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2125 Humane Society Rd, Hudson, NY 12534 (518) 828-6044 Open daily Tuesday - Saturday 11:30 - 4 https://cghs.org/ Please call with any questions.CrazyHorseLadyMa@gmail.comFarm ChoresBarn CleanoutsFoal WatchEquine Exercise Pet SittingPersonal AssistantHousekeepingSeasoned ExperienceSolid ReferencesPictured with CGHS/SPCA Animal Care Technician Sammy Blish is Rachel, a 4-year-old Pointer mix who was surrendered for no fault of her own. She’s about 40 pounds, but we can guarantee she’ll be a lap dog! Rachel loves human affection; there’s no such thing as too close for her. She wasn’t socialized very much before coming to us, so a low-key household is best. She’s very nervous around cats and dogs, any pet in the home would need to also be low-key and respectful. If you’re home often and are looking for a companion to share the couch with, then Rachel is your gal! Help us help themThe Columbia-Greene Humane Society/SPCA (CGHS/SPCA) is asking the public for their help. The shelter’s food bank, which provides nearly 50,000 pounds of free food to the public each year, is running very low on dry cat and dog food. the CGHS/SPCA food bank, which provides nearly 50,000 pounds of free food to the public each year, is running very low on dry cat and dog food. The pet food bank is an essential tool in helping families who are experiencing nancial hardship to feed their pets and, by doing so, avoiding the need to surrender them to the shelter. Anyone can donate by either bringing dry food to the shelter, having food delivered to the shelter, or sending a donation to the food bank at CGHS/SPCA Food Bank, 111 Humane Society Road, Hudson, NY, 12534 and allowing us to purchase food. The food bank is open every day from 11:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. BIG, BULK BAGS OF DRY FOOD HELP US SERVE MORE FOOD TO MORE HUNGRY ANIMALS! The CGHS/SPCA food bank is an essential tool in helping families who are experiencing nancial hardship to feed their pets and, by doing so, avoiding the need to surrender them to the shelter.Anyone can donate by either bringing dry food to the shelter, having food delivered to the shelter, or sending a donation to the main food bank loca-tion at CGHS/SPCA Food Bank, 111 Humane Society Road, Hudson, NY, 12534 and allowing us to purchase food. The food bank is open every day from 11:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.Please remember that all donations are tax-deductible, and all donations are appreciated.For more information, please call (518) 828-6044 ext. 100 or email info@cghs.org.

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Paws to ReectSPOTLIGHT-Flea & Tick Prevention 4Cats Meow–The Right Environment for your Cat 4-5Cats Meow-This Side of Purradise 6Adoptables 2, 7Horse Corral-Mini Size, Mighty Personalities 8CGHS-Shelters & Natural Disasters 9 Natural Fun Facts 10Guide To Our Local Shelters 10Cats Meow–Affectionate Lovebugs or Aloof Loners? 11 Animalectory 12, 13Small Animal Hutch-Understanding your Fish’s Senses 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!! GayleBerkshire 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 78 Jump Into Spring. Phtot credit: Ron Fung MARCH MONTH CELEBRATIONS Adopt a Rescued Guinea Pig Month Dolphin Awareness Month Poison Prevention Awareness MARCH WEEK CELEBRATIONS Festival of Owls Week International Festival of Owls Week National Aardvark Week National Animal Poison Prevention Week Termite Awareness Week MARCH DAY CELEBRATIONS National Horse Protection Day National Pig Day World Wildlife Day  NationalAmericanPaddleshDay Key Deer Awareness Day LearnAboutButteriesDay Save a Spider Day

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4SPOTLIGHT Dos and Don’ts of Flea & Tick Prevention for Dogs and CatsBy Stephanie Silberstang, DVM, CVAFlea and tick preventatives are highly recommended in most parts of the United States and internationally for dogs and cats. Fleas can cause local itchiness, allergies, anemia, and can transport certain diseases, including tapeworms and the bubonic plague.Ticks are by far the scarier bug, as they can cause life-threatening diseases to dogs, includ-ing Lyme disease, Ehrlichiosis, Anaplasmosis, and Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever.Here are some Dos and Don’ts for concerned pet parents interested in safeguarding their furry friends from eas and ticks:The Dos: • Use a dog or cat ea and tick preventative. Over-the-counter ea and tick preventatives can be ineffective, or, in some cases, dangerous to your pet. • Treat your entire home if one ea is found on your dog or cat. Fleas do not live on your pet, but instead live within your home, and only attach themselves to your pet when they need a meal. • Keep your pet on a ea and tick preventative year-round . With warmer winters and evolving species, eas and ticks are no longer dying or hiding during winter months. • Choose the best ea and tick preventative for your dog or cat. Topical is not the best choice for dogs that love to swim daily, and oral prevention may not be the best for pets with food allergies, since they contain avoring. Ask your veterinarian to help you pick the best option for your pet.The Don’ts: • Don’t give ea and tick preventative medication to your cat if it is labeled for a dog . Dog preventatives contain more than 10x the amount of medication