b y ats and ogs - janet vormittag · well-behaved dogs.” smith said. they help home-bound pet...

cats and dogs

a Magazine devoted to coMpanion aniMals

FREESpring 2019

Tinker needs a home 4

Curt Harris and OdinK9 Camo Companions – Page 9

Anne Munford (left), Dr. Karen Barbu with Tig and Michelle Jones.

West Michigan Spay & Neuter Clinic – Page 23

B Y

Jess Smith (left), Spice, Tanelle McFadyenGrand Rapids Pit Bull Alliance – Page 7

Cats and Dogs - 3Spring 2019 • www.catsanddogsmagazine.com

Animals for Adoption BestPals Animal Rescue .................................................. Carol’s Ferals .......................................................................

Cannonsville Critters ..................................................

Crash’s Landing .................................................................

Muskegon Humane Society .........................................

Reuben’s Room Cat Rescue ............................................

Vicky’s Pet Connection .................................................

Almost Every Month

Willow’s World .................................................................

Business Card Directory ..............................................

On the Wild Side ................................................................ Cat Corner ............................................................................

Furry Philosophy ...............................................................

In Memory ..............................................................................

Ask the Trainer ................................................................... Community Resource Guide .......................................

Features Grand Rapids Pit Bull Alliance ............................... K9 Camo Companions ......................................................

Buddy’s Story .......................................................................

West Michigan Spay & Neuter Clinic ....................

CONTENTS

5

6

8

11

12

14

17

4

10

10

15

16

18

19

21

7

9

13

23

Grand Rapids Pit Bull AlliancePage 7

Maple needs a homePage 5

cats and dogs

PO Box 996, Jenison, MI 49429-0996

616-777-0645 [email protected]

www.catsanddogsmagazine.com

Cats and Dogs, founded in 2006, is a free publication supported by advertisers. Magazines are distributed through-out Kent, Ottawa, Muskegon and surrounding counties. We are not responsible for services and products advertised. All rights reserved. No part of this magazine may be reproduced without permission from the publisher.

Publisher: Janet Vormittag Owner: JLV Enterprises LLC

DeadlinesSpring: Feb. 15 - Summer: May 15Fall: August 15 - Winter: Nov. 15

Home delivery of Cats and Dogs is $16 per year. Make your check payable to Cats and Dogs and mail to:

Cats and Dogs, P.O. Box 996, Jenison, MI 49429-0996

Advertising information: 616-777-0645 - [email protected]

Cats and Dogs - 4 www.catsanddogsmagazine.com • Spring 2019

You can purchase Life With Sally: Little White Dog Tails, Still Spinnin’ Tails, Waggin’ More Tails and Princess Tails in Grand Haven at Must Love Dogs and The Bookman; in Grand Rapids at Schulers Books. You can order books at amazon.com. The cost is $13.95. The books are also available on Kindle and Nook for $5.99.

Willow’s World Morning routine

By Tricia L. McDonald

With three dogs and two cats, mornings can be interesting.

Ernie starts the day by crawling out from under the blankets to lick Mike’s face. Mike gives him a gentle shove toward my side of the bed.

“Go see your mom.” Lick, lick, lick. “Go see your mom.” Lick, lick, lick. “Ernie, go see your mom.”

Ernie walks on top of Willow, still under the covers, and focuses his face licking on me. Dog-tongue-face-licking grosses me out, so I lift the blankets and give him a little push. On a good morning, he crawls under, snuggles up to Willow and we all get a bit more sleep.

More often than not, Willow wakes up when Ernie walks on her. She comes out from the blankets and fanatically licks Mike’s face. Ernie then heads back to Mike and joins in on the dog-slobber-facial. Eli, not wanting to be left out, soon has his tongue in on the action. I’ve moved far away from the dog ends now facing me. If I don’t move fast enough, my head often gets stepped on or I get a close-up view of a butt.

Mike escapes to the bathroom and starts getting ready for work. Now all the dog attention is on me. I try to get everyone settled back down, hoping for a few more minutes of sleep. It is often futile.

I climb out of bed and put on my bathrobe, and Eli and Willow are at my feet. Ernie wiggles on the bed, waiting to be helped to the floor. I considered getting stairs for the bed, but I think Eli and Willow like that they can use the bed to get away from him.

