​In the world of animal welfare, there are numbers that tell a story, and then there are numbers that change the future. At the Bowling Green Warren County Humane Society (BGWCHS), we are currently celebrating the 12,000 spay and neuter surgeries performed by Dr. Jeremy Creek in 2025.
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We have always known that Dr. Creek is a local hero, but the rest of the country is starting to take notice, too. Recently, the BISSELL Pet Foundation recognized Dr. Creek as the top-performing veterinarian in their nationwide Fix the Future® program.

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.

​When Cooper arrived, he was trapped in some of the most severe matting we’ve ever seen. He looked fluffy at first glance, but the scale showed us that this dog was hiding a serious issue. The truth was revealed after the groomer got to work. Cooper was dangerously emaciated. His thick coat was hiding his skeletal frame from the world.  

The good news? Cooper is on the mend, progressing well, and his new parent is a veterinarian committed to his health and well-being!

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!

Congratulations, you're a new pet parent! This is an incredibly exciting time filled with cuddles, playtime, and a whole lot of love. As you settle into your new routine, the most important thing you can do for your puppy or kitten is to protect their health.

While they may seem happy and healthy now, puppies and kittens are incredibly vulnerable to common, but deadly, viruses. Their young immune systems aren’t yet strong enough to fight off these diseases, but you can give them the superpower they need: vaccines.

What are You Protecting Them From?
Vaccines work by training your pet's immune system to recognize and fight off specific viruses. The vaccinations provided at a young age, followed by a series of boosters, are a critical shield against life-threatening diseases.

For Puppies
The DaPPV vaccine for dogs and puppies protects against a host of dangerous viruses:

• Distemper
• Adenovirus
• Parvovirus
• Parainfluenza

These are often highly contagious and can be fatal, making a full vaccine series a non-negotiable part of your puppy's healthcare.

For Kittens
The HCP vaccine for cats and kittens provides protection against three serious illnesses:

• Feline Herpesvirus (Rhinotracheitis)
• Feline Calicivirus
• Feline Panleukopenia viruses

With illnesses like panleukopenia spreading rapidly this year, giving your kitten their full round of vaccines is more important than ever.

Free Boosters for Lifelong Protection
Both of the important vaccines described above are FREE at the BGWCHS Hotaling Spay/Neuter Clinic. Simply bring your pet anytime during our business hours to receive the free vaccine. 

Remember, just like humans need a flu shot every year, your pet needs a booster to maintain their immunity. Your new pet's first set of shots is a start, but their long-term health depends on consistent, yearly boosters.

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.

This week, our region is expecting heat index temperatures well over 100°. It’s uncomfortable weather for everyone, and it can pose serious health risks for our furry friends!
The Silent Danger: What is Heatstroke?
Heatstroke is a severe and often fatal condition that happens when a pet's body temperature rises to a dangerous level, and they’re unable to cool themselves down. Unlike humans, who sweat efficiently through their skin, dogs primarily cool themselves by panting. Cats also pant, but they're more subtle and typically seek out cool, shady spots. When it's very hot and humid, panting isn't enough, and their internal temperature can skyrocket, leading to organ damage, brain swelling, and even death.
Pets most at risk include:

• Brachycephalic (short-nosed) breeds: Pugs, Bulldogs, Boxers, Persian cats, etc., have difficulty breathing and cooling efficiently.
• Older pets: May have underlying health conditions or be less able to regulate body temperature.
• Very young pets: Their thermoregulation isn't fully developed.
• Pets with heart or lung conditions: Already have compromised respiratory systems.

Recognizing the Warning Signs of Heatstroke:
Knowing these signs can save your pet's life. If you see any of these, act quickly:

• Excessive panting (heavier than normal)
• Difficulty breathing or noisy breathing
• Drooling excessively
• Bright red gums or tongue
• Weakness, dizziness, or stumbling
• Vomiting or diarrhea
• Seizures or collapse

If you suspect heatstroke, it's a veterinary emergency!
Immediate Action for Suspected Heatstroke:

1. Move your pet to a cooler area immediately. Get them into air conditioning or a shaded spot.
2. Apply cool (not ice cold) water. Wet their fur, especially on their ears, paws, and underbelly. You can use a hose on a gentle setting or wet towels. Do NOT use ice water, as this can cause blood vessels to constrict and actually hinder cooling, or even induce shock.
3. Offer small amounts of cool water if they are conscious and able to drink.
4. Get to the vet immediately! Even if your pet seems to be recovering, internal damage from heatstroke can be significant and needs medical attention.

Preventing Heatstroke: Essential Summer Safety Tips
Prevention is key! Here's how to keep your furry friends safe when the temperatures rise:

• Hydration is Crucial: Always provide access to fresh, cool water. If you're out, bring a portable water bottle and bowl. 
• Never Leave Pets in Hot Cars: Temperatures inside a car can rise to deadly levels within minutes, even on a mild day with windows cracked. This is one of the most common causes of heatstroke and can be fatal.
• Limit Outdoor Time: Avoid walks, runs, or strenuous play during the hottest parts of the day. Stick to early mornings or late evenings.
• Provide Shade: If your pet must be outside, ensure they have access to shade. A kiddie pool with a few inches of water can also be a fun way for dogs to cool off.
• Consider Paw Protection: Remember the "Seven-Second Rule" for pavement! If it's too hot for your bare hand, it's too hot for their paws. Opt for grass or consider dog booties.
• Grooming: For pets with thick coats, regular grooming can help remove excess fur and improve air circulation, but avoid shaving double-coated breeds, as their undercoat provides insulation against both heat and cold.

Indoor Fun: Keeping Pets Engaged When It's Too Hot Outside
When the heat index is soaring, bringing the fun indoors is essential! 

Here are some ideas to keep your pet mentally and physically stimulated:

• Puzzle Toys & Treat Dispensers: These are fantastic for mental exercise. Fill them with kibble or healthy treats and let your pet "work" for their reward.
• Indoor Agility/Obstacle Course: Use pillows, blankets, and furniture to create a low-key obstacle course in your living room. Guide your pet through it with treats.
• Training Sessions: Practice new tricks or reinforce old ones. Short, fun training sessions can be very engaging and tiring for their brains!
• Hide-and-Seek (for treats or toys): Hide their favorite toy or some treats around the house and encourage them to sniff them out.
• Interactive Play: Use feather wands for cats, or engage in gentle tug-of-war in an air-conditioned space.
• Frozen Treats: Make homemade "pup-sicles" with pet-safe broth, pureed fruit/veg, or peanut butter in ice cube trays. Check out these recipes https://articles.hepper.com/frozen-dog-treat-recipes.
• "Find It" Game: Hide a treat in one of your hands and have them guess which one.
• Socialization (Indoors): If you have pet-friendly friends, consider an indoor playdate in a cool environment.

By taking proactive steps and knowing the signs of trouble, you can ensure your beloved pet enjoys a safe, fun, and healthy summer. Stay cool, Bowling Green!

Summer in Southern Kentucky means sunshine, outdoor adventures, and often, scorching concrete and asphalt! While we slip on our sandals, our furry friends are walking directly on these blistering surfaces with their bare paws. Concrete and asphalt absorb and retain heat incredibly well. On an 85° day, asphalt can reach a staggering 140°! That's hot enough to cook an egg in five minutes.

Prolonged contact with surfaces this hot can cause painful burns, blisters, and even permanent damage to your pet's paw pads. Unlike shoes, their paw pads don't offer much insulation from extreme temperatures. While your pet might not immediately cry out, they could be suffering. Keep an eye out for limping, excessive licking of paws, or reluctance to walk.