Return to flip book view

Berkshireanimalworlddecemberjanuaryissue

Page 1

™QR Code inside foR Benson’s Pet CenteR, Page 2Shop Local, Adopt Local, Read LocalThe Real Premier Tri-state Monthly All Pet AniMagazine™Berkshire MountainHaPpY HowLidAySFrOmBerKshiRe AniMal WoRld!Animal WorldDecember, 2024/January, 2025

Page 2

518-766-27073541 US Route 20, Nassau, NYOpen Mon-Fri: 9-6, Saturday: 9-2Does your pet nd it difcult to takemedications? Do you have to struggle with your pet everytime?LIQUID, GELS & TREATSfor an easier way to give your pets their medication *Save $5.00 NOW!* $15.00 Mininum Purchase. New Prescriptions OnlyWE TURN YOUR PETS’ MEDS INTO FLAVOREDAsk our Pharmacy about llingall your pets’ prescriptionsH e a lt H & W e l l n e s s C e n t e rLEARN MORE ABOUT COMPOUNDING AND HOW IT CAN HELP YOUNassau Pharmacy2125 Humane Society Rd, Hudson, NY 12534 (518) 828-6044 Open daily Tuesday - Saturday 11:30 - 4 https://cghs.org/ Boarding and Daycare remain the same and the food bank is open 7 days a week. Please call with any questions.CrazyHorseLadyMa@gmail.comFarm ChoresBarn CleanoutsFoal WatchEquine Exercise Pet SittingPersonal AssistantHousekeepingSeasoned ExperienceSolid ReferencesOllie, pictured with CGHS/SPCA Kennel Assistant Supervisor Kyle Miller, is a year-old American Staf-fordshire Terrier mix that was surrendered to us due to landlord issues. He’s incredibly playful and absolutely loves his toys - the squeakier the better! Ollie is very smart and loves showing off all of his tricks. He’s great with other animals and sturdy kids would be best for him!

Page 3

Paws to ReectSpotlight On–Pets ad the Holidays 4Spotlight On–Dogs and Acid Reux 5Cat’s Meow-This Side of Purradise 6 Horse Corral-The Urban Carriage Trade 8 Adoptables 1, 7, 8Wildlife Wonders-How Wildlife Handle Winter 9Natural Fun Facts 10Guide To Our Local Shelters 10CGHS-Dogs and Winter 11Animalectory 12, 13Cat’s Meow-Bonding with Your Cat 13Rescue Leagues 14Dog Wags-Monthly Breed– Cocker Spaniel 15Monthly Dog & Cat Pawoscope 15Founder: Gayle SchechtmanEditor: Jane NicoleWriters: Iris BassColleen CarpenterLinda ClaytonDr. Melody R. Conklin Dr. Debra Primovicfrom www.petplace.comAlex ValverdeBerkshire Animal WorldBerkshiremountainanimalworld@gmail.comCRATE OF CONTENTS3Front Photo Credit:P.O. Box 1842Lenox, MA 01240anlife@aol.com• Columbia Green Humane Society • Berkshire Humane Society• Mohawk Hudson Humane Society • Out of the Pits and so much more!Check out our Canine Rescue League DirectoryBark!Bark!www.berkshiremountainanimalworld.comTIMELY ADOPTABLES ALL AROUND!Give your pets a hug for me!! GayleKarsten Winegeart from Austin Texas, Professional Photographer, https://www.instagram.com/karsten116/https://unsplash.comMonth: DECEMBER• National Cat Lovers’ Month• Safe Toys and Gifts Month• Christmas Bird Count Week - December 14, 2024 - January 5, 2025 Holidays and Awareness Days• December 2 | National Mutt Day• December 3 | Giving Tuesday • December 4 | World Wildlife Conservation Day • December 5 | Celebrate Shelter Pets Day (rst Thursday after Thanksgiving)• December 9 | International Day of Veterinary Medicine • December 10 | International Animal Rights Day • December 13 | National Day of the Horse • December 25 | Christmas Day • December 27 | Visit the Zoo Day • December 31 | New Year’s EveBerkshire Mountain Animal World™ 2018-2025. All rights reserved. Berkshire Mountain Animal World™ is copyrighted and cannot be reproduced, rewritten, or pho-tocopied without permission of the publisher. Distribution is FREE in all of Berkshire County and areas in Pioneer Valley, Massa-chusetts, Northwest Hills, Connecticut, Co-lumbia/Rensselaer Counties in New York and the border towns of Vermont. Advertising rates are based on monthly dis-tribution. Berkshire Mountain Animal World Publication™ is not responsible for adver-tising claims. The advertiser is SOLELY re-sponsible for content. Berkshire Mountain Animal World™ re-serves the right to refuse any advertising for any reason. Berkshire Mountain Animal World™ is not responsible for errors in content made by any writers. Berkshire Mountain Animal World™ does not endorse what is printed.Year 7, Edition 76

