Carolina Tails Magazine - Charleston Animal Society - Spring 2015

TAILSCAROLINA

SPRING 2015

A Charleston Animal Society Publication

State of Neglect?South Carolina Horses

Kitten InvasionHow You Can Help

Sssssnakes!6 to Watch For

No Kill South CarolinaA New Initiative

PET ERWe take you inside.

SPRING 2015 | CAROLINA TAILS 1

2 CAROLINA TAILS | SPRING 2015



ContentsSPRING 2015TAILS

CAROLINA

Publisher: Keith SimmonsEditor-in-Chief: Dan KrosseManaging Editor: Joe ElmoreGraphic Design: Heineman DesignAdvertising Director: Lila K. Cloar,[email protected]: Ellie Whitcomb Payne, Teri Errico,Claire Roberson, Helen Ravenel Hammond,Dr. Anna Vecchione, Dan KrossePhotographers: Reese Moore, Jason BennettPaul Mulkey, Ellie Whitcomb-Payne, Michael MulliganDistribution Manager: Denise FletcherContributor: Kay Hyman

For inquiries regarding advertising, distribution or suggestions in Carolina Tails call (843) 352-9048 or [email protected].

2455 Remount Road, North Charleston, SC 29406(843) 747-4849

President: Elizabeth BradhamVice President: Julie BresnanVice President: Ann Long MerckVice President: Matt Watson, CPA, CVASecretary: Perry Jameson, DVMTreasurer: Hilton Smith, III

Members of the Board

Chief Executive Officer: Joe ElmoreMedia & Marketing Consultant:dpk media solutions

Please contact regarding Carolina Tails distribution,advertising or suggestions. For all other inquiries,please contact Charleston Animal Society.

(843) 352-9048 [email protected]

Carolina Tails is published quarterly by Traveler Communications Group,an independent publishing company. PO Box 22677, Charleston, SC 29413(843 352-9048). Carolina Tails is a registered trademark of Traveler Communications Group. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or inpart without the express written permission of the publisher is prohibited.

Hal Creel, Esq.John CawleyJohnny MaybankTara GerardiBob RifeElliott SummeyJeff WebsterMeg PhillipsEllen HarleyAussie GeerTami Zerbst

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Kiara BarnettMary BlackJoe Waring, Esq.Sarah Hamlin Hastings Cynthia HayesAndrea FergusonHelen Pratt-ThomasEugenia BurtschyNancy WorshamBritton M. Hawk, Esq.Gerri GreenwoodDean Riegel 16

5 Welcome

6 Pet Pointers

10 State of Neglect:How are SC Horses?

14 6 Snakes to Avoid

15 Garden Alert:Could Your Plants Harm Pets?

16 One Night in the Pet ER

20 Pet Owners’ Tough Choices:Life or Death Decisions

22 The Kitten Invasion

24 Reading Between the Claws:A Tale of Forgiveness

26 Sanctuary Havens

28 Analyzing the Jumps

30 No Kill South Carolina

32 Ask the Trainer

36 Pet Heroes:Frequent Flyer

37 Around Town

38 Kid’s Zone

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DEAR FRIENDS,

If you have been a reader of Carolina Tails since ourfirst issue almost a year ago, I hope you can appreciatehow our magazine has grown! Our spring issue

tackles some seasonal problems that we run into everyyear, spring plants that are potentially poisonous topets and the annual kitten season, when the feline birthrate in the Lowcountry peaks and we are inundatedwith kittens. We always need foster parents, particularlyat this time of year, so we hope that you and your familywill consider becoming kitten foster parents this year.

Our cover story this quarter focuses on equine crueltyand the state of horses around South Carolina. Led byone of our fearless board members, Ellen Harley, weintend to expand our efforts regarding equine welfare –which we have been doing for more than 100 years. Fortoo long, these beautiful creatures have not had adequateprotections or enforcement, a situation which shouldno longer exist in our society. We will keep you postedas to our progress, so please stay tuned!

As you know, Charleston Animal Society has a strongethic of working with other animal welfare organizationsin our community and elsewhere. Our goal is to takecare of every animal possible, and we rely on outstandingpartners such as Hallie Hill Animal Sanctuary andFeline Freedom Coalition. My three running coaches --Henry, Hannah and Eugenie - are all graduates of HallieHill in Hollywood, SC. Who needs a gym when youhave this trio keeping you on the run- literally!!!

And I would like to close by thanking, our Pet Heroine,Jennifer Whitworth. Jennifer is an education volunteerwho flies from Seattle to Charleston once per month, ather own expense, to continue to teach humane educationfor Charleston Animal Society. Who needs inspirationwhen you have Jennifer as a role model!

So enough time at the desk - my canine coaches areready to pound the pavement!

With kind regards,

Welcome

Elizabeth Bradham, President, Charleston Animal Society

Kitten season is upon us and CharlestonAnimal Society needs your help. Learnmore about fostering these kittens untilthey can be adopted (Pg. 22).

Phot

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: Ree

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PET POINTERSSPRINGNews Tidbits

NEWS:: You Can Use

Hacking up a few facts about cats and hairballs We couldn’t let April 25th slide by and not give a shout out to National CatHairball Day! (We’re not joking).

That sandpaper tongue of your cat licks up hair while grooming and passesit all the way through the digestive tract. Usually, with no problems. But whenthe buildup of hair gets to be too much, up it comes in that awful, yucky, yetloveable hack, we call a hairball.

Local vets like Dr. Johnny Ohlandt have to remove hairballs surgically, when no amount of hacking can clear it. One time Ohlandt had to operate twotimes on an older cat. The long-term prognosis-- shave the cat. And it worked.

“Some cats are just wired to groom a lot,” said Ohlandt, “My cat is diabeticand three times a week, he throws up hairballs.”

Coughing up a hairball every now and then is nothing to worry about. However, ongoing vomiting or hacking with no hairball coming up is a causefor concern. Other clues to a potentially life-threatening blockage due to a hairball include lack of appetite, lethargy, constipation and diarrhea.

To help? Ohlandt suggests figuring out why your pet is grooming so much.It could be emotional or it could be a skin problem, or it could be absolutelynormal. The best advice is to keep your eye on your cat and don’t hesitate toget an expert opinion from your vet.

Snake Bite

■ If you are bitten, try to take a quick picture of the snake to show your doctor and immediately call 911.

■ If your pet is bitten, take a picture of the snake to show your veterinarian and immediately take your pet to your localvet or animal hospital.

■ If you or your furry friend is bitten, you can email a picture of the snake to Will Dillman at [email protected] for him to identify it or visit dnr.sc.gov/wildlife/herps/snakes.html for a complete list of snakes in South Carolina.

Kitten ICU Ready for Incoming Spring Litters

Incubators decorated in beautiful pastel colors. Mobiles hanging from the ceiling above a whiterocking chair. Soft music and lighting. If itsounds like the perfect nursery, well, it is – butthis one is for kittens.

The Jane and Jerry Acker Kitten Intensive Care Unit (ICU) is ready to go at Charleston Animal Society. A glass wall allows visitors tosee how neo-natal kittens are nursed back tohealth. “So many times, our life-saving effortsare done behind closed doors. We wanted a wayto share what we do with the public, and Janeand Jerry Acker’s generosity, along with all ofthe people who donated on last year’s Day ofGiving, helped make the Kitten ICU possible,”said Charleston Animal Society Senior Directorof Animal Services Pearl Sutton.

Eight custom-made kitten incubators line thewalls of the intensive care unit. As you will readon page 22, Charleston Animal Society rescuedmore than 2,500 kittens last year alone! “We callspring ‘Mount Kitty,’” Sutton said.

You and your family are invited to the officialribbon cutting ceremony for the Jane and JerryAcker Kitten ICU, followed by a Kitten FosterShower on Sunday, April 12th at 3pm atCharleston Animal Society (there is even a kitten registry that you can check out!) We hopeto see you there.

Dogs have about different facial expressions, most of themmade with the ears

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Spring Cleaning? We’ve Got a Great Idea.Nothing makes it cloud over on a beautiful Charleston Spring day like the thought of doing the spring-cleaning you’ve put off all winter! Well one way to get motivated is toplan on donating all of your extra stuff to Animal Helpers ReTAIL store at 1601 SavannahHighway in West Ashley.

