Above, Town of Brookhaven Highway Superintendent Dan Losquadro with Holtsville Hal and Holtsville Hal’s handler, Greg Drossel.
Holtsville Hal 2022
Above, Town of Brookhaven Highway Superintendent Dan Losquadro with Holtsville Hal’s handler, Greg Drossel, revealing Hal’s 2022 prognostication.
Holtsville Hal 2022
Following the blizzard that battered Brookhaven Town this past weekend, Holtsville Hal’s 2022 prognostication was welcome news for many. After awaking from his slumber, Hal brushed the snow aside to emerge from his burrow and did not see his shadow, predicting an early spring for the Town of Brookhaven. The virtual event was livestreamed on the Holtsville Ecology Site’s Facebook page on Groundhog Day, Feb. 2.
According to tradition, if a groundhog sees its shadow on Groundhog Day, there will be six more weeks of winter weather; if not, spring should arrive early.
“After this weekend’s blizzard, I’m sure we are all looking forward to spring arriving on time and keeping our fingers crossed that our resident weatherman maintains his accuracy,” said Superintendent of Highways Daniel Losquadro.
“Regardless, the Brookhaven Highway Department remains ready to handle whatever else Mother Nature sends our way during these remaining few weeks of winter.”
Above, Town of Brookhaven Highway Superintendent Dan Losquadro with Holtsville Hal’s handler, Greg Drossel, revealing Hal’s 2022 prognostication.
This week’s shelter pet is Betty, a 10 year old, spayed female pit bull mix. Betty is a big couch potato that loves people, belly rubs and all of the treats! Her adorable snore and people-pleasing nature will steal your heart. Betty has significant arthritis and will need a home that can help her manage that. She would do best as the only pet in an adult only home and is available for adoption of Forever Foster.
If you would like to meet Betty, please call ahead to schedule an hour to properly interact with her in a domestic setting.
The Smithtown Animal & Adoption Shelter is located at 410 Middle Country Road, Smithtown. Visitor hours are currently Monday to Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. (Sundays and Wednesday evenings by appointment only). For more information, call 631-360-7575 or visit www.smithtownanimalshelter.com.
Tom Caruso captured this fleeting moment on a recent trip to Caleb Smith State Park Preserve in his hometown of Smithtown. He writes, ‘It was a beautiful day. I wandered around the park and saw several deer grazing in an open field. I circled around the field to get a better look when a herd of deer came crashing out of the woods to my right and bounded across the field. I caught this deer in full flight and it was quite a sight.’
Learn about tropical rainforest at Sweetbriar Nature Center on Jan. 23. Photo from Sweetbriar Nature Center
Programs
Star Quest!
Calling all brave explorers! The Whaling Museum, 301 Main St.. Cold Spring Harbor presents Star Quest! Thursdays to Sundays from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. through Jan. 31. Hunt for star constellations around the museum with a spyglass to navigate your journey, just like mariners at sea. Solve puzzles to find your reward — a glittery star lantern you can decorate in our workshop to light your way home. For ages 5 and older. Admission fee plus $10 per participant. Call 367-3418.
Owl Prowl
Sweetbriar Nature Center, 62 Eckernkamp Drive, Smithtown invites the community to an Owl Prowl on Jan. 20 from 6 to 8 p.m. Meet and learn about some of the resident owls at the center and embark on a walk into the darkness to enjoy the night and maybe call in an owl or two.Dress warmly, wear bug spray, and bring a flashlight just in case. Open to families with children ages 5 years old and up. $15 per person. To register, visit www.sweetbriarnc.org.
Open Play at the Explorium
The Long Island Explorium, 101 E. Broadway, Port Jefferson will present a series of hands-on interactive STEM explorations centered on the importance of the Tundra Biome and the interactions between the climate, living things, and the layers that exist beneath them all on Saturdays and Sundays from 1 to 5 p.m. throughout January. Hands-on activities, crafts, and more! $5 per person. Call 331-3277.