Once everyone is on the floor, I open the door and there is a race down the hall to the sliding glass door in the dining room. After collars have been put on, I open the door and Ernie and Eli run across the yard to the woods. Willow sits at the door while I attach her leash and then she runs out. Willow is not a keen believer in the word “here.” To her it means “I can’t hear you” and that is why she has to be on a leash. Now all three squat at various places taking care of their “business.”

While the dogs are out squatting, Socks is giving me hell for…I don’t know? Could be the water bowl is now empty. Could be he’s hungry. Could be he is just saying good morning. Or it could be that it is just what he does in the morning.

Millie is sitting on a chair at the end of the dining room table and when I walk by she swats at me. After I let the dogs back inside, Millie jumps down and heads into the kitchen with the dog pack.

I place three dog bowls on the counter. One green, one blue and one stainless steel. They used to be really

fast eaters—more like swallowers—until I found dishes specifically designed to slow down their eating. The new dishes worked great for Eli and Ernie. Willow hated hers and showed her discontent by picking up her bowl full of food and dumping it upside down. She now eats out of a regular dish.

The dogs sit in their places and once their food is ready, I put a dish in front of them. They all look at me until I give the command “okay” and point to the dishes. I love this part because they act like well-mannered dogs. Not at all consistent with the rest of their mis-behaviors.

Willow always finishes eating first and heads over to Ernie to help him. He gives her a little side growl, so she walks two steps away and sits. Once he finishes, the two of them go stand by Eli and give the ultimate two-dog stare-down. He doesn’t seem to notice the vultures.

Once the dogs are done eating, the cats have been fed and their litter boxes cleaned, it is time for the morning lap-nap. This is my absolute favorite time of day. I sit down on the big comfy chair in the sitting room. Within minutes, Ernie is at my feet waiting for the lift. Eli jumps onto the chair and lays next to me. Willow leaps onto the chair and makes her way to my lap. If Ernie is already there, she uses her snout to move him off. Once she is settled, Ernie climbs on top of her and snuggles in.

As soon as the dogs are snoozing, Millie settles herself onto the back of the chair and is soon sleeping. The only furry not sleeping on the chair with me is old man Socks. The favorite place for his 21-year-old bones is curled up on the heating register.


A special thanks to Noah’s Pet Cemetery & Crematory for sponsoring our page.


By Janet Vormittag

Tanelle McFadyen grew up with chows and was used to breed discrimination, but five years ago when she adopted Vinny the prejudice increased. Vinny was a pit bull type dog.

“When I got him the discrimination was in my face,” she said.

McFadyen explained that pit bull isn’t a breed, but an umbrella term used to describe dogs with similar characteristics such as a stocky muscular build and a blocky head. The stereotype often includes American staffordshire terrier, staffordshire terrier, bull terrier, bull mastiff, American pit bull terrier, American bulldogs and more, plus mixes between these and other breeds.

“This is why we tend to use pit bull type dog,” McFadyen said.

McFadyen fostered Vinny for the Humane Society of West Michigan where she works in canine behavior and enrichment.

“I was a foster failure,” she said, meaning she adopted the dog she was supposed to be giving a temporary home.

McFadyen was surprised when people would cross the street when she walked Vinny even though he was leashed and well behaved. She also discovered hate groups that wanted to eradicate pit bulls type dogs.

McFadyen’s experiences with Vinny inspired her to start a group to advocate for dogs who face discrimination.

“I want to speak on their behalf,” she said. In 2017, with friends Jess Smith and Lyndsey

Sturgeon, she started Grand Rapids Pit Bull Alliance They’re in the process of obtaining their 501 c3 non-profit status. The alliance is a networking and advocacy organization, not a rescue group. They advocate for breeds susceptible to breed specify legislation and discrimination.

“Every dog is an individual,” Smith said, adding that a dog shouldn’t be judged by the actions of another dog or its irresponsible owners.

According to McFadyen, there are 22 municipalities in Michigan that have breed specific legislation. Such laws aren’t just for pit bull type dogs, any breed can be included.

Smith had three pit bull type dogs when she joined the alliance. “They are my favorite breed. I can’t believe anyone hates them,” she said. “They’re the friendliest, happiest, dorkiest dogs.”

Smith worked at the Humane Society for four years and discovered pit bull type dogs usually passed temperament testing. She described them as excitable social dogs who have five seconds of energy and then want to sit on the couch next to you.

She constantly heard people say they didn’t want a pit bull, but if she introduced them to one they usually had a change of heart. “If you get to know one, they’ll steal your heart,” she said. “All the things you hear are not factual.”

