A WALK IN THE CLOUDS
Jay Gao captured this incredible shot of a juvenile American white ibis at West Meadow Beach in his hometown of Stony Brook on Aug. 16
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Shelter Pet of the Week: Louise
MEET LOUISE!
This week’s shelter pet is Louise, a 7-year-old tabby cat currently up for adoption at the Smithtown Animal Shelter.
This petite beauty is as outgoing and loving as they come. Found as a stray by a Good Samaritan in July, Louise was looking for love (and food) the second she arrived at the shelter.
This little lady has advanced kidney disease so she may have months or just a year or two, but it will be packed with love and affection.
If you would like to meet Louise, 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.townofsmithtownanimalshelter.com.
Kids Korner: August 25 to September 1, 2022
PROGRAMS
Intro to Fishing Clinic
Join the staff at Caleb Smith State Park Preserve for an Intro to Fishing Clinic at scenic Willow Pond on Aug. 27 from 10:30 a.m. to noon. for a children’s introduction to catch and release fishing. Discover the different types of fishing poles, tackle, and bait, and which is best to use in a fresh water pond. View casting demonstrations and a lesson on the different types of fish that make Willow Pond their home. Then stay for some catch and release fishing! Poles, tackle, and bait will be provided. For children under age 15. $4 per child. Advance registration required by calling 265-1054.
Family Fun Day
The Shoppes at East Wind, 5768 Route 25A, Wading River host a Family Fun Day on Aug. 27 and 28 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wait, summer’s not over yet! As you gear up for the next school year, let’s end the summer with an awesome time for the entire family.witn music and games, face painting, a bounce house, Erik’s Reptile Edventures, crafts and much more! $20 per child at the door includes all activities (except carousel); parents are free with paying child. Questions? Call 846-2370.
Nature Discovery
Sunken Meadow State Park, Sunken Meadow Parkway, King Park presents a Tiny Tots program for children ages 3 to 5 titled Nature Discovery on Sept. 1 from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. The program will connect children and their parents with nature through short walks, animal visitors, and crafts. . $4 per child. Call 269-4333 to register.
Build a Pirate Ship
Shiver me Tuesdays! The Whaling Museum, 301 Main St., Cold Spring Harbor presents a Pirate Ship Workshop every Tuesday in August from 2 to 4 p.m. Adults and kids can design and build a unique pirate ship model from a variety of wooden materials and more during this drop-in program. Complete your craft with a Jolly Roger! Bring your imagination. Kids, bring your adults for supervision. Admission + $10 participant. Questions? Call 367-3418.
FILM
Disney’s ‘Moana’
The 5th annual Farmingville Flicks Movie Series concludes with Disney’s Moana on Aug. 25 at the Local Church, 1070 Portion Road, Farmingville at dusk. Presented by Farmingville Hills Chamber of Commerce and Sachem Public Library. Bring seating. Free but registration is required by visiting www.farmingvillechamber.com.
‘Princess Mononoke’
The Cinema Arts Cenre, 423 Park Ave., Huntington continues its Cinema For Kids series with a screening of Princess Mononoke on Aug. 28 at noon. Inflicted with a deadly curse, the young warrior Ashitaka heads west in search of a cure. There, he stumbles into a bitter conflict between Lady Eboshi, the proud people of Iron Town, and the enigmatic Princess Mononoke, a young girl raised by wolves, who will stop at nothing to prevent the humans from destroying her home and the forest spirits and animal gods who live there. Featuring the voice talents of Gillian Anderson, Billy Crudup, Claire Danes, Jada Pinkett Smith, and Billy Bob Thornton. Tickets are $12 adults, $5 children. Call 423-7610 for more information.
THEATER
‘Knuffle Bunny’
From Aug. 5 to Sept. 3, the Smithtown Center for the Performing Arts, 2 East Main St., Smihtown will present Mo Willems’ Knuffle Bunny: A Cautionary Musical from Aug. 5 to Sept. 3. Trixie, her father, and her favorite stuffed bunny set off on a trip to the laundromat. The trip brings wonder, excitement and joy to the lively toddler until she realizes that she has lost Knuffle Bunny. Filled with adventure, song and dancing laundry, it’s the perfect show for a family-friendly outing! Tickets are $18. To order, visit www.smithtownpac.org.
‘Junie B. Jones The Musical’
Children’s theater continues at the John W. Engeman Theater, 250 Main St., Northport with Junie B. Jones The Musical from July 23 to Aug. 28. Sneak a peek into the “Top-Secret Personal Beeswax Journal” of the outspoken and lovable Junie B. Jones! Based on the top selling children’s book series, this upbeat musical follows the spunky Junie as she navigates through the ups and downs of her first day of 1st grade. All seats are $20. To order, call 261-2900 or visit www.engemantheater.com.
