Posts filed under Animals

Sit. Stay. Go home. by Ali Shapiro

In puppy kindergarten class we are working on stay. Like most of the important commands, stay is taught in stages. Stage 1 is Duration. At first, the dogs only have to stay for a second or two before we release them and reward them with treats. Then, gradually, we up the ante. The dogs have to stay for ten seconds, then thirty, then a minute before the release.

Posted on August 28, 2014 and filed under Creative Nonfiction, Writing, Animals.

All Creatures Great and Small — If You Could Talk to the Animals by Judy Ramsey

When behavioral issues occur with animal friends, it can be annoying, frightening, or downright dangerous. We interpret their behaviors through our human perspectives and act accordingly. However, an animal’s behavior, influenced by survival issues and past experience, makes sense to that animal. 

Posted on August 28, 2014 and filed under Animals.

Animal Educators: The Creature Conservancy Provides a Home for Animals and Educational Opportunities for the Community

Zoos provide opportunities to see unique animals, but where can children and adults go to touch exotic animals and ask questions about them? The Creature Conservancy, an Ann Arbor-based nonprofit organization, provides that type of hands-on learning experience for children and adults.

Posted on May 1, 2014 and filed under Animals, Children, Profile, Programs.

Questions for Kathy Squiers, owner of Sylvan Run Sanctuary

By Julianne Popovec | Photos by Susie Ayer

Q. Kathy, can you tell us about Sylvan Run Sanctuary?

A. Sylvan Run Sanctuary (SRS) is a gorgeous place, peaceful and inviting — a perfect place to share special celebrations and ceremonies, either in solitude or in community. Located in rural countryside, surrounded by acres of nature preserves, Sylvan Run Sanctuary is halfway between Ann Arbor and Jackson, 16 miles to each city, and only 4 minutes from historic Chelsea. 

Posted on January 6, 2014 and filed under Authors, Animals, Profile, Pets.

Caring for Your Pet with In-Home Hospice

Death is not an easy topic. No one likes to talk about it, even when it's regarding pets. As a veterinarian, I believe the reason pet parents do not like to talk about death is fear of the unknown. Perhaps they had a bad experience in the past or heard terrible stories from friends, but whatever the case, they are left with a lot of tough questions.

Posted on December 31, 2013 and filed under Columns, Winter 2014 Issue, Animals.