “We’ve already progressed so that can see the fox,” said Raines. In some Lakeville residential property. much from last year.” She smiled. states, such as Texas, owning a fox is illegal. “We have a limit in this city, which is why “I can’t wait to see what 2018 brings us.” Raines also checks to see how the fox will be we are moving.” housed after adoption. Applicants commonly Her goal is to expand to include both farm Anna Matetic is a local writer. She lives in state they will use a fenced area. “Foxes can rescues and owner surrenders. The rescue Rochester with her husband and a ginger cat dig under a chain link fence within minutes is in the process of moving to a new three- named Fox. There are no plans to add a fox … and climb right up and over the fence and-a-half-acre property near Faribault, with named Cat. in a second.” Even with a chain link fence, fencing on the entire perimeter.
SAVE A FOX RESCUE www.saveafox.org | FOLLOW ON INSTAGRAM @mikdolittles_animals
www.thewagazine.com | 19 | RESCUE
DOGS MORE THE Great & ADOPTION EVENT
By Erin Pagel
“ t would be amazing if we could see 25 to About a dozen Minnesota and Wisconsin 40 dogs, cats and pocket pets adopted— rescue groups and humane societies will come I maybe even a few chickens!” together for the love of the animals. From That’s Pam Miller’s goal for DOGS & mixed breeds to purebreds, from dogs to cats more: The Great Adoption Event at the to ferrets, the animals will be ready to greet History Center of Olmsted County on event goers with licks, kisses, tail wags and DOGS & MORE: September 30. maybe a bit of drool. THE GREAT ADOPTION EVENT Pam is the owner of Bon Appetit Canine “It’s so cool that even if you are looking for History Center of Olmsted County Bakery (BACB) and one of the organizers of a specific breed, you could find a purebred pet Saturday, September 30, the event hosted by BACB Unleashed and in need of adoption at the event,” said Miller. 11 a.m – 2 p.m. FREE EVENT Rescued Animal Coalition of Southeastern Though each group has its own guidelines bacbunleashed.com/event/GREAT-adoption-event-17 Minnesota. and adoption process, you can meet your next furry (or feathery) friend and get the adoption MEET YOUR NEXT BEST FRIEND ball rolling at the event. The Great Adoption Event will showcase businesses and vendors will be available, too. animals looking for their forever homes. FUN, FOOD, A MAYORAL And Rochester Mayor Ardell Brede will read The event is inclusive and welcoming of any PROCLAMATION a proclamation supporting adoption. animal in need of a home, including dogs, If you aren’t quite ready to bring home the next The Great Adoption Event will be burst- cats, rabbits, hamsters and great love of your life, you’re still in luck. The ing with passionate people supporting local guinea pigs. Great Adoption Event is about more than vendors and giving back to animals and our just adopting a forever friend. communities. It will be a day to learn about Grab a bite at one of the the mission and work of our regional organiza- food trucks and check out tions and maybe meet a new best friend. the demonstrations by the Learn how to volunteer with your favorite Minnesota-Wisconsin animal group, or how to become a foster for an K9 Search and Rescue animal in need. You can even bring your dog. team. There will be mini If you love animals, this event is the place to educational sessions of be. Get a leash on Fido and get out to DOGS varied animal-related & more: The Great Adoption Event (that is so topics throughout much more)! the day and local veterinarians on site to Erin Pagel is passionate about animal adoption answer your questions. and loves her fur babies, Taz and Rico, more than Several animal-focused she thought possible.