present in the cat version, which can be toxic to cats, leading to tremors, seizures, and hyperthermia. If you give a dog preventative to your cat, seek veterinary attention immediately, since symptoms can be delayed. • Don’t give topical ea and tick preventative medicines orally or vice versa. Always double check the label of your preventative to see how it should be administered. If you have a question, check with your veterinarian. • Don’t bathe your pet within 2 days of applying topical ea and tick preven-tion medicine . The preventative is absorbed systemically through the skin which can take up to 48 hours. If your dog likes to swim, consider an oral or collar form of prevention. • Don’t forget to check your pet after each excursion into heavily wooded areas or known tick-infestations. • Don’t hesitate to remove a tick from your pet. A tick can be removed by grabbing the head, where it inserts into the skin, and pulling it out. Do NOT burn the tick out, as you are at risk of burning your pet. If an engorged tick is found on your pet, tick-borne disease testing should be performed by your veterinarian in 4-6 weeks.The safest decision for your pet is to be proactive with ea/tick medications. It is easier to prevent infestations and the diseases that they may carry by preventative medication than by treating the diseases once they are present.It is also less expensive to keep your pet on year-round preventative care than to treat the disease once they are infected. In some ea/tick diseases, extensive diagnostics, hospital-ization, and treatment may be required.Selecting the Right Environmental Enrichment for Your Cat Cats, especially indoor cats, need stimulation and recre-ation to maintain good mental health. This is often referred to as “cat enrichment” or “environmental enrichment for cats.” So, what does that mean exactly? It means that for some cats to be “happy” and to minimize behavioral problems of indoor cats or multi-cat environments, it is important that your cat have plenty of toys, places to hide, perch, sleep, places or things to “scratch”, things to “watch”, and oppor-tunities to play. It is also important that cats have a place that they perceive as safe to eat, drink, and eliminate.This can be accomplished by providing an environment with cat trees, perches, bags, beds, toys, and trusted spots to sleep, eat, and use the litter box.The Keys to Environmental Enrichment for CatsRefugeSmall refuges where cats feel safe can be as simple as paper bags or cardboard boxes. Places to hide may be a favorite box under the bed, a pet taxi or carrier behind a chair, or on a towel on top of a dresser. Cats tend to prefer to be high where they can constantly assess their environ-ment. They prefer to sleep and rest in areas where they feel safe and are comfortable.In households with other cats or dogs, it is important that the cats be able to get away from the dog if they want to. This is especially true for litter boxes and food placement. They should be able to eat and eliminate without being bothered by dogs or other cats.Cat Furniture or PerchesSome authorities estimate that cats need about 500 square feet per cat to minimize behavioral problems. One way to help make a cat’s environment richer, bigger, and safer is to give them some extra vertical spaces. Perches are sim-ply a high area with a view or vantage point. Cats love to climb, and high places make them feel secure. From a high spot, cats can watch their environment and identify both prey and predator. Although your cat may be indoors only and out of reach of prey or predator, cats don’t lose this instinct.Cats feel most vulnerable when they sleep and generally prefer higher areas, such as a cat tree or perch, for their naps. Multiple perches or cat trees are ideal as some cats prefer to watch their environment from different vantage points. This is especially important in multi-cat house-holds, as more than one cat can “perch” at a time. Win-dowsill perches are also good and are discussed under “Visual Stimulation”.Cats Meow

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5Cat trees and perches come in a variety of sizes, styles, and colors. The most com-mon cat tree is made of car-pet and some form of pegs to hold the horizontal surfaces. They can vary from a couple feet tall to 10 to 12 feet tall with lots of branches and spots to sleep, play, or rest. They can be combined with beds, attached dangling toys, and scratching posts. Perches can be in or on a cat tree, on a piece of furniture such as a dresser or bed, or on a table.Scratching StimulationIt is important to have places in your home where your cat is welcome to scratch. This is especially important with claws; however, just because a cat does not have their claws, does not mean they don’t have the instinct to sharpen their claws, stretch, shed old nails, and leave their scent.Consider what substrates or locations your cat likes to scratch? Do they stretch out when they scratch? Do they scratch on furniture legs, the backs of fabric chairs, or on the carpeted oor? This information can help you determine which substrate you might prefer, such as cardboard, fabric, carpet, or wood and the surface type, such as vertical areas or horizontal surfaces. If your cat stretches out when they scratch, make sure you choose a scratching surface that is tall enough to accommodate your cat.Most