animal answers

Local Animal Shelters Taking Part in Viral #BettyWhiteChallenge

Participants Can Donate on or Before Jan. 17 -- What Would Have Been White's 100th Birthday

SUPERIOR, Wis. – The late Betty White is being honored with a new social media challenge. The idea says that on Jan. 17 — which would have been white’s 100th birthday, people should pick a local rescue or animal shelter in their area and donate $5 in White’s name. White was a lifelong animal lover and wrote an animal book…

‘Can Do Canines’ Offers Tips to Keep Your Pets Safe Throughout the Holidays

Keeping Your Dog Healthy During the Holidays

DULUTH, Minn. – Minnesota-based ‘Can Do Canines’ is offering a list of tips and tricks to follow in order to make sure your pets have a safe and ER-free holiday season. “Holidays can be stressful, and your dog may pick up on that too. New smells, tempting foods, and strangers in the home may all lead to higher stress levels…

Minnesota Pit Bull Rescue Searching for More Foster Homes, Adopters

Based in the Twin Cities Metro Area, Minnesota Pit Bull Rescue Serves the Entire State

DULUTH, Minn. – Serving the Land of 10,000 Lakes, Minnesota Pit Bull Rescue has worked for years to pair stigmatized bully breeds with the right families after they’re moved from states such as Texas, Tennessee, Alabama, and Georgia. Just last year, they helped rescue a record number of 200 pit bulls from life-threatening situations. On average, they help place over…

October is National Adopt a Shelter Dog Month

Humane Society of Douglas County is Seeing an Increase in Dog Adoptions

SUPERIOR, Wis. – October is Adopt a Shelter Dog Month, and there’s no better way to celebrate than by bringing home a furry friend from your local shelter. The Humane Society of Douglas County is seeing more dogs come into the shelter this month, providing potential adopters with a variety of furry friends to choose from. Click here to see…

Pet Oxygen Mask Helps Save the Life of 3-Year-Old Ozzy the Pug

The Duluth Fire Department First Started Receiving Pet Oxygen Masks in 2014

DULUTH, Minn. – Pets in distress. It often happens when a fire breaks out, or during traffic emergencies. Now thanks to a partnership between the Duluth Fire Department and Duluth Veterinary Hospital, local first responders are better equipped to handle our four-legged friends. “I treat them like my kids,” said Coralie Anderson, owner of 3-year-old Ozzy the Pug. It’s a…

Visitors Flock to See Fall Migration at Duluth’s Hawk Ridge Bird Observatory

Hawk Weekend Festival is Happening Friday, Sept. 17 - Sunday, Sept. 19

DULUTH, Minn. – Each fall, millions of birds flock south, migrating to warmer climates for the winter months. Happening now, the natural phenomenon is attracting repeat visitors, and new watchers to Hawk Ridge Bird Observatory for the great fall migration. “Would you like to see 10,000 hawks in one day come right over your head?” If you ask the average…

‘H2O: Watersheds at Work,’ Set to Replace Aging Water Table Exhibit at Great Lakes Aquarium

Demo Will Begin After Labor Day; The New Exhibit is Expected to be Open by November 20

DULUTH, Minn. – Chances are if you’ve visited the Great Lakes Aquarium over the past 21 years of its existence, you’ve submerged yourself in the interactive water table exhibit, learning firsthand why H2O is so important to life on earth. Now since opening in 2000, change is coming to one of the aquarium’s most engaging displays. “It supports life, it…

Registration Now Open for 23rd Annual Cause for the Paws 5k

Proceeds from the Event Benefit the Humane Society of Douglas County

SUPERIOR, Wis. – As the dog days of summer set in, the Humane Society of Douglas County in Superior invites you to sign up for their upcoming 23rd annual Cause for the Paws 5k Walk/Run. This year the event is happening Saturday, September 18 from 8 a.m. until noon. The fun takes place at the entrance to Barker’s Island in…

After Seven-Night Rendezvous, Michigan Trucker Reunites With Missing Four-Legged Friend