The Alliance also has a Pet Outreach Program and partners with Meals on Wheels to provide pet food for senior pet owners.

“Our outreach goals are bigger than providing food. We want to help people keep their pets and have them be well-behaved dogs.” Smith said. They help home-bound pet owners with supplies, dog training, vaccines and transportation for spay/neuter.

The women have long-term goals that they pattern after dog advocacy groups in southeast Michigan such as CHAINED, Dog Aide and ASK. Those groups advocate for dogs chained in backyards and offer pet owners kennels and other supplies. Through friendly advocacy, they hope outside dogs will eventually be brought inside.

“We’re starting small and learning from groups with experience,” McFadyen said.

For more information about Grand Rapids Pit Bull Alliance email [email protected] or follow them on Facebook.

Grand Rapids Pit Bull Allianceadvocating for pit bull type dogs

Jess Smith, left, Spice, Tanelle McFadyen. Spice was recently adopted after more than a year at

the Humane Society of West Michigan.

Tanelle McFadyen working with Kermit. Kermit is available for adoption at the Humane Society of West Michigan.


By Janet Vormittag

In 2014, Curt Harris and a black Lab mix were brought together through a national organization that pair veterans with dogs. Harris and the dog, now named Odin, bonded and are now inseparable.

“Odin provides me comfort from anxiety and wakes me up from nightmares,” Harris said.

Harris served eight years in the Army and was stationed in the Middle East. He was awarded the Iraqi Freedom Campaign Medal and an Army Commendation Medal. The war took its toll and now he’s in recovery mode. Odin is very much part of that recovery. But Harris isn’t the only one who is benefiting.

Odin had been found wandering in the winter in a rural county. He was thin, malnourished and his paws were almost frozen when he was rescued.

Today Harris and Odin are part of a local group, K9 Camo Companions, which was founded in 2016 by Dr. Lori Vorpi.

Statistics show 22 veterans commit suicide every day. Vorpi knows having a companion animal to care for can make a world of difference.

As a chiropractor, Vorpi said her holistic training made her aware that the military relies too heavily on medications for veterans.

“Dogs are better than Prozac,” she said.Vorpi was inspired to help veterans because her dad

was an Army veteran, having served in Korea, and her uncle was a Navy veteran, having served in Viet Nam. Her daughter’s best friend served in Afghanistan.

About half the veterans K9 Camo help need a dog for emotional support. The rest just want a pet. The reason doesn’t matter. “We don’t want pet ownership to be cost prohibitive for veterans,” Vorpi said.

Veterans go through a series of interviews before they’re paired with a dog. “We don’t want to set up a veteran to fail,” Vorpi said. They learn about pet care, the importance of training and the realistic aspects of living with a dog such as barking and shedding.

Each veteran is assigned a three-member team; someone from K9 Camo, a dog trainer and a fellow veteran as a mentor.

After it’s determined what type of dog would best suit the veteran, local rescues and shelters are contacted to find the right animal.

“It’s a very tailored program,” Vorpi said.The dogs are checked by a veterinarian, vaccinated,

spayed or neutered, microchipped, trained, and licensed. The dogs and veterans go through training together to help ensure success.

The organization serves 84 veteran families and adds two or more every month. About 15 of those families use

the K9 Camo’s Pet Pantry. The pantry is stocked with dog and cat food, kitty litter, toys, leashes, collars, doggie sweaters and anything else a pet owner might need. They go through 1,000 pounds of pet food each month.

K9 Camo Companions is a non-profit organization and is overseen by a 9-member board. About 30 volunteers do whatever needs to be done including helping with the web site, the pet pantry and special events.

The group is funded through donations and a variety of fund-raisers such as dog washes, golf outings, car shows, and 5k runs. For 13 years Vorpi has organized Motorcycles for Mutts, an annual benefit ride, with the proceeds donated to various community organizations. Now she dedicates the fund-raiser to K9 Camo.

An unintended by product of pairing veterans with dogs is that veterans often get involved with the organization and help with events. Harris now serves on the Board of Directors and is helping organize Motorcycles for Mutts.

Harris said he regards Vorpi as a third mother. His birth mom died when he was in high school. His second mother is his step-mom.

“Lori is a straight-shooter. She doesn’t sugarcoat anything. She’s a remarkable person,” he said. Volunteering for K9 Camo Companions has given him a sense of purpose. “It’s been a blessing all around.”

