Documente Academic
Documente Profesional
Documente Cultură
March 2017
Tri-State Area Pet News
Inside:
Animal Politics page 3
Daycare Games page 5
Art for Animals page 10
Barn Hunters page 11
Events Calendar page 16
KBentley, Lee, MA Complimentary
NEW THIS YEAR:
Outdoor Activities* with your dog!
Raffle, Vendors & Refreshments!
*weather permitting
T
What Happened
Animal Politics
on the
USDA Website
with Karen Karlberg
An important tool in the protection of Animal Welfare has been
taken away by the USDA, we should not let it go quietly.
The first thirty days of a new presi- animal welfare at facilities across the
dency has been marked by many country. The records that had been
changes in all aspects of our lives in- available beforehand, were frequently
cluding animal and wildlife protection used by animal welfare advocates to
and the planet itself. I have chosen to monitor government regulation of ani-
focus my resistance energy and efforts mal treatment at circuses, scientific labs
on how to counter the effects of the and zoos. The public could use the de-
cabinet choice for the EPA, fight the partments online database to search for
bills in Congress and the Senate to information about dog breeders and pet
eliminate the EPA entirely, gut the En- stores. According to the Humane Soci-
dangered Species Act, allow the culling ety of the United States, Seven states
of wolves and bears in Alaskan Wildlife currently require pet stores to source
Refuges and other environmental is- puppies from breeders with clean
sues. I especially want to alert fellow USDA inspection reports, a require-
animal lovers of the obstacles that have ment that now could be impossible to
been thrust in front of us and how to meet because of this removal.
fight back against The United States Animal welfare organizations quickly
Department of Agriculture (USDA). condemned the removal of the infor-
The first subject I want to write about is mation, which they called unexpected This Great Pyrenees was one of 46 dogs rescued from a suspected puppy mill in
the USDA decision to remove Animal and said would allow animal abuse to Arkansas. The removed USDA inspection data includes records on puppy mills and
Welfare information from its website. go unchecked. Senior director of the breeders, potentially shielding abusers from public view.
It was on a Friday, two weeks into the Humane Societys Stop Puppy Mills Photograph by Lance Murphey, AP Images for The Humane Society of the United States
new administration when the USDAs Campaign, John Goodwin, said, The
Animal and Plant Heath Inspection USDA action cloaks even the worst said much of the information he has The USDA reports are one of the only
Service (APHIS), abruptly removed in- puppy mills in secrecy and allows gathered on animal testing at hundreds ways that journalists can have an im-
spection reports and other information abusers of Tennessee walking horses, of federal facilities including in- mediate insight into those who may be
from its website regarding the treat- zoo animals and lab animals to hide spection reports and annual reports that running afoul of federal animal welfare
ment of animals at thousands of re- even the worst track records in animal can include information on the species law. This last usage, may have been a
search laboratories, zoos, dog breeding welfare. In a statement, Kathy and numbers of animals used came driving force behind the removal, be-
operations and other facilities. The tim- Guillermo, the senior vice president of from the USDA-APHIS database. He cause included with the removed
ing is suspicious since it was only 2 People for the Ethical Treatment of An- said the departments reference to pri- records were enforcement actions
weeks into the newly hired Trump ad- imals, called it a shameful attempt to vacy requirements were puzzling, be- against violators of the Animal Welfare
ministration officials. Conveniently, keep the public from knowing when cause many of the documents were Act and the Horse Protection Act iden-
the USDA immediately states The rea- and which laws and regulations have already heavily redacted. The page tifying violators by name.