Booker Bolted From His Dad's Big Rig During a Stop for Work in Cloquet

CLOQUET, Minn. – In this week’s Animal Answers, we’re sharing a lost and found story that might just have you reaching for the tissue box. It was nearly a week ago when Booker the one-and-a-half-year-old Jack Russell Terrier mix bolted from his owner’s big rig during a stop in Cloquet. “Ever since I started driving over the road he’s been…

Caring For Your Pets Post Pandemic

Tips for Helping Dogs, Cats Adjust to Life Post-Pandemic

(FOX NEWS) – With fewer COVID-19 restrictions in place, you may be spending less time at home, and that could be causing your pet emotional pain. In this week’s Animal Answers, more on the new rise in separation anxiety among dogs and cats, and how you can help them adjust to life post-COVID. Categories: Animal Answers Tags: animal answers, anxiety,…

Local Veterinarians Experiencing Influx of New Patients

Many Local Vet Clinics Have Had to Turn Away New Patients

DULUTH, Minn. – The COVID-19 pandemic has shined a light on many issues over the past year and a half, and now local vets are speaking out about the impact they’re dealing with on a daily basis. The global health crisis has kickstarted a movement known as “pandemic pets.” Local breeders and animal shelters experienced high adoption rates over the…

Lake Superior Zoo Hosting First-Ever ‘Backyard Bash’

The Backyard Bash is Happening Friday, July 30 at the Lake Superior Zoo

DULUTH, Minn. – This summer the call of the wild is calling you to the Lake Superior Zoo. On Friday, July 30, the Zoo is celebrating summer with an inaugural fundraising event. The Backyard Bash will include live music, yard games, free s’mores, and more. The staff invites you to bring your friends and family. There will be local food…

Keeping Fido Calm Ahead of Fireworks This Independence Day

Tips and Tricks for Keeping Your Animals Stress-Free as Bright, Loud Booms and Bangs Illuminate the Sky this Weekend

DULUTH, Minn. – The 4th of July is always a fun, festive time. However, for pets, it’s quite the opposite. Local veterinarians are urging pet owners and residents to be mindful of their furry friends ahead of the holiday weekend. “Stress can actually decrease their immune system,” said Brianna Piechowski, shelter veterinarian at Animal Allies Humane Society in Duluth. Independence…

American Red Cross Urges Animal Owners to Have Pet Preparedness Plan in Place

June is Pet Preparedness Month

DULUTH, Minn. – If a natural disaster were to occur, or a fire broke out in your home, would you have a plan of action? Toss the family pets into the mix, and things can get stressful during the most critical time of evacuation. That’s why the Northern Minnesota Chapter of the American Red Cross is urging pet owners to…

Finding Maxie: Minnesota Family Mourns Loss of Dog’s Remains After Vehicle is Broken Into

The Weber's Grandparents Stayed at the Radisson in Duluth Sunday, That's When The Ashes Were Stolen

DULUTH, Minn. – A Minnesota family is mourning the loss of their pet, and his remains after a senseless crime took place Sunday in Duluth. Now they’re asking you to be on the lookout so they can move forward and heal. “He was a chubby dachshund who loved treats,” said Gretchen Weber, Maxie’s owner. Its memories that keep the legacy…

Duluth Monarch Buddies Hosting Pollinator Marketplace

The Event is Happening Saturday, June 12 from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. at The Coppertop Church

DULUTH, Minn. – With the recent heatwave, more butterflies and insects are returning to the Northland a little earlier than normal. On Saturday, June 12, Northland residents are welcome to stop by the Coppertop Church in Duluth. A pollinator marketplace is being offered by the Duluth Monarch Buddies. The event will run from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m., featuring milkweed…

Registration Now Open for Upcoming Humane Society of Douglas County Fundraiser

Kickin' It For Animals Fundraiser is Happening Saturday, July 17, 2021

SUPERIOR, Wis. – You have the chance to help support the Humane Society of Douglas County this summer. The shelter is hosting their first Kickin’ It for the Animals Golf Scramble & Foot Golf Tournament. Participants will enjoy a beautiful day on Saturday, July 17 on the green at Norwood Acres Golf Course in Lake Nebagamon. A 9-hole golf scramble…

Friendly Reminders from Wildwoods as Spring Newborn Season Arrives

Wildwoods Would Like to Remind the Public to Contact Their Office Before Dealing with Wildlife, Especially Newborn Animals

DULUTH, Minn. – Spring is a time for new life, and new beginnings, especially in the animal kingdom. Come late May and early June, fawns will start to be born, and oftentimes people end up getting in between the newborns and their mother. Staff at Wildwoods Rehabilitation Center in Duluth are currently dealing with calls for baby birds, squirrels, and…

Minnesota DNR Reminds Homeowners to be Mindful of Bears

There are Three Important Things to Remember if You're Looking to Avoid Bear on Your Property

DULUTH, Minn. – It’s the most wonderful time of the year for many residents in the Northland — Spring. It’s a time for new adventures when you can finally get outdoors more, and maybe even open up the cabin a little early. With the excitement, the local division of the Minnesota DNR is reminding folks to be on the lookout…

Spring Animal Concerns: Ticks are Back, Lilies are Toxic

Dr. Robert McClellan Reminds Pet Owners That Easter Lilies Are Toxic for Cats

SUPERIOR, Wis. – Spring is an exciting time for many Northland residents, however, with the excitement and adventures comes concern for our four-legged friends. Dr. Bob McClellan with Superior Animal Hospital says it’s important to be proactive, and on the lookout as the weather starts to warm, especially with the Easter holiday weekend coming up. “Probably our best sentinels for…

The ‘Fur-Beatles’ Are Officially Back Together

Cloquet Resident and Owner of the Fur-Beatles, Joe Thompson, is Thrilled to Welcome the Final Member to His Squad

CLOQUET, Minn. – Harrison, Paul, and Ringo. Those names are synonymous with three-quarters of arguably the most recognizable band in history. But something was missing for one passionate pet owner in Cloquet. “You can’t have the Fur-Beatles with just three,” said Joe Thompson, owner of the Fur-Beatles. You may recognize Thompson from a couple of years ago when FOX 21…

Tickets Selling Fast for Lake Superior Zoo’s Easter Egg-Stravaganza

The Easter Egg-Stravaganza is Happening Saturday, April 3 at the Lake Superior Zoo

DULUTH, Minn. – Northlanders looking for some egg-stravagant fun are invited to hop on over to the Lake Superior Zoo on Saturday, April 3. The Zoo’s annual Easter Egg-Stravaganza event will be happening from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Health and safety is on the minds of organizers, which is why tickets must be purchased in advance this year. Tickets can…

Animal Allies Humane Society Hosting Two Free Microchip Clinics in March

The Clinics Are Taking Place Monday, Mar. 15, and Wednesday, Mar. 17

DULUTH, Minn. – Animal Allies wants all Northland pet owners to be aware of two upcoming free microchip clinics. They’re happening Monday, Mar. 15, and Wednesday, Mar. 17 at the shelter location along Airport Road in Duluth. The microchips will be offered on a first-come, first-served basis. “We have enough supply where it will be completely free for I believe…

Local Vet Witnessing Importance of In-Person Visits as Pandemic Continues

Many Pet Owners Prefer to be With Their Pet During Routine or Emergency Examinations

SUPERIOR, Wis. – If you’ve made an appointment for your pet in the past year, chances are you weren’t allowed inside the building as the animal receives medical attention. COVID-19 is to blame for the new protocols at many vet clinics in the northland, but it can be a frustration for those who prefer to be with their pet during…

Lake Superior Zoo Offers Unique Date Night Opportunity

"Best Date Ever" Tours Take Place Feb. 12 - 14

DULUTH, Minn. – Just in time for Valentine’s Day weekend, the Lake Superior Zoo in Duluth is offering a fun activity that allows you to spend quality time with a special someone, and your favorite furry friends inside the facility. The zoo’s annual “Best Date Ever” tours take visitors to meet the barn and Australian animals, as well as a…

