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Covering Southeastern, Mass and Cape Cod Published by Clipper Press E-MAIL: editor@petgazette.net Advertising: 781-934-2811 x23 or ads@petgazette.net
Volume 13 No. 2 “Dogs have owners, cats have staff.” ~ Anonymous February 2010

NEW NAME, NEW LOCATION

1014 Pearl Street, Brockton, MA
www.jmpetresort.com • Phone:508.588.5661
SEE OUR ADS IN THE DIRECTORY!
Founded and Houses The Brockton Blue Dog Shelter
www.bluedogshelter.com
 This Month’s Cover
T
his month’s cover was
painted by painter Gordon
Sigler specializes in por-
traits of pets. Trained at the Rhode
Island School of Design and the Mu-
seum School of Fine Arts, Gordon
now paints professionally in Hamil-
ton, Massachusetts.

516 Washington Street

Hanover, MA 02339
Sunday Appointment
Hours Available!
Full surgical and
diagnostic services,
including ultrasound
and specialty services
by our Board Certified
Cardiologist and Internist
.. . . . . . . . . . . .
“A Lifetime of Veterinary
Care”
correction
The front page credits were inadvertently left out
of last month’s paper. The Pet Gazette apologizes
for the error.
Top Left to right:
“Mona and Murray”
by John White
“Best in Show”
by Donna Ingemanson
“Untitled”
by Kayo Motomiya-Walsh
“Repose” by Dan Evans
“Arlo” by Ivy Francis
“Thinking Dog” by Anna Dibble
“Teddy” by Jill Flynne All work copyrighted by the artists

The Pet Gazette

The Pet Gazette is published by Clipper Press, a family-owned company
based on the South Shore since 1950.The Pet Gazette covers all of
Southeastern, Massachusetts and Cape Cod.
The Pet Gazette is a registered trademark.
Pet Gazette Staff
HOURS OF Production & Layout: Lindsey Gardner; Advertising: Robin Nudd
OPERATION Publisher: Josh Cutler; Contributors: Becca Manning, Justin Graeber, George Sommers,
URGENT CARE/EMERGENCY Nicole Birkholzer, Gerald F. Williamson, Joe Breault, Diane Donovan, Rick Larsen
Monday thru Sunday 8AM-10PM DELIVERY ADDRESS: 11 So. Station Street, Duxbury
MAILING ADDRESS: Pet Gazette, PO Box 1656, Duxbury, MA 02331
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WALK-INS WELCOME
Call 781/826-2306
or 781/749-4551
Fax 781/829-9270
24 HOUR NURSING CARE
............

STAFF
VETERINARIANS
Charlie Patterson, DVM
Brad Moses, DVM, DACVIM
(Cardiology)
Mary Reynolds-Callahan, DVM
Pamela Martin, DVM
Laura Fong, DVM
Joseph Martinez, DVM
Alice Hadden, DVM, DACVIM
(Internal Medicine)
Megan Hwang, DVM
Amina Johnson, DVM
Mary Clark, VMD ————
Klaus Earl Loft, DVM Hours by
(Residency trained in Dermatology) appointment:
Maria Tehrany, DVM Mon 11 AM to 7 PM
............ Tues 11 AM to 7 PM
www.VCARoberts.com Weds Closed
Thurs 9 AM to 8 PM
VCA ROBERTS IS LOCATED
Fri 9 AM to 5 PM
Sat 9 AM to 1 PM
2.5 MILES SOUTH OF THE
HANOVER MALL ON RTE. 53
TAKE EXIT 13 OFF RTE. 3 ————
2
Pet Gazette February 2010
 Top Cat of the Month
T J
his is Ranger. He is
10 months old right
now and he is an all
black Bombay. He was born
on Feb. 1, 2009. We have had
him since he was 12 weeks
old. But only one week after
we got him everything went
south.
I was home alone and
Ranger was on my lap watch-
ing my favorite television
show. There was a loud noise
and he jumped off my lap. I
thought nothing of it until he
ran under the couch and the
couch started moving and mak-
ing ticking noises. I knew it
wasn’t good. I moved the side
table and pulled him out. He
was foaming at the mouth and
having a seizure. I called my
mom immediately and broke
into tears thinking I was go-
ing to lose another one of my
beloved animals. She told me
that she was going to be right
home. When she got home
just minutes later, he was fine
Humane Society reaching out
“Ranger”
and she didn’t completely be-
lieve me.
One week later it hap-
pened again. We brought him
to the emergency vet and they
said some kittens suffer with
seizures.
He continued to have his
seizures, so that’s when we
brought him to a special vet.
($900 later) Ranger is on anti-
seizure medication (liquid) he
takes twice a day (it’s cherry
flavored). He is good at taking
it and it seems like he knows
it’s helping him. He is my Top
Cat of the month.
Michelle Demers
Bourne
1st Annual
Hearts and Paws
oin the Taunton Animal Shelter for their 1st An-
nual Hearts and Paws from Jan. 14 through Feb.
14. Loving hearts and paws join together to make
Valentine’s Day a little happier for everyone. Share some
love with a pet currently awaiting a new home and family
at the Taunton Animal Shelter. Please visit the shelter and/or
“visit” on line at  www.tauntonshelter.petfinder.com to see
the many pets who are waiting for their “special someone”.
Make a donation in honor of a particular pet at the shel-
ter and/or deliver/send a special toy/treat/gift  for the pet of
your choice.  (This can also be done as a special “gift” for
someone for Valentine’s Day and/or in memory of someone!
If you do decide to do this, please allow enough time for
your request to be processed and  sent in the mail to you,
in order to receive in time for Valentine’s Day). Forms will
be available at the Taunton Shelter, requested via e-mail (
paws4blue@aol.com), Raynham Town Hall, Taunton City
Hall, Roma’s Hair Salon, Ventura Grain, Leahy’s Liquors,
or through shelter personnel. (Your name and the name of
the pet of your choice will be noted on the Taunton Shelter
website and also at the shelter itself. In addition, you will
receive a special photo of the pet you have chosen to spon-
sor).
Pleasant Mountain Pet Cemetery
& Cremation Services
On Rt 3 76 Liberty St Plymouth, MA 02360

to help animals in Haiti

Where Heartfelt Responsibility is Practiced.

T
Visit our website at www.petrestofplymouth.com

he American Hu-
mane Association
has joined forces
with the Animal Relief Co-
UPATYOURHOMEORVET
alition for Haiti
(ARCH), an inter-
national group of
professional animal
welfare organiza-
tions committed to
aiding animals in the
earthquake-stricken
region. The group is
preparing a mobile
animal clinic and
by the disaster, as they move
into temporary camps. Plans
include providing food and
clean water, as well as vac-
other animals in disasters can
donate at americanhumane. s0RIVATECREMATIONSVERYREASONABLYPRICED
org/aes-donate. American Hu- 5RNINCLUDED
mane will be actively updating s3AMEORNEXTDAYPICK
its Web site and
s#ERTIFIEDCREMAINSRETURNEDINFOURDAYS
social networks to
inform people on s6IEWCREMATIONSOPENDOORPOLICY
the status of the ONOURFACILITIESEXCLUSIVEWITHUS
coalition and how s0RIVATEBURIALSONBEAUTIFULLYKEPTGROUNDS
they can help. Find
them on Twitter at s2EASONABLYPRICEDAND
twitter.com/ameri- NOYEARLYMAINTENANCEFEES
canhumane and on s9OUMAYINSISTONWHEREYOURPETS
Facebook at face- AFTERCAREISPERFORMED
book.com/ameri-
staff to perform out-
reach work in Haiti,
with training provided
by ARCH. The coalition also
will be assessing and assist-
ing with the needs of animals
belonging to people displaced
February 2010
cinating companion animals
against rabies.
People who want to sup-
port these vital efforts and help
canhumane. s/VERYEARSOFCOMPASSIONDIGNITYANDSERVICE
The Animal
Relief Coalition for Call for info 1-800-852-0014 or 508-746-5550
Haiti was created by the World
Society for the Protection of
Animals and the International
Fund for Animal Welfare. HEALTHY VETERINARY
ALTERNATIVES
Acupuncture and other natural & holistic
treatments to promote healing,
wellness and longevity
Dogs Serving the
Cats South Shore
& Horses and Cape
Cod
Dr. Mark E. Russo, V.M.D.
KINGSTON ANIMAL HOSPITAL, INC.
192 Main St. Kingston, MA 02364
781-585-6525
www.healthyveterinaryalternatives.com
Pet Gazette 3

You’ve Always Wanted to Do More.
Learn how you can protect cats at alleycat.org.
W W W. A L L E Y C AT. O R G
Education Advocacy
ANGEL VIEW PET CEMETERY & CREMATORY
Because We Care, We Share In Your Compassion, Love & Grief
SERVICES:
PRIVATE CREMATION, URN INCLUDED
GROUP CREMATION
FORMAL BURIAL ON OUR BEAUTIFULLY LANDSCAPED GROUNDS
CEREMONIES & VIEWINGS AVAILABLE
24 HOUR PICK UP AT YOUR HOME OR VETERINARIAN'S OFFICE
EQUINE SERVICES:
PRIVATE CREMATION, GROUP CREMATION
& COUNTRY BURIAL (INTACT)
TRANSPORTATION OF YOUR HORSE OR PONY TO OUR FACILITY
OR ON-SITE EUTHANASIA BY YOUR VETERINARIAN
URNS, CASKETS & MARKERS
~OVER 25 YEARS OF DEDICATED SERVICE~
471 WAREHAM STREET, MIDDLEBORO, MA 02346
WWW.ANGELVIEW.COM
508-947-4103 OR 800-287-0066
AVAILABLE 24 HOURS A DAY - 7 DAYS A WEEK
KINGSTON ANIMAL HOSPITAL, INC.
Pe t p o u r r i
Look, Ma — no hands
A
new hands-free leash system prom-
ises to make pet owners the leader
of their pack, whether it in-
cludes one, two or more dogs. Unlike
traditional hands-free leashes, which
attach at the waist, the ergonomical-
ly designed Alpha Pac allows the
walker to safely and conveniently
walk one to two dogs. The
Action Alpha Pac is worn over the
shoulders and back and uses
an individual’s core strength
to assume the position of alpha
dog or pack leader, keeping the
dogs right where they belong,
at the side. The Pac is made of
durable fabric with nylon webbing
straps and reflective strips for night-
time safety, and it is ideal for dog
owners who love to be outside with
their K-9 companions. Quick-release
Sponsor a shelter pet for
Valentine’s Day
T
he Taunton Ani-
mal Shelter will
host its inaugural
Hearts and Paws event from
Jan. 14-Feb. 14 and invite
area residents to share some
love with a pet awaiting a
new home and family. Visit
the shelter or visit online
at tauntonshelter.petfinder.
com to see the many pets that
are waiting for their special
someone. Make a donation
in honor of a particular pet
at the shelter or deliver send
a special toy, treat or gift for
the pet of your choice. (This
can also be done as a special “gift” for some-
Send items for the
Petpourri page to
editor@petgazette.net
The Deadline is
the 12th of each month.
hardware allows the walker to unclip the dogs
and use the system as a traditional leash. Each
leash is adjustable to meet the needs of
both the dog and walker. For those who
have more than two dogs, the Alpha
Pac offers a double leash attachment
that when connected to each side
of the base can hold up to
four dogs. The Alpha Pac
Complete, which sells for
$39.95, includes the base,
one 27-inch adjustable leash
one 42-inch adjustable leash
and a single leash adapter
to convert from two dogs
to one. Additional leash-
es are available for
$7-$15 to expand the
use of the Pac. Find it
at thealphapac.com.
enough time for your request
to be processed and sent in the
mail, in order to receive in time
for Valentine’s Day. Forms
will be available at the Taun-
ton Shelter or can be requested
via e-mail paws4blue@aol.
com. They also are available
at Raynham Town Hall, Taun-
ton City Hall, Roma’s Hair
Salon, Ventura Grain, Leahy’s
Liquors, or through shelter
personnel. (Your name and the
name of the pet of your choice
will be noted on the Taunton
Shelter Web site and also at the
shelter itself. In addition, you
will receive a special photo of the pet you have
-AIN3TREETs+INGSTON-! one for Valentine’s Day and/or in memory of chosen to sponsor.)
someone.) If you do decide to do this, allow
781-585-6525
Spice up feeding time with variety
W
hen it comes to dog food, variety any particular ingredient, according to Michael
is the spice of life, say makers Farmer, co-president of Rotations Pet Food.
of the new Rotations Pet Food. Each box contains three separate re-sealable
With many people thinking of their pets like bags of food, each with a unique meat-first
their children, it seems only right that if they recipe with no by-products, fillers or artificial
wouldn’t feed their children ingredients. While all of the three recipes in
Extended Hospital Hours the same food day in and each box contain different ingredients for
day out, they shouldn’t nutritional balance, they are for-
Mon - Thurs 7 am - 9 pm do so to their pets. Ro- mulated with even levels
Friday 7 am - 6 pm tations Pet Food is the of the key food
Saturday 7 am - 5 pm first and only dog food groups for safe
designed specifically rotation without
2AYMOND2USSO$6- for rotational feeding. digestive prob-
-ARK%2USSO6-$!#6)- Three distinctly differ- lems. Rotations
0ATRICIA+(ESS6-$ ent formulas in one box offers unique
3HARON$AVIS$6- provide a broader com- bination for- mulas for pup-
%MILY3#LAIR$6-$!"60 of nutritional elements and a steady rotation of py, adult and senior life
!GATA$E-ARCO$6- even levels of proteins, fibers, fruits, carbohy- stages. Rota- tions Pet Food
-ICHELLE2UDIN$6- drates, fats and essential vitamins that comple-
ment each other as a complete, safe rotating pet
A half century of hospitality and caring for food system. The bottom line: A simple, safe
and convenient way to ensure a pet will never
the pets of the South Shore be bored, undernourished or over exposed to
4
Pet Gazette
is available at various online and retail
stores and sells in six-, 12- and 24-pound bags
for between $20 and $56.
Find a nearby store or learn more about
their products at rotationspetfood.com.
February 2010
 Line of collars, leashes offers
#HIROPRACTIC#ARE
$R$EBRA-4RANBERG