K9 Camo Companions is located at 9161 Sparta Ave. NW, Suite B, Sparta, MI 49345. For more information visit K9camocompanions.com or email [email protected] or call 616-970-0234.

K9 Camo Companions helping veterans and dogs

Veteran Curt Harris, Odin, and Dr. Lori Vorpi.


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Forever Friend deserves

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Contact us for advertising information [email protected]

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On the Wild Side

with Allyson Swanson

We at the Wildlife Rehab Center in Grand Rapids speak out frequently on the dangers of people raising wildlife. Unfortunately, the draw of an orphaned baby is often too much for people and in that brief moment, the pros outweigh the cons. After all, how hard can it be?

Enter “Fred” and his family. Fred, now known as “Fritz” is a young flying squirrel who was taken in as an orphan and hand raised by his human family. With no other squirrels to grow up with, Fritz never learned a healthy fear of humans, nor the essential lessons that would allow him to survive in the wild. Kept as a pet, he quickly grew friendly and attached to his human family.

However, raising wildlife isn’t without its challenges as his family soon found out. At one point in his early days, it was suspected Fritz had a skin condition and he was given an over-the-counter medication that caused blindness in one eye. Then, more recently his paw got stuck in a string in his cage. The string cut off circulation to that paw, and he is now facing the prospect of amputation.

Luckily for Fritz his human family recognized he needed more specialized care. It was hard on them to lose a family member, but we assured them Fritz would be given a good quality of life. Our plan for him is to undergo surgery. Then we’ll add him to our growing education and outreach program where we can continue to teach kids and adults the importance of seeking out a licensed wildlife rehabber.

It is sad on us to think that Fritz will never know the sensation of gliding through the trees, or have a family of his own. However, given his circumstances, we are pleased to offer him a place with us so that he can help others of his kind reach their much-deserved freedom.

Welcome to the WRC family, Fritz!

Allyson Swanson is a Licensed Wildlife Rehabilitator with Wildlife Rehab Center Ltd, 1504 Union Ave NE, Grand Rapids. She has been licensed for the past 5 years but started as a volunteer over thirteen years ago. Since then she has worked with countless species of birds and mammals and has become one of the main local resources for Virginia Opossums. She is also the Center’s Education Coordinator and does presentations with their Educational Ambassador animals. [email protected] – 616-606-5805

www.catsanddogsmagazine.com • Spring 2019 Cats and Dogs -11Spring 2019 • www.catsanddogsmagazine.com


This page paid for by Clock Timeless Pets!

Cats and Dogs -13Spring 2019 • www.catsanddogsmagazine.com


This Reuben’s Room page is sponsored by

Sleepy Hollow Pet Cemetery.

Cats and Dogs -15Spring 2019 • www.catsanddogsmagazine.com

Call for an Appointment

231-366-7067

West Michigan Spay & Neuter Clinic

(a 501c3 non-profit organization that accepts donations)

6130 Airline RoadFruitport, MI 49415

[email protected]

A low-cost spay/neuter clinic.

In-Home Pet Care When You Can’t Be There

During my 18 years of working in veterinary medicine, I realized the need for an alternative to boarding. Thus, The Cat’s Meow Pet Sitters was created. By keeping your feline friend in her familiar home surroundings, you and your cat experience less stress while you are away. My first home visit with you and your cat is at no charge. Information regarding medical care, instructions on feeding and watering, litter box patrol and playing with and/or grooming your cat will all be discussed. At no additional charge, bringing in mail and/or newspapers and watering plants can also be done. Pampering your cat in her/his own home is a wise alternative to boarding. Your cat will thank you! Jeanine Buckner, Owner

THE CAT’S MEOW Pet Sitters

Jeanine Buckner Veterinary Assistant

616-791-9696 Loving Home Care For Your Pet

C a t C o r n e r

After 50 years of personal cat rescue and twelve years of owning a one-of-a-kind cat hotel, Michele Dunckel retired and relocated to Boston. Then she moved to Ireland! Her passion for cats continues. Reach her at [email protected].

The Cats of Fuerteventura

By Michele Dunckel

One of my retirement goals was to travel and experience new cultures. For the last two weeks, I’ve been vacationing on Fuerteventura, one of the Canary Islands. While they are part of Spain, they are off the west coast of Africa just across from the Sahara Desert.

I was pleasantly surprised that these island dwellers love their cats.

Their friendly pets wander around the narrow streets of the villages, which, if you read my column regularly, you know I abhor allowing cats outside. But the cats here are loved by residents and tourists alike and are quite safe.