scratching posts are made of tree material, cardboard, rope, or fabric, which can all work well. If you don’t know what your cat prefers, you may want to try a couple types to ensure your cat has a favorite. A good combination is a cardboard horizontal scratcher and a vertical carpeted post.Multi-cat households should have several scratching spots. Make sure the post is secure and cannot be moved or knocked over, either hurting or scaring your cat. Because scent marking is a part of scratching, cats often like to scratch in common places in the house where you or other cats spend time. This may include doorways, bedrooms, kitchens, or living rooms and in areas where they spend their time, such as near favorite sleeping and eating areas.Visual StimulationCats are often stimulated by their vision. They love toys that swing and move. A window bed is often a favorite spot for cats to nap or watch the outside environment. This is espe-cially good if they have a few trees or some natural elements, even birds. There are com-mercially available window beds, or you can move a chair, secure table, or bench next to a window for your cat. If a window is not an option, some cats like nature shows or videos.How to Pick Perches and PlaythingsFirst, let’s talk about cat enrichment activities. Consider your cat’s toy preference? Does your cat prefer toys that mimic birds, mice, or bugs? There are many types of toys made for cats and each cat has their own preferences as to what stimulates them to interact.Favored toys mimic predatory acts that cats would perform if they were to hunt for their food. Here are some tips to help you choose enrichment toys for cats:Desirable Features• Large enough to accommodate your cat• Safe and stable• Durable• Easy to clean and wash• Fun for your catIdeal ChoiceThe best products to provide environmental stimulation may depend on your home, your cat’s preferences, and your budget.Some good choices to enhance your cat’s environment may include:Cat Tree. A basic 5- to 6-foot-tall cat tree that has a perch and a spot for scratching where your cat can really stretch out. This perch should have a good view of the room and even a view to the outside if possible.Perch. Consider a window perch if your cat can see the out-doors. You can move a table, chair, or bench near the wall.Scratching Post. Buy a cardboard scratching post that can be used vertically or horizontally and place it as your cat prefers.Toys. Good toy choices are a feathery yer, some round crinkle balls, a laser pointer, and something stuffed with catnip to determine your cat’s preferences and offer a variety. If you’re looking for 4 unique, irresistible, and enriching cat toys in 1 amazing package, along with other goodies, check out 24Petwatch’s Cat PawPack!Shopping TipsChoose cat trees that are sturdy and safe. Evaluate them to determine if they are likely to “tip” or fall over.Don’t buy cat enrichment toys with strings, buttons, small parts, or loose fabric. Stuffed toys and rope toys are not recommended because cats can chew through them ingest-ing the fabric or chew off parts like the eyes, causing a life-threatening intestinal obstruction or a choking hazard.More TipsProvide more than one perch or surface for your cat.Make sure your cat has a good refuge to hide from other cats or dogs. Use a box, pet taxi, special bed.All chew toys have a certain element of risk involved. Extra strong chewers can tear apart just about anything. But with forethought and supervision, you can make your cat toys as safe as possible.Rotate toys periodically to keep your cat “interested”.www.petplace.com

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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 Caption: Daniel and Elly. Copyright © 2025 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/Mother and Son A little early for Mother’s Day, but perhaps deserving of a celebration: Berkshire Humane Society has a special offer, not for twins, though these two brown tabbies greatly resemble each other, but 9½-year-old Daniel and his 10-year-old mom, Elly. They previously shared a quiet home with a single human, but are now in need of new digs, indoors only, where their subdued lifestyle may continue. Daniel is very shy; Elly, friendlier, so with your help, starting with Mama, they may yet be coaxed a bit further out of their shells in a new environment that is light stimuli and bustle: low-volume on electronic media and voices, for instance, and not a lot of coming and going of family or visitors. Both will need your help to slim them down, as they enjoyed too much of a good thing in their previous environment—both are very overweight, which especially at their ages (mid-50s and early 60s, in human terms), is vital to their remaining healthy: something to discuss with the shelter’s staff as well as your vet.One line of action is literally action: access to indoor stairs; sturdy, kitty-friendly places to hop or climb up to, such as a table by a windowsill (until they shed a few pounds, it would be kind to provide an intermediate surface, such as a chair or bench, to help them up); perhaps an untippable cat tree to climb. Another would be your tempting them to chase toys, which you can initiate by low-tossing items a few feet away for them to catch up with. As for their weight: carefully portioned wet food (perhaps with a little water beaten into it to make “sauce” and help them feel full) would be preferable over kibble, which is higher in carbs. By the same token, avoid giving the pair commercially sold “treats,” which are the kitty equivalent of junk food—instead, offer a little bit of plain cooked chicken or deboned sh, such as a water-packed canned sardine. A special treat for YOU if you can open your heart and home to take these two on: Ask the staff about Berkshire Humane’s Buddy Program (for adopting more than one pet at one time) and also its Senior Discount (for cats over age 7), either of which would slim down their adoption fee a bit.Mom, Elly