20 | wagazine | FALL 2017 Making Handdipped Chocolates since 1976 in Historic Mantorville. • Hand-dipped Chocolates • No Preservatives/Gluten Free • Light & Dark Chocolates • Homemade Fudge, Caramel, Toffee, Creams VETERINARIAN & Unique Candies ALWAYS ON DUTY 25% OFF ANY CHOCOLATE PURCHASE! Not valid with any other offer. Must present coupon at Rochester Clinic time of purchase. Expires 11-30-17
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www.thewagazine.com | 21 | IN THE BUSINESS
BARBARA O’BRIEN Commercial pet photographer, talent agency owner, animal wrangler, dog trainer By Bob Freund | Photography by Barbara O’Brien
n any one day, Barbara O’Brien dog food bag or even that furry image in a model agency (for people) that opened up,” might be snapping shots at advertising for a Swiffer floor cleaner. Barbara says. She went to the owner of the photo session for retailer Target Since 2002, Barbara and her husband Kevin new agency. “I said, ’I’ve got a dog that can OStores. She might be on site working for have made their home on a farm about six model,’” Barbara recalls. She also promised clothing discounter Kohl’s. Or she might miles from Stockholm, Wis., in the bluffs that “I can find you anything” in the animal be auditioning 50 prospects for casting in a above the Mississippi River. They live with world for modeling. She got her chance when client’s next advertising campaign. a menagerie of animals, including two dogs, the new agency needed 10 rabbits for a job for Barbara’s job differs from most other some cats, a goat, chickens, sheep, five rescue the former Dayton’s retail chain. She located commercial photographers. All her clients horses and a pony. them, and a career with animal actors started. are animals—domestic animals, to be exact: They operate both their animal talent Barbara launched her own talent agency Dogs, cats, horses, cows and cattle, sheep, and photography businesses from the farm. called The Animal Connection in 1984. “We rabbits, chickens, etc. Name one animal, Barbara directs the creative operations, includ- find animal actors for print ads, films, all kinds and she probably has hundreds of photos of ing finding animal talent and taking photos. of media contacts.” different breeds. Kevin produces photo sessions and handles the Her four-legged clients have appeared in That extreme close-up of a friendly Jack day-to-day details of management. numerous advertising campaigns and bit parts Russell Terrier, with eyes sparkling and a in a bunch of feature films. Among them slightly upturned pink tongue, might not ACTORS THAT BARK! was the Wire Fox Terrier that played Pepper carry a credit line for Barbara O’Brien. Yet Barbara’s career with animal actors in the recent film “Wilson” starring Woody chances are, you’ve seen Barbara’s handiwork. stretches back more than three decades to the Harrelson. (The Animal Connection also Perhaps it was a pet photo on a sign inside a Minneapolis-St. Paul area, where she grew up. chased down “a few other dogs and six geese,” Target store, a canine face on front of a Purina “I was working somewhere and read about for the movie’s cast, Barbara says).
22 | wagazine | FALL 2017 Barbara O’Brien describes her style as “expressive, emotive animal photography.” BARBARA O’BRIEN
Commercial pet photographer, might recognize “Thin Ice” from 2011 and PICKING UP THE CAMERA “Feeling Minnesota” from 1996. Nine years ago, Barbara added animal The key for the handler is to think like photography to her business for the commercial talent agency owner, the animal, she says. For example, “Clients market. After years behind the scenes, she (people) sometimes think that animals are decided to put her skills to work with a camera. animal wrangler, dog trainer little people in fur suits and that they think The O’Briens’ barn became the main studio like humans,” she says. You can give a dog a for taking pictures. Barbara has developed By Bob Freund | Photography by Barbara O’Brien single command and expect results. But “you a recognizable style. She calls it “expressive, can’t give them three commands at once.” emotive animal photography.” That’s where her experiences training the Her photos often are close-ups of the animals pay off. Barbara says she achieves a animal’s face, with some distinctive feature. rapport with the animals before she will ask “It looks like the animal’s personality comes them to perform or pose. through,” Barbara says. WRANGLIN’ FOR A LIVIN’ The animal photographer says she can Once again, she gives the credit for the style With her animal clients, though, Barbara isn’t sense the mood of the animal, feeling when to a close connection with the animal. They merely a booking agent. they’re happy and when they’re lackluster. cooperate in posing because “I’m not just some “I go on set and work with the animals “The dogs that I work with love their jobs.” random person with a camera,” Barbara says. myself,” she says. She often is the “wrangler” She may enjoy that side of showbiz as much “They know me.” handling the dog or other critter. as a starring dog does. “My job is just so much At the same time, the commercial photogra- “When you train animals for advertising fun, that I never feel like I’m working.” pher doesn’t hesitate to sprawl out low on the or movies … it’s called wrangling,” she Barbara estimates 70 percent of the animal’s turf for image impact. “I lay (down) explains. “We’ve been to Texas … we’ve agency’s animal actors are dogs, 20 percent in more cow pens and sheep poop,” she says. wrangled up and down the Midwest.” are cats (mostly from the O’Brien’s farm) and Another more alarming angle: “Horses gallop- She also worked behind the scenes han- the final 10 percent are a mixture including ing right toward me.” dling her actors in several films. Minnesotans cattle, sheep and bunnies. Target has deployed Barbara’s photos across a
THE ANIMAL CONNECTION and Barbara O’Brien Photography have worked on advertising or other marketing efforts for these major brands, among others: Target Stores, Purina, Swiffer, Blue Bunny Ice Cream, 3M, Royal Canin, Ace, Pfizer, Iams, Nutrena
www.thewagazine.com | 23 range of marketing materials. “We did (photos published in 2014 by Penguin/Random House. design.” The technique can place photographed of) the Bull (Terrier) puppies for Target and She adds photos in “Daily Dose,” located on images on fabrics or other surfaces. “It could I’ve done a lot of signage in the stores,” she says. her Facebook page. “I put up a picture every be anything … a bowling ball, garden flag, Those “bullseye” puppies appear on gift cards single day of something,” whether it’s about greeting cards, wall art, fabric design,” she says. and in other Target promotions. cows, pet or flowers, she says. They are fol- “Think about all the stuff that has images or lowed. “I get inquiries from around the world.” designs or even patterns on it.” TWO PLACES TO SPOT PICS Lately, O’Brien has begun moving her Barbara offers a selection of those expressive business a step beyond conventional and Bob Freund is a writer based in Rochester. portraits in her book “DogFace,” which was digital pictures into what is called “surface
IS YOUR DOG ACTOR MATERIAL? Photographer Barbara O’Brien’s talent agency, called The Animal Connection, is looking for budding canine stars all the time. Art directors for advertising and public relations agencies contact her to place animals in their projects. Often The Animal Connection will hold mass auditions — 50 to 60 dogs at a time — to find a few prospects. It’s competitive. Being well-trained is a start, but Barbara and her staff are looking for more from acting dogs for their commercial clients. Here are some important traits. See if your pet measures up: • Be a sociable and happy dog (Nervous or unhappy animals need not apply.) • Obey basic commands. • Be “super-great,” as Barbara says, with people. • Be able to work off leash on the production set. O’Brien’s book, DogFace, was published • Be comfortable with flash and strobe lighting. in 2014. • Be healthy and correct weight for its type. • Be available on short notice. Also, owners must be available to assist in training specific behaviors. The Animal Connection generally requires owners to live in the greater Minneapolis-St. Paul area.
