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3 | PUPSUNITE.ORG Publisher Carolyn Hayes Designer Myra Stacey PrintandWebDesigner.com Cover Photo by Gracen Graham pupsunite.org Disclaimer: PUPS will not be held responsible for any article or story content provided to us by a freelance or contributing writer. All articles, stories, and photos are freely given contributions. No portion of this magazine may be reprinted without written permission from the publisher. PUPS, PO Box 49 Tremont City, OH 45372 pupsdigest@gmail.com pupsunite.org Message from Board.................................................................................... 2 Doris Day Animal Foundation.......................................................................4 Community Cat............................................................................................. 6 PUPS People.................................................................................................7 Navigating the Golden Years with Preventive Pet Care. .............................. 8 CAIN: Turning Fear to Trust: ...................................................................... 10 What to Do About Cain. ................................................................... 11 Dot’s Connection Scarlett’s Gift. ................................................................................... 12 My Boy Louis .................................................................................... 13 2023 Autumn Leaves Pictorial. ..................................................................14 PUP Stats....................................................................................................16 Hidden Picture............................................................................................17 One Unspayed Cat Chart............................................................................19 in thisissue messagefrom the board Board picture left to right: Dave and Dottie Smiddy; Judy Benning; Stacey Picolo; Susan Pike. As pictured on this publication’s cover is Cain. He’s a dog that came to us after his owner passed away. He was quite a troubled dog and when he was at veterinarian’s clinic to be neutered, it took three vet techs to hold him down as he was so scared. Fortunately, after many trials, he found a resting place at his foster home. We think you will enjoy reading the articles about Cain. In 2023, the Group’s “Autumn Leaves” had another successful year. And that’s to the thanks of Board President Susan and her husband Andy. “Autumn Leaves” is a fun event, and everyone looks forward to it every year. This year it’s the “13th Annual Autumn Leaves” to be held at the Springfield Country Club, 10am, Saturday, October 12, 2024. Mark your calendar to attend. Tickets are still at $25 unless there comes an unforeseen expenditure that we have no control over. Hopefully, Dottie and Dave will recover from ongoing health issues. Dottie had to undergo a few surgeries and continues to improve. She knows that she cannot take on any more with rescuing, fostering and TNR kitties. She has assigned a few ladies to help her with fostering which is excellent. They all make a great team for the benefit of the kitties. Thanks to Linda Clare for her editing of Cain’s story and the Doris Day Animal Foundation for their help with a neuter/spay grant that will hopefully see us through until our fundraiser in October. In addition, we’ve noticed that the Ohio Pet Fund added the feature of motorcycle plates. It’s great that they continue to spread the word of the wonderful help they give our furry friends through their grants to various nonprofit animal groups throughout Ohio. It’s also great to see the pet-themed, hidden picture by Liz Ball. Those always bring fun to every issue of our publication. 2024
PUPSUNITE.ORG | 4 Carries on its Founder’s Legacy Legendary singer/actress/animal welfare advocate Doris Day died in 2019, but her charity is making sure her work lives on. Known for her prolific music career of over 600 recordings, including Academy Award-winning hits “Secret Love” and “Whatever Will Be, Will Be (Que Sera, Sera),” and recognized as the Top Female Box Office Star, appearing in 39 films in the 50’s and 60’s, such as the ever-popular Calamity Jane and Pillow Talk, Day’s heart’s passion was her love for animals. Following her illustrious Hollywood career, which also encompassed her own radio show in the early 50’s and a 5-year run of the hit CBS TV series, The Doris Day Show (19681973), she relocated to Carmel, California in the late 70’s and devoted the second part