son the data was removed was the re- been violated. Many federally regis- where the information was located now When directly asked by a reporter
sult of comprehensive reviews that had tered and licensed facilities have long brings up the announcement about its about the changes, a USDA-APHIS
taken place over the past year. So to histories of violations that have caused removal. There was already a trou- representative referred back to the
conduct these reviews, the USDA de- terrible suffering. bling lack of transparency about what departments statement, While the
cided to take the entire agency search Another interesting aspect of the re- happens in government-funded labs, agency is vigorously defending against
tool database off line. moval, is that it occurred two days after Goodman said. This was a very im- this litigation, in an abundance of caution,
The initial reaction of the data removal Rep. Ken Calvert (R-Calif.) introduced portant resource for us, and for every the agency is taking additional measures
sent shock ways through the animal a bill calling for more information animal organization, in terms of track- to protect individual privacy. These
welfare community. I dont think the about and a reduction in testing on an- ing patterns of animal use and compli- decisions are not final. Adjustments
general public had fully realized how imals at government research labs. The ance, whether its in labs or other may be made regarding information
many agencies, individuals and animal bill is backed by an advocacy group, settings. I would venture say this has appropriate for release and posting.
humane groups used the site until it was the White Coat Waste Project, which the appearance of Trump deregulation
gone. This action plunges journalists, says such testing is a waste of taxpayer written all over it. With Animals the continued on page 13
animal welfare organizations, and the dollars. Justin Goodman, the groups victims and wealthy business man who
public at large into the dark about vice president for advocacy and policy, supported Trump the victors.
animal life
that I avoided tobacco, exercised daily, friendship which can needs to be more investigation on
did some meditation, and tried to keep result in more joy the cat impact on humans.
my stress level in check. Last fall I and less stress. This The American Heart Associa-
found myself in a state of less than op- can be especially tion says that people with dogs
timal cardiovascular wellness. I knew beneficial for the are more likely to exercise, have
I had an electrical dysfunction in my person with a Type A lower blood pressure, are less
heart but it never kept me from per- personality. vulnerable to the physiological
Celebrating Our 20th Year! forming my military and civilian nurse Subsequently, per effects of stress and more likely
Your pet. Our purpose.
duties or daily exercising until last fall. Dr. Prieto, the dog is to survive a heart attack.
Dr. Alfonso Prieto
Publisher/Owner
Kim Arre-Gerber I ran daily with my 3 legged Labrador an excellent adjunct In spite of all the positive re-
aladvertising@aol.com and started getting short of breath with to his cardiovascular treatment plan. search and evidence of the effect dogs
Contributing Writers chest pain. I changed my running The dog can aide in promoting cardio- have on our cardiovascular health, this
Iris Bass route to avoid hills. NOT THE THING vascular health by being a companion does NOT mean all people should own
Fran Martino TODO! That did not resolve my symp- and reducing stress thus lower the a dog. A dog is a life- long commit-
Carol Lew toms. I finally got my courage and blood pressure. The dog can aide in ment and requires daily care and pre-
Yoanna Y. Maitre contacted my primary care provider, treatment of cardiovascular disease by ventative veterinary medicine. Getting
Kathy Heinz Ret.Col. Kim May. The work-upbegan. motivating one to exercise. Lastly, but a dog for the sole purpose of having
Karen Karlberg I choose to go to Albany NY for my so importantly, the dog through having better cardiac health is not suggested.
Rebecca Stanard specialty consult. Here I met the out- her owner exercise can trigger certain One must still have a plan to exercise
Leea Foran standing Dr. Alfonso Prieto. He is bodily symptoms that otherwise may and make healthy living choices.
Board Certified in Medicine, Cardiol- not be brought about. That will lead
Happy Tails Until Next Month!!
ogy, and Electrophysiology. He trained the human to seek medical care and
Circulation
Fred Speyrer & Martha Chiorgno
at Columbia Presbyterian in NYC for possibly prevent a major life altering
Cover photo by
over 12 years. Not to mention, worked event. Kathy Mikaniewicz Hynes RN BAN is a
Kim Arre-Gerber
with the famous Dr. Oz for 10 years. The interview with Dr. Prieto vali- veteran AirForce Flight Nurse and has
done research on the Human-Animal Bond
For advertising rates or
My work-up began with a cardiac dated all research I have done on the
information call 413-459-5894 as well as used her rescue dogs as work
catherization at St Peters done by in- topic of Optimal Wellness through the partners . She is the owner/operator of Got
Mailing Address: terventional cardiologist Greg Bishop. Human-Animal Bond. A recent report Spots : an organization to promote optimal
9 County Court, Pittsfield, MA 01201
Upon follow-up with Dr. Prieto 4 days by Dr. Thomas Lee, a Harvard medical wellness through the human-animal bond.
www.animallifeonline.com later I was informed my heart and ar- professor and Cardiologist and Co-Ed- The organization is pending 501c status.