I
taste of the tropical
n the midst of a New England winter, has expanded its fetch toys, adding
it’s not unusual for people to dream the new chubby StarTurtle &OR9OUR,ARGE3MALL
of warmer weather and tropical (pictured). Like their other AND%XOTIC0ETS
escapes. Though it’s not exactly a toys, the StarTurtle is a !&RONT3TREET3UITE
dream vacation, the tropical feel
of Island Dog Gear’s new line

of products could tide you
over until the temperatures
rise again. Island Dog Gear of-
fers a range of Hawaiian-themed
collars, leashes, toys and acces-
sories, now available for dogs of all
size — from teacup Chihuahuas to Great Danes
and everything in between. The company also
A holistic approach to pet care
P
revention has always been the best
guarantee for long-term wellness, and
this is as true when it comes to man-
aging pets’ stress as it is for managing our own.
“The New Holistic Way for Dogs & Cats,” pub-
lished by Ten Speed Press in December, makes
a convincing plea for caregivers to stress-proof
their pet’s home life, environment and general

sWWWCAPECODKCORG
care. “The New Holistic Way for Dogs & Cats”
describes the physiological affects of nega-
tive stress and how to manage it. Authors Paul
McCutcheon, DVM and Susan Weinstein en-
courage an integrative approach to veterinary
care, one that goes beyond treating superficial
symptoms to achieve overall wellness for the
animal. Instead of simply treating ear mites,
Home on the (free) range
F
or health-conscious
owners who want
the best for their
little doggies, Free Range Dog
Chews presents its new Grass-
Fed Angus Dog Treats line.
These nutritious treats come
from beef cattle humanely
raised in the pastures of Argentina where they
dine on an all-natural grass diet. Beef and only
beef is the single ingredient in the Angus line.
The grass-fed Argentina beef in these treats
is higher in omega-3 fatty acids and beta-car-
otene yet lower in fat, and because they are
Make it personal
Y
ou can love your pet and
not love everything
about him — in-
cluding the havoc he can
wreak on furniture. Sure
Fit’s new pet couch cover
provides a way to protect fur-
niture upholstery while mak-
ing it clear your pet is still an
important part of your life, by
monogramming his name onto the cover. The
cover can help protect couches, chairs and beds
in the house or can be used in transit in the car,
Carnivore kisses for Valentine’s Day
S
tella & Chewy’s has kisses of all fla-
vors to give dogs what they crave.
Now one more enticing flavor
has been added to the Carnivore Kisses
line, and it’s perfectly pink for Valen-
tine’s Day. Stella & Chewy’s new Wild
Alaskan Salmon Carnivore Kisses of-
fers a bite-sized Valentine’s Day gift
that may have your dog giving you
kisses of her own.Stella & Chewy’s
produces all-natural foods and treats
that are nutritious and tasty for dogs
and cats. The newest product, 100 per-
cent Wild Alaskan Salmon Carnivore
Kisses, is an addition to the company’s
line of other Carnivore Kisses, including beef,
bison, chicken, and duck. The Wild Alaskan
Salmon Carnivore Kisses are comprised of one
February 2010
durable, squeaky chew 3CITUATE-! 6ISITOURWEBSITEFORDETAILEDDESCRIPTIONS
OFALLOUR0ET(EALTHSERVICES
toy that comes in bright,  
colorful patterns. All Is- $R4RANBERGISACERTIlEDMEMBEROFTHE
WWWDRTRANBERGCOM
!MERICAN6ETERINARIAN#HIROPRACTIC
land Dog items range !SSOCIATION
from $10.99-$12.99
each and are avail-
able online at islanddoggear.com 3ERVINGTHE3OUTH3HORE3INCE
or at specialty retailers and boutiques (e-mail
info@islanddoggear.com or call 408-416-3777
to find out where). CAPE COD KENNEL CLUB, INC.
DOG TRAINING CLASSES
a holistic approach is to Puppy Kindergarten • Beginner Obedience
ask why the dog has ear Advanced Obedience • Show Handling
mites and to consider the
fact that chronic parasitic Agility Training: Beginner to Advanced
conditions can be symp-
tomatic of a weakened
For more information, please call:
immune system. The au-
thors review many case 
profiles where looking Cape Cod Kennel Club Inc. established 1947
beyond the immediate,
superficial condition led
to a treatment of a differ-
ent sort — resulting in a much happier animal
and in a higher quality of life overall. “The
New Holistic Way for Dogs & Cats” retails for
$18.99. Find it at local bookstores or online.
100 percent natural, they
are unique in size and
shape. The Angus line of-
fers odor-free bully sticks,
braided steer sticks, lung,
Paddywack, cow tails,
tripe springs and twists
and beef trachea. All treats
are made without hormones, antibiotics, animal
byproducts, steroids or preservatives. Prices
range depending on product and quality. Learn
more or find a nearby store at the Web site, fre-
erangedogchews.com.
at a hotel or elsewhere. Made
from quilted soft suede and
machine-washable,
the pet cover is avail-
able in three sizes —
couch, chair and love- 525 South Street
seat — in chocolate and
Walpole, MA 02081
taupe. Monogramming
is available in two text Phone (508) 668-5454
styles: Block and Script, Fax (508) 850-9809
with up to 15 characters. Sure Fit cov- www.TuftsVets.org
ers sell for $29.99-$49.99. Find them online at VETERINARY EMERGENCY
surefit.com. TREATMENT & SPECIALTIES
We Now Proudly Offer the Following new Services:
ingredient — salmon — right from the ocean. s,ASER%NDOSCOPIC#YCLOPHOTOCOAGULATIONFOR'LAUCOMA
There are no added grains, fillers, hormones s$ENTISTRY
or antibiotics, artificial preserva- - 24 hour Emergency Service
tives, colorings, sugars or salt. - Board certified specialties
The treats, made with diced 100 • Anesthesiology - Emily McCobb, DVM, MS, DACVA
percent raw salmon, are freeze-
• Emergency & Critical Care - April Paul, DVM, DACVECC
dried to lock in the nutrition and
Tara Hammond DVM, DACVECC, 6 ECC Residents
flavor. Through the freeze-drying
• Internal Medicine - Johanna Cooper, DVM, DACVIM
process, the moisture is removed
from the raw meat without cook- • Ophthalmology - Federica Maggio, DVM, DACVO
ing, thus the nutritional value of • Radiology - Ryan King, DVM, DACVR
the raw meat is retained. Look for • Surgery - Nicole Amato, DVM, DACVS
Wild Alaskan Salmon Carnivore • Dentistry - Jean Joo, DVM
Kisses Treats, at $9.99-$10.99 per • Dermatologist - Dr. Christine Prost, DVM, DECVD
package, at a retail store near you.
Our goal is to provide the best medical care combine with outstanding client service.
stellaandchewys.com or call 888-477-8977 for
Our qualified and compassionate staff is dedicated to serving the veterinary
more information or to find out about the com- community.
pany’s full line of products.
Pet Gazette 5
By Gerald F. Williamson Esq.
Handling a canine “A&B” look.

Q
Pet Gazette Columnist A: There is a huge body
: My male pit of law around the country per-
bull bit a cus- taining to our “best friend”
tomer where he and how he (or she) reacts in
was being boarded at a ken- the presence of other people.
nel. I was not present at the Since we last wrote about this
time. There is no history subject, there seems to have
of dog bites by this pit bull. been a sharp increase in dog
Does this matter? Is there bite incidents in the Common-
any more liability because of wealth. Your question raises
the breed type? Am I liable? a number of issues, some of
Is the owner of the kennel li- which are clear, others some-
able? what foggy. Let’s take a closer
Dr. Rachel Francis Dr. Kelly Temple
Dr. Kimberly Suh
Hospital Hours:
Closed for lunch every day 12-1pm
Monday: 8am-5pm
Tuesday - Thursday: 8am-5pm & 6:30pm-8pm
Friday: 8am-5pm
Saturday: 8am-12pm
Sunday: Closed
303 Wareham Road, Marion
508-748-1203
www.marionanimalhospital.com
A full-service hospital caring for the needs
of your four-legged family members.
In Massachusetts, Chapter
140, Sect. 155 imposes liabil-
ity on the owner or keeper of
a dog for property damage of
personal injury caused by the
pet in the conduct of its “ca-
nine duties”. Notice that we
avoid using the word “negli-
gence” in this situation. There
is a reason: Massachusetts
is one of the 32 states which
embody the so-called law of
“strict liability”. In essence,
this is liability without fault.
Four of our states (Georgia,
Hawaii, New York, and Ten-
nessee) have modified this
toothy statute via the “one-bite
rule”. In effect, this gives the
angry pooch (and his owner)
one free chomp victim without
compensable fault.
In our Commonwealth,
there are (or course) one or
two exceptions to the “strict
liability” situation. If there
was a clear trespass onto the
owner’s property, liability
may not attach. If the vic-
tim was taunting or abusing
the animal, once again, the
attack may be a “Freebie”
for Rover. If the victim
was a minor under the age
of seven, he or she will be
presumed to have been free
of blame as to taunting or
hurting the pet. (This may
be clear where a two-year
old pulls the tail of a 100
pound shepherd; less clear
where a six year old repeat-
edly steps on the paws of a
twenty pound Dachsund.)
While there always brings
whines of “I told you so!!” in
the case of a pit bull attack,
scores of pit bull owners swear
Paws & the law
that their little furry critter is as
docile as the proverbial lamb.
Pit bulls, at this writing, do not
seem to have caused a modi-
fication of the primary statute
(above) which proscribes li-
ability after an attack on pets
or humans.
Be aware, of course, that
the rules of negligence do not
simply get tossed out with the
dog’s bath water. In every ju-
risdiction in America, there is
some type of provision that
requires all of us to use “due
care” in our dealings with oth-
ers. Did the owner violate a
local ordinance such as a leash
law? Was that violation caus-
ally connected to the attack on
someone or his property? Was
there any type of contributory
negligence involved?
Section 137, et seq., of
Chapter 140 do contain vari-
ous regulations pertaining to
the keepng of dogs. There
are even local board of se-
lectmen for keeping noisy
or dangerous dogs. The
“keeper” of a dog seems to
explicitly include a kennel
operator, personal or cor-
porate who “harbors” or
“possesses” a dog. There-
fore, the operative statute
(Sect. 155) should render
the kennel owner liable
for “Chompy’s” first bite.
You may also be liable,
since the statute does not
automatically exclude the
owner.
Be careful how you
handle this canine “A &
B” case. One or more insur-
ance policies may be involved.
If your home is not protected
by a homestead, the hapless
victim could put the “bite” on
your real estate!!
SILLY STATUTE OF
THE MONTH:
In California, it is illegal
for mountain lions to mate
within 1500 feet of a tavern,
school, or religous establish-
ment.
Got a question about
animal law? Send your ques-
tions and feedback to Attor-
ney Williamson and you may
see it in a future column. He
can be reached at pawlaw@
etgazette.net or by mail to At-
torney Gerald Williamson, 71
Legion Parkway, Brockton,
MA 02301.