Growing Up Wild
The Town of Brookhaven presents an environmental program for children ages 3 to 6, Growing Up Wild, at Cedar Beach’s Nature Center, Harbor Road, Mount Sinai on Jan. 22 at 10 a.m. and again at 1 p.m. Parents and grandparents are invited to explore nature with their little ones. Each class will focus on a different nature topic and will include a story time and a related craft or activity. Free but registration is required by emailing [email protected].
How Animals Prepare for Winter
Sunken Meadow State Park, Route 25A and Sunken Meadow Parkway, Kings Park presents a program for children ages 3 to 5 titled How Animals Prepare for Winter on Jan. 22 from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Children and their parents will connect with nature through short walks, animal visitors, and crafts. $4 per child. Advance reservations required by visiting Eventbrite.com and searching for #NatureEdventure.
Family Hour Sunday
Join the Heckscher Museum of Art for a virtual Family Hour Sunday program via Zoom on Jan. 23 from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Children ages 5 through 10 are invited for a family-friendly art experience with Museum Educator Tami Wood. $10 per child. To register, visit www.heckscher.org.
Sunday Fun-Day
Sweetbriar Nature Center, 62 Eckernkamp Drive, Smithtown hosts a Sunday Fun-Day program on Jan. 23 from 2:30 to 3:30 p.m. Learn all about tropical rainforests and meet some amazing animals that live there. Best suited for ages 5 to 7. $10 per child, $5 per adult. To register, visit www.sweetbriarnc.org. For more information, call 979-6344.
Theater
‘Puss In-Boots’
Above, the cast of ‘Puss In Boots’.Photo by Brian Hoerger/Theatre Three Productions, Inc.
Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson continues its children’s theatre with Puss In Boots, a hilarious re-telling of the tale of a boy and his ingenious feline. When Christopher inherits his father’s cat, he sets out on an adventure that takes him to the palace of King Vexmus and beyond. Join them as this clever cat teaches us that faith comes from within. Performances will be held on Saturdays, Jan. 22, 29 and Feb. 5 at 11 a.m. and Sunday, Jan. 23 at 3 p.m. All seats are $10. To order, call 928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree.com. See review on page B21.
Disney’s Frozen Jr.
The John W. Engeman Theater, 250 Main St., Northport presents Disney’s Frozen Jr. Saturdays at 11 a.m. and Sundays at 10:30 a.m. from Feb. 13 to March 13. When faced with danger, princesses Anna and Elsa discover their hidden potential and the powerful bond of sisterhood. This enchanting musical features all of the memorable songs from the hit Disney film and will thaw even the coldest heart! Tickets are $20. To order, call 261-2900 or visit www.engemantheater.com.
Apu and Manjula. Photo from the Smithtown Animal Shelter
MEET APU AND MANJULA!
This week’s shelter pets are Apu and Manjula, 8-month- old domestic short hair cats up for adoption at the Smithtown Animal Shelter. Apu is a black male and Manjula is a brown tabby female.
These two beauties are low key affectionate sweethearts. They love to get petted and to play with each other. They are not bonded, but do enjoy each other’s company.The shelter’s preference would be a happy home together, but they may be separated.
If you would like to meet these sweethearts, please call ahead to schedule an hour to properly interact with them in a domestic setting.
The Smithtown Animal & Adoption Shelter is located at 410 Middle Country Road, Smithtown. Visitor hours are currently Monday to Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. (Sundays and Wednesday evenings by appointment only). For more information, call 631-360-7575 or visit www.smithtownanimalshelter.com.
Update: Tabitha has been adopted! Happy life little lady!
MEET QUEEN TABITHA!
This week’s shelter pet is Queen Tabitha, a 10-month-old domestic shorthair cat who came to the Smithtown Animal Shelter as part of their TNR program.
Tabitha was always a little shy, but gentle. She prefers quiet and solitude, but when she trusts you, she enjoys getting pets and being around other cats. She would do best in a quiet home with calm animals.
If you would like to meet this royal sweetheart, please call ahead to schedule an hour to properly interact with her in a domestic setting.
The Smithtown Animal & Adoption Shelter is located at 410 Middle Country Road, Smithtown. Shelter operating hours are currently Monday to Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. (Sundays and Wednesday evenings by appointment only). Call 631-360-7575 or visit www.smithtownanimalshelter.com.