The store itself is a bargain hunter’s paradise, with everything from electronics tohome furnishings. All of the store’s proceeds are split between Charleston Animal Societyand Pet Helpers. In 2014, each organization received $48,800.

While the ReTAIL store doesn’t want completely broken items, it can repair things that may need a little TLC, according to employee Steven Meyer, “We have a couple ofguys who do electrical and other repair work, especially on items like lamps.”

And if you have that couch you’re dreading hauling out to the curb, the ReTAIL storepicks up large furniture items every Tuesday and Wednesday. Call (843) 277-2010.Store hours are 10am – 6pm weekdays and 10am – 5pm on Saturday.

So spring clean without fear! Know that you will be helping one of the Lowcountry’shomeless animals – with every lift, carry and drop of sweat you make.

Who’s Going to Take Careof Her When You’re Gone?

Death is never something nice to thinkabout. But visit any shelter in America for one day and when you see bewildered animals coming in because their ownershave passed away, or entered hospice –that will get you thinking about mortality.It will also motivate you to plan ahead for your pet once you are gone.

Attorney Jessica Wentworth, withKuhn & Kuhn Law Firm, says more andmore people are setting up “pet trusts.”

In a nutshell, it’s a document that clarifies who you’ve designated as a care-taker for your animal when you depart, or become incapacitated. More important-ly, “a pet trust sets aside funding to insure your pet will continue to live in the lifestyle to which they’ve become accustomed,” Wentworth said.

Wentworth tells us people will manytimes assume a son or daughter will takethe pet in, if they were to pass away. Butwhat about when that child gets married,and a grandchild develops pet allergies?What then?

“We encourage people to make pettrusts a part of their comprehensive estateplanning,” Wentworth said, “Estate plan-ning covers who will take care of children,what happens to property; so it should also cover what will happen to your pet.”

Factors to Calculate Your Pet Trust1. Age of person 2. Age of pet3. Any more pets in future?4. What kind of pet (birds can live to 80!)

How Much to Set Aside?There is a simple formula to help

you calculate how much you may want to set aside. Calculate how much youspend a month on your pet (remembermedical costs) and then multiply by 12.Then multiply this calculation by the average number of years in your pet’s lifeexpectancy to determine how much youshould set aside.

Consultations at Kuhn & Kuhn Law Firm are free. (843) 577-3700 or www.kuhnandkuhn.com.

SPRING CLEANING TIPS:Getting started is always the hardest part of any spring-cleaning project. Experts say putting a plan down on paperbefore you just “dive in,” is always a good way to get going.Writing a plan down will help you monitor your progress andstay organized. Folks at Better Homes and Gardens remindeveryone to check these areas for clutter:• Junk Drawers• Medicine Cabinets• Garages• Closets• Storage areas: attics, basements, crawlspace• Outdoor areas


Inbox:: Reader Feedback

DEAR CAROLINA TAILS:“Reading Tim Scott’s article about how an adopted Rottweiler changed hisgrandfather’s life was something so many people could relate to. Thank youand the Senator for sharing this. One question, who was the Rottweiler in thepickup truck on the cover?” – Nick, Summerville

Editor’s Note: Hi Nick! Thank you for reading Carolina Tails. I’m glad youasked this, because we did mean to give Cello a big thank you! He is 10-years-oldand was adopted by Beth Wade and her family.

“Neuticles! I laughed so hard when I saw that in your magazine. It’s amazingpeople really do that.” – Anne, Mt. Pleasant

“Finally, a balanced article about coyotes. Usually the media blows the issueso out of proportion. Way to go Carolina Tails!” – Steve, McClellanville

“Thank you for Carolina Tails. I am so proud that the world’s smartest dog isfrom the Palmetto State.” – Richard, West Ashley

Pet FestAPRIL 11 & 1210am – 4pmPalmetto Island County ParkMt. PleasantPets and their owners are invited to joinCharleston County Parks for a full week-end of exhibits, demonstrations, experts,entertainment, and more at Charleston’spremiere pet festival! Pet Fest provides an opportunity for local pet-related organizations and businesses to showcasetheir causes, products and services in afun, animal-friendly environment. Leashedpets are welcome with their owners!

Lowcountry Giving DayMAY 512:01am – MidnightGive online at www.CharlestonAnimalSociety.org

Hosted by Coastal Community Founda-tion, Lowcountry Giving Day will takeplace on May 5, and involved more than180 nonprofits in nine counties along theSouth Carolina coast! Your donations toCharleston Animal Society this year willhelp us finish a beautiful dog park in frontof our building to help showcase our ani-mals who need adopted. Please rememberto help us #LiftTheLowcountry! Donationson May 5th need to all be made online, justvisit www.CharlestonAnimalSociety.org toget started!

Summer Kickoff Block PartyMAY 23Noon1440 Ben Sawyer BoulevardMt. Pleasant

Join Steel City Pizza and Triangle CharBar as they kickoff summer with their annual block party just 2 miles from thebeach! The event helps raise money forCharleston Animal Society and you canadopt your new best friend! Come on outand get ready for summer.

Event Calendar

BY DEIRDRE MAYS PHOTOGRAPHY BY JASON BENNETT

HORSESSouth

Carolina

A DISTURBING LOOK AT HOW SOUTHCAROLINA HORSES ARE TREATED

State ofNeglect

began with a sad, complicatedrescue of 11 horses in Charleston County. Charleston AnimalSociety staff and foster families worked tirelessly to find fostercare and help get the horses adopted. Police and prosecutors arestill investigating aspects of the case.

The case illustrates the disturbing fact that something as largeas an 11-hundred-pound horse can fall under the radar when itcomes to tracking cruelty and neglect.

Joanna Lacey knows the plight of horses all too well. She andher family are currently sharing their lives with 11 horses on theirRavenel farm. Three of those are recent fosters Charleston AnimalSociety rescued from the January neglect situation. Lacey hasalso rescued horses from an auction barn in New Jersey that weregoing to be shipped to Mexico for slaughter.

Even with her front line experience she believes that mostpeople don’t intend to harm these animals. “Most scenarios areprobably ‘I got in over my head andnow I have this horse that looks terribleand I have to sell it.”

Charleston Animal Society ChiefExecutive Officer Joe Elmore said theorganization has been rescuing equineand other farm animals for over acentury, and more work needs to bedone. “Early last year we had severalequine advocates approach us andsay there needs to be something inplace to find homes for horses at thesame rate as dogs and cats, and getthem adopted,” Elmore said.

While it is not as obvious a problemas that of cats or dogs, people involvedwith investigating and rescuingequines are concerned, and say moreawareness is needed.

Aldwin Roman is the Director ofAnti-Cruelty and Community Outreachfor Charleston Animal Society. Hesaid negligence involving a horse caninclude the failure to provide food,water and adequate shelter. Moreserious crimes include intentionallyharming a horse.

Elmore and Roman formed a workgroup that included a variety ofadvocates who began to study equinerescue and cruelty, working closely


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with the Humane Society of South Carolina in Columbia – leadersin the state for equine investigations. “We knew it was bleak butonce you leave Charleston County it plummets,” Elmore said ofhow horses are faring across South Carolina.

“The situation out there is just horrendous,” Roman said.“Speaking with other cruelty investigators in the state we arecoming across horses that are starving.”

Complicating the neglect is that some agencies are hesitant toget involved with these desperate situations since they will have toseize the animal and pay the expenses to feed and house it, he said.

And because of those costs to care for these majestic animals,neglect is their greatest threat. When purchasing a horse aprospective owner has to factor in that the average lifespan is 20-30 years and the minimal yearly expense can be up to $3,000 --that’s a financial commitment of $60,000 in addition to thepurchasing cost.

Equine ownership is connected to economic trends. Though theU.S. economy has improved since the end of the recession in 2009,Americans are still bouncing back. When someone who is barelygetting by perceives that he or she has limited options to care foran animal, experts say starvation often becomes the unintentionalsolution by cutting back on feed or even abandoning the animal.

