{"id":602,"date":"2018-04-12T20:57:03","date_gmt":"2018-04-13T00:57:03","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/stjindy.com\/?p=602"},"modified":"2018-04-12T20:57:03","modified_gmt":"2018-04-13T00:57:03","slug":"features-8","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/stjindy.com\/newindy\/?p=602","title":{"rendered":"Features"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><strong>Maple River Migration tour<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><iframe loading=\"lazy\" width=\"560\" height=\"315\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/t4hCT32XRW4\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"autoplay; encrypted-media\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe><br \/>\n<em>Photos by Ducks Unlimited local Clinton County Chapter chairman, Chris Mikula and Dave Bowers, DU volunteer.<\/em><\/p>\n<p>The Maple River Migration tour last Saturday morning was hosted by Ducks Unlimited and partners from the US Fish and Wildlife Service, Michigan DNR, and the Audubon Society at the Maple River State Game Area located North of St Johns off of US 127.<\/p>\n<p>It was another huge success with a large gathering of folks coming out to tour and learn about this unique place and the conservation efforts behind it on a nice, sunny, but cool spring day. This was the third year for this event.<\/p>\n<p>These wildlife photos show just a few of the diverse array of what can be seen at Maple River during a tour and chance to see this great habitat right in our own back yard. Many ducks, geese, swans, sandhill cranes, great blue herons, ospreys, a northern harrier, red-winged blackbirds, kingfishers and many other different birds were seen during the tour. It was a great opportunity to see the Maple River State game area and all of the unique wildlife and habitat.<\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<p><strong>Big Lug helps celebrate March is Reading Month<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><iframe loading=\"lazy\" width=\"560\" height=\"315\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/rXZEPMTuDF8\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"autoplay; encrypted-media\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe><\/p>\n<p>Here are some pictures from our March is Reading Month Celebration Assembly. A special thank you goes out to Mr. Ferden, Ms. Harrant, and Ms. Moran for organizing the activities this month. Organizers would also like to thank Farm Bureau Insurance, Lansing Lugnuts, Ryan&#8217;s Roadhouse, Detroit Pistons, and St. Johns-Ovid Masonic Lodge for donating prizes for the event.<\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<p><strong>Chamber Ambassadors help celebrate Grand Re-Opening<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/stjindy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/04\/stvincent-1.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"333\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-605\" \/><\/p>\n<p>The Clinton County Chamber of Commerce Ambassadors joined the St. Vincent de Paul Thrift Store for their Grand Re-Opening Celebration on Tuesday. Special thanks goes to Fr. Mike Williams for blessing the new space in service to others.<\/p>\n<p>If you couldn&#8217;t make the open house, you are welcome to stop by Mon- Fri 10-5 and Sat 10-1 at 1009 S. US-27 in St. Johns.<\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<p><strong>A Look Back<\/strong> &#8211; Husband and Wife<\/p>\n<p>by Barry Clark Bauer<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/stjindy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/04\/cmh.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"500\" height=\"353\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-607\" \/><\/p>\n<p>The only information we have on this photo is that this is Mr. and Mrs. Douglas and they\u2019re sharing the same hospital room. We don\u2019t usually see this.<\/p>\n<p>My guess it\u2019s the results of an automobile accident. Hopefully the readers will know more about it.<\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<p><strong>Bennie and Jessie&#8217;s Pet Info<\/strong> &#8211; Dog Constipation and How to Treat It<\/p>\n<p>Dog constipation is defined as the inability to defecate normally. Much like humans, older dogs are more prone to this condition, though it can happen to any breed of dog at any age. Constipation in dogs should not be ignored, as extended periods of distress can cause serious health concerns.<\/p>\n<p><em>What To Watch For<\/em><\/p>\n<p>A constipated dog, especially if it is well-trained and evacuates at regular intervals daily, is described as being constipated if it is experiencing difficult bowel movements and physical distress. (In addition, severe diarrhea and colitis may lead to straining.) Grass particles, matted feces, string, or other objects in or around the anus is also indicative of constipation. The size of the feces will be abnormally small and once the condition has progressed, lethargy, vomiting, and loss of appetite may develop.