WELLNESS FOR ALL AGES Foreclosure &

• Internal Medicine • General Surgery Debt Relief
MARSHFIELD • Dental Services • Oncology Services
chapter 7 chapter 13 trial work
ANIMAL Jeffrey M. Barrow, D.V.M.
Randolph M. Adams, D.V.M.
Jennifer A. Johnson, D.V.M.
Sarah E. Lafaver, D.V.M. Gerald F. Williamson, Esq.
HOSPITAL www.marshfieldvet.com
71 Legion Parkway
Brockton, MA 02301
Serving South Shore Over 25 Years
(781) 837-5005 490 PLAIN STREET, ROUTE 139
(NEAR HIGH SCHOOL), MARSHFIELD, MA 02050
(508) 588-2284
6
Pet Gazette February 2010
 Frog-O-Spheres:
Brookstone’s Bad Idea
By Linda Huebner, MSPCA
A
Special to the Pet Gazette
s an animal lover,
you probably put a
lot of thought into
adding an animal to your fam-
ily. You may visit your local
animal shelter regularly, surf
Petfinder and other websites,
or talk with people who know
a lot about the needs of spe-
cific breeds of animals. You
probably don’t think of going
to the mall in search of your
next family member –
regardless of species.
U n f o r t u n a t e l y,
that’s just how
some people
get their pets
– while out
shopping, and
on a whim.
Brook-
stone is a
unique store
that sells un-
usual and in-
teresting items; people
often shop there to find
gifts for friends or fam- ily
members who “have every-
thing”. Unfortunately, one of
Brookstone’s current items,
the Frog-O-Sphere, a tiny
colorful aquarium complete
with African dwarf frogs, is
likely to attract mall shoppers
Brookstone is not a pet store. Selling exotic
amphibians like the African dwarf frogs contained
in the Frog-O-Sphere is not appropriate.
“adopted” Frog-O-Spheres
and that they provide detailed
care instructions to their cus-
tomers and staff, even training
one person in each store to be
a Frog-O-Sphere specialist.
It’s true that Brookstone has
an online manual for the Frog-
O-Sphere, but that doesn’t
mean that people will read
it carefully – especially not
before they buy the Frog-
O-Sphere,
when they should
be considering whether
o r not they want to make
the commitment to provide
proper care for the frogs. Peo-
ple seem to buy this item as an
extremely low-maintenance
way to have pets, so it is not
likely that they will follow the
detailed instructions, espe-
that frogs do not naturally eat,
and live in ponds, not aquari-
ums filled with the customer’s
choice of various shades of
brightly and artificially col-
Cassandra Kelley, D.V.M.
ored gravel. Full Service Feline Only Veterinary Hospital
If people become bored or
frustrated and decide that they
no longer want their frogs, they • Preventive Care Programs
may decide to release them to • Senior Wellness
the wild. African dwarf frogs
are non-native animals who • Dental Health
will not fare well if released
in New England, and could • Complete Medical &
have negative impacts on na-
tive wild species and real eco-
Surgical Care
systems (as could the bamboo
plants in their tanks). Many “Special Care For Your Cat”
other ecological problems
have started in just
this way, and na-
508-746-8580
tive populations 80 Sandwich St., (Rte. 3A) Plymouth
have suffered the
consequences.
www.catclinicplymouth.com
If people
do not
have the
time or inclination to
c a r e for animals, then they
should not be encouraged to
buy or adopt them. Selling
this product at Brookstone en-
courages impulse purchases – !(EALTH&OOD3TOREFOR0ETS
something not appropriate for
(and a generally fun place to go for pets and their people)
any animal. If people do want
to have pets, there are many of /FFERING#USTOMER3UPPORT'UIDANCE
them who need good homes
available at the MSPCA’s Ani- Rawdiets & Natural Pet Diets
mal Care & Adoption Centers
and other animal shelters and Vitamin & Herbal Supplements
rescues organizations nation-
wide. It’s even possible that Pet Shampoo
African dwarf frogs in Frog-
O-Spheres will even be sur-
#OLLARSs,EASHESs4OYSs0ET"EDS
looking for an unusual gift or
something to enhance their of-
fice decor.
Brookstone is not a pet
store. Selling exotic amphib-
7ASHINGTON3Ts0EMBROKE
ians like the African dwarf
frogs contained in the Frog-
O-Sphere is not appropriate.
Clearly, problems are expect-
ed, given that Brookstone will
replace the frogs for free with-
in 30 days from the date of
purchase and will sell replace-
ment frogs thereafter. Many
of the customer comments on
Brookstone’s website included
complaints about dead frogs.
Brookstone’s online let-
ter to their customers states
that thousands of people have
Rescue Groups
February 2010
cially the use of spring water
in the tank and the advisory
not to place more than 4 frogs
in each Frog-O-Sphere. In
the online comments, people
even expressed concern that
they’d remember to feed their
frogs – they do not really think
of the frogs as pets, but rather
something interesting to look
at from time to time.
Brookstone touts the edu-
cational value of the Frog-O-
Sphere “ecosystem”, and mar-
kets it to classroom teachers,
but it’s hard to see how this
completely artificial environ-
ment translates to the real
world where frogs eat insects,
not pellets made from things
Forever Home Rescue
New England
TOUGH
BEGINNINGS.
HAPPY
ENDINGS.
We are a 501c3 all-breed rescue group
with a network of foster homes in the
south and in New England. Please
check out our available dogs at
www.foreverhomerescue.org
rendered to animal shelters
when people tire of them.
The Massachusetts Society
for the Prevention of Cruelty
to Animals (MSPCA) is con-
cerned that Brookstone is sell-
ing the Frog-O-Sphere and we
are worried about the implica-
tions for the health and welfare
of the frogs. We have alerted
the members of our Animal
Action Team that Brookstone
is continuing to sell Frog-O-
Spheres despite concerns from
animal protection groups such
as the MSPCA. For more in-
formation, including what you
can do about this, see www.
mspca.org/frog-o-sphere.
Pet Gazette
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7
 By the Breed: The Chinese Shar-Pei
By Diane Donovan different dog for each particu-

G
Pet Gazette Contributor
us here, I am not a
breed you see ev-
ery day, but I have
some unique characteristics in
the dog world that make me
one of the most recognizable
breeds. My wrinkles are the
first distinctive trait that draws
people to me. I was a very
cute, wrinkly puppy, but my
personality is quite different
as I mature. My wrinkles are
mostly limited to my face and
neck now that I am almost full
grown. Our name Shar-Pei
literally means “sand-skin”
lar task. Our size and protec-
tive nature made these jobs
easy for us to perform. We
still retain many skills we used
in those tasks such as herding,
tracking, hunting and especial-
ly guarding, yet we are in the
non-sporting group today be-
cause we have not been bred to
do these tasks for many years.
We were then bred through-
out Hong Kong and Taiwan to
keep an established line from
our original ancestors. We
were introduced to the U.S.
through a Hong Kong kennel
club that launched a success-
ful “Save the

by the breed Shar-Pei”

which translates to “rough,
sandy coat” or “sandpaper–
like coat”. This refers to the
two qualities of my coat- the
roughness and the shortness
that are unique in the dog
world. We are one of two
dog breeds that have a blue-
black tongue, the other being
a Chow-Chow which indicates
we could be related.
The Chinese Shar-Pei has
been traced back to the Han
Dynasty in China (200 B.C.)
When China was formed as a
communist country, the dog
population was reduced mostly
to farms outside the cities. We
were used in all tasks on the
farm, as they could not have a
Advertising in the
pet gazette delivers!
• The Pet Gazette is a monthly newspaper directed at pet lov-
ers. Our Our features and columns include interviews with local
veterinarians, the latest in product and book reviews, local
adoption pages and much more.
campaign.
Because of
our rarity
and unique traits, an enthusi-
astic interest developed and
our breed flourished here in
the United States.
We are only acceptable in
show standards in solid color;
I am considered a Bella be-
cause of my blue tinted color
on my face and ears. We
have strict guidelines in ref-
erence to our high set curling
tail, our broad muzzle and of
course our coat. We should
have the look of a hippopota-
mus, as far as muzzle, head,
and overall structure. We are
strong and muscular in stature.
We are regal, alert, dignified
and independent in personal-
ity. Due to our heritage on
Because of the Shar-Pei’s rarity and unique traits, an enthusiastic interest developed and our breed
flourished here in the United States.
the farms, we are extremely
devoted to our family, almost
to a fault protective of them to
outsiders. My masters are my
property; it is my duty to be
sure anyone who encounters
them has only the best inten-
tions with them. We stand our
ground firmly with calmness
and confidence. Our scowling
look can be quite intimidating;
don’t push us too far because
we will protect what is ours.
I love my family, but I am a
little guarded and standoff-
ish to outsiders. Because of
these qualities we may require
additional training time and
more socialization than other
breeds. We may need a family
that has had dog experience in as adults. I am a great com-
the past to be sure we grow up panion for my family, I like to
happy and can give us the at- be active but do not need hours
tention we need. of continuous activity. I prefer
The Chinese Shar-Pei has been traced back to the Han
Dynasty in China (200 B.C.) When China was formed as
a communist country, the dog population was reduced
mostly to farms outside the cities.
Our special coat requires to use my energy in spurts, I’ll
little grooming, and we do not play for a while and then I’ll
shed. I am very tidy and keep have longer periods of rest.
myself very clean. I need ex- It’s probably a good idea for
tra help in keeping my wrinkles me to have my own bed. If
and ears clean and my nails we share, I warn you, I do hog
clipped. We are 18-20 inches my space in the bed (which
tall and weigh 45-60 pounds you may think is your space).
I am not easily moved during
my rest time, it’s like trying to
move a hippo. Again, I am
protective of what I perceive
as my property and I will not
surrender easily! Smaller
children sometimes are cau-
tious near me because of my
guarded nature and daunting
look. As long as I am intro-
duced to outsiders properly, I
welcome them into our home.
Diane Donovan is the
owner of K-9 to 5 in Hanover.
For more information visit K-
9to5.net.

• The Pet Gazette has a readership of more than 50,000 and

growing! Our readers take an active interest in the well being of
their pets and advertising in the Pet Gazette promotes customer
interest in local pet businesses.

• Whether you provide a pet-related service or sell a pet-related

product, the Pet Gazette can help you reach potential custom-
ers throughout Southeastern Mass. and all of Cape Cod. Reach
your specific target market! Every person that picks up a Pet
Gazette either owns pets or enjoys pets. You just can’t target
your audience any better than that!

