Paws For People
The essence of pet therapy is the one-on-one connection between a therapy team of one person/one pet, and the individuals they visit.
During the pandemic, even though they have had to suspend all in-person visitations and programs, Paws for People has found many creative ways to stay engaged and connected with the community.
Through live videoconferencing, Paws teams have engaged with residents to enrich their experiences in assisted living, hospice and hospital facilities.
Teams also stay in touch through prerecorded videos, phone calls, posters, cards, drawings and other caring outreach to help break the feelings of isolation.
To help children continue to build their reading skills, PAWS for Reading, in conjunction with partnering libraries, is holding virtual reading sessions. Through a preset Zoom meeting at one of the libraries, children take turns reading to a therapy dog. Kids love it, and reading becomes a lot more enjoyable.
“When everyone had to shelter in place, we realized that those who would benefit from a loving visit from a therapy pet needed Paws for People more than ever,” said Executive Director Lynne Robinson. “So, we’ve reached out in a variety of creative ways to stay connected and support both our members and the community. The response has been gratifying, and we hope that during this time of uncertainty and social distancing, Paws can continue to bring comfort and joy to all those who need us.”
20-Year-Old Golden Retriever
The Internet has fallen in love with a golden retriever whose owners believe her to be the oldest living dog in her breed.
August, also known as Augie, turned 20 on April 24, 2020, and lives with her family in Oakland, Tennessee.
Augie was adopted back in 2014, though recently garnered viral attention after a golden retriever interest group wished her a “Happy Birthday” on Facebook.
“She’s a really sweet girl,” owner Steve Hetterscheidt told “Good Morning America,” adding that Augie loves to eat blueberries. “She’s kind of quiet now. She does a lot of laying around. She’s very alert and always paying attention to what’s going on.”
Hetterscheidt and his wife Jen first fostered Augie when she was 14 years old. At the time, Jen was the intake director at Golden Retriever Rescue of Southern Nevada.
Augie was first adopted at 7 years old through a Craigslist ad near Sioux City, Iowa. That owner had her birth certificate, though there was no pedigree or record of her original descent. With this information, along with a public list of the oldest living dogs, the Hetterscheidts think Augie could be the world’s oldest living golden.
“If you stuck Augie on that list she’d be number 19 and there were no other, older golden retrievers,” Hetterscheidt explained. “We don’t have proof, but we call it a preponderance of evidence.”
Guinness World Records told “GMA” it does not monitor separate categories for different dog breeds.
The current title-holder of world’s oldest dog is a 21-year-old rat terrier named Jake.
Hetterscheidts own three other golden retrievers — Belle, a 7-year-old certified therapy dog who visits children at St. Jude’s Hospital, Sherman, 10, who was born at Golden Retriever Rescue of Southern Nevada and Bruce, 10, whose previous owner, a friend, left the pup to the couple in their will.
On her birthday, Augie enjoyed a carrot cake made specially for dogs.
Four-Legged Employee
Families at Goodstart Early Learning Morwell Central are greeted everyday with “50 kilograms of love and fluff”.
Lilly, the three-year-old Bernese mountain dog works fulltime at the centre providing a range of services to children and staff.
Goodstart Early Learning Morwell Central director Nathan Brown said he went on a two-year waiting list before getting Lilly.
“They are not very well used in Australia because their life expectancy is not as high, they are quite expensive and the wait list for them is huge.”
Lilly undertook temperament training until she turned one and in October 2018 passed her formal training with Lead the Way Training Institute in Melbourne.
She worked alongside Mr Brown at another Goodstart centre in Traralgon before moving to Morwell when the Morwell Central site was completed in February of this year.
“Lilly’s job is really to go around and in essence to give love and be loved,” Mr Brown said.
“Dogs are very forgiving … if a child is escalating Lilly will sense that very quickly and just walk away, the children then want Lilly to come back to them and have to figure out what they need to do, it teaches them to self-regulate then Lilly will return.
“She supports children because she is very low skilled she isn’t able to draw, cut or build so it makes the children more comfortable trying those activities with no judgement.”
Mr Brown said Lilly also helped the children test their new ideas and the gentle giant worked at a lemonade stand the children designed earlier in the week.