Predators that exist in other places don’t exist here. The only natural predator that I know of would be the poisonous snakes, which stay primarily in rural areas. Weather is sunny and mild year round. There are no roaming packs of dogs, wolves, fox or coyotes. The roads are so twisty, hilly and narrow that even the threat of speeding automobiles is limited.

The cats are very healthy with glossy fur, no sign of disease and well-fed bellies. They’re tame and accepting. While I was petting one of them, she rolled over onto her back so I could rub her tummy. A sure sign she was used to regular affection and had no fear.

For those of you shivering away in this year’s miserable winter, it’s breeding time for unspayed/unneutered kitties. If you have such a cat, get them into your vet as quickly as you can to prevent a batch of kittens for which homes will need to be found. And this applies to males, too. Your unneutered male will try every trick in the book to get outside and fight for breeding rights, causing him injury and disease. You can prevent it with a simple trip to the vet. If you think you can’t afford it, contact the spay and neuter clinics that provide their services at a reduced rate or, in same cases, free.

If you suspect your female is already pregnant, take good care of her. Provide plenty of well-balanced nutrition. Make sure she’s got a place to be safe and warm -- there are many freezing, blizzardy days ahead. A healthy pregnancy ensures healthy kittens, making it easier to find them good homes.

Hang in there! Spring will arrive eventually.


Memory Stones by JodiHonoring the memories of your loved ones in a beau-tiful way. Fur or ashes can be permanently fused in a stone that can be made into a sun catcher, keychain or jewelry.

www.memorystonesbyjodi.com231-893-1227

F u r r y

P h i l o s o p h y

By Jodi Jarvis -Therrian

Let food be thy medicine and medicine be thy food. ~Hippocrates

Recently my beautiful grand-puppy Cash was very ill. She started losing weight, her coat became dull and her muscles became weak. She is only 7 years old and all of a sudden, she couldn’t even make it up the stairs by herself. We knew something was terribly wrong. A lot of my work is done from home, so Cash came to stay with me for a week. I took her to my veterinarians, who I adore, and had tests done.

As wonderful as my veterinarians are, they only have so many hours in the day that has to be shared between clients. I believe every veterinarian cannot specialize in every area, such as nutrition, supplements, etc. I think one of the things I love about my veterinarians is they have an open mind and do not condemn me for doing my own homework. I am very holistic, and they are respectful of my beliefs. Every being is different. We must be our pets’ advocates, and it is our responsibility to research. We must decide what is going to be the best route for our beliefs and for their individual specific symptoms. Indian Shamans (healers), would come stay at your house and observe every aspect of your everyday life, before they would decide the best route to take. You cannot find a medical professional with that kind of time on their hands. We have to put in that time.

The tests ruled out some things with Cash’s condition, and it gave us the tools to find the best route for her. I have studied nutrition, but I also contacted nutrition experts, many friends, one a canine nutritionist. I went through the book, Canine Nutrigenomics from Dr. Dodd’s, also a nutrition guru.

Cash had been on a lot of antibiotics in the past from chronic UTIs. She was also on a dehydrated food that, when she ate too fast, my daughter added less water thinking it would keep it thicker for her. We believe the combination of a compromised colon that was not able to absorb nutrients and a food not being properly hydrated, was causing her to basically starve. Antibiotics can wreak such havoc on the colon. My veterinarians prescribed vitamin B shots. We started her on some very

good digestive enzymes, raw goat’s milk, a different food, pumpkin, bone broth and more.

I am thankful Cash is getting stronger and better every day. I believe it is due to the veterinarians, whole food, proper nutrition and the army of people with knowledge that I accessed, a lot of reading, and love sent to her by so many.

My friend Paula and I have written here in the past about the ever-important subject of nutrition. I urge you, to do your own research, be your pets advocate. Even if something is not wrong with your pet now, nutrition is the best preventative and important factor in life.

It disgusts me the things that FDA allows, and if you get me on my soapbox, I will go on and on. So instead I would like to offer you a few facts.

Dog Food Advisor states, according to the pet food industry, Official Publication, American Association of Feed Control Officials, “Generic meat meal can be legally made from road kill, dead, diseased or dying farm

animals — even euthanized cats and dogs.”