Shelter Pet of the Week: Blaze
Shelter Pet of the Week
This week’s shelter pet is Blaze, a long time resident at the Smithtown Animal Shelter. A 9-year-old pit mix, he is a very protective dog and will need a home that can manage this. His trust can be easily bought with treats and a person he trusts doing the introductions. Once Blaze loves you, it is forever. He likes to play ball, carry toys around, go for walks, splash in the pool and, above all, eat! He is a regular tough guy until it’s cold and rainy, then he becomes a little baby. Blaze would be best suited to an adult only home with no other pets.
If you would like to meet Blaze, please call ahead to schedule an hour to properly interact with him 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.townofsmithtownanimalshelter.com.
Ask the Vet: Life’s not always a beach for dogs
By Matthew Kearns, DVM
The summer is not over and what better way to spend a hot day than to go to the beach and there is no better friend to bring than your happy canine. Just be aware that there are also hazards at the beach for your dog.
Saltwater/Seawater: Saltwater is a hyperosmotic. Hyperosmotic means the large amount of salt in seawater pulls fluid to it. Pulling fluid from the body into the gastrointestinal tract not only causes severe vomiting and diarrhea and secondary dehydration, but also can pull water from the tissues surrounding the brain. This will cause a secondary cerebral edema, or brain swelling and neurologic signs like seizures.
The second concern are the microscopic creatures living in the water. Seawater contains increased levels of bacteria from runoff, as well as cyanobacteria (blue green algae). These microorganisms can cause severe gastrointestinal symptoms, potential sepsis, and neurologic symptoms. If the beach is closed to humans, it is probably not a good day to walk with your dog on the beach even if they want to go into the water.
Cuts/lacerations/burns to feet: Cuts on dogs footpads are quite common on the beaches of the north shore of long island. We usually get 4-5 cases at our clinic alone each summer and we are not even an emergency clinic. Shells, sharp rocks, broken glass can all cut deeply into a dog’s pad. Sand, bacteria and other debris can then get into these open wounds. Also remember that the asphalt in the parking lot can become very hot leading to burning of the pads.
It is best to purchase some protective booties (if your dog will leave them on) to protect their feet from these sharp objects and excessive heat.
Toxicity: Not long ago this summer a couple brought their 5-month-old puppy into the clinic disoriented and difficulty walking. They had been walking on the beach that evening and the puppy was off leash. He did not return and, when they found him, he was in the condition I described above.
When the owners arrived, I was not sure what had happened but I knew the puppy needed to be monitored overnight. We immediately transferred this puppy to the emergency clinic and, at the emergency clinic, the puppy was diagnosed with marijuana toxicity. Rotten food and other sharp objects such as bones, etc are a concern for toxicity, intestinal obstructions, or perforations. Therefore, be careful with your dog off leash that they don’t get into anything that may have been discarded.
Heat stroke/sunburn: There really isn’t any shade at the beach unless you bring a beach umbrella with you. Remember that affects our dogs as well. Make sure to provide them with shade, do not let them run around excessively during the hottest time of the day, and apply sunscreen protection to hairless areas if you will be at the beach all day with your dog.
Please enjoy a day at the beach with your dog, but also take certain precautions to make sure the day is enjoyable for you both.
Dr. Kearns practices veterinary medicine from his Port Jefferson office and is pictured with his son Matthew and his dog Jasmine.
Paw Prints: Meet shelter pets Butterscotch, Patch, Chai, Betty Boop, Robert, Dandelion, Jan and Marsha!
Welcome to the eighth edition of Paw Prints, a monthly column for animal lovers dedicated to helping shelter pets find their furever home!
Meet Butterscotch & Patch
These five-month-old Labrador mixes recently arrived at Little Shelter in Huntington via the Passage to Freedom Program and are quickly acclimating to New York life on their road to adoption. Eager about the prospect of finding their forever homes, they can hardly contain their excitement, as evidenced by enthusiastic wiggles and wagging tails! Gentle, sweet-spirited, and slightly goofy, it’s easy to see why Labradors are Americans favorite breed. Stop by to meet Butterscotch (female) and Patch (male) and choose the one that’s just right for your family. *Butterscotch & Patch are not yet fully grown nor completely housebroken.* Call 631-368-8770, ext. 21.
Meet Chai
A beautiful balance of smooth and spicy, this five-month-old Shepherd mix is Chai, currently up for adoption at Little Shelter in Huntington. Full-bodied and fun-loving, she is ready to find her forever home and begin her life as part of a loving family. Intelligent and intrigued by everything around her, she’ll show you the world through puppy dog eyes, renewing your appreciation for the simple things. Eager to learn and develop into her best self, she’ll quickly move to the top of the class during obedience training, proudly wearing the title of “best girl”. Stop by Little Shelter today and request to meet the most delicious Chai! *Chai is not yet fully grown nor completely housebroken.* Call 631-368-8770, ext. 21.