“Having a therapy dog becomes such a core feature to what your centre is, we have families coming in earlier to engage with Lilly and she becomes that connection for them to the centre.”
Mr Brown said Lilly also supports the staff when they are feeling anxious or overwhelmed.
“A therapy dog hold the same certificate as the person who is handling her, she works therapeutically. Lilly is able to offer animal assisted education which is quite special,” he said.
“She is something really special.”
Hearing Dogs Service
As the economic realities of Covid-19 continue to bite, Taranaki charities are cutting back, but also getting creative in a bid to stay solvent.
One that is thinking outside the box is Hearing Dogs, based in New Plymouth, which is setting up a doggy day care service.
Clare McLaughlin, who has been general manager of Hearing Dogs for 17 years, said from July 8 the day care will run weekly from its Hydro Rd base, and the money raised will be pumped right back into training canines to assist deaf people.
“It’s a way for us to make regular money.”
McLaughlin said during the nationwide lockdown, fundraising events had to be canned.
While it continued to receive donations, and the odd bequest, it could not count solely on these to keep financially afloat.
McLaughlin said they needed to create a sustainable stream of funding, which the doggy day care service will be if it proved popular.
Uncertainty remained regarding the regular sponsorship the service received in the past, she said.
“We have been really worried that will dry up.”
McLaughlin said it was very important to secure the future of the Hearing Dogs service, as the canines they trained changed the lives of the people they were paired with.
“There have been so many amazing things come out of this.”
The global pandemic, and the measures taken to stop its spread, impacted on fundraising drives across the country, meaning charities lost sources of much-needed cash.
With the economy also set to take major hits in the future, and unemployment expected to rise, people who might normally give to their favoured charities may not be in a position to do so for a while.
For Hospice Taranaki chief executive Paul Lamb, offsetting the loss of about $700,000 in income after it had to shut its retail stores and stop community fundraising events during lockdown was the most pressing concern.
In response, he said the organisation suspended, or stopped, any planned expenditure which did not impact on core services.
“The most challenging year in our financial history will be the one ahead, starting 1 July,” Lamb said.
Retails shops were still operating on reduced hours, as the organisation rebuilt volunteer numbers, and a cap had also been placed on staffing levels.
“The year ahead will be one of planning to sustain our existing services in as many innovative ways as we can while managing our expenditure as tightly as we can.”
This meant no new services or business activities, as everything will be considered in terms of affordability, Lamb said.
He also believed fundraising would be “very challenging” as there was so much uncertainty regarding the country’s economic future.
Pets Allowed At Park
Pets are now allowed at Sandquist Family Park in the spectator areas as long as their owners take responsibility for them.
During the Cambridge City Council meeting June 15, Community Development Specialist Carri Levitski explained pets are not currently allowed on the athletic fields or in the Sandquist Family Park Softball Complex, located in Cambridge Township, as originally requested by the softball association. However, for the past couple of years, staff has received a lot of feedback regarding allowing pets at the park.
Levitski said in order to allow pets at Sandquist Family Park the council will need to amend ordinance 711 that regulates city parks and park lands.
“Pets are considered part of the family, and when going to watch an athletic event, many times families would like the option to bring their ‘furry’ family member along,” Levitski said. “There have been reservations about this in the past due to nuisance issues, barking, aggression, animal litter and so on.”
Levitski explained the city did receive a formal request from the softball association to let pets into the spectator areas at Sandquist Family Park. The request was brought to the June 9 Parks, Trails and Recreation Commission who voted unanimously in support of the ordinance amendment.
Levitski said the city had two basic animal litter stations on hand that will be installed at Sandquist Park, one in the baseball area and one in the softball area. She said if the council wishes to purchase more animal litter stations, the cost of a basic station with just bags is $150, and the cost of an upgraded litter station that has the bags and a deposit station is $250.
“As of right now we are going to try it with the minimum ones that we do have because there are garbage receptacles at our other park locations. We haven’t had a whole lot of issues in the other park areas,” Levitski said. “Luckily, we have very responsible pet owners in Cambridge, but it will be monitored going forward a little bit closer to see if there is a need for additional receptacles in the future.”