Lacey believes there is a lack of public awareness and urgespeople to support the organizations that help those owners inneed. “It helps to get the horses out of their hands and not makethem feel ashamed for it,” she said. “Everybody falls on hard times.People need to ask for help. Donate to things like Toby’s Fund(Charleston Animal Society’s Medical Fund) or something similarbecause that’s what it’s for.”

Elvis is an example of a how these magnificent animals can besaved. In 2004, Elvis was rescued from Wadmalaw Island byCharleston Animal Society after he was found 450-poundsunderweight. 11 years later he is thriving and already has twoPinto World Championships under his belt. Terri Skinner adoptedElvis and paid thousands of dollars in medical bills to treat him,“We need stronger laws that would take those who abandon horsesand hold them responsible for their future treatment.”

Charleston Animal Society is now looking at how to expand thescope of their rescue efforts with equines. “We need to bring oursuccess in fostering and adopting, and expand it across the state,’Elmore said. “We are talking to other organizations about forminga public-private partnership to approach equine rescue.”

While that planning is underway, Elmore passionately urgeshorse owners who are in need to seek help. “There’s no excuse, atleast not in this country, to let a living creature starve to death.This is America, not a third world country,” he said. “When we putout a call for food, folks come in droves with food. That is just partof the American character, particularly in the South.”


HORSES REQUIRE:

■ An average of at least 16-22 lbs. of hay and/or grain each day

■ Hoof care every two months

“The situation out there is just horrendous,” Roman said.

■ Routine veterinary needs such as vaccinations, de-worming and dental care

■ Appropriate shelter and fencing.

■ 17 horse rescues in SC are onUnwantedHorseCoalition.com

(Top Left): Elvis, rescued 450-lbs. underweight, is thriving now and spends his days entertainingyoung friends.

(Top Right): UnwantedHorseCoalition.com lists 17 rescues in South Carolina.

(Lower Right): Joanna Lacey spending time withher latest foster, Sarab, one of 11 involved in arecent Charleston Animal Society rescue.

(Bottom Right): Sarab striking a pose, hoping toimpress her new adoptive family who might bereading this very article.



BY CLAIRE ROBERSON

EASTERN DIAMONDBACK RATTLESNAKE

These large snakes are heavy-bodied andhave large, wide heads. Adult diamond-backs are typically 33-72 inches long andcan weigh over 10 pounds! Their coloringis tan, yellowish or brown and they arecovered in a brown diamond pattern, bordered by lighter colored scales andthese snakes have two light colored linesacross their face. This snake is very uncommon, but still a potential threat.

It’s that time of year for a refreshercourse on snakes. Especially the six venomous kinds that slitherbetween the coast and themountains of South Carolina.“Snakes do not want to bite people.They do not want to bite pets,” saidWill Dillman, Herpetologist for theSouth Carolina Department ofNatural Resources, “if you see one,just stay away.”

SNAKES TO AVOID IN SOUTH CAROLINA6

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NATURE:: Watch Your Step OUTDOORWhat’sSlitherin’

CANEBRAKE/TIMBER RATTLESNAKE

Timber rattlesnakes, also known as cane-brake rattlesnakes in the southeast, arelarge and heavy-bodied. Adults can be 30-60 inches long. These snakes have thewell-known rattles at the end of their tails.Canebrake rattlesnakes are typically greywith a brown, yellow, pinkish or orangestripe down their back. Their tails areblack, almost velvet, with black chevronpatterns that point forward. This snake isthe most common of the rattlesnakes.

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PIGMY RATTLESNAKE

This small rattlesnake (14-22 inches) has a tiny rattle and nine big scales ontheir heads. Pigmy rattlesnakes have mid-dorsal lateral spots and a black orbrownish-red rod that runs from the baseof its mouth to its eye. They also have areddish-brown or orange dorsal stripe and a grey, lavender or tan body and thetip of their tail, used for luring, is oftensulfur yellow.

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COTTONMOUTH/WATER MOCCASIN

These large semi-aquatic snakes have atriangular head with a line through theireyes and large jowls due to their venomglands. They range from 24-48 incheslong and have keeled-scaled heavy bodies. Their colors vary from completelyblack or brown or brownish or yellow withdark crossbands. Their belly is commonlyblotched with dark and brown/yellow. Juvenile cottonmouths are easily identifi-able by their sulphur yellow tail.

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COPPERHEAD

Copperhead snakes are large (24-40 inch-es) and heavy-bodied with cat-like eyesand triangular, large heads. Their bodiesare tan or brown with hourglass cross-bands down their bodies. Their headshave two small dots in the center and areoften solid brown. Like the cottonmouth,the young snakes have a yellow tippedtail. Copperheads are the most common,but least toxic - meaning their venom isnot as potent, but still harmful.

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CORAL SNAKES

These slender snakes are medium-sized(18-30 inches). They are brightly coloredwith black, yellow and red rings – red and yellow touch. Their nose is black and their scales are smooth. Coral snakes are often confused with scarletking snakes and scarlet snakes, but the colorings of these are different – red ringstouch black rings on the scarlet and scarlet king snakes. These snakes are extremely uncommon.

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NATURE:: Yard Watch

SAGO PALMSSago Palms, also known as cycads, Coontie Palm, Cardboard Palm and zamias, are year-round. This plant is toxic to dogs and cats. Symptoms of toxicconsumption include hemorrhagic gas-troenteritis, increased thirst, vomiting,icterus, melena, liver damage, coagulopa-thy, bruising, liver failure and even death.

NARCISSUSThese white or yellow six-petal flowersare also known as Jonquil, Paper Whiteand Daffodil. This plant is toxic to bothcats and dogs. The bulbs of these plantsare the most poisonous parts to pets. If a large amount is consumed, low blood pressure, convulsions, cardiac arrhythmias and tremors can occur.

GARDEN ALERTBY CLAIRE ROBERSON

DAYLILIESThere are many varieties of daylilies with colors ranging from yellow to purple to pink, but all are toxic to cats.Oddly enough, daylilies are not toxic to dogs. All parts of this plant are toxic to cats, even small portions. If your cathas consumed a daylily, it can result inkidney failure.

AMARYLLISThis flowering plant is commonly pink,red or white and has burgundy markings.It is known by many other names, such as Belladonna lily, Saint Joseph lily, CapeBelladonna and Naked Lady. It is toxic to both dogs and cats. Signs that your pethas consumed an Amaryllis plant are depression, abdominal pain, vomiting,tremors, hyper salivation and diarrhea.

LIRIOPE This plant, also known as monkey grass,looks a lot like long grass and is found inmany southern yards. Though it is part of the lily family, monkey grass is toxic toboth cats and dogs. However, symptomsare minor and include stomachache andnausea/vomiting.

TULIP Tulips are six-petaled flowers that havecolors ranging from peach to lavender to yellow. These plants are poisonous todogs and cats with the most toxic part being the bulb. Symptoms include depression, hyper salivation, vomitingand diarrhea. Since tulips are grown bothindoors and outdoors, it is important tokeep these potted plants out of reach ofyour pets.

ELEPHANT EARSAs suggested by the name, elephantears are huge, elephant ear-like leavesthat can grow up to 6 feet long. Elephantears, also known as Pai, Via, Caladium,Taro, Ape, Via sori, Cape and Malanga,are toxic to dogs and cats. If consumed, intense burning and oral irritation, excessive drooling, difficulty in swallowing and vomiting may occur.

SPRINGPlants to

Avoid

Spring is a symbol of rebirth and life, but be aware of the potentially toxicplants growing in your backyard that could harm your pet. According to Amy Dabbs, Urban Horticulture Extension Agent at the Clemson Extension,“There are a lot of plants that, if ingested, can cause issues.” These issuesrange from nausea to possible death. So if you see your dog or cat sniffingaround one of these – keep them away!


ONE NIGHTIN THE PET ER

Dr. Shelley Fetterolf is one of two veterinarians workingthe ER night shift when we visit, and one by one she isbriefed on each animal in its individual kennel, or“room.” Tonight’s cats and dogs run the gamut of

breeds, sizes, diagnosis and medical needs.First up is Kasey, a 9-year-old Lab labeled “HBC” (hit by car)

with a broken wrist and hip. The dog will have a lengthy stay inthe ER following surgical reparation of his bones. He is joinednearby by fellow Lab, 1-year-old Gracie, who was admitted the daybefore when her spay sutures slipped and caused internal bleeding.“Gracie was definitely one of those ‘stop everything’ emergencycases,” Dr. Fetterolf notes. “She came in and it was a moment of,‘okay, we need to treat her now’ to save her life.”