of her life to her pioneering animal welfare work. Here she also hosted her mid-1980’s Doris Day’s Best Friends cable series, which welcomed celebrity guest stars and focused on animal-related issues. As a founding member and one-time vice president of Actors and Others for Animals, Doris Day was among the first to spread the importance of spay/neuter in the early 70’s, when an estimated 17 million homeless pets were being euthanized in overcrowded shelters. Wanting to do more, she founded her own non-profit Doris Day Pet Foundation in 1978, focusing on finding homes for the many animals that were being destroyed simply because there weren’t enough good homes and continuing to advocate for spaying and neutering. In addition to fostering animals at her house, she was leasing kennel space, providing for veterinary care, and finding loving forever homes, with the help of dedicated volunteers. Over the years, the organization has evolved into today’s Doris Day Animal Foundation, a national grant-giving charity that funds other 501(c)3 animal welfare organizations and programs across the country that directly help animals and the people who love them. Some of DDAF’s ongoing project funding includes spay/neuter, food, medical care, Duffy Day Life Saving Program, the Doris Day/Terry Melcher Scholarship for shelter medicine students, service dogs for veterans, wildlife sanctuaries and disaster emergency relief, among many others. In 2023, DDAF provided funding to local organizations on the frontlines of the devastating Maui fires to help rescue and care for displaced animals until they could be reunited with their families or returned to the wild. Since 2013, DDAF has supported Pets Uniting People Society (PUPS) in their spay/neuter efforts. “With many shelters becoming critically overcrowded again, it’s important now more than ever to keep the homeless pet population down,” said Lea Price, DDAF’s Director of Communications. “PUPS’ lowcost spay/neuter and TNR programs are an integral part of the community, and we are happy to help.” As DDAF begins its 46th year, its longtime staff is dedicated to carrying on Doris Day’s legacy of making this a better world for the animals long into the future.
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7 | PUPSUNITE.ORG 2023 VOLUNTEERS of the year (L to R) Jodi Patton, Phyllis Monroe, Debra Smith, and PUPS’ Dottie Smiddy In the heart of Pets Uniting People Society’s compassionate mission, three volunteers stand out for their unwavering dedication and love for animals: Jodi Patton, Phyllis Monroe, and Debra Smith. Each brings a unique blend of passion and expertise to PUPS. Their empathetic approach to animal welfare, knowledge, and dynamic energy have been instrumental in advancing PUPS’s mission. Their contributions reflect the essence of volunteerism—selfless service for improving animal lives, making them truly deserving of the title ‘Volunteers of the Year.’ These young children have been taught how important it is to care for the lives of pets. With their birthday money, they wanted to give to “Dot’s Connection” for the care and wellbeing of little kittens. What a great way for youth to show how much they care and want to make a difference. YOUNG HEARTS BIG IMPACT • Gina Barron • Shelley Clemens • Jan Mc Owen White • Keri Rider • Linda Reed • Tanya Stewart • Terri Deane • Cassy Davis • Rebecca Griffith KITTEN FOSTERS people
PUPSUNITE.ORG | 8 As dog and cat lovers, we all want our pets to live long and healthy lives. Fortunately, the latest advances in medicine and technology are helping make that possible. As pets age, their healthcare needs evolve, requiring vigilant attention to ensure a happy and healthy life. Preventive screenings play a crucial role in maintaining the well-being of aging pets, allowing veterinarians to detect and address potential issues before they become more serious. The foundation of preventative care starts with an annual exam with your veterinarian. Older pets are more likely to develop a wide variety of diseases. Because of this, we recommend Routine preventive screenings beginning at age 7 years. These screenings involve a comprehensive examination of the pet’s overall health, focusing on early detection and intervention. In both dogs and cats, we run bloodwork and a urinalysis in addition to their annual fecal exam, plus an annual heart worm/tick borne screening for dogs. These tests are performed to evaluate red blood cell count, white blood cell count, biochemistry profile, thyroid and urine. Performing these tests help detect diseases like diabetes, renal disease, liver disease and hypo/hyperthyroidism as early as possible. If test results are normal, they serve as a great baseline to compare to when your pet does get sick. With changes in biochemical parameters, imaging such as radiographs and ultrasonography/echocardiogram become important to further identify the cause and best treatment disease. As with metabolic and endocrine disease, the early detection of cancers in pets is also something that your pet’s care team is committed to helping with. Through advances in DNA testing options, there are ways to analyze NAVIGATING the Golden Years with Preventive Pet Care