Levitski explained eight signs indicating pets are allowed within certain areas of Sandquist Park will be placed within different locations of the park at a cost of $30 per sign.
When asked by Council Member Bob Shogren, Levitski indicated that currently pets are allowed in all city parks, just not on any athletic fields, and not allowed anywhere within Sandquist Family Park.
Cambridge City Administrator Lynda Woulfe said a dog bite over a decade ago was the reason pets were banned at Sandquist Family Park.
“There was specific rules when we did Sandquist Park that said no animals because we did have a problem with a dog bite at the park when it was behind Target,” Woulfe said. “So at that point, then they banned dogs out at Sandquist Family Park. Now it’s been 10, 12 years, since we permitted dogs out there, but that’s the reason why council has specifically has said no more dogs at Sandquist Family Park.”
Following discussion, the council approved amending ordinance 711 and the purchase of the signage for Sandquist Family Park.
According to the ordinance, pets need to be on a leash and are only allowed in the spectator areas of athletic complexes and not on any fields unless they are a service animal. All animals that show aggression or are disruptive must immediately leave the park they are currently using. Pets are allowed off of the leash only in those areas designated by the city as an animal or dog park.
Community Development Director Marcia Westover approached the council to amend ordinance 712 that regulates land use in the business districts.
Westover explained staff has been working with a developer on a gas station/convenience store/car wash site on the east side of the city in the B-2 Highway Business District. Currently city code requires an interim use permit for convenience stores and car washes.
Westover said in talking with the developer an interim use permit is unrealistic for their multimillion-dollar investment, as they cannot invest if there is no guarantee they will be able to keep their business. Westover said an interim use permit is temporary and has an end date. The developer would need to keep resubmitting extension requests for the interim use permit, and if the city finds the use incompatible with the area, the city can exercise its authority and not extend the interim use permit.
Westover said the B-2 Highway Business District is intended to provide space for auto-oriented uses and service businesses that are located in close proximity to major thoroughfares or highways. Convenience stores and car washes are important for auto-oriented uses. Perhaps requiring an interim use permit is unrealistic, since the city intends to have these uses in the B-2 zoning district.
Westover said the Planning Commission discussed the two options presented to them: Allow convenience stores and car washes “by right,” listing them as a permitted use, or allow convenience stores and car washes with a conditional use permit. Westover said by a 5-2 vote, the Planning Commission voted to allow automobile convenience stores and automobile car washes “by right,” listing them as a permitted use in the B-2 zoning district.
Following discussion, the council made a motion to follow the recommendation of the Planning Commission and amend ordinance 712 to allow automobile convenience stores and automobile car washes “by right” in the B-2 zoning district.
Giving Dogs New Homes
Dogs Trust has revealed thousands of new dog owners have been given dogs new homes during lockdown thanks to its adoption service.
New data from the charity’s national contact centre shows that in the period between 23 March and 22 June, 2020, its dedicated post adoption support team has made almost 8,500 outbound calls to 2,028 new adopters.
Dogs Trust is the UK’s largest dog welfare charity and the contact centre handles calls for its 20 UK-based rehoming centres, which care for more than 15,000 rescue dogs every year.
The post adoption initiative, which launched in April 2018, is designed to support new owners in the crucial days and weeks after an adoption. With more people working from home during the pandemic, the service has never been so vital in helping dogs adjust to their new surroundings.
This year, these vital roles are being supported by funding raised by players of People’s Postcode Lottery.
Contact Centre Manager, Paul Roelake, said: “During these difficult times, we have had to adapt all aspects of our rehoming processes to continue to deliver the level of support we pride ourselves on to the dog loving public.
“We would like to thank the players of People’s Postcode Lottery for continuing to help us find forever homes for our dogs, where they can stay for life, not just for lockdown.”
Dogs Trust rehoming centres are still closed to walk-in members of the public, but the charity is now rehoming dogs through its new “handover at home” and appointments process.
If you have space in your heart to give a dog a new home, now and after lockdown, visit the Dogs Trust website to see who is up for adoption.
