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2125 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.Cyrus is a 4 year old Husky, pictured with CGHS/SPCA Animal Care Techni-cian Sammy Blish, who was surrendered to us due to an over-breeding situation. He’s a bit shy at rst, but opens up once he gets to know you! He hasn’t been cat or dog tested yet. Older kids might be best for him due to how shy he can be...come down and pay him a visit!Win a caricature of your pet on our vans! Leaping Luna’s and Loki’s! We’ve launched a leap year rafe to remember! Buy rafe tickets now through March 31 for a chance to have your pup or kitty, drawn in caricature style by Reuben Lara of Barkshire Dog Trading Company, and placed on one of our trans-port vans! We have two vans, 200 tickets total (only 100 tickets for our cat van and 100 for our dog one) for a total of 24 spots -- 12 for cats and 12 for dogs. Buy as many tickets as you can before they’re gone! We’ll fool around on April 1st with a Facebook Live drawing by Executive Director John Per-reault and announce the winners on our Instagram! Get tickets at Berk-shire Humane Society on Barker Road or by calling 413-447-7878 ext 131. Tickets cost $229.00 each.Rules Must be 18 to enter and win No employees of Berkshire Humane Society are eligible to enter No other purchase beside rafe ticket is necessary Drawing will be held on April 1st - you do not need to be present to win Any prize not claimed within one week, will have another ticket drawn Winners will have two weeks** to submit three photos of their pet for the caricature artist No limit on number of tickets bought Sales of tickets end on March 31st**Due to wrap production scheduling, if we do not receive photos by the end of the two-week period, we will draw another winner.Please look on the website for more information--Meet AshesAshes is a male Beagle/Mix who is 7 years old and looking for his forever home.Berkshire Humane Society214 Barker Rd, Pittseld, MA 01201Phone: (413) 447-7878, Berkshirehumane.org

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Paws to ReectSpotlight On–Pet Poison Prevention 4Dog Barks-Can Rat Poison Hurt Kids and Dogs 5Cat’s Meow-This Side of Purradise 6 CGHS-Food Aggression and Resource Guarding 7Horse Corral-Proper Hoof Care 8Adoptables 2, 8, 9, 11Wildlife and Rodenticide 10Spotlight On-Adopt a Rescued Guinea Pig Month Photos 11 Natural Fun Facts 12Guide To Our Local Shelters 12Small Animal Hutch-Choosing A Guinea Pig 13Cat’s Meow--Rat Poisoning in Cats 14Dog Barks-Spring Activities 15Animalectory 16-17Wildlife Information-Wildlife Rescue Messages 17Rescue Leagues 18Dog Wags-Monthly Breed– Chinook 19Monthly Dog & Cat Pawoscope 19Berkshire Mountain Animal World™ 2018-2024. 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 6, Edition 67 Founder: Gayle SchechtmanEditor: Jane NicoleWriters: Iris BassLinda ClaytonDr. Melody R. Conklin Dr. Debra PrimovicAlex 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!! Gayle It may seem like there are a number of articles on pet poisons this month in Berkshire Animal World, but this is a topic that is near and dear to my heart. I had a cat for 20 years, Ferbee. She survived her expo-sure to rat posioning but many pets don’t. I was so lucky. She was a tiny 7 pound kitty whom I let out, as an indoor/outdoor cat. This was the last time I ever let a cat outside. I had felt guilt; rationalized that they are wild at heart and should be free to roam but I was very wrong. They are domes-tic pets and not only incur a hugh amount of dangers outside, they also inict damage. So after sometime of meow-complaints and screaming at me at the door every-day, I spent more time with Ferbee, played with her and attended to her needs for stimulation. Alls well that ends well! All my kitties are indoor. That was a critical step for me, as I never used any rodent poison or any kind of poisoning on lawns. Ferbee just happened to kill a mouse that night, before she almost died. Please read, as they are important articles with different information in each. There is also the horror of wildlife dying from eating poisoned prey. Of course, that does makes sense and is occuring with more frequency. These poisons effect all levels of the food chain. Even us. Jude & Alfalfa are 5-month-old brothers. Now this pair is the last of their litter waiting for their forever home. The two boys are incredibly bonded and are often found cud-dling and playing together. Because they are so bonded, it will be required they be adopted together through the “Buddy Program”.They are also a bit of a “special needs” case, as they have a chronic upper respiratory infection. This just means they will need to be the only cats in the home. Please feel free to reach out to the feline staff at (413)-447-7878 ext. 124 regarding this. Please don’t let a little cold deter you from adopting a phenomenal pair of youngsters as they’ve been waiting patiently for a home since October 26th!