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24 | wagazine | FALL 2017 Small animals, birds and exotics
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www.thewagazine.com | 25 N SE for NEWS...
THE Great T E Great STRAY CAT O T ONADOPTION HUTS E ENTEVENT ASSEMBLY A group of animal lovers is hoping to build over 100 “stray cat huts” for winter. They will construct the huts this 1 fall but need donated supplies. Items HOSTE C UNLE SHE needed: RESCUE HOSTED N M L BY CO L T ON BACB OF UNLEASHEDSE MN & • Foam coolers (24-can) S TUR SE TEM ER 0TH H STOR RESCUED CENTER OFANIMAL OLMSTE COUNT COALITION OF SE MN • 18-gallon plastic totes with covers ROCHESTER 11 M 2 M • Straw SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 30TH For more deTAI , visit AC unleashed.com . . • Monetary donations for supplies HISTORY CENTER OF OLMSTED COUNTY ROCHESTER | 11AM-2PM Volunteers are needed to send emails, post on local sites for donations/ supplies, collect supplies, and assemble the huts (date TBD). Contact For more deTAILS, [email protected] if you can help. visit BACBunleashed.com | 612.816.7366
BLESSING OF THE ANIMALS OCTOBER 1, 1:30–3 P.M., ASSISI HEIGHTS Join other animal lovers to celebrate the special grace that pets bring to our lives – feathered, furry or finned. Whether their paws are padded, hoofed or webbed, all are welcome. The honored guest is a service dog named Milo and his constant companion Sharon French. Learn the many functions service dogs perform for a person with disabilities. Arrive with your “top dog” or the “purr-fect feline” and you will leave with your tail-waggin’ friend and a blessed attitude. All are winners of a genuine blessing at “Assisi’s Best in Show!” Register at www.rochesterfranciscan.org and select the date under “Events” or contact Angie at Sister Dominique Pisciotta blesses a beloved pet. 507-280-2195. Donations appreciated.
PAWS AND CLAWS HUMANE SOCIETY BURNS THE MORTGAGE
Paws and Claws completed fundraising to pay of its mortgage 14 months after starting its Burn the Mortgage, Brighten our Future Campaign. The organization raised $180,000 to pay off the mortgage and thereby avoided higher interest rates, which would have taken effect in 2018. The facility, located on 19th Street NW, is valued at $3.2 million and started with a $750,000 mortgage in 2013. The 7,800-square-foot building houses 1,150 dogs and cats annually. THE KASSON-MANTORVILLE In 2016, more than 973 animals were adopted. The facility has KINDERGARTEN CLASS OF 2017 state-of-the-art air handling, sanitation, disease-control and noise reduction COLLECTED $526.17 IN SPARE CHANGE FOR PAWS design elements. There is ample green space for dog exercise and AND CLAWS HUMANE SOCIETY. Heidi Alberts and Nicole Bjerke fenced-in play zones and socialization areas. Cat colony rooms graciously host the check presentation ceremony at the Kasson State include free-roam space for stress reduction. Theatre and then treat the kids to a free movie. Ann Indykiewicz and her With the mortgage addressed, Paws and Claws will focus fundraising dog Bella were on hand to accept the money on behalf of Paws & Claws support on direct care of the animals. and greeted over 185 students at the theatre.
