Welcome to Tails from the Final Frontier
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A Word from our SFPet Director
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Welcome to the February 2024 edition of "Pet Tails from the Final Frontier"! I’d like to take a moment to recognize all the hard work that our staff have been doing in January, I'm also thrilled to share some exciting updates with you.
Firstly, you may have noticed a slight change in our official titles – we're now officially known as STARFLEET Petfleet or simply SFPet. Get used to these terms as they'll be our go-to references moving forward.
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Our dedicated Petfleet team has been hard at work crafting the first-ever Auxiliary Handbook for STARFLEET Petfleet. In our new handbook, you'll find a wealth of information, including details on registering your pets, applying for a pet's Final Mission certificate, and learning about our core values and fun events. Get to know the key individuals who ensure SFPet runs smoothly, and explore exciting opportunities like the new SFPet Regional Liaison position.
Discover more about SFPet ranks, awards for your pets, Auxiliary Mascots, and upcoming plans for a dedicated SFPet website and products for the STARFLEET Quartermaster. Also, check out our official logos and where you can proudly display them.
Did you catch the news about the STARFLEET Events Calendar on the Member's Hub website? It now features events from all corners of STARFLEET, including SFPet's planned events for 2024. Stay tuned for more details as we embark on the development of a dedicated SFPet website, set to fully launch by summer. If you have suggestions for the website, feel free to reach out to me at petfleet@sfi.org.
Our January photo contest was a hit, showcasing dozens of adorable pet photos. For 2024, we're focusing on fun and simple themes to encourage a wide variety of pets to participate. Get ready for a year filled with fun and excitement for you and your beloved pet companion.
Here's to a fantastic 2024 with SFPet!
Fleet Captain Randy Mitson
Director of STARFLEET Petfleet
petfleet@sfi.org
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Left to right: CMDR Ronel Du Preez, CDT1 Aurelie Doucet, LTJG Matthew Doucet, RADM James Cecil, FCAPT Randy Mitson, CAPT Mary Demiter, LT Jessica Sommer, FCAPT Jess Odell, and CAPT Frances Smith.
- Director, FCAPT Randy Mitson - USS Renaissance, R13
- Deputy Director, RADM James Cecil - USS CommonWealth, R1
- Veterinarian/Consultant, CAPT Frances Smith - USS Neptune, R2
- Operations, CAPT Mary Demiter - USS Antares, R5
- Member Services, LT Jessica Sommer - USS Cerberus, R10
- Member Service Assistant, FCAPT Jess Odell - USS Caroline, R20
- Editor-In-Chief, LTJG Matthew Doucet - USS Renaissance, R13
- Associate Editor/Writer, CMDR Ronel Du Preez - USS Dauntless, R8
- Associate Editor/Writer, CDT1 Aurelie Doucet - USS Renaissance, R13
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I’d like to extend a warm welcome to you in the exciting world of STARFLEET Petfleet! As the Director of SFPet, I am delighted to present our comprehensive handbook, a guide designed to answer many of the common questions our member have and to enhance your experience within our community.
What's Inside?
- Welcome to STARFLEET Petfleet (Section 01): Explore the foundation of our community and discover the range of options available to you and your pets. Learn how to register your pet and celebrate their journey. Learn about events, activities and the core values of STARFLEET Petfleet along with what you can and can’t do in SFPet.
- Command Structure (Section 02): Navigate the Chain of Command, meet our dedicated Command Staff, and understand the roles that contribute to the smooth functioning of STARFLEET Petfleet.
- Membership, Ranks, and Succession (Section 03): Discover your pet’s options for ranks, awards and recognition with in SFPet.
- STARFLEET Petfleet Mascots (Section 04): Meet our furry ambassadors and discover their role in fostering a sense of community.
- Our Future Website & Quartermaster Plans (Section 05): Although not yet developed we are developing the plan for a dedicated SFPet Website and branded products for the Quartermaster store.
- Brand Identity and Privacy (Sections 06 & 07): Explore the aesthetics of STARFLEET Petfleet, that include our official logos and their use.
Why Should You Read It?
By perusing this handbook, you gain insights into the core of SFPet, ensuring a fulfilling experience. Stay informed about our operations, engage with our vibrant groups, and contribute to the community's success.
Read the STARFLEET Petfleet Handbook here:
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1kX0eJ3_bz4qKUFMHTDiEZPOtyhR2Pvojkgkc0VYwMiU/edit?usp=sharing
Thank you for being a part of STARFLEET Petfleet – where every pet is valued.