Page 4

4SPOTLIGHT Pets & The Holidays While holidays bring good times and cheer for many, they also bring a unique set of circumstances for companion animals. Here are special issues for you to consider in keeping your pets safe and happy year-round:ANIMALS AS GIFTS The holidays are a popular time for welcoming a new furry friend into your family. There may not be a greater gift for homeless animals than to open your heart and home to them. As they do year-round, animal shelters have thousands of wonderful companions available for adoption. It is generally not a good idea to bring a new pet home during the holidays. Holidays are times of increased activity, extra people, decorations, parties, gifts, and excess food. With everything happening during a holiday, pets can become lost in the normal chaos and become frightened at a time when they are already on edge about coming to a new home. But whether you are considering a new friend for you or someone else, remember that choosing an animal is a big decision. Instead of bringing home an animal right away, consider putting together and wrapping an “adoption kit.” Fill a box with toys, a bed, a leash, a collar, food, treats and a gift certi-cate for adoption fees at your local shelter. Then, make an event of visiting the shelter to nd your next best friend.COSTUMES Pet costumes at Halloween, Christmas and other holidays are one of the latest fads. Who can resist dressing up a pet in those cute little witch capes or reindeer antlers? Before you give in to this fad, make sure your pet can move freely and won’t stumble over a costume that hangs to the ground. And never tie anything around his neck that can choke and strangle him. Opt for a fancy collar instead. Let your pet be the judge. If he struggles and is uncomfortable, then maybe it would be best to let him stay dressed as a Corgi rather than a ghost!DECORATIONSHolidays bring special cards, gifts decorated with ribbons, tinsel or yarn, and special decorations like Christmas trees. Unfortunately, animals appreciate these items, as well — and many of them can cause serious damage.CHRISTMAS TREES• Anchor trees securely. Climbing cats and dogs with wagging tails can knock over your tree.• Hang breakable, glass ornaments well out of reach. The small glass and metal fastenings can be stepped on or even swallowed by your pet.• Keep tinsel, ribbons and garland out of pets’ reach, especially cats that are intrigued by them. These can become lodged in their intestines, cause obstructions and lead to surgery or death.• Clean up pine needles frequently. They can be toxic when eaten by your pet.• Prevent your pet from drinking water in the tree stand if you have added preservative chemicals. These can be toxic to pets. Also, stagnant water can contain bacteria, which may lead to vomiting and diarrhea if ingested.HOLIDAY HOUSE PLANTSAlthough they add a warm touch, many plants can harm your pets. Keep these potentially dangerous bloomers well out of reach.• Lilies can be deadly to cats, and many types can cause cats to have kidney failure.• Poinsettias, although not as toxic as people often think, can upset your pet’s digestive system.• Mistletoe, especially the berries, is highly toxic, can cause stomach upset and has the potential to cause fatal heart problems.• Holly can cause vomiting, diarrhea, nausea and lethargy.• Certain types of ivy, such as English ivy, can also cause severe harm.• Amaryllis can cause vomiting and diarrhea.• Hibiscus can cause diarrhea.LIGHTS, CANDLES AND FRAGRANCE• Keep lights and extension cords safely secured or covered to deter chewing, which can lead to electric shock or even electrocution. Better yet, invest in pet-proof extension cords, or spray with products such as Bitter Apple or Chew Stop.• Candles can be fragrant and enticing to pets. But they can be a re hazard if knocked over by an exu-berant pet, and the fumes can be harmful to birds.• Liquid potpourri and sachets, popular during the holidays, can be very dangerous. Exposure can cause skin or oral damage to your pet and may cause illness or death.FOOD HAZARDS One way to reduce this temptation is to feed your pet before guests arrive, so your pet will be less likely to beg and steal food. Inform your guests of the house rules regarding your pet, such as not feeding him scraps from the table. Also, if your guests smoke, be extra vigilant and keep nicotine and alcohol out of your pet’s reach. These can be highly toxic — even deadly!Below are some foods that can be harmful to your pet on holidays and year-round:• Rich, fatty foods, such as turkey skins or gravy can cause pancreatitis, an inammation of a digestive gland, and can be very painful and serious, leading to hospitalization. Stomach upset, vomiting, and diarrhea can occur if pets consume these items. Limit table scraps, and let your guests know as well.• Any kind of bone can tear or obstruct your pet’s intestinal tract. Make certain all bones are disposed of properly. Poultry bones can be especially dangerous or even fatal to animals.• Found in abundance in turkey stufng, onions are toxic and can destroy a dog’s red blood cells, leading to anemia. Foods containing high amounts of onion powder should also be avoided.• Grapes and raisins are beautiful to look at but harmful to pets. Keep that cornucopia lled with fresh fruits out of reach. Grapes especially contain toxins that can cause kidney failure.• Chocolate — especially baking chocolate — can actually kill your dog, so keep all such goodies well out of reach. Chocolate can affect the nervous system and cause urinary system and heart muscle dam-age in your pet. It also contains theobromine, which can be especial-ly harmful to dogs if ingested in large quantities.• Coffee is also dangerous to animals. Watch out for grounds and whole beans.• Nicotine is a stimulant that can increase the heart rate leading to collapse, and in the worst case, even death.• Alcoholic beverages should be kept away from animals year-round.• Watch the string that ties up the turkey or roast, as well as the little red “pop-up” thermometers. Dogs and cats often eat these tasty things, causing intestinal blockage. In addition, keep all leftover food out of reach in a closed con-tainer. Any garbage can contain toxins such as e-coli that can affect your pet’s organs. This includes leftover tinfoil that, when chewed, can obstruct your pet’s intestinal tract. If you suspect your pet has gotten into a potentially poisonous substance, call your veterinarian immediately! Have the telephone number to your local emergency animal hospital readily available, as well as the number for the national animal poison control center.MAKE THE HOLIDAYS SPECIAL FOR YOUR PETProvide your pet some extra love and attention to let them know they’re not forgotten during busy holiday times.• Take your dog for an extra walk — it’ll help both you and your pet relieve some of that holiday stress.• Keep a supply of pet treats handy and reach for one before you’re tempted to toss your pet that little bite of “people” food.• Perhaps your dog would like a new bed, or your cat a new scratch-ing post. Birds love fun items for the cage. Get creative!• Enjoy some extra snuggle time.Whichever treat or special activity you choose, you’ll be enhancing the bond you share — and your pet will love it!STRESSHolidays can bring stress to all of us, and pets are no exception. When routines are disrupted and new activities occur, your pet may be the rst to notice. Follow these tips to make the holidays and other events more relaxing for everyone, including your companion animals.• Animals can get stressed with the hustle and bustle of holiday guests. Therefore, it’s best to simply keep your pets indoors and pro-vide them with a safe, quiet, escape-proof room where they can get away from the energy and excitement. Remember to provide plenty of food and water, and let your pet catch up on some Zs!• Holiday guests may not know your pets’ routines. If your guests smoke, make sure they are careful with their cigarettes. Also, let them know in advance whether they are allowed to give treats to your animals.• As your holiday visitors come and go, there will be many escape opportunities for your pets. Make sure that your pets always wear current identication tags, consider having your pets microchipped if you haven’t already – and watch the door!• Always keep your veterinarian’s number handy, along with the number of the animal poison control center, in case of emergency.ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center Phone Number: (888) 426-4435

Page 5

5Dog BarksCan Dogs Get Acid Reux? If you’ve ever suffered from acid reux, you know just how uncomfortable it can be. The con-dition can interfere with your daily activities and make meals you used to love into unenjoyable experiences. Unfortunately, dogs are also susceptible to acid reux and can suffer from the same symptoms. But thankfully, there are a few things you can do to help your four-legged friend feel better. Read on to learn more about what acid reux is, the symptoms it causes, and how you can help your dog deal with it.What Is Acid Reux in Dogs? Acid reux, also known as gastroesophageal reux, is a condition that occurs when the acid and enzymes that help the stomach and intestines break down food move into your dog’s esophagus. If left untreated, the acids can wear away at the lining of your dog’s esophagus, which is uncomfort-able and can lead to ulcers.Acid reux is common in dogs of all ages. But it’s especially common in younger dogs, as their esophageal sphincter (the opening at the base of the esophagus) is underdeveloped. It’s also preva-lent in brachycephalic dog breeds, like Pugs and English Bulldogs, because of their shorter esopha-guses.What Causes Dog Acid Reux?Acid reux is primarily caused by your dog’s stomach acids making their way into their esophagus, which eats away at the protective lining. There are many reasons why stomach acids can reach your dog’s esophagus, so it’s always best to consult with your veterinarian to determine the root cause. Some common causes of acid reux include:• Anesthesia: If your dog has recently had surgery, the anesthesia relaxes the esophageal sphincter which can lead to increased stomach acid in their esophagus.• Allergies: If your dog is allergic to an ingredient in their food, their body might be reacting with excess stomach acids to break the food down.• Chronic vomiting: Some medications or health conditions can cause frequent vomiting which can lead to acid reux.• Overproduction of stomach acid: There are many things that can lead to excessive stomach acid, including hernias, stress, or too much fat in your dog’s food.Symptoms of Canine Acid ReuxBecause canine acid reux is so common, it’s important to know the symptoms so you can get your dog treatment right away. Contact your veterinarian as soon as possible if you notice any of the following symptoms:• Frequent burping, gagging, or mild vomiting after meals• Bad breath• Wheezing• Loss of appetite• Weight loss• Whining, howling, or other signs of discomfort after eating• Lethargy after meals• Fever• Excessive salivating6 Tips to Relieve Your Dog’s Acid Reux DiscomfortThe good news is that acid reux isn’t life-threatening, and there are several things you can do to help your pup feel better. Here are our top 6 tips for relieving your dog’s acid reux discomfort:Feed Your Dog a Balanced DietIn many cases, your dog’s food can agitate acid reux symptoms, especially foods that are rich in fats and preservatives. Feeding your dog a balanced diet that meets all of their nutritional require-ments lays the best foundation for their overall health.Your veterinarian will be able to help you create a diet plan that’s tailored to your dog’s age, breed, and specic health needs. The following foods are recommended for dogs with acid reux, as they are easy to digest and nutrient-dense:• 100% pumpkin puree• Baked sweet potato• Rice• Banana• Bone broth• Fish• TurkeyAvoid Late-Night Meals Acid reux is often caused by your dog’s esophageal sphinc-ter relaxing, which lets in more stomach acid and makes your pup more prone to vomiting. At night, the esophageal sphincter naturally relaxes, so late-night mealtimes make your dog more susceptible to acid reux discomfort. It’s also helpful to elevate your dog’s head with a pillow or the side of their bed while they’re sleeping. Horizontal sleeping makes it easier for stomach acids to leak into the esophagus.Feed Your Dog Smaller, More Frequent Meals Instead of feeding your dog two large meals a day, consider splitting their daily food into several smaller meals that can be fed throughout the day. Large meals put more strain on your dog’s digestive system than smaller meals, so they’re more likely to produce excess stomach acids. In addition, bile is usually created on an empty stomach, so spreading your dog’s meals throughout the day will keep food in their stomach for longer.Feed Your Dog Softer Foods Hard kibbles are difcult for your dog to digest, which means even more stomach acid has to be produced to break down the food. The softer the food, the easier it is on your dog’s digestive system. For this reason, wet food or fresh food are great options for dogs with acid reux. These foods are easier to digest, and they tend to be more palatable, which is great for dogs with waning appetites.Give Probiotic and Prebiotic Supplements Many canine digestive issues lead back to an unbalanced gut microbiome. Probiotic and prebiotic supplements can help correct this imbalance, boost the immune system, promote good digestion, and support your dog’s overall health. For acid reux, probiotics and prebiotics that target gut health can help balance your dog’s stomach acid production, lowering their chances of acid reux.Add Ginger to Your Dog’s Food Ginger is great for treating nausea and upset stomach in your pup, both of which can lead to acid reux discomfort. The gingerol and shogaol compounds inside ginger help to stimulate your dog’s production of saliva and bile, which helps them to digest their food more quickly and easily. It also helps reduce bloat and decreases your dog’s need to burp.Can You Prevent Acid Reux in Dogs?While acid reux is common in dogs, it’s easily treatable and even preventable with the right diet and lifestyle. The most im-portant thing you can do for your dog is to feed them a healthy, balanced diet and take them for regular veterinary checkups. This will aid in the maintenance of your dog’s digestive health while lowering their risk of acid reux.If you’ve followed the tips in this article and your dog is still suffering from acid reux, it’s important to contact your veteri-narian. They’ll be able to conduct a thorough physical examina-tion and run diagnostic tests to determine the cause of your dog’s symptoms.