Meet Betty Boop
Betty has been waiting at the Smithtown Animal Shelter for her knight in shining armor for a very long time. A low key and loving 10-12 year old spayed female pit bull mix, Betty suffers from significant arthritis of the hips and knees and will need a home that can manager her medications. She is available for adoption or Forever Foster. Betty loves all people, but must be the only pet in an adult only home. She will roll over for belly rubs from absolutely anyone and loves food and snuggles! She also likes to dip her feet in the kiddie pools and shred dog toys. Betty hates to be away from people and would love to be by your side all day long, though she deals with her alone time well. Snuggle up with Betty and be lulled to sleep by her adorable snore. Call 631-360-7575.
Meet Robert
Robert is a short-haired, adult/senior male waiting at Little Shelter for his furever home. He enjoys being around people and seeks out attention from everyone! Come meet this happy gentleman! Call 631-368-8770, ext. 36.
Meet Dandelion
Dandelion, a three-year-old Boxer mix, was recently rescued from a shelter in Texas and is now safe at Kent Animal Shelter in Calverton. A bundle of sunshine, she LOVES to snuggle, get ear rubs, go for walks, play with other dogs, chew on her toys, and meet new people! She is affectionate, outgoing, smart, eager to please, energetic, and would make a wonderful family dog! She is as sweet as pie and has even spent some time in a foster home learning some good manners. Will you make Dandelion’s day and come visit her? Call 631-727-5731, ext. 1.
Did you know? The Town of Brookhaven Animal Shelter, 300 Horseblock Road, Brookhaven currently has many beautiful kittens available for adoption including Jan and Marsha, pictured above. Visit www.brookhavenny.gov or call 631-451-6950.
Check out the next Paw Prints in the issue of. Sept. 8.
Paw Prints is generously sponsored by Mark T. Freeley, Esq.
CEED holds quail release at Longwood Estate
On July 19, Town of Brookhaven Supervisor Ed Romaine and Councilman Michael Loguercio were on-hand for the annual Northern Bobwhite Quail release at Town of Brookhaven’s Longwood Estate in Ridge. The bird release is a program sponsored by the Town of Brookhaven, and the Center for Environmental Education and Discovery (CEED).
The 75 birds were released to help control the tick population, especially the deer tick, which is a carrier of Lyme disease. Working with the Center for Environmental Education and Discovery (CEED), students from Shoreham-Wading River, Longwood Library, Shirley-Mastic Community Library, Mt Sinai School District, and Middle Country School District assisted in raising Northern Bobwhite Quail for release into the wild.
Once abundant on Long Island, Northern Bobwhite Quail are released annually in Brookhaven Town to help control the tick population, especially the deer tick, which is a carrier of Lyme disease. Visit the CEED website to learn more about CEED and their Northern Bobwhite Quail Release programs in other communities. The annual Quail release at Longwood Estate is administered by the Town of Brookhaven’s Department of Recycling and Sustainable Materials Management (RSMM).
Pictured left to right during the release of the Northern Bobwhite Quail are CEED Executive Director Sally Wellinger; Councilman Michael Loguercio; CEED Wildlife Biologist, Program and Site Director, Eric Powers; CEED volunteer Olive Archer; Supervisor Ed Romaine and CEED supporter David Pate.
Shelter Pet of the Week: Dexy
MEET DEXY!
Check out those peepers! This stunning lady is Dexy, a gray and white tabby cat currently up for adoption at the Smithtown Animal Shelter.
Estimated to be approximately one year old, Dexy is as affectionate and outgoing as a cat can get. She came to the shelter as a stray with her kittens and has won over everyone’s heart. This sweetheart would be a wonderful addition to any home.
If you would like to meet Dexy, 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.townofsmithtownanimalshelter.com.
Pal-O-Mine Equestrian awarded $500 grant by AMVETS for its military program
Pal-O-Mine Equestrian, Inc. of Islandia, a private, not for profit organization providing a comprehensive therapeutic equine program using horses to facilitate growth, learning and healing for children and adults with disabilities, was awarded a $500 grant by AMVETS, the most inclusive Congressionally-chartered veterans service organization open to representing the interests of 20 million veterans and their families.