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4SPOTLIGHTHow to Prepare for Pet Poison Prevention AwarenessBy Lori Savka Accidents happen, even to the best pet parents, and despite your best efforts, your pet may ingest a potentially harmful or fatal poison. Many common items in your home and yard are toxic to pets, so it is important that you educate yourself and keep these poisons out of reach of your furry friends. Awareness is the key to preventing pet poisoning emergencies. March is designated as Pet Poison Prevention Awareness Month and it is the perfect time to learn about the potential poisons your pet is exposed to everyday. Some poisons are rather obvious and easy to avoid, while others are not so easily identiable.How to Pet-Proof Your Home Our pets are curious creatures who experience the world through their mouths. They can’t resist smelling or ingesting foods, plants, and household items that interest them. That’s why poi-son-proong your home is so important. Here are some important steps from the Pet Poison Help-line that can make your home safer for pets:• Make sure your houseplants are non-toxic.• Store medications in secure areas, out of reach of pets.• Keep garbage cans secured behind closed doors.• Keep ashtrays, cigarettes, and smoking cessation products out of reach.• Secure your purse in an area where your pets cannot access it.• Keep pets out of the room when using toilet cleaners or other cleaning products.• If you use an automatic toilet bowl cleaner, always close the toilet lid.• Keep rodenticides (rat and mouse poison) away from your pets.• Never use ea and tick products made for dogs on your cat.• Keep glue out of reach. Some glues, such as Gorilla Glue®, expand greatly once in-gested and require surgical removal. (Just one ounce of glue may expand to the size of a basketball.)• If antifreeze is accidentally spilled in the garage or driveway, clean it up immediately and dilute it with several gallons of water. Antifreeze has a sweet taste that is appealing to pets.• Keep pets off the lawn until commercially sprayed herbicides are dry.Top 10 Pet PoisonsTo help raise awareness, the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (APCC) released its list of Top 10 Animal Toxins of 2018 after reviewing roughly 213,773 cases of potential animal poisonings.Here are the results:1. Over-the-counter medications ranked number one in pet toxins, accounting for 19.6 percent of calls to the APCC. Included in this category are ibuprofen, naproxen, cold med-ications, and herbal supplements.2. Human prescription medications accounted for 17.5 percent of all APCC cases. The most common medications were ADHD medications, antidepressants, and heart medica-tions.3. Food comes in at number three, with 11.4 percent of cases involving foods like grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, and items containing xylitol.4. Chocolate accounted for 10.1 percent of APCC cases. (That’s almost 60 cases a day!)5. Veterinary products accounted for 9.3 percent of cases. Many pet medications are a-vored to increase palatability and some pets may mistake these pet medications for treats. Remember that a “childproof container” does not mean pet-proof.6. Household items accounted for 7.3 percent of cases, including ingestion of paint, glue, and cleaning products.7. Rodenticide exposure increased to 6.3 percent of APCC cases. Along with rats and mice, our pets nd baits very tasty, but ingestion can be deadly.8. Insecticide exposure accounted for 6.2 percent of cases.9. Plants accounted for 5.5 percent of cases, including indoor and outdoor plants and bou-quets.10. Garden products round out the list at number 10, accounting for 2.3 percent of APCC cases. Many pets nd fertilizer irresistible. While it did not make the ofcial Top 10 List, the APCC is also getting an increasing number of calls about marijuana and CBD products, especially edibles. Edibles may contain a highly-con-centrated amount of THC, which can lead to low blood pressure, coma, and even death if your pet ingests them. If you think that your pet has ingested any of these poisons or any other questionable substances, contact your veterinarian immediately. It is very helpful if you can identify the substance and bring the package or label along with you.Symptoms of Accidental Poisoning With some poisons, your pet will have an immediate reaction. With other poisons, it may take several days before you notice any symptoms. Here are some general symptoms you should look for, including:• Drooling• Vomiting• Loss of appetite• Diarrhea• Lethargy or weakness• Pale or yellowish gums• Excessive thirst or urination• Nervousness, hyperactivity, muscle tremors, seizures, or comaOf course, go to your veterinarian or an emergency veterinarian but the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (APCC) is your best resource for any animal poison-related emergency, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. If you think your pet may have ingested a potentially poisonous substance, call (888) 426-4435.Pet Poison Helpline at 855-764-7661. www.petplace.com

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5SPOTLIGHT on My Dog Ingested Rat Poison – What Do I Do? It’s a shocking moment for every pet owner when they discover their dog has eaten something potentially harm-ful such as rat bait. You may wonder, “How can I treat my dog after they’ve ingested green block rat poison?” and “Should I take them to an emergency vet?” You are not alone in this, and I’m here to offer some guidance. Howev-er, understanding the severity of this situation and knowing when to contact your vet are crucial.Section 1: Assess the Situation and Act Immediately When you suspect your dog has consumed rat poison, acting quickly is essential. It’s important to determine if the rat bait was rst or second generation, as treatment may vary. Furthermore, the number of times your furry friend has eaten such substances also inuences the urgency of the situation. However, one common and crucial step is contacting your vet promptly. Here’s a helpful resource that explains what to do when your dog eats something they shouldn’t.Familiarizing with Basic First Aid for DogsWhile consulting your vet is a priority, learning basic rst aid for dogs can help manage such incidents right away. Basic rst aids may mitigate the harm while you’re con-tacting your vet or preparing to bring your pooch in. It’s always worthwhile being ready to help your pets in case of any unexpected events. Recognizing the After-EffectsAfter the dog has consumed rat poison, it may experience several immediate and delayed symptoms, including vom-iting. It’s vital to know when such signs warrant immediate medical attention and when they’re merely a part of your pet’s recovery process. Lastly, while this specic concern revolves around rat poi-son, it’s worthwhile noting that dogs eating inappropriate or harmful substances is not uncommon. It could be items that aren’t typically hazardous to us but are toxic for dogs, like chocolate. If you ever encounter such an event, know-ing how much of a toxic substance can harm your dog is vital. In particular, if your pet has ingested chocolate, understanding the toxic levels is important.Keep in mind that these resources should not replace a consultation with a veterinarian. Always seek professional aid when you believe your pet is in any harm. They rely on us for their safety and wellbeing, so let’s strive to keep our beloved furry pals safe and sound.Of course, go to your veterinarian or an emergency veterinarian but the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (APCC) is your best resource for any animal poison-related emergency, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. If you think your pet may have ingested a potentially poisonous substance, call (888) 426-4435.www.vetbabble.comFor Immediate ReleaseColumbia-Greene Humane Society/SPCA offers vaccine clinic for cats, dogs, kittens, and puppiesHudson, NY The Columbia-Greene Humane Society/SPCA will be offering vaccination clinics on Saturday, March 2, and Saturday, March 23. The clinics will run from 8 to 10 a.m., and no appointment is necessary. Vaccines the clinics will offer include rabies, bordetella (kennel cough), feline leukemia, canine and feline distemper combination, and/or canine Lyme DIsease for $25 per vaccine. Canine inuenza vaccines can be purchased for $39. The shelter is located at 111 Humane Society Road, Hudson, NY. For more information, please call (518) 828-6044 or email info@cghs.org.Can Rat Poison (Rodenticides) Hurt Kids and Pets?Yes. Rat poisons or rodenticides are pesticides designed to kill rodents, like mice and rats. Rodents can carry diseases, damage property, and contaminate food. That’s why it is often important to control rodents effectively. It is also important to understand the risks of using rodenticides around children and pets. If you suspect your child has handled or eaten a rodenticide, call the Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222 right away. For pets exposed to rodenticides, contact your veterinarian or an ani-mal emergency resource. All rodenticides can be toxic to mammals and birds when eaten. Most rodenticides are also toxic when breathed in or touched. People, pets, and wildlife can suffer from serious health effects after exposure to just a single dose of rodenticide. Rodenticides are formulated as baits, which have ingredients that attract animals. For example, baits might contain peanut butter, molasses, or grains. These ingredients can be also attractive to children and pets.Types of rodenticides Many chemicals used to kill rodents are called anticoagulants. These chemicals cause uncon-trolled bleeding by affecting a rodent’s ability to form blood clots. Symptoms may not be visible for up to ve days after exposure. If left untreated, poisoning can lead to death. Some rodenticides work differently than anticoagulants, but can still be very toxic to rodents and other animals. For example, bromethalin can harm the nervous system, zinc phosphide produces a lethal gas within the body, and cholecalciferol increases calcium levels in the blood, leading to organ failure.Reducing risk at home Not using a pesticide product is the best way to reduce the risks. But if you feel you must, read the label, as it has instructions for how to apply the product properly and effectively. Some roden-ticides can be used with bait stations. These devices allow rodents to access and eat the poison, but they keep children and pets out. Rodenticide product labels typically provide warnings to keep the product out of reach of chil-dren. They might also include notes for veterinarians in case a pet eats the product.In addition to reading the label, there are several ways to minimize risks.Prevention of Rat Poisoning in Pets• Contact a local extension ofce for rodent identication and pest control options.• Consider integrated pest management and traps before buying rodenticides.• Check areas before allowing your children or pets to play in them.• Promptly remove dead rodents to reduce the risk of poisoning pets and wildlife.• Go to your veterinarian or an emergency veterinarian but the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (APCC) is your best resource for any animal poison-related emergency, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. If you think your pet may have ingested a potentially poisonous substance, call (888) 426-4435.