Page 6

6This Side of Purradiseby Iris Bass • SALON – 75 YEARS COMBINED EXPERIENCE 2 CERTIFIED PET AESTHETICIANS ON STAFF COMFORT GROOMS A SPECIALTY CAT GROOMING AVAILABLE• PLAYCARE – STAFFED WITH CERTIFIED PROFESSIONALS OPEN 5 DAYS/WEEK TO APPROVED DOGS• TRAINING – 6 WEEK SESSIONS RUN CONTINUOUSLY THROUGH THE YEAR EARLY PUPPY; BEGINNER/INTERMEDIATE &ADVANCED OBEDIENCE AND MORE!Offering Salon Services, Playcare and Training for THE TRI-STATE AREA’S PETSFor more information on our services, please see our website: www.bowmeowregency.comCheck us out on FacebookContact us at 413-229-0035 or by email at honor@bowmeowregency.com Russell Copyright © 2024 Berkshire Humane SocietyFARM SANCTUARIES (In our region)• Chatham Animal HavenP.O. Box 49, Chatham , NY 12037518-218-6885Chathamanimalhaven@gmail.comhttp://chathamanimalhaven.org/• Berkshire Farm Sanctuary34 West Main Rd., Peru, MA 01235413-344-7433info@berkshirefarmsanctuary.orghttps://berkshirefarmsanctuary.org• Farm Sanctuary3150 Aikens Rd, Watkins Glen, NY 14891607-583-2225, experience@farmsanctuary.orghttps://www.farmsanctuary.org• Safe Haven Farm Sanctuary254 Gardner Hollow Rd, Poughquag, NY 12570845-724-5138 to schedule a visitsafehavenfarmsanctuary@gmail.comhttps://safehavenfarmsanctuary.org• Woodstock Farm Sanctuary2 Rescue Rd, High Falls, NY 12440845-247-5700 info@woodstocksanctuary.orghttps://woodstocksanctuary.org/Ready to Roll Black-and-white tuxedo cat Russell, just three years old (29 in human years), was found as a stray but shows signs of having once had a home. He needs a new one now, and is rarin’ to go.Described by Berkshire Humane Society as a “rough and tumble” boy who needs playtime and perhaps a companionable second cat (no children, though) to put his high energy to positive use, Russell would benet from living—strictly indoors—with an adult who is willing to work with him to learn what is fun vs what is going too far. His education could take any number of forms. A variety of sturdy toys tossed to him to catch or chase, would be a start. Your going up and down stairs or walking around in your home—and encouraging him to trot along with you—could be another way to discharge his energy. Yet a third, less physical, entertainment could be to hang a bird feeder outside a secure window, to give him some eye candy. Consider what surfaces he can safely climb/jump onto (my cats have long loved scaling my tall bookcases), perhaps providing him with a cat tree that he can scratch and that has carpeted surfaces to sleep on. Pay attention to what else may calm him down—soft music, maybe? Use a consistent word or sound to say, and mean, no/don’t. For my cats, it is a sharp “Uh!”—which they know means to immedi-ately stop what they are doing or about to do.. This leads me to timeouts. My rst cat, years ago, sometimes needed those if he became overstimulated. If he becomes too rough, immediately placing Russell in a quiet room for a while—with access to a litter box, water/food, and a favorite toy or two—would be a means of teaching him when and how he needs to tone down his intensity. Even just leaving him a large open carton to withdraw to if he feels overwhelmed could be a boon. The goal is to interact with him when you are both feeling comfortable, but giving both him and yourself options to quickly apply the brakes, if needed. When Russell displays behaviors you want to encourage, praise him, maybe give him a treat or some snuggle time together. And check that your home is not bombarding him with bright lights, loud music, high trafc/activity, or other stressors (you might feel better for it, too). Russell may outgrow some of his high-octane energy, but he needs your assistance now during his most active (and adaptable) formative years. Are you up to the task? Once you get to know each other, I bet you’ll have a ball together! Iris Bass, coauthor of the Cat Lover’s Daily Companion, shares her Lee home with four shelter cats. Please contact Berkshire Humane Society’s main shelter at 214 Barker Road, Pittseld, MA, 413-447-7878. Conrm its hours before heading over, or check out https//:berkshirehumane.org to read more about Russell or the other cats currently available for adoption there or at Purradise, 301 Stockbridge Road, Great Bar-rington, MA, 413-717-4244. Purradise is open for both adoptions and boarding. Please respect any COVID-19 protocols that may be in place