The Guide Dog Foundation and America’s VetDogs, two Smithtown-based nonprofits that provide guide and service dogs to individuals with disabilities, is in urgent need for volunteer temp (temporary) homes across Long Island and the New York Tri-state area, to open their hearts and homes during the Omicron surge to host a puppy or trained dog, from anywhere between 1 to 3 weeks and continue to support their training during the duration of the stay.
Temp homes provide a puppy/mature dog a safe and friendly home with a loving environment where a puppy will learn, or an adult dog will maintain, housebreaking, obedience, excellent house manners, and socialization.
Requirements include a fenced in yard or access to daily and frequent walks, attend an online orientation class, access to a smart phone for virtual home check and is comfortable with emailing, texting and attending virtual classes. Veterinary care, dog food and supplies are provided by the Foundation and VetDogs.
Anyone interested in becoming a Temp Home volunteer, can apply directly online at: guidedog.org.
B-roll of Foundation puppies and dogs in training can be found here.
Jay Gao of Stony Brook snapped these incredible shots on Dec. 31, 2021 from Crane Neck Point Beach. He writes, ‘My wife and I were taking a walk from West Meadow Beach in the afternoon. When we arrived the rocky area near Crane Neck Point, to our surprise, we saw several harbor seals resting on the rocks. It was low tide, so I could get close enough to take these photos.’
Supervisor Edmund J. Smyth and his Louisiana rescue dog, Louie
Huntington Supervisor Edmund J. Smyth invites residents to participate in the Betty White Challenge sweeping the nation.
“In honor of what would have been the legendary Betty White’s 100th birthday on January 17, I’m asking her fans — and all dog lovers who can afford to do so – to donate $5 in her name to our Give a Dog a Dream charity, which funds medically necessary surgeries for shelter dogs in need, or donate a wish list item to our shelter,” said Supervisor Ed Smyth.
While the Huntington Animal Shelter takes donations of all types of items (blankets, detergent, food, etc.), the items the shelter needs most are flat collars (sizes M, L, XL), flat leashes, treats, and indestructible toys.
Give a Dog a Dream Inc. is a charitable 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that specializes in veterinary care and advanced dog behavior modification training. Proceeds fund medically necessary surgeries and behavior modification training for Town of Huntington Animal Shelter dogs.
Due to COVID-19-related staffing shortages, the Huntington Animal Shelter is open by appointment only at this time; please call ahead to drop off items or schedule a visit with our dogs at (631) 754-8722. The Huntington Animal Shelter is located at 106 Deposit Road, East Northport, NY 11731 Monday-Friday (8am – 6pm), Weekends (9am – 4pm). After-Hours Emergency Calls Only (631) 351-3234.
The Town of Huntington Cat Shelter, located next door to the dog shelter (at 104 Deposit Road), is managed by Little Shelter Animal Rescue and Adoption Center. For details on donating to the cat shelter, please call (631) 651-9788.
The #BettyWhite Challenge encourages fans of the late actress, who was an animal advocate and passed away on December 31, 2021 at the age of 99, to donate $5 to animal rescues and shelters in her name. January 17, 2022 would have been White’s 100th birthday.
Welcome to the first Paw Prints, a monthly column for animal lovers dedicated to helping shelter pets!
Shelter Pets of the Month
Randi
Meet Randi!
This inquisitive young lady is Randi, a 5-year-old tabby available for adoption at Little Shelter Animal Rescue & Adoption Center in Huntington. Randi wants to watch whatever you are doing, and then double-check your work! This beauty likes to play and be pampered. Why not stop by and visit with her? Call 631-368-8770 for more information.
Barney
Meet Barney!
Barney is available for adoption at the Smithtown Animal Shelter. This lowriding handsome man is a Dachshund mix believed to be 10 to 12 years old. He seems to have slight hearing and sight impairments and his hips are significantly arthritic. He is happy to go for walks and be around people and has a fighting spirit. Barney would do best with quiet dogs his size and in a home with older children. Call 631-360-7575.
Rudy and Sophia
Meet Rudy and Sophia!