9 | PUPSUNITE.ORG urine and blood for cancers before traditional imaging would indicate these changes. DNA testing of urine and/or blood can be especially helpful if you know your pet’s family history of cancer or if it a breed that is particularly predisposed to cancer. Owners also play an important part in keeping their pets healthy and happy in their golden years. From nose to tail, veterinarians need owners’ help to watch for changes in vision, dental health, coat, limping, or behavioral changes to best identify the source of any health concern. It is also very important that owners watch for changes in activity or appetite, and the development of skin tumors, all of which need to be evaluated. Furthermore, one of the most important parts of our older pet’s routine is keeping them active. An active pet is more likely to keep strong muscles as they age which is important for cardiac and orthopedic processes. Walking with your pet is a great activity for both the owner and the pet! To help arthritic pets keep moving their best, veterinarians offer a wide variety of non-invasive therapy options to help control pain including laser therapy, pulse wave therapy, and underwater treadmill therapy, all of which can be used in conjunction monthly injectable medications and oral medications. The old saying is that “getting old isn’t for the faint of heart.” While we can expect some health concerns as our pets age, if we are prepared with good preventative medicine as well as budgeting for potential increased cost of care, we can be prepared to provide our older pet with exceptional quality of life. As costs continue to rise in our daily lives, pet care expenses can be unexpected and challenging. We encourage pet families to explore the option of pet insurance to help prepare for costs of care. Working with your veterinarian to formulate an individualized care plan for each pet’s unique aging needs, I am confident the golden pet years can be pawsome! About the author- The veterinary team at Northside Veterinary Clinic in Springfield, OH submitted this article. We are proud to be a member of the American Association of Animal Hospitals and we provide all the services detailed in this article and much more for pets of all ages. Please contact us at 937-399-1121.
PUPSUNITE.ORG | 10 Working with dogs brings immense joy and fulfillment, but when faced with a large, fearful, and potentially aggressive dog, it’s not for the faint-hearted. Dog trainers and animal behavior consultants face unique challenges when dealing with these complex cases, requiring delicate balance of expertise, empathy, and strategic planning to address the root causes of aggression and fear. The journey is a rollercoaster of emotions, filled with struggles and joys that unfold as we strive to build trust and create a positive environment for these vulnerable animals. Large dogs, by virtue of their size and strength, pose inherent risks when exhibiting challenging behaviors like aggression, often requiring a carefully crafted dance between a skilled trainer and their four-legged pupil. Only a qualified animal behavior professional possesses an understanding deep enough to decipher the nuanced language of dogs, a pivotal aspect of designing effective intervention strategies. The kennel personnel involved in Cain’s care knew it was time to call in someone with the proper expertise and education after Cain resorted to aggression as a defense mechanism. I met Cain shortly after his beloved owner passed away, and he found himself living in a kennel. Initially called to offer insight into how to handle Cain, I quickly found myself collaborating with many others to save this misunderstood dog. If there was any chance of a successful intervention, I needed to understand the context in which the aggression occurred. Using an interdisciplinary approach of ethology, psychology, anthrozoology, and cognitive sciences, I employed a systematic assessment and meticulously gathered data