Page 7

7Berkshire Humane Society214 Barker Rd, , Pittseld, MA 01201Phone: (413) 447-7878, Berkshirehumane.org650 ROUTE 295, OLD CHATHAM WOODHILLVETCLINIC.COMWood HillVeterinary ClinicOPEN 6 DAYS A WEEK518-392-6224Like us on Facebook!http://www.taizeshepherdkennel.com/125 Humane Society Rd, Hudson, NY 12534 (518) 828-6044 Open daily Tuesday - Saturday 11:30 - 4 https://cghs.org/ Boarding and Daycare remain the same and the food bank is open 7 days a week. Honey is a three-year-old Cane Corso/Mix female. She is beautiful and large! Please call with any questions.Say hello to Machiavelli! Machi is a high-oc-tane 1-year-old Siberian husky/shepherd mix who loves to play! He would make an excellent run-ning buddy and hiking companion. Machi settles nicely at home with his people once his exercise needs are met. He needs a home without chil-dren though, as he can be exuberant with how he shows affection. Machi nds cats to be just TOO much fun to chase, so a home without them is best. He is very food motivated, and learning new things is a breeze for him. If he sounds like a good t for you and your family, please call Berkshire Humane Society’s kennel staff at (413) 447-7878 ext. 126 to nd out more about how to adopt him!Say hello to Moose! Moose is a 2.5-year-old Shep-herd mix who is who is a sweet boy with a comical personality. Unfortunately, he wasn’t getting along with the other dog in his prior home so now he’ll need a new home where he’ll be the only pet. Some of Moose’s favorite activities include going on walks, and doing “zoomies” with a tennis ball. If he doesn’t receive the proper amount of exercise, he’ll nd his own ways to amuse himself. Moose is fully house-trained and could live in a home with children aged 10+. He can be a tad reactive to other dogs while out on his walks, but Berkshire Humane So-ciety’s kennel staff have been working with him. If you think Moose may be a good t for your family, please reach out to the kennel staff at (413)-447-7878 ext. 126 for more information on how to meet him and potentially take him home.

Page 8

8Horse Corral Berkshire Humane Society214 Barker Rd, Pittseld, MA 01201Phone: (413) 447-7878, Berkshirehumane.orgBerkshire Humane Society214 Barker Rd, , Pittseld, MA 01201Phone: (413) 447-7878, Berkshirehumane.orgFun for Humans, Cruel for Horses – The Urban Carriage TradeBy Alex Valverde, Equine Advocates Communications Manager Picture this – A calm snowy day lled with winter activ-ities – Sled-ding, building snowmen, and a stroll with hot choco-late in hand. Maybe you even imagined a horse-drawn carriage ride through a city park. This is a common activity during the holiday season, but not without harm to the main element of the activity – The carriage horse. “The urban carriage horse trade is cruel and inhumane for many reasons,” says Susan Wagner, president of Equine Advocates. “We have rescued former carriage horses from New York and Philadelphia. All of them had permanent injuries as a result of pounding the pavement on hard city streets and having to pull heavy carriages loaded with tourists.” In New York City, horses work up to nine hours a day and live under conditions that are unnatural for them. This is dangerous and has led to countless cases of working horses dying because of their job. The case of a New York City carriage horse named Ryder who collapsed in heavy trafc going to the Lincoln Tunnel in 2022 made international head-lines and prompted outcry about the poor conditions these horses endure. Ryder passed away months after this incident and his former handler was arrested. Horses are also ight animals, which poses a risk when they’re forced to walk among heavily congested vehicle and pedestrian trafc. When these horses become injured or can no longer work and generate prots for their owners, many are scrapped for slaughter. For these reasons, we would like to see the end of the urban carriage horse trade and the hors-es moved to accredited sanctuaries or other safe retirement homes. We also would like to see major cities start using electric carriages as a humane replacement for this activity. “Many cities around the world have transitioned from using horse-drawn carriages to electric horseless carriages with great success,” said Wagner. “Compassionate and respon-sible tourism has become a growing global trend where many tourists no longer want to support businesses where horses are used, abused and exploited for money.” When it comes to horses driven for pleasure on a smaller scale, such as carriage rentals for seasonal and special events, like weddings, our organization doesn’t take issue with the activity as long as the horses receive proper care. “A problem arises when you are depending on these animals to generate prots, and that is true with horses used in many kinds of businesses and sports,” says Wagner. “There are some small horse businesses where the animals do receive good care, but then what happens to them when they can no longer perform? I think people need to do their research to make sure that they are not supporting business-es that send their horses to slaughter.” If you choose to participate in a horse-drawn carriage ac-tivity, we advise you to ask the company or the driver these questions: How many hours a day does your horse work? What daily care do they receive? When they retire, where do they go? If you’re not satised with the answers or the person or company you ask refuses to answer, don’t go on the car-riage ride or rent with the company. Our fun shouldn’t be at the expense of a wonderful animal’s life. Let’s ensure that all creatures, human and animal, have a safe and happy holiday season.Do you know what a group of ferrets is called? A business! Coco is a 6-year-old spayed female sable ferret who was surrendered to Berkshire Humane Society in a business of nine ferrets because their person lost their pet-friendly housing.All nine were well cared for, socialized and friendly. Coco is a lovable girl who is very sweet and social. She must be adopted with her housemate Nibbler, a 7-year-old neutered grey and white male.They’re looking for a “retirement home” where they can en-joy the rest of their lives. Because Nibbler is 7 years old, the pair qualies for a waiver of their adoption fees to celebrate Adopt a Senior Pet Month.If you’re looking for a lovely pair of ferrets please ll out a small animal adoption application and speak directly to the small animal staff at Berkshire Humane Society (413)-447-7878 ext. 124.

Page 9

9 The winter cold might have you concerned for wildlife. Don’t worry; wild-life in Massachusetts have adapted to survive cold temperatures, scarce food supplies, and deep snow. The winter cold might have you worried for wildlife, wondering where they go or how they nd food in harsh conditions. Wildlife in New England have survived cold winters for many thousands of years, with a host of different adaptations to survive cold temperatures, scarce food supplies, and deep snow. It’s important to remember wild animals have survived over time without the help of people and will continue to do so. Although most people who feed wildlife have good intentions, they may not realize providing food for wildlife often does more harm than good by disrupting natural behaviors. Next time you think you should interfere to “help” wildlife in the cold, rest assured that sh and wildlife are well suited to naturally cope with Massachusetts winters using some of the following techniques. Fattening up: In fall, many animals go on a feeding frenzy, fattening up in preparation for the cold winter weather; acorns, beech nuts, and other fatty foods will be consumed by bears, squirrels, deer, and chipmunks. Seals and other marine mammals have blubber to protect them in the cold ocean. A solid layer of fat also protects ducks and geese from cold. Finding food: The animals that are active and on the move during winter need to keep on eating; coyotes, shers, and bobcats, as well as hawks and owls, will hunt for food or scavenge on carcasses of dead animals. Deer and moose undergo a change in their digestive system to feed on twigs, buds, and bark. They, as well as turkeys, will dig through the snow looking for nuts and acorns from the previous fall. Chickadees, woodpeckers, sparrows, and nches inspect the ground and crevices in tree bark for overwintering insects, seeds, and lichens. Staying warm: Mammals grow a thick, dense winter coat to cope with cold temperatures. Coyotes and raccoons appear to be much larger in winter due to their thick winter coats. Aquatic mammals like otter, beaver, mink, and muskrat have a double layer coat with extremely dense ne hairs near the body, protected by the visible longer guard hairs. These animals waterproof their fur by regularly rubbing body oils on the fur—allowing water to slide off instead of soaking in. The winter coats of deer and moose have hollow hairs, which trap air, adding a layer of insu-lation. You can see its effectiveness when you see snowfall building up on their backs instead of melting. Birds will uff their feathers out more, trapping air which acts as insulation, much like a down jacket. Ducks and geese not only have down feathers to protect them, they too rub oils on their feathers to keep water sliding off their back instead of soaking in close to their body. Conserving energy: Deer will limit their travels to conserve energy and fat reserves. They naturally seek out areas near food and water with tree cover, which offers shallower snow, milder temperatures, and less wind. Because sh are cold-blooded, they don’t have to worry about gen-erating heat or staying warm. Fish do slow down in winter and nd habitat that doesn’t require them to swim hard or move fast. The two main concerns for sh in the winter are rapid changes in temperature and running out of oxygen. Fish can’t regulate their body temperature like mammals, so if the temperature rises or drops too quickly, they can suffer mortality. Additionally, thick ice and heavy snow cover can block sunlight from reaching water, decreasing oxygen levels and causing a natural winter sh kill. Hibernating and sleeping: Bears typically enter their winter dens between November and mid-December, and exit between March and April. Bears commonly den under brush piles, in mountain laurel bushes, or under fallen trees or rocks. The snow cover acts as another layer of cold protection. If food is available, bears that are not pregnant may remain active throughout the winter. Frogs, turtles, and other reptiles and amphibians will burrow into the pond mud—they may still “freeze” but have the ability to thaw out for the spring. Woodchucks are “true” hibernators, meaning their heartbeat slows and their body temperature lowers, which conserves energy as they slowly burn through their fat in the long months of winter. Skunks will sleep through much of the winter, but when temperatures go above freezing, they may wake up and move about looking for food. Tunneling in: Ruffed grouse will tunnel into the snow during the night, making their own shelter to stay warm. Mice, voles, and other small mammals will create tunnel passages through the snow, serving several purposes—insulation from cold, escaping detection from predators, and feeding on grasses and seeds from the past year’s growing season. Defying the ice: In fall, beavers cut down trees to sink a large pile of branches in the water as their winter food pantry. Their iced-over lodge made of sticks, mud, and rocks have only an underwater entrance, providing protection against predators. When it’s time to eat, beavers slip into the water, swim over to the “pantry” and bring back branches and twigs, peeling and eating the bark with their sharp teeth and munching on twigs. https://www.mass.gov/orgs/division-of-sheries-and-wildlifeWildlife Wonders-How Wildlife Handle Winter