Rudy, an 11-year-old Yorkie mix, and Sophia, an 11-year-Bassett Hound are up for adoption at Little Shelter in Huntington. These bonded friends eagerly reconnect with wagging tails, swapping stories and catching up on one another’s day before setting off on their walks. Social and outgoing, this duo will expand your world, drawing others into your circle with their charming personalities. They like other dogs and cats and would do best in a home with children ages 12 and up. Call 631-368-8770.
Paw News
Betty White Challenge
Fans of the late Betty White have found a great way to honor the beloved actress. The “Betty White Challenge,” an online event set for Jan. 17, on what would’ve been the TV icon’s 100th birthday, has been gaining steam among fans online. The social media challenge encourages people to donate $5 to their favorite animal shelters and animal-welfare groups in her name. Read more about Betty White on page B23.
Adopt, don’t shop
Each year, it’s estimated that more than one million adoptable dogs and cats are euthanized in the United States, simply because too many pets come into shelters and too few people consider adoption when looking for a pet. The number of euthanized animals could be reduced dramatically if more people adopted pets instead of buying them. When you adopt, you save a loving animal by making them part of your family and open up shelter space for another animal who might desperately need it.
Free adoptions
To celebrate the legacy of Betty White, Little Shelter Animal Rescue, 33 Warner Ave., Huntington will waive adoption fees to qualified adopters for senior cats and dogs, 10 years or older, from Jan. 17 to 21. For more information, call 631-368-8770.
5 tips to keep pets safe and warm this winter
Just as people prepare their homes, cars and families for extreme temperatures and weather events of winter, it’s important to remember pets’ needs this time of year. As cold weather sets in, Dr. Jennifer Freeman, DVM, resident veterinarian at PetSmart, shares these tips to prepare and ensure your pets are warm and happy throughout winter.
Take caution when outdoors
When temperatures reach levels of extreme cold, Freeman recommends limiting outdoor walks and monitoring your pet’s behavior for signs of stress or discomfort. Letting your dog outside to use the bathroom or go for a quick walk is OK, but never leave a pet outside for a long period of time, especially during a winter storm. “Don’t let your dog off its leash after snowfall, as snow can mask familiar scents,” Freeman said. “This can cause your pet to become disoriented or lost if they get too far away.”
Add extra layers
Despite efforts to limit time outdoors, your pet needs to go outside for bathroom breaks and exercise. Pets who are small, short-haired, old or have any health issues or illnesses may be more sensitive to cold weather. Pet sweaters can help keep your pet warm. If your pet is shivering, that’s a sign they need extra layers. To help trap body heat and protect paws from extreme cold, consider using booties when venturing outside.
Watch out for hazardous chemicals
Many people use snow-melting products like deicers, antifreeze and salt, which can cause skin irritation and be fatal if ingested by your pet. Pet parents should keep an eye on their pets when they’re outside and be mindful of hazards. After a walk, it’s important to thoroughly rinse your pet’s paws and stomach especially after walking in areas where these products are frequently used.
Keep skin protected
Just like humans, many pets get dry skin during the winter. When your pet needs a bath, try using a pet-friendly moisturizing shampoo to help keep skin healthy and hydrated. If your pet’s skin seems extra dry, supplements like fish oil can be added to your pets’ food to help the skin and coat. It’s important to keep an eye on skin health and check with your vet if issues persist as they could be signs of larger problems.
Ensure ID information is current
While winter emergencies may add to the importance, it’s crucial your pet wears a tag displaying your phone number year-round. Microchip and register your pet with current contact information and tuck a copy of their vaccination and medical records, veterinary contact information and a current photo in your emergency kit
*Check out the next Paw Prints in theissue of February 10 in print and online.
Welcome to the first Paw Prints, a monthly column for animal lovers dedicated to helping shelter pets!
Just as people prepare their homes, cars and families for extreme temperatures and weather events of winter, it’s important to remember pets’ needs this time of year. As cold weather sets in, Dr. Jennifer Freeman, DVM, resident veterinarian at PetSmart, shares these tips to prepare and ensure your pets are warm and happy throughout winter.
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