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animal life

Tri-State Area Pet News

Your pet. Our purpose.

Inside:

The Rumors page 3


BHS 20th Dog Walk page 5
Trap, Neuter, Return
page 6

Hoof Beat is Back


Complimentary

page 12

April 2015

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The Rumors

The quintessential bachelor

I was the quintessential bachelor, living the high life, running the streets of
Pittsfield, chasing rabbits, dumpster diving, and playing dodge car... Sure
it could get lonely sometimes, and there were those pesky fleas, but I was
free! Until I wasn't. Normally, I make it a point never to talk to strangers,
but this guy had Pupperoni. Yes, I was duped by the Animal Control officer. Into his truck I went, headed to the dreaded doggie -jail. I had heard
rumors about this place. We all had. Word on the street was if you get sent
there, you don't come back.
"This is it" says Mike, the ACO. "Don't look so
glum, chum. It will all work out. Think of it as
summer camp, " he laughs. As we walk through
the gate, a formidable guard barks a warning to
keep my distance. I happily oblige. "Mike,
Mike, Mike," I said, and slammed on my
brakes. "Don't make me go in there," I pleaded.
I got rabbits to chase and dates to get to. I simply
can't stay here.
Once inside, a pretty, dark-haired, female human
asks me if I am lost. She waves a wand over me
and tells the other humans, "No tags, no collar,
no microchip." She sets me up in a private room
with a cool cave and warm bedding inside. "Are
you hungry Jethro?" she asks. "Am I hungry? I
shout, Do dogs poop on the golf course? Yeah
I'm hungry!" She sets down a large bowl of deliciousness and I dive in. But then I think, "What
if they are trying to drug me?"
"Oh Jethro, don't believe the rumors, you are
safe here with us." She brings a rope that smells
fabulous and a stuffed toy that squeaks like a
chipmunk. Welcome to Sonsini, the pack
leader says.
I nodded off. All of that time wandering the
streets just trying to survive can make a dog
tired. Real tired. Dog tired. Seven days passed
and the lady announced, "You are officially ours
Jethro. We will find you a wonderful home, but
first, you will have to visit our friend Dr.
Reynolds over at Pittsfield Vet and get
neutered."
So much for summer camp, I thought.
Once I recovered from surgery, a volunteer
human approached my condo and said Hey
Jethro, would you like to go for a walk? In another life, before my time wandering the streets, I knew the warmth of a
home, the caress of a hand, and the satisfaction of a full belly. I had known
the joy of a walk with my human. I had learned basic commands. For reasons I will never understand, my people just left me one day and never came
back. So, I have to be honest, she had me at the word walk." We come upon
a group of dogs walking their humans in a pack. "I love pack walks, I shout
and quickly join in.
After my pack walk, I was ushered into the office for puzzle time. These

puzzles have treats hidden inside of them! Being the sophisticated guy I
am, I figured them out pretty quickly. With the puzzles complete, there is
plenty of time to take a nap. I curl up at the pack leader's feet. She gently
strokes my fur and I am out.
I awoke with a start. The red-haired girl was laughing at me. "Jethro, you
silly dog you snored so loud, you woke yourself up! She has a leash and
she clipped it to my collar. We play the "sit, down, stay, come, heel game.
This is taught with chicken. I'll do anything for chicken. The red haired
girl told me that manners are important and that I will
need them in my new home. She brought me outside
to a fenced in area. There is a small house, some toys,
water, and room to run. She unclipped the leash and
told me to go play. She picked up a tennis ball and
asked if I wanted it. Did I ever! The girl threw it and
I tore after it. I grabbed the ball and ran it back to her.
Every time I did so, she threw it again! I love this
game. After this, I am able to play with the other
dogs. A young female Staffordshire mix is in the kennel next to me. We run back and forth. I like her. Nice
ears and a great tail. Think shes part lab. I always
liked labs.
After spending some time with my new girlfriend,
another human at the shelter came over to the gate
with a leash. Come Jethro, she said. "Time for
agility." She took me through the tunnel and over the
jumps, and through the poles and then I got more
chicken.
We walked to a matted area outside the main fence.
The girl who held my leash said Track Jethro and
pointed to the matted area. I sniffed until I find and
grab the treat. No sense in leaving that here. Finders
keepers. I sniffed the ground and followed the scent
of the dark haired woman. I find another treat. I continue tracking the dark haired woman. The trail turns
sharply around a bend. I found her; and her handful
of chicken treats. She gave me the whole handful and
told me what a good dog I am. She keeps saying that
and I am starting to believe her.
I return to my outdoor run for some much needed
down time. I grab some cold water and head up on
top of the dog house to catch some rays. I relax while
watching all the humans come and go through the
grounds.
Another human comes by and takes me for another
walk through the surrounding grounds. The sun is setting. I have been
walked, played with, talked to, snuggled, petted and worked with all day
long. I feel loved. I think back to the rumors. Now I understand why dogs
never came back to the streets once they came here. This place may not be
my home, but it is the best summer camp a dog could ever dream of.
Krista A. Wroldson Miller
Sonsini Animal Shelter

Animal Life

April 2015 animallifeonline.com 3

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animal life
Your pet. Our purpose.

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April 2015 animallifeonline.com

Iris Bass
Karen Karlberg
Carol Lew
Yoanna Y. Maitre
Tobie Petkus
Mary Koncel
Circulation, John Depaoli
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Consultant, Lisa Betkoski
Cover photo by Martha Pope, SHAGGYDOG PHOTOGRAPHY

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www.animallifeonline.com

A Paw Print Division of Animal Laughter Studio

Its been 20 years since Berkshire Humane Society (BHS) held our first dog
walk. Now known as Woofstock, this
annual family-friendly event raises important funds for the homeless animals
in Berkshire County. So to keep it fresh
and fun for the dogs and their people,
were making a few changes.
First, we have a new date and a new
location. This years walk will be held
on Sunday, June 28th at the redesigned
Pittsfield Common, which we think
will make a perfect 1.5 mile walk
around downtown Pittsfield.
Second, were offering new games and
challenges for the teams and individuals who raise the most funds to help the
shelters animals and its many education and outreach programs.
Third, weve named Steve Caporizzo,
News 10 Chief Meteorologist and
Founder of Pet Connection, as the Honorary Chair of Woofstock 2015. Ill be
there for Berkshire Humane because
they have done such amazing work to
help pets in need for so many years, he
explains, I want to support their amazing efforts. Ive known John [Perreault] for over 20 years, and Berkshire
Humane Society has been part of the
Pet Connection Family for over 20
years.
Before moving to Albany, NY, Steve
lived in East Otis, MA. The Berkshires
are in my blood, he says, adding, I
love the area and people!
BHSs goal for this years Woofstock
is to raise $30,000, and we cant do it
without your support. Pledge forms
will be available at BHS in Pittsfield,
Purradise Feline Adoption & Retail
Center in Great Barrington, and your
local veterinary office, or they can be
downloaded by visiting berkshirehumane.org. Ask friends, neighbors, and
family members to sponsor you. You
can also set up your own fundraising
page at http://berkshirehumane.donorpages.com/Woofstock2015/. For ideas
on how to start your fundraising for the
shelter animals, visit our website
BerkshireHumane.org.
Woofstock 2015 is a pleasant stroll
and not a multi-mile walk, so BHS suggests that pledges be based on the entire course. We appreciate any amount,
and you can participate with or without
a dog. We also invite feline lovers to
join us! You can raise money in honor