“FDA testing found pentobarbital (used to euthanize pets) in Nutro dog food ,Ol Roy dog food, Kibbles and Bits, and Purina ProPlan, ” ( List is so long, I will add more on my blog)

I would like to ask you to think on this, could you survive on dry cereal your whole life? Possibly, but would you thrive? There is so much information, more than I have enough room to

relay to you. Please visit furryphilosophy.blogspot.com, I will add more resources to access.

My food cliff notes to you are RESEARCH. Where is your meat source from? I highly suggest adding some whole foods, bone broth or at the very least water to hydrate the kibble so it is more readily absorbed.

Healthy food can be “thy medicine.”

Jodi Jarvis -Therrian CPDT-KA CTDIAKC CGC Evaluator


Ask the TrainerWhat kind of training equipment do I need?

For starters, I suggest a quick release collar, 6-foot leash, and lots of healthy treats.

There are so many types of training equipment available on the market it can be confusing. Before you reach for the promised quick fix that works by applying pain or irritation to your dog to stop a behavior, understand there are many other options. Wouldn’t you rather be rewarded for doing something than have discomfort or pain inflicted upon you when you did something your family members didn’t like?

The ASPCA supports “training methods that are based on an understanding of how animals learn and…does not inflict unnecessary distress or discomfort on the pet. Humane training makes primary use of lures and rewards such as food, praise, petting and play…The ASPCA supports the use of methods and equipment that effectively accomplish the training objective with the least amount of stress for the pet…”

The Association of Professional Dog Trainers supports using the least intrusive, minimally aversive approach. Intrusive being anything uninvited/unwelcome. Aversive being anything the dog does not like. They suggest first ensuring physical and nutritional wellness. Next they suggest the following steps. 1. Restructure environment to reduce stimuli. 2. Reward desired behavior to increase the probability that it will occur. 3. Reward a replacement behavior and remove

the reward for the problem behavior. 4. Lastly, after all these other approaches are exhausted, if the behavior still needs to be changed, you can consider adding something the dog does not like to reduce the probability of the problem behavior.

This can be confusing at first, but simply ask yourself how the training equipment you are considering is supposed to work. If you don’t know, don’t buy it. Do more research. Try to remove the stimuli and reinforcement that happens when your dog does the behavior you don’t like. Teach your dog something to do instead. If you choose training equipment your dog may not like, try to get them to like it or reduce their uncomfortableness with it by properly conditioning them to the equipment.

Paula Smith is a certified professional dog trainer through the CCPDT and is the founder of Dog Blessed, LLC. She has served on animal welfare boards and works with them and other community groups to enhance the lives of dogs and teach others about

dog behavior and humane training techniques focused on relationships. Her goal is to strengthen the relationship between humans and canines by focusing on enhancing cross species communication. If you have a question you would like to have answered here, please email Paula at [email protected] or contact her at www. dogblessedllc.com.


Coming soon to

West Michigan

Offering affordable routine wellness care

and spay/neuter services.

www.quickfixvet.com


Community Resource Guide

Humane Societies/Shelters

Kent County Animal Shelter740 Fuller Ave. NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49503616-632-7300 - www.accesskent.com/kcas

Allegan County Animal Shelter2293 33rd Street, Allegan, MI 49010269-686-5112 - www.petfinder.com/shelters/MI299.html

Harbor Humane Society14345 Bagley Street (at US 31), West Olive, MI 49460616-399-2119 - www.harborhumane.org

Humane Society of West Michigan3077 Wilson Drive NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49534616-453-8900 - www.hswestmi.org

Ionia County Animal Shelter3853 Sparrow Drive, Ionia, MI 48846616-527-9040 - www.petfinder.com/shelters/MI342.html

Rescue Groups

Australian Shepherd Rescue in Michigan www.arim.org

Basenji Rescue and Transport (BRAT)www.basenjirescue.org - [email protected]

Basset Hound Rescue of Michigan 501 (c) (3)616-291-1357 - www.bhrom.org

Bellowood All breed canine rescue. Cedar Springs, Michiganwww.bellowoodrescue.com – 616-696-2846

Bellwether HarborP.O. Box 475, 7645 West 48th St., Fremont, MI 49412231-924-9230 - www.bellwetherharbor.org

Cemeteries

Allies for Greyhounds of West Michigan, Inc.866-929-DOGS - http://www.afgwm.org

A Feral Haven -- Advocating for feral cats in Ottawa Countywww.aferalhavenmi.org – 616-399-1774 [email protected]

A New Start on Life – Specializing in puppy mill dogswww.anewstartonlife.com - 1-866-716-9393