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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. Pictured with CGHS/SPCA Adoption Counselor Sam Link is Diesel, a 1-year-old Dalmation mix who was surrendered to us at no fault of his own. He wasn’t socialized much, so new people can be a little intimidating to him. Once Diesel gets to know someone he turns into a totally different dog! He’s incredibly sweet and affectionate, but also playful! He loves his toys and will often get the zoomies for squeaky toys. He does okay with cats and dogs, but low key dogs and respectful cats would be best for him, due to his timid personality.Please call with any questions.This beautiful girl is Athena! Athena is a 5-year-old pit bull terrier/hound mix who is looking for love. She’s a very sweet and affectionate lady who would benet from structure and obedience classes to put her on a path to continued success in life. She was left up to her own devices in her prior home, so she would love to go to a new household with adopters willing to provide her with the time and care she craves from life. Athena just wants to be petted and loved. So much so, she’ll op on her back so she can be ooded with belly rubs. She enjoys being with her people and although she can be wary of men to start, she is ne with people once she gets to know you. Athena is dog social and has had several successful play sessions with both male and female dogs at the shelter. The ken-nel staff wouldn’t rule out female dogs in a future home, pending a dog introduction with any new canine friend. She would however, prefer a home with teens and up and no cats please. If you think you may have the best home environment for this girl, please reach out to the kennel staff at Berk-shire Humane Society – (413)-447-7878 ext. 126

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8Horse Corral Mini Size, Mighty Personalities – Meet Little Richard and Sir PaulBy Alex Valverde, Equine Advocates Communications Manager After rescuing thousands of equines for nearly three decades, there isn’t much that sur-prises us anymore. Our latest rescue, though, brought something new to our sanctuary. Last December, we welcomed an adorable pair of miniature equines: A miniature horse, who we named Sir Paul, and a miniature mule, who we named Little Richard.“It’s extremely exciting to have a mini mule join our sanctuary for the rst time,” said Equine Advocates Care Manager Melissa Murray. “However, it also brings additional train-ing challenges.”Little Richard was born in June of 2021, making him the youngest equine at our sanctuary. As cute as he is, he’s feral and requires special attention and care. We decided to take him in when we realized it’d be difcult for him to nd a good home.“It’s a sad fact that equines who are hard to handle often end up falling through the cracks because people grow impatient or frustrated when trying to work with them,” said Equine Advocates President Susan Wagner. “This is one of the main reasons we have taken in equines over the years who have had this behavioral issue.”While all equines require similar care, there are some differences between horses, ponies, donkeys, and mules that caretakers need to keep in mind to help these animals the best they can. Mules and donkeys are highly intelligent and extremely communicative, but in a slightly different way than horses. It’s important to recognize these differences. Fortunately, we have had experience working with these equines since our inception. Therefore, our or-ganization has knowledgeable and dedicated staff who can provide humane training meth-ods for Little Richard. We’ll work on leading and haltering skills and help him get used to being handled by people. Keeping him together with his friend Sir Paul will help with that goal.“Sir Paul is sociable, so seeing him interact positively with staff encourages Little Rich-ard to get closer to people,” said Murray. “We’ll need to show him that human touch isn’t something to be scared of.”Sir Paul was born in 2011 and is one of many miniature horses we’ve rescued over the years.“Many people think of them as baby animals due to their small sizes and irresistible cuteness,” said Wagner. “How-ever, that is not enough to protect them from abuse or end-ing up at low-end auctions. Rescuing a Miniature Equine or adopting one from organizations with adoption programs can be extremely rewarding if you have the proper facilities and experience to provide them with a loving home.”Providing a loving home has been our goal for every equine, big and small, we’ve rescued. Since we don’t adopt out and we care for our rescued equines for life, we’re able to work on their timeline and the pace they’re comfortable with. Welcome to the family, Sir Paul and Little Richard!