Berkshire Humane Society Celebrates

20th Annual Dog Walk

of your beloved cat, all of which will be


used to help the homeless felines at
BHS and Purradise. Registration for
the walk is at 10:00AM, and the walk
begins at 11:00AM. Great prizes will
be awarded to individual walkers and
teams of walkers who collect the most
pledges.
Throughout the day, BHS will be offering a full schedule of demonstrations, raffles, games and classes for
dogs and their people, such as Musical
Sits and Downs and Best Tricks. Delicious refreshments will also be available, such as Markis French Fries and
Fried Dough. And, yes, therell also be
the Bouncy House for the kids.
Besides BHS staff and the young volunteers from our Humane Heroes program, all of your favorite vendors and
organizations will be attending Woofstock as well as several new additions.
And speaking of new additions, we
have a special one our 2015 Subaru
Raffle. Instead of waiting until October, well be drawing the winning ticket
at Woofstock.
This years car is a 2015 Outback that
comes with all the extras a premium
all-weather package which includes a
remote car starter and heated seats, a
canine package complete with a back
seat barrier, a seven-year 100,000 mile
extended warranty, and so much more.
Total value over $31,000! Tickets are
on sale now $40 each or three tickets
for $100.
Because BHS is a privately funded
shelter that receives no public money,
your participation in Woofstock 2015 is
very important. So mark your calendars. For more information about
Woofstock 2015, call 447-7878, ext.
131, or visit our website BerkshireHumane.org.
Mary A. Koncel is the Community
Outreach Coordinator at
Berkshire Humane Society.

Animal Life

April 2015 animallifeonline.com 5

out & about

Duck, Duck, Goose & Heron

Animal Life

species. This creates a wide range of indistinct plumages, unexpected color


patterns and odd markings that are not
always identifiable.
Let us not forget the magnificent Mallards that start to decorate our waterways this time of the year too. These
are our most common and widespread
duck and are found in small groups or
pairs on shallow water. By the way, a
group of ducks may be called a brace, a
raft, a team or a paddling. The male
duck is known as a drake, the female
duck is a hen or duck and a juvenile
duck or chick can be referred to as
duckling. The male Mallard is brightly
decorated with a green head and white
ring neck while the female is mainly a
pale brown. Male ducks will often
have outrageous, vibrant even garish

April 2015 animallifeonline.com

color patterns to their feathers while the


females feather are of more subdued
neutral colors and mottled patterns for
better camouflage.
Did you know that ducks are often
classified by the way they feed, either
as dabbling ducks, or diving ducks?

Karen Karlberg

diving duck is a strong swimmer, they


will also dive for protection. Unlike
dabbling ducks, these birds are uncertain and awkward on land and will
avoid it in search of food. Buffleheads,
Common Goldeneye and Ruddy ducks
fall into this category.
Then there is the
unmistakable honking that heralds the
return of the Canada
goose to the Berkshires. These geese
are common and
widespread here and
in North America for
that matter. Many
residents consider
them a true indication that spring has
arrived and goose
poop will be abundant once again.
The first week of
April also gave me a
Did you know that ducks are often new Year List
sighting of a Great
classified by the way they feed,
Blue Heron. My
jaw dropped as I
either as dabbling ducks, or
watched in away
diving ducks?
how this creature
with a five foot
wingspan
soared
Dabblers feed tipping headfirst under over the marsh area. The vision of a
the surface of small ponds, rivers and Great Blue Heron in flight never ceases
other shallow waterways. They will to amaze me. The next day, armed
forage for food, like aquatic plants and with my trusty camera, I was able to
vegetation, as far down as they can capture a Great Blue as it stood quietly
reach. Dabbling ducks include the in the open waters waiting for breakfast
Mallards, Hooded Mergansers and to come along. It made for a striking
Goldeneye. Dabbling ducks will also setting, with snow in the foreground,
forage on land for seeds and insects be- something I dont usually see in April.
cause they are well adapted to walking Till next time, watch for animal signs
on the ground. These ducks have flat, wherever you may roam.
broad bills and will float high on the
water while swimming; they also tend Karen Karlberg resides in Becket MA with
her menagerie of rescued barnyard &
to be very vocal birds.
The other groups known as diving domestic animals and her husband Mark.
ducks are found on large, open bodies She is actively involved in conservation
efforts as a citizen scientist, is an accomof water such as lakes and estuaries.
plished artisan and amateur nature
They can dive deep and swim under- photographer. Kattailphoto.com
water to be able to feed on aquatic vegetation, insects and small fish. Since a

April is an exciting month for avian


wildlife enthusiasts, i.e. birdwatchers.
In particular, I welcomed the return of
waterfowl to my backyard, also called
Shaw Pond in Becket, MA. My neighbor Rita Burns alerted me that she had
seen a pair of ducks one brown and the
other with a white band around its neck.
Intrigued, I started to visit the marsh
several times a day to catch a glimpse
of the mysterious pair myself. Sure
enough, it was a pair of breeding
Hooded Mergansers. The Hooded
Mergansers have a crest at the back of
the head which can be expanded or
contracted. The adult males head is
black, the crest is also black with a
large white patch and his sides are reddish brown. The adult female has a reddish brown crest and much of the rest
of her head and body is a drab grayishbrown color.
The next day, I noticed a male Hooded
Merganser repeatedly raising and lowering his black & white crest and the female was just floated alongside him
with her frosted brown crest remaining
motionless. I have since noted added
another pair of Hooded Mergansers.
They looked like they were trying to
stakeout their territory on the waterway
too. The first pair of ducks was not
happy about this new pairs encroachment into their area. I continued to
watch them chase each other back and
forth for a few days, noting the crazy
head movements of the males. Hooded
Mergansers are known to breed in
swamps and wooded ponds, so I know
my marsh is the perfect place for them
to raise their family.
On another particularly cold and wet
April day, I spied a pair of breeding
Barrows Goldeneye ducks swimming
around the cattails and non-melted ice
shelf. Saying they were gorgeous does
not do them justice. The male has a low
flat crown with a narrower white patch

and of course, those golden yellow


eyes. The female Goldeneye may be
brown in color, but shes is just as
lovely. I was having some difficulty
identifying of the ducks, after checking
the bird books I discovered that ducks
can interbreed with several other duck

Its Spring and Time for the 2015 Humane Race

For the past 13 years, an annual event


in Williamstown, MA, confirms the arrival of spring! Always held on the first
Saturday in May, the Humane Race is a
5K Fun Run or 1 Mile Walk with or
without a dog that benefits Berkshire
Humane Society. This years race will
take place on May 2nd, and rain or
shine, it promises a full morning of fun,
family and dog friendly activities.
Besides spending a great morning
with your favorite dog, the Humane
Race supports the important work and
mission of Berkshire Humane Society.
Dogs as well as their humans enjoy the
opportunity to socialize and help their
favorite animal shelter. Of course, runners and walkers unaccompanied by
dogs are welcomed too! While runners
take one route, walkers take another
through Williamstowns lovely streets
and Williams Colleges picturesque
campus. The race is not a timed event,
so you can enjoy a leisurely pace and
the scenery or work on your own personal best. Start time is 10AM; however, runners and walkers can check in

or register from 8AM to 9:45AM at 16


Water St. in Williamstown.
For the 2015 Humane Race, were offering two ways to preregister. The
best way is to go to www.humanerace.org. Or you can pick
up a form at Greylock Animal Hospital (1028 State
Rd., North Adams), Bark
N Cat (28 Holden St.,
North Adams), or Berkshire Humane Society (214
Barker Rd., Pittsfield), and
either mail in your registration or drop it off at
Bark N Cat. Registration
is $20 for adults and $15
for children 12 years old or
under. Registration the
morning of the race is an
additional $5.00 $25 for
adult and $20 for children.
Of course, all dogs are free! The first
150 registered runners and walkers will
receive a race T-shirt; all canine participants will receive a commemorative
doggie bandana.