A Paw Print Division of Animal Laughter Studio.
teries are clear and my problem is truly itor in Chief of Harvard Heart Letter She is presently employed as a psychiatric
electrical. We are now in the process reported that dogs decrease the risk of nurse for the Veteran Administration and
All original content copyright 2017 Animal Life.
Original content contained herin can not be reproduced
of working to fix the electrical problem. heart disease. The report further stated a substitute nurse and teacher for the City
without written permission of the publisher.
I have the great privilege and that people with dogs live longer than of Pittsfield.
opportunity to interview Dr. Prieto on those with cats. Whether that is be-
While winter keeps many dogs inside for exercise,
The dogs love to play these games and we
BowMeow Regency, will compete for medals
in the annual Daycare Games.
wanted to recognize the handlers and facilities
taking the best care of their pets by
Have you ever wondered what its like to control a large group of dogs off-leash? having a friendly competition
Most people imagine mayhem and chaos when you put a group of unknown dogs
together. Professional pet care businesses, like BowMeow Regency, are out to
bust that myth. Its true that dogs can fight and bite, but its also true that certain
skills used by excellent daycare facilities will keep dogs safe while they play to-
gether and minimize possible injuries. The Daycare Games are focused on prov-
ing who is the best at providing these skills to the dogs in their care.
Were hoping to take home the Gold, just like in the Olympics. states, Honor
Blume, owner of locally owned BowMeow Regency. By focusing on the most
important skills: getting dogs to sit, having dogs come, and teaching dogs to wait
at the gate, we provide a controlled environment where dogs get exercise without
stress or injury. And this is accomplished without fear or intimidation! states
Blume.
Robin Bennett and Susan Briggs, the co-founders of The Dog Gurus, designed
the Daycare Games to be a skills-based challenge that keeps dogs safe and happy
and recognizes top dog daycare providers for their unique skills.
The dogs love to play these games and we wanted to recognize the handlers and
facilities taking the best care of their pets by having a friendly competition, ex-
plained Briggs.
The Dog Gurus have put together industry standards for operating safe daycare
in their ebook The Four Es of Excellence in Off-Leash Play. Here, they detail
the exact exercises that help daycares take better care of your pet as well as pro-
viding facilities an online membership at www.TheDogGurus.com. This is where
you can learn more about The Daycare Games and monitor the weekly competi-
tion, which begins February 5th and runs through February 25th.
Recipient of the Silver Overall Award in the Small Competitor Class of the 2015
Daycare Games, the BowMeow Regency is dedicated to raising the bar of safety
Daycare has become a growing industry over the past 10 years, but there are
in off-leash play and teaching owners how to know when their dog is happy. In
still many dog owners who dont understand how to choose the best facility.
2016, two staff members were awarded the Certificates of Achievement for re-
Everyone needs to understand the education and training necessary to keep dogs
ceiving gold medals in all three events. All employees continue to aspire to high
safe, a mission that BowMeow Regency remains dedicated to.
standards of safety both in the BowMeow Regency and within the community
through continued education. Established in 1995, all our employees are trained BowMeow Regency is located at 92 Cook Road, Sheffield, MA.
in Pet CPR and First Aid with PetTech, all our groomers are members of the www.bowmeowregency.com. 413-229-0035.