Pet In-Home HospiceHeaven at Home Pet HospiceIn-home pet hospice, palliative pet care and euthanasia for companion animals616-498-1316 – [email protected] www.pethospicevet.com

Wolf Song Enterprises, LLCAnimal behavior consulting, Animal training, Animal [email protected] – 231-744-7141

Pet TrainingClock Timeless Pets1469 Peck St., Muskegon, MI 49441231-722-3721 - www.clocktimelesspets.com

The Cat’s Meow Loving Home Care For Your CatJeanine Buckner, veterinary assistant - 616-481-6878

Noah’s Pet Cemetery & Crematory2727 Orange Ave. SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49546616-949-1390 – [email protected]

Oak Haven Pet Crematorium & Cemetery10950 Northland Dr., Rockford, MI 49341www.oakhavenpc.2295 – 616-866-2295

Sleepy Hollow Pet Cemetery2755 64th St. SW, Byron Center, MI 49315616-538-6050 – [email protected]

Pet Boarding/SittersCanine Country Club In-home pet sitting and dog walking231-755-3230

Cannonsville Critters – Helping cats in Montcalm CountyMichelle Hocking, 989-287-2553

Carol’s Ferals –Trap-Neuter-Return and Adoption616-560-0555 – www.carolsferals.org

Cat Tales RescueMuskegon, 1-231-798-1033

BestPals Animal Rescue Center13888 Blair St., Holland, MI 49424 Call for appointment, 616-212-3368www.bestpalsarc.wix.com – [email protected]

Holiday Pet Resort & Salon, Boarding, Grooming, Day Care10950 Northland Dr., Rockford, MI 49341www.holidaypetresort.net – (616) 866-2294 – 800-776-8498

Faithful to Felines - Cat rescue in Muskegon Countywww.petfinder.com/shelters/MI75.html – [email protected]

Family Paws RescueNon-profit 501c3 – Grand Rapids616-322-4031 – www.familypawsrescue.com

Focus on Ferals - Trap-Neuter-Return616-826-0927 - www.focusonferals.org

Forever Pets – Helping Homeless Pets Find Forever Homes231-225-1184 – www.forever-pets.petfinder.com

Crash’s Landing - Cat Rescue & Placement CenterNo-kill, Non-profit 501(c) organization616-821-6065 - www.crashslanding.org

Continued on page 22


Spay/Neuter

Wild Dog Rescue2525 Blue Star Highway, Fennville, MI [email protected] - www.mosseyhollow.com

Great Lakes Weimaraner Rescuewww.greatlakesweimrescue.com - 1-877-SAV-A-WEIM

Headin’ Home Pet Rescue, Inc.www.headinhomerescue.org - 616-886-1474

Hearts of Hope Dog Rescue616-366-8455 - [email protected]

Heaven Can Wait Animal HavenFeline adoptions – 231-737-5644

Keeper Kitties Rescue313-400-5949 – [email protected] – kkrescue.org Keeshond Rescue Central Stateswww.petfinder.com/shelters/IL119.html – 847-922-2240

Lake Haven - Non-profit rescue for cats and dogs www.lakehavenrescue.org

LuvnPupz - Rescue - Rehabilitate - Rehomewww.luvnpupz.org – [email protected]

The Long Dog Retreat Dachshund Rescue501 (c) (3) organization in SW Michiganwww.thelongdogretreat.org – 757-647-5146

TLC Chow Rescue 616-738-0438 - www.tlcchowrescue.com

Vicky’s Pet Connection www.vickyspetconnection.com

Voice of Animals Rescue www.voiceofanimals.petfinder.org

West Michigan Critter Haven – small animal rescuewww.wmicritterhaven.org - [email protected]

Safe Haven Humane SocietyP.O. Box 55, Ionia, MI 48846 – Fax: 517-579-5948616-522-1611 – [email protected] – www.shhspets.com

West Michigan Ferret ConnectionEducation - Boarding - Adoptions - RescueDee Gage, 616-447-2978 - [email protected]

Westie Rescue Michigan248-879-2479 - [email protected] - www.westierescue-mi.com

Golden Years Alaskan Malamute RescueShirley Thomas, 231-766-2170 - [email protected]

Grand River Rover Rescue Portland, MI – 517-526-3621 – [email protected]/shelters/MI706.html

G.R.A.C.E. Greyhound Retirement, Adoption, Care, and Edu-cation - www.houndsofgrace.org