MEMBER FDIC MEMBER DIF

If youd like to raise additional money


for Berkshire Humane Society and be
eligible to win some special pledge
prizes, you can collect pledges online
at www.humanerace.org or pick up a
pledge form along with
your registration form. For
every $100 you raise,
youll get a ticket and automatically be entered into
a drawing for a pledge
prize. First prize is a one
night stay at the Holiday
Inn in Burlington, VT.
Finish line festivities at
the Spring St. parking lot
include music, refreshments, games as well as
pledge prizes and other
contests, such Best Tail
Wag and Look-A-Like
Dog and Owner. Meet
Berkshire Humane Society staff and its
Humane Heroes and buy a ticket or two
for its 2015 Subaru Outback Raffle
winner to be announced at Woofstock
on Saturday, June 28th..

The Humane Race is sponsored by


two title sponsors, Greylock Animal
Hospital and Donovan & OConnor,
LLC. Both have a long history of
supporting this event, and were very
grateful, as always, for their commitment
to the homeless animals of Berkshire
County.
For more information about the Humane Race, visit www.humanerace.org or call Christa Abel, Race
Director at Bark N Cat 413 664 7777
or email barkncat@gmail.com

Since 1992, Berkshire Humane Society


has been providing refuge for animals
in need, free humane education programs
for the community, low-cost spaying
and neutering options, and foster care
for pets whose families are in crisis. An
open admission shelter, Berkshire Humane
Society receives no public funding and
relies on donations and memberships to
continue its important work of helping
pets and their people.

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Animal Life

April 2015 animallifeonline.com 7

Ahhhh Facebook

Kitten season is upon us and photos of


these adorable little fluffballs are all
over Facebook. Who wouldn't be
tempted to grab up one of these for
your kids? For a small "rehoming" fee,
you can snag one of these kitties from
a stranger. But wait, what exactly does
this rehoming fee include? Well, that
thirty or so dollars may include much
more than you bargain for. This is
when a deal may not be a deal at all
and may in fact, cost you hundreds of
dollars in vet bills or worse.
I called on one of these Facebook kittens and asked some questions that
every potential adopter should ask
prior to getting a kitten from a stranger.

E
Animal Life

Here is what happens more often


than not:
You grab one of those kittens from a
stranger on Facebook. You pay the "rehoming" fee. You are so taken with the

cat, you forget to ask what the rehoming fee includes.


Soon after you get the baby home you
realize it is full of fleas, anemic, and
what are those little white things in its
poop? Gross! It won't eat and is sneezing, and come to find out it is only 4
weeks old, not 8 weeks like the woman
said it was. You call the lady back but
she claims the kitten was healthy when
she gave it to you. You end up bringing
the kitty to the vet and come home
with several medications, wormer, and
you are up all night with him for a
week. If you are lucky, the cat survives
but you realize that money you were
saving to spay/ neuter him or her just
went to pay the veterinary bill. If you
are not lucky, you stay up with it all
week but it ends up suffering and
dying, breaking your children's hearts
and making you a very unpopular parent. A week later, you realize you have
ringworm on your wrist or leg and you
have to go to the doctor for treatment.
That won't happen to me,
you are saying...

Operation Delta Dog


Two Big Problems, One Great Solution

Every day, 22 veterans take their own


lives in the United States... almost one
per hour. These vets serve their country
and then come home to face the even
greater challenges of TBI (Traumatic
Brain Injury) and PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder) that can leave
them debilitated, sleepless, and unable
to cope. Massachusetts is home to about
400,000 veterans. If Veteran's Administration estimates are correct, that means
that about 20 percent of those, or
80,000 of our friends and neighbors, are
suffering with these invisible disabilities
right now. An epidemic of veteran suicides.
Each year, more than 50,000 dogs
wind up homeless in Massachusetts.
Many of these animals are sweet-tempered and trainable, but theres just
nowhere for them go. The sad result?
Nearly half of all shelter animals are euthanized.
Working with experienced trainers and
positive-reinforcement methods, we

Has the kitten been treated for fleas


or worms yet?
"No."
Has he/ she had any shots?
"No."
Is he/she neutered or spayed?
"Duh, No."
Has he/she shown any symptoms of
upper respiratory infection such as
coughing, sneezing or runny eyes?
"Well...."
Animal advocates are always harping
for folks to "Spay or Neuter your pet."
Why are they so adamant about this?
Spaying and neutering is expensive
and drives up the price of a kitten astronomically. And money is tight right
now. Maybe in a few months you can
save enough to spay or neuter. And the
kitten is young right now, and you will
keep it indoors so it isn't as important, right?
WRONG!!! SO WRONG!!!

rescue homeless dogs from Massachusetts shelters and breed-rescue groups


and train them to work as service dogs
with local veterans who are suffering
with TBI and PTSD.
Assistance animals are a practical and
successful way to reduce stress, treat
depression, and manage the panic attacks associated with TBI and PTSD.
Trained dogs, however, are in short supply.
Very few service-dog organizations
focus solely on veterans, and even fewer
utilize rescued dogs in their programs.
Operation Delta Dog wants to improve
those odds. Our trainers find the very
best canine candidates, pluck them
from shelters, and train them for a new
life filled with purpose and affection.
Local veterans can participate in training without leaving their jobs or families and find relief from the debilitating
symptoms of TBI, PTSD, and other
challenges.