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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 Artemis. 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/I Only Have Eyes for You Twelve-year-old (65 in human years, middle-aged in cat ones), all-white Artemis is truly one of a kind. You can’t quite see this in black-and-white (go to the Berkshire Humane Society website for a color photo), but this beautiful gentleman has one green eye, and one blue—an unusual yet totally heathy situation known as heterochromia (literally, “different colors”). Here’s the genetic basis for them: All cats are born with blue eyes, which often gradu-ally change to another color, such as yellow or green, after birth. However, white is the dominant gene in cats—during gestation, it may partially suppress other fur colors, result-ing in, say, “tuxedo” cats with a white belly, or kitties with white patches, not to mention white boots. When an all-white cat is born, this dominant gene may not fully kick in as far as its eyes are concerned. Where it does, the born-blue eye stays blue; where it doesn’t, a different, not fully suppressed color emerges, thanks to genes inherited from the kitten’s parents—in Artemis’s case, presenting as green, beneting you with two differently colored orbs to admire as he gazes at you. When I spoke with shelter staffer Kayla on February 15, she said Artemis was surren-dered to the shelter when his prior person became (or noticed they were) allergic to him . . . leaving him suddenly bereft of the affection to which he clearly had become accustomed. As Kayla enthused, “He’s shy, but as soon as you touch him, he’ll melt into your hands.” He loves to snuggle, so if you are in need of warm and devoted companionship all pack-aged in a furry white coat, Artemis is the cat for you—with the extra perk that, at 12, he qualies for the shelter’s senior discount Don’t be put off by his age—Artemis is in tip-top health, aside from perhaps needing some dental work, says Kayla. The other usual matters apply: please keep him strictly in-doors, without small children or four-footed pets, to enable him to lead a quiet and über-af-fectionate life for many colorfully observant years to come.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 Artemis or the other cats currently available for adoption there or at Purradise, 301 Stockbridge Road, Great Barrington, MA, 413-717-4244. Purradise is open for both adoptions and boarding. Please respect any COVID-19 proto-cols that may be in place at either shelter.

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7125 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 HospitAlSoft PawsBy Charlene MarchandYour 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.comOur discussion continues on food-aggression and resource guarding. We at CGHS, as well as many other shelters, nd that this problem is often a reason for a dog surrender. There is also no doubt that many of our unclaimed strays with this problem were not merely “lost,” but rather intentionally dropped far from their home base. These guarding behaviors can result in injuries to owners, especially children, as well as unsuspecting visitors to one’s home. Children are especially vulnerable, because of their inability to assess an accurate “read” on the dog before the assault. Unfortunately and all too frequently, these dogs have been disciplined in the act of guarding. This incorrect and misguided approach now convinces Ferocious Freddie that he was right all along. The people with whom he lives are threats to his needs, his survival, his safety, and his very well-being. This is one behavior problem where knowledgeable inter-vention and guidance is a must! A confrontational “I’ll show you who’s boss” or “How dare you” approach precipitates an escalation in reactive behavior. Never forget that our dogs live in the instant, and they always do what they think is right in that moment. They are re-actors, not actors. They are without malice, intentional disobedience and nonconformity. They are not children, and not like children. They are domesticated predatory crea-tures, dened by instinct and distinct drives, which are so often misunderstood by well-meaning and well-intentioned owners. Dogs cannot function in a human family, in a properly functioning canine-human pack if you will, if the “needs-to-be subordinate canine” views any or all of his family mem-bers as threats. Some canines will only guard against other canine or feline family members. I often hear that “when Rover has his rawhide, Barney and Barkeley better hide or else they’re going to get it!” We have many successful counter-conditioning and behavior modication programs for guarding behaviors. My clients are often shocked by the protocol, because the program is exactly the opposite of what they believe they should be doing. An excellent resource on this problem is Jean Donaldson’s “Mine! A Guide to Resource Guarding in Dogs.” Some of these canine combatants can and do become good canine citizens, and many families have been reward-ed because of their commitment, with a compliant canine partner. I consistently have a resource guarder at my center for behavior and counterconditioning. Some internet “remedies” have ended in ER treatments for dog bites. This is not an easy behavior to achieve a x with 100% reliability. Deal only with a knowledgeable professional who will be forth-coming with an accurate prognosis. We have a new fee structure that began this February. Here is a list of some of our most common fees…anything you don’t see here, please give us a call at (518) 828-6044, or stop on by!• Cat spaying/neutering (female or male): $100• Dog neutering (male): $200 and up• Dog spaying (female): $225 and up• Cat adoptions: $100 (fully vetted/vaccinated)• Dog adoptions: $225 (fully vetted/vaccinated)• Dog adoptions – American Staffordshire Terriers and mix-es: $100 (fully vetted/vaccinated)• Senior dogs and cats are ALWAYS sponsored (free!)