26 | wagazine | FALL 2017 RESCUE DIRECTORY |
CHICKEN RUN RESCUE [email protected] MARTIN COUNTY HUMANE RESCUE Chickenrunrescue.org 715-222-4848 SOCIETY (Fairmont) [email protected] All-volunteer rescue for Great Danes mchsofmn.org DIRECTORY The only urban chicken rescue of its in Minnesota and Wisconsin. [email protected] ACT V RESCUE & REHABILITATION kind provides abandoned chickens 507-238-1885 GREYHOUND PETS OF AMERICA MN actvrescue.org with love, shelter and vet care, and Cares for the homeless animals of gpa-mn.org [email protected] adopts the birds, as companion Martin County at the Carl Nettifee animals only, within 90 miles of the [email protected] Animal Shelter, finding placement ANIMAL HUMANE SOCIETY Twin Cities. 763-785-4000 for them in new homes. Five locations: Buffalo, Coon Rapids, Rescuing /placing retired racing Golden Valley, St. Paul, and Woodbury COCO’S HEART DOG RESCUE greyhounds. MIDWEST PUG RESCUE - animalhumanesociety.org cocosheartdogrescue.org MN DIVISION HEADING HOME K9 RESCUE 763-522-4325 [email protected] mnmidwestpugrescue.com headinghomek9rescue.com, Adoption, surrender, education Foster-based rescue that has [email protected] petfinder.com/shelters/MN333.html, programs, pet training, a free saved dogs and cats from We rescue and provide safe and loving facebook.com/HHK9MN behavior helpline, boarding, low-cost unfortunate circumstances, homes to abandoned, surrendered, stray [email protected] spay/neuter, cruelty investigation/ rescuing more than 800 dogs and and neglected pugs and find rescue and pet loss services. Dedicated to rescuing homeless and cats in 2.5 years. unwanted dogs with a soft spot for former them new ‘fur’ever homes. AUSSIE RESCUE OF MINNESOTA, INC. puppy-mill dogs, senior dogs, big black aussierescuemn.org COTTONWOOD COUNTY ANIMAL mixed breeds, special needs and those sick MINNESOTA BOXER RESCUE [email protected] RESCUE (Windom) and injured. mnboxerrescue.rescuegroups.org 763-441-4377 cottonwoodanimalrescue.com [email protected] Rescuing Aussies and Aussie mixes. [email protected] HIAWATHA ANIMAL HUMANE 763-647-3437 507-831-4110 SOCIETY (Lake City, Wabasha, Rescue, rehabilitate and re-home BASSET BUDDIES RESCUE, INC. Dedicated to re-homing and preventing Kellogg, surrounding) displaced and unwanted Boxers. bassetbuddiesrescue.org unwanted and abandoned animals. www.hahumanesociety.org [email protected] [email protected] MINNESOTA COMPANION RABBIT 262-347-8823 DOBERMAN RESCUE MINNESOTA 651-448-0396 SOCIETY To rescue, foster and place dobermanrescueminnesota.com Takes in local stray and unwanted animals, mncompanionrabbit.org adoptable Basset Hounds in loving, [email protected] places them in foster homes, and adopts 651-768-9755 permanent homes. 651-256-2294 them out into loving, forever homes. Volunteer, nonprofit organization To promote responsible pet ownership and dedicated to improving the lives of BROWN COUNTY HUMANE 501c3, volunteer organization. eliminate the abuse, abandonment, neglect companion rabbits. SOCIETY (New Ulm) HUMANE SOCIETY OF GOODHUE brownchumanes.org and deaths of Doberman Pinschers. COUNTY (Red Wing) [email protected] MINNESOTA GREYHOUND RESCUE hsgcpets.org 507-359-2312 ENGLISH SPRINGER RESCUE Minnesotagreyhoundrescue.org [email protected] Protection and welfare of animals AMERICA, INC. [email protected] 651-388-5286 through education, sanctuary, springerrescue.org 507-272-3467 Nonprofit, limited-admission, low-kill adoption and promotion of [email protected] Dedicated to finding responsible shelter taking in all strays from Goodhue responsible ownership. 507-271-8107 homes for Greyhounds who are no Foster care placement organization County and other areas as well as owner longer used by the racing industry. CAMP COMPANION, INC. for Springer Spaniels. surrenders when space is available. (Rochester) MINNESOTA HOOVED ANIMAL ITALIAN GREYHOUND RESCUE campcompanion.org FELINE RESCUE INC. (St. Paul) RESCUE FOUNDATION OF MN/ND [email protected] felinerescue.org mnhoovedanimalrescue.org Kristin (MN): [email protected] 507-951-7801 [email protected] [email protected] Michelle (ND): [email protected] Trap-Neuter-Return for farm and 651-642-5900 763-856-3119 iggyrescue.org feral cats.Adoption program for No-kill 501c3 shelter, foster, Non-profit organization dedicated Foster-based rescue and rehoming cats and dogs with adoption events outreach, and education for stray, to rescuing, rehabilitating, retraining service, and an IGCA affiliate. every Saturday at different pet abused and abandoned cats until and re-homing horses and other stores in Rochester. they are adopted. LUCKY’S PLACE hooved animals in need. CARING FOR CATS (St. Paul) luckysplace.org GEMINI ROTTWEILER AND MINNESOTA POCKET PET RESCUE caring-for-cats.org [email protected] PITBULL RESCUE mnpocketpetrescue.org 651-407-8485 320-241-1829 gemini.petfinder.org [email protected] All-volunteer, no-kill, non-profit No-kill, non-profit cat rescue. [email protected] Non-profit dedicated to rescuing and shelter for cats and kittens in North 320-598-3087 rehoming small animals. St. Paul, funded 100% by donations. LUV A CHIN JAPANESE CHIN We are dedicated to saving the lives RESCUE (Twin Cities based, CATS MEOW DOGS BARK RESCUE of these misunderstood breeds, and nationwide foster network) MINNESOTA SHELTIE RESCUE kelvarmair.petfinder.com offering them a second chance at a www.luvachinrescue.org mnsheltierescue.org [email protected] forever home. [email protected] [email protected] 651-343-1964 507-641-4428 612-616-7477 Foster-based rescue focused on GREAT DANE RESCUE OF MN & WI Rescuing, rehabilitating, and Finding the best and last home for owner surrenders. gdromn.org rehoming Japanese Chins in need. Shelties in need.