New England Pet Grooming Professionals (NEPGP). We have the only three ac-
credited Certified Professional Animal Care Providers (CPACP) in Massachu-
setts on staff and all Playcare attendants have been trained in canine behavior and
off leash play.
413-446-0684
Reliable
Insured & Bonded
References
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December 28 was a slow day at Purradise when, flouting snow flurries, I ven- as to their having particular tastes in which toys attract them. Although the stuffed
tured in. Several cats I had already written about in this column were still there, mice in no way resembled prey he may have seen outdoors, Christopher instinc-
plus only one I had not met before. Two-and-a-half- tively grabbed and gnawed at them, as well as
year-old Christopher (since adopted)a beautifully snatched up a small ball of colorful metallic
marked gray classic tabby, with a big bulls eye on fluff, perhaps in some primal recognition that
each flankhad no objections to being in the spot- some insects have a metallic sheen. But that
light, so into the Nook we went for a private interview. large ball?...what in nature of that shape or size
The staff had no objection, either, as this gave them a would a cat ever eat? Other cats may be less
chance to restore order to his condo. Just earlier, discriminating, engaging happily with anything
Christopher had splashed water about while drown- that can be batted, carried, or chewed. Some
ing a toy in his water bowl as well as had thrown dont seem to care for toys at all. But for the
sand hither and yon in his zeal for burying a toy in most part, toys help cats connect with one of
his litter boxboth manifestations of natural feline their most basic survival instincts: the hard-
behavior toward actual prey, explained Erin, the shel- wired need to chase and pounce on (and some-
ters manager. times drown or bury!) their food. Even in the
Christopher was already familiar with the most secure and pampered home environment,
small room, having spent the previous night in there so toys tap into our pets genetic link with the
this muscular boy could stretch his legs. But now his greater cat kingdom, where whoever captures
first preference was to plop down on the floor to bask the most toys (that is, food) wins.
in his freedom while appraising me and my photogra- Toys may not seem necessary to do-
pher. He soon let down his guard to bat at and gnaw on mesticated cats physical survival, yet provide
a toy mouse I tossed to him...but then turned out to sustenance to their inner wildcatat gut level
Christopher: winner takes all! Photo 2016 Sheila Heflin.
have strong opinions about what else to play with. helping them feel clever, courageous, and cared
The Three Bears story seemed to apply here: Christopher quickly lost for. Indeed, as I left Purradise that day, I bought my own boys a little plush puppy
interest in the tiny mouse and was downright perplexed my offer of an oversize from the shelters gift section (note: all profits support its mother shelter, the
fabric ball, but then happily leaped onto a large fleece in the middle of the room, Berkshire Humane Society)...to replace a stuffed lion that, having been one of
in one motion circling his arms around all four toys that lay at its center: MINE! their favorites for years, had suffered a final meltdown in their water bowl just the
Once he had established dominance over his prey, he then settled into more night before. It is already an active part of their lets pretend menagerie.
typical Nook behavior of climbing a cat tree by the window to check out the bird
feeder outside. It took about half an hour for him to finally come close enough to This series follows the special human-feline bond at Purradise, the Berkshire Hu-
rub against my leg and accept a head scratch. (The staff had told me that, brought mane Society Cat Adoption Center at 301 Stockbridge Road, Great Barrington,
in as a stray, Christopher is wary of new situations, so this interview was more one MA 01230 (413-717-4244), berkshirehumane.org. Open Wed., Fri., & Sat. 104
of quiet mutual observation than interaction.) While we left, he sprawled posses- p.m.; Thurs. 10 a.m.6 p.m.; and Sun. noon4 p.m.
sively across a large, circular ball-in-track toy he had declined to actually play
with while we were there. Iris Bass, coauthor of the Cat Lovers Daily Companion, shares her Lee home
This was a brief lesson in the importance of cats access to toys as well with five shelter cats.
1-800-843-4100 www.leebank.com
Training Services I havent had a puppy in years, last time though I got to visit the litter and
pick my puppy. This time Ive contacted several breeders of the kind of dog I
want and all have said THEY will select the dog for me. How could they pos-
sibly know which is MY puppy, dont I have to meet and be with the litter to
For appointment and/or
find the one I bond with?