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8Horse Corral Berkshire Humane Society214 Barker Rd, Pittseld, MA 01201Phone: (413) 447-7878, Berkshirehumane.orgMelanie, a Belgian Draft at our sanctuary.No Hoof, No Horse – The Importance of Proper Hoof CareBy Alex Valverde, Equine Advocates Communications Manager The phrase “no hoof, no horse” may seem cliché, but it rings true; A healthy hoof is essential to an equine’s overall quality of life. This is why proper hoof care is an important part of an equine caretaker’s daily routine. “It’s important because horses can suffer from a variety of ailments to their hooves,” says Melissa Murray, the Equine Care Manager at Equine Advocates. “Some of them are benign and some are serious, so you want to make sure that you get to know your horse’s hooves just as well as you know the rest of your horse.” Murray says the rst step to proper hoof care is making sure you have a great working relationship with a farrier or equine podiatrist, someone who is both a procient farrier and licensed veterinarian. These specialists will make sure that your horse(s) receive a trim every six to eight weeks. A horse’s hooves are made of keratin, the same protein a human’s hair and nails are made of. Just like hair and nails, hooves grow, and if they get overgrown, their body gets uneven which can lead to other issues. In addition to regular trims, caretakers should pick out a horse’s hooves as often as pos-sible, if not every day. This is done with a hoof pick, which is used to clear dirt and other debris. “You’re going to pick just outside the frog area, which is the little triangle shape on the bottom of the hoof, and pull down towards the apex of the frog, or the point of the trian-gle,” says Murray. “You don’t want to dig too hard because the sole can be sensitive.” The important thing to remember is to not pick the frog area directly with a hoof pick or other sharp object. Instead, use a small brush to swipe debris from that area. Regular hoof picking can not only prevent hoof ailments from occurring, but it also helps a caretaker catch issues as soon as possible. Three major hoof ailments equines can suffer from include thrush, abscesses, and lamini-tis or founder. Thrush is a fungal infection characterized by a black, foul-smelling substance that typi-cally affects the frog or adjacent area. It’s treated with topical anti-fungal medication. “After treatment, you want to make sure to keep the hoof clean and dry,” said Murray. “It’s good to keep a closer eye on this issue during mud season because fungus grows in a dark, damp environment. The sole of the hoof is always pressed against the ground which combined with water and mud makes for a breeding ground for fungal infections.” If a horse is limping and you don’t notice any issues when you pick their hooves, they may have an abscess. Abscesses occur when bacteria get trapped inside the hoof wall and cause a pocket of infection. Because of how sensitive that area is, this issue can be very painful. You can treat them with Animalintex Poultice Pads which help to draw out hoof abscesses and other infections. You can also ll a shallow pan with water and Epsom salt and let the hoof soak for about 20 minutes two to three times a day, or as often as your horse will tolerate. Hopefully, this will soften up the sole enough, so the abscess drains naturally. Once it drains, keep the area clean by applying a wrap or therapeutic boot.Lastly, laminitis, or founder, is an inammation of the laminae, which are the sensitive tissues that provide blood ow and sit between the hoof wall and the bone that’s inside the hoof. This structure gets swollen and inamed which causes pain and pressure inside the hoof, which causes lameness. If you notice your horse limping and there are no signs of an abscess, call your podiatrist or veterinarian immediately. Unfortunately, laminitis is irreversible, so treatment largely involves pain management and supportive care. Various medicines can be given to control the pain, and careful dietary management is critical to preventing laminitis from recurring.To summarize – It’s important to know your horse’s hooves and check their condition regu-larly, to prevent medical issues and to ensure a happy, healthy life.This super nice boy is Buddy. Buddy is a 1-year-old domestic shorthair who has been waiting for a home since January 6th. Buddy arrived here along with his house-mates because their owner passed away. Now, Buddy is looking for someone new to love and care for him. Buddy lived indoors only, with a single adult. Due to his shy nature, he would do best in an adult-only home. He takes time to warm up to people, but once he does, he’s an incredibly sweet cat. If you’d like to take a chance on him, stop by and meet him!Hello friends! This is Rebel with a high energy nature. He’d pre-fer a home with a patient owner looking for a hiking, running and playful buddy. He walks nicely on his gentle leader and could po-tentially have a female dog friend, but his preference is to be an “only child” and denitely no cats please. His ideal home would be with a family with children over 10 years. He’s been diligently working on his housetraining, so he’ll just need someone to help him continue to work on it. It’s all about patience, right? If you think Rebel is the per-fect t for you, please reach out to the Berkshire Humane Society kennel staff at (413)-447-7878 ext. 126. He’d love to have a meet and greet with you!

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9Berkshire 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!Meet Daytona!! This beautiful girl is such a gem! She would do well with a male dog (meet required as she is picky about companions). She has lived in a home her entire life. Unfortunate-ly her family fell on hard times and had to move out of state and couldn’t take her with them. So she is a little confused right now!Daytona is a little unsure in new settings but just needs a little help gaining condence! She is eager to please and a quick learn-er! She is house trained and crate trained. Did we mention she loves kids!! When she saw the small human in her foster home she came alive! She would love to have a small human in her life everyday.If you are looking for a beautiful girl who is just waiting for a place to call her home, Daytona is the girl for you!Out of the Pits, Inc.P.O. Box 2311Albany, NY 12220Info@outofthepits.orgHey everyone! Meet Cruiser! She’s ready to cruise on into your life. She’s a girl who likes to be on the go, as she’s no slouch. Some of her favorite activities are running and hik-ing, so she’d love an adopter who enjoys the great outdoors and spending time with her, as she absolutely adores her people. Her ideal home would be with family members aged 18-years plus. Cruiser would benet from having adopter(s) who are knowledgeable and willing to continue on with her higher learning, because there are life skills she’s still working on, including house training and leash manners. She’ll need to be the only pet, as she’s not a fan of other dogs or cats. If you’ve got what it takes to help Cruiser thrive, please reach out to the kennel staff at (413)-447-7878 ext. 126.http://www.taizeshepherdkennel.com/This handsome 2-year-old Pit bull terrier mix is Lucky! He would make a wonderful hiking, running or walking buddy. He’s denitely an adventure seeker who just wants to be with you as much as he can. He likes to play with other dogs, but can be a bit “much” for some, so he’ll need a dog friend who can keep up with him. Lucky is working on his house training, but is nding it a bit difcult in the shelter environment. So, he’ll need a patient owner who is willing to work with him on training, since he’s smart and loves to learn. Having lived with a small child that he was good with but a bit too exuberant, staff feel it best he go to a home with children aged 5 years and older. If you think Lucky will be a good t for you and your family, please reach out to the Berkshire Humane kennel staff at (413)-447-7878 ext. 126 or swing by the shelter to meet him!