www.thewagazine.com | 27 Zumbrota “Saving the life of one Veterinary animal won’t change Clinic would the world, but the world like to will certainly change welcome for that one animal.” -unknown author Dr. Mike Strecker to Sophie I am proud to be Chloe the team. MINNESOTA’S MEDIA SPOKESPERSON FOR RESCUE DOGS and very Dan Nietz, Mike Strecker, honored to be the voice for all of the dogs that deserve DVM DVM a better life and a 2nd chance. I have helped both buyers and sellers in SE Minnesota since 2004 and look forward to helping you with your next move.
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507-285-1059 www.quarryhillvet.com NEW LOCATION: 2554 Clare Lane NE., Rochester, MN Mon/Wed/Fri: 7:30 am - 5:00 pm Tues: 7:30 am - 5:30 pm Thurs: 7:30 am - 6:30 pm Sat - Sun: Closed
28 | wagazine | FALL 2017 MINNESOTA WISCONSIN COLLIE NORTHWOODS HUMANE SOCIETY RUFF START RESCUE 952-368-PAWS (7297) RESCUE (Wyoming) ruffstartrescue.org Non-profit organization committed mwcr.org northwoodshs.org [email protected] to the rescue of abandoned, abused [email protected] [email protected] 763-355-3981 and stray domestic animals. 612-869-0480 651-982-0240 Dedicated to finding new hope Serving Chisago County and SAFE HAVEN PET RESCUE STEELE COUNTY HUMANE and new homes for Collies in need surrounding communities by caring (Rochester) SOCIETY (Owatonna) of homes. for animals in need and helping them safehavenpetrescue.org steelecountyhumanesociety.org find a home. [email protected] [email protected] MOWER COUNTY HUMANE 507-529-4079 507-451-4512 SOCIETY (Austin) PAWS AND CLAWS HUMANE Committed to finding safe, loving and Foster home based rescue helping mowercountyhumanesociety.org SOCIETY (Rochester) secure homes for lost, abandoned stray and abandoned animals in [email protected] pawsandclaws.org and stray companion animals. greater Steele County. 507-437-9262 [email protected] No-kill shelter staffed entirely by 507-288-7226 SAVE-A-BULL RESCUE TRI-COUNTY HUMANE SOCIETY volunteers. To promote and provide humane saveabullmn.com tricountyhumanesociety.org protection and shelter for abandoned Dedicated to the rescue, [email protected] MORRISON COUNTY ANIMAL or lost companion animals, seek rehabilitation, and re-homing of 320-252-0896 HUMANE SOCIETY (Little Falls) adoptive homes, provide public American Pit Bull Terriers and other We believe in the human/animal mcpets.org education regarding the societal Bull breeds. bond and exist to support Central [email protected] or problem of animal overpopulation, Minn. by practicing and promoting [email protected] promote responsible companion animal SAVE OUR STRAYS quality adoption services and 320-632-0703 care, and advocate the spaying and Petfinder.com education programs. We take in unloved and unwanted neutering of all companion animals. [email protected] animals to place in forever homes. 641-713-2443 WAGS & WHISKERS ANIMAL PAWS=PRECIOUS ANIMALS Finding forever homes for the strays RESCUE OF MN NATIONAL BRITTANY RESCUE AND WORTH SAVING of Mitchell County, Iowa. wagsmn.org ADOPTION NETWORK pawsofjackson.com [email protected] nbran.org [email protected] SECOND CHANCE ANIMAL RESCUE Volunteer 501(c)(3), non-profit [email protected] 507-841-1834 secondchancerescue.org animal rescue organization 605-224-2964 Working together to save as many animals 651-771-5662 dedicated to saving the lives of Rescues, rehabilitates and re-homes as possible in the Jackson County area. Foster-based dog and cat rescue homeless animals and educating Brittanys in need. organization dedicated to rescuing, the community on responsible pet PET HAVEN INC. OF MN caring for and adopting out homeless ownership. NORTHERN LIGHTS GREYHOUND PetHavenMN.org dogs and cats. WASECA COUNTY ANIMAL ADOPTION [email protected] HUMANE SOCIETY NLGA-MN.org 952-831-3825 SECONDHAND HOUNDS wcahs.petfinder.com [email protected] Created in 1952 to rescue, rehome (Minnetonka) [email protected] 763-754-9754 and advocate for companion animals. Secondhandhounds.org 507-201-7287 Dedicated to finding responsible homes for [email protected] 501c3, no-kill organization that retired racing Greyhounds and educating PRAIRIE’S EDGE HUMANE 952-322-7643 helps homeless animals of all types the public about Greyhounds as pets. SOCIETY (Northfield) in numerous counties in South prairiesedgehs.org SHIH TZU RESCUE OF MINNESOTA Central Minn. NORTHSTAR GREAT PYRENEES [email protected] shihtzurescuemn.org RESCUE OF MN 507-664-1035 All-volunteer organization with a WINONA AREA HUMANE SOCIETY northstargreatpyrs.com Serving Rice County. Mission to mission to rescue, rehabilitate, and winonahumanesociety.org [email protected] promote the value of animals rehome Shih Tzus and Shih Tzu mixes. 