Dog Grooming Service
We Love Pets already offers dog walking and pet care services for thousands of customers all over the UK.
The new salon at 3 White Horse Close, Trowbridge, opened with a socially-distanced ribbon cutting event at 12 noon to mark the occasion.
During uncertain times for business, the launch of a new venture might feel risky, but for Trowbridge branch owner, Jo Mumford, and We Love Pets company directors Jo and Ryan White, the timing couldn’t be better.
Jo White, who founded We Love Pets in 2007 and offers franchises, said: “We’ve been thinking about expanding into the dog grooming market for a while.
“We Love Pets came through the last recession, so we know what it takes to survive these tough economic times.
“We are expecting huge demand for our dog grooming service coming out of lockdown, particularly as our Trowbridge customers return to work and can have their dog walked and groomed hassle free by people their dog already knows and trusts. It’s the perfect package for busy dog owners.”
Getting the business ready for the opening has been a family affair with Jo’s husband Mark using his skills as a qualified electrician to convert the back garden into a purpose-built salon with all the latest equipment.
Jo’s niece Cara Mumford, 27, a former hairdresser, has gained a City & Guilds Level 3 qualification to re-train as a professional dog groomer.
Cara’s love of dogs helped branch owner Jo Mumford, 40, realise her dream of owning a dog grooming salon, as she explained: “It definitely helps that my niece already has hairdressing skills.
“When we asked if she would be interested in a change of direction to work with us as a dog groomer, as a massive dog lover she jumped at the chance.
“We knew it would be a dream combination of her creative and caring manner with our successful and established pet care business in the area.”
The salon offers a wide range of services for dogs of any breed, size, and coat. Pampered pooches can indulge in a Honey and Oatmeal Massage, Facial or Fresh Breath treatments.
For those in need of a general tidy up, a full groom or bath and fluff dry services are just the job.
Puppies can make their first grooming experience a positive one with the expertly gentle puppy package or for dogs who use We Love Pets for regular walks, an exclusive Very Important Pooch service is available where dogs can enjoy a walk, full groom, facial, pawdicure, fresh breath treatment, personalised treats and photos of their special day to take home.
Like all businesses impacted by the Coronavirus pandemic, We Love Pets has had to adapt to adhere to social distancing guidelines.
With a strict hygiene policy and the appropriate PPE in place, the dog grooming salon is able to service dogs with minimal risk.
Dogs are handed over outside and We Love Pets’ own leads and collars are put on for use during the treatments.
Mrs Mumford said: “We have clear policies for our staff to ensure risks are minimised and have PPE for as long as it’s needed.
“We already have a loyal customer base and we know they will support us and advocate that our team are professional and fantastic at their jobs.
“Myself and my husband are problem solvers and are incredibly determined, so if we want to achieve something, then we will.
“Grooming is also essential to a dog’s welfare, so it is important that these services continue at this time, albeit more safely.”
For customers with limited time or who would rather not make the trip, We Love Pets offers a pick up and drop off service for a small fee. Customers can book online at https://welovepets.care/dog-grooming/ or by emailing trowbridge@welovepets.email or calling 07923 666983 for a consultation.
The salon is open Monday, Thursday and Friday, 8.30am to 5.30pm and will be increasing business hours to Monday to Friday and alternate Saturdays 8.30am to 5.30pm in the near future.
We Love Pets also offers dog walking, cat sitting, dog boarding, pet sitting, puppy care and house sitting services to local pet owners.
Centre County Shop
A new pet-centric business on Benner Pike provides a one-stop shop for pet owners’ grooming and shopping needs.
Owner and Bellefonte resident Jamie Smith said The Pet Pub, which opened for grooming in early May and for retail shopping after Memorial Day, has been a longtime dream, years in the making.
“I’ve always been in business management my entire career, so in my mind, I was thinking, this is a good business concept … a one-stop shop for animal needs — somewhere you can come in and get your animal groomed, get their license, bathe them yourself …”
Smith took advantage of local entrepreneur resources to get started, including Pennsylvania Girl Gang, a networking group for local, women business owners; the Penn State Small Business Development Center; and Happy Valley LaunchBox. Having resources like these on her side, Smith said, helped her approach opening a new business confidently, alleviating some of her fears around the potentially financially risky proposition.