A typical entry into tonight’s ER begins with parents givingtheir info at the front desk, then awaiting Maria Spivey, to cometalk to them. “I gather the information, the history of the patientand the story of what happened, and I relay it all to the doctor”Spivey says. Her job is known as “triage" technician. Pets thenhave their information placed on the ER white board as they awaitthe doctor’s exam.

As Dr. Fetterolf continues rounds, in walks the next patient:Maggie, an 8-year-old German Shepherd with a mass on her jawthe size of a grapefruit. The dog has no fever, no signs of pain, andis eating and drinking—but something is obviously wrong.Oncologist, Dr. Kathryn Taylor, happens to still be in the practicethat evening and aspirates the mass, noting, “This could besomething small like a tooth abscess or it could be cancer-filledwith fluid. We won’t know anything conclusive tonight, but we’llsee what we find.”

What she finds is a black liquid, concurrent with melanoma.Her face falls as the realization hits her. More tests need to bedone, but the diagnosis doesn’t look good for Maggie.

After conferring with Dr. Taylor, Dr. Fetterolf comes up with alist of treatment for Maggie and then prepares to speak withMaggie’s owner, Danielle Bellknap, founder of Fur Life, a GermanShepherd rescue organization. Danielle took in Maggie four months

ago when she discovered the previous owners weren’t caring forher properly. That’s when Bellknap discovered the tumor. “It wasfairly small and the doctor we saw, said it needed to be removed,but just to keep an eye. And we did,” Danielle says. “There wasabsolutely no change in it until today. This morning it was completelyfine and then suddenly tonight it just exploded in size.”

Test results won’t be ready tonight, but the doctor informsDanielle that Maggie most likely has cancer. “Doing nothing isnot an option here,” Dr. Fetterolf explains. “If the mass rupturesand Maggie bleeds internally, she is going to die.” Surgery of thisextent is going to cost about $3,000 and the melanoma vaccine

It’s a place fueled by high emotion, life-and-death situations and compassionate, caring animal healthcare workers. We’re talking about the Pet ER, the one place every animal lover hopes he or she will never have to visit. Our Teri Errico spent a night at Mt. Pleasant’s 24-hour Veterinary Specialty Care with photographer Reese Moore and files this report.

Opposite Page: (Clockwise from top left): Max’s parents were alarmed at his limping, so staff did a lengthy exam with the nippy dog to try and uncover the cause.

A small Chihuahua with a broken leg checks in overnight before her reparation surgery.

Dr. Fetterolf examines Flair to see if there is a neurological reasoning the cat can’twalk tonight.

Vet Techs discuss the night’s procedures as shifts end and new employees come on.

Maggie, an 8-year-old German Shepherd, calmly awaits an ER vet to aspirate the masson her face.

(This Page) ER staff bring Dulce out of back surgery for a herniated disc and make himas comfortable as possible for recovery stay.

MEDICALCloser Look


for lethargy and nausea. “We found the bone stuck in the back partof her esophagus, so we had to push it down into the stomach andthen surgically go in to remove it,” explains Nicole Imler, VeterinarianTechnician.

Aside from cats and dogs, the ER is also a drop off for Birds ofPrey and other animal wildlife, so strays are often brought in, aswell as wild animals and exotics. Buzzards. Alligators. Owls. Turtles.One day the cat den was filled with squirrels. Another time theyeven had a wild pig.

Incoming again. This time it’s Leilah, a female Beagle who hasbeen bitten on the mouth by another dog. In some situations,when the bleeding is controlled and the dog is acting normal,parents should use their discretion whether to take the dog to theER or not, the vet techs advise. Leilah does have a puncture would,however, and needs sutures, but she howls and flinches when thedoctors come near her. “Rather than digging in sutures and puttinga dog in further pain, I prefer, especially in this case, the ease of

will be another $3,000. “But this is a very serious type of cancerand a very aggressive type of cancer, so even with all that, you’restill looking at only another six months.“

Because Maggie is stable and still very happy, Bellknap doesn’twant to consider euthanization yet and agrees to see her primaryvet tomorrow to discuss the best options.

Sadly Maggie won’t be the first dog in the ER with cancertonight. Betty has pulmonary adenocarcinoma, and has beenadmitted because her chemo caused her white blood count todrop too far, developing an infection. It’s a full house tonight withnearly 20 animals in the ICU, several others who also have significantmedical challenges. Booty is a 12-year-old diabetic Maltese whoseblood sugar level has spiked too high and is receiving plasmaintravenously for pancreatitis as well. Boxer Roxy has been broughtinto neurology for seizures.

Back in the exam room, the friendly Finley cheers up the doctorsas he hobbles by, his back left leg bandaged in a green cast withcartoon lambs. Finley is an 8-month-old Walker Hound who got alittle excited about a plate of cookies, jumped and fell, breakinghis leg.

It’s a cold night and Spivey notes that weather plays a big rolein what types of injuries they see in the ER. “In summer you get alot of heat strokes, snake bites and outdoor activity” she says.They even saw one dog who jumped off a boat and caught hisneck on one of the posts. “But when it’s cold like tonight, peoplestay in more,” she continues, “so you see pets eating foods theyshouldn’t, or dogs who are bored and have chewed or ingestedhousehold objects.”

Case in point is Chunk, an older English bulldog who swalloweda ham bone. She showed no signs of choking, but was brought in

(Top): Violet was admitted into the ER after she wasaccidentally given too muchpain medicine.

(Left): Maggie hearing thediagnosis of the tumor thatgrew rapidly on the side ofher face.

staples because it’s two quick piercings and you’re done,” Dr.Fetterolf explains. Both take equal time to heal, about 10-14 days,and Leilah’s staples are done in a matter of seconds.

In addition to wounds and accidents, many dogs are brought infor vomiting or diarrhea—such as Brody, a spritely young Pitbullwho has just been admitted—and Dr. Fetterolf performs her umpteenthdehydration check of the night. First, she looks inside the animal’smouth to see if the gums are tacky or dry. Then, she presses onthem to see how quick the capillary reflexes are—whether theyturn pink immediately or stay white too long. Lastly, she pinchesthe hair of a pet to see if it falls back into place (healthy) or staysstanding (dehydrated). Brody passes all the tests, and despiteunusual bowel movements, he is in ideal health. “Sometimes, likehumans, it really just boils down to an upset stomach. MaybeBrody ate something that didn’t agree with him and that’s all itreally is,” Dr. Fetterolf states. Brody is discharged, but with thepromise that the owner can return within 24 hours for a free follow-up if the dog becomes unstable. The veterinarian adds, “You haveto trust the parents that they will watch their pet closely, though,and bring it in immediately if things change.”

The one thing that’s distinct about the ER is the sounds. It canbe filled with a cacophony of beeping as monitors alert techs thatdoses are done or a dog has crimped his IV tubes. Around 10PM,there is a completely new sound: cooing. Spivey brings in Violet, a5-month-old pug who has overdosed on pain medicine after herowner was confused by dosage instructions. Brenden Ridnick’s doctorhad given him a syringe filled with 10 doses. Ridnick misunderstoodand accidentally gave Violet the entire syringe at once.

Immediately after realizing his mistake, Ridnick rushed to theER following the suggestion of animal poison control. Back in theER, Dr. Fetterolf also calls poison control to back up Ridnick’sfindings. She is told to monitor Violet’s vitals for the first hour, andafter two hours, the puppy is doing great, despite being in a bit ofa haze. So the vet sends Ridnick home with detailed directions onhow to monitor the pup’s heartrate for the next few hours.

As our time in the ER winds down, Dr. Fetterolf leaves us to gotell the owners of a senior cat the difficult news that their pet mayhave had a stroke. New techs come in to take over Imler andSpivey’s shifts. But while they clock out, nothing truly ends at thehospital. Some pets will be there when they return, others will bedischarged, or unable to be saved, and their rooms filled with new

It’s a full house tonight with nearly 20 animals,several others who also have significant medicalchallenges.

furry faces. “We’d love to do everything and save everything andfix everything, and sometimes that’s a really hard part of my job,”Dr. Fetterolf admits. “But then I think about how we also do a lot ofgood here in the ER and it keeps you going.” And go they must,because they are the ones pet owners depend on in every kind ofemergency, in all kinds of weather, 24/7.