ADVERTISING QUESTIONS?
Contact Robin Nudd
Ads@petgazette.net • 781-934-2811 ext. 23

8
Pet Gazette February 2010
 By George Sommers
Parrot Star
of a video game, water drip- Squeak, a hybrid Catalina ma-

S
Pet Gazette Columnist
ome of the finest
parrot performances
are featured on “Pet
Star”, airing in reruns week-
days at 8 a.m. on “Animal
Planet”. The birds frequently
fly away with first prize.
An Indian ringneck para-
keet putted a ball in a REAL
minigolf course. (OK, one
went into the sandtrap first)
along with sinking a basket-
ball and other tricks. The bird
was a gift from Johnny Carson,
as a replacement for another
that appeared on the “Tonight
Show” but later; like Carson,
ping and a champagne bottle
uncorking.
Yet another grey, Einstein,
howled like a wolf, laughed
Snidely Whiplash-style for
“evil”, “Wshssh-wshh”ed for
whispering and even bragged
about being “a superstar”.
Iko the New Orleans
cockatoo somersaulted on a
tightrope for celebrity judges
including Massachusetts’ own
Maria Menounos, correspon-
dent for “The Today Show”,
“Access Hollywood”, etc.
A black headed caique
named Cassie and Willie the
greencheeked amazon from
Florida showed off their
atheletic prowess on mini-
stairmasters, tightropes, hang-
ing hoops, etc. while Marga-
ret, a hyacinth macaw from
Maryland, in Houdini tradition
picked a latch and escaped
from a cage in 5 seconds; lit-
erally a quarter of the time it
took a human audience volun-
Talented birds are featured on “Pet Star.” This macaw might
be next!
teer.
Koalabi the sulphur crested
cockatoo imitated NASCAR
fans by rotating his head along
with laughing, speaking, bow-
ing and waving.
Dutch, the patriotically at-
tired roller skating macaw was
–Photo by George Sommers
a crowd pleaser as was a flag
raising conure, an artistic blue
and gold macaw named Rox-
anne and a bare eyed cockatoo
named Dundee from Las Ve-
gas who flew through hoops
and “delivered” mail, includ-
ing raising the mailbox flag.
caw from California, worked
a swing, turning around 360
degrees several times.
Animals don’t ALWAYS
feel compelled to perform
on cue. Echo the yellowhead
Amazon ignored entreaties
to speak, mortifying his lady
handler – but later saved face
by speaking bilingually –
“Hello!”, “Hola!”; doing ani-
mal impressions and singing
“Old McDonald”. The bird
from Hazel, Texas came from
behind to beat many strong
contenders to by a beak.
Ally, an Alexandrine para-
keet likewise blew his cues but
redeemed himself by uttering
a few words at the end.
Ricky, a 25 year old yellow
naped Amazon, didn’t quite
pull off his alleged signature
trick of climbing into a paper
bag and laughing hysterically,
but did do some talking and
animal impressions.
That’s show biz!

Fish & fowl

earned its heavenly wings.
Max the parakeet followed
a grueling obstacle course of
ladders and ropes. The budgie
whisperer, a 12 year old San
Diego boy, led his friend with
a mirror, prompting celebrity
judge and former “Baywatch”
beauty Gena Lee Nolin to ad-
mit that she, too, had a mirror
fixation!
Yahkee, a yellow naped
amazon, crooned: “Oh My
Darling Clementine” and
“Rockabye Birdy”. Another
yellow naped named Korbell
sang opera, howled coyote
style and cried like an infant.
Kiri the African grey par-
rot from Washington, shopped
with a miniature shopping cart,
“read” a tiny book and even
flushed a parrot-sized potty!
Wazoo, a Congo African
grey parrot from California,
performed uncanny renditions
VCA South Shore
(Weymouth)
Animal Hospital
Internal Medicine
Michael Bernstein, DVM, DACVIM,
Medical Director
595 Columbian Street
Angelyn Cornetta, DVM, DACVIM,
Intern Director South Weymouth, MA 02190
Alice Hadden, DVM, DACVIM
Susan Morrison, DVM, DACVIM
Jerry Perry, DVM
(781) 337-6622
Bruce Walker, DVM
Cardiology • Full Service Veterinary Hospital
Susan Morrison, DVM, DACVIM
(Internal Medicine)
Bradley L. Moses, DVM,
• 24 Hour Emergency Service
DACVIM (Cardiology)
Neurology
• Appointments Available Seven
Stephanie Kube, DVM, DACVIM
(Neurology)
Days a Week
Dermatology
Klaus Earl Loft, DVM Dedicated team of 29 doctors on staff –
Emergency/Critical Care
Angelyn Cornetta, DVM, DACVIM
including Board Certified specialists in
Angela Girello, DVM Surgery, Internal Medicine, Neurology,
Alison R. Gaynor, DVM, DACVIM,
DACVECC Emergency/Critical Care, Radiology,
Cindy Lopes, DVM
Ophthalmology
Ophthalmology, and Avian Practice
Bill Greentree, DVM, DACVO
Surgery
David Diamond, VMD, DACVS
Radiology/Diagnostic Imaging
Lori Hartzband, DVM, DACVR
Diana Rosenstein, DVM, DACVR
The Best of Quality Care for
Avian and Exotic Animal Medicine Every Stage of Your Pet’s Life!
Stephen Dyer, DVM, DABVP (Avian)

February 2010
Pet Gazette 9
 Alpaca's High on the List of
Perfect Outdoor Pets her husband, Jim, could escape

L
By Sally Redmond from suburban Boston and buy
a farm in New Hampshire.
ooking for an outdoor wonder pet? Consider the
She chose alpacas because
alpaca. They’re gentle, intelligent, lovable, high- she didn't want something that
ly disease-resistant, inexpensive to maintain, safe you had to milk or kill. She
for little children, easy to handle, and income-producing. also had a life-long interest
People come to alpaca ownership for many reasons. Some in fiber arts. Since buying the
farm, Jim's life has gradually
raise them as a primary source of income; some as a part-time
changed from full-time secu-
business venture; some to escape the pressures of the corpo- rity analyst to part-time trust
rate lifestyle; some because caring for them is a rewarding officer to full-time breeder and
family experience. But all agree it’s the personality of the farmer.
alpaca that endears them to the breed. Like the Crews, the Kings
have grown to love the ani-
mals. Their farm, Skye View
Barbara and Ken Crews tall at the withers and weighs Alpacas, began with two fe-
raise 12 alpacas on their farm, between 125 and 150 pounds. males and one gelding in
Angelic Alpacas, in Virginia. Neither of the Crews had 1992. Today they have 75 al-
Barbara describes their per- any experience in farm life pacas, along with two Scotch
sonalities as catlike. They until they founded Angelic Highland Cattle, three llamas,
move slowly, smoothly, and Alpacas in 1998 to escape the angora rabbits, six chickens, a
quietly. They even sneak up dog-eat-dog business world. dog and two barn cats.
on the Crews' family cats. Although both still hold oth- Introduced into the US in
Like felines, they are also ex- er jobs, they consider alpaca 1984, alpacas are now banned
tremely curious. Barbara says breeding a positive step to- from being imported. They
they tend to be shy, but curios- ward simplifying and enrich- also don't reproduce quick-
ity always overcomes their in- ing their family's lifestyle. ly. Their gestation period is People come to alpaca ownership for many reasons. Some
stinctive reticence. They don’t Unlike the Crews, Sue 11-1/2 months, and they only
bite or butt, which is a big plus King always wanted to farm, raise them as a primary source of income; some as a part-time
have one offspring a year. So,
for a pet that stands about 36" but had to wait until she and business venture; some to escape the pressures of the corpo-
in order to increase their herd,
rate lifestyle; some because caring for them is a rewarding
the Kings buy new stock from
Canine Chiropractic one of the 30,000 breeders in
the US, selling babies and put-
family experience. But all agree it’s the personality of the
alpaca that endears them to the breed.
ting the money into females.
Owners and breeders are very costs $2,000 to breed a female, in an acre of pasture. With clo-
Improving the alignment and particular about propagating but that expense comes with a ven hoofs, like sheep, alpacas
performance of your dog will only the best characteristics of guarantee of pregnancy, birth, must have a "pedicure" every
improve their health........Naturally the alpaca. Most do DNA test- and survival of the offspring 2-3 months and need worming
ing and keep strict breeding for 30 days after birth. medicine monthly. Clean-up is
INDEK CHIROPRACTIC records. "Although we may
think we know who a sire is,
Both the Crews and the
Kings cite ease of care as a plus
easy since they deposit their
droppings in a few particular
alpacas can be sly," says Bar- to owning alpacas -- as pets places. Barbara says she's seen
or as income-producing ani- them stand in line to wait their
617-472-0661 bara Crews.
Why all the empha- mals. They need water, a cup turn at their designated spot in
sis on lineage? For breed- of mineral supplement, and the Crews’ pasture.
ers, it determines the value hay or pasture grass every day. Shearing is done ev-
Chiropractic can be used for
chronic & acute problems & part of an individual animal. The And they don't have expensive ery spring when the weather
of a wellness program with your Kings were just at an alpaca tastes. The Crews' 12 alpacas warms up. The Crews have a
Veterinarian. show in Michigan where a go through a bale of hay a tilt-top table that they sand-
male sold for $145,000. The week. They require minimal wich the alpaca up against
jackpot winner is an alpaca fencing; you can put five to 10 when the top is horizontal to
named Legacy, who sold for
“Dr. Bruce has been in practice for 26 years and $270,000 and is now in stud
has the utmost compassion and caring for your in Washington State. A female ALPACA FACTS
of average breeding quality
dog. Appointments at your home or (based on her fiber) goes for
Alpacas have a rich and deep history. Fossil records point to an
alpaca-like animal, indigenous to North America, that was the
Norwell Animal Hospital.” $1,500. Geldings that are not ancient ancestor of the genus Camelus. Now extinct, this ancestor
good for breeding range in crossed the Bering Straits into Asia and Africa to become the camel.
wwww.Indekchiropractic.com price from $500 to $15,000. It The remaining descendants, alpacas, llamas, guanacos, and the
vicuña, are native to South America, with the heaviest concentra-
tions of alpacas in Peru, Bolivia, and Chile.
CARING + EXPERIENCED STAFF /
Ê8‡,
9ÊUÊ1/,
-"1  During the 1400s the Inca Empires bestowed special religious sig-
nificance on the alpaca and separated them from other livestock.
FULL-SERVICE VETERINARY HOSPITAL "-ÊUÊ

/-ÊUÊ ,-ÊUÊ 8"/
- Only specially designated couturiers were permitted to spin and
weave the fiber. Alpaca garments were reserved exclusively for

- ,Ê-1, ,9ÊUÊ-1, ,9 COMPLETE DENTAL SERVICES members of the royal family and highest government officials.
Unfortunately, alpacas were all but wiped out with the arrival of the

781-340-0800 Spanish.
Alpacas were rediscovered in the mid 1800s as an excellent source
of fleece for making soft yarns and garments, and there are now five
to six million breeders, primarily in Australia and South America.
1389 Main Street Alpacas are environmentally friendly due to their padded hoof. They
(Route 18 South) do not bite or butt and do not have the teeth, horns, or claws to
cause injury. They don’t bleat or whinny; the only noise they make
Weymouth, MA 02190 is a humming sound. They need basic shelter from heat and foul
weather but love a light snowfall. They do not challenge fences.
Alpaca is considered by many fashion designers to be a pre-eminent
fiber, used alone or in combination with other luxury fibers like
angora, mohair, silk, and cashmere. The alpaca makes an excellent
companion animal, has a breedable disposition, and is easily trained
,

Ê-/,
 ]Ê6ÊUÊ",Ê
,6 9]Ê6
-"1/
"
-/

°
"
and gentle enough for children.
To learn more about alpacas, turn to www.aoba.org, www.angelical-
<Ê
<
*
]Ê6ÊUÊ

Ê

, ]Ê6 pacas.com or skyeviewalpacas.com.