April 2015 animallifeonline.com

To learn more about


Operation Delta Dog, please visit
our website:
www.operationdeltadog.org

Scenario # 2.
You are rushing to work and your 4
month old male kitten runs out the
door on you. You look for him for
weeks only to find out that he is a she
and she comes home pregnant. She is
also loaded with fleas and has worms.
That woman told you the kitten was a
male. Now you have a vet bill, medications and a bunch of unwanted kittens. You find yourself saying, "Why
didn't I just bite the bullet and purchase
a healthy, neutered kitten from the
shelter?" You post the kittens on Facebook asking for a small, "rehoming
fee" to defray the cost of all of this.
Do a little research on worms or the
importance of spaying and neutering
and I guarantee you will think twice
about taking that bargain kitty you saw
on Facebook. Better yet, get one from
a shelter that is already spayed or
neutered, up to date with vaccinations
and flea and worm free!
Tobie Petkus
Manager
Eleanor Sonsini Animal Shelter

Trap
Neuter
Return,

A Community
Solution

It would be a fair assessment to say that


Animal DREAMS is an organization
that cares about cats. After all, we go
out of our way to help cats, even feral
cats that would rather have nothing to
do with us. But we know that their lives
will be much better if they are spayed
and neutered.
It can also be said that Animal
DREAMS is an organization that supports the communitys human population. We know that un-owned, unfixed
cats in a community can quickly become a big problem even for the most
avid animal lovers who live there.
Spraying, fighting, and reproducing are
natural behaviors for them. However,
few of us would welcome these uninvited cat residents and their instinctual
habits into our own backyards. Fortunately, Trap, Neuter, Return, (TNR) the
primary mission of Animal DREAMS
goes a long way to solve the problems
caused by the un-owned cats in our
community.
In February of 2014, we got a call
from a Pittsfield resident who was having a hard time with cats she was seeing; they seemed to be spending most
of their time in the empty lot next to her
house, but they also frequented her
yard. Most troubling was that, over the
last 6 months, she had started to notice
the numbers of cats increase; several of
them were smaller, so she guessed that
they were kittens. She hoped we could
catch and remove them as she feared
that the area would soon become overrun with cats. When we went to her
home, we were able to see lots of cat
footprints in the snow, all leading to the
house behind hers. This led us to be-

lieve that this neighbor might be caring for the cats. We posted a note on
that persons door explaining the concept of Trap, Neuter, Return and offering our help.
That person turned out to be the caretaker of seven feral cats; a tom (unneutered male cat) who came around
occasionally, a mother cat, and five
kittens that were about six months old.
The caretaker was happy for our assistance, and within a few weeks, all
of the cats were fixed and returned.
What might have happened if we
hadnt fixed these cats? Well as it
turned out, six of the seven felines
were female. Over the course of 2014,
it would be easy to predict that each
female could have had at least one litter, though two litters are not unheard
of. If each had delivered one litter of
five kittens, the neighborhood could
have been home to an additional 30
cats by the end of that summer. Now
that would be an even bigger problem
for the community!
Heres what did happen. After the
seven were returned, the tomcat dispersed or moved on to a new area. (This
sometimes happens with cats after
TNR.) Two of the four kittens disappeared over this past winter; the caretaker suspects that they fell prey to a
wild predator. One of the cats recently
sustained severe injuries (possibly hit
by a car) and was humanely euthanized
to end its suffering. So the colony now
has only three cats; Three cats that no
longer spray, fight or reproduce. Their
caretakers provide them food, water
and a place where they take shelter in
bad weather. They are living a good
life, and no longer causing stress in the
neighborhood.
Attrition by natural and man made
causes will happen in both fixed and
unfixed colonies, but fixed colonies
will eventually die off completely opposed to unfixed colonies that will keep
growing every season as they keep producing kittens.
TNR is a great solution to the community problem of cat overpopulation. If
you have un-owned, unfixed cats where
you live, we would be happy to talk
with you about it. 413-997-CATS
Carol Lew
TNR Coordinator
Animal DREAMS

training
LEEA FORAN, CPDT-KA, CDBC, CTTP-2

Learn with a
Dedicated Professional

BEHAVIOR CONSULTATIONS & PRIVATE TRAINING


GROUP CLASSES & WORKSHOPS

Certified Professional Dog Trainer


Certified Dog Behavior Consultant
Certified Tellington TTouch Practitioner II
AKC Canine Good Citizen Evaluator
Amer Red Cross Pet First Aid Instructor

Training for Real Life Needs

413-445-8843

With 36 Years of
Teaching Experience

www.trainingforanimals.com

I believe that training should bring a smile to your face & a wag to your tail. I will never use
force or intimidation to train your dog. Positive reinforcement and up-to-date scientifically
based behavior modification programs bring positive results and lasting change. Leea

Day Care
Socialization
Agility
Conformation and
Obedience Classes
Canine Good Citizen Classes
and Testing
10 Lyman St., Pittsfield, MA 01201

413-443-9700

www.shamrockdoggrooming.com

Taiz
Shepherd
Kennel
Since 1972

Positive Reinforcement Dog Training


All Breed - All Ages
Specializing in the behavior and transition
problems of shelter and rescue dogs.
Training & Certification for
Therapy Dogs International
Home of:
Select AKC Champions 2000 Canadian Grand Victrix
United States Top Ten Police K-9 Unit Service Dogs
AKC Obedience, Agility and Herding titleholders NADAC &
Schutzhund titleholders Therapy Dogs and Canine Good
Citizens GSDCA Performance Award of Merit Recipients

Charlene Marchand
North Chatham, NY 518-766-3804
Charlene Marchand is a syndicated columnist for training, behavior, and health issues. She is
actively involved in canine rescue and sheltering, and is the co-creator and trainer for Columbia
County Sheriffs highly acclaimed A New Leash On Life Cell Dog Program.

pet sitting &day care

HappyDog

Walk In The Park

Dog Walking/Pet Sitting Services In The Berkshires


Member Pet Sitters International
American Red Cross Pet First Aid Certified
Member Berkshire Chamber of Commerce
Certified Professional Pet Sitter
Insured & Bonded
Lynn Pfeiler @ 413-655-8721
References
Ly25@verizon.net 413-446-0684

The

PLAYYARD
Dog Sitting and Training Services

Putting a Smile on Your Dogs Face

ABC Certified Professional Training Classes


No Kennels (APDT) Insured
Safe Home Environment NAPPS

Kennel & Day Care


Best Little Kennel in the Berkshires!
(in MA & NY)

Boarding Day Care Training


We cover Great Barrington, Alford, Egremont,
Hillsdale, Chatham & more

413-528-0877

Nora Hayes, MSW, Owner & Trainer


email: norahayes3@aol.com www.hayeshappydog.com

a
n
i
G
K-9 Bed & Breakfast

Independent Field Representative for Lifes Abundance

518-325-9807 88 County Rt. 21, Hillsdale, NY 12529

Susan & George Clark, ABCDT sadsam12@hotmail.com www.foryourpetshealth.com

CANINE PLAYCARE MONDAY FRIDAY


Call to set up your dogs interview
Canine lodging 365 days/year
Salon services for canine and feline Monday-Saturday
Serving area pets since 1995

92 Cook Road, Sheffield, MA


www.bowmeowregency.com

(413) 229-0035

518-329-4675

D 349 Farm Rd., Copake, New York

day care & grooming

Poochinis
located at Copake Lake,
Craryville, NY

Top Dog Styling


Bubbles & Brush
Dematting
Transportation
dog walking
a La Carte items
special services

Accepting most major credit cards


Fully Insured
Member of PSI and ASPCA

Dawn Gardina, Owner

poochinipetsalon@gmail.com
poochinipetsalon.wix.com/home

518-325-4150 518-821-3959

Get your dog his

Spring Cleaning

and wash away their winter pew!

Got
MUD?

One-on-One grooming In our home boarding


Cage Free

Holly Ketchum
413-448-8466 Pittsfield, MA

Do You Have the Ultimate Dog?