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9125 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 PawsA Lifeline for Pets and Their People: The Grubin Clinic at Columbia-Greene Humane Society/SPCA For countless families, a pet is more than just an ani-mal—they are a cherished companion, a source of uncondi-tional love, and a vital member of the household. Yet, when faced with unexpected veterinary costs, many pet owners nd themselves struggling to provide essential care. Rec-ognizing this critical need, the Columbia-Greene Humane Society/SPCA (CGHS/SPCA) is taking a monumental step forward with the development of the Grubin Clinic—a full-service, low-cost veterinary clinic on the shelter’s property in Hudson, NY. This initiative is not just about expanding services; it’s about strengthening the bond between pets and their own-ers while ensuring that nancial hardship never stands in the way of compassionate care. Designed with an intent to assist pet owners with limited incomes, the Grubin Clinic will provide affordable veterinary care to those who might otherwise be forced to make heartbreaking decisions due to nancial constraints.Addressing a Crucial Need For many in our community, nding accessible vet-erinary care is an ongoing challenge. The costs of vac-cinations, routine check-ups, spay/neuter surgeries, and emergency treatments can quickly become overwhelming, forcing some pet owners to delay or forego necessary medical attention. Unfortunately, this can lead to more severe health issues down the line, which not only are more expensive to treat, but also place undue stress on both pets and their families. The Grubin Clinic at CGHS/SPCA will serve as a safety net, ensuring that no pet suffers due to a lack of affordable care. By offering low-cost full-service animal health care, the clinic will help prevent treatable illnesses, reduce pet overpopulation through spay/neuter programs, and ulti-mately keep pets healthy and in loving homes.A Second Chance for the Most Vulnerable Beyond serving pet owners in need, the Grubin Clin-ic will play a vital role in rehabilitating some of the most vulnerable animals—those rescued from cruelty, neglect, and abandonment. Every year, CGHS/SPCA takes in ani-mals who have suffered unthinkable abuse. These animals require intensive medical treatment, often coupled with emotional rehabilitation, to prepare them for a second chance at life. With a dedicated rehabilitation facility on-site, the shelter will be able to provide prompt medical attention, reducing suffering and accelerating recovery. This means fewer barriers to adoption and more opportunities for these animals to nd loving, permanent homes.Strengthening Our Community The impact of the Grubin Clinic will extend far beyond individual pets. When animals are healthy, families are hap-pier, and communities become stronger. Studies show that pets improve mental health, reduce stress, and foster social connections—especially for seniors and individuals facing difcult circumstances. Ensuring that pets receive proper care means keeping these valuable bonds intact. Furthermore, a healthier pet population translates to fewer animals entering shelters due to medical neglect or owners’ inability to afford care. By proactively addressing veterinary needs, the clinic will alleviate the burden on rescue organizations and help reduce the number of animals in shelters – as well as leaving extra space open for the next animal who comes to our doors for help.A Vision for the Future The Grubin Clinic represents a transformative invest-ment in the welfare of both pets and people, as well as a historic milestone for our 70-year-old organization. By providing accessible veterinary care, offering a sanctuary for animals in crisis, and fostering responsible pet owner-ship, CGHS/SPCA is setting a new standard for communi-ty-driven animal welfare in our two home counties and well beyond. As the planning phases progress, support from the com-munity will be essential to bring this vision to life. Whether through donations, efforts, or advocacy, every contribution will help ensure that this clinic becomes a reality. Together, we can create a future where no pet suffers due to nancial hardship, and every animal has the opportunity to thrive. The Grubin Clinic is more than a veterinary facility—it’s a promise to our community’s pets and the people who love them. And that’s a cause worth supporting. Feel free to call us with any questions at (518) 828-6044 or visit our website at www.cghs.org. Ron Perez is the Pres-ident/CEO of the Columbia-Greene Humane Society/SPCA and a Peace Ofcer/Investigator with their SPCA depart-ment. He may be reached at ronperez@cghs.org.

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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 . . .GOLDFISH 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 01085413-568-6964• Goldsh’s popularity started in China during China’s Tang Dynasty• There are 200 varieties of goldsh.• Not all goldsh are gold, and they can change color• They can outgrow your reg-ular sh bowls.• They have good vision• They have a fantastic mem-ory• Wild goldsh are river dwellers• Goldsh will eat plants, insects, smaller sh, sh eggs, and other small creatures• A female goldsh can lay thousands of eggs at once.