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10Wildlife and RodenticideLearn how you can manage rodent problems without rodenticide Massachusetts residents, business owners, and building managers can choose from a variety of management options to prevent and resolve rodent problems. By avoiding roden-ticide, especially second-generation anticoagulant rodenticides (SGARs), you can greatly reduce the risk of harm to wildlife as well as pets. How to proactively prevent rodent problems • Remove any sources of food rodents eat, especially bird seed and garbage. • Close or repair any exterior openings that may allow rodents to enter. • Secure any food for pets, poultry, and livestock in animal-proof containers. How to safely respond to rodent problems • Start with baited snap traps. They provide a faster and more humane death, and they are comparatively safer and easier to use. • As a last resort, only use poisons enclosed in bait stations, and follow the product label instructions. • f you hire a company, choose a licensed provider that uses integrated pest management approaches and avoids relying solely on poisons. Ask your provider for alternative options instead of SGARs. Rodenticide consumption harms wildlife Second-generation anticoagulant rodenticides (SGARs) prevent blood from clotting, causing fatal internal hemorrhage. SGARs can poison wildlife in two ways: 1) primary poisoning when a non-targeted animal eats the bait and dies several days later, or 2) secondary poison-ing when a predator or scavenger eats prey that has eaten the poisoned bait. Anticoagulants bioaccumulate, or build up over time, in animals that consume large quantities of rodents that have consumed these poisons. Secondary poisoning has been documented in birds of prey like eagles, hawks, and owls, as well as mammals like foxes, shers, bobcats, and coyotes. In Massachusetts, secondary poisoning from SGARs were found to be the conrmed cause of death of two bald eagles in 2021 and a contributing cause of death to another bald eagle in 2023. SGAR poisoning also can be attributed to the non-targeted death of many of those other predatory species listed above. It is important to note that unsupervised dogs and cats are vulnerable to this type of exposure. In addition to impacts on animal circulatory systems, recent research in California indicates secondary rodenticide poisoning can compromise the immune system of carnivores, including bobcats, making them more susceptible to diseases such as mange. Rodenticide use has become more restricted Consumer retailers are now federally prohibited from selling SGARs, meaning most people no longer buy them for use at home. Current use of SGARs is limited to li-censed pest controllers, as well as certain agricultural users. Except under highly regulated permitting conditions, it is illegal for anyone to place any poisons outdoors (including rodenticides). You can help Individual and community decisions on rodent management, such as removing or securing food sources and utilizing alternative control measures, can make a difference for wildlife species all around us. If you see wildlife showing signs of illness, please contact a licensed wildlife rehabilitator for advice before taking any action. You also can help by sharing these resources with friends and family members. More rodent resources: • Find a licensed Problem Animal Control agent • Google how to le a pesticide complaint• Controlling Rodents and Regulating Rodenticides | US EPA • Researchers Investigate Rodenticides and Mange in Bobcats | US NPS (2017) • Risks of Rodent Poisons to Birds of Prey (TuftsNow, 2020) • How to Spoil an Owl’s Dinner (Massachusetts Wildlife, 2014)

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12ReliableReliablePet 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 . . .Guinea PigsBold, 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 01085413-568-69641. Don’t come from Guinea. ...2. Are not related to pigs at all. ...3. Don’t get on with rabbits. ...4. Like to chat to each other. ...5. Scent mark their stuff. 6. Only sleep for short periods. ...7. Can break dance. ...8. Have an odd number of toes. . .

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13Choosing a Guinea Pig The guinea pig is an animal of many rsts. It was the rst rodent to be domesticated, one of the rst small mammals in space – on the Soviet space ship Vostok – 3A No. 1 on March 9, 1961, along with a mouse, and a dog called Chernuska. It is also an ideal rst pet for many people. The guinea pigs, also known as a cavie (pronounced “ka-vee”), is an infrequent biter and unfussy eater popular among breeders and casual pet owners alike.History and Origin There is a lively debate over the origin of the guinea pig’s common name, since guinea pigs are neither from New Guinea nor are they pigs. Instead, they are rodents from the grasslands of South America who were domesticated by the Incan Indians. They were kept for food – cooked in a style not unlike that of a suckling pig – and also sacri-ced to deities. European explorers returning from the New World in the 1500s brought the guinea pig back with them. In the 1770s they came to America as pets and fancy animals.Guinea pigs are “porcupine-like” rodents rather than “rat-like” rodents. They are more closely related to South American maras, woodchucks and chinchillas than to gerbils or mice. Wild cavies, Cavia aperea, have small, streamlined bodies and weigh only about half as much as their domestic cousins, Cavia porcellius. Domestic guinea pigs are usually around 10 to 12 inches long and weigh between two and three pounds at maturity. They have short legs, stocky bodies and no tails. Unlike many other rodents, guinea pigs are bad climbers and do not pick up food in their paws or store it in hordes for later. Their life expectancy is between 5 to 10 years.Appearance Domestic guinea pigs range in color from agouti-brown like their wild grassland relatives to glossy silver or lilac – there’s even a tortoiseshell variety. Some guinea pigs have smooth coats while others look like punk-rockers with perpetual bed head. You can get a shorthaired American guinea pig or a Peruvian with 18-inch-long locks. The variety seems almost endless.Housing Healthy, happy guinea pigs require some very specic housing considerations. They produce amazing amounts of feces, turn over any unstable container and may defecate and urinate in their feed and water containers. They play with the water bottle nipple and spit a premasticated slurry of food into their sipper bottles. With these antics in mind, simplicity in housing is best.A plastic, metal or wire cage of at least 18 by 18 inches will provide enough room for one adult but your cavie would probably enjoy more room. Since cavies do not jump or climb very well, the tops of their cages may be left open if the walls are at least 9 to 10 inches tall. Of course, if any ‘pred-ators’ such as inquisitive cats or dogs are in the home, a tight lid should be afxed to the top. The ooring of the cage may be either solid or wire. A wire mesh of 12 by 38 mm will minimize the Small Animal Hutchchance of leg injuries but a solid oor is preferred. Guinea pigs require a great deal of good housekeeping. Pro-vide an abundant amount of clean, absorbent, relatively dust-free bedding that is easy to replace. Good examples include recycled shredded paper and non-scented wood shavings. Avoid cedar chips and other wood shavings that have oils. Corncob bed-ding often harbors bacteria and fungi, and is not recommended. Whatever bedding you use, remove and replace it frequently to prevent a buildup of high ammonia levels from your pet’s urine and feces. Ammonia can stress your animal, irritating its nostrils, eyes, and lungs. If left unattended, these symptoms can become life threatening. Good ventilation is imperative. If the cage has solid sides, change all of the bedding at least twice a week.Cavies need places to hide. An upside down cardboard or wood-en box with a cut-out door work well. Replace boxes if they get soiled or chewed on. Although they don’t climb well, guinea pigs still like to walk up ramps and climb into low, secure shelves. They also enjoy rooting and burrowing in hay or straw.Feeding Creatures of habit, cavies do not adapt readily to changes in texture, appearance, taste and presentation of their food and wa-ter. Expose your young guinea pig to small amounts of different guinea pig chow and vegetables so they become accustomed to change and variety. The nutritional needs of adult non-breeding, non-lactating (producing milk for young) and inactive pet guinea pigs have not been as well established as for some of the other plant eating small mammals. Fresh guinea pig pellets (18 to 20 percent crude protein and 10 to 16 percent ber) make up the mainstay of the diet, along with an unlimited supply of high quality timothy hay. (Alfalfa hay is too high in calcium and protein for guinea pigs).Add vitamin C to the animal’s drinking water. Vitamin C is light sensitive and loses 50 percent of its potency in 24 hours. Keep the bottle covered (with a sock or foil) and change the water and add more vitamin C daily. Many guinea pigs like the taste of chewable vitamin C tablets and can be trained to eat them. The optimum vitamin C required in a day is one to two mg of vitamin C for every 100 grams of animal weight per day. A male’s aver-age adult weight is 900 to 1200 grams and female’s is 700 to 900 grams. Since vitamin C is water soluble and the kidneys excrete excess amounts, overdosing is rarely a problem.Special Concerns Since your pet is more active at night, he requires quiet periods during the day for rest. Place the cage in an area free of noise, commotion and excitement. Guinea pigs tolerate cool tempera-tures better than heat. High heat coupled with high humidity may cause heat stroke. Keep the cage out of direct sunlight in a room with a temperature range of 65 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit.All guinea pigs MUST have vitamin C (ascorbic acid) added to their diet. Their bodies, like the human body, cannot manufacture the vitamin. Although commercial pellets add vitamin C, the potency is often lost within ve to six weeks from the date on the package. Assume that your pet is not getting enough vitamin C and supply vegetables and fruit such as guava, orange and lemon with peel, parsley, brussel sprouts, broccoli, collards, mustard greens and kale all of which have 20 mg of vitamin C or more per ounce. www.petplace.com