PET SITTING
in YOUR HOME

Reliable
Pet Sitting
Company
Serving Berkshire County Since 1997

Maryann Hyatt-Owner
INSURED BONDED

413.443.0443 or 413.329.5127
413.229.8486
PO Box 232, Pittsfield, MA 01202

Open Tue-Fri 8am-5pm,Sat-8am-3pm


CLOSED SUNDAYS

NEW EMAIL: mhyattreliablepetsitting@gmail.com

9 Academy Street, Salisbury, CT 06068

(860)435-8353

Full service dog grooming-all breeds


Walk-In nail trims
Self Serve Bathing Station: All tools provided,
just bring yourself and your dog!
Frequent Fido Cards-Get your sixth wash FREE
Boutique filled with unique dog items for dogs
and the people who love them!
High Quality Raw (Oma's Pride & Nature's Variety)
and dry (Blue Buffalo & Nature's Variety) foods.
Special Orders Available Upon Request
Chris & Jennifer Tompkins, Owners/Groomers
Amanda Hohman-Manager

Haddad Subaru . . .

Love SPRING Event


HADDAD
SUBARU

Open Mon-Thu 8am-8pm; Fri-Sat 8am-6pm

652 East Street, Pittsfield, MA

(413) 997-7272

www.haddadsubaru.com

hoof beat

Equine Emergencies and First Aid

If you own a horse, chances are you


have had to deal with a medical emergency. Horses are athletic, curious, fast
moving creatures that can get into all
sorts of trouble. Here are some tips on
how to recognize and respond appropriately to an emergency situation while
waiting for your veterinarian to arrive.

What is Normal

Know the normal values for the temperature, pulse and respiration (TPR)
and ask your veterinarian to show you
how to measure each so you arent
fumbling during an emergency:
Temperature: 99.5-101 F
Pulse: 30-42 beats per minute
Respiration rate 12-20 breaths per minute

Have a Plan

Keep the name and number of one or


more veterinarians in an accessible
place. Also know in advance how you
would get access to a horse trailer in
case it becomes necessary to transport
your horse for surgery or more intensive care.

First Aid Supplies

It is a good idea to prepare a first aid


kit to help you handle basic emergencies. Items should include:
Examination gloves Saline solution
Antiseptic solution and scrub
Gauze pads Cotton roll Cling wrap
Adhesive wrap and adhesive tape
Sharp scissors Rectal thermometer
Vaseline/lubricant jelly Stethoscope

Yoanna Y. Matre, DVM, DABVP

Epsom salts Fly repellent Flashlight

Store your kit to keep out dirt and moisture, such as in a plastic food container.
Make sure that all barn personnel know
where the kit is. You may want to keep
a second kit in your horse trailer, and
carry a smaller one on the trail.

DONT PANIC

If you suspect a serious emergency, follow these basic steps to ensure prompt
treatment:

Catch and calm the horse to prevent additional injury.


Get help before attempting to treat or
evaluate a wound
If there is active hemorrhage (bleeding),
hold several layers of padding against the
wound. Dont keep checking under it to
see if the bleeding has stopped and if the
wound bleeds through, DON'T TAKE OFF
THE BANDAGE! This will only disrupt
the clotting process. Instead, add pressure
with a second layer of gauze pads and cling
wrap.
Take your horse's vital signs (TPR)
Call your veterinarian: be prepared to give
your horses vital signs, as well as the nature and location of the injury. Dont forget
to listen to your vets instructions!
Wait with the horse and reassure him until
the vet arrives.

Call sooner than later

The following conditions can be lifethreatening, and warrant an immediate


call to your veterinarian:
Bleeding that won't stop
Obvious or suspected fractures

Any wound that is a puncture, involves a


joint, or appears to require stitches
Sudden lameness or reluctance to get up
or walk
Signs of colic (abdominal pain) - pawing,
biting or kicking at sides, rolling
Respiratory distress - noisy, labored
breathing
Choking - difficulty swallowing, extended neck, nasal discharge
Watery diarrhea
Eye injuries or an eye that is squinted shut
Seizures, paralysis, or "tying up" (severe
muscle stiffness)
Temperature over 103; Pulse over 60
beats per minute

Remember, if you are not sure if you


are dealing with a true emergency, call
your vet and ask. Most veterinarians
would rather talk someone through an
innocent problem, than get called out
when an owner may have waited too
long. With a little preparation, you will
be able to stay calm in the face of an
emergency and take the appropriate actions to get your horse the care he
needs.
Dr. Yoanna Matre is the owner of
Berkshire Ambulatory Veterinary
Services, a mobile clinic that provides
on-farm medical and surgical care to
horses and farm animals in Berkshire
County and neighboring areas of New
York State.

Berkshire Disaster Animal Response Team

Presents
Dr. Yoanna Maitre DVM, Berkshire Ambulatory Veterinary Services

LARGE ANIMAL FIRST AID

Tuesday, April 14th 6:30pm

Topics covered will include large animal behavior and restraint, how to take vital
signs, contents of a first aid kit, bandaging, and common medical emergencies and
their treatment. Feel free to share, or contact us for more information. Support the
Animal Support Project.

12

Animal Life

Held in the Classroom at

Berkshire Humane Society, 214 Barker Road, Pittsfield 413-447-7878

April 2015 animallifeonline.com

pet supplies &grooming


Catering to the needs of the well loved pet.

K Super premium foods and treats


K Quality Toys
K Bedding and Clothing
K Bravo, Abady Raw Diets & Natures Variety

We love your pets.

D TOYS, CARDS, UNIQUE GIFTS C

Barking Beauties

Salon for Dogs & Cats

Staci A. Barrett, Owner

  Always
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10+Years of Experience Gift Certificates

165 Water Street, Lee, MA 413-243-2626

 


Custom Veterinary
Medications

lls
if only my pi n
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or cheese!

or liver

help is here for pets & vets!


Your dog resists swallowing pills, your cat spits out her medication and your
hamster is not a happy patientWe can help! Our pharmacists can compound your
pets medications into tasty snacks or other easy to administer forms (creams, gels,
protective coatings) and in dosages adjusted to the size and type of animal.
From house pets to horses, we can provide unique solutions for a wide variety of
ailments and most veterinary medical specialties. We use the highest standards,
purest chemicals and the latest technology.

D ALL ORGANIC-NATURAL DOG & CAT FOOD C


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also discover
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Lenox, MA 413.637.4700
open mon-fri 9-6 sat 9-5

5 Walker Street
888.796.1222

Delivery to your home or office!


independent / local / family owned & operated

NAIL TRIMMING

call for date & times


$7 per cat or dog

59 Main Street
Lee, MA





413-243-1220
www.Meowandgrowl.com

D ASK ABOUT OUR DELIVERY SERVICE C




Your Neighborhood
Pet Supply Store Featuring:
Premium USAbrands of
foods and treats
Toys Essentials Gifts
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Lots of Fun Stuff!

call for more information, or visit compounding at

Dog Wash Stations!

Saturday, May 9th 1-3pm.


