Animals

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…

‘Boo at the Zoo’ Returns for Three Weekends in October

'Boo at the Zoo' is Happening Saturday, October 16, 23, and 30

DULUTH, Minn. – The annual family-fun fall tradition of ‘Boo at the Zoo’ returns to the Lake Superior Zoo on Saturday, October 16, 23, and 30. Each day we will have 9, 2-hour time slots for guests to choose from. This year, there are no capacity limits at this time and the timeframe is your arrival time. 9 am –…

Facebook Page Created to Help Displaced Pets from Fires in Northeastern Minnesota

The Page 'Greenwood Fire Displaced Pets' is Receiving Countless Inquiries From People Looking to Help Displaced Pets, Animals

DULUTH, Minn. – Pets, and livestock are also living in the path of the Greenwood fire and others burning in Northeastern Minnesota. Now a group of local animal lovers and veterinarians is looking to help out where they can. The group is calling themselves, ‘Greenwood Fire Displaced Animals’ on Facebook. Currently, more than two dozen people have reached out, offering…

Lake Superior Zoo Fundraising for Purchase of Advanced Medical Equipment

Over $3,000 Was Recently Raised to Purchase a New Machine to Help Better Serve the Medical Needs of the Animals

DULUTH, Minn. – When it comes to taking take of lions, tigers, bears, reptiles, and more, the medical bills add up quickly. That’s why the Lake Superior Zoo continues to ask for your support with fundraising and donations. “Veterinary care at the Lake Superior Zoo is a huge expense, but it’s something that is very important to us when we…

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…

New Pet Grooming Service Open in Superior

Purr-fectly Superior Grooming opened in June of 2020 but has taken off as of late with more people opting for a more personal grooming style.

SUPERIOR, Wisc. – A new mobile grooming service is now open in Superior. Purr-fectly Superior Grooming opened in June of 2020 but has taken off as of late with more people opting for a more personal grooming style. Owner Amy Laessig says, along with bringing her unique services to your home she also helps educate the owners about pet maintenance…

Humane Society of Douglas County Hosting Virtual ‘Paws for Love’ Fundraiser

The Fundraiser Ends Sunday, April 25 at 9 p.m.

SUPERIOR, Wis. – The Humane Society of Douglas County Paws for Love fundraising event is taking place virtually in 2021. The auction event is happening now, and will run through Sunday, April 25 at 9 p.m. Tickets are free in 2021. Organizers say they will still have a wonderful silent auction and heartwarming informational videos. Guests will have nine full…

Tips to Avoid Catastrophe During National Dog Bite Prevention Week

Dogs Need Help Overcoming the Effects of the Past Year of Social Isolation, Added Stress

DULUTH, Minn. – This week, April 11-17, is National Dog Bite Prevention Week, and this year there are more reasons than ever to learn about preventing dog bites. From high-profile “nipping incidents” in the news, to the realization that there may be millions of dogs and puppies in new homes since the beginning of the pandemic. Over the past thirteen…

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…

Animal Allies Receives Wrapping on New Transport Van

The non-profit was able to raise $60,000 through their 2019 Fur Ball fundraiser

DULUTH, Minn. – Animal Allies Humane Society has just received wrapping on their brand new transport vehicle. The non-profit was able to raise $60,000 through their 2019 Fur Ball fundraiser and just received the new transport van in May of 2020. This past week, Animal Allies received new wrapping. The van will be used to take animals for vet appointments…

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…

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…

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…

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…

MPCA Warns of Blue-Green Algae Dangers for Dogs

Two Dogs Have Died in Minnesota This Summer After Coming into Contact with Blue-Green Algae

DULUTH, Minn. – A toxic form of algae continues to take over area lakes, rivers, and ponds. Just this summer, two dogs in Minnesota have died after swimming in water tainted by blue-green algae. As we reach the dog days of summer, officials who research the growth often are looking to alert pet owners of potential danger. “You can’t identify…

Amid Decline in Business, PacKare Duluth Continues to Bring Pets Daily Joy

PacKare Duluth Experiences a More Than 50 Percent Decline in Business During COVID-19 Pandemic