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14CAT’S MEOWSymptoms of Rat Poisoning in CatsAnticoagulant rodenticide: Clinical signs may not occur until several days or even weeks after ingestion. Signs may include:• Lethargy• Pale gums• Bruising (on the skin, gums, whites of the eyes)• Black stool• Vomiting up blood• Difculty breathing• Swelling of the joints• Blood in the urine Bromethalin: Signs noted with toxicity depend on the amount your cat ingested. If a large amount, symptoms usually begin within a few hours. These may include muscle tremors, hyperthermia (high body temperature), seizures, or death. If a small amount of bait is eaten, signs may not be noted for 1 to 4 days after ingestion. Usually, your cat will show signs of weakness and incoordination of the limbs, muscle tremors, paralysis, or cranial nerve abnormalities such as unequal pupil sizes or abnormal eye movements.Vitamin D3: Clinical signs can be seen even at low exposure doses. A cat may become lethargic, start vomiting, drink more water than normal, have a higher volume of urine than normal, and have seizures. Death is possible.Causes of Rat Poisoning in CatsRat poisoning occurs when cats come into contact with or consume rat bait or traps, or when a cat hunts and eats a rodent that has ingested the bait. Pet parents may see their cats consuming the bait or they may see evidence that a trap or bait has been tampered with, and suspect their cat got into it.What Happens if a Cat Eats a Rat That Has Been Poisoned?Relay toxicosis, where a cat eats a rodent that has consumed bait, can occur. Cats that eat multiple rodents over time could be at higher risk for toxicity because the toxin can build up in tissues. Anti-coagulant and vitamin D3 poisons are stored in the liver of the rodent that ingests them. As a result, the more bait ingested by a rodent over time means a higher dose of toxin exposure for a feline hunter.Alternatively, with bromethalin-containing baits, only a small amount needs to be ingested by a rodent to cause the rodent’s death. A larger amount needs to be ingested by a cat to see signs of tox-icity. Therefore, a cat eating a rodent who consumed a bromethalin bait is not likely to die from it.How Veterinarians Diagnose Rat Poisoning in CatsMost often, veterinarians diagnose rodenticide poisoning based on a client history of seeing an exposure.When arriving at the hospital, a veterinarian will ask what type of rat poison your cat was exposed to, how much, and how long ago. Bring the package of rat bait with you if possible. Since there are multiple types of rat poison and treatment varies depending on the type of bait ingested, it is import-ant to come with as much information as possible.Based on the type of bait your cat ingested or was exposed to, your veterinarian will most likely recommend baseline lab work, including a complete blood count and chemistries to check liver, kidneys, and electrolytes.Anticoagulant rodenticide: If it has been a long enough time after exposure to this type of roden-ticide, there may be evidence of bleeding (anemia) and prolonged coagulation times. If the cat is treated immediately after exposure, lab work may not be done initially; instead, it will be done at the end of the vitamin K treatment period.Bromethalin: A specic diagnostic test is typically unhelpful. General lab work, including a com-plete blood count and chemistries may be performed.Vitamin D3: A complete blood count and chemistries are performed. Bloodwork abnormalities include high blood calcium and phosphorus levels and elevated kidney values.Unfortunately, there is no one superior “rat bait test.” Diagnosis of rat bait toxicity is made based on a combination of history, physical exam ndings, and lab work.Treatment of Rat Poisoning in CatsImmediate treatment after ingestion or exposure to rat poison provides the best possible outcome, so you must take your cat to the veterinarian right away.Giving hydrogen peroxide orally to induce vomiting is not advised, as the dose needed to cause vomiting can cause severe stomach swelling. Only a veterinarian should induce vomiting in a cat.Decontamination is performed immediately at the veterinary clinic. Vomiting is induced using special medication. Once the veterinarian is satised with what the cat vomits up, medication will be given to cease further vomiting. Activated charcoal may be given to bind any possible toxin in the gastrointestinal tract of the cat so it can be eliminated from the body in the feces.Anticoagulant rodenticide: If a cat gets to the vet immediately after exposure, he is likely not to be showing any signs of tox-icity. Decontamination will be performed. The patient is usually treated on an outpatient basis with vitamin K and will have coagulation time and lab rechecked after treatment. The length of vitamin K treatment needed depends on the type of anticoagulant rodenticide ingested. Treatment for rst-generation products, which are less toxic, is about 10 days, and for second-generation products it can be up to 4 weeks.Once a cat is showing signs of bleeding, vitamin K alone will not be effective. The cat at this point it critically ill. Plasma transfusion to correct deciencies in coagulation factors, a blood transfusion, and/or oxygen therapy may be needed. A cat in this state needs 24-hour care and may die despite the most intensive treatment.Bromethalin: Treatment is supportive, as no antidote is available. Decontamination is performed, and multiple doses of activated charcoal may be given. Other medications include:• Muscle relaxers to treat tremors• Diuretics to reduce brain swelling• Anti-seizure medications to control seizures• Intravenous lipid emulsion to help eliminate the toxin from the bodyDepending on the amount of exposure to the poison, treatment may vary.Vitamin D3: Treatment is largely supportive, as there is no antidote. Intravenous uids, intravenous lipid emulsion (early after exposure), and medications to help rid the body of excess calcium can be given. Bloodwork will be monitored over time to observe response to treatment. Prognosis is unclear once a cat is showing clinical signs, as kidneys and other tissues have already been damaged.Recovery and Management of Rat Poisoning in CatsIn general, the sooner a cat is treated after toxin ingestion, the higher the likelihood is for a positive outcome. Depending on the toxin and the length of time that has passed since ingestion, the cat may be able to go home the same day with treatment or may be hospitalized for several days to a couple of weeks.If toxicity is not addressed immediately, the damage caused by the toxin may not be reversible. The cat may develop lifelong health problems or even die.Prevention of Rat Poisoning in CatsThe best way to decrease the risk of exposure to rat poison is to avoid having any poison around your home. Consider using pet-safe products to eliminate rodents. If you must use a product containing a toxin, block off pet access to bait stations.Cats that are avid hunters are at a high risk for relay toxicosis by eating rats that have eaten toxins. Again, consider pet-safe alter-natives or prevent access to rats by keeping your cat indoors and preventing access to a space where rats have been seen.