Prepping Your Pet for Cold Artic Air Slated to Arrive This Weekend

A Local Veterinarian from Superior Animal Hospital Reminds Pet Owners to Protect Their Four-Legged Friends this Winter

SUPERIOR, Wis. – With high temperatures only forecasted to be hitting the single digits below zero this weekend, it’s important to remember your pets aren’t immune when it comes to battling the bitter cold. Dr. Matthew Severs with Superior Animal Hospital says pets are vulnerable to many of the same dangers humans are when the temps dip below zero. Your…

The Snake Pit Experiences Spike in Business Amid COVID Pandemic

The Snake Pit is Located 5211 Miller Trunk Highway in Hermantown

HERMANTOWN, Minn. – Pet adoptions are on the rise amid the coronavirus pandemic, and The Snake Pit is experiencing the spike firsthand. Owner Roger Hill says business has picked up while restrictions have been in place. With more people stuck at home, they’re looking for companions to care for, and cold-blooded creatures are no exception. The snake pit offers a…

Best Pet Products to Invest In For Winter Weather

A Place for Fido is Fully Stocked with Products to Keep Pets Safe During Winter Months

DULUTH, Minn. – With the bitter cold temperatures we’ve been experiencing recently, it’s important to remember our pets need extra care during the winter months ahead. Jamie Parent, owner of A Place for Fido in the Fitger’s Complex in Duluth shares a few products to help keep your pet protected from the elements. The shop recently received a large shipment…

Animal Allies Expands Goal of Rescuing Animals from Dire Situations

Staff at Animal Allies Humane Society Would Like to Complete More Transport Rescue Missions in 2021

DULUTH, Minn. – Can you imagine taking a road trip across the country with 14 animals in the back of your vehicle? For the staff at Animal Allies Humane Society in Duluth, it’s a sight they’re thrilled to see happen more often as the New Year begins. “It’s not cheap, but it’s something we want to invest in,” said Nicole…

Lake Superior Zoo Debuts New Children’s Book Just in Time for the Holidays

Donate Today to Receive Your Copy of "New Friends Arrive at the Lake Superior Zoo"

DULUTH, Minn. – A new book is bringing the education and entertainment of the Lake Superior Zoo into your home this holiday season. The book “New Friends Arrive at the Lake Superior Zoo” was written by local author and artist Joe Klander. It’s all about the arrival of the Zoo’s new bears, Tundra and Banks, and how the other animals plan…

Better Business Bureau: 2020 Yields Rapid Rise in Puppy Scams

The Wisconsin Better Business Bureau Warns Online Puppy Scams Rising Sharply in 2020

DULUTH, Minn. – The COVID-19 pandemic has increased demand for pets as people seek to add an animal to the family to ease the loneliness and stress of prolonged time at home. Many feel they now have more time to train a puppy. However, with this rising demand, the Better Business Bureau (BBB) is reporting a spike in pet scams,…

Local Vet Offers Reminders For Pet Owners as the Holidays Begin

Avoid Giving Pets Foods Such as Grapes, Raisins, Garlic, Onions, and Chocolate

SUPERIOR, Wis. – With many families choosing to celebrate Thanksgiving differently this year, what you feed your pets during the holidays hasn’t changed. Experts say when pets are fed, or get into any greasy foods rich in fat, it can results in stomach problems for several days, especially smaller animals. Dr. Justin Dahl with Happy Tails Animal Hospital in Superior says…

Lake Superior Zoo Encourages Donations During Give to the Max Day

Give to the Max Day is Happening Thursday, Nov. 19, 2020

DULUTH, Minn. – Give to the Max, Minnesota’s giving holiday, is happening on Thursday, Nov. 19, and the Lake Superior Zoo encourages you to donate something nice. The day of giving is a time when thousands of donors across Minnesota will come together for their favorite charities by making gifts through GiveMN to increase the wellbeing of our communities. Haley…