Clockwise from Top: Sometimes treating pets is a two-person job as the animals often flinch, howl and stir out of distress or pain.

Each patient’s course of treatment is outlined carefully by the vets, and Vet Techs carefully.

Maggie receives a dehydration check.

A Chihuahua isn’t quite sure what to make of her new cast.


Meet Pluff E. Floyd. No really, check out her Facebookpage! Ashby and Theresa Floyd fell in love instantlywith the German shorthaired pointer and the energy

she brought to their lives. A natural athlete, she started jumpingoff docks when she was less than a year old. Just the word ‘jump’gets her dancing with excitement! “Once she learned to swim,”says Theresa, “she only wanted to be in the water.” She is a MasterDockDog. Her first recorded jump—more than 19 feet! One monthlater at a competition in Winyah Bay, she reached her personalbest --- a whopping 21’1”. They were on the way to nationals, buther reign was short-lived. Two days later, tragedy struck the JamesIsland family.

“She followed me out the door when I went to take the trashout,” recalls Ashby. “When I noticed she wasn’t behind me, I calledher, but she didn’t come.” Screeching tires and painful yelps heardone instant later made it clear where she had gone. In no time, afrantic Floyd walked into Charleston Veterinary Referral Centerwith a bleeding dog in his arms.

HOW DO YOU WANT TO PROCEED?After an accident, concern andworry can send a person into atime warp. The 30-minute driveto the clinic somehow only takes10, and, seconds later, the patientis wheeled through the “EmployeesOnly” door. Now, the minutes that

felt like seconds drag on for hours until, finally, some news. Thenthe the inevitable- “how do you want to proceed?”

What the doctor really needs to know is “Are you prepared topay for treatment?”

In Pluff’s case – the Floyds learned she could fully recuperate,but it would cost $27,000. “To spend that kind of money on a dogwas overwhelming to me,” said Theresa. A tough choice had to be

made. As they would find out, modern pets have amazing medicaloptions, but you have to pay for the privilege.

“Cost comes in to play a lot and it’s a completely understandablething,” says Justin Lewandowski, Doctor of Veterinary Medicineat Ohlandt Veterinary Clinic, “We always hope to give the bestcare we can. [We look at] what the animal has been through, it’sage, and the position of the family to find the best thing to do.”Most pet caretakers he sees have little problem with the expectedcosts. Traumatic situations usually come down to a number.

THE KINDNESS OF OTHERS When Kayla Gillam of West Ashley brought Riley to the doctor,she was sure something was wrong. The eight-year-old Yorkie hadhis share of health problems. “I’ve made several sacrifices for thislittle thing,” Kayla quips. Only a few years earlier, Kayla cleanedout her college savings to pay for treatment for Riley’s bowelobstruction, but she wasn’t ready this time. “He had 11 bladderstones; one in his bladder and 10 in his urethra.” It would cost$2500 in surgery. Kayla had no way to pay. The nurse came outwith the papers- one set for surgery, the other consenting toeuthanasia. “They were super nice about it, but the decision had tobe made that second.”

Feeling helpless, Kayla called her boyfriend, Don, to get pickedup. In tears, she explained that she had to put her treasured Rileydown. Seeking comfort when he arrived, Kayla got more than sheever expected. Don took out a loan to pay for Riley’s treatment! “Idon’t even know if there is a thank you big enough for somethinglike that.”

IN THE LINE OF DUTYBobo’s main job was to protect the goats and horses on ChrisBrown’s Yonges Island property, a role that came natural for theBlue Heeler. He was a working dog and beloved pet. And it wasBobo’s protection instinct that got him in trouble.

ARTICLE & PHOTOGRAPHY BY ELLIE WHITCOMB-PAYNE

What’s Your Pet Worth?How do animal lovers make the call when their pets face life or death?

MEDICALCloser

Look


Ethicists agree that making these kinds of decisions are gut-wrenching for people, because while medical advancements areavailable, the financial costs are often beyond someone’s ability topay. Jennifer Baker is an Associate Professor of Philosophy at theCollege of Charleston. “When we adopt a pet,” says Dr. Baker, “wetake the place of someone else’s ability to care for the animal.” Sheexplains a good guardian should “rid his pet of pain and fear,”even if this requires a financial or emotional sacrifice. But, shecautions, “This isn’t the same as requiring cancer treatment orbrain surgery for pets.”

“Everyone has a right to enjoy a dog, whether you’re a millionaireor you have enough to get by,” says Dr. Lewandowski. “If [you] aretaking on the responsibility for an animal, not necessarily spendinga lot of money but at least doing the best that you are able, that’sall we can ask.”

PLUFF RETURNSAfter Day 2 at the hospital, Ashby and Theresa Floyd receivedPluff’s full prognosis: broken ribs, broken hip and a puncturedlung. With treatment and some rehabilitation, she could live acomfortable life, but her active lifestyle would have to be curbed.And, she would never compete again. “But when we showed thedoctor the 21ft dock jump she had performed only two days earlier,the whole treatment changed,” says Ashby. The surgery and therapyto replace Pluff’s hip would cost nearly $27,000. Just about everycent they had saved to buy their first home.

Theresa wasn’t convinced, but to Ashby, money was never aconcern. “She was such a young dog, maybe if she had been olderit would have been different,” he said. The way he saw it- they hadit and Pluff needed it. Theresa lacked confidence, that is, until shesaw her Pluff. “I knew she was going to be fine if I spent themoney. We could have spent less and she would have been a lapdog. But she was a DockDog and you could see it in her eyes thatshe had the will to live.” In February, about one year after treatment,the Floyds went back to DockDogs at SEWE. “As soon as weturned the corner to Brittlebank Park she was super excited,” recallsTheresa. “Her first jump that day, I didn’t even throw the ball. Shejumped 17 feet!”

(Clockwise from top): Riley before and after her $2,500 surgery to remove 11 bladder stones.

WHAT THE EXPERTS SAY:Money does not equal love. Many factors influence aperson’s decision when it comes to expensive medicaltreatment for pets:

■ Your financial situation ■ Pet’s life expectancy■ Pet’s quality of life ■ Follow-up care and cost

“Bobo was never chained but he never wandered off,” says Chris."He was always there when I came out.” It was a risk, but it wasnecessary to protect the livestock from danger. A pack of dogswould sometimes stray into Chris’s lot. Usually Bobo would standhis ground and fend them off. On this night, though, the packfemale was in heat, wandering with her grown offspring, andlooking for a fight. They cornered Bobo at the front porch, wherehe was trying to protect his people. Chris remembers the nightclearly. “It was late and there was a lot of barking. I ran outside andthere was Bobo,” who had been critically injured. Chris rushedBobo to the nearest emergency clinic, about 40 minutes away.

Bobo was not in good shape but he was still alive and fightingfor his life. “They cleaned him, then, 20 minutes later, they cameout.” A course of action was available but the doctors couldn’t besure how effective it would be. Chris was asked to make a decision.“I just couldn’t imagine him not being Bobo. He would not havebeen able to do the things that he was used to.” The initialexploratory surgery would cost at least $2500, and would go upfrom there with intense therapy and medication. “I just couldn’timagine him living that way.” Chris knew that he had really onlyone choice. In the early morning hours Bobo was euthanized withhis best friend nearby.

(Pg. 20 Top): Pluff E. Floyd soaring in theDockDogs competition one year after surgery.

(Pg. 20 Left): Pluff E. Floyd recovering shortlyafter her $27,000 surgery and treatment.


IT MIGHT BE THE CUTEST INVASIONyou’ll ever see – but it’s an invasionnonetheless. We’re talking about “KittenSeason,” which sounds cute, furry andcuddly, yet the season, which runs fromApril to August, brings in an overwhelminginflux of kittens to Charleston AnimalSociety and other shelters.