of Cain’s behavior while establishing a form of trust. Building a bond requires time, patience, and a deep understanding of their individual triggers, but I found myself working against time and a unique set of challenges, making this a very delicate process. Identifying the root cause of Cain’s behavioral problems was easy. What many had thought to be aggression with intent to harm was really just a scared dog exhibiting signs of distress, such as cowering, trembling, and wanting to avoid conflict. This insight allowed me to impart knowledge of body language and handling techniques of a dog experiencing high levels of stress so we could start to foster an environment in which Cain felt more CAIN Turning Fear to Trust: The Journey of Cain, a Misunderstood Dog By Gracen Graham CPDT-KA, Fear Free Certified Professional
11 | PUPSUNITE.ORG at ease. However, the close proximity to other dogs, the echoing sounds, the lack of personal space and inadequate resources made it impossible to give Cain the feeling of safety he needed to start improving. We knew getting him into a foster home would be integral to achieving long-term success. Thanks to the kindness of one family we were able to pull him from the kennel and can now ensure consistent implementation of targeted strategies, promote an enriching environment, and continuously monitor progress; making adjustments to our behavior modification and training plan as needed. Despite the challenges, the joys of working with fearful dogs are deeply rewarding. Witnessing firsthand the transformative power of a behavior modification plan as a once-frightened dog gradually opens up and displays moments of trust is a triumph that resonates with the heart. As Cain’s trust in us grew, we watched him begin to seek comfort in human interaction, often found sitting on his foster family’s lap for pets any chance he gets. He is now engaging in play and enjoys playing fetch with a ball or running around the family’s spacious horse barn. Cain has been introduced to a few people, and horses and is acclimating to his foster family’s existing group of aussies. These breakthrough moments remind us of the impact of patience and compassion on a dog’s emotional well-being. Building a bond with these dogs is truly a testament to the resilience of both the animals and the dedicated individuals working with them. We will continue to work with Cain while he is in his foster home and use his story to empower others! What to Do About Cain By Carolyn Hayes Sometimes a troubled pup just needs a friend. Cain, a two-year-old Mastiff-Rottweiler mix, was grieving and confused. His owner had passed away in November, leaving Cain bereft. He’d lived with his owner since puppyhood and Cain knew his person loved him with all his heart. The owner’s daughter did her best to take over, driving miles twice a day to feed, water and tend to Cain’s needs. She couldn’t take Cain to her home due to an older dog and fear of Cain’s possible aggression since he wasn’t neutered. But with all the travel and expense, the daughter became exhausted, and Cain seemed to sink lower into depression. That’s when Pets Uniting People Society (PUPS) stepped in. Thanks to the Doris Day Animal Foundation, Cain was neutered and given the necessary vaccines needed to go to a rescue or kennel until a foster could be found. Sadly, Cain landed in a local kennel, which only heightened his anxiety. Fortunately, after a visit from Dog Trainer Gracen Graham, Contiguous Canine, she recommended that a veterinarian check Cain for a few medical issues and then find him an ideal place where he could be safe and available for training. After a week in the kennel, a safe but unusual foster was finally found. Cain was transferred to a horse farm, where he befriended a horse named Maggie. The changes he has made so far have been amazing and he seems to love his new environment. Cain’s first encounter was with Maggie the horse, his new bestie. Maggie’s eyes are big as saucers, but not from surprise or fright--they’re always like that according to her owner. Maggie seems to enjoy Cain too, and he fits right in with the sights and sounds of the farm. Once a week Cain will be going through training to prepare him for his forever home. He’s progressing nicely and only needs a few more sessions before he will be cleared for adoption. The horse farm may never replace Cain’s old owner, but this lucky dog’s foster home may well become his adoptive home. The family and all the critters seem to have bonded with him. It all comes down to raising Cain and that makes everyone very happy!
