Why 12,000 Surgeries Matter
To the average person, 12,000 might just look like a statistic. To our shelter staff, it represents 12,000 lives improved and countless generations of unplanned litters prevented.

Pet overpopulation is the root cause of shelter overcrowding. By providing high-volume, high-quality sterilization, Dr. Creek is effectively is limiting the number of unwanted animals entering our regional shelter system. His dedication ensures that fewer animals face homelessness, neglect, or the risk of euthanasia.

Bringing Affordable Care to Bowling Green
The impact of Dr. Creek’s work is amplified by our partnership with the BISSELL Pet Foundation. Thanks to their Fix the Future® initiative, the Hotaling Spay/Neuter Clinic is able to offer a life-changing rate for local pet owners: $25 Low-Cost Spay and Neuter

We believe that financial barriers should never stand in the way of responsible pet ownership. This $25 rate includes the surgery performed by a national leader in the field, right here in our community.

How You Can Join the Mission
Preventing overpopulation is a community effort. You can help us "Fix the Future" in Bowling Green by:

• Scheduling Your Pet: If your pet isn't fixed yet, take advantage of our $25 low-cost option.
  
• Spreading the Word: Many pet owners simply don't know that affordable options exist.
  
• Thanking a Vet: Next time you see Dr. Creek or our clinic staff, let them know you appreciate their hard work!

We are honored to have a national top-performer leading the way at the Hotaling Clinic. Thank you, Dr. Creek, for your tireless work and for being a true champion for the animals of Warren County.

To schedule an appointment at the Hotaling Spay/Neuter Clinic, visit bgshelterpets.com/clinic or call us at 270-783-9404.

Cooper’s story is a powerful reminder that for Doodle breeds (Labradoodles, Goldendoodles, Bernedoodles, etc.), grooming is not a luxury — it is essential medical care. Severe mats are more than messy — they cause constant skin pain, hide infections, and can even conceal life-threatening weight loss. To help our community of Doodle owners, we’ve put together a guide on how to manage these complex coats and ensure your pup is healthy beneath the fluff.

The "Line Brushing" Technique
Doodles have a unique coat that often consists of a soft undercoat and a curlier topcoat. If you only brush the surface, the hair near the skin will tangle into "pelts."
How it works: Use a slicker brush and a metal "greyhound" comb. Part the hair down to the skin and brush from the skin outward in small sections. Once you think you’re done brushing, run a metal comb through the fur. If it catches, there is a mat starting that needs attention.

The 6-to-8 Week Rule
Doodle hair doesn't stop growing. Unlike breeds that shed, Doodles require a professional "full groom" (bath, haircut, ear cleaning, and nail trim) every 6 to 8 weeks. Waiting longer doesn't just result in a "shaggy" look; it leads to matting that pulls on the skin, causing bruising and sores. In severe cases, these mats can even cut off circulation to a dog's limbs or tail.

Understanding the "Puppy Coat" Switch
Around 6 to 12 months of age, your Doodle will transition from their soft puppy coat to their adult coat. This is the danger zone for matting. During this time, the puppy hair gets trapped in the emerging adult hair, creating "insta-mats." During this transition, daily brushing is non-negotiable.

If Things Get Out of Control
Many owners feel guilty when a groomer tells them their dog needs to be "shaved down" to the skin. Please don't. If a dog is matted to the skin, "dematting" (brushing out the knots) is incredibly painful and traumatic for the dog. A "sanity shave" is the most humane choice. It allows the skin to breathe, heals sores, and gives you a fresh start to maintain a healthy coat as it grows back.

We are so happy that Cooper is now in a home where he will never have to feel the weight of a matted coat again. By staying educated and consistent with your grooming routine, you can ensure your Doodle lives a life that is as comfortable as it is cute.