On behalf of the SFPet auxiliary and the command staff, we would also like to sincerely thank FCAP Randy Mitson for singlehandedly making this official handbook happen! His hard work and dedication is reflected in every section of this document.
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Introducing SFPet Regional Liaisons
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Petfleet members, exciting news! We're thrilled to announce the creation of a new position within STARFLEET Petfleet - the Regional Liaison. This role, one per region, is designed to bridge the connection between Petfleet and each region in STARFLEET, fostering collaboration and enhancing communication.
Key Responsibilities:
The Regional Liaison will serve as a vital link between Petfleet and their respective region and chapters, having access to advanced information to share within the region and bringing valuable regional ideas to the attention of SFPet staff. They'll play a crucial role in connecting people across chapters, promoting SFPet activities and events, and encouraging new members to register their pets.
Collaborative Efforts:
Working closely with SFPet's Deputy Director RADM James Cecil and their local Regional Coordinator, the SFPet Regional Liaison aims to strengthen relationships between SFPet and the region, creating a smoother collaborative environment.
How to Apply:
If you're interested in becoming a STARFLEET Petfleet Regional Liaison, let your Regional Coordinator know of your interest and then apply through STARFLEET Volunteer Resources. We're aiming to have representatives from each region in place by the end of February. This is a fantastic opportunity to contribute to the pet-loving community and make a meaningful impact. Join us in building stronger connections and promoting the interests of both SFPet and your region!
Current SFPet Liaison Applicants:
ENS Janet Livingston - ISS Kidd, R3
CAPT Kelly Winterstein - USS Parallax, R11
GEN Larry French Sr. - USS Black Hawk, R12
CMDR Rik Moran - USS Merlin, R20
Apply online at: https://sfi.org/hr/starfleet-petfleet-liaison/
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SFPet Staff Feature
CDT1 Aurélie Doucet, Associate Editor/Writer
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Meet our youngest and newest staff member, Cadet 1st Class Aurélie Doucet, an exemplary editor and writer, contributing articles and helping edit and review the newsletter every quarter. Aurélie is also the only known cadet working as an auxiliary command staff member in the entirety of SFI.
A Stellar Journey with STARFLEET
Aurélie embarked on her interstellar journey as a proud member of the USS Renaissance NCC-74874, in Region 13. Her dedication to the organization extends beyond her role as an editor and writer for SFPet. She is also an active part of the USS Renaissance’s intelligence department and its quarterly newsletter.
A Symphony of Talents
Beyond her prestigious STARFLEET career, Aurélie's life is a tapestry of diverse interests and talents. She is not only a loving pet parent to two dogs, Bucky and Sydney, and a cat named Nala. She is also a devoted musician. In her pursuit of harmony, she's learning to play the piano, guitar, and drums, demonstrating her passion for creating music that resonates very loudly.
Athletic Prowess and Artistic Flourish
Aurélie is not just confined to the creative realms; she excels in the physical arena as well. A skilled floor hockey player and a formidable force in competitive field hockey at her high school, she embodies strength and agility. Her dynamic involvement extends to the arts, where she's an active member of both the talent fest and the school choir, showcasing her versatility and artistic flair.
Aspirations Beyond the Horizon
While Aurélie's current journey is inspiring, her aspirations reach even greater heights. She envisions a future as a music teacher, desiring to inspire future generations through the universal language of music, as she was inspired by her own music teacher.
A Cadet, Musician, and Pet Enthusiast Extraordinaire
In every facet of her life, Cadet Doucet exemplifies the spirit of exploration, passion, and dedication. Whether she's writing articles for her chapter and SFPet, scoring goals on the field, or learning in the music room, we look forward to watching her reach her goals!
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Our monthly STARFLEET Petfleet monthly Roll Call continues. At the beginning of each month, we invite all members to respond to our Roll Call with a picture of their furry, feathered, or scaly friends.
Total Registered Pets - 884 total pets
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344 Cat
335 Dog
37 Stuffed Animal
20 Bird
18 Tribble
16 Rabbit
8 Snake
8 Lizard
8 Cheetah
7 Guinea Pig
6 Turtle
6 Chapter/Ship's Mascot
5 Fish
4 Sock Monkey
4 Tarantula
4 Rat
4 Ferret
4 Bat Eared Fox
4 Robot
4 Rock
4 Fish (fresh water)
3 Horse
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2 Racoon
2 Bear
2 Iguana
2 Targ (Klingon)
2 Flying Monkey
2 Gerbil
2 Mini Horse
2 Dolphin
2 Several
2 Mouse
1 Squirrel
1 Bearded Dragon
1 Pot Bellied Pig
1 MeerKat
1 Caracal
1 Black Eared Jackal
1 Imaginary Pet
1 Spider
1 AI Companion
1 Deer
1 House Plant
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Leonard Nimoy, famed for his role as Mr. Spock in Star Trek, was not only a legendary actor but also a fervent champion for animals. Beyond the sci-fi universe, Nimoy dedicated himself to the cause of animal welfare, leaving a lasting impact through his activism against animal cruelty.
