Ancient practices help local pets relieve pain and regain mobility

TAMPA – Everything old is new again, especially in the world of veterinary medicine. Acupuncture is becoming increasingly popular among the most progressive of pet owners as a great option for controlling pets’ pain and treating a variety of ailments.

NEW PORT RICHEY — Dogs may be “man’s best friend” but they still need training and socialization before they become well-behaved companions. While every dog has a unique personality and temperament, training provides a solid foundation for good behavior and habits and helps puppies and new owners bond.

By Janel Heflin, Special to The Laker

NEW PORT RICHEY — As Sept. 13 nears, hundreds of animal lovers are gearing up for the fifth annual Fur Ball, a benefit for the Humane Society of the Nature Coast Inc.

While the Humane Society of the Nature Coast Inc.’s headquarters are on Wiscon and Mobley roads in Brooksville, the event draws sponsors and crowds from Pasco, Hernando, Pinellas and Hillsborough counties, and some from even farther destinations for a fabulous night of fun, fur and fund-raising at the Palace Grand, 275 Della Court, on US 19 just north of County Line Road, which separates Pasco and Hernando counties.

RUSKIN -- Feline Folks is meeting on Wed. Sept. 10 at 7 p.m.. Topic is Reducing Feral Cat Populations with Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR). There will be hands on humane trap training. Location is South Shore Regional Library, 15816 Beth Shields Way, Ruskin. Free. Questions? E-mail Info@FelineFolks.org or call 944-7651.

WESLEY CHAPEL — Many teachers welcome their students back to school with the addition of a classroom pet – as a result, children often ask their parents for a first pet at home. If that happens to your family, Vickie Sargent-Kler, who operates Petland of Wesley Chapel, and Carrie Buzbee, who operates Petland of Lutz, are ready to help.

Carrie can be reached at (813) 908-7387 or via e-mail at carrie.buzbee@petland.com. Vickie can be reached at (813) 973-7667 or via e-mail at vickie.sargent-kler@petland.com.

According to Petland, a small animal, or "pocket pet," is a good match for a child who is interested in becoming a first-time pet owner.