DULUTH, Minn. – One thing you’re still allowed to do under a ‘Stay at Home’ order is get outside and enjoy the great outdoors with social distancing in mind. Many animals in the Northland are getting more walks than normal during this difficult time. One local pet care business is considered essential to stay open, but the owner is seeing…

Wildwoods Animal Rehabilitation Temporarily Closes

DULUTH, Minn. – Duluth based non-profit animal rehab organization “Wildwoods” is temporarily closed. As of Thursday the building will no longer accept any orphaned, sick or injured animals. The closing is due to their support services. There is no timeline for when the building will re-open, but the animal rehabilitation center will be training new staff members. Wildwoods will also…

Donations Impacting Decisions at Animal Allies Humane Society

A Stray Chihuahua is Struck and Left on the Side of a Duluth Road; Healing Hearts and Paws Fund to Pay for Emergency Surgery

DULUTH, Minn. – Throughout the years, FOX 21 has reported on countless fundraising efforts by Animal Allies Humane Society in Duluth. In this week’s Animal Answers, donors get a first hand look at how continued support and generosity is making an impact on a daily basis. This week, staff at the shelter have had to make many decisions based on…

Keeping Fido Calm During Fourth Festivities

A Place for Fido Offers a Variety of Products to Help Keep Animals Calm During Stressful Situations

DULUTH, Minn. – Anxiety medications are flying out the doors of local veterinary clinics and hospitals this week along with other treats, toys, and materials used to keep animals calm as humans prepare to blast off fireworks to celebrate independence. “We do get a lot of anxiety ridden dogs that come in this time of year,” said Jamie Parent, Owner…

Animal Answers: As Temperatures Rise, Police Warn of Hot Vehicle Dangers

Duluth Police Department Advises Calling 911 if an Animal is Showing Signs of Heat Exhaustion Inside a Vehicle

DULUTH, Minn. – Every year, PETA estimates nearly 100 animals will die due to negligence and heat exhaustion from being locked inside a hot vehicle. Officials say at just 70 degrees, a vehicle’s inside temperature can quickly reach well over 120 degrees. “It is deadly to leave your pet in a car in the summer time. It can happen faster…

Dirty Dog? Experts Express Routine Grooming Habits

Staff at Bark Avenue are Working Around the Clock to Keep up with Spring Grooming

DULUTH, Minn. – As the weather warms up in the Northland and water hoses start turning out, we often think about bath time for out dogs after a long winter without. Local groomers are working around the clock right now to help your pets maintain a clean bill of health, and also make sure your home stays smelling fresh and…

Aquatic Drop Off

Students at UMD today got a refresher on if they can't take care of their pet, to properly get rid of it

DULUTH, Minn.- Many think that pets like turtles are easy to take care of but some of their owners might not realize what type of workload they are taking on. And today, the group Habitattitude held an event at UMD where Northlanders could turn in their unwanted fish, aquatic plants, and reptiles so they can be give a healthier home…

Young Girl’s Wish Granted at Lake Superior Zoo

Make-a-Wish Foundation surprises girl with trip to San Diego Zoo.

DULUTH, Minn.- Sometimes, a trip to the zoo is all you need to have a good day. On Sunday, Lake Superior Zoo donated some space, and time with animals to help make it a very special day for one girl who’s battled cancer twice. “A Lizard!” “Oohs” and “aahhs” are a normal sound at the Zoo. But today is no ordinary…

Science Night at Lester Elementary

The Parent Teacher Association was behind Thursday's "Science Night"

DULUTH, Minn.- Tonight, Lester Park Elementary School turned into a massive “Science Night” for students and their families. Dozens of kids got to get in on all types of demonstrations, from the Duluth East Robotics teams to live science experiments, to even live animals like baby turtles. Daniel Tandberg, a father in attendance, said “it’s great to see so many different…

Community Donations Help CHUM Offer Vital Services to Homeless Pets

CHUM Works Directly with Dougherty Veterinary Clinics in Duluth to Provide Much Needed Services to Homeless Pets