Nail Trimming $7.00

Monday - Friday 10 am - 5:30 pm, Saturday 10 am - 4 pm


OPEN Most Sundays 11 am - 3 pm

Lenox Commons 55 Pittsfield Road, Lenox, MA

413-637-0800 www.chezpet.com

D LEASHES, COLLARS, BOWLS C

Mon. - Fri. 9-5:30pm, Sat. 9-5pm


333 Main Street, Lakeville, CT
860-435-8833

Sometimes I am virtually handed article material by being at Purradise when


an adoption is taking placejust in
time for a happy ending, one might
call such occasions. Such was the case
when I popped in on March 26.
Lisa, who greeted me with an outstretched-paw high-five, had just been
profiled in Berkshire Humane Societys
newsletter, Humane Tales, as a specialneeds cat. This all-white stray, whose
routine BHS vet checkup had revealed
a heart murmur, does not need medication, but she does need to be monitored
for the rest of her life...which may
nonetheless be a long and active one.
As the newsletter explained, Like
other young adult cats, shes active, curious and playful, and equally important, the heart murmur has not affected
her ability to love. Despite being
friendly and knockout gorgeous, she
had been at the mother shelter since
October, the prospect of illness or even
just regular monitoring perhaps too
daunting to potential adopters. The staff
at BHS decided to send her down to
Purradise to see whether greater interest
might be generated there.
Photographer and very involved
Purradise volunteer Sheila Heflin had
advocated for Lisa so passionately at a
recent lunch date with friends that they
threw $20 bills at me, she said, a total
of $100 in sponsorship for her to for-

Taken to Heart

ward to Purradise to sweeten Lisas


adoption. Right on the heels of that,
Sheila continued, she learned that Pat, a
member of BHS who had previously
adopted another cat, Baby, from
Purradise, had decided to adopt Lisa as
a companion for Baby. And while I was
there, sure enough, Pat arrived, carrier
in hand, eager to bring Lisa home.
Sheila and Purradise manager Danielle
caught me up on another heart murmur
cat: Dorothy, who as a very young kitten was adopted a few months ago by
yet another Purradise volunteer. Because Dorothy was so tiny, only two
pounds at the time of her adoption, it
was decided to suspend the shelters
usual policy to spay or neuter before an
adoption takes place, because of the
concern that the anesthesia might be too
much for the kittens heart to handle.
But Dorothy, who has thrived in the
care of her new human, has since been
spayed without any complications and
has reached six months of age without
any further indication of frailty. Sheila
informed me that when Dorothys new
mom explained the cats heart condition to her nonagenarian mother,
preparing her for the worst, the latter
wisely advised, Just dont tell her.
And this is really key to living with
pets that have a chronic health issue:
yes, take care of them as best you can,
but allow them to enjoy whatever time

Sheila and Pat (holding Lisa).


Photo 2015 Sheila Heflin.

they have without imposing an unnecessary state of invalidism upon them.


Just as people who have a heart murmur may never feel disabled and, indeed, may survive to a normal life span,
cats with this condition may be comfortably unaware of it for their entire,
and with luck, even long life.
Yet another happy ending seemed in
the offing as I took my leave from
Purradise that afternoon: Dorothys
handsome brothers, Tinman and Cowardly Lion, who had been returned to
the shelter when their initial adopter
couldnt quite keep pace with their energy level, were being visited by a family of four (two adults and their kids)

Iris Bass
who were considering adding them
to a home where the very active (and
fully healthy) twin longhairs could
bounce off the walls to their hearts
content.

Perhaps we should
banish the term happy
endings in favor of an
even more upbeat one.
Happy beginnings,
anyone?

this side of purradise

This series follows the special


human-feline bond at Purradise, the
Berkshire Humane Society Cat
Adoption Center at 301 Stockbridge
Road, Great Barrington, MA 01230
(413-717-4244), berkshireumane.org.
Open Wed., Fri., & Sat. 104 p.m.;
Thurs. 10 a.m.6 p.m.; and Sun.
noon4 p.m.
Iris Bass, coauthor of the Cat Lovers
Daily Companion, shares her Lee home
with five shelter cats.

Spot & Fido

Pet Waste Removal


D

D
D

D
D

Neglected Poop Pollutes!

Call Mr. B at 413-442-0367

14

Animal Life

visit us at www.spotandfido.com email: MrB@spotandfido.com

April 2015 animallifeonline.com

DALTON WILD ANIMAL BYLAW

Dalton voters are urged


to attend the Annual
Town Meeting at
Wahconah Regional
High School on May 4th
at 7PM to vote YES
on this important Bylaw:

Joes Lawn Care & Landscaping

Display of Non-domesticated
Animals for Entertainment

(a) No living non domesticated animal


shall be displayed for public entertainment or amusement in circuses, carnivals, traveling events or similar entities
on property owned by the town of Dalton, town owned property under lease,
or private property. As used in this
paragraph, displayed shall include,
but is not limited to, animal acts and
performances, and competition, and
rides.
(b) This article shall not apply to domestic animals including, but not limited to, dogs, cats, horses, donkeys and
farm animals.
(c) This shall not apply to exhibits
deemed educational by the MSPCA.
The Bylaw would make Dalton the 7th
Massachusetts town to enact a restriction on wild animals in entertainment.
Braintree, Revere, Quincy, Weymouth,
Somerville, and Plymouth all have a
bylaw and Cambridge town council is
reviewing one now. In fact, over 35
countries and 46 USA towns and cities
have these laws. According to our
Berkshire Eagle, The era in which animals, most notably elephants, are featured in circuses is coming to an end.
It would be best for Dalton, and the
Dalton Lions Club, to be out in front of
this change rather than trail it.
(Editorial- March 29, 2015)
Until recently, most circuses traveled
with wild animal performers. But there
is now a greater understanding of and
concern for these majestic creatures.
We are aware of their rough transport
in trailers, cages and boxcars up to 11

months of the year. Cruel training and


control methods using chains, whips,
electric prods and bull hooks, force
them to perform foolish, unnatural
tricks. Of course this training is out
of public view but we see the resulting
abnormal behaviors like swaying, head
bobbing, even aggression. They are deprived of free movement and the expression of every natural instinct!
Ringling Brothers has made a wonderful decision to retire their elephants
to sanctuary as a result of growing public concerns for their treatment and
well- being. Their statement acknowledges an inability to do justice to wild
animals in traveling circuses. Their decision is commendable and historic!
Animal-free circuses are, indeed, the
wave of the future.
The circuses which perform in small
towns like Dalton, however, have no
plans to follow the lead of Ringling
Brothers. Their wild animals will continue to suffer a cruel, unnatural life. So
the voters of Dalton have an opportunity.
They can further the humane treatment
of wild animals by voting YES to exclude them from local entertainment.
(Dont worry if youve never gone to
Town Meeting, most people havent.)
One night, one chance to vote!
Supporters: Berkshire Voters for
Animals, MSPCA, HSUS, Animal
Defenders International, and
The Berkshire Eagle
(editorial- March 29, 2015)

SPRING CLEANUPS Computerized Landscape Design


Lawn Mowing Landscape Plantings
Property/Landscape Maintenance Mulching
Hedge Trimming & Pruning Light Tree Work
Call for your FREE ESTIMATE Today! Fully Insured

Joe Walton 413-822-2700

Martha Pope, Photographer

Any of my clients who have rescued or


adopted a shelter pet receives a 10% discount
on all products and packages
www.shaggydogphotography.com

Animal Life

April 2015 animallifeonline.com 15

Pack Walks are back!


By popular demand the Eleanor Sonsini Animal Shelter will be
resuming our Friday evening Pack Walks. They are a great way for
you and your dog(s) to exercise, socialize and have fun! Please join us
for our first walk of the season on Friday, May 1, at 5:45 pm at
the shelter. Call 448-9800 to pre-register and hold your spot. Dogs
must be up to date on their vaccinations. No retractable
leashes are permitted. $5.00 minimum donation suggested.
Hope to see you and your best friend there!

VRTYUZ
Downing Industrial Park

Pittsfield

413-448-9800

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IURP6KDPURFN'RJ:DVWH5HPRYDO
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Yddl`Yloafl]j%dgf_\g_oYkl]afqgmjqYj\7D]lmk[d]Yfal
mh^gjqgmO]g^^]jGf]%Lae];d]Yf%Mhk$O]]cdqEgfl`dq&
KYlak^Y[lagf_mYjYfl]]\&
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Year-Round Service
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We Pick It Up & Take It Away
We Sanitize Our Equipment

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1050 South St., Pittsfield, MA 413-443-9700 www.shamrockdogwasteremoval.com

Berkshire Countys #1 Dog Waste Removal Service

16

Animal Life

rescue me

Jacks Galore

Jack Russell Rescue

Jack Russell Terriers may be small in stature but they pack enormous power in both
body and intellect. Initially bred for hunting, to go
to ground to find small prey and badgers, they have
a strong will to kill vermin ingrained in their genes.
Because of this instinct, in most instances homes
with cats are not appropriate. Since they're so small
and absolutely adorable, many Jacks are bought by
inappropriate homes and end up in rescue (in 85%
of cases because of child-related issues). Extremely
intelligent and with low tolerance for things that
annoy them, these dogs need to be kept busy with
games they enjoy and that build their brainpower. If
bored or left alone for too long they invent their
own games, often ones their humans do not find
pleasing. Giving them new jobs like learning tricks
or performing at agility keeps them both healthy
and happy.
Jacks Galore is a small family-run, federally recognized 501(3), breed-specific operation that's
been rescuing Jack Russells for more than 10 years.
We rely solely on donations and adoption contributions to keep our mission to save jacks running. Every jack is different. Because
we're so small each one becomes a temporary family member and we get very familiar with their character, quirks, and particular needs before rehoming these energetic dynamos with appropriate families. Jacks come to us from all over: shelters
we've worked closely with for years; vets who have jacks dropped off to be euthanized or rehomed; families and individuals no longer able to keep their dogs because theyre moving, they have infants, the dog is too demanding of their time, or
they just realized after getting the dog that it's not the right breed for them. We get
applications from all over the US but mostly Massachusetts, and work on matching the dogs with the best suited applicant.
Jacks Galore has a small kennel facility where dogs live until going to their new
homes, but we also have fosters and rely heavily on the help of Jennifer Andrews
who owns and runs Camp Wagalot in Stockbridge. This great dog day care is an invaluable asset in working with our dogs, keeping them busy and active and giving
us a wonderful assessment of their character. This amazing group has even managed
to rehome some of our Jacks with their clients.
We encourage people to research the breed of any dog before they adopt, and our
message is that by adopting either from a breed-specific rescue or a shelter (like our
wonderful local Berkshire Humane Society) you're saving a life and providing a forever family to an animal in need.
You can check us out on our website at www.jacksgalore.org.
Sponsored by:

413-443-3909
April 2015 animallifeonline.com

veterinarians

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9(7(5,1$5<6(59,&(6
TreatingVKHHSOODPDVDOSDFDVDQGWKH
cattle, horses, goats, sheep, llamas
and
alpacas at your farm or home
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7UHDWLQJFDWWOHKRUVHVJRDWV

Dr. Sharon Lynch, Veterinarian


Fred Davis III, CVT

<RDQQD<0DvWUH'90

Comprehensive Veterinary Services


Low Cost Individual Attention
Caring & Compassionate

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PDLWUHGYP#JPDLOFRP

Washington State Road, Washington, MA 01223 www.hilltownsvetclinic.com

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Julie
Shanahan, D.V.M.
Laura
Aylesworth, D.V.M. 
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Elizabeth Tullett
DVM


Open 7 Days
a week
Fridays till
8pm.

413-443-4949

Bilmar Small
Animal
Hospital



www.allenheights.com

Full Service Hospital



 
Drop Off Service

Housecalls




Dr.
Dr.
Dr.
Dr.

House Calls
on
Tuesday!

VCA All Caring Animal Hospital

Conventional & Holistic Veterinary Medicine


Chiropractic & Acupuncture
440 Stockbridge Road, Great Barrington, MA




Looking for housecalls?





Call Dr. Blanchard for details

413-528-1180 Fax 413-528-1763




www.vcaallcaring.com

Hours:
Mon-Fri 8-5, Sat. 8-12

289 Dalton Avenue


Pittsfield, MA 01201

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413-528-8020

Certified in
Veterinary Acupuncture

Claire Blanchard
Donald Gulick
Hanan Caine

Emily Newman




776 Main St., Great Barrington, MA



Hours: 8:30-5 Mon.-Fri, 8:30-Noon Sat.



  Call for appointment




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Adoptions
in the tri-state area

Spring is here!
And that means daffodils, tulips... and KITTENS! Spring is kitten season and we
are in need of foster homes to care for the adorable little fluffballs until they
are ready to go to their new homes. We provide food and veterinary care, you
provide love and socialization. If you are interested in fostering, please give us
a call at 413/448-9800.

Varric

Please call

Berkshire Humane Society


413-447-7878

At the

Eleanor Sonsini Animal Shelter

Izzy

Each week

will be sponsoring a
If that dog's adopted during that week,
Haddad Subaru will pay $50 towards the adoption fee!
THIS WEEKS DOG IS:
Pike

I came to the shelter when my owners were moving to no pet housing.


I was good with another dog until it was food time, then we would fight.
I may do best in a home without other animals due to my possessiveness of food. I did a cat test and I am not a fan! I have lived with older
children and we did well together. I love to take rides in the car. I am a
bit fearful of of loud noises like thunder and fireworks. I have been
known to hide from them. I have a sensitive stomach and have been
placed on a limited ingredient food to see if that helps me. I am sweet,
social with everyone and well behaved.

Sponsored by:

DESPERATE PLEA

Part of the package of becoming a


pet parent is assuming the responsibility of
your new family pet in a positive
and loving way. As its guardian you must
see that your pet goes to a veterinarian on a
regular basis as well as when an illness
or accident demands such a visit.