Upcoming Class Schedule
There has been a growing trend among breeders for many years to select puppies
call
518-764-1320 for the buyers rather than let them pick. This has its pros and cons depending on the
breeder and on the client. A knowledgeable breeders goal for selecting is intended
to benefit all parties concerned including the puppy. All too often buyers choose a
puppy based on an emotional response in the moment--hes so lively, shes so
Susan & George Clark, ABCDT sadsam12@hotmail.com www.foryourpetshealth.com quiet, he came right to me, hes all alone in the corner, etc. only months later to find
that this puppy is not well suited for their lifestyle and they want to return her to the
breeder or rehome her to someone else. If a reputable breeder has been in the busi-
ness for many years and is well acquainted with puppy developmental stages and
LEEA FORAN, CPDT-KA, CDBC, CTTP-2
behavior, that breeder will have a very good idea about the personalities in the lit-
ter. They will accomplish this by exposing the pups to lots of little challenges to see
how they handle them--climbing over things, new items in their area, retrieving a
toy, meeting a variety of people, being separated from the litter, etc. Then they will
do a thorough interview with you to find out about your personality, lifestyle, daily
routines, family members and most importantly what you are looking for in your
Learn with a BEHAVIOR CONSULTATIONS & PRIVATE TRAINING
next dog. Do you want to do high drive sports like agility or nosework or tracking?
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Do you want a dog that will become a Therapy Dog to visit the elderly? Do you
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want a quiet companion to go for short walks around the neighborhood? Although
Certified Tellington TTouch Practitioner II
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it is not 100% reliable, a good breeder will be able to make a solid prediction about
Amer Red Cross Pet First Aid Instructor
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which puppy is most likely to have the personality that will match your lifestyle and
Teaching Experience www.trainingforanimals.com
goals. So rather than getting emotionally attached to a puppy during a visit that will
I believe that training should bring a smile to your face & a wag to your tail. I will never use
not be suited to your needs, you will get a puppy that will blend well with you and
force or intimidation to train your dog. Positive reinforcement and up-to-date scientifically
your lifestyle.
based behavior modification programs bring positive results and lasting change. Leea
If however, you are very knowledgeable about puppy behavior and know just what
Taiz you are looking for from past experiences, then you should be able to work with the
breeder to be more involved in the selection process and be given a choice between
a few different pups. The important thing is that you are working with a reputable
breeder who is doing this for the puppies well-being and the betterment of the breed,
Shepherd not to make money. Otherwise they may simply be selecting puppies for people
randomly with no thought about behavior and family needs because they dont want
to take the time to have people meeting the puppies. You should steer clear of those
people.
Kennel So it comes down to doing your homework:
Get as much information as possible about the breeder, get to know them as dog
lovers as well as business people
Get references from people who have taken pups from previous litters
Since 1972
Positive Reinforcement Dog Training Ask exactly how the breeder test the puppies to make the selections. There are
some well documented tests like APET (Avidog's Puppy Evaluation Test) you can
check out
All Breed - All Ages
Go see their facility if possible (internet photos can be deceiving)
Dont be afraid to ask questions, if they have nothing to hide they will not be put
Specializing in the behavior and transition
Read the contract carefully, it will give you a very good idea of how much the
Training & Certification for
breeder cares about making money vs. successfully homing their puppies for life.
Therapy Dogs International
There are still many breeders that allow you to select your puppy so if you are not
comfortable having someone do it for you, keep searching for a qualified breeder
Home of:
My Dog
prints, but the trail they leave is quite distinguishable. Fox and coyote dont waste
T
their movements, and do not drag their feet. They walk with purpose in a straight
line.
Artist
Had I not learned that the curious-looking Star-nosed Mole is an accomplished
is an
swimmer, I would probably never have seen one. Finding mole tracks is rare
since they spend most of their time underground. But knowing that the Star-
nosed Mole swims well, and has a penchant for the tasty larvae of aquatic in-
sects, I was fortunate to see one swimming under a thin layer of ice on a pond.
Amazing!
Next time you walk your dog after a snowfall, take a close look at his footprints.
Then watch the way your dog moves, and see where each of his feet land on the
next step. Most canine experts say if you see three feet on the ground at the same
time, you dog is walking. According to the American Kennel Club, an amble is
a relaxed and easy gait in which the legs on either site move almost, but not quite,
as a pair (two legs on one side are lifted while the other two stay on the ground).
Im thinking Loki is an ambling foot dragger, but his tracks in the snow seem
Without ever attending the Rhode Island School of like art to me, much like a decorative Greek border known as a meander or me-
imprints on the art world. Well, actually, the imprints Fran Martino is the sole proprietor of River Haggie Outdoors, a Woman-owned
he leaves are his footprints.
Business Enterprise certified with New York State Department of Economic
Development. She is self-employed as an environmental educator, and serves as
the education and outreach coordinator for the Greater Stockport Creek Water-
shed whose mission is to explore, understand, and protect the watershed
The winter months bring the opportunity to discover the joy of finding animal ecosystem through community involvement and stewardship
tracks in the snow. It can be easy to spend an entire day investigating tracks for, (See: www.stockportwatershed.org).
you see, its not just about the shape and size of a paw print. Its more than tuck-
ing your Peterson Field Guide to Animal Tracks in the pocket of your parka. An-
imal tracks are a story unfolding.
Most of the snowfall we receive in New York State is that heavy, wet snow that
makes shoveling your driveway feel like six hours at the gym. Its not the best
snow for snowshoeing especially if you forgot to spray some non-stick cooking
spray on the metal cramp-ons of your snowshoes to prevent giant snowball
clumps from accumulating under your foot. It is, however, the best snow for an-
imal tracking particularly when the snowfall is light, from 1 to 4 inches.
If you are new to tracking animals, I hope you wont run out and sign up for a
class that will teach you about micro and macro pressure releases. Do you re-
ally need to know how to track at the level of an individual grain of sand; or be-
come educated in knowing that the person walking on the trail in front of you
needs to empty his bladder? Lets just learn the basics about what animals are in
the area, and come up with our own interpretation of their story.
Begin by learning some of the animals that may be visiting your own backyard.
After a freshly-fallen snow, explore your yard for footprints. Could it be the
neighbors cat, or a bobcat? Wait, maybe it isnt a cat at all, but a coyote! Or your
other neighbors black lab?
member of the Richmond-West Stockbridge Artist Guild. wires that connect to a brushed-silver colored
When it seemed the task of organizing the project was more rail system that attaches along the top of the walls. Rudi did
than the shelter was anticipating it was suggested that a col- an excellent job of installing into the cinderblock surfaces of
laboration with an arts organization might be a good solution. the shelter walls.
The Richmond-West Stockbridge Artist Guild President In March 2017 Keith, Karen, Guild Secretary Doane Perry
Karen Carmean and Keith met with John and Mary and found and Guild board member Bill Graulty installed over 75 pieces
that the Humane Society and the Art Guild were a good fit. of art from members of the Richmond-West Stockbridge
The Humane Society had space and a desire to create a Artist Guild www.rwsag.org
changing environment in the Shelter. The Art Guild, with over The shelter now has almost 120 linear feet of art hanging ca-
100 artists has been placing art in locations through their Art pability featuring art of animals, nature, wild life and land-
'Round Town program. The Art Guild's mission, with its scape. The installation of the hanging system is being funded
newly acquired status as a 501(c)3, Not for Profit, is for edu- with a grant from the Appelbaum-Kahn Foundation. The
cational and charitable purposes, promoting art through out- Richmond-West Stockbridge Artist Guild will curate the space
reach and engagement. with shows changing every three months. The art is for sale
Together the the Berkshire Humane Society and the Rich- with a portion of the receipts going to the shelter. A grand
mond-West Stockbridge Artist Guild very quickly put together opening reception is planned for April 28th from 5:30 to 8pm.