DULUTH, Minn. – Dougherty Veterinary Clinics in is helping make a big impact in Duluth. Officials with CHUM have announced an ongoing partnership with the local clinic to help secure shots and other medical treatments for homeless animals in the region. This week’s Animal Answers introduces us to the woman behind the mission in progress along with a Duluth resident…

Artist Makes Unique Drawings for World Wildlife Day at Zoo

Brad Vanderbrook showed off drawings at Lake Superior Zoo

DULUTH, Minn.- Sunday was World Wildlife Day, and while Lake Superior Zoo doesn’t normally have elephants, giraffes, and gorillas, they got to have them all, through the unique drawings of one artist. “There’s so many animals that are in trouble, it’s like I’ve got a lot to choose from.” The pictures on display at the Zoo may look like black and white…

Fitger’s to Host Cutest Puppy Contest Saturday

The Annual John Beargrease Sled Dog Marathon Cutest Puppy of the Northland Contest is Happening Saturday, January 26 at 11:00 a.m.

DULUTH, Minn. – Calling all cute puppies of the Northland! You’re invited to bring your puppy, or stop by to witness the annual John Beargrease Sled Dog Marathon Cutest Puppy Contest on Saturday, January 26. The event is taking place at the Fitger’s Complex in Duluth. Registration is free and will start at 11:00 a.m. Saturday. This event is free…

Animal Answers: Give the Gift of Adventure this Holiday Season

Staff at the Lake Superior Zoo Invite You to Purchase a Zoo Membership for a Family Member this Holiday Season

DULUTH, Minn. – When it comes to picking out the perfect gift this holiday season, more and more people are picking experiences or adventures, creating memories to last a lifetime. Staff at the Lake Superior Zoo are inviting folks to think about purchasing a Zoo membership this holiday season. Details: A Zoo membership pays for itself in two times, and with…

Protect Your Paws from Holiday Regret

Animal Allies Wants to Remind Potential Pet Owners in the Northland to Think Twice Before Adding to Your Family this Holiday Season

DULUTH, Minn. – Tis the season for gift giving! From the latest electronics, to an adorable kitten or puppy, staff at Animal Allies Humane Society in Duluth want to remind all potential pet owners to think twice before adopting and adding to your family, especially over the holiday season. Michelle Sternberg with Animal Allies says potential adopters often stop by…

Meet “Tug” the Pier B Ambassador!

Tugboat or "Tug" Goes to Work with His Owner, Nikki Anderson, Five Days a Week at Pier B Resort in Duluth

DULUTH, Minn. – Can you believe it? Tugboat or “Tug” the Pier B Ambassador is already seven months old! Tug’s owner, Nikki Anderson, works as Director of Operations at Pier B Resort in Duluth. Anderson was asked by the folks at Pier B a few months ago if she would be interested in getting another puppy, having him trained and…

Duluth Apartment Complex Takes on Poo-Petrators

Management at Endi Apartments in Duluth Announce Animal Owners Who Don't Pick up Poop will now Pay a Fine

DULUTH, Minn. – Turds are now the talk of the town, at least at Endi Apartment complex on London Road in Duluth. A new policy in effect will enforce residents to think twice after their furry friend leaves something on the ground that’s not so nice. “It’s not an option, it’s a requirement in our building,” said Peggy Walsh, Property…

From Fearful to Fear Free, Dr. Marty Becker Visits North Shore Veterinary Hospital

North Shore Veterinary Hospital to Host Free Open House Friday, October 26 from 4 - 6 p.m.