PUPSUNITE.ORG | 12 Scarlett’s Gift: A Tale of Maternal Love and Marmalade’s Brave New World In animal rescue, you often hear stories that start out really sad but then turn into something beautiful and hopeful. That’s exactly what happened with Scarlett, a young cat who had a tough time. She had just had kittens on a lady’s porch, but sadly, none of them made it. Scarlett was so sad, her cries could break your heart. That’s when Becky came in. She’s awesome at taking care of animals and always wants to help. She saw that Scarlett needed some care and a family who would love her forever. They were all set to get Scarlett ready for a new home. But then, something unexpected happened the next day that changed everything. A little kitten, all alone and hurt, was found. She had a really bad injury on her paw. They decided to let Scarlett meet this kitten. It was amazing how Scarlett just knew what to do. She started looking after the kitten, who they named Marmalade, like she was her own baby. Scarlett’s love made all the difference for Marmalade. Now, Marmalade is 8 weeks old and doing great, thanks to Scarlett’s care. Scarlett, who’s been like With “Dot’s Connection” I have the honor of working with so many fosters in the Pets Uniting People Society (PUPS) circle that I wanted to thank them all and those whom I will be adding in the new year. It’s been an amazing experience! the best mom to Marmalade, is ready to find her forever home. Marmalade still has to go to the vet to see what can be done about her paw. She might have to live without one of her feet or maybe even have part of her leg removed. This whole story, starting with such a sad beginning, turned into something really touching. It shows just how powerful love and care can be, and it’s a reminder of how amazing animals are. Scarlett and Marmalade’s story isn’t just about them; it’s about hope, love, and new starts. By Dottie Smiddy
13 | PUPSUNITE.ORG My Boy Louis By Linda Rudawski After my wonderful Aussie dog passed away suddenly, I never thought my heart would stop aching. But then Dottie Smiddy (a remarkable human mama who brings feral kittens to good health ready for adoption) posted an image of Louis with both eyes extremely infected on her Facebook page. I could not stop thinking of Louis. I had already adopted Edna Mae, my beautiful one-eyed cat who I also got from Dottie, had raised a one-eyed three-legged dog, plus I worked with persons with disabilities for years, so that image of Louis just called out my name. Louis’ eyes were eventually removed when he weighed enough, and he came to life! I contacted Dottie and said Edna Mae and I want Louis to join our family. When I brought Louis home, Edna Mae did NOT want Louis there, so she began hissing and growling at that poor little boy. But Louis’ response was quiet - saying I just want to play. Lessons by Jackson Galaxy (the Cat Daddy on You Tube) became my go-to. I put a screen door with a zipper in it in the doorway to my office/sewing room and converted it into a safe early intervention space for Louis. It took one month before Edna Mae decided Louis was not the enemy. During that time, I would also put Edna Mae in a closed space and let Louis explore “Map” the rest of the house – I especially wanted him to know how to get back to his safe room if he felt nervous with Edna Mae. Equipped with a spray bottle and a broom, and although I felt like I was throwing a lamb to the wolves, I opened that zipper and took Louis out to the Living Room with Edna Mae watching. It turned out that Edna Mae was all talk…she continued hissing a bit, but she has never hurt Louis to this day. Actually, it went from Edna Mae “Be gentle with Louis” to “Louis be gentle with Edna Mae” Now they wrestle, run throughout the house, and clean each other. I soon realized Louis is a kitten who happens to be blind. So, my goal became: Make my home safe, introduce changes to Louis, and let him have at it. He needed to just be an ornery kitten. And believe me he is! Initially, his litter box, food and water were in his room that I called “Louisville” – I did not move them at any point while in there. I have a worrisome stairway to the basement, and I wanted his litter box down there. Because they were open behind the treads and on the sides, I mounted garden fence under and on the sides and carpet step runners on the treads. I went down the steps on my knees backward, facing him, and guided him down one step at a time, saying “step” – in ONE DAY, he began running up and down those steps and used his litter box down there immediately. I physically assisted Louis in jumping down from objects that were about 2 feet high, I gave verbal cues including saying “jump” while doing that. Now if he has managed to get himself up high enough where he cannot tell how high up he is, I just say “It’s OK you can jump from there” while I knock on the floor and he jumps. Louis likes to feel walls and door frames, he remembers and smells paths he left on the floor with the oil on his paws, so I try to move furniture unless necessary. If I do need to, I show him and let him poke around the area to become familiar. Louis and Edna Mae get treats tossed to each of them. Louis knows that ones that go “over there” to Edna Mae are not his, so he does not go after those. But with his…he runs and swoops them with his front leg like he can see them. When he cannot locate one and starts to find it, he listens to my hints, no, no, no, when going in the wrong direction, then YES! when he got close and nibbles it right up. I believe Louis thinks everyone is blind. His use of his other senses is remarkable. He is my brave, extremely loving, and wonderfully ornery little boy.
PUPSUNITE.ORG | 14 2023 Leaves Autumn Photographer Bonnie Pugliese
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