Open Mon. - Fri. 7am 7pm, & Sat. 8am 1pm

Merrill Road,
Pittsfield

info@berkshiremm.com

214 Barker Rd., Pittsfield, MA 314-447-7878

This gorgeous girl is Izzy! At 10 months old she is still


quite the puppy and all that entails! She has a vivacious
spirit and will need a home that can burn some of her
energy off. Don't let her energy fool you though she can
be a sweetheart who loves to snuggle on the couch.
We are currently working on her obedience training.

for

Julie & Petey

Julie
Dr. Sally Umlauf

413-551-7251 450 Pittsfield Rd., Lenox www.lenoxcathospital.com

!
p
l
e
H
e
s
Plea

Petey

JULIE and PETEY have been advertised for a long time . Their need to find
good homes is now DESPERATE. They are both dalmatian-pit mixes who
love people, all people ! They do not get along with other animals. Recently
their foster parents conditions have changed, making it no longer possible
for them to remain in their current foster homes. PLEASE contact Harriet of
Dalmatian Adoption Inc. ASAP at 917-670-3892 or hckoss@aol.com if you can help
these two dogs by fostering or adopting them. They can be transferred to
your home if your application. references and home visit are approved,
Thank you for considering helping these two affectionate dal-pit dogs.

For questions and an application

Harriet Koss 917-670-3892


email: hckoss@aol.com

animal life go-to directory

boarding

rescues & shelters

Bow Meow Regency

NE Basset Hound Rescue, Inc.

A Boarding Facility for Dogs.

Dawna Hartman, Intake Coordinator,


68dawna@gmail.com, www.nebhr.org

92 Cook Road, Sheffield, MA 01257


Honor S. Blume 413-229-0035
www.bowmeowregency.com

(508) 243-3622 MA

Ginas K-9 Bed & Breakfast

Quality care pet sitting in my safe, comfortable home

349 Farm Road, Copake, NY 12516


Gina 518-329-4675

Happy Dog Kennel & Day Care


Boarding Day Care Training

Covering, Alford, North Egremont, Hillsdale


Old Chatham, Chatham and more!
Nora Hayes 413-528-0877

pet stores

BensDotters Pet

Quality Foods & Supplies, Raw Diet Specialists.

940 Main Street, Great Barrington, MA


www.BENSDOTTERS.com

413-528-4940

Berkshire Humane Society

413-447-7878 www.berkshirehumane.org
214 Barker Road, Pittsfield, MA

Bluebird Farm Animal Sanctuary


413-446-3345

Dalmation Rescue
Harriet Koss

Eleanor Sonsini Animal Shelter

Open Tues.-Fri. 12 to 6pm, Sat. & Sun. 12 - 5pm


Closed Mondays

413-448-9800 www.sonsinianimalshelter.org
63 Downing Parkway, Pittsfield, MA

veterinarian services

Allen Heights Veterinary Hospital


Dog and Cat Grooming
Amanda Bevens, 289 Dalton Ave., Pittsfield, MA

413-443-4949

Berkshire Ambulatory
Veterinary Services

North County Veterinary Hospital

Open Tues.- Sat. 10am to 4pm, Thurs Eve. 5 - 8pm


Sun. Afternoon 1 - 4pm Closed Mondays

(917) 670-3892
hckoss@aol.com

301 Stockbridge Road, Great Barrington, MA


413-717-4244 www.berkshirehumane.org

413-637-2223

Meow Growl

rescues & shelters

Open Wed. & Fri. 10am - 4pm, Thurs. 10am - 6pm,


Sunday 12 - 4pm

www.berkshirelargeanimal.com

413-637-0800 www.chezpet.com

413-243-1220

Purradise

Mobile practice providing quality medical and surgical care


for horses and farm animals. Vaccination, strategic deworming,
Coggins & health certificates, custom dentistry (hand & Powerfloat), castrations, dehorning, & more. Serving MA & NY
by appointment.

Premium foods and treats. A neighborhood pet


supply store with everything you need for
a healthy pet. Special orders welcome.
Lenox Commons, 55 Pittsfield Rd., Lenox, MA

59 Main St., Lee, MA www.Meowandgrowl.com

(toll free) 877-528-0637


www.nepyresq.org

Yoanna Y. Maitre, DVM

Chez Pet

All organic-Natural Dog & Cat Food


Self Serve Dog Wash Stations!

NE Pyreness Rescue

Dr. John C. Reynolds, Dr. Laura A. Eiszler


& Dr. Lindsay M. Cermak, DVMs

pet times

A listing of upcoming events in


the Tri-state area

April 14th 6:30pm

Berkshire Disaster Animal Response Team


Presents Dr. Yoanna Maitre DVM,
Berkshire Ambulatory Veterinary Services

LARGE ANIMAL FIRST AID


Topics covered will include large animal behavior and
restraint, how to take vital signs, contents of a first aid
kit, bandaging, and common medical emergencies and
their treatment. Feel free to share, or contact us for more
information. Support the Animal Support Project.
Held in the Classroom at
Berkshire Humane Society
214 Barker Road, Pittsfield 413-447-7878

April 24th 6pm

Operation Delta Dog fundraising


PAINTING PARTY
by Tipsy Art Parties
$40 per person

(20% of cost goes to benefit Operation Delta Dog)

Patricks Pub, Pittsfield.


To reserve your space & payment go to:
www.tipsyartparty.net

May 4th 7pm

DALTON REGISTERED VOTERS Annual Town Meeting.


Come and vote YES for the bylaw to
exclude wild animals in the circus.
Learn more, go to www.mspca.org/circus

May 9th 10 to 12pm

BENSDOTTERS Pet
Pet Wellness Events for Pet Owners
Hounds Tooth Non-Anesthetic
Dental Cleaning Clinic
Call for Cost 413-528-4940

Route 7, Great Barrington

838 Curran Memorial Hwy, North Adams, MA

413-664-4570

Di
Done

Pittsfield Veterinary Hospital


24 Hour Emergency care, animal chiropractic and dental care.

John C. Reynolds, DVM, Laura A. Eiszler, DVM,


Michelle P. Looney, DVM, Melinda M. Payson, DVM,
Carmen A. Swinson, DVM, , Lindsay M. Cermak, DVM
Hours: Daily Mon-Fri. 8am to 8pm,.Sat. & Sun 10am-5pm
www.pittsfieldvet.com

413-499-1580

resources

Environmental Police
1-800-632-8075

Massachusetts SPCA
1-800-628-5808

Massachusetts Wildlife
413-684-1646

Berkshire
se

Serving th

Canidae, Taste
Source, Chick
Soul & Ma

Dirty Dogs
Done Dirt Cheap

Come Sniff Us Out on Facebook www


636 West Housatonic St. Pittsfield, MA (413)4

Berkshire Countys only fullyloaded, self-serve dog wash


636 W. Housatonic St., Pittsfield

(413) 448-8240

www.dunkingdoggies.com

CARING FOR PETS SINCE 1957


Convenient Location with Ample Parking
Z'

Monday-Friday 10a-6p Saturday-Sunday 10a-4p


WWW.BENSDOTTERS.COM

BENSDOTTERS PET
940 MAIN STREET, GREAT BARRINGTON, MA 413-528-4940

Pet Wellness Events for Pet Owners


* May 9, 2015 *
HoundsTooth Non-Anesthetic Dental Cleaning Clinic

* June 21, 2015 *


Understanding the Nutritional Needs of Your Pet

* July 19, 2015 *


An Introduction to Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine

* August 9, 2015 *
>' to Homeopathic Remedies for Pets
All events are s Pet.
With the exception of the Dental Clinic, all events are free of charge,
require no advance reservation, and run from 10am to about noon.
All event details are available on our website. Call for Dental Clinic reservations.

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