507-452-3135 612-379-0010 through care and education Dedicated to providing rescue/rehoming, SMALL DOG RESCUE OF breed education and fun activities for RESCUED PETS ARE WONDERFUL MINNESOTA Great Pyrenees and their owners. rpaw.org smalldogsminnesota.org [email protected] [email protected] LOST AND NORTHSTAR SHIH TZU RESCUE 763-757-8204 All-volunteer group committed FOUND PETS facebook.com/NorthStarShihTzuRescue To rescue companion animals and to the rescue, rehabilitation, Report lost and found pets [email protected] find them loving forever homes. and placement of dogs 612-209-4502 20 pounds and under. of Southeast Minnesota: We rescue Shih Tzu and Shih Tzu blend RETRIEVE A GOLDEN OF facebook.com/SEMNLost.Found dogs, evaluate them in foster homes and MINNESOTA (RAGOM) SOUTHWEST METRO ANIMAL then match them to their perfect family. ragom.org RESCUE Report lost and found dogs [email protected] swmetroanimalrescue.org of Minnesota: NORTHWOODS ANIMAL RESCUE 952-946-8070 [email protected] facebook.com/LDoMN SANCTUARY & ADOPTION CENTER Rescuing and re-homing Golden “NARS” (Andover) Retrievers and Golden mixes in MN, northwoodsrescue.org IA, ND, SD and western WI. STOP OVER-POPULATION. SPAY AND NEUTER YOUR PETS
www.thewagazine.com | 29 | HAPPY TAILS
It was a bond that went beyond my phone calls with Dad as he found solace in the memo- ries of his own childhood Golden Retriever, and he looked so forward to Penny’s warm greeting and affection during her weekly visits. My father and Penny were featured in the 2011 national Caring Canines Calendar spon- sored by the AMDA Foundation. AMDA Foundation serves as the research arm of AMDA, whose mission it is to “advance excellence and innovation in the long-term care continuum through research and practice.” The annual calendar includes poignant pictures of pets and their adopted elders from senior centers across the nation. In the calendar picture, with his arm around Penny, my father is singing, “You Are My Sunshine” to her, and he means every word of This Penny is priceless that song. She patiently listened to every off-key By Kathy A. Megyeri note and sat enthralled at numerous renditions of the same tune. But then Dad’s health failed and he entered to reach out for comfort and physical contact. hospice care. Penny and Jan visited regularly, Many studies have proven what all pet lovers and Penny never failed to hop onto Dad’s bed already know: animals heal. Maybe they can’t and cuddle with him while he mumbled memo- cure cancer or halt the progression of Alzheimer’s ries and garbled greetings into her ear. disease, but simply petting an animal causes the And when I couldn’t fly home fast enough human body to release endorphins that help com- to hold Dad’s hand and tell him how much I bat depression and feelings of hopelessness. Some loved him before he lost consciousness, it was animals even have been shown to identify tumors, Penny who laid her muzzle on his chest and predict seizures and anticipate death. attentively listened to his halting breaths. Penny, a Golden Retriever mix, started mak- The final photo of the two of them taken by ing weekly visits to Cedarview Care Center in Jan only days before Dad passed away confirms Owatonna, but she now visits three care centers, the bond between them. It is visual confirmation three senior living facilities, a of the power and comfort home for adults with develop- of these dogs. I left part of mental disabilities, two schools Dad’s estate to the AMDA and the Ronald McDonald Foundation that promotes the Sid sings “You are my Sunshine” to Penny. House in Rochester. value of therapy dogs. Her presence eases the In addition, Jan made for loneliness as people caress me a