Page 10

10ReliableReliablePet Sitting Pet Sitting CompanyCompanyServing Berkshire County since 1997PET SITTING DOG WALKINGVeterinarian RecommendedP.O. Box 232, Pittseld, MA 01202413.329.5127mhyattreliablepetsitting@gmail.com25Natural Fun FactsDid you know that . . .Some Dangerous Foodsfor dogs and cats are . . . Bold, healthy, well adjusted Goldendoodle and German Kleinpudel pups available now.Call or text Susan at (413) 717- 9317 BridleWoofgb.com Susan@BridleWoofgb.com535 Egremont RoadGreat Barrington, Massachusetts 01230MARIDAY GEYER• Daily and Overnight Pet Sitting• Dog Walking• Other Services413-446-3336shakerpaws@gmail.comwww.shakerpaws.com• Puppy Skills• Manners Training• Loose Leash Skills• Connection Cooperation & ControlCertied CCC InstructorCertied Pet SitterBonded & InsuredPaw-fessional Pet CareRelationship Focused Dog TrainingRhonda’s ReptilesWe Rescue Reptiles in NeedReptile Birthday Parties & EventsRhonda Leavitt • New Lebanon, NY • 413-446-1059RhondasReptiles.comAnimalkind, Inc.721 Warren StreetHudson, NY 12546518-822-8643Berkhire Humane Society214 Baker RoadPittseld, MA 01201413-447-7878Columbia Greene Humane111 Humane Society RoadHudson, New York518-828-6044Dakin Humane Society171 Union StreetSpringeld, MA 413-781-4000Everybunny Counts Rabbit Rescue618 Matthews St.Bristol, CT 06010Facebook@Everybunnycountseverybunnycounts@yahoo.comGeminis Pampered Greyhounds145 N. Whitney StreetAmherst, MA 01002413-253-4894Greyhound Options43 Sczgiel RoadWare Ma413-967-9088Hop On Home info@hoponhome.orgSaratoga, New YorkHouse Rabbit ConnectionPO Box 2602Woburn, MA 01888781-431-1211OUR LOCAL SHELTERSIn Honey’s Memory Cat ShelterPO Box 147Huntington, MA 01050413-667-0049Kanes KrusadeP.O. Box 1085East Longmeadow, MA 01028Lttle Guild of St. Francis285 Sharon-Goshen TurnpikeWest Cornwall, CT860-672-6346Mohawk Hudson Humane Society3 Oakland AveMenands, New York 12204518 434-8128Mutt Rescue102 Grove StreetChicopee, MA 01020413-594-8144Northeast Avian Rescue East Greenbush, NY OPEN BY APPOINTMENT ONLY HOTLINE: 518-708-6091Second Chance Animal Center1779 VT-7AArlington, Vermont 05250802-375-2898Thomas J. O’Conner Animal Control & Adoption Center627 Cottage StreetSpringeld, MA 01104413-781-1484Westeld Homeless Cat Project1124 East Mountain RoadWesteld, MA 01085413-568-6964AlcoholAvocadoChocolateCoffee and CaffeineCitrusCoconut and Coconut OilGrapesRaisinsMacadamia NutsMilk and DairyNutsOnionsGarlic ChivesRaw/Undercooked Meat Eggs BonesSalt and Salty Snack FoodsXyli tolYeast Dough

Page 11

11125 Humane Society Rd, Hudson, NY 12534 (518) 828-6044Open daily Tuesday - Saturday 11:30 - 4 Boarding and Daycare remain the same and the food bank is open 7 days a week. Please call with any questions.https://cghs.org/Open 7 daysa week440 Stockbridge Road, Great Barrington, MA 440 Stockbridge Road, Great Barrington, MA 413-528-8020413-528-8020www.vcaallcaring.comwww.vcaallcaring.comHouse Calls onTuesdays!!Conventional & Holistic Veterinary Medicine & AcupunctureConventional & Holistic Veterinary Medicine & AcupunctureClass 4 Laser for Healing Class 4 Laser for Healing VCa all Caring animal HospitalYour NeighborhoodPet Supply Store featuring:• Made in the USA Foods & Treats• Toys • Essentials • Gifts• Natural and Organic Products• Lots of Fun Stuff!Monday - Friday 10 - 5, Saturday 10-4Closed SundaysLenox Commons • 55 Pittseld Road, Lenox, MA413-637-0800 www.chezpet.comSoft PawsBy Charlene MarchandGreetings! We trust that our readers had a wonderful Thanksgiv-ing with families and friends! Many articles are written at this time of year on “winterizing” our dogs. The American Kennel Club puts out a nice resume of cold-weather maintenance suggestions for our north country canines. Of course, we’ll add some tips of our own to this master list:• Provide plenty of fresh water. Use a rubber horse bucket for outdoor watering. The use of metal is dangerous – sticking tongues. Dogs cannot properly hydrate by licking snow. It is not a substitute for water. For outdoor dogs, put out really warm water in the morning, and check frequently. Check your Agway and Tractor Supply stores for in-bucket water heaters. Great for horses and dogs.• Provide plenty of food. Unless Fido is spending his days in front of the wood stove, a food increase is almost always neces-sary for dogs spending signicant time outdoors.• Keep your dog’s paws dry. Salt used on sidewalks and roads can present your dog with cracked and bleeding/sore pads. Bag balm or petroleum jelly works wonders after rinsing feet.• Groom your dog regularly. It’s a given that dogs regulate temperature and insulate better if properly groomed. Dirty coats do not keep a dog warm. Give them a damp hot towel bath with a brisk brushing session. That undercoat needs to come out to prompt fresh and rapid regrowth.• Keep your dog warm, dry, and away from drafts. Outside shel-ters should be raised above the ground a few inches and should preferably be insulated. A rubber or burlap ap in front of the opening is desirable.• Though many prefer straw or wood shavings for bedding, a dog can develop skin infections if forced to live on damp material, so check and change bedding frequently.• With very few exceptions, all dogs should come in for the eve-ning, at least if temperatures fall below 30°F. If you bring them into garages or unheated porches, make sure they have a blanket, rubber mat, or pad to get them off the cold oor. An overhead heat lamp is not only safe for garage use, it provides an excellent climate of warmth for your resting dog.• Watch out for winter hazards. Years ago, we rescued a stray dog with frostbite on the tips of his ears and on his front pads. He could hardly walk. This animal was a 105 full-coated German Shepherd Dog who supposedly could “take the cold.” I think not!• Outdoor felines, typically barn cats, usually seek shelter in tack rooms or bales of hay or straw for warmth. Their food require-ments should be increased. Well-fed cats are better mousers and do not typically consume their prey, protecting them from intestinal parasites. Dogs and cats need ea and tick protection ALL YEAR LONG. If you’re thinking of popping down for the holidays with some in-kind donations for our homeless critters, but can’t gure out what to get – here are a few ideas for items that are always on our shelter wish list:• blankets/towels• cat and dog food – especially cat food• cat and dog toys• cat and dog treats• cat litter• dish soap• bleach• paper towels• laundry detergent• paper towels• postage stamps• sponges & rubber gloves• photo paper (8.5 x11) Thank you for your generosity to our animals. Blessings on your Christmas, Hanukkah, and Kwanzaa celebrations from all of us at CGHS/SPCA! The best gift of all is your loving, perma-nent home for our many eager faces, just waiting for their “let’s go home!” Feel free to call us with any questions at (518) 828-6044 or visit our website at www.cghs.org. Our Food Bank is open to any from the public in need of pet food or for those wishing to donate food from 11:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. daily. Charlene Marchand is the Chairperson of the Columbia-Greene Humane Society/SPCA Board of Directors. She may be contacted at cghsaaron@gmail.com.