a plan to hang art at the shelter. Membership to the Guild is $40 and applications can found
The hanging system was researched and selected by Guild on their website under "Join us." There is no additional fee to
member and Vice President Anne Auberjonois and the instal- be included in upcoming shows.
lation was handled by Rudi Bach of www.movingartco.com Keith Emerling
grooming
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10 Animal Life March 2017 animallifeonline.com
B
Barn Hunters - Rat Wranglers
Vermin hunting has its historical roots in
eliminating wild rats that were known to spread
deadly disease, from farms, homes
and battlegrounds.
Barn Hunt founder, Robin Nuttall, along with her Miniature Pinscher, Zipper, encouraging the team from outside the ring! Three passes, and the team has gained
wanted to participate in a dog sport that would use her dogs natural vermin hunt- a title of Novice (RATN).
ing instinct. At the time, Min Pins were not accepted into the AKC Earthdog From there, more tubes are added as the levels progress, culminating in the Mas-
competitions, so she devised a sport built on the in- ters level where there can be one to five rats hidden in an
formal Brush/Barn Hunt activities often piggy- ever more complex maze. Handlers at this advanced level
backed on the Earthdog events. Vermin hunting has must know when their canine partner has found all the rats
its historical roots in eliminating wild rats that were and call clear.
known to spread deadly disease, from farms, homes The safety and well-being of the rats are paramount. They
and battlegrounds. Originally mostly small dogs are often well-loved pets of the Rat Wrangler who over-
such as terriers and small hounds, almost any dog sees their handling and care during the trial, making sure
can be a vermin hunter. Responsible breeders often they are swapped out at regular intervals for food, water, rest
want to ensure that dogs they plan to breed have the and relaxation. These rats have been bred and conditioned
correct working temperament for the breed. Barn to be at ease with their interaction with the dogs. Some of
Hunt is one tool breeders might use to evaluate a them even taunt the dogs from within the tube! During the
dogs working drive. But for most Barn Hunters, competition, there is at least one person in the search area
its just a really fun way to spend time with your who is tasked with protecting the rat and handing it off to
dog! another wrangler outside the ring.
Barn hunt has become one of the fastest growing The Great Barrington Kennel Club has been accepted as an
dog sports in the U.S., welcoming dogs of any size, official Barn Hunt Club. In order to hold a formal trial, a
breed, or mix who can fit through an 18" wide by newly formed club must first hold a Fun Trial, which is
bale-height tall tunnel. There are progressive levels scheduled for May 21 at the 4H Fairgrounds off Holmes
in Barn Hunt, starting with Instinct, and moving up Road in Pittsfield. Anyone over the age of 9 can enter a Fun
to Masters. After that, teams can go on to achieve Trial. Because of the limited space, it is an ideal venue for
advanced championship titles. Titles are recognized older dogs and handlers. A Barn Hunt registration number
by both AKC and UKC. is not required. GBKCs Fun Trial will allow treating to
Dogs and handlers begin by assessing the dogs reward the dog for finding the rat, which formal trials do not.
ability to discern and indicate -- which of three
tubes (sturdy dog-proof ventilated PVC cylinders
large enough for the rats to move and turn around)
Clumber earned her Barn Hunt Open title (RATO). She's
contains the actual rat as opposed to the empty one officially UKC Ch / AKC GCh Millerwood's Court Hill
or the one with rat litter within the specified time. If Delilah TD NW1 RATO.
the handler erroneously calls the rat found, the
judge will record the fail.