After two years of market research, planning and meeting with not only local supporters, but also lawyers and banks, Smith was ready to open The Pet Pub’s doors.
Opening during the coronavirus pandemic, she said, provided an easy and slower start to the business, and she’s found customers are supportive and understanding when it comes to the unique challenges COVID-19 precautions create for business owners.
“Right now, we still have some items we’re waiting to get in, just because the areas they’re coming from, either the vendor or distributor isn’t able to travel yet, or stuff is stuck because they have a lot of people working at home, so they don’t have people to make or produce the items. Our store is probably 85 percent stocked,” she said. “But people come in and are understanding if they’re looking for something and we don’t have it.”
The retail portion of the business provides products for dogs, cats and small animals. The store’s interior is what Smith describes as “primitive.”
“When you come into my store, you get a very home-y, old general store-type feel,” she said. “And I’m trying to push customer service. I feel like, over the years, customer service hasn’t been a focal point for some businesses. They’re more worried about numbers or revenue. Honestly, I want the pet and the owner to have the best experience possible, so they feel when they come in that they get the utmost in customer service …”
There are two groomers on staff, offering services to dogs and cats every day except Sunday.
“They’re very caring, understanding and patient with the animals (and) that’s exactly what I’m looking for here. When people drop their pets off, we’re not rushing or trying to get as many dogs or cats in as possible. We’re here to help them and make sure the pets feel comfortable and they have a good experience,” Smith said.
A self-bathing room is also available, outfitted with aprons, a grooming tub, grooming dryer and towels. Cost to use the self-bathing room is $15 and customers can use their own pet products or buy some in-store. There’s no time limit on how long a customer can use the self-bathing room and customers are asked to call ahead before bringing in their pet.
Smith hopes to expand her offerings in the next few months with dog and cat adoption opportunities, including adoption fairs on Sundays.
“We’re going to be working with local organizations that don’t have their own facilities, where they mostly do foster-to-adopt, so we can get as much exposure for animals as possible and try to reduce the amount of adoptable pets in the area,” she said.
Since opening, The Pet Pub has created a niche for itself as the only locally owned retailer that offers both grooming and shopping in one spot. However, while the convenience is appreciated, Smith said it’s the service and the customer experience that really puts The Pet Pub in a league of its own.
“I love seeing the people come in and being happy with the services we provide. When a dog walks out, they almost prance, because they feel so much better,” she said.
Therapy Dogs And Handlers
These dogs are preparing for service at schools, in crisis situations, and to even provide comfort to the elderly.
The Corpus Christi International Airport (CCIA) provided a training ground for dogs and their handlers on Saturday morning.
“These dogs are preparing for service at schools, in crisis situations, even to provide comfort to the elderly. The experience they receive at the airport will help prepare them if they are ever needed in these types of settings,” stated officials.
The training was conducted by a non-profit organization called Go Team Therapy, Crisis, and Airport Dogs, Inc.
“The trainer will be on hand to guide the dogs and handlers through a variety of real-world situations inside the terminal from common noises and crowds to the TSA Security Checkpoint,” added officials.
The training took place inside the CCIA Terminal on Saturday, June 27, beginning at 10:30 a.m.
Dog Bite Awareness
More than 5000 postal workers were attacked by dogs in 2019. Here in South Dakota, 17 postal workers experienced dog attacks.
The United States Postal Service provides technology that helps reduce potential dog attacks such as handheld scanners and service alerts. They also highlight safety measures to help protect its employees and offers tips to pet owners as part of the Postal Service’s National Dog Bite Awareness Week. This year, it ran Sunday, June 14, through Saturday, June 20.
“I haven’t been bite but I’ve been attacked. I’ve had a shirt ripped, a satchel that’s torn. This is a newer one. And it was just the one time currently, I have had two or three dogs come out of the house but then don’t actually come at me they just bark,” said Chris Sabrowski, postal carrier.
Sabrowski says to help keep postal carriers safe, make sure to keep your gates closed and dogs on leashes if outside.