✅ Safe and Simple Holiday TreatsIf you want your pet to participate in the holiday feast, stick to small, plain portions of these safe options:

• Plain White Turkey Meat: A small amount of fully cooked, boneless, skinless, and unseasoned turkey breast is a great source of lean protein for dogs or cats.
• Plain Sweet Potatoes: Sneak some out to share with your pup BEFORE you add the butter, salt, sugar or marshmallows!
• Plain Pumpkin: A tablespoon of plain, canned pumpkin puree (NOT pie filling) is not only a yummy treat for dogs, it can be good for digestion, too!
• Plain Green Beans & Carrots: Can be a healthy snack raw or cooked. Again, sneak these treats out for your dog before adding the butter, salt, and seasonings.
• Your Pet's Regular Meal: To make them feel included, mix a tiny amount of a safe treat (like plain turkey) into their usual food!

⚠️ Toxic and Dangerous FoodsKeep these popular Thanksgiving items strictly out of paw’s reach. They can cause severe digestive upset, organ damage, or even be fatal:

• Turkey Bones, Skin, & Fat: Cooked bones can splinter, causing choking, an obstruction, or internal punctures. Fatty turkey skin and rich gravies can trigger pancreatitis (a life-threatening inflammation of the pancreas).
• Onions, Garlic, Leeks, & Chives: Found in stuffing, gravy, and many side dishes, these are toxic to both dogs and cats and can lead to red blood cell damage and anemia. Cooking does not remove the toxicity.
• Grapes, Raisins, & Currants: Often found in stuffing or desserts, these can cause rapid and potentially fatal kidney failure in dogs.
• Chocolate: Contains Theobromine, which is toxic to pets. The darker the chocolate (like in many holiday desserts), the higher the risk.
• Xylitol (Artificial Sweetener): Found in sugar-free baked goods and some peanut butter, this is highly toxic to dogs and can cause a rapid drop in blood sugar, seizures, and liver failure.
• Unbaked Yeast Dough: Raw dough can expand in the stomach, causing painful bloat (a life-threatening condition), and the yeast produces alcohol, leading to alcohol poisoning.
• Rich Gravy, Stuffing, or Seasonings: These are typically too high in fat, salt, and spices (often containing hidden onions/garlic) which can cause severe digestive upset.

🏡 General Safety Reminders for the HolidayEven beyond the food, it's a good idea to keep these tips in mind to ensure a stress-free holiday for your furry family members:

• Secure the Trash: Turkey carcasses, twine, and food scraps in the garbage can be irresistible—and very dangerous. Use a locking lid or keep the trash in a secured room.
• Pet-Proof the Kitchen: With constant cooking, it's easy to drop ingredients. Block off the kitchen with baby gates to prevent pets from sneaking a bite of a dropped onion slice or raw dough.
• Inform Your Guests: Politely ask guests NOT to feed your pets any table scraps, no matter how much they beg. Many well-meaning guests are unaware of pet food dangers.
• Create a Retreat: If you have a large gathering, set up a quiet, safe room (like a bedroom or crate) with a comfortable bed, water, and favorite toys so your pet can escape the noise and chaos.

If you suspect your pet has ingested a toxic substance, contact your veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (888-426-4435) immediately.
From all of us at BGWCHS, we wish you and your furry family a very happy and safe Thanksgiving!

As the leaves change and the fun of Halloween approaches, it’s a spooky-fun time for humans, but it can be a stressful and dangerous season for our beloved pets. Constant doorbell ringing, costumed strangers, and most importantly, tempting treats, pose real risks to your furry family members.

Here at BGWCHS, we want to help you ensure your pet's October is full of treats, not tricks! Here are the most critical safety hazards every pet owner needs to be aware of this month:

🍫 The Dangerous Delight of Candy
The biggest threat this month comes from the trick-or-treating haul. While any candy in excess can cause an upset stomach, some items are highly toxic:

• Chocolate: This is the classic Halloween danger. The darker the chocolate, the more potent and toxic the compounds are to dogs. Keep all chocolate well out of reach.
• Xylitol (Birch Sugar): This sugar substitute, often found in sugar-free gum, candies, and some baked goods, is highly poisonous to dogs. Even small amounts can cause a rapid, life-threatening drop in blood sugar and liver failure. Always check ingredient lists!
• Wrappers: Aluminum foil or cellophane wrappers, even without the candy, can cause intestinal blockages if swallowed.