Page 12

12BREEZY NOOK PET CREMATORIUM, LTD452 Presbyterian Hill RoadStephentown, New York 12168518-733-9896BensDotter’s pet940 Main StreetGreat Barrington, MA413-528-4940Mon-Fri 10a-6p, Sat 10a-4pQuality foods, Equipment and SuppliesANIMALECTORYCrematoryDoggie Day CareOffering Salon Services, Playcare and Training for THE TRI-STATE AREA’S PETSwww.bowmeowregency.com413-229-0035 honor@bowmeowregency.com BOWMEOW REGENCYForanimalsLLC• Behavior Consultations• Private Training• Group ClassesLeea Foran413-445-8843www.trainingforanimals.comLenox Commons • 55 Pittseld Road, Lenox, MA413-637-0800 www.chezpet.comMonday - Friday 10am - 5:00pm, Saturday 10am - 4pmClosed SundaysCHEZ PETYour Neighborhood Pet Supply StoreShaker Paws, LLCwww.theconnectionpuzzle.netOUR CCC CLASSES CAN HELP!Contact: Mariday GeyerShaker Paws LLC • 413-446-3336shakerpaws@gmail.com • www.shakerpaws.comTaize Shepherd KennelPositive Reinforcement Dog TrainingPrivate and Group ClassesCharlene Marchand • North Chatham, New York(518) 766-3804 • www.taizeshepherdkennel.comGINA’S K-9BED AND BREAKFAST518-329-4675Quality Care Pet Sitting in My Safe, Comfortable HomeCopake, NY 12516Fully insured & member NAPPSPet SittingGINA’S K-9BED AND BREAKFAST518-329-4675Quality Care Pet Sitting in My Safe, Comfortable HomeCopake, NY 12516Fully insured & member NAPPS59 MAIN STREET • LEE, MA • 413-243-1220www.leemeowandgrowl.comMEOW  GROWL P S U SELF SERVEDOG WASH• Fantastic Selection of Dog & Cat Food • Pet Supplies • Leashes, Collars, Grooming Tools • Gifts • Treats• Human Products, Too • Barrington Coffee & Fire CiderDog TrainingFood & SuppliesReliable Pet Siing CompanyVeterinarian Recommended 413.329.5127mhyattreliablepetsitting@gmail.comDog Training411 North Street •• Pittseld, MA, MA 01201(413) 347-8040 •• pampered-pup.comMARIDAY GEYERBonded & Insured Certied Professional Pet Sitter 413-446-3336shakerpaws@gmail.comwww.shakerpaws.comSHAKER PAWS PET CARESERVING CENTRAL COUNTYMASSACHUSETTSGroomingpittsfielD Veterinary Hospital &sHaker Hill pet resort1634 West Housatonic Street (toute 20)Pittseld, MA,, 413-499-1580www.pittseldvet.com, Open 7 Days a WeekInvisible Fence