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15CATS AND DOGS, OH MY!Spring Activities with PetsDr. Melody R. Conklin Spring has sprung! It’s time for you and your pet to shake off the winter hibernation with fun spring activi-ties. Now that the weather is warming up and days are getting longer, you and your pet can poke your noses outside. Or when spring showers hit, take the time to play and train indoors.Spring Activities for DogsGo Sniff Get outdoors with your dog and let them sniff to their heart’s content. A decompression walk is incredibly enriching for them since it puts their nose to work and provides loads of scent information for them to process. These kinds of walks are meant to be meandering rather than a faster pace, so they’re a great activity for senior dogs who may not be able to walk as fast or as far as they used to. Let your dog shove their face into the fresh grass and smell as long as they want. To make it even more fun, clip a long lead to the back of your dog’s harness, giving them more free-dom to roam the spring meadows and follow the scents they nd (while still being safely connected to you via the leash).Prepare for Summer Hikes Like humans, dogs need to get back into shape before tackling a long or difcult hike. Spring is a perfect time for your dog and you to get ready for more taxing activities in the summer. Start slowly building up your dog’s endurance by increasing their walks by 15 minutes every week. Visit an easy and short hiking trail on a nice spring day to get used to climbing uphill again. When a rainy spring day hits, practice some basic conditioning exercises you can do with your dog indoors to help build their body awareness and strength. Follow up these quick routines with some stretching and even some doggie massage.Learn a New Dog Sport or Join a Training Class Take advantage of the spirit of spring and learn something new and fun with your dog. If all you’ve ever done with your dog is a puppy class or basic obedience, you’re missing out on all the fun the world of dog training has to offer! Sign up for a tricks class or an intro-duction to nose work. Not only does this provide your dog with essential enrichment, but it makes your relationship with them stronger and burns extra energy — which your pup may have a lot of after a winter “hibernation.” Want to tap into your dog’s natural skills? Find a dog sport tailored for them to do the things they love. This may be something like dock jumping for water dogs, y ball for ball-obsessed dogs, or earth dog for dogs who love to dig. Dogs who love to herd can try their paws at treibball, which is urban herding at its nest. There are lots of sports to choose from — and you don’t need to worry about compe-tition unless that’s what you’re into. Do it just for fun!Build a Dig Pit or Search Area While you’re out getting started on your garden, your pup can get some digging in — in the right place, of course! Set up a kiddie pool lled with non-toxic play sand and bury some of your dog’s favorite toys for them to nd. Many dogs love to dig and providing them a place where it’s okay (and rewarding) to dig means they won’t try to “help” you in the ower bed. You can make an indoor ball pit version, where they sniff out treats scattered under all the plastic balls. For dogs who aren’t big diggers but want to hang out with you outside, set up a fun game of hide and seek, where you hide some of their favorite treats around the garden and help nd them.Spring Activities for CatsHarness Training If your cat is well socialized and condent, you could start harness training this spring and maybe head outside in the coming months. It’s important to remember that taking your cat outside is not the same as taking your dog out for a walk. Watch a professional training video to learn how to get your cat comfortable wearing a harness. And if you decide to head outside, start very slowly and stay close to your front door. You need to see how your cat will react and gradually get them comfortable moving further into the yard. It’s also a good idea to keep a cat carrier with you, just in case they get spooked or upset and need to be se-cured.Try a Catio If your cat likes being outside, a catio is a fantastic option to safely give them an outdoor experience. Catios come in all shapes and sizes. You can buy or make a simple version, much like a small chicken coop, with a wooden frame, chicken wire sides, and a roof, that you can easily move around. Or you can go all-in and have one constructed with direct access to your home. Even a collapsible kennel or puppy playpen with a top/cover work great if you need something simple that can be easily stored.Get Close to Nature Your cat doesn’t have to be outside to come face-to-face with a bird or squirrel. Add a couple of wildlife feeders to your yard and give your cat a nice window perch so they can enjoy the view. Every new person, place, or thing your pet experiences can enrich their lives. Use spring to inspire new activities, indoor and out, with your dog or cat. Petiq.com