10
Pet Gazette February 2010
 Alpacas in Duxbury
Julia Swem beginning and halter training them.

L
Special to the Pet Gazette The Bulmans have set up an appropri-
ast year three Alpacas moved in ate environment for them as well. They have
with the Bulman family in Dux- fenced in an area of their front yard that
bury. They arrived at the Bul- includes trees for shade as well as a little
man’s around Mother’s Day and are adjust- handmade hut for them if they want to get
ing well, according to the family. out of the rain or extreme heat. Many peo-
The Alpacas have been noticed around ple in town are a little nervous with the Al-
town because they’re not the typical Dux- pacas so close to one of the main streets in
bury Yellow Lab. Maura Bulman has loved Duxbury, but Maura Bulman doesn’t seem
Alpacas since she was a little girl and finally to be worried. Alpacas are herding animals
decided to try her luck with them. Every- that are pretty timid and love to stay in one
thing is running smoothly so far. place. They are not apt to challenge their
“They’re not much more care than a dog. fence, which The fence was built more to
They just need fresh water every day and keep other threats out than to keep the al-
their hay checked and changed every couple pacas in.
of days.” Bulman said. Even scooping their Overall the Alpacas are a nice addition
poop is easy. They all go in the same area to the town. They’re friendly and make great
and it makes wonderful compost which is a Jonas Bulman poses with one of his family’s three pet Alpaca pets that some people consider safer than a
very valuable and organic resource. llamas. Jonas’s mother Maura said she has always loved the lot of dogs. They are also not like Llamas
The Bulman family also includes three animals. that can be very nasty by kicking and spit-
kids, Jason and Ave and a foster child named ting. The Alpacas have this ability but will
Jaquarre. The Alpacas have been wonderful anything at dog level.” Jason said. All together the only use it if they feel extremely threatened.
with the children because they are very sweet and Bulmans have three Alpacas, one for each of their Alpacas are certainly not for everyone, but the Bul-
curious, Bulman said. Interestingly, Alpacas actu- children. The children have had a hand in taking mans and a growing number of area families are
ally prefer children because they are very timid by care of the animals, by hand feeding them in the finding them the perfect choice for them.
nature and feel less threatened by them. “They love

the ground. They then tilt the
top until the animal is off the
ground and lying down. Bar-
bara holds the alpaca and Ken
does the shearing.
Alpacas are outdoor ani-
mals so their coats have lots
of debris in them. Washing or
brushing ruins the architecture
of the fiber, so the Crews use a
vacuum to blow debris out of
the coat before shearing. After
shearing, Barbara “skirts” the
fiber, picking out debris.
The Kings and the Crews
both sell their fleece to coop-
eratives and to local weavers
and knitters. Barbara Crews
says the money derived from
the sale of their fiber product
covers all their alpaca expens-
es. The blanket fleece, which
comes from the back, is high-
est in quality. The leg and neck
hair is second quality and gets
a lower price. Sue sells her
blanket fleece for $32 a pound
raw and $64 a pound cleaned.
She estimates she gets six to
eight pounds per animal.
Sue estimates that it takes
her two to two-and-a-half
hours every morning and one
hour every night to care for her
herd. In addition to feeding and
watering, she sweeps the barns
every morning. The Kings feel
that it's easy work because
the breed is peaceful, easy to
manage, and packed with per-
sonality. “If you're willing to
spend time with them,” Sue
says, "they are willing to re-
late to you." They are general-
ly extremely healthy animals.
Birthing, too, is usually easy.
Sue and her husband hope to
grow their herd to 100 and can
handle the work between the
two of them. They do have an
assistant so there’s someone
to take care of the farm when
in alpacas there are shows all
over the country where own-
ers compete and show in both
halter and agility contests. In
a halter contest, alpacas are
judged for their conformation
and their fiber, which is
considered one of the
world's finest and
most luxurious.
The special ar-
chitecture of
the alpaca fi-
ber allows it
to trap air,
resulting in a
lightweight,
but warm
garment, as
soft as cash-
mere, and four
times warmer
than wool with-
out its weight or
prickle. It comes in
22 basic colors, more
than the coat from any
other fiber-producing animal.
If fiber, fabrics, and weav-
ing are not your thing, agil-
ity competitions, designed to
show how easy alpacas are to
handle, provide a great deal
of fun and entertainment.
The competition ranges from
beginning to advanced. The
course is set with a variety
of obstacles. Tarps are placed
on the ground to simulate wa-
ter. There are tents to walk
through, poles to walk around,
steps up and steps down, and
blankets with bells on them.
Barbara says the bells drive
them bananas, or as much as
these gentle creatures can go
bananas. Ribbons go to the
most unflappable alpaca. Be-
cause they are so peaceful,
you'll see handlers aged three
to 73 leading their alpacas
through their paces.
tremely trustworthy and partic-
ularly intrigued by the young.
Sue King says she thinks it
could be children's small size
that draws alpacas to them.
Because of their gentleness,
it's safe to have even the very
young and the infirm around
them. They don't bite, stomp
on feet like horses, or butt like
goats. The Crews’ daughter's is something about animals
baby-sitting clients always that is very calming. The se-
get the extra treat of spend- niors relax around the animals
ing time with an alpaca. One and soon begin telling their
of the alpaca's most endear- stories. To Sue, that’s what her
ing characteristics is some- farm is about.
thing called “pronking.” The Kings also use their
Barbara Crews calls animals at fundraising events.
it their “Pepe Le They have two or three “PR
Pew run.” Just at guys,” young alpaca males
dusk (when it's who are able to put up with
impossible to anything, that they've used
get a pho- for activities that range from
tograph), Nativity scenes to carrying
they run in cakes for a black tie din-
and jump ner. This past December they
into the air, began training a 4-H group to
hanging handle alpacas and take them
there for a to fairs. Because the animals
few seconds relate so well to children, the
with all feet 4-H-ers had them trained in 2
off the ground, days.
like the love- As word has gotten out
struck skunk of about Skye View Farms, the
cartoon fame. Kings have had numerous
Sue and Jim King unexpected visitors that just
use their alpacas' charm- drive down the driveway. A lo-
ing, gentle nature to give a cal television news magazine
little back in life, philanthropi- show has just finished a piece
cally. Sue particularly likes on their farm, and the Kings
working with older people and foresee a flood of visitors this
has a local nursing home bring summer. They're confident the
people out in vans every week. alpacas can take it!
They even take the alpacas to
nursing homes. Sue feels there
Full Service Veterinary Hospital
Dogs, Cats & Exotic Animals
House Calls*
Office Hours Mon-Sat by appointment
Lisa M. Teixeira, DVM
Paige Pongratz, DVM
Jennifer J. Johnson, DVM
* Limited to active clients*

they are away at shows. Alpacas’ talents are far

Showing Alpacas? reaching. They are very good
Yes. If you're interested with children. They're ex- 115 Mattakeesett St.
Pembroke, MA 781-293-5184
February 2010
Pet Gazette 11
 The passive-agressive BLM
By Rick Larsen resorted to passive aggressive
D
Pet Gazette Columnist personality disorder (PAPD).
ecember 28th, just According to the original Di-
3 frigid mornings agnostic and Statistical Man-
after Christmas ual of Mental Disorders, pas-
day, the US Bureau of Land sive-aggression is described as
Management (BLM) started “a pervasive pattern of passive
capturing 2500+ wild horses resistance to demands for ad-
in Calico Mountains Com- equate social and occupational
plex, Nevada. This branch of performance.” “Too clinical,”
our Department of the Interior I mused. I delved further.
has been rounding up an un- My favorite description
precedented number of wild so far is on the website www.
horses and shipping them to straightdope.com. Author Ce-
an uncertain future. BLM sci- cil Adams writes: “The term
entists say that the land can’t “passive-aggressive” was in-
support the horses, so for now troduced in a 1945 U.S. War
35,000 horses have end up in Department technical bulle-
taxpayer funded feed lots, long tin, describing soldiers who
term holding areas, or up for weren’t openly insubordinate
adoption. It costs us millions. but shirked duty through pro-
What’s the real deal? crastination, willful incom-
I think it’s because the petence, and so on. If you’ve
BLM is passive-aggressive, ever served in the military
just like I was when I was during wartime though, or for
that matter read Catch-22,
you realize that what the
HORSE brass calls a personal-
ity disorder, a grunt might
TALK call a rational strategy to
avoid getting killed.” So
what does that have to do
with my honey-do list, the
a husband – the first time BLM, and 35,000 wild horses
around… but I’m better now. in captivity?
Lemme ‘splain. According to my ex, I
It used to be, when I was was a pain in the butt. I had
handed a honey-do list, and my own agenda and little re-
I had conflicting or different gard for others. And of course
priorities than my then-wife, I neither of us had any money
Black feather horse rescue
508-951-4685 - www.blackfeatherhorserescue.org
Cinnamon is a small mare in her early
teens. Cinnamon gets her name from
the unique color of her coat which is
Chestnut but is a much brighter color
that almost resembles cinnamon.
Cinnamon is approximately 14.3 hands.
Sassy is an older Bay Thoroughbred
Mare, approximately 15 hands. She is
well schooled and possesses the kindest
brown eyes. She came from an unfortu-
nate situation, but she has now put on
some weight and is coming along nicely!
We are open and here for
our patients
Please call
508-428-6393 to schedule or reschedule
Monday - Saturday 8-5
Cape Cod Animal Hospital has been in
continuous operation since 1930 and will be
Complete rebuilt. The hospital will continue to serve
Medical Care this wonderful community.
Scott E. Munson, VMD
Melaine L. Bikis, DVM
Heidi A. McMorrow, DVM
1411 Osterville Road West Barnstable
12
We should be proud of our horses and treat them with reverence,
but as individuals, it takes time and energy to advocate for what
you and I think is right.
sense. Toward the end, it was
easier to be passively resis-
tant. I thought it was a rational
strategy.
But since then, I have
learned to be a little more at-
tentive and focused, as a par-
ent, as a horseman, and as a
better husband to my second
Respecting these horses is important for the soul, like a playground for your kid,
or a place to fish, or a local store up the street where we can get penny candy…
and final wife. I needed bet-
ter priorities. I had to decide,
“What is the most important
contribution I can make to
those whom I care about?”
BLM director Bob Abbey
writes, “The Bureau of Land
Management’s top priority is
to ensure the health of the pub-
lic lands so that the species de-
pending on them – including
the nation’s wild horses and
burros – can thrive. To achieve
that end, the BLM’s wild horse
and burro program must be put
on a sustainable course that
benefits the animals, the land,
and the American taxpayer.”
Lofty words, yet many are
Pet Gazette
saying that Bob is a pain in the
butt. They think he has little
regard for what others want. In
fact, the Government Account-
ability Office just wrote a big
report and told BLM that they
have no money sense. Three
quarters of the BLM horse
budget goes to feeding cap-
for a quarter.
tive horses that should be and
could be wild. Now they are
planning to round up another
12,000 horses in the coming
year, and I thought I had no
money sense?
What we don’t see is
Bob’s honey-do list. Every-
one is vying for a piece of
Bob and his BLM pie. This
includes: agri-business that
funds much of the cattle in-
dustry, our wild horses that are
protected by a law called the
1971 Free Roaming Horse and
Burro Act, and most recently,
the El Paso Corporation, who
wants to bury a 3 billion dol-
lar natural gas pipeline smack
dab through the middle of our
northern wild horse country.
Finally, there’s lots of stuff
that Bob should do for horses,
but he can’t, unless Congress
says it’s okay.
If I was Bob, I might also
find passive-aggression to
be the least vexatious way to
handle my job, but he doesn’t
have to be that way. He just
needs some support from you
and me. Bob and his boss,
Secretary of the Interior Ken
Salazar work for us. They are
supposed to do what you and
I think is most important. One
way to get our views heard is
to go to their bosses, Presi-
dent Barack Obama and his
wife Michelle. You can write
to them at www.whitehouse.
gov/CONTACT/ or call (202)
456-1111.
If you and I don’t go to bat
for our horses, corporate agri-
business and energy concerns
will have first dibs, because
they talk to Bob and Ken all
the time. But I think we need
to tell corporate America and
our president that our horses
are important too, just like we
did when congress passed the
Wild Horse and Burro act in
1971.
Respecting these horses is
important for the soul, like a
playground for your kid, or a
place to fish, or a local store
up the street where we can get
penny candy… for a quarter.
We should be proud of our
horses and treat them with rev-
erence, but as individuals, it
takes time and energy to advo-
cate for what you and I think
is right.
I urge you to take time to
decide on your priorities. If
you are a teacher or a parent,
wouldn’t this make a great
research project and ethics
discussion? On the web, it’s
easy to learn about all sides of
this wild horse debate. If you
choose horses, I strongly en-
courage you to call the White
House and let your feelings
be known. Then we can help
“BLM Bob” with his passive-
aggression. I think we need to
insist that Bob foster horse-
friendly priorities so he can
be a good boss for our BLM.
We need to help him to know,
“what is the most important
contribution he can make to
those whom he should care
about.”
Rick Larsen lives in Marsh-
field, Massachusetts where he
enjoys both his own horses,
and helping others with their
horses. In 2006, Rick adopted
and gentled a BLM mustang
from Sulphur Springs, Utah.
See more about Rick www.
ricklarsen.net.
February 2010
 Vested Interest brings
safety to police dogs
“Protecting K-9s is Our
Priority” is the motto of newly Underwater Treadmill Spa Pool
formed organization Vested For Treatment of:
Interest in K-9s, Inc.
Seven days a week, 24
s/RTHOPEDIC.EUROLOGIC3URGERY
hours a day, Sandy Marcal has s#ONDITIONING3TRENGTH"UILDING)MPROVE&UNCTION
been available to help man’s s7EIGHT-ANAGEMENT
best friend…K-9 friend. For
the past eight years, she has Now offering Chiropractic Services!
volunteered organizing events
and raised more than $50,000 7ASHINGTON3T3TOUGHTONs