Page 13

VCa all Caring animal Hospital440 Stockbridge Road, Great Barrington, MA 413-528-8020www.vcaallcaring.comConventional & Holistic Veterinary Medicine & AcupunctureConventional & Holistic Veterinary Medicine & AcupunctureClass 4 Laser for HealingClass 4 Laser for HealingVeterinariansWood HillVeterinary ClinicOPEN 6 DAYS A WEEK650 ROUTE 295, OLD CHATHAM • 650 ROUTE 295, OLD CHATHAM • 518-392-6224 518-392-6224 WOODHILLVETCLINIC.COMWOODHILLVETCLINIC.COMMichael Delliere, D.V.M.Gwen Hood, D.V.M.Like us on Facebook!ANIMALECTORYWilDlife animal resCueNewhouse Wildlife RescueChelmsford, Massachusetts(978) 413-4085Bluebird Farm SanctuaryCheshire, MA. 413-446-3345Berkshire Wildlife“To succesfully treat injured and orphaned wildlife with the goal of releasing them.”413-623-834013Cat’s MeowCat Companionship: A Guide to Bonding with Your Cat It’s an unfair reputation they just can’t seem to shake.People tend to misunderstand cats. Perceived as the polar opposite to the warmth and affection exuded by dogs, they’re often pegged as aloof and unloving. Cats are labeled solitary and selsh, only desiring to seek their human owners’ presence when they need something.While it’s true that our feline friends tend to possess an independent streak – and that their personal-ities can vary considerably – many cats, in fact, demonstrate a remarkable propensity to bond and be affectionate with people. They’ll climb into your lap when you least expect it, purring lovingly along the way.That the human-cat bonding experience can be complex is hard to refute. Bonding with feral cats with limited previous human contact proves difcult, as these felines struggle to award trust. And even human-raised cats don’t necessarily bond equally with every person within their home.But with a balanced approach of effort and patience, you can establish a bond with your cat that’s based on mutual respect and, possibly, even love.Understanding the Human-Companion Animal BondWith estimates indicating that nearly 100 million cats are owned within the United States, it’s safe to say humans genuinely enjoy having felines as pets. Unlike many animal species, cats have the capacity to enter into bilateral relationships with us, whereby they invest dependence, trust, and affection and – in return – receive care and love.The interaction between a cat and their human family has many different facets. People and cats share experiences ranging from fun moments (playtime) to quiet times (silently enjoying each other’s compa-ny) to less joyous occasions, such as when an owner becomes exasperated by their cat or vice-versa. Yet, even when negative experiences occur, the theme of the relationship should remain one of mutual re-spect. As their relationship evolves and matures, an owner can grow to know a cat inside and out – their needs and wants, likes and dislikes, and strengths and weaknesses. Likewise, the cat develops a better understanding of what to expect from their human caregivers, evoking an even greater level of trust.Do Our Cats Really Love Us?Cats are said to be independent, aloof, and not in need of company except on their own terms. This is true only of some cats, but not all. Cats raised by people from an early age either think they are almost human, or that the human is almost a cat.Contrary to popular belief, many cats demonstrate love towards their owners on a daily basis. While the receipt of a “love offering” from your feline in the form of an animal carcass may be unwanted, cats have a multitude of more attering methods for exuding affection toward their human companions:• Following you around the house or casually sauntering into the room where you’re sitting.• Jumping on your lap and beginning to purr.• Greeting you enthusiastically when you return home.• Sending subtle cat signals of affection to you, such as staring at your adoringly, then squinting or slow-ly closing their eyes.• Rubbing their head upon you to mark you with their scent.• Lying on their back in your presence with their stomach exposed. This is a sign of trust, because your cat is in a vulnerable position.Bonding in CatsWhen it comes to bonding with a kitten or young cat, you must consider that animal’s history and personality. Assuming they’ve had prior human contact, your cat will likely be relatively friendly and accustomed to being handled. If, however, your cat appears fright-ened and timid, focus on making them feel safe. By utilizing a laser pointer for play and avoiding actual contact at rst, you can help ease your cat’s nerves.Imprinting, an elemental form of bonding, occurs most readily during a sensitive time of development for kittens between 2-7 months of age. This ultra-impressionable period marks the perfect occasion to optimize your cat-human bond and establish additional human acquaintances.However, even if your feline has surpassed this period, there are various strategies an owner can employ to induce bonding. These include:• Avoiding punishment of your cat at all costs• Getting your cat spayed or neutered• Serving as the food source for your cat• Practicing patience with your cat’s developmentHow to Convert Your Reclusive Cat to a Cuddly Lap KittyThe majority of cats are trainable with regards to affection. While this scenario may sound too good to be true for some cat owners, it’s indeed possible to transform some seemingly anti-social felines into genuine lap-lovers.Ever wished your cat would jump into your lap whenever you sit on the couch? When attempting to rehabilitate a reclusive feline, the general philosophy is to create circumstances favorable for the cat to approach the owner:• Arrange for rehabilitation to occur in quiet circumstances, such as you sitting in a large room armed with treats.• Without moving from your chair, toss a treat in your cat’s direction, and continue doing so while gradually luring your cat closer.• Entice your cat to take the treat from your hand, gradually moving your hand toward your lap, and only releasing the treat if your cat puts their paws on your lap.Although this process may take patience and repetition, obtaining a cuddly lap kitty is certainly not outside the realm of possibility.How Your Cat Can Change Your LifeBelieve it or not, your cat has many hidden talents. It’s no secret that your feline friend can add tremendous value to your livelihood and well-being. As a cat owner, your feline serves many roles within your life – often subconsciously.By making you laugh and listening to your spoken thoughts, your cat occupies roles ranging from personal trainer to psychologist to doctor. Few known remedies can relieve stress and boredom the way your feline can.Do not underestimate the power of your cat. Spend time with them, give them the love and attention they deserve, and they will give you more than you could ever imagine. When handled properly, the human-feline bond truly represents an ideal arrangement for all. www.petplace.com

Page 14

14CANINE RESCUE LEAGUES WEBBED SIGHTINGSLooking for a dog? Look here or contact us and we can help! 413-496-8188, anlife@aol.comAFFENPINSCHER RESCUE OF AMERICADonna Wolfe, http://www.affenpinscherrescue.org/AIREDALE TERRIERNew England Airedale Rescue www.newenglandairedalerescue.orgAKITAAkita Rescue of Western New York, www.akitarescuewny.comALASKAN MALAMUTEAlaskan Malamute Rescue of New England, www.amrone.org 413-429-7286 MAAMERICAN PIT BULL TERRIERPittieLove Rescue www.pittieloverescue.orgOut of the Pits, www.outofthepits.org, (Albany NY area) info@outoft-hepits.orgThe Simon Foundation Inc, thesimonfoundation.org, 860-519-1516 CT AUSTRALIAN SHEPHERDNortheast Aussie Rescue & Placement Helpline (ARPH) www.arphinc.com 877-ARPH-779BASSET HOUND-New England Basset Hound Rescue Inc nebhr.orgBEAGLE- B.O.N.E.S./Beagles of New England States www.bonesbea-gles.org admin@bonesbeagles.org 508-473-2228 MABERNESE MOUNTAIN DOGBernese Education and Rescue Northeast Region www.bernerinc.orgBICHON FRISEBichon Frise Club of America, www.bichonrescue.org, 866-473-0722Linda Ferrullo, 845-561-7004 NYBLOODHOUNDNorthEast Bloodhound Rescue www.bloodhounds.com/tbn/nebr.htmlBORDER COLLIENew England Border Collie Rescue www.NEBCR.org, (ME/NH/VT/MA/CT/RI/upstate NY/northern NJ), info@nebcr.org, 800-760-1569Nutmeg Border Collie Rescue, Jalyn White 860-742-6349 CTBOXERNortheastern Boxer Rescue www.BoxerRescue.com contact@boxerrescue.com (all New England)The Boxer Rescue www.theboxerrescue.org info@theboxerrescue.org (MA/CT/RI) 800-471-2030Second Chance Boxer Rescue, www.secondchanceboxer.com, (all New England) juliescbr@gmail.com, 877-281-3146 (shelter calls or urgent issues only) BRITTANYNew England Brittany Rescue www.nebrittanyrescue.orgBULLDOGBulldog Club of America Rescue Network (BCARN) www.rescuebulldogs.org/rescueroster/rescueroster.htmCHIHUAHUAYankee Chihuahua Rescue www.YankeeChihuahuaRescue.org yankeech-irescue@gmail.comConnecticut - rescueconnecticut@gmail.comMassachusetts - rescuemassachusetts@gmail.comVermont - ycr.vermont@gmail.com COCKER SPANIELCocker Spaniel Rescue of New England www.csrne.org, info@csrne.org, 603-547-3363 NHCOLLIECollie Rescue League of New England and Eastern NY www.collierescueleague.org 1-800-296-3265DACHSHUNDDachshund Club of America, National Rescue, guiness7@comcast.net, 904-217-7698DALMATIANDal Rescue of Upstate New York, StoneHillDals@aol.comDalmatian Club of America, www.thedca.org DOBERMAN PINSCHERDoberman Rescue Unlimited www.dru.org/ doberman@dru.org (NH/MA/RI/CT/VT/ME) 603-887-1200 NH ENGLISH COCKER SPANIELEnglish Cocker Spaniel Club of America, www.ecsca.org/rescuehome.htmlENGLISH SPRINGER SPANIELNew England English Springer Spaniel Rescue www.essrescue.org/ GERMAN SHEPHERD DOG German Shepherd Rescue of New England www.gsrne.org (all-New En-gland states) info@gsrne.org, hotline 978-443-2202 MA GOLDEN RETRIEVERYankee Golden Retriever Rescue (New England only) www.ygrr.org Ho-tline 978-568-9700 MA GREAT DANEGreat Danes Around New England Rescue, www.gdaner.orgCarrie Loholdt (MA, VT, NH, CT, RI, ME) gdanerescue@aol.com207-321-2771 ME GREAT PYRENEESNortheast Pyr Rescue www.nepyresq.org 877-528-0637GREYHOUNDGreyhound Friends, www.grey-hound.org (New England/NY/NY) 508-435-5969 MAGreyhound Rescue of NE, www.greyhoundrescuene.org, adopt@greyhoundrescuene.org 508-478-1617 MA Greyhound Pets of America/Massachusetts, www.greyhound-petsmass.org, IRISH SETTERIrish Setter Club of New England, www.iscne.orgJACK RUSSELL TERRIERPauline Clark @www.jacksgalore.orgLABRADOR RETRIEVERLabrador Retriever Rescue www.labrescue.com/ (MA, ME, NH, RI, VT) Hotline 978-356-2982 MALabrador Retriever Rescue-CT www.labrescuect.orglabrescuect@gmail.com, 860-767-0381 CTNorthEast All Retriever Rescue www.nearr.com email: nearr@ne-arr.com Hotline 617-824-4278 MA MALTESEAmerican Maltese Association Rescue, www.americanmalteseres-cue.org, MASTIFFFriends of Rescued Mastiffs, www.mastiffrescue.org, 800-200-5287Mastiff Club of America Rescue www.mastiff.org/MCOARESCUE.htm, RydalmMastiffs@aol.comOLD ENGLISH SHEEPDOGNew England Old English Sheep-dog Rescue www.neoesr.org,781-259-8173 MAPEKINGESEPekingese Rescue Network Inc (NJ, NY, CT, MA, NH, RI, ME, VT) www.pekerescue.petnder.comPOMERANIANBay Colony Pomeranian Club Res-cue, baycolonypomeranianclub.orgPOODLEPoodle Rescue of New England www.poodlerescuene.org Poo-dleRescue@poodlerescuene.org 617-628-1425 MAPoodle Rescue of Vermont, www.poodlerescuevt.org, 802-497-4144 VT, info@poodlerescuevt.orgPUGPug Rescue of New England, www.pugrescueofnewengland.orgGreen Mtn Pug Rescue www.greenmtnpugrescue.comCurly Tail Pug Rescue (NY/CT/NJ) www.curlytailpugrescue.orgRAT TERRIERRatbone Rescues www.ratbonerescues.com, ratbonerescue@ratboneres-cues.comROTTWEILERNorth East Rottweiler Rescue www.rottrescue.org, toll free 866-392-0102SAINT BERNARDSaint Bernard Rescue Foundation, www.saintrescue.orgSAMOYEDMinuteman Samoyed Club Rescue, www.doghows.org/ash/mscr/ , info@samoyedrescue.orgSHIBA INUNational Shiba Club of America Rescue, www.shibas.org/rescue.html, rescue@shibas.orgNYC Shiba Rescue, http://nycshibarescue.org, email: shibas@nycshibares-cue.org, 917-591-3408 NYSHIH TZUAmerican Shih Tzu Club Rescue contacts, www.americanshihtzuclub.org./rescue_committeeShih Tzu Rescue of New England, www.petnder.com/shelters/MA304.html, STRNE1@gmail.comWELSH TERRIER-welshterrierrescue.org.YORKSHIRE TERRIERYorkshire Terrier Club of America Rescue Inc, www.ytca.org/rescue.htmlThe MarketplaceFor SaleRabbits For SaleBerkshire BunniesPurebred Holland Lops and Mini Plush LopsLovingly home raised for pets, therapy animals, and show. Socialized and started on litter box training. Our bunnies are so friendly and have the best temperaments! Specializing in rare, beautiful colors and blue eyes. ARBA registered rabbitry.Otis, MA - call/text 413-329-8904 – berkshirebunniesrabbitry@gmail.comFollow us on Facebook, Instagram & TikTok: @berkshirebunniesrabbitryberkshirebunniesrabbitry@gmail.com