<\/p>\n<p><em>Primary Cause<\/em><\/p>\n<p>The most common cause of dog constipation is swallowing objects that are not easily digested, if at all, such as a piece of dry bone. However it can also be caused by:<\/p>\n<p>&#8211; Slower intestinal processes<br \/>\n&#8211; Enlarged prostates<br \/>\n&#8211; Concurrent kidney disease<br \/>\n&#8211; Hernias<br \/>\n&#8211; Simply swallowing grass or hair<\/p>\n<p><em>Immediate Care<\/em><\/p>\n<p>If you can see a thread or string in the anus, do not pull it. This can cause internal damage. Other important things to note:<\/p>\n<p>&#8211; Always wear rubber gloves when dealing with feces and related anal problems.<br \/>\n&#8211; If you can see grass in the anus, gently ease it out.<br \/>\n&#8211; If feces are matted around the anus, trim carefully with scissors. (For long-haired dogs, see below.)<br \/>\n&#8211; Wash the anal region with warm, soapy water and apply a soothing, water-soluble jelly (such as K-Y) to the inflamed area.<br \/>\n&#8211; Take the dog\u2019s temperature. If it is abnormally high or there is blood on the thermometer or resistance when inserting the thermometer, see your veterinarian immediately (within 24 hours).<\/p>\n<p>Long-haired dogs, especially small ones like Yorkies and Lhasa Apsos, can become frantic with the discomfort caused by matted feces around the anus and the trimming process. You may need to soak the dog\u2019s posterior in warm water before you begin trimming to make it more comfortable.<\/p>\n<p><em>Veterinary Care<\/em><\/p>\n<p>Diagnosis<\/p>\n<p>Radiographs, abdominal ultrasound and blood work are some of the more common tests recommended for identifying the underlying cause of the constipated dog.<\/p>\n<p>Treatment<\/p>\n<p>In some cases, a dog may need to be hospitalized and given enemas to remove or pass an obstruction located in the anus. If in doubt, or in the cases noted above, call your vet and have the dog examined. Fluids under the skin may be administered to ensure good hydration to the intestinal tract. In cases of intact males where the prostate is the cause of the constipation, castration will be recommended. And in severe cases of constipation, your veterinarian may administer fluids intravenously.<\/p>\n<p><em>Living and Management<\/em><\/p>\n<p>Some dogs have a history of periodic constipation, especially as they get older. Adding a little mineral oil to the dog&#8217;s meal can help in these cases. The proper dosage for a dog is 1 tsp for every 11 lbs (5kg). However, you should never administer the oil orally; if it ends up in the lungs, which can occur easily, it can cause pneumonia. Your veterinarian may also recommend stool softeners as well as fiber supplementation to assist in the intestinal transit.<\/p>\n<p><em>Prevention<\/em><\/p>\n<p>Although it is natural for a dog to eat grass on occasion, this habit should be controlled as much as possible. Avoid giving your dog bones; substitute a nylon chew toy instead. Use purpose-made laxatives to soften the stool and above all else, provide your dog with water regularly. Neutering your dog at an early age will also prevent growth of the prostate, which can lead to constipation in dogs.<\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<p><strong>Letters<\/strong> &#8211; Relay  and Fowler K of C say thanks<\/p>\n<p>Relay For Life of Clinton County would like to recognize Dana and the great employees at Swany\u2019s Pub for hosting this year\u2019s Community Give Back \/ Stick A Fork In Cancer event on March 26th.<\/p>\n<p>If your business is interested in hosting a Stick A Fork In Cancer event or any other sponsorship questions please contact Winn at 517.204.0565 or <a href=\"mailto:Amy197602@yahoo.com\">Amy197602@yahoo.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>******<\/p>\n<p>The Fowler Knights of Columbus would like to thank everyone that helped make this year&#8217;s Easter Egg Hunt a success. A special thank you goes to McDonalds of St. Johns for donating gift certificates, Fowler Public Schools for allowing us the use of their grounds and to the Knights of Columbus members and their families who volunteered their time to help with this event.<\/p>\n<p>Thank you all,<br \/>\nScott Schrauben<br \/>\nFowler Knights of Columbus<\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<p><strong>Maralyn&#8217;s Pet Corner<\/strong> &#8211; 7 Common Cat Tail Injuries<br \/>\ncourtesy of Maura McAndrew<\/p>\n<p>A cat\u2019s tail is often inextricable from his personality, whether it is curled peacefully around him in repose or flicking impatiently as he waits for food. \u201cA cat&#8217;s tail has multiple functions,\u201d says Teri Skadron, doctor of veterinary medicine at Skadron Animal Hospital in West St. Paul, Minnesota. She notes that tails are used for balance, communication, to keep warm, and for self-expression.