The funds will be applied to support Pal-O-Mine’s Military Programs and in particular, assist veterans and their family who are experiencing difficulties associated with post-traumatic stress). Pal-O-Mine is an EAGALA Military Services Provider, whose programs benefit veterans from the Vietnam, Gulf, Iraq and Afghanistan Wars, as well as service men and women who fought in Operations Iraqi Freedom, Operation New Dawn, Operation Enduring Freedom, and active duty service members. Also supported with these programs are 9-11 and first responders, and military and first responder family members.
Clinical evidence and decades of human experience demonstrate the ability horses have in helping people work through emotional barriers. Through its EAGALA Designated Military Program, Pal-O-Mine’s EAGALA licensed and certified professionals provide their specialized training and experience to assist military service members and their families with equine-assisted psychotherapy and learning.
“We appreciate the great work AMVETS does on behalf of our nation’s veterans and share their mission of helping veterans who have given of themselves to protect our nation, the freedoms we have, and democracy around the world. AMVETS’ support of our military programs will be put to good use in meeting this goal,” said Pal-O-Mine founder and CEO Lisa Gatti.
About Pal-O-Mine
Founded in 1995 by Lisa Gatti, Pal-O-Mine is a private, not for profit organization providing a comprehensive therapeutic equine program using horses to facilitate growth, learning and healing for children and adults with disabilities, as well as those who have been abused or neglected, veterans and the economically compromised. Pal-O-Mine offers a broad range of programs many of which involve the organization’s herd of therapy horses and livestock. Pal-O-Mine relies on grants and contributions from private citizens, foundations and businesses to help raise funds. For more information on Pal-O-Mine, visit:www.pal-o-mine.org or call: 631-348-1389.
About AMVETS
AMVETS, which is also known as American Veterans, is the most inclusive Congressionally-chartered veterans service organization open to representing the interests of 20 million veterans and their families. The organization of veterans serving veterans was founded in 1944 and chartered by an act of Congress. AMVETS has over 250,000 members nationwide. Its mission is to enhance and safeguard the entitlements for all American Veterans who have served honorably and to improve the quality of life for them, their families, and the communities where they live through leadership, advocacy, and services. Membership in AMVETS is open to anyone who honorably served or is currently serving in the U.S. Armed Forces, including the National Guard and Reserves. AMVETS has made a long-term economic impact by providing assistance, jobs, and services to veterans and their communities for more than 70 years. For more information, visit: https://amvets.org/
Loose lynx captured and brought to temporary home in Smithtown
A lynx was captured and brought to Sweetbriar Nature Center in Smithtown after roaming around the Town of Islip for three days.
On July 29, Suffolk County Executive Steve Bellone (D) and Suffolk County Police Department officials announced the capture of the lynx. It was first spotted on the loose July 26. The SCPD received a call on July 29 that the animal was seen on Hawthorne Avenue in Central Islip after a few sightings around the town. Third Precinct and Emergency Service Section officers captured it after it was tranquilized with the help of Frankie Floridia, from Strong Island Animal Rescue League, who brought the animal to Sweetbriar.
The SCPD has not confirmed who the owner of the lynx is.
Now named Leonardo De Catprio, after he arrived at the nature center, the veterinarian examined him and found he had some parasites, ear mites and a small wound on his face and mouth, according to Janine Bendicksen, the center’s director of wildlife rehabilitation and curator. Overall, he was in good shape and estimated to be around a year old.
She said she was in the vet’s office when Leonardo was being examined. His mouth is big, she said, with teeth 2 inches long. As he was being sedated, he swatted and roared.
“It was just scared,” she said. “I’m sure it has a very sweet side, too. You just don’t know. It’s a wild animal.”
Bendicksen said Leonardo is currently not visible to the public as lynxes are nocturnal.
“It’s not something that wants to interact with the public,” she added.
A GoFundMe page organized by a Sweetbriar employee has raised more than $2,400 toward a $3,000 goal as of Aug. 3. The money will go toward the care of the lynx as well as for the specialized food he needs.
“It eats a lot,” Bendicksen said. “It’s 35 pounds now, and it’s probably going to double in size.”
She added owning such a pet is illegal. Lynx do not make good house pets, she said, and people shouldn’t be fooled by their cuteness.
“They’re very cute and very sweet when they are young, but when they become adults, they’re not pack animals,” Bendicksen said. “They become solitary. They become aggressive. They become territorial. They don’t want to be with their momma and daddy and family anymore. They want their own territory and do things on their own.”
The deep-wooded animals, which are not native to the area, are known to travel as far as 7 miles when they hunt, according to Bendicksen.
Eventually, the lynx will be moved to a sanctuary once an appropriate one is found. The Suffolk County Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals and New York State Department of Environmental Conservation are helping in the efforts to find Leonardo a new home.
“It is an unusual thing for us to have at Sweetbriar,” she said. “We deal with
native wildlife.”
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