Page 15

15Dog Wags-Breeds from A to ZDog of the MonthMonthly Dog & Cat PawoscopePawoscoPesHAPPY BIRTHDAY!Sagittarius (November 23–December 21)COCKER SPANIEL Sagittarius is the third and nal re sign; those born under this sign are the seekers of freedom and adventure. Sagittarian pets have lots of energy and enjoy challenges. They also like to move around—and not just in the backyard, either. As they love action, these pets want you to take them with you when you go hiking or biking.DOGS-Sagittarius is the symbol of the traveler, the philosopher, and the student. For them, life is a daring adventure. They are known for their big dreams, big personalities, and love of travel. Sagittarius canines often need room to roam and can feel anxious when they’re forced to stay indoors. They are happi-est being outside as much as possible. They have colorful and comical personalities and often make superb travel companions.CATS-If your cat was born under the mutable re sign Sagittarius, ruled by lucky Jupiter, they’re sure to be an adventurous feline who’s all about exploring uncharted terrain—whether that’s by wearing a leash and actually hiking alongside you or simply scouring exciting new pockets of the backyard or hiding spots throughout your home. Bigger is always better, according to the Archer, so your cat is a major fan of begging for even more play, more treats, and more attention. And because their sign is known to be rather unltered, this is one kitty who will be anything but soft-spoken.As the third and nal re sign, Sagittarius is known for its boundless energy and thirst for adventure. Pets born under this sign are natural explorers who crave freedom and excitement. Sagittarians love physical activity and enjoy challenges, making them enthusiastic companions for dynamic, on-the-go pet parents. They won’t be content with just backyard play—they need a variety of environments to explore. So, when you’re planning a hiking or biking adventure, don’t forget to bring your Sagittarian pet along; they’ll thrive in the great outdoors and make the journey even more enjoyable. The American Cocker Spaniel’s temperament is friendly, quiet, playful, and devoted. This breed is generally sociable and affectionate towards people and other pets when well-socialized. The Cocker Spaniel, or the American Cocker Spaniel, is a small-sized Spaniel breed and the smallest member of the sporting group. Standing 13 to 15 inches tall at the shoulder and weighing between 20 to 30 pounds, the Cocker Spaniel is compact and athletic. This breed is active, affection-ate, energetic, and always eager to participate in family activities. They thrive on human companionship and are known for forming strong bonds with their owners.The merry and frolicsome Cocker Spaniel, with his big, dreamy eyes and impish personality, is one of the world’s best-loved breeds. They were de-veloped as hunting dogs, but Cockers gained their wide popularity as all-around companions. The coat comes in enough colors and patterns to please any taste. The well-balanced body is sturdy and solid, and these quick, du-rable gundogs move with a smooth, easy gait. Cockers are eager playmates for kids and are easily trained as companions and athletes. They are big enough to be sporty, but compact enough to be portable. A Cocker in full coat rewards extra grooming time by being the prettiest dog on the block. These energetic sporting dogs love playtime and brisk walks.

Page 16

16BENSDOTTER’S PET940 MAIN STREET, GREAT BARRINGTON MANutritious, Delicious, and Ready-to-Serve!Only the Best Farm-Fresh Natural Ingredients State of Nature sources only the best farm-to-table ingredients from farms local to their kitchen in New York’s Hudson Valley, and, to ensure that their standards for purity, quality, and humane practices are met, they personally pick up their ingredients straight from the farm. That local sourcing with no middleman involved in processing makes forlightning-fast production and super-fresh food. From farm to freezer in less than a day! Available in 2oz and 8oz burgers or 1lb and 5lb chubs, vacuum-sealed for freshness, State of Nature makes it easy to feed your pet a complete and balanced farm-fresh diet designed for optimum health. Available proteins: Beef, Beef Tripe, Chicken, Duck, Lamb, Mackerel, Rabbit, TurkeyRAW DIETS for CATS and DOGSSTATE of NATURE