visual record of Dad and or five years, Penny, a trained therapy dog her and whisper private Penny’s relationship in the form owned by Jan Haycraft of Owatonna, secrets in her ear. She lies “If Penny could have talked, those of a picture book written from Minn., has improved the lives of elders in next to them in bed, and were the words she would have Penny’s point of view called senior centers throughout southern Minnesota. the warmth of her body is used to tell their story because in her “Sid and Me,” and it is one of face, I could see the love she had Penny has been a mood elevator, an entertainer, enough to bring them com- for Sid,” said Penny’s owner Jan my most treasured possessions. an aid in physical therapy and most of all, a fort and ease their pain. It’s a Haycraft. “I was really the lucky one And now, Penny is creating true friend. good day when Penny comes to witness such love on every visit.” the same magic with school- Medical personnel embrace the miraculous to visit. aged youth who are also ben- role animals play with their residents and at- Penny saw my own father regularly until his efitting from all that she offers—unconditional test to the benefit of therapy dogs like Penny. death. During his three years at the Cedarview love, total acceptance, and the joys of bonding These animals have a particular impact with the Care Center, as he coped with declining health, with a furry friend who attentively listens to
disabled and, particularly, dementia patients. she greeted him with the love that he so missed every spoken word and loves us all. Haycraft. Book courtesy Jan courtesyPhoto Kathy Megyeri. Since the dogs can’t talk, it doesn’t matter if the after his wife died. Somehow, Penny instinctively residents have poor language skills. They still knew that Dad was failing during his last weeks Kathy A. Megyeri of Washington D.C., is Sid’s have the ability to communicate, so the animals of life because she jumped on his bed, lay beside daughter, a friend to Jan and Penny and a fan of Fsense their need for affection and their attempts him, and licked his hands. therapy dogs. 30 | wagazine | FALL 2017 GET THE SCOOP|
GET THE SCOOP Sept 23 Minnesota Boxer Rescue Oct 14 Building Bridges: Exploring our 11am–1pm, Chuck & WiggleFest and walk, 11am–3pm, relationship with food, animals and the Don’s, Maple Grove, SEPTEMBER Snail Lake Regional Park, Shoreview, environment. 8–4 pm at St. Catherine’s springerrescue.org, mnboxerrescue.rescuegroups.org University, St. Paul. Guest speakers Gene facebook.com/ES- Sept 3 MNSNAP clinic, 9am, Martin Baur and Leilani Munter. farmaste.org RAUpperMidwest County Humane Society, mchsofmn.org Sept 24 Tellington TTouch seminar, 1–3pm, Minneapolis, Oct 15 American Legion-Sponsored Nov 16 Give to the Sept 8 Pints for Paws, 6pm–9pm, pawsabilitiesmn.com/classes Omelet Breakfast for Prairie’s Edge Max Day Rochester Athletic Club. Benefits Paws & Humane Society. Eagles Club, Northfield. Claws Humane Society. Beer tasting, ap- Sept 26 English Springer Rescue Time TBD, prairiesedgehs.org Nov 18 Holiday Bake Sale for Martin petizers, raffles. Tickets $30 at the Paws America “Meet the Springers,” County Humane Society, 9am, Fleet and and Claws office or at the door. 11am–1pm, Chuck & Don’s, Roseville, Oct 19 Annual Gala Dinner for Humane Farm, Fairmont, mchsofmn.org springerrescue.org, facebook.com/ Society of Goodhue County, 6pm, Red Sept 9 Fall Plant Sale for Martin County ESRAUpperMidwest Wing Hiawatha Golf Club, hsgcpets.org Nov 18 A Night to Paws Gala, a ben- Humane Society, 8am, St. John’s UCC efit for Doberman Rescue Minnesota, Church, Fairmont, mchsofmn.org Sept 30 Dogs & More: The Great Oct 29 Dogtober Fest, presented by dobermanrescueminnesota.com Adoption Event, 11am–2pm, Minnesota Boxer Rescue and Lift Bridge Sept 10 Goldzilla, Golden Retriever History Center of Olmsted County, Brewing Company, Stillwater, mnboxer- Nov 27 MNSNAP clinic, 9am, Martin Fun Fair & Walk for Rescue, 8:30am– bacbunleashed.com/events. See p. 26. rescue.rescuegroups.org County Humane Society, mchsofmn.org 2pm, Long Lake Park, New Brighton, goldzilla.ragom.org OCTOBER NOVEMBER DECEMBER