“Last year we had 2,500 kittens in fosterhomes,” beams Christina Ellwood, one ofCharleston Animal Society’s fostercoordinators. You read that number right,2,500! But the only reason Christina isbeaming now is because we’re talking toher before the kitten slam begins. By thetime you read this, she’ll be busy workingthe phones and emails, rounding up fosterfamilies.

Which brings us to you! If you are lookingfor a fun and educational family project,look no further than fostering a rescueanimal.

Family ExperienceLisa Nichols’ family has had 32 fosters overthe past three years! She says the lessonslearned by her two sons, Haley, 10 and

Dylan, 7, – are invaluable. Haley and Dylanhave taken turns bottle-feeding kittens, andthey’ve learned to be gentle, empatheticand sympathetic.

Haley keeps a journal and both boyslove taking field trips back to the shelter tosee if the animals have been adopted.Nichols says the fun is contagious, becausefriends of the family have become fosterparents after seeing the Nichols enthusiasmand success.

“Fostering has crept into every aspectof our lives for sure,” said Nichols.

Adoption ambassador Mary Beth Dewhas been fostering kittens for the past threeyears. Having owned cats all of her life,when she and her husband, David, put theirlast pet to rest after 17 years, she decidedto begin fostering kittens.

Dew has cared for 50 kittens and saysit’s important for these animals to be in aloving home where they can receive one-on-one care. In her case, she introducesthe kitten to her master bathroom and letsthe kitten settle down for four hours. Oncecomfortable (and yes, once they knowexactly where the litter box is), she lets thefeline have free run of her house. Dewworks from home, and is never short ofcompany; many times she finds kittenssleeping on a pillow at the end of her desk.Her husband is also a big part of FosterTeam Dew.

THE KITTEN INVASIONBY HELEN RAVENEL HAMMOND

FOSTERING:: April Kitten Slam

What does Dew tell people who mayshy away from fostering because they’reafraid of getting too attached? “I love myfosters. The reason I have to give them upis to make room for more,” Dew said. Andthis attitude has helped save dozens oflives. While animals are out in foster, thereis more room in the shelter, and privatehomes are always a healthier environment.

Dew has a log of all of her cats, and newowners will often “check in” by sendingher photos and email updates. Sometimesshe even “kitty sits” for her former fosterkitties.

FOSTER We Need You

A kitten “hangingout” with foster momMary Beth Dew, whohas fostered 50 kittens in the pastthree years.

Dylan Nichols is learning all sorts of life lessons byhelping to foster kittens. To learn more about fostering,visit www.CharlestonAnimalSociety.org/foster.



TWO YEARS AGO, WOODSON, OURbeloved 14 year old black Labrador passedaway from cancer. Our indoor cat, Romeo,was distressed because Woodson was withhim since we rescued him as a kitten. Whenwe found Romeo he was a stray, with littlechance of survival and infested with fleas.Woodson smothered Romeo with love andaffection from day one. They were happy

together. After Woodson’s death, Romeowas wandering the house, particularly nearthe spots that he used to share with him.Our cat was unresponsive to our attemptsto cheer him up with cat nip, treats and toys.

I wanted to look for another cat as newcompanion for Romeo so I decided to visitthe Charleston Animal Society. I was toldit is difficult to find placement for oldercats. I wanted to rescue a cat with lessprobability of being adopted. On my wayto the cat adoption area, I noticed a whitekitten that had a sad demeanor, similar tothe one that Romeo displayed. As I touredthe adoption area, I could not take my mindoff the white kitten. Her name was Rosie.I immediately adopted her and took herhome.

Rosie and Romeo were introduced toeach other gradually. After one month, thecats seemed to be fine with each other. Butone night I heard sounds of distress. Thetwo cats were very vocal and loud. I heardtumbling noises and I wondered where

READING BETWEENTHE CLAWSA Tale of Forgiveness?

BY DR. ANNA VECCHIONE

BEHAVIOR:: Adjustment Period

they were coming from. I found Romeoand Rosie fighting in the cat room. Therewere bits of fur everywhere. The tumblingnoises were from objects falling as the catsbumped into things. Romeo seemed to haveovercome Rosie. I grabbed a towel andthrew it towards Romeo with the hope thatthe fight was going to stop. I hoped myaction would cause a diversion.

Unfortunately, it did not work that way.Rosie escaped from Romeo’s grip and rantowards me. I knew she was scared. Herclaws reached deep into the skin of mylegs. I could not break from her clutch. Ihad to call my husband to detach her frommy legs.

Since the fight Rosie has forgiven Romeoand I have forgiven Rosie. Often it takestime for pets to get comfortable with eachother, as it does between human beingsliving in the same house. My clumsy attemptto protect my cat from harm was done ingood faith, yet it harmed me. Adoptiveparents need to know as much as they canabout animal behavior.

Nowadays, it is such beautiful sight tosee Romeo and Rosie playing together andgrooming each other. Rosie is such a lovingand tender cat. At night she sleeps next tomy feet. It is such cozy feeling when Iaccidentally brush my foot against her softfur. I love her. Now that she is settled inour house, she shows no sign of aggressivebehavior. I wonder how many people giveup too quickly on their new pets becauseof behavioral issues.

But it is time for forgiveness again aswe make space for another pet. Last monthwe adopted a puppy from CharlestonAnimal Society. We named him Harbies.Rosie and Romeo are doing their best tolet him realize that they are not interestedin playing. There is lots of vocalization inour house but very little action. But Harbiesdoes not mind. He is very active and has abig heart. But most of all Harbies is aforgiver.

When not doting on her two cats and newpuppy, Dr. Anna Vecchione does researchon ocean dwellers, including sea horses!She wants everyone to remember that whenyou adopt at Charleston Animal Society,you will receive tips on introducing yournew pet to your family. You can also takeadvantage of dog training classes.

MY TURNCat FightRosie (l) and Romeo (r)have kissed and madeup after a nasty fightthat got our authorthinking about theimportance of not giving up on pets whomay have an outburstof bad behavior.


CharlestonAnimalSociety.org

CharlestonAnimalSociety @AdoptatCAS

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Thinking Outside the Cage Animal sanctuaries provide safe oasis for homeless pets

We all know the great work that shelters like CharlestonAnimal Society do for the welfare of animals in ourcommunity. But did you know the Lowcountry is blessed

with two “sanctuaries” for homeless animals? Indoor/outdoor slicesof heaven that help some of the most challenging animals.

Hallie Hill SanctuaryAbout 25 miles outside of Charlestonlies an extraordinary place for homelessdogs and cats. Hallie Hill gently rollsacross 37 acres in Hollywood, where onany given day, you will find a variety ofdogs playing in extensive runs.Volunteers are on-hand to providespecial one-on-one time with each ofthe animals, every day of the year.

It’s as close to the “Ritz” as a dog or cat can hope for, withanimal houses sporting heat lamps, bedding and automatic waterdispensers. And there are plenty of fenced-in pens with lots ofroom for the dogs to run around.

The history is interesting as Hallie Hill was once a horse farmfor Helen Bradham and her family. Stray dogs would show up andthe Bradhams would take them in. Over time, as the horses livedout their lives, the horse stalls were converted into dog pens, whilethe barn and other buildings were converted to accommodate catsand dogs.

“It is almost like an old folks home for dogs and cats withgeriatric needs and all of the medicines we give,” said Hallie HillDirector Jennifer Middleton.

Helen Bradham is still involved with Hallie Hill and likes to bethere when veterinarians are called. She especially likes to takethe dogs to a specialist and cares for them when they are inhospice. During these times, she is constantly cooking meat forthem to make them comfortable before they cross “the rainbowbridge.”

“When people bring in dogs, we take them. No questions asked,”said Middleton. And oftentimes no answers can be found. Likewhy two female dogs brought in had gunshot shrapnel in theirlegs. Or why some of the rescued dogs continue to have behavioralissues. But one thing is certain: the sanctuary can serve as a foreverhome if the animals need it. They can spend their remaining yearsin a healthy and safe environment,” Middleton said.

Oftentimes Middleton will see people bringing in dogs ofneighbors who have passed away. As soon as they come in, theywill often need medical treatment, vaccinations and spayed orneutered. As for the older dogs, Middleton says that medicaltreatment is even more intense, because the animals need moremedications and orthopedic treatment.