to provide bullet protective WWWANIMOTIONANIMALREHABCOM
vests for law enforcement
K-9s in Massachusetts. In
2009, Marcal decided to pur-
sue her dream and organized WE ARE HERE WHEN
Vested Interest in K-9s, Inc.,
a non-profit whose mission it
YOU NEED US!
is to provide vests for police Veterinarians and technicians on site 24 hours a day.
dogs in Massachusetts. New Locally owned and operated since 1975.
K-9s graduating from the Mas-
sachusetts Police Academy IN AN EMERGENCY
as well as K-9s with expired 508-580-2515
vests will have an opportunity 24 hour care for sick or injured pets. Chief of Staff
to be placed on Vested Interest Board Certified in Emergency and Critical Care.
in K-9s, Inc. wait list.
Marcal has had the oppor- WHEN YOU NEED A SPECIALIST
tunity to work with local po- 508-587-2700
lice departments, Mass. State Board certified veterinarians in internal
Police, Mass. Dept. of Cor- Vested Interest in K-9s, Inc., a non-profit whose mission it is
medicine, surgery, and cardiology.
rections, MBTA (Mass. Bay
to provide vests for police dogs in Massachusetts. New K-9s
Transportation Authority), YOUR FAMILY VETERINARIAN
graduating from the Massachusetts Police Academy as well as
Mass. Department of Men- 508-584-1600
tal Retardation and USAF- K-9s with expired vests will have an opportunity to be placed
Full service veterinary practice including vaccinations,
Hanscom Air Force Base to on Vested Interest in K-9s, Inc. wait list. dentistry, surgery and preventative medicine.
secure protective vests for the
CA. Fennessy teaches an Ani- Donations may be sent
dogs. She often attends K-9
training sessions, meets with
mal Law and Rights course at
Southern New England School
directly to Vested Interest in
K-9s, Inc. P.O. Box 9 East
New England
the handlers, and organizes
meetings between potential
of Law, where he’s an adjunct
professor of law and he teach-
Taunton, MA 02718 or online
at www.vik9s.org. For more
Animal Medical Center
vest sponsors and K-9 teams. 595 W. Center St., W. Bridgewater
es a civil liability course for information, please call 508-
“I have had the honor to Routes 106 and 24 (Exit 16B from 24)
ACOAM (Animal Control Of- 824-6978.
meet many police dogs and
ficers Association of Mass.). www.neamc.com
their dedicated handlers and
Having dedicated his career to
seen many of these K-9 teams
animal welfare, Fennessy was
demonstrate their talents of
invited to speak and present at
apprehension, obedience, nar-
cotics firearms and bomb de-
tection,” Marcal commented.
the 2007 and 2008 National
Animal Law Conference in
pet Drawing of the month
Portland Oregon and the 2009
“It is unfortunate that local
International Animal Law
and state budgets do not have
Conference.
funding for bullet/stab protec-
Sarah Glaser has been an
tive vests, and that’s where
editor for GateHouse Media,
we step in to assist. Each vest
Inc. for three years, follow-
presently costs $725 and the
ing two years as copy chief
waiting list changes often,”
for MPG Newspapers. Be-
Marcal said.
fore working as an editor she
Marcal’s website displays
attended college in North
pastel artwork of law enforce-
Carolina majoring in com-
ment K-9s that was donated
munications. As an editor, she
by local artist Russ Wilkinson
oversaw reports about the K-9
of Wilkinson portraits (www.
program as it impacted the
wilkinsonportraits.com). “His
town of Kingston. Ms.Glaser
work is amazing and com-
has grown up around police
pletely captures the personality
dogs and always found their
of the dogs and the handlers,”
work interesting. Being a life-
Marcal said.
long animal lover, she volun-
Vested Interest in K-9s,
teers her time with various
Inc. is run by Marcal with the
animal rescue organizations.
assistance of fellow animal
Her household consists of four
lovers, Attorney Robert H.
rescue cats. She became ac-
Fennessy Jr. and Sarah Gla-
quainted with Marcal during a Maggie is my Nana and Puba’s dog.
ser, both of whom are charter
fundraiser where the Kingston
members of the Board f Direc-
Police Departments K-9, Oly- Brady, Age 3
tors.
ver was featured.
Attorney Fennessy has
Marcal has plans for a
a solo law practice in Wal-
pole, MA that concentrates in
motorcycle ride and Help- Mail entries to: PET GAZETTE, PO BOX 1656, DUXBURY, MA 02331
ing Paws for the Holidays Pet
Animal Law, Municipal Law, Guidelines
Santa Photos in 2010 to ben-
Employment Law and Family Open to children 14 and under. Work should be on a 8.5 x 11 sheet of white paper with no lines.
efit the cause. Anyone wishing
Law. He previously served as Please use colored pencils or crayons. Entries must include the name and age of child, parent’s name
to volunteer may reach Marcal
captain of the Law Enforce- and contact information, including phone. Please include a brief description including your pet’s name.
at info@vik9s.org.
ment Department of the MSP-

February 2010
Pet Gazette 13

Specializing in Morgan Horses
• Boarding • Training
• Lessons-Adult & Children
• Leases- Show or Pleasure
• Breeding • Sales
2008 Riding Camp Dates
• June 23-27 • July 7-11
• Aug 4-8 • Aug 18-22
25 Center St.
Rte 14.
Pembroke, Ma.
781-294-7448
www.Azeedad.com
All around Training for the
Complete Equestrian
Boarding~Lessons~Sales~Leasing
Equine Massage Therapy
School Vacation Programs
April, July, and August!
www.peakequestrian.com
1089 Main Street • Marshfield
781-834-6166
Veterinary Owned & Operated
Boarding & Dressage
Training Facility
Lessons available for all ages
and levels of riding
Summer Camp
508-430-5393
With a new Indoor Arena,
Offering Lessons
beginner-advanced,
Training and Reschooling,
Horse showing, Ponies for
lease and for sale.
Geraldine Burnet
271 Main Street Plympton, Ma.
(781) 585-0295
Specializing in
Equine
Law
THE LAW OFFICE OF
REBECCA L. CASTANEDA
www.equineattorneyma.com
Telephone: 857-334-1880
Fax: 857-288-5524
14
New hope for senior
pets with cataracts
A
pproximately 40
percent of the 130
million pets in this
Briggs Stable country have some type of eye
disorder. As pets age, their
Tack Shop & Trailer Sales
eyesight often deteriorates,
623 Hanover Street
leading to impaired vision. As
Hanover, MA 02339
you might suspect, the major-
(781) 826-3191 ity of vision-related ailments
fax (781) 829-0091 occur in senior pets. When
Instruction • Training signs of visual impairment
Boarding • Sales become apparent in your pet,
Full Service Tack Shop the culprit is usually a cataract.
Kingston Trailer Sales According to a report from the
American Pet Products Asso-
Mare Willow Farm ciation, cataracts afflict over
12 million U.S. pets. A cata-
ract, which appears as a slight
clouding of the lens or sur-
Welcoming two rounding capsule, can occur in
new instructors one or both eyes. This condi-
Megan Means tion, if left untreated, will ini-
tially cause blurry vision and
Jocelyn Maniglia
eventually total vision loss.
168 Beaver Dam Road While cataracts can afflict the
Plymouth, MA 02360 eyes of both dogs and cats,
Barn 508-224-9559 the problem tends to be more
Boarding & Lessons prevalent in canines.
Historically, cataracts have
Stonecroft Farm required extensive surgery,
W. Bridgewater, MA which can cost in the thou-
508-588-5576 sands of dollars. What’s even
Boarding/Training costlier from an emotional per-
Huntseat, Dressage spective is the stress of putting
Join our a pet through surgery, as well
Middle/High as the recovery time and treat-
School Riding ment involved. In fact, many
pets suffer from post-surgical
Team
side effects ranging from in-
fection, pain and swelling to
Year round lesson programs
ages 4 and up
Indoor & Outdoor Ring total blindness. Some addi-
Small, friendly atmosphere! tional risk factors to consider
include:
Furnace Brook Farm
• Scar Tissue. Development
Erin Collins Van Steenburgh
Licensed Instructor of scar tissue from the surgical
procedure can limit your pet’s
eyesight.
• Glaucoma. Post-operative
Lessons: beginner to statistics suggest that this
advanced, dressage, condition can occur in almost
horsemanship camps,
ages 6 and up. 30 percent of dogs that had
cataract surgery within 6-18
Marshfield, MA months. Glaucoma can lead to
(781) 837-2495
Stonecroft Farm
W. Bridgewater, MA
508-588-5576
Boarding/Training
Huntseat, Dressage
Join our
Middle/High
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Talk to the guy that actually does the work
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Small, friendly atmosphere!
Pet Gazette
As pets age, their eyesight often deteriorates, leading to
impaired vision. As you might suspect, the majority of vision-
related ailments occur in senior pets.
pain, additional surgeries and
even vision loss.
• Death. Undergoing anes-
thesia poses a risk for even
healthy dogs and cats, and sur-
gery is even riskier for older
pets.
According to PetEducation.
com, while most senior health
concerns tend to begin at 7
years, there are a number of
breeds prone to cataracts at
a much younger age. Breeds
prone to cataracts at an earlier
age and the age of onset for
cataracts are as follows:
Afgan Hound - 6-12 months
American Cocker Spaniel - 6 + months
Boston Terrier - Congenital
Chesapeake Bay Retriever – 1 + years
German Shepherd - 8 + weeks
Golden Retriever - 6 + months
Labrador Retriever - 6 + months
Mini Schnauzer - Congenital or 6 + mon
Old English Sheepdog - Congenital
Siberian Husky - 6 + months
Staffordshire Bull Terrier - 6 + months
Standard Poodle - 1 + years
Welsh Springer Spaniel - Congenital
West Highland White Terrier - Congenital
Tom Bagamane, spokes-
person for SeniorPetProducts.
com, points out that there are
niorPetProducts.com exists to
help senior pets live healthier
now non-surgical treatment
options available. Senior Pet
Products now carries PetVi-
sion® eye drops, a nutraceu-
tical ophthalmic product that
has been tested and proven
to reduce the opacity in pet
eyes, specifically due to in-
cipient cataracts, and assists
in maintaining their clarity.
Historically, cataracts have
required expensive surgery.
Now SeniorPetProducts.com
carries the non-invasive alter-
native requiring only a couple
of drops in the affected eye, a
few times a day.
“I have used it [PetVi-
sion] in three canine patients
to date,” says Judith M. Shoe-
maker, DVM, of Always Help-
ful Veterinary Services inNot-
tingham, Pa. “I’ve used it for
patients with cataracts when
surgery wasn’t an option,
dry eyes and chronic corneal
edema. Owners say their pets
seem more comfortable and a
visible improvement has been
noted in these three cases.” Dr.
Shoemaker has used the prod-
uct for about four months in
her holistic practice, and says
it is the only product she has
found helpful in patients with
cataracts.”
Note: It is highly recom-
mended you visit your veteri-
narian to confirm what type of
cataract your pet may have.
PetVision cannot address dia-
betic cataracts, and should
not be used on pets currently
taking a steroid-based medica-
tion.
SeniorPetProducts.com
was founded on two funda-
mental ideas - dogs and cats
require special care as they
grow older and pet owners
need a place to go to learn how
to take better care of their ag-
ing pets. SeniorPetProducts.
com is committed to being the
expert, online resource for the
growing number of pet owners
with older cats and dogs. Se-
lives as they age, by providing
news, information and prod-
ucts for health, wellness, com-
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February 2010
 dog training dog training dog training
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of New England
1008 East Street,Walpole, MA 02081
508.668.7946 (SWIM) • fax 508.668.7973
pet gazette delivers!
Marjorie C. McMillan, DVM, DACVR, CCRP
Cathy Symons, CVT, CCRP
• The Pet Gazette is a monthly newspaper directed at pet lovers. Our
What we do… Our features and columns include interviews with local veterinarians,
Pre-op conditioning – Post-op rehabilitation – Orthotics –
Therapy groups the latest in product and book reviews, local adoption pages and much
Weight Management – Conditioning
more.