<\/p>\n<p>Because of these reasons, it\u2019s important for pet owners to keep their cats\u2019 tails free from injuries and infections. Thankfully, says Heather DiGiacomo, veterinarian and owner of Newtown Square Veterinary Hospital in Newtown Square, Pennsylvania, tail injuries are relatively uncommon in cats. \u201cOutdoor cats are more at risk,\u201d she says, \u201cso keeping cats indoors can dramatically reduce the incidence of tail injuries.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>If you can\u2019t keep Felix from exploring the outdoors, it\u2019s useful to be aware of the dangers. With the help of our experts, we\u2019ve compiled a list of common cat tail injuries so you can best prevent and treat them, and keep that expressive appendage in optimal health.<\/p>\n<p><em>Bite Wounds<\/em><\/p>\n<p>DiGiacomo explains that bite wounds are one of the most common cat tail injuries seen in her practice. \u201cPresumably this happens when the cat is running away and the other animal latches on to the tail,\u201d DiGiacomo explains. Even if the bite wound is small and can heal on its own, Skadron emphasizes that more serious problems can arise. \u201cIt is important to make sure the wound doesn&#8217;t get infected,\u201d she says. \u201cSigns of infection include redness, heat, pain and inflammation.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>To minimize the risk of infection, it\u2019s best to have a cat with a significant bite wound treated by a veterinarian. DiGiacomo explains that vets will often sedate a cat with a serious wound in order to \u201cflush\u201d the area completely. The cat will then likely be prescribed antibiotics and possibly pain medication. Depending on the situation, Skadron adds that pet owners may have to clean the tail at home to prevent infection. Outdoor cats should be kept indoors while healing, to prevent fly larvae from growing in wounds.<\/p>\n<p>Given the high risk of cat fights between outdoor cats, it\u2019s also important to keep your pet\u2019s rabies vaccinations current.<\/p>\n<p><em>Abrasions<\/em><\/p>\n<p>If your cat has a simple abrasion, whether it\u2019s a scratch or small cut, this is one case where it\u2019s probably okay to keep your cat at home and monitor her healing. \u201cFor minor abrasions or wounds, owners can use hydrogen peroxide to keep the tail clean,\u201d Skadron says. Be as gentle as possible while cleaning, and use a clean cloth or gauze. If it isn\u2019t too severe, the wound will likely heal in time with minimal treatment.<\/p>\n<p>However, \u201cit is important to watch for any signs of infection,\u201d Skadron notes, \u201cor if the cat holds or moves the tail differently.\u201d This behavior can indicate a more serious injury and is a worth getting checked out by a professional.<\/p>\n<p><em>Skin Infections<\/em><\/p>\n<p>While some skin infections result from the aforementioned types of trauma, like an untreated wound from an animal bite, the most common causes are flea bites or allergic reactions. Whatever the cause, if the skin becomes inflamed, red, and itchy, it\u2019s best to consult your vet about treatment.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cCats with flea dermatitis require treatment for the fleas to eliminate the primary inciting cause,\u201d DiGiacomo says. \u201cMany of these kitties will also need steroids to help reduce their severe itching and sometimes antibiotics if they have a secondary skin infection.\u201d Keeping pets on year-round flea prevention medication can prevent this problem in cats.<\/p>\n<p>And while you may be inclined to treat your cat\u2019s skin infection at home with over-the-counter ointments, DiGiacomo advises against it. \u201cTopical medications such as antibiotic creams and ointments should be avoided in cats, as most cats will lick and ingest the topical medication,\u201d she warns.<\/p>\n<p><em>Fracture or Dislocation<\/em><\/p>\n<p>Fractures and dislocations of the tail are often seen with trauma, such as getting hit by a car or getting the tail inadvertently stuck in a door, says Skadron. Sometimes symptoms\u2014such as a drooping tail\u2014make this type of injury easy to spot. But these injuries are not as obvious as something like bite wounds, so a veterinarian may need to perform an x-ray to discover a fracture or dislocation.<\/p>\n<p>While minor tail fractures can often heal on their own, more serious injuries might require amputation, Skadron says. While this may sound scary, she notes that most cats \u201cdo just fine\u201d after surgery and that they\u2019re able to adapt and function surprisingly well without a tail.