- Karyn Stratton
A Note From The Editor :
Are you as relieved as I am that the holidays are over ? Sure , everyone loves Christmas , but sometimes , it ' s more fun to look back at the memorable moments a few days later because it ' s so stressful living through them . All the preparation ... all the shopping ... all the cleaning ... all the cooking - it ' s just exhausting ! Now we can all take a deep breath and hopefully feel a sense of contentment ( at least until the credit card statements arrive - lol ). We ' re thankful to have had a record year with our Bear Country Christmas Wish Program . More people , organizations , and companies donated than ever before . We were able to reach out to a record number of families and senior citizens . Distributing all those toys , clothes , and food to the families was delightful ! Our " Giving Seniors Smiles ," in which we gifted elderly folks with a radio / cd player and a stack of vintage CDs , was a huge hit ; some of them said it was simply amazing to hear the music they grew up with again , and they especially loved the visit from our volunteers ! And the items collected for the two homeless men on our list were functional , warm , and nutritious . We hope they reconsider seeking shelter and their circumstances change for the better , but it ' s a nice feeling to know we gave them a bit of comfort and support . It was incredibly rewarding , and everyone that participated was excited to be involved . Both our contributors and volunteers said it made them feel connected and fulfilled . And I am so grateful for everyone in this community that gave not only donations , but their time , which , of course , is the most valuable gift of all .
- Karyn Stratton
In This Issue :
Pet Calendar of Events ....................................... page 2 Upcoming Pet Events ......................................... page 3 Around the Hydrant : News You Can Use ......... page 4 Dispelling Spay / Neuter Myths ........................... page 4 Resolutions for an Animal Lover ....................... page 5 Breed All About It - The German Shepherd ..... page 7 Cute & Crazy Critters ........................................ page 8 Health Highlights : Cold Weather Safety ............ page 9 Adoption : A Loving Option .............................. pages 10 , 11 Pawsitively Delicious ......................................... page 12 Ask the Groomer - New Year ' s Resolutions ...... page 13 Win a Doggy Breath Freshening Kit ................. page 13 Lost Pets in Extreme Weather ........................... page 14 Subscriptions - Let Us Fetch Your Next Copy ... page 15
On our cover : " Bella "
Thanks to
Sara Miles of Bedfordshire , England
for providing us with her photo !
Pawsitively Pets -- January
1