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16BREEZY 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 StoreGroomingShaker 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 Cider(518) 477-7748By Appointment4162 State Route 20, Schodack, NY 12033Becky, Owner & StylistRenee, StylistCritter ClippersDog 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 Week

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17VCA 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 resCueBluebird Farm- (Cara Petricca/ Animal Sanctuary) Public service Announcement February/March is Skunk breeding season. Before you let your dogs out make a little noise and give skunks time to move out of your yard. If you come face to face with a skunk, stay calm and talk softly to let them know you’re there, skunks have poor eyesight. Skunks are very sweet natured animals and don’t want to spray you. Go about your business and avoid startling them.Skunks will give you several warnings if they are scared:1. They will stomp their front feet2. They turn their backs to you3. They will do a handstand4. They will spray If a skunk DOES spray your dog etc. here is our favorite technique and recipe:Firstly catch dog ( person etc) as quickly as possible - don’t let them roll or rub on any-thing. If you have rubber gloves wear them. BLOT the spray off with paper towels.Mix a paste from Dawn dish soap, peroxide, and baking soda and spread it on the area. Let it sit for ten minutes then rinse off and repeat. If this happens to be on a human or hair-less animal leave out the baking soda. The baking soda is sort of like an exfoliant and is really abrasive to bare skin. ( I know this from being sprayed in the face by a skunk I was trying to rescue lol- the baking soda made me look like I had chemical burns)... Another note: PLEASE WASH YOUR RECYCLING AND PLEASE DON’T LITTER. Every year I rescue skunks with cans, yogurt cups, domed-lid fast food drink cups, etc. stuck on their heads. If you come across a skunk with something stuck on its head, throw a towel over it and just pull the object off. Don’t touch wild animals with bare hands and some can have parasites or disease.Newhouse Wildlife Rescue Half of a poisoned mouse…that’s all it took to seal the fate of two Callimico monkeys at the Connecticut’s Beard-sley Zoo. This is according to an inspection report from the USDA. When your pest control companies tell you that poi-soning rodents does not affect your local wildlife, they couldn’t be more mistaken… After seeing the devastation that rat poison can cause, the zoo has changed its rodent protocols not to include any chemical rodent control. Wildlife rehabbers see it far too often. Rest in peace little ones. We will keep ghting this ght until laws are changed.Newhouse Wildlife RescueChelmsford, Massachusetts(978) 413-4085Bluebird Farm SanctuaryCheshire, MA. 413-446-3345

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18CANINE 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 RexLovingly home raised for pets, Therapy animals, & show.Socialized and started on litter box training.Our bunnies are so friendly and have the best temperaments!Specializing in rare, beautiful colors & blue eyes.ARBA registered rabbitry.Otis, MA - call/text 413-329-8904 – berkshirebunniesrabbitry@gmail.comFollow us on Facebook, Instagram & TikTok: @berkshirebunniesrabbitryberkshirebunniesrabbitry@gmail.com

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19Dog Wags-Breeds from A to ZDog of the MonthChinookMonthly Dog & Cat PawoscopePawoscoPesHAPPY BIRTHDAY The Chinook is a breed of sled dog, developed in the state of New Hampshire during the early 20th century. The Chinook is New Hampshire’s ofcial state dog. The Chinook owes its existence to one man: Arthur Treadwell Walden of Wonalancet, New Hampshire. The breed derives principally from one male ancestor born in 1917, named “Chinook”, who was Walden’s lead dog and stud. Walden began his efforts to create what he believed could be the ideal sled dog after an expedition to the Yukon where he worked along-side a native american guide and his dog named Chinook. Walden, in his effort to create his own Chinook, bred a Greenland Dog directly descended from the lead of the Peary North Pole expedition named Ningo with a large, tawny male Mastiff/St. Bernard mix named Kim. The pair had three pups. Walden’s wife, Katherine Sleeper Walden, named them Rikki, Tikki, and Tavi in reference to The Jungle Book. The Chinook is an affectionate and playful family companion with a special devotion toward children. It is a willing worker who is eager to please and enthusiastic to learn. The Chinook is highly trainable, adaptable, and versatile in his abilities. Gregarious with other dogs, the Chi-nook works well in teams and within family packs. The Chinook is a dignied dog; some may be reserved with strangers but should never appear shy or aggressive.Although still used for recreational dog sledding by some owners, Chinooks today appear to be used largely as family pets. Individuals are also used for dog-packing, search and rescue, skijoring, and obedience and dog agility trials.The Chinook has a compact muscular frame that well suits this gentle sled dog.These are dedicated, hard-working and versatile sled dogs. Performing their given task is their primary concern in life. In addition to sled-pulling, the breed also can be used for carting, obedience, yball, search and rescue, and packing. The build of the dog, coupled with its agile movement and drive, make it a great agility dog. One of the key breed characteristics is the Chinook’s temperament: calm, non-aggressive, with a willing, friendly disposition. Chinooks are bred to work in teams and should not exhibit dog-aggression. Notwithstanding its gentle, even temperament, the Chinook is a dignied dog. Most Chinooks make excellent pets for children, especially when the dog is raised with them (even with rough and tumble children). Most Chinooks tolerate children even when they haven’t had any contact with them. These dogs are incredibly loyal. They work totally reliably off-leash and really only want to be with you.PiscesFebruary 20–March 20 Pisces is the third and nal water sign of the astrological year. Sympathetic, compassionate, understanding, and gentle, pets born under this sign are sen-sitive to their environment and should be trained with a light touch. They also feel more secure if they have their own “spot” (pillow, bed, perch, or rug). They are loyal and very sensitive to their owner’s moods. Once they befriend someone, it’s for life. Pisces animals are also more curious that most, so keep an eye on them to avoid accidents! If your cat was born when the sun was in mutable water sign Pisces, which is associated with the twelfth house of spirituality, they’re probably a pretty magical pet. Anyone inuenced by the sign of the Fish tends to be exceptionally empathic and intuitive, so you’ll notice your furry sweetie is right by your side whenever you’re down, and they might surprise you by waiting at the door even ve minutes before a loved one comes knocking. They’re also apt to be super-sensitive and perhaps a bit needier than your average feline, so be sure to give them plenty of snuggles and love.

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