🕯️ Decoration Dangers & Fire Risks
Your pet’s curiosity combined with spooky decor can create an emergency:

• Open Flames: Never leave a lit candle unattended, even inside a pumpkin. A curious or spooked pet can easily knock it over, starting a fire or causing serious burns. Opt for battery-operated LED candles instead.
• Swallowing Hazards: Keep string decorations, fake cobwebs, and small plastic decorations (like spiders or bats) out of reach. These items can cause choking or severe blockages if chewed and swallowed.
• Electrical Cords: Ensure lighting cables are secured. Chewing on live electrical cords can lead to dangerous shocks or burns.

🚪 Anxiety and The Great Escape
Halloween night is chaotic, which can trigger intense anxiety in many pets:

• The Doorbell Dread: The constant ringing and streams of loud, costumed strangers can be terrifying. For their safety and comfort, create a quiet, safe haven for your pet in an interior room (like a laundry room or spare bedroom). Give them their favorite bedding and toys.
• Panic and Bolting: Anxious pets are more likely to make a panicked dash for the open door. Make absolutely certain that your pet is wearing its up-to-date ID tags and that their microchip information is current. A microchip is your best chance of reunion if they do escape.

🦸 Costume Conundrums
If you plan to dress up your pet, follow these tips:

• Prioritize Safety: Ensure the costume does not obstruct your pet's vision, hearing, breathing, or ability to move comfortably.
• Test for Tolerance: Only use costumes if your pet is genuinely comfortable. If they show signs of stress (flattened ears, hiding, or struggling), skip the outfit!

By taking a few simple precautions, you can protect your pets from the unseen hazards of the holiday and ensure everyone has a safe and happy October!

The vaccines are available every Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday, 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Learn more at bgshelterpets.com/walk-in-vaccines.

Your new best friend is counting on you to keep them safe, healthy, and protected for a lifetime of love and adventure.

School is in session! Whether you have a new puppy or a long-time companion, a refresher on positive reinforcement is a great way to strengthen your bond and ensure your dog is a well-behaved member of the family. Positive reinforcement is all about rewarding the behaviors you want to see, making training a fun and effective experience for both you and your pet.

The Foundation of Positive Reinforcement
The core idea is simple: reward good behavior. When your dog does something you like—like sitting on command or staying off the furniture—you immediately give them something they value. This could be a tasty treat, a favorite toy, or even praise and attention. The key is to deliver the reward within a few seconds so your dog understands exactly what they did right.

The Five Basic Commands
Even if your dog knows these already, a quick refresher can reinforce their skills.

• Sit: Hold a treat near your dog's nose. Slowly move your hand up and over their head. As their head goes up, their bottom will naturally go down. Once they sit, say "Sit," and immediately give them the treat.
• Stay: Ask your dog to "Sit." Say "Stay" and hold your hand up like a stop sign. Take one small step back. If they stay, immediately return and reward them. Gradually increase your distance and the time you ask them to stay.
• Come: When your dog is distracted, say "Come" in a happy, excited voice and open your arms. When they come to you, reward them with a treat and lots of praise. Never scold them for taking too long to "come"—you want them to associate this command with a positive experience.
• Down: With your dog in a sitting position, hold a treat in your hand and move it from their nose down to the floor between their paws. As they follow the treat, they will naturally move into a "down" position. Reward them once they are lying down.
• Leave It: Hold a treat in a closed fist. When your dog tries to get it, say "Leave it." Once they stop trying and look away, open your hand and give them a different, more desirable treat. This teaches them that ignoring something good leads to something even better.

​Remember, training is a journey, not a destination. Consistency, patience, and positive reinforcement are the keys to a well-behaved and happy dog.