Hallie Hill is currently caring for 168 dogs and 51 cats. Most areadoptable and a few are fostered. “But it is imperative to makesure that any adopter will provide the care that is needed, as manyof these animals are in very bad situations,” remarked Middleton.

The sanctuary has built relationships with other organizationsto help with their life-saving mission. Charleston Animal Societyhas helped immensely with spay and neuter, according to Middleton.As for cats, West Ashley Veterinary Clinic has been instrumentalin showcasing cats to be adopted.

To donate, adopt or volunteer, visit www.halliehill.com formore information.

BY HELEN RAVENEL HAMMONDPHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHAEL MULLIGAN

Hallie Hill AnimalCaretaker Sue Windergiving some TLC to agroup of dogs enjoyingthe great outdoors.


Feline Freedom CoalitionJust a few minutes away from HallieHill, you will find Feline FreedomCoalition. Tucked in the woods,these 20 acres are home to 250 feraland adoptable cats.

Over a dozen structures (RVs, trailers, converted container units)serve as housing for the cats. Feline Freedom Coalition FounderDiane Straney points to one called “The Dollhouse” that is mainlyfor ferals.

Creativity abounds. Visitors will find wooden picnic tablesstacked on each other to provide ample kitty lounging room onthe ledges. Many of the structures were donated by people inspiredby Straney’s passion for saving lives. “With the miles of woods,this is a great place for the cats to have free rein,” Straney said.

Straney began her mission 20 years ago on the Isle of Palms,where she pioneered the TNR (trap-neuter-return) program thathas helped the cat overpopulation problem in Charleston County.When you visit, be sure to ask to see Boy Boy, who she found at theIsle of Palms Marina in 1998—he is still kicking and now lives atthe sanctuary.

Feline Freedom Coalition does not take owner surrenders.Straney’s focus is on ferals and homeless cats, many of whom shestill traps herself. She also does her part to help local shelters likeCharleston Animal Society, where she takes in half of her cats.“We are able to help with cats that need extra socialization, ferals ,and those who need medications,” Straney added.

When feral kittens are brought in, Straney starts to work hermagic by engaging them with human touch and other people-friendly cats. When they become six weeks old, they are sent toCharleston Animal Society to be spayed/neutered and vaccinated.Then they are offered for adoption at a local PetSmart store.

If you would like to donate, volunteer or adopt, visitFelineFreedom.org for more information.

(Top Left and Below): Feline FreedomCoalition Shelter Operations Coordinator De Mock spends her day giving love andattention to cats of all types.

(Left): As with any shelter or sanctuary,laundry and cleanliness are a top priority.

RESCUE

Homeless

Animals


SPORTING LIFE:: Dock Dogs

THE CROWDS AT THIS YEAR’SSoutheastern Wildlife Expo (SEWE) inCharleston were epic. So were the dogsflying along the banks of the Ashley Riverin the DockDogs competition. We selecteda few jumps and had DockDogs eventmanager Bob DeWire give us the insidescoop on form, technique and overall “woof”appeal. Bob estimates he’s witnessed 48,000jumps in his career.

JUMPINGSplashDown

UP, UP AND AWAY!How’re These Dogs Lookin’?

BY DAN KROSSE PHOTOGRAPHER: PAUL MULKEYIMAGES (COURTESY: SEWE)

“What I see is a dog that has goodspeed and is a flat jumper. Her speed willcarry her well, but if she could work ongetting a little more ‘pop’ at the end of thedock, it would help with her hang time anddistance.”

“This is a young dog who got a lot of‘pop’ at the end of the dock, but then lost track of the toy, so midway, he’s justsaying, ‘I’m going to have some flying fun,’and prepares for the landing. The throw iseverything in dock jumping.”

“I would say this is a relatively new dogbecause of where his transition point is. Ithink this was a short jump (about 10 feet)and pretty flat. All he needs is more time onthe dock to build up that confidence.”

“I have two words for this: ‘Drug test.’You can’t get a better picture. This dog is an athlete. He is ripped, like a young Arnold,and his form is like few others. Look at himdriving right through the air; it’s exactly whatyou want a dog to do. I would say he is inthe higher ranks of DockDogs and probablyjumped 25 to 26 feet.”

“Here is an excellent example of what we call ‘using all of thedock.’ This is a great team out of Tennessee and as the photocontinues, you can see a beautiful transition into the water. This is great form for a tall dogand he gets a good stretch.”

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CharlestonAnimalSociety

@AdoptatCAS

CharlestonAnimalSociety.org


ANIMAL RESCUE:: New Initiatives

Q&A WITH CHARLESTON ANIMAL SOCIETY CEO JOE ELMOREAT THEIR 2015 ANNUAL MEETINGCharleston Animal Society launched notone, but two life-saving initiatives for animals.No Kill South Carolina and No Kill, NoHarm. Carolina Tails thought it was a goodtime to sit down and learn more about thisexciting new direction from CharlestonAnimal Society CEO Joe Elmore.

Why did you launch No Kill South Carolina?Since 2008, Charleston Animal Society, withthe help of the ASPCA, has worked diligentlytoward increasing the community’s live releaserate from 35% to over 90%. The AnimalSociety takes in 90% of Charleston County’sunwanted and stray animals and is the onlyorganization in the County that does notturn animals away -- it rests with us to changethe community! In 2013, The Animal Societylaunched the boldest animal rescue initiativeever undertaken in the Southeast – No KillCharleston 2015. Although many industryprofessionals and others thought this wasnearly impossible to do in the South, webelieved in ourselves and our community,and with focus, strategy and determination,we were able to build a No Kill Communityand we did it two years ahead of schedule!Now, we must inspire other communitiesacross South Carolina and elsewhere to do

the same. No Kill South Carolina (NKSC)will link communities to us so that we canshare the strategies, tactics and capacity-building that have worked in CharlestonCounty. We will work with organizationsboth here and in their communities growingthis movement statewide.

What is No Kill No Harm??Although we have built a No Kill Community,we have a long way to go in building ahumane one. Every day, we see animals whohave suffered a wide array of cruelty. FromMt. Pleasant to Hollywood and Ravenel, fromWest Ashley to North Charleston, fromCharleston to Johns Island, it’s everywhereand cruelty is committed by people from allwalks of life. We see animals poisoned,starved, burned, shot, stabbed, bound andthrown into waterways to drown, tossed fromoverpasses into oncoming traffic, and left todie in the extreme heat of automobiles duringsummer. Quite frankly, we’re mad as hell

NO KILLNo Harm

and we’re not going to take it anymore! Weare going to build out No Kill Charleston tobecome No Kill, No Harm Charleston. Wehave already started organizing a task forceof key leaders to lay the foundation forbuilding a community that doesn’t tolerateanimal cruelty. We must educate those thatdon’t know how to properly care for theiranimals and punish those that willingly harmtheir animals. We’ll make this a priority ofour elected officials and if it doesn’t becomea priority, then we’ll change those electedofficials. Just as No Kill Charleston mobilizesthe entire community, so will No Kill, NoHarm Charleston.

How can people get involved?We need everyone who is sick and tired ofhearing, “It’s just an animal” to stand withus because “us” is “you!” This is about ourfamilies, our pets and our home. To addthese initiatives to our continual challengeof keeping Charleston County a No KillCommunity will take financial support,volunteer support, foster support, lawenforcement support and grassrootsadvocacy. Watch closely for our calls toaction and become part of something thathas never happened before – a communitythat doesn’t tolerate needless euthanasia,nor cruelty.



ASK THETRAINERI have a very sweet dog and would loveto have her become a therapy dog. How can I tell if she has what it takes,and what is the process?- Aileen, James Island

Aileen, there are never enough therapy dogteams to fill the needs of our community.

The good news about training a dog tobe a good therapy dog is that it is the sametraining someone would do to have a well-behaved family pet -- teaching basic goodmanners and lots of socialization with allkinds of people -- different races as well asof various ages.

Requirements of a Therapy Dog:• The dog must be at least one year of age.• The handler must have owned or had a

close relationship with the dog for a minimum of three months.

• The dog must not mind being touched all over by strangers.

• There must be no jumping when greetingpeople, or pulling on leash when walking.