His passion for animals manifested prominently in his ownership of a pet shop in the 1960s. This venture allowed him to actively engage with animals on a personal level and fueled it his commitment to their well-being. The shop became a platform for him to educate the public on responsible pet ownership and the importance of treating animals with kindness.
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Nimoy was a vocal advocate against various forms of animal cruelty. He spoke out against practices like animal testing, trophy hunting, and the use of fur in fashion. He believed in using his influence to create awareness and effect change, actively supporting organizations like PETA and the Humane Society in their campaigns to protect animals from harm.
His legacy is not just confined to the Star Trek universe; it extends into the realm of compassion for animals. His commitment to fighting against animal cruelty, both through personal endeavors like his pet shop and through widespread advocacy, serves as an inspiring reminder of the impact one person can have in making the world a better place for our fellow creatures.
As we remember Nimoy's logical and empathetic portrayal of Mr. Spock, let us also celebrate his enduring legacy as a champion for animal rights, encouraging us all to live long and prosper in a world where kindness extends to every living being.
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STARFLEET Medical News
By LCDR David Yee, SF Medical Correspondent
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STARFLEET Medical's loveable SFPet Mascot, T'Ana, here in her Next Gen uniform!
She is fully registered with SFPet and ready for active duty.
She is named after Commander T'Ana, the sassy Caitian CMO of the
USS Cerritos NCC-75567 in Star Trek: Lower Decks.
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She even has her own webpage on the STARFLEET Medical website:
https://medical.sfi.org/resources/starfleet-medical-mascot/
We would like to encourage all the other auxiliaries to register their own official mascots with SFPet. We are hoping to host a friendly competition in the near future to determine a 2023 STARFLEET Mascot of the Year.
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Greetings, Petfleet photo enthusiasts! While we took a break from our Monthly Photo Contest in November, December was a festive blast with pets showcasing holiday spirit. Thanks to everyone who shared those adorable moments! In January, we kicked off the new year with the first photos of your pets in 2024, and the entries were pawsitively fantastic.
Looking ahead to 2024, we're excited to announce some simply fun themes for our upcoming Monthly Photo Contests. February will highlight your cutest pet photos, and March will embrace the goofiness in preparation for April Fools Day. We’re hopeful these playful themes will encourage more members and their pets to participate. So, keep those cameras clicking, share your delightful pet photos, and let's make our Monthly Photo Contests even more vibrant and engaging in the coming months!
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December 2023
Festive Spirit Photo Contest
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Winner:
- Harley Quinn and Amanda Dunklin in: ''Getting caught red-handed.... but with a paw!''
Honorable Mentions:
- Luna and Dee Spirock in: ''A purrfect pose with presents!''
- Conner, Kira and Constance Ruth Fleming in: ''Roasting buns by the open fire!''
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January 2024
First photo of the New Years
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Winner:
- Constance Futh Fleming, USS Continuum, R2 in: ''What's cookin', good lookin'?''
Honorable Mentions:
- Honorable Mention (2nd) Chris Poole
- Honorable Mention (3rd) Lea Elwood Relyea
- Honorable Mention (4th) Marissa Jeffrey
- Honorable Mention (5th) Tim Johns
- Honorable Mention (6th) Robin Marie Hudson
- Honorable Mention (7th) Kim Lockman
- Honorable Mention (8th) Debra Kavanaugh
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Upcoming SFPet Photo Contests:
- Feb: Cutest Pets - Sweetest “do-no-wrong” and “aww” moments.
- Mar: Goofiest Pets - Silly snapshots of your pets.
- Apr: National Pet Day (April 11th) - Your favorite pet photos.
Follow our STARFLEET Petfleet Facebook group for details about entering.
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Fleet Captain Randy Mitson, on behalf of the entire SFPet team, is honored to present the prestigious Service Award to Pandora and CRR Marissa Jeffrey on the USS Kitty Hawk in Region 1.