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11Cats: Affectionate Lovebugs or Aloof Loners?Cats may have a bad reputation as being aloof and less affectionate than dogs, but that doesn’t mean they don’t love their owners. Cats can be just as affectionate and loving toward their owners as their canine coun-terparts, but it can be more difcult for humans to read their feline friend’s feelings.Cats may sometimes act like they don’t care, but if you pay attention, your cat is likely sending you many signals that you are their favorite humanHow to Tell if Your Cat Loves You1. Your Cat Always Just Happens to Be in the Same Room as YouPerhaps your feline friend doesn’t enjoy cuddling with you on the couch as much as a dog might. Maybe they don’t seem as excited about belly rubs and head pats as you would like.Cats can be particular about the amount of physical affection they can tolerate, but you have likely noticed that your cat frequently just happens to be hanging out in the same room you are in, watching you from afar. If you get up to go to a different room, don’t be surprised if your kitty friend is close behind.Cats tend to prefer to be near their favorite people. If your cat loves you, she will love being near you, even if she doesn’t want you to be too close all the time.2. Your Cat Gives You Kitty Kisses (The Slow Blink)The slow blink is one sign of kitty affection that is often missed by humans if you don’t know what to watch for. If you notice your cat staring at you, slowly closing and opening her eyes, she is trying to tell you that she trusts you and cares about you.Cats only exhibit this behavior around people and cats they trust. Cat experts affectionately refer to this slow blinking behavior as a “kitty kiss.”Next time you see your cat slowly blinking at you, try mimicking her slow blinks to return her kitty kisses! What better way to tell your beloved pet that you love her than in her own language?3. She Gives You Love BitesSome cats express their affection through love bites. You can tell the difference between a love bite and an aggressive bite by how hard she bites you. If it hurts, you better watch out. A light, playful bite that merely tickles is one way your cat lets you know she loves you. If your cat likes to nibble on your toes or arm, she wants to play with you. You are likely one of her favorite humans!4. She Shows You Her Fluffy TummyCats don’t expose their tummies to just anyone! If your cat is lying or rolling on the oor with her tummy up, she is vulnerable. She will only get into this position when she feels safe and trusts you. Cats show their tummy when they feel protected and loved.She may also be trying to entice you to play. Cats know that no human can resist petting a uffy kitty belly. Be careful if you try to pet her tummy, however, as it is likely to be a trap!5. She Headbutts YouA headbutt is another way in which cats can tell you that they love you. When a cat headbutts or rubs her head against you, she is depositing pheromones from special glands on her face onto you. Cats do this to mark their own property. If your cat makes a habit out of headbutting you, they mean to let other cats know that you are their special human. Some cats may butt their head against you forcefully, whereas others prefer to simply nuzzle up against their favorite humans.6. She Meows at YouCats rarely meow at other cats, with the exception of kittens meowing to their mothers. Adult cats generally only meow to get the attention of humans.Since cats rst began living with humans, they have learned that vocalizations are the best way to communi-cate with us, a species that just won’t stop talking. A cat’s meow is their closest approximation of communi-cating in a way that humans can understand.Cats meow at humans to get our attention, ask for food, or simply say “hello.” When you meow back and forth with your cat, you can think of it as sort of a cat/human pidgin language. Your cat is trying to speak your human language, and you, in turn, are giving your best attempt at speaking their cat language. Some people also theorize that cats purposely meow the way they do to imitate human babies in order to get humans to want to care for them. 7. She Brings You GiftsYour cat may also show her appreciation for all you do for her by bringing you gifts. While you may not appreciate a dead mouse or bird in your bed at seven in the morning, your cat is only thinking of you when she selects such presents. Cats are natural hunters, and she only wants to share with you, her best friend, the spoils of her latest hunting trip.Your cat has probably noticed that you don’t seem to bring home your own kills too often, so she is only try-ing to make sure you are well-fed when she shares hers. You open a can to give her food every day. She only wants to return the favor.8. She Makes Biscuits on YouWhen cats are especially content, they exhibit a behavior called kneading, or “making biscuits.” This is when cats push their paws in and out on a soft surface, pulling lightly with their claws in an alternating left/right pattern.This is likely a left-over behavior from kittenhood, when kittens use this motion to stimulate milk ow from their mother cat. Cats likely do this in the presence of their favorite humans because they see their humans as their parents.Another theory for why cats “make biscuits” is that this is simply another way for cats to leave their scent on their favorite things and people to claim them as their own. 9. You Get Her Purr Motor RunningCats purr when they are happy and feel safe and content. If your cat purrs every time you pet or play with her, it means she feels very com-fortable around you and is happy you are there. The louder your cat purrs in your presence, the happier she is to be around you. If your cat is purring loudly, she feels relaxed, safe, and happy. If your cat really loves you, you may notice her purrs becoming more intense when you pet her.10. She Grooms YouIf your cat licks your hair or ears, she considers you part of her family. Cats that are close to one another often groom each other. This builds friendship and trust amongst a group of cats, as well as establishes a group scent amongst the members of the group.Cats don’t groom members of other species, including humans, often, so if your cat tries to groom you, you know she considers you part of her close family.11. She Naps With YouCats are very particular about where they sleep. In the wild, cats are extremely vulnerable while asleep, so they don’t choose their napping places lightly. Cats are very careful to conceal themselves from pos-sible threats before they doze off. If your cat chooses to nap near you, or even on your lap, know that you mean something special to her. If she feels safe enough with you to fall asleep near you, she really trusts you.12. Her Tail Twitches When She Sees YouYou can tell a lot about a cat’s mood by its tail. When cats are partic-ularly happy, they will hold their tail up high with the tip twitching slightly. Just make sure they aren’t swishing their tail back and forth quickly, which indicates agitation rather than contentment.If your cat approaches you with her tail held high, twitching the end ever so slightly, she is happy to see you. Cats are happiest when they are near their favorite people.Your 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.comCats Meow

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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

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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.”413-623-834013Understanding Your Fish’s Senses Hundreds of thousands of years ago, long before man appeared on the earth, sh were already swimming in the oceans. At that time they were the most highly developed form of life in existence. Today fewer creatures on earth are as interesting and unique as sh. They are cold-blooded vertebrates, with a backbone and a jaw, and they have ns instead of limbs. With a few exceptions, sh have survived in an environment completely different from ours. Like all other living organisms, sh have survived by acquiring information about the environment through the senses – senses of sight, smell, taste and touch – and a few other special senses that help them live underwater.Touch and the Lateral Line SystemIf you’ve ever watched sh swimming in an aquarium, you’ve probably noticed that they rarely bump into anything. They may be swimming directly toward the side of the aquarium, but at the last second they make an abrupt turn and swim merrily on their way. What you are observing is the result of a special sense organ called the lateral-line system, which provides sh with information about its external world.The lateral line system is a collection of small sensory patches (neu-romasts) underneath the scales on the skin, or just under the skin. They can be seen as a line of small pores that runs down the sides of a sh from head to tail. These pores are not restricted to the lateral line, however, but are also distributed all over the sh, particularly on the head. The pores serve to detect pressure changes in the surrounding water. A sh sets up his own pressure wave in the water that is detected by other sh. He also sets up a pressure wave in front of himself, and when he swims near a rock or the wall of the aquarium, these pressure waves are distorted, and changes are quickly detected by the lateral line system, enabling the sh to swerve or to take other suitable action. It is this ability that allows a school of sh to change direction at the same time without bumping one another.Nerve endings throughout the skin react to the slightest pressure and change of temperature.Sense of Smell and TasteFish have a good sense of smell and often hunt by smell. In most sh, the organs of smell consist of two pouches, one on either side of the snout, which are lined with nerve tissue that is highly sensitive to odors from substances in the water. A nostril at the front of each pouch allows water to enter the pouch and pass over the tissue, then to leave the pouch through a nostril at the back. Unlike humans, however, there is no connection between the nostrils and the throat. Just like in humans, taste and smell work together through nostrils and taste buds located in the mouth. However, many sh have taste buds located on the their heads, on the barbels and on the outside of the body. These taste buds have the ability to distinguish the difference between sweet, sour, salty and bitter.HearingWe take sound for granted while moving through the blanket of air we call atmosphere. But we hear very lit-tle under water. Fish have ears, too, although you can’t see them. They are located within their bodies as well as in the lateral line system. Fish can hear sounds in the water and can probably hear sounds made on shore if they are loud enough. What makes them able to hear underwater is that they have no outer ears or eardrums to receive sound vibrations. Sound vibrations are rst transmitted from the water through the sh’s body to its internal ears, which are divided into two sections: An upper section (pars superior) – which provide the sh with a sense of balance. The canals also have sensory hairs that detect the rotational acceleration of the uid,and a lower section (utriculus) – This is the section that provides the sh with the ability to hear. EyesightNo matter how good your eyesight and how clear the water, the un-derwater world looks hazy, distorted and sometimes downright murky to humans. This is because when you’re under water, the cornea isn’t nearly as good at bringing light to a focus as it is on land. Fish have special adaptations that allow them to see underwater and at great depths, and some sh even see in color. Because of the way light is re-fracted in water, sh have a wide “cone of vision” of about 83 degrees. It