Matilda’s Dog Bakery & Boutique Experiences Huge Influx of Customers Amid COVID-19 Pandemic

With Pet Adoption Rates on the Rise, Joanne Elliott Says She's Working Around the Clock to Keep Customers Stocked on Pet Food, Treats, and Toys

DULUTH, Minn. – Throughout the pandemic, countless local businesses have been dealt with many struggles, however, for one small business owner, sales are soaring as Northlanders are adopting and spending more time with their four-legged furry friends. “It’s all about the pets this year. It’s all about puppies, kittens, adoptions; we’ve sold more kitten food in the last three months…

A Place for Fido Expanding in Duluth’s Fitger’s Complex

Jamie Parent, Co-Owner of A Place for Fido, is Aiming to Open the New, Bigger Location by Mid-November

DULUTH, Minn. – Expanding a business is no easy task, but for the owners of one local pet supply store, this year has been full of first-time adventures. The COVID-19 pandemic isn’t putting a pause on expansion plans at A Place for Fido in the Fitger’s complex. “One thing that’s super exciting is we’re going to have a lake view,”…

Coyote Problem Prompts Proctor Mayor to Contract Fur-Beatles, Owner to Investigate

Joe Thompson Estimates 15 Coyotes are Causing a Ruckus In and Around Proctor

PROCTOR, Minn. – The City of Proctor is dealing with a bit of a wildlife problem. Multiple coyotes have settled in, and it’s causing a ruckus for many residents. Instead of taking an extreme approach to dealing with the situation, the city’s mayor is calling in the famed Fur-Beatles and their owner to investigate with a humane solution in mind. “Proctor…

Pet Owners Reminded of Rodenticide Dangers as Winter Approaches

Local Veterinarians Remind Pet Owners to Book Routine Exams and Lookout for Harmful Poisions Often Used to Kill Rodents

SUPERIOR, Wis. – As winter approaches and the COVID-19 pandemic continues, local veterinarians have a reminder for pet owners, and also those in the neighborhood looking to keep rodents away. With COVID-19 continuing to cause health concerns for many, the staff at Superior Animal Hospital want to remind new and returning customers that safety is of the utmost importance for…

‘Boo at the Zoo’ Moving Forward With COVID-19 Precautions In Place

Tickets Must Be Purchased In Advance for This Year's Boo at the Zoo Event

DULUTH, Minn. – Despite concerns over the spread of COVID-19, the Lake Superior Zoo is moving forward with this year’s ‘Boo at the Zoo.’ Safety measures will be put in place to ensure social distancing. This year’s event will take place throughout three weekends in October. Tickets are currently on sale for ‘Boo at the Zoo,’ taking place October 10,…

Wildwoods Requesting Chokecherry, Raspberry Branches to Aid in Rehabilitation

Branches, Berries Help Teach the Birds How to Forage in the Wild

DULUTH, Minn. – The staff at Wildwoods Wildlife Rehabilitation Center in Duluth is asking for the public’s support as summer comes to a close. If you have any chokecherry or raspberry bushes and don’t know what to do with your bounty, you’re encouraged to drop them off at Wildwoods. The berries are used to help retrain birds how to forage…

Recent Incident Sparks Plea from Wildwoods: “Stop Littering”

The Canadian Goose Caught in String Was Cut Free, Then Transferred For Further Medical Care

DULUTH, Minn. – Millions of animals are injured or even killed annually due to the careless actions of human beings. Littering – whether it be cans, containers, string, or fishing line, these materials don’t mix well when coming into contact with animals. Wildwoods Wildlife Rehab Center in Duluth is speaking out regarding a recent incident that could have taken the…

Local Veterinarians Warn Pet Owners of Hot Vehicle Dangers

Vets Say Even on a Mild Summer Day, Vehicles Can Reach Deadly Temperatures in a Matter of Minutes