• Dog aggressive dogs are not allowed to be therapy dogs. Dogs should be able to work around other dogs with no excessivebarking or any growling/lunging. They are not allowed to come within two feet ofother dogs while working.

• Dogs should be comfortable around wheelchairs, walkers and other medical equipment, and not mind people walkingunsteadily.

• Above all else, the handler must never take his eyes off of the dog, and maintain full control at all times.

We test the handler (owner) and dog as ateam. We look for a strong relationshipbetween handler and dog. Once the teampasses this first part of the test, called thehandling portion, the team must completethree successful visits in an actual facility.On these observations, the tester not onlyevaluates how well the handler and dog worktogether, but also gives tips and advice onhow best to present the dog for petting andinteracting.

Once the team passes the handling portionof the test and three observations (givenfour chances), the handler sends in hisapplication packet to Therapy Dogs Inc., inCheyenne, WY. This is a national organization,with 14,000 members, which means that ifsomeone is tested in South Carolina andmoves to California, the registration is stillgood! Members may be individual members,visiting solo wherever a facility allows; ormembers may join local groups so they visitwith other teams or do group events.

There is no such thing as therapy dogcertification. Teams that pass testing becomeregistered with Therapy Dogs Inc. This meansthat handlers have liability insurance whenvisiting as volunteers and are followingTherapy Dogs Inc. rules.

It is important to recognize the distinctionbetween therapy dogs and assistance dogs.Therapy dogs are personal pets, which havebeen tested and passed the process describedabove. They have no legal access rights.Assistance dogs have been trained to performspecific tasks to help a disabled personfunction in every day life, and are allowed togo places where dogs are not usually allowed.

Aileen, I hope this information helps andperhaps we will see you and your pet visitingone of our area hospitals, libraries (wherechildren read to pets), senior centers ormental health facilities very soon!

TRAINING TIPS:: Sit. Heel. Stay

BEHAVIORPet

Therapy

Jane Hirsch with two of her therapy dogs, (l) Will and (r) Ben.(Below) Jane’s late dog, Rafter, who was the very first therapy dog ever at MUSC. His portrait hangs in the lobby.

Jane teaches classes throughCharleston Animal Society's dogtraining program. To learn more, visit:CharlestonAnimalSociety.org/dog-training.



RESCUE:: Adopt, Don’t Buy!

TAKE ME HOMESpring is here and Charleston Animal Society is hoping you can make room for one more. Our pets come spayed-neutered, vaccinated and each are evaluated for their behavior. Come visit Charleston Animal Society today at 2455 Remount Road in North Charleston or go online to: www.CharlestonAnimalSociety.org.

Well, hello there. Yes,you caught me wink-ing at you. I am Elliott.They call me “L” hereat Charleston AnimalSociety – because I’m filled with a whole lotta’ love.

Tommy’s myname, sweetness– my game. Yes,I’m a senior dog,but that justmeans I’ve gotthe know-how tomake you smile.Like, when younap, I nap.

Hello amigo, mi nombre es Wonka. (The other cats go loco when I speak Spanish.) Do you not like how my whiskers frame my face? Do you dare come closer and adopt?

Had I known you werecoming, I wouldhave tidied up a bit.They call me Scrappyand I have a thing forstuffie toys. I hope you have a thing forawesome dogs

I am Ava, a shepherd mix who will turn twothis summer. Mybirthday wish is tohave a new homeand celebrate inmy own backyard!See you soon.

RESCUEME

“All days are nights to see till I see thee/Andnights bright days when dreams do show methee.” I am Lola. Shakespeare fan by day. Cuddle buddy by night.



COMMUNITY:: Making a Difference

PET HEROTHREE MILLION PEOPLE FLY IN ANDout of Charleston International Airportevery year and counted among them isan amazing woman whose commitmentto children and humane education isawe-inspiring.

Once a month during the school year,you will find Jennifer Whitworth wheelingher carry-on through the airport terminal,heading back to Seattle, after spendingthree days in local classrooms teaching forCharleston Animal Society.

“It feeds my soul. It’s what keeps meright with the world,” Whitworth told us,when describing why she pays for a round-trip ticket between Seattle and Charlestonevery month ($750) to teach children.“Charleston Animal Society is absolutelyamazing, which is why I am so passionateand devoted to you guys.”

Her passion is hard to miss. Sitting acrossfrom her and listening to her talk abouther experiences in the classroom, leavesyou wanting to rush out of the room, sign-up and start teaching too. Although howmany of us would fly 2,938 miles, 9 times ayear, to do that?

“Bringing animals into these classroomsto kids who may have never seen a big dogis so special. I ask, ‘how many kids areafraid of him?’ and some kids are laughing,and you know they are scared, but won’tadmit it. But by the end of class they seehow calm and amazing he can be and it islike one little step. And there have to be1,000 steps to encouraging children torespect animals,” Whitworth says.Whitworth teaches humane education to5th graders in seven classrooms at LambsElementary and Pinehurst Elementary

BY DAN KROSSE

Schools in North Charleston. It’s something’sshe’s been doing since 2010. She has abackground in social work, but it wasn’tuntil she turned 38 that she says a lightbulb went off in her head, “I didn’t knowwhat to do with social work. But when youadd animals in with the kids, it’s just like adream come true for me. “

Her devotion to teaching children is adream come true for Charleston AnimalSociety Director of Humane Education, DeDaltorio, “I tell people about Jennifer andthey look stunned. They’re amazed thatsomeone would travel that far, so often, toreach out to our community’s children, andpay for it all themselves!”

As an educator and animal lover,Whitworth is convinced that one key to abetter world is instilling compassion. “I

think that compassion is where it starts,”Whitworth said, “If you don’t at least plantthat seed so it can grow over the years,you’re lacking as an individual, there’s partof you that isn’t whole. Feeling love towardan animal or human is very powerful.”

Always the optimist, Whitworth believespeople aren’t inherently mean towardanimals, it’s often a lack of understandingabout what animals need.

“I’m so passionate about animals andkids and about getting that message outthere because animals are so forgiving, soaccepting, even when we are horrible andmean to them, because they want thatbond,” she said, “I need that light. I need tobe reminded that there’s good in the world.And this is what does it.”

Shine on Jennifer. Shine on.

Jennifer Whitworth prepares in a schoolhallway for a humaneeducation class withLouie, her three-leggedco-teacher.

CHILDRENHumane

Education

1. Crews Subaru receiving the 2015 Charleston AnimalSociety Ambassador Award: (l-r) Marketing and EventsManager Ken French, General Manager HR Hicks andowner Robert Crews receiving award from CharlestonAnimal Society Vice-President Julie Bresnan.

2. Dana Perino, host of “The Five” on Fox News, was the keynote speaker at Charleston Animal Society’sAnnual Meeting. Pictured here in the center with her dog Jasper and (l-r), Tracy Schuberg, Dana’s husbandPeter McMahon, and Jeff Schuberg.

3. Nick Bailey and his service dog Abel at Charleston International Airport, after flying home from Arizona,where Abel had received the additional training he needed, thanks to 8-year-old Rachel Mennett of Summerville (who we profiled in our last issue).

4. Charleston Animal Society Board of Directors President Elizabeth Bradham addresses the 141st Annual Meeting February 28th.

5. Kaitlyn Swicegood got this picture of her boyfriendTommy Dingle and their dog Atticus paddleboarding andenjoying the beauty of the creek near the Pitt StreetBridge In Mt. Pleasant.


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Pets • People • Places


Kids are some of the best animal advocates sowe’ve devoted this space to young pet lovers. TIME TO PLAY!

BEST SHOTS:: Photo Contest

“Abused, abandoned and neglected animalsare nothing to laugh about. No Kill Charlestonis something to believe in.”

– KEVIN NEALONActor/Comedian

MEET OUR CELEBRITY ADVOCATE

We want to see pictures of your dog out enjoying the water in the next edition ofCarolina Tails Magazine. So remember plenty of water and the sunblock and get thatpicture! Pick your favorite andsend us your best shot and we’llpublish our top 5 picks. Deadline for submission is: MAY 31, 2015. EMAIL US YOUR PHOTO TO: [email protected]

BOATING FUN: GET YOUR PHOTO ON!

CLICKAndSend



Documents

Carolina Tails Magazine - Charleston Animal Society - Spring 2015