VCA Roberts GRACE STRAKE, DVM

LORI HARVEY, DVM • The Pet Gazette has a readership of more than 50,000 and growing!
Animal Hospital LIZ CZAPLICKI, DVM Our readers take an active interest in the well being of their pets and
516 Washington St., Hanover, MA advertising in the Pet Gazette promotes customer interest in local pet
CARING + EXPERIENCED STAFF
Open 7 Days a Week FULL-SERVICE businesses.
VETERINARY HOSPITAL
“A Lifetime LASER SURGERY • Whether you provide a pet-related service or sell a pet-related prod-
of Veterinary 781-340-0800 DIGITAL X-RAY uct, the Pet Gazette can help you reach potential customers throughout
Care” 1597 Main Street ULTRASOUND Southeastern Mass. and all of Cape Cod. Reach your specific target
(Route 18 South)

781-826-2306 • www.VCARoberts.com
Weymouth, MA 02190
SOUTHCOASTALAH.COM market! Every person that picks up a Pet Gazette either owns pets or
enjoys pets. You just can’t target your audience any better than that!

ADVERTISING
QUESTIONS?
Contact Robin Nudd
Ads@petgazette.net • 781-934-2811 ext. 23

February 2010
Pet Gazette 15
 Pet Sitting Pet Sitting Pet Sitting
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My
Wings
Professional Pet Sitting
Serving S. Plymouth & Sagamore Beach
Serving parts of Plymouth, Carver, Kingston & Plympton

Licensed Insured A pet’s first choice in pet care...

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Professional 508-747-4259
www.undermywings.com
www.justaroundthecornerpetsit.com Wishbones for Pets Founder
American Red Cross Certified
Pam Ranheim Owner 508-245-1389 Licensed & Insured - Est. 1994

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Behavioral Issues Transportation
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Kim Kunkel, M.Ed., LMHC 781-545-7297
781-424-4101 pawsitivelypurrfect@comcast.net
Certified Pet CPR + First Aid Serving Scituate & Cohasset since 2001

products/services
7bbJ^_d]i
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U We have everything for all your pets needs
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Where your pet is part of our family

grooming
DAY CARE & HOTEL STYLE LUXURY BOARDING
3500 square feet of indoor play space
One acre of outside Playland!
Hotel Style Luxury Boarding
GROOMING SALON & DAY SPA
Full service pet spa
Full service grooming your pet’s gonna love
We offer all sorts of aromatherapy products!
MOTIVATIONAL OBEDIENCE TRAINING
Indoor training facility
Puppy kindergarten
Basic stinker obedience
Group classes, private lessons & in house residential program

RETAIL STORE
FOOD - TREATS - SUPPLEMENTS - TOYS - AND MUCH MORE! Add a bite to your business!
Abady Canidae/Felidae Halo Nylabone
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16
Pet Gazette February 2010
 • Easy acce
• Conviene
pick up h
• All air con
Cat B
Call for infor

Boarding Boarding Boarding

"Your Dog Will Love It!!" 1184

NEW NEW
NAME! LOCATION! Luxury Cat
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Where your pet is part of our family Clean
All phases from puppy to adult
Motivational Group and Private Lessons Small homey facility with owners
Techniques Resident-Stay Training in residence • Spacious condos
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Pawsitive Expert Problem Solving inspection welcome • Cats Only!
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1014 Pearl St., Brockton
WWWJMPETRESORTCOMs
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Her reading’s much

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A Country Kennel with Resident

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Greengate Kennel is truly unique! It is family owned by longtime breeders

of world renowned Braeside Golden Retrievers and English Cockers. We
have been providing personal, loving care for visiting pets for 35 years.
– Individual climate controlled indoor/outdoor runs
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– Large play yard for individual play or family groups
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– Individual nature walks around our beautiful grounds available Ashland
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– Our staff has been providing superb, gentle care for many years
– References upon request from long-term clients 150 Boston Post Road 3
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Pet Sitting
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Kim Kunkel, M.Ed., LMHC
781-424-4101
Certified Pet CPR + First Aid

pet health

February 2010
Pet Gazette 17
 Taunton animal Shelter all paws rescue
508-822-1463 781-749-0968 | 781-848-8065

Jackson is a male Am Staff about 3 years old. Jackson Isaac: This hand-
is a handsome, strong and muscular guy. He has been
Young Cats and Kittens
Available for Adoption Now! some boy is mostly
patiently waiting quite awhile for that special someone to solid grey and has a
walk in, fall in love with him, and take him home. He is One weekend in early fall, one of our vol- wonderful purr that
hoping this will happen soon! We recommend breed unteers arrived at Walmart only to dis- matches a loving
knowledge and a fenced yard would be ideal. He would be cover that someone was trying to sell kit- personality.
happiest as the only pet in the home. We also recommend tens to any passerby who wanted one. 
no toddlers. Jackson is a smart boy and could benefit Well, that didn’t sit right with our volun-
from obedience training. He needs someone who will let him know they are the teer, and so she convinced the person to
surrender these kitties to the comfort and Rita: Being the only
"leader" and give him consistent rules and structure. Jackson is friendly and female in this group
enjoys going for walks. He loves playing with all kinds of toys and loves great big safety of our shelter.
  made Rita very shy,
rawhide bones! Jackson is a sweet little boy at heart. He would be an excellent but she’s a loving little
They were originally very frightened and
running companion. He seems to like everyone and will often reach a paw out of lap cat who loves to
nervous, but have since relaxed and are
his cage to tap you on the arm to get your attention! :) joyfully responsive to any volunteer who be cuddled.
comes by to keep them company.  It’s
My name is Sheba and I am a female Tabby DSH. My hard to tell this group apart – each one is
owner moved and left me behind-outside in the cold! a gorgeous shade of dark gray – but each
Marty is
Neighbors called the shelter, but it take several days for has their own personality that would make
them a welcome addition to any home! warm and out-
me to be found. I was trying to stay warm. I am now at going like his
 
the shelter and have caught up on sleep and food. I have UPDATE:  We’re happy to let you know brothers and
a crinkled ear which makes me I think look very distinc- that Wallie was adopted – the first of our has the most
tive. I still purr when patted, I have learned not to hold Walmart kitties to find a home.  Only three tiger stripes of any in the group.
grudges against humans-not all people would leave more to go!
their pet behind in the cold winds of December. Please
come to meet me; I am approximately 10 years old.
A Helping paw inc.
508-743-8406 | www.ahelpingpaw.org
Mass HumanE
781-335-1300 - www.masshumane.org
Roxanne is an This pretty dilute-
This handsome boy is waiting for his big moment to older kitten with calico wants her
be adopted! Sam is a 3 year old German Shepherd / gorgeous calico own home so bad.
Lab cross Neutered male. Update on rabies and dis- colors. She is She loves attention,
temper and is heart worm negative.  He is light blond very shy at first, and most often
color, slim-light foot 80 pound dog and has lots of but quickly greets you, but she
energy and needs active people. He is a very affection- warms up and still has a shy side. She would do best
ate dog with a good disposition. Loves to go for leash wants your attention. Best in a home in an adult home with other kitties.
walks -- but does need some training in the leash without young kids, but she would Reduced adoption fee to the right
walking department. He likes the car and loves to play ball and run around in the thrive with the company of other kit- home.
yard so a fenced in yard would be great for Sam. He does ok with other dogs - he ties.
has been in a doggie day care with all kinds of dogs. Sam could go with another Squirrel is has
dog in the household, no cats or small toddlers but older kids ok.  His previous been waiting so
owner had no choice but to give him up and the other family members had to Ms Evonn is one long for the right
move and could not take Sam. He is looking for a loving caring responsible home of the sweetest kit- home who under-
that will keep him for good. If your interested come and meet Sam at the shelter ties - because she's stands her shyness.
or call MHS 781-335-1300 or email masshumane@aol.com an older kitty, most Most often she greets you with purrs,
people won't con- but she is nervous in new places. She
Hi my name is Todd, I am a 3 year old DSH orange & sider her. Age has a best friend named Scribbles -
white neutered male, up to date on rabies & distem- shouldn't matter - not when a 'doll' they've become very bonded. We are
per, combo tested negative, de flea, de worm and like this would make such a loving offering a great deal for the pair. Please
micro chipped. I have a very laid back but lovable, companion. call or email for more info.
charming personality and love to cuddle up with you.
I love my head and chin scratched,  love to
be brushed and will carry a conversation with you. I Animal Protection Center of Southeastern Mass
prefer a quiet environment, I would do well being the 508-586-2053 | www.apcsm.org
only pet or with one other cat., no dogs, kids or small toddlers. I am an indoor cat
only,, not street smart at all. My previous owner died and I was waiting for some- Shrek is a handsome and sweet 5 year old
one to take me as I waited in the house and MHS opened there doors up to me neutered male boxer mix. His owner moved
and here I am ! Please adopt me and give me a forever home! Come and see me and could not bring him along. He has lived
at the shelter or call 781-335-1300 or email masshumane@aol.com with cats and a god in his last home and got
along just fine with them. Shrek knows how to
sit and give high five!
Pet Gazette Adoption
Center Guidelines
• Adoption notices
are published free of
charge for all area
animal shelters.
• The deadline for sub- K.B. is a super
mitting pets is the 15th of Jada and
cute male Skyler
the month. Space will be given out on
a first-come, first-serve basis. guinea pig. are a pair
He's almost 2 of lovely
• Please send a photo and brief write-up years old and
for each pet seeking adoption to adopt@ parakeets.
he is very They are
petgazette.net
friendly! K.B. about 2
• You may send four pets per month. was surrendered to us because the years old
All types of dogs, cats and other children in the home lost interest in
domestic pets are welcome. and must go home together. They are
him. He would like to find a home with friendly and with patience could
•  We encourage shelters to send news people that will love him forever! become hand tame.
of successful adoptions.