DULUTH, Minn. – As the dog days of summer set in, local veterinarians and animal control remind pet owners to think twice before leaving your animal in any vehicle. Animals can quickly suffer from heatstroke or suffocation when left in a vehicle for a short amount of time. Lindsay Neimi, medical manager at Animal Allies Humane Society, says heatstroke or…

Pet Food Donations Wanted for Dog, Cat Owners in Need

Donations Are Being Accepted at Petco in Duluth, and Dan's Feed Bin in Superior

DULUTH, Minn. – The COVID-19 pandemic is not only impacting humans but animals as well. Recently Duluthian Tina Marcella, founder of PJ’s Rescue, was approached by an anonymous donor who wanted to start a pet food collection drive to help animal owners in the Duluth region who may be having a financially difficult time due to the ongoing pandemic. Pet…

Northern Lights Cutting Center Sparks Equestrian Interest in the Northland

Talmadge River Ranch, home of Northern Lights Cutting Center, is Open for Private Lessons

DULUTH, Minn. – It’s something you may have taken part in as a kid at least once or twice – horseback riding. FOX 21’s Brett Scott digs deeper into the competition world of cutting and shows how one local family is looking to share their talent with adventure seekers living in the Northland. “I think they’re shocked that it’s something…

Experience Shearing Day at Frosty Ridge Alpaca Farm

Frosty Ridge Alpacas Will Soon Be Open to the Public for Free Farm Tours

DULUTH, Minn. – Can you imagine shearing more than 50 alpaca all in a matter of six hours? It happened Tuesday morning at Frosty Ridge Alpaca Farm located along Maple Grove Road in Duluth. “Believe it or not we sell more socks in the winter than the summer,” said Loni Blumerich, owner of Frosty Ridge Alpaca Farm. The process only…

Tips for Keeping Ticks From Latching on to Your Pets

The CDC Recommends Using Preventative Products to Avoid Tickborne Diseases

DULUTH, Minn. – It’s that time of year again! Creepy, crawly ticks are back out and ready to latch on to you and your pets. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), vaccines are not available for most of the tick-borne diseases that animals can get. That’s why local vets say it’s important for pet owners to…

Windy Weather Yields Smaller Bird Count During Spring Migration

Spring Bird Counters Set Up Near Enger Tower and Thompson Hill Depending on Wind Conditions

DULUTH, Minn. – Coronavirus has pretty much put a halt to humans traveling across the nation, but it’s not stopping birds and other wildlife from soaring back into the Northland for the summer season. “We have to be here regardless of the weather,” said John Richardson, a spring migration counter with Hawk Ridge Bird Observatory in Duluth. A windy, cold…

Veterinary Clinics Open Amid COVID-19 Concerns, New Protocols In Place

Local Vet Clinics Are Using Curbside Services to Continue Seeing Clients' Pets

DULUTH, Minn. – With several business owners closing their doors, Northland veterinary clinics are also seeing the effects of coronavirus (COVID-19). This reality is because more people are choosing to keep their pets home instead of receiving nonessential care. At Duluth Veterinary Hospital, they have protocols in place for a curbside service, where staff comes out to retrieve the pet…

Animal Allies Taking Precautionary Measures Amid COVID-19 Pandemic

Animal Allies Humane Society in Duluth Postpones Humane Education Activities, Volunteer Trainings Until End of April

DULUTH, Minn. – The COVID-19 pandemic is now impacting the animals up for adoption in the Northland. Animal Allies Humane Society in Duluth announced Wednesday morning on FOX 21 Local News that all humane education activities and volunteer trainings will be postponed until the end of April. Michelle Carter, Development Officer at Animal Allies, said the shelter is experiencing shifts…

Registration Now Open for Animal Allies Summer Camp

Summer Camps Fill Quickly at Animal Allies, Register Now to Secure Your Child's Spot

DULUTH, Minn. – The Northland is still months away from hot summer days, but it’s not stopping staff at Animal Allies from thinking summer camp. Registration is now open for camps. Staff tells FOX 21 Local News the camps fill up quickly, so it’s best to register your child sooner rather than later. The camps provide children with hands-on activities…