<\/p>\n<p><em>Degloving<\/em><\/p>\n<p>Although not as common as other injuries, your cat may experience a degloving injury if he or she is hit or dragged by a car. Degloving is when \u201can extensive amount of skin is torn away from the underlying tissue on the tail,\u201d Skadron explains. These injuries can be very serious, and require immediate treatment by a veterinarian. According to an article on treating degloving injuries from the peer-reviewed journal Clinician\u2019s Brief, skin, tissue, muscle, and even bone can be torn away by friction, and debris and bacteria can be embedded in the wound, causing infection.<\/p>\n<p>Due to these factors, degloving injuries in cats usually require surgery. \u201cThe treatment for a degloving injury is usually amputation of the tail to the point where there is normal tissue,\u201d Skadron says.<\/p>\n<p><em>\u201cFan Belt\u201d Injuries<\/em><\/p>\n<p>\u201cI\u2019ve also seen a number of cats with what we call \u2018fan belt\u2019 injuries,\u201d DiGiacomo says. \u201cThis happens in cold weather when a cat seeks out the warmth of a recently parked car engine. When the car is re-started, the tail can be trapped and pulled into the running car engine.\u201d This type of injury can cause paralysis of the tail and nerve damage. And even more concerning, \u201cthis can sometimes injure the nerves that supply the bladder, so the cat may be unable to urinate,\u201d DiGiacomo explains.<\/p>\n<p>The usual treatment for fan belt injuries is tail amputation. It\u2019s crucial to seek immediate veterinary care, especially if your cat is unable to urinate. While tail amputation can be effective in restoring a cat\u2019s bladder function, fan belt injuries sometimes do irreparable damage and may even lead to death.<\/p>\n<p><em>Self-Mutilation of the Tail<\/em><\/p>\n<p>Some cat tail injuries are also the result of self-mutilation. Flea allergies, food allergies, and stress may contribute to this type of injury, says DiGiacomo. \u201cBut less commonly, self mutilation of the tail may be caused by a condition called feline hyperesthesia syndrome,\u201d she says.<\/p>\n<p>Feline hyperesthesia syndrome, DiGiacomo explains, is a \u201cpoorly understood condition where cats exhibit twitching or \u2018rolling\u2019 of the skin and fur along the spine.\u201d This can cause the cat extreme discomfort, which may prompt him or her to \u201cseverely self-traumatize the skin.\u201d Veterinarians will often treat this condition with gabapentin, she says, a pain relief medication also used to treat seizures.<\/p>\n<p>Self-mutilation related to simple skin irritation can be treated the same way as a skin infection, with antibiotics and occasionally steroids prescribed by a veterinarian. And with any kind of self-mutilation, you may have to employ the trusty \u201ccone of shame\u201d as well: \u201cSometimes an Elizabethan collar [is required] to prevent self-trauma until the skin heals,\u201d DiGiacomo says.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Maple River Migration tour Photos by Ducks Unlimited local Clinton County Chapter chairman, Chris Mikula and Dave Bowers, DU volunteer. The Maple River Migration tour last Saturday morning was hosted by Ducks Unlimited and partners from the US Fish and Wildlife Service, Michigan DNR, and the Audubon Society at the Maple River State Game Area <a class=\"read-more\" href=\"https:\/\/stjindy.com\/newindy\/?p=602\">Read More<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[2],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-602","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-features"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/stjindy.com\/newindy\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/602","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/stjindy.com\/newindy\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/stjindy.com\/newindy\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/stjindy.com\/newindy\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/stjindy.com\/newindy\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=602"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/stjindy.com\/newindy\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/602\/revisions"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/stjindy.com\/newindy\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=602"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/stjindy.com\/newindy\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=602"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/stjindy.com\/newindy\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=602"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}