18
Pet Gazette February 2010
 Brockton Blue Dog Shelter
508-436-6446| www.bluedogshelter.com
Big Ben is a sweet mixed breed dog who recently
came to our shelter as a stray. We think he is about 8
years old and he weighs 62 lbs. Because he has just
gotten his vaccines, we have not yet been able to
socialize him with other dogs but he has been friendly
with our staff. If you would like a gentle senior citizen
to keep you company, please come to meet Ben during
any regular shelter hours.
Montana is a beauti-
Taco is a very small
ful adult female who
senior citizen who
came to our shelter
needs a new home. He
when her owner could
was originally found as
no longer keep her due
a stray and was adopt-
to family issues.
ed but his family has had some hard
Although she was very
times and can't keep him any longer.
scared at first, she has
We think he is about 10 years old
become good friends
now. Taco needs a quiet home with
with many of the staff and has a very
no dogs (or just with another tiny
dog) or small children. He needs an playful side. Due to her large size and
owner committed to sticking with his strength, Montana can not go to a home
diet as he is over-weight and this is with small children. Because of her
very bad for a tiny dog. Taco loves to breed and size, Montana needs a family
cuddle and go for short walks and with previous large dog experience and
has a great personality. If you would good leadership skills. Montana likes to
like a cute little companion, please play with dogs at our doggie daycare; we
come to meet taco during any regular do not know if she has any experience
shelter hours. with cats.
Rusty is a very special dog who needs a very special home.
Rusty is almost 12 years old and when he was young he was
injured in a fall off a cliff. He can not use his right front leg
although he does have feeling in it and wears a bandanna to sup-
port it. He walks and runs on his other three legs very nicely.
Rusty came to our shelter because he had difficulty adjusting to
life with a small child. Rusty needs a home with no children and
a quiet lifestyle where he can get moderate exercise and lots of love. He will reward
you with lots of love and kisses! If you feel that you could help this special dog,
please come to meet him during any regular shelter hours at our new location 1014
Pearl St. Brockton.
German Shepherd Rescue of new england
978-443-2202| www.gsrne.org
When turned in to a shelter, 2 year old Frieda weighed 60
pounds….not starving; but, certainly, underweight. The ACO  Milton Animal League
said he had taken in a really nice female who deserved a
great home. We  found the right foster home for Frieda, and
she made herself at home. Ten days later, Frieda surprised
(shocked, really) all of us by having puppies!  She was so
thin, that even the veterinarian who filled out her health cer-
tificate did not suspect she was pregnant! Her story is on
our Website, along with pictures of her  pups, Fritz, Freddie,
SNOW WHITE: Handsome one
Gorgeous large year old black and
white 6 year old tan Parker, is a
female of medi- delightful boy
um/high energy, who gets along
who gets along with dogs and
with most other cats.
dogs, needs a
loving home.
OTTO will need a confident leader who can be in control
when meeting other people or dogs, because Otto does not
always have the confidence to face new situations in a
relaxed manner.   He will do best with someone who can read
his body language and give him immediate feedback on how
to behave.  In the right environment, Otto will gain experience
and confidence and learn to watch you, his pack leader, for
instructions before he reacts.  At 18 months of age, he’s still
growing and maturing and figuring it all out. The ideal home
for Otto would be with someone who wants a very intimate
relationship with their dog and will provide strong leadership.  
Otto will do best with a structured life, to be taught what is expected of him in differ-
ent situations and that he should always look to you for guidance in how he should
behave and he has really been doing this in his previous foster home.  Please send a photo and a brief description to
February 2010
Pet Gazette
People for cats
508-540-5654| www.peopleforcats.org
DUCHESS lives up MICKEY is a
to her name. She is short-haired
a very regal and white and black
beautiful kitty. She male Tuxedo
has medium to long who is 6 years
hair that is accented old. He came to
with some strategi- PFC when his
cally placed black owner had to
areas. Her long surrender him because she was moving
black tail is a matter of pride to our into assisted living and could not take
Duchess. At first she was a little shy him with her. Mickey is a calm kitty who
and took her time to warm up to new likes attention and who is becoming
comers, but now she is very comfort- familiar with life at the shelter. After six
able at PFC and has become one of years living in a loving home, he is eager
the real favorites. She is very sweet to find another forever home where he
and affectionate. She has all her can take care of all his owners needs for
shots, has been spayed and is litter love and affection. Mickey is neutered,
trained. Duchess is a special cat just has all his shots and all he needs is an ok
waiting for you to visit the shelter and from you and his bags will be packed!
find her!
PEACHES is a young Scottish Fold female. She is a pale
cream color and her fur is fairly dense, but easily taken
care of. Scottish Fold cats are all descended from one cat
with folded ears that was found in Scotland in 1961.
Peaches, like most of her breed. Is very affectionate, lov-
ing and a great companion. She requires a special owner
because she is deaf. She needs someone who is patient
and willing to work with her. her new owner needs to find
ways to get her attention and anticipate times when being deaf is a handicap for
her. Peaches is spayed, has all her shots and must be an indoor cat. This wonder-
ful kitty needs to find a loving home with a very special family.
JAKE is a year and a half male and is a tiger with dark stripes
on a grey background. Despite his young age, he has had some
twists and turns in his life. He spent a while being lost and
looking for his owner only to meet up with a very kind woman
who fed him and then brought him to PFC. He is a very resilient
kitty and is very friendly. He likes to be petted and when you pet
him he gives you a look of complete devotion. He is looking for
a forever home with a family that would like to play with him, cuddle him and love
him. It¹s about time this sweet boy had a real home. Jake is neutered, has all his shots
and is waiting for you to come in to meet him and take him home.
617-698-0413 | www.miltonanimalleague.org
Tazjah is a 3 1/2 year old spayed female pit bull ter-
rier, who is a playful and active tomboy.  She loves
playing tug, dodge and chase and would do best in an
active home where she would get plenty of exercise. 
Tazjah recently spent a weekend with a shelter volun-
teer and displayed excellent  manners in the home. 
She can get overly excited when meeting dogs and
pulls on a leash, so she would do best with someone who will work with her
these things.  She has lived with children and knows commands.  But what she
really needs is a forever home with someone who will be her friend and leader. 
Olive is a 1 year Spirit is an 8
old spayed year old spayed
female pit bull female domestic
terrier who really medium hair
thinks she is a who was found
lap dog. She as a flea-infested
wants to spend stray. We
as much time as possible around her thought we
humans.   Olive is still young and pup- might have been lucky since Spirit was
pyish…she plays with her toys and microchipped, but her owners had
enjoys life.  She is a loving and sweet never registered the number. We can't
dog who loves resting in the sun.  She imagine why no one came looking for
is not as active as other young dogs Spirit - she's is a sweet cat who is also
and would love to be a companion for gorgeous, with one blue eye and one
someone who spends time at home.    golden eye.
Pet Gazette Adoptions:
adopt@petgazette.net
19
 1014 Pearl Street Phone:508.588.5661
Brockton, MA www.jmpetresort.com

COME VI
SIT OUR
BRAND N
Formerly EW FACI
LITY!

J.M. K-9

Where your pet is part of the family

FOOD OF THE MONTH

15% OFF
EVO any bag
The Nocera Family proudly presents:
The Nocera's Sponsored Fundraiser J.M. Pet Resort and
Wednesday, February 24, 2010 at 5:00 p.m. North Main Street
at Nocera's Restaurant 1165 Park St., Stoughton MA • 781.341.2503 Veterinary Clinic
are sponsoring a
Fundraising Never Tasted so Good!
Canine Influenza
Mark Your Calendars!
On Wednesday, February 24, 2010 enjoy dinner or order take-out from Nocera's Restaurant.
Vaccine Clinic
When paying your check, give the waitperson your ticket. The ticket will be attached to your
check. Nocera's Restaurant will contribute 20% of the total bill.
February 20th &
Tickets available at the door,
online at brocktonbluedogshelter.com,
March 6th
J.M. Pet Resort and Bob's Food Mart. 1-3pm
By appointment only.
PROCEEDS BENEFIT Call J.M. Pet Resort
Easton & West Bridgewater Animal Control for Details.
Located at J.M. Pet Resort 508.588.5661

Day Care
Hotel-Style Luxury Boarding
Grooming Salon
Day Spa
Motivational Obedience
Training
Retail Store

J.M. Pet Resort founded and houses the Brockton Blue Dog Shelter
www.BrocktonBlueDogShelter.com
20
Pet Gazette February 2010

Internal Medicine
Michael Bernstein, DVM,
DACVIM, Medical Director
Angelyn Cornetta, DVM,
DACVIM, Intern Director
Alice Hadden, DVM,
DACVIM
Susan Morrison, DVM,
DACVIM
Jerry Perry, DVM
Bruce Walker, DVM
Cardiology
Susan Morrison, DVM,
DACVIM
(Internal Medicine)
Bradley L. Moses, DVM,
DACVIM (Cardiology)
Neurology
Stephanie Kube, DVM,
DACVIM (Neurology)
Dermatology
Klaus Earl Loft, DVM
Emergency/Critical Care
Angelyn Cornetta, DVM,
DACVIM
Angela Girello, DVM
Alison R. Gaynor, DVM,
DACVIM, DACVECC
Cindy Lopes, DVM
Ophthalmology
Bill Greentree, DVM, DACVO
Surgery
David Diamond, VMD,
DACVS
Radiology/Diagnostic Imaging
Lori Hartzband, DVM,
DACVR
Diana Rosenstein, DVM,
DACVR
Avian and Exotic Animal
Medicine
Stephen Dyer, DVM,
DABVP (Avian)
Dentistry
Michelle Politano, DVM
Sheri Procious, DVM
February 2010
VCA South Shore
(Weymouth) Animal Hospital
595 Columbian St., South Weymouth, MA 02190
(781) 337-6622
www.vcasouthshore.com
Dermatology
Chronic Ear Disease In
Dogs & Cats
If your dog has had two or more ear infections in his or her life, you might have been told that
“all dogs gets ear infections,” or “it is normal for dogs with long, hanging ears to get ear infec-
tions,” or “all dogs that swim get ear infections,” or even that “it is because your dog is digging
in the dirt that he gets ear infections.” These are common misconceptions that Dr. Klaus Earl
Loft, who runs the Dermatology Service at VCA South Shore Animal Hospital in South
Weymouth, MA, has heard from owners who bring him their pets with chronic ear problems.
In reality, a dog that suffers from recurrent ear infections may actually have an underlying
allergic skin condition that, if diagnosed and treated properly, could eliminate or reduce the
incidence of future ear infections.
If your dog has had ear problems that began when he or she was younger than 3 to 4 years of
age, it is likely that the ear problem is secondary to allergies. Older animals that develop their
first ear infection later in life may have problems other than allergies that are the cause for the
ear infection.
In veterinary medicine, it is often the dermatologist who deals with chronic ear diseases in
dogs and cats. This is very understandable, since the ear and the skin are one and the same
organ, and clinical signs associated with the ears are often part of a generalized dermatologic
condition. Some dogs that present with an ear infection will have other clinical symptoms that
are suggestive of allergies, such as foot licking and chewing, itchy skin, reoccurring skin infec-
tions in the groin or elbow area, greasy and scaly hair coat, and/or patchy hair loss. These
symptoms can seriously affect the quality of life in these pets, and managing patients afflicted
with chronic allergic ear disease has become a passion for Dr. Loft. Using the videotoscope at
VCA South Shore for both the diagnosis and treatment of these frustrating chronic ear prob-
lems has increased Dr. Loft’s ability to determine the best therapeutic options for these
patients, and to help deal with the often severe discomfort associated with ear infections.
If Dr. Loft suspects that allergies are the underlying cause for a patient’s chronic skin or ear
issues, he can offer either intradermal or serologic testing for both cats and dogs. Once a spe-
cific allergic cause is identified, he will treat the patient with Allergen Specific Immunotherapy
(commonly known as “allergy shots”). This hypo-sensitization is very similar to what is offered
to humans with atopic dermatitis.
If your dog or cat suffers from reoccurring ear problems or other chronic skin conditions, ask
your regular veterinarian for a referral, or feel free to call VCA South Shore Animal Hospital,
to schedule a consultation with Dr. Loft. In Dr. Loft’s opinion, “Until proven otherwise, a
pet with chronic ear disease is an allergic pet.”
• Full Service Veterinary Hospital
• 24 Hour Emergency Service
• Appointments Available Seven Days a Week
Dedicated team of 29 doctors on staff – including Board
Certified specialists in Cardiology, Internal Medicine,
Neurology, Ophthalmology, Radiology, Surgery,
Avian Practice, and Emergency/Critical Care.
The Best of Quality Care for
Every Stage of Your Pet’s Life!
Pet Gazette 21