Great Lakes Golden Retriever Rescue616-336-1707 – www.greatlakesgoldens.org

Reuben’s Room Cat Rescue - Jeanine BucknerA no-kill, non-profit 501 (c) (3) organization616-481-6878 - www.reubensroom.petfinder.com

Pet Tales RescueKentwood, MI – www.pettalesrescue.com

Pound Buddies Animal Shelter & Adoption Center 1300 East Keating Ave., Muskegon, MI231-724-6500 - www.poundbuddies.org

Wishbone Pet Rescue AllianceP.O. Box 124, Douglas, MI 49406(800) 475-0776 - www.wishbonepetrescue.org

Mackenzie’s Animal Sanctuary - a no-kill dog sanctuarywww.mackenzies.info - 616-693-2490

Michele’s Rescuewww.michelesrescue.com - [email protected]

Muskegon Humane Society - a no kill, non-profit shelter2640 Marquette Ave., Muskegon, MI 49442231-773-8689 - www.muskegonhumanesociety.org

Noah Project - a no-kill, non-profit animal shelter5205 Airline Road, Muskegon, MI 49444www.noahproject.petfinder.com - 231-865-1264

West Michigan Spay and Neuter Clinic6130 Airline Road, Fruitport, MI 49415www.wmspayandneuter.org – 231-366-7067

Wildlife Rehab Center1504 Union Ave. NE, Grand Rapids616-361-6109 – www.wildlife-rehab-center.org

Critter Cottage - Adoption/outreach for Vicky’s Pet Connection 7205 Thornapple River Drive SE, Ada, MI616-682-4855 - www.vickyspetconnection.org

Specialty Businesses

Wildlife

Wishbone House – Thrift shop and Pet Adoptions165 Blue Star Highway, Douglas, MI269-455-5247 – www.wishbonepetrescue.org

Lowell Farm and Wildlife Center12494 Vergennes St., Lowell, MI616-885-4223 – www.farmwildlife.org

Continued from page 21


By Janet Vormittag

Eight years after opening, the non-profit West Michigan Spay & Neuter Clinic is celebrating completing 26,000 surgeries.

They are also celebrating the hiring of Michelle Jones as the new director. Jones started mid-December and replaced Kim Patterson who left for a full time job.

Jones said the job is perfect for her. She loves animals and it fits her schedule. She’s married and the couple’s youngest child will leave for college this year. Her background includes graphic arts and business.

After two months on the job, Jones loves getting up and coming into work. “I found out how incredible and amazing this place is,” she said. “I have the best team. They’re dedicated and loyal.” The Fruitport-based clinic employees 23 part-time workers.

The clinic also has a new veterinarian. Dr. Karen Barbu started six months ago. She joins Dr. Alana Gillhespy who does surgery one day a week.

“We’re excited about our new director and veterinarian. We’re hoping to expand our services,” said clinic cofounder Anne Munford who also serves on the Board of Directors.

Barbu worked at a large animal practice before becoming a stay-at-home mom. She’s happy returning to the work force as a part-timer.

“I love it here. It’s been a big eye opener for me,” Barbu said. She wasn’t aware of the number of homeless cats and dogs and the need for spay/neuter to

combat overpopulation. She performs up to 30 surgeries per day.In early February, Barbu fell in love with a shelter dog that had

been brought in for surgery and offered to foster the pit bull mix. Her husband and two daughters also fell in love and the family adopted the dog.

Jones said her number one goal is fund-raising. The clinic receives some grant money to help clients with the cost of surgery, but grants don’t cover general operating expenses.

The clinic is open three days a week, but Munford and Jones hope to increase that to four days, maybe five. They frequently schedule surgeries weeks in advance and commonly refer people to C-SNIP, a low-cost spay/neuter clinic in Grand Rapids.

Munford said the number of animals in need of surgery hasn’t slowed since they opened in 2010. “We need to find more medical personnel who have a passion for our mission.”

West Michigan Spay and Neuter Clinic, 6130 Airline Road, Fruitport, MI 49415. www.wmspayandneuter.org – 231-366-7067

The West Michigan Spay & Neuter ClinicCelebrating 26,000 Surgeries

Anne Munford, left, Dr. Karen Barbu with Tig, and Michelle

Jones. Tig was abandoned in a cemetery and found by Kathy

Goven who adopted her. Tig had her spay surgery at the clinic.

b y ats and ogs - janet vormittag · well-behaved dogs.” smith said. they help home-bound pet...

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