is like looking up from the base of an imaginary funnel. As a sh goes deeper, his window to the outside world grows. Even more inter-esting, if the water surface is relatively smooth, a sh can look up and see a mirror-like image of the bottom. This allows him to be aware of either prey or predator beneath him. Most sh, because they cannot turn their heads, can see to the right and to the left at the same time. This gives them all-round vision. To allow them to judge distances they have a small area in front in which they can focus on with both eyes.Since the role of eyelids in land animals is to keep the eyes moistened and to protect them from harsh sunlight, there doesn’t seem to be much need so sh don’t have eyelids. Fish’s eyes are kept moistened by the ow of water and there is seldom any bright sunlight to hurt their eyes. However, in an aquarium, sudden bright light can frighten them or damage their eyes. It is best to introduce light gradually by turning on a room light rst before turning on the aquarium light. Provide plenty of hiding places, too.Swim BladderIn the weightless underwater world, human divers use equipment known as buoyancy compensator devices (BCDs), which allow them to maintain neutral buoyancy. These are vests that contain bladders of air that can be adjusted to allow the diver to go deeper into the water or rise to the surface.Fish have their own built-in device called the swim bladder, which is a gas-lled sac in the abdomen that helps them to maintain buoyancy in the water. Like a BCD, the sac inates if the sh needs to be more buoyant and deates if the sh needs to be less buoyant. Goldsh and some other sh are members of the cyprinid (minnows and carp) family and are physostomous, which means there is an open connection between the esophagus and the swim bladder. The bladder is called a pneumocystic duct, and it allows additional adjustment of buoyancy by letting air out through the digestive tract.It was believed that before sh evolved this buoyancy organ, they would have needed to swim constantly in order to maintain their depth. Many experts on sh evolution believe that the eventual development of the swim bladder allowed sh to swim slower and become more ma-neuverable and agile, and that these free swimming habits were accom-panied by changes in body form and n shapes, forms and function.Our sh are really not so different from us – they see, taste, smell and hear – but they do it in an interesting underwater world. Understanding how your sh relate to their world will help you provide them with the best care. www.petplace.com

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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

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15Dog Wags-Breeds from A to ZDog of the MonthMonthly Dog & Cat PawoscopePawoscoPesHAPPY BIRTHDAY!PISCES(February20–March20)COCKER SPANIEL The Cocker Spaniel, also called the American Cocker Spaniel, is one of the world’s most-loved dog breeds because of their big, round eyes; long ears; sweet face; and playful personality. They were developed as hunting dogs, but Cockers gained their wide popularity as all-around companions. Those big, dark eyes, that sweet expression, and those long, lush ears that placed the Cocker as America’s most popular breed for many years. The coat comes in enough colors and patterns. Cockers are eager playmates for kids and are easily trained as companions and athletes. Their well-balanced body is sturdy and solid and 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. Cocker Spaniel coats occur in a variety of colors, including black, liver, red, and golden in solids. Also, black and tan, and sometimes liver and tan are known, as well as a variety of color mixtures of those solid colors including roans, roan and tans, tricolors, and those solid colors with additional white markings. While Cocker Spaniels are sporting dogs, they don’t require high levels of exercise to stave off excess energy. They typically en-joy playing with toys, fetching a ball, or walking with their family members a few times a day as forms of exercise. At home, these sweet-tempered pups love being close to their people and make great family dogs. Pisces pets embody tenderness and empathy. These loyal and gentle souls are deeply in tune with their surroundings and thrive in environments lled with kindness. Soft, understanding training methods resonate best with them, ensuring they feel safe and supported. Providing a cozy retreat—a favorite blanket, bed, or quiet corner—gives them the security they crave. Pisces pets have a remarkable ability to sense their owner’s emotions, forming unbreak-able bonds with those they trust. Their curiosity, though endearing, may lead to occasional mischief, so keeping a watchful eye ensures their safety. Nurture their soulful nature, and you’ll have a devoted companion for life. DOGPisces governs the invisible and unseen world of inspiration and imagination. These are the dreamers, mystics, and musicians of the zodiac. Deeply sen-sitive and highly intuitive, they need space and quiet. Pisces canines are gentle souls—kind and caring to a fault. They love being close to their humans, sometimes even following them around and sleeping under the covers. They also sense your moods, which is why they often make excellent therapy dogs. Dozing in a sunny spot with some chill music is their happy place.CATDreamy and intuitive, the Pisces cat is ruled by Neptune. These cats have a gentle and empathetic nature, often providing comfort and understanding to those around them. Pisces cats are sensitive and can be deeply affected by the emotions of their human companions. They have a mystical, almost other-worldly presence, often seeming to be lost in their own thoughts. These felines thrive in peaceful, serene environments and appreciate quiet, cozy spaces where they can relax and dream.

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