DULUTH, Minn. – Dr. Michael Hargrove, Owner of North Shore Veterinary Hospital in Duluth invites the public to stop by their Open House event from 4:00 – 6:00 p.m. Friday, October 26. Visiting from Colorado, Dr. Marty Becker will also be attending the event, sharing his knowledge and past with creating Fear Free Certification. Fear Free provides online and in-person…

Animal Answers: Duluth Retriever Club Working to Create Hero Hunters

The Duluth Retriever Club Primarily Hosts Training Sessions from May Through September

DULUTH, Minn. – When it comes to hunting, every hunter hopes to achieve the best retriever in man’s best friend. However, it’s not always easy to teach the fundamentals of retrieving. “They don’t come out of the box ready to go,” said Mark Helmer, President of the Duluth Retriever Club. Practice and patience are just two of the skills trainers…

Kitten Caboodle at Animal Allies Humane Society

With the Recent Closure of one Local Shelter, Animal Allies Humane Society is Feeling the Impact

DULUTH, Minn. – Cats keep coming in to Animal Allies Humane Society at record numbers lately, according to shelter staff. As of Monday, more than 90 cats were in house at the Humane Society. Right now is known as “kitten season” in the Northland, but the recent closure of Friends of Animals Humane Society in Cloquet isn’t helping matters this year….

Northland Trio Looks to Help Animals with PJ’s Rescue

In This Week's Animal Answers, Meet a Trio of Ladies Looking to Spread Love and Compassion with PJ's Rescue

DULUTH, Minn. – A Northland trio recently formed together with the hope of giving dogs from Texas a second chance at life. Founder Tina Marcella says PJ’s Rescue was started out of a desire to rescue more dogs from the southern state. Marcella and two other founders all have dogs that were rescued from Texas, and want to encourage others to…

Duluth Para Pup Helping Create Colorful Canines and Cats

Connect With Duluth Para Pup On Facebook to Place Your Customizable Order

DULUTH, Minn. – A marketing degree with a minor in business management is now helping one Northland woman create a business she’s always dreamed of becoming a reality. “I’ve met a lot of different people that I never knew before,” said Alyssa Burr, Owner of Duluth Para Pup. Socializing and social media go hand-and-hand for Burr. “I get to see…

Duluth’s Wildest Party to Take Over Lake Superior Zoo

Zoo La Palooza is the Lake Superior Zoo's Largest Fundraising Event of the Year

DULUTH, Minn. – On Thursday, July 19, 2018, the Lake Superior Zoo will host the annual Zoo La Palooza. The operations fundraiser is the highlight of the board’s fundraising work on behalf of the Zoo. Money raised will help the facility continue to provide up-close and personal animal experiences to visitors, which Zoo staff say inspire connections to wildlife and…

Slithering Celebrities

Lake Superior Zoo Celebrates World Snake Day

Duluth, Minn.- The Lake Superior Zoo invited folks to slither out and celebrate with some serpents on Sunday for World Snake Day. It was a particularly exciting day for young Landon Dardis. “Because I got to have a snake selfie with a yellow snake,” he said. Guests got to meet 8-year-old Bullsnake Mr. Burns, and Monty: a 9-foot Burmese Python….

Dog Show Begins in Duluth

Duluth Dog Show Opens at DECC

DULUTH, Minn.-The Northland is going to the dogs as the 70th Annual Duluth Kennel Club All Breed Dog Show takes place July 12-July 15 . Dogs of all shapes sizes and colors come out to strut their stuff at the DECC. The event is open to more than just dogs and their owners. “Well a lot of people come here…

Animal Answers: Teaching with Touch at Great Lakes Aquarium

Great Lakes Aquarium Unveiled their New Touchpools on Memorial Day Weekend; the Attraction is Increasing in Popularity

DULUTH, Minn. – Some say seeing is believing, but at the Great Lakes Aquarium in Duluth, touching is teaching. On Memorial Day weekend, the Aquarium unveiled three touchpools for the public to visit, including horseshow crabs, sharks, jelly fish and more. The Great Lakes Aquarium is open Monday – Sunday from 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. Click here to learn more information….

Tips for Keeping Pets Calm this Fourth of July

Staff at Animal Allies Humane Society Want to Remind Pet Owners and Firework Users of the Dangers Surrounding Animals and Fireworks

Things you can do ahead of time for stressful, noisy situations: •Medication for Anxiety – prescribed by your veterinarian, this can be helpful for pets with situational or on-going anxiety issues •Securely fastened collar / harness with a Pet ID Tag •Update your ID Tag information – Has your phone number changed recently? •Microchip your pet – Even if the…

Animal Answers: Donations Needed for Large Animal Fund

The Humane Society of Douglas County is Looking to Spread Awareness of Their Large Animal Fund

SUPERIOR, Wisc. – It’s more common than many people think; large animals looking for a safe place to go after being surrendered to an animal shelter. Recently on May 11, the Humane Society of Douglas County received a surrendered mare. Staff say she came in tired, weak and tested positive for Lyme disease. Since then, she has received medical care and…

Nice Pitbull Looks to Help Open People’s Eyes

Duluthian Jesse Hakala Started Nice Pitbull Seven Years Ago to Raise Awareness and Stomp the Stigma of Pit Bull Aggression

DULUTH, Minn. – Through the power of social media and people coming together, one Northland man is looking to spread H.O.P.E, helping open people’s eyes. “I love all dogs, but pit bull’s are the ones that I chose,” said Jesse Hakala, a pit bull owner. For Hakala, a walk in the park or down a sidewalk comes with pride. “They…

Animal Answers: Scooby’s Story

Megan Wedel, Founder of Nemo Paws, Made the Trip to Texas with Volunteers in September, Bringing Back 20 Dogs to the Northland

ESKO, Minn. – Last August Hurricane Harvey proved to be one of the deadliest natural disasters in United States history. But through the devastation came light at the end of a dark tunnel for one Northland family. “It takes a village; there was a lot of us there to make this organization work,” said Megan Wedel, Founder of Nemo Paws….

Money Raised for Large Animal Net Gun After Duluth Snare Incident

Wildwoods Rehabilitation Center in Duluth has Received a Generous Donation to Purchase a Large Animal Net Gun

DULUTH, Minn. – Just days after a wolf had to be shot and killed in Duluth due to a snare being wrapped around its mouth, animal activists are questioning how this could have ended differently. “It’s not unusual and how many of them we don’t see that die in the woods,” said Farzad Farr, Director of Wildwoods. For many it’s…

Mind Over Matter with Team Freking

Blake Freking and His Team Train Year-Round to Mush in the John Beargrease Sled Dog Marathon, and Many Other Races

DULUTH, Minn. – As mushers make their final trek to the finish line Wednesday morning, the athletes leading the team will likely enjoy a bit of rest and relaxation in the coming days. However, it won’t last for long as many of the teams will soon embark on their next adventure. “Their first year of mushing is really just about…

Humane Society of Douglas County Hosts Raffle Fundraiser

The Drawing will End on April 8, 2018 at the Dreamland Supper Club

SUPERIOR, Wisc.  – The Humane Society of Douglas County is selling raffle tickets for a 2018 Textron Off-Road Wildcat ATV, sponsored by MAC Sport and Marine. The Shelter expects this to be one of their larger fundraisers of the year. Tickets are $20. Money raised will help to benefit over 1,000 animals, finding them a forever home. The drawing will…

Junior Naturalists Get A Lesson In Identifying Animals During Winter

Kids also made and took home a plaster animal track.

CARLTON, Minn. – The cold is not keeping some dedicated “junior naturalists” from learning about the outdoors this this weekend  from the warmth of a classroom. They showed up to Jay Cooke State Park to learn about identifying animals in the winter. These young snow trackers discovered what animals signs to look for like animal droppings, footprints or bones. The…

Experts Warn Pets are More Than Presents

Experts warn Northlanders a lot of work and money goes into taking care of a pet.

DULUTH, Minn.- Seeing a puppy under a Christmas tree might be exciting but local veterinarians want to remind Northlanders, a pet is for life not just for Christmas. Experts told FOX21 gifting a pet as a surprise is not a responsible idea. The owner should be apart of the process by picking out a breed that fits their lifestyle. “What breed…

Texas Puppies to Find New Homes in the Northland

More than a Dozen Puppies are Headed to the Douglas County Humane Society

SUPERIOR, Wis. – In the coming days, the Douglas County Humane Society will be receiving a litter of perfect presents just in time for the holidays. The shelter announcing earlier this week they will be receiving anywhere from seven to 17 dogs. The animals are being transferred to the Twin Ports from Texas. Right now, the shelter only has two…