Sept 10 Best Friends Animal Society Oct 1 Blessing of the Animals. Nov 3 Paw-Purr-Azzi Glitter Ball, Dec 2 Holiday Craft Sale and Boutique Strut Your Mutt annual fundraising dog 1:30–3 pm, Assisi Heights. Bring your featuring Hannah Shaw, the Kitten Lady. for Feline Rescue, 593 Fairview Avenue walk, 5K run and festival, 8am–1pm, pet for a blessing and meet service dog A fundraiser supporting Feline Rescue. North, St. Paul, felinerescue.org St. Louis Park, strutyourmutt.org Milo and his companion Sharon French. Doubletree Park Place Hotel, St. Louis rochesterfranciscan.org. See p. 26. Park, felinerescue.org/glitterball Dec 9 English Springer Rescue America Sept 16 & 17 Rochester MN Kennel “Meet the Springers,” 11am–1pm, Club Annual All Breed Shows, Obedience Oct 1 Springer and Springer Wannabe Nov 4 English Springer Rescue America Chuck & Don’s, Lakeville, springerrescue. Trials & Rally Trials, Olmsted County Fair- Picnic, 11am–3pm, Token Creek Park, “Meet the Springers,” org, facebook.com/ESRAUpperMidwest grounds, rochestermnkennelclub.com Madison, Wis. Lunch, raffle, rescue store, doggie games. Meet Springers Sept 16 & 17 Annual Safe Haven and Springer lovers. Proceeds benefit INDEX TO ADVERTISERS Pet Rescue rummage sale, Saturday English Springer Rescue America. Con- Affiliated Emergency Veterinary Service...... 21 7am–4pm, Sunday 8am–2pm, Bldg. tact Kris Specht at 608-592-2068 or The Bluffs Pet Clinic of Red Wing...... 12 35 Olmsted County Fairgrounds, [email protected] Chocolate Shoppe...... 21 507-259-6568 Coldwell Banker Burnet, Shawn Buryska...... 21 Oct 10 English Springer Rescue America Counselor Realty of Rochester, Alissa Adamson...... 28 Sept 16 & 17 Pets & Pirates weekend, “Meet the Springers,” 11am–1pm, Edina Realty...... BC Minnesota Renaissance Festival, Chuck & Don’s, Savage, springerrescue. Five West Kitchen + Bar...... 25 Shakopee. Pet owners and their furry org, facebook.com/ESRAUpperMidwest Heritage Pet Hospital...... 25 companions are invited to learn more Irie Kennels...... 7 about pet training, safety, all-natural Oct 13 Annual Fall Auction for Paws Leashes & Leads Equine Park at Montgomery Meadows...... 12 dog food, adoption, and new products & Claws Humane Society. Rochester Meadow View Veterinary Clinic, LLC...... 4 from over 20 pet and pirate related International Event Center. Silent Mr. Sandless Wood Floor Refinishing...... 4 vendors. renaissancefest.com auction begins at 5:30 and live auc- Nolting Dental Care...... 25 tion at 8pm. Many baskets and fun Northern Valley Animal Clinic...... 7 Sept 17 Walk for the Animals for Mar- items. Food and live music by Colt 45. Paws Abilities Dog Training...... 11 tin County Humane Society, 2pm, Cedar Tickets are $20 and include a light meal. Quarry Hill Park Animal Hospital ...... 28 Creek Park, Fairmont, mchsofmn.org pawsandclaws.org Rochester Feed and Country Store...... IFC Rochester International Airport...... 15 Sept 23 New Leash on Life 5K run/ Oct 14 Bow Wow Film Festival, spon- VCA Cascade Animal Medical Center & Inn...... 24
Photo courtesy Kathy Megyeri. Book courtesy Jan Haycraft. Book courtesy Jan courtesyPhoto Kathy Megyeri. 3K walk. Benefits Zumbro Valley Mental sored by Prairie’s Edge Humane Society, White Pines Pet Hospice...... 11 Health Center and Camp Companion. Village Theatre in Faribault. Doors Open Zumbrota Veterinary Clinic...... 28 Run or walk with your dog. zvhc.org at 6pm, prairiesedgehs.org
www.thewagazine.com | 31 We know whatHome is all about
Trina Sylvia Natalia Eric James
Trina Solano, REALTOR®, CNHS, GRI, SRES Natalia Baker, Realtor James Miller , Realtor with Black Lab, Tar with Chocolate Lab, Stella with German Shorthair Pointer- Deuce 507-261-4030 507-884-7874 507-259-6633 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] www.trinasolano.edinarealty.com www.edinarealty.com/Natalia-baker-realtor www.jamesmiller.edinarealty.com
Sylvia Rogers, REALTOR® Eric Robinson of Team Robinson CRS, GRI, ABR, CNHS, ASP, SRS (Chayla Robinson, Matt Narveson not pictured) with Collie mix, Sophie and Australian Cattle Dog, Willie with Yellow Lab, Ally 507-254-1247 507-398-2300 [email protected] [email protected] www.SylviaRogers.com www.teamrobinson.com
1301 Salem Road SW, Rochester, MN 55902 32 | wagazine | FALL 2017