The next levels goal is to find the tube with the rat in a maze of hay or straw
bales, to do a climb where all 4 feet are on the bale, and go through the tunnel
created in the maze. The task for the handler is to help guide his/her dog through Registration forms can be found in the calendar section of the Barn Hunt
the course, and to know when the dog has found the rat! This is actually the website (www.BarnHunt.com). For questions or further
hardest part to tell when your dog has found the rat, and to do it within the time information, please contact Sally Underwood-Miller 413-298-3411
limit. If the team succeeds in finding the rat, climbing on the bale and negotiat- or SUnderwoodMiller@aol.com.
ing the tunnel(s) within the allowed time, the team passes. Most judges have an
engaging sense of humor, and spectators often hold their breath, mentally
I was brought to the Berkshire Humane Society be ecause I really want to be an only
cat. I want to be the Prince! I am looking for a hoome that will appreciate my goofy
antics. The staff sometimes refers to me as the most interesting cat in the world. I
love to lounge on my wave scratc herr, climb up to high spots and, even though Im
5, I can play with the best of them. I get quite rambunctious when playing actually y,,
so maybe I shouldnt live with young c hildren. I do
o not need constant attention, but I
would love to be your tv snuggle buddy in the evvenings.
FOR MORE
FOR MORE INFORMA
INFORMA
MATTION,
ION, PPLEASE
LEASE C
CALL
ALL 413-717-4244
413-717-4244
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At the
Adoptions
Eleanor Sonsini Animal Shelter
Clarice
Clarice is still patiently waiting for her forever home.
She is a 3-4 year old American Fox Hound! Foxhounds
make great pets for active individuals, families, expe-
rienced dog handlers, people living alone, and those
who enjoy the outdoors. She loves her crate and since
coming here she's almost completely potty trained.
Clarice will need someone who truly understands
hound dogs and their behaviors.. Stop down and meet
her today!
in the tri-state area Sponsored by:
Merrill Road,
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info@berkshiremm.com
At the At the
Eleanor Sonsini Animal Shelter Berkshire Humane Society
Diesel
Diesel came to us along with 2 other dogs, after the
Alpha
Hi! I am Alpha. I am an independent thinker. I know sev-
house she was living in was declared UN-livable. eral commands, but I have a stubborn side that kicks in
Despite everything she's been through Diesel is filled and I pretend that I don't understand what you are asking
with love, noting brings her down! Every time you go in of me. I have been an only pet before my owners had to
move to no pet housing. I I will be neutered soon and this
her kennel this sweet girl is over come with joy and
may help to alleviate some of the urge to make my mark.
zoomies! We are looking for a home with experienced I would do best in a home with older teens to adults. I
bully breed owners that can show Diesel the world and tested Lyme positive and I am on antibiotics to reduce the
understand the tole the first few years of her life have virus in my system. I am only moderately interested in
taken. This special girls needs a special home! toys. I ride well in the car. I hope to meet and get settled
in my new home soon!
Sponsored by:
Locations throughout
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At the
Berkshire Humane Society
Princess Meet
Yes, I feel like I need to be treated like a princess.I may
be over six years, but I am pretty active. I will need
walks and playtime to burn off some of my energy! I will
need regular grooming to keep my hair looking pretty. I
would do best as an only pet as any princess would
Lolli D
request all of your time and attention to be doted on roy-
ally. May you open your kingdom to me to bestow my Lolli is a big, beautiful show dog
love, wags, and kisses for you as my royal subjects!
(winner) who needs the perfect
Sponsored by: home because she too is perfect.
Lolli is sweet with children other
36 Pittsfield Road dogs and cats. She is spayed, UTD
Lenox, MA in shots, housebroken and loves hik-
ycc01240@aol.com
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ship. She is in good health and very
At the
active for a ten year old retired
show-girl. Her current caretakers are
Eleanor Sonsini Animal Shelter heart broken but must give her up
due to their medical problems.
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Nora Hayes 413-528-0877
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grooming
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PO Box 1073, Pittsfield
413-300-0052
admin@berkshireanimaldreams.org
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Corrine McKeown, Director
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Animal Life r March 2017 animallifeonline.com 19
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