Pandora's outstanding service as an Anxiety Alert/PTSD Dog has had a profound impact on Marissa's life. Beyond the role of a companion, Pandora provides advanced warning of panic attacks, senses elevations in Marissa's heart rate, and offers crucial support by pulling her out of crowds. With remarkable intuition, Pandora alerts Marissa to oncoming panic attacks and provides deep-pressure therapy (DPT) to alleviate symptoms, granting Marissa the ability to live independently.
Marissa attests that Pandora is her hero, emphasizing the significant role Pandora plays in her life. Beyond simply chasing away night terrors, Pandora's constant touch during sleep ensures that Marissa wakes up grounded and oriented. In moments of desperation or difficulty navigating social situations, Pandora consistently provides grounding, enabling Marissa to move forward productively. This award is a heartfelt recognition of Pandora's exceptional service and the invaluable support she offers, allowing individuals like Marissa to lead more independent and fulfilling lives.
To nominate a pet, simply fill out this nomination form:
https://forms.gle/ChZPZ4zzKqJb625Z6
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SFPet Academy Course Awards
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Greetings, STARFLEET Petfleet members! We are thrilled to announce the launch of our quarterly STARFLEET Academy Challenge, running from February 1st, 2024, to May 1st, 2024. This challenge offers you the opportunity to enhance your knowledge of animals through engaging courses provided by the STARFLEET Academy (Educational Services).
Special Awards for Arachnid Enthusiasts:
For this quarter, explore the fascinating world of Arachnids with courses offered by the College of Invertebrates Biology (COIB). Complete all three courses (IAA-101 through IAA-103) with a Distinction in each before May 1st, 2024, and receive a special Gold certificate. Silver Certificates will be issued for those achieving Honours in each course with Distinction in at least one course. Others will receive a standard SFPet Academy certificate for completing the courses.
It’s Easy to Participate:
- Visit the Institute of Science (IOSC) website.
- Navigate to the College of Invertebrates Biology (COIB).
- Choose the Arachnids (IAA) section to find the following courses:
- IAA-101: Arachnids, Part 1
- IAA-102: Arachnids, Part 2
- IAA-103: Arachnids, Part 3
- Enter your results by May 1st 2024 to receive your certificate: https://forms.gle/7ki5FhuUBnjoxZuY9
About Arachnids:
Dive into the captivating world of Arachnids, a diverse group of arthropods with over 100,000 estimated species alive today. Explore subgroups like true spiders (Araneae), harvestmen (Opiliones), ticks and mites (Acarina), and scorpions (Scorpiones). Learn about their unique characteristics and contributions to our ecosystem.
Embark on this educational journey and showcase your commitment to the STARFLEET Petfleet community. We look forward to celebrating your achievements in the fascinating realm of Arachnids!
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Put on your walking shoes, Petfleet members! The STARFLEET Petfleet Walking Challenge is back, and we've made it even easier for you to step into fitness with your companions.
What's New:
We're simplifying the tracking process – bid farewell to weekly step counts! Now, all you need to do is report your monthly step totals. It's a breeze to participate and encourages an active lifestyle for both you and your pets.
How to Participate to Get Your Certificate:
- Lace up those sneakers.
- Take a stroll with your pet, enjoying the benefits of an active life together.
- Keep track of all your steps (we’re counting your steps not your pets) throughout the month.
- At the end of the month, report your total steps using this form: https://forms.gle/oYT1tBu2zjoKTGrXA
Why Participate:
The STARFLEET Petfleet Walking Challenge is all about fostering a healthy, engaged lifestyle for you and your pets. Embrace the joy of walking, share the experience with your furry friends, and contribute to a sense of community and adventure within Petfleet.
Easy Reporting:
Ready to share your steps? Visit this link and enter your monthly step count. It's that simple!
Join us in this fun and fitness-filled journey. Don't miss out on the chance to stay active, strengthen the bond with your pets, and be part of the STARFLEET Petfleet Walking Challenge. Get moving today!
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SFPet Veterinarian Article
By CAPT Frances Smith, DVM
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Allergies and Atopic Dermatitis in Dogs
Why is My Dog Itchy?
Itchy skin is one of the most common problems seen by veterinarians. It is frustrating for owners and distressing for dogs. Itching can damage skin and can result in skin infections. One common reason for this itching is allergies and atopic dermatitis. Atopic dogs are genetically predisposed to allergic dermatitis. It is a progressive and chronically relapsing disease that causes inflammation and itchy skin. The skin barrier in affected dogs is defective and can allow allergens such as pollen, dust, and other things in the environment into the skin. The immune system reacts to these allergens and causes inflammation and itching, which results in scratching. This can lead to self trauma, skin infections, and hair loss. Over time the skin can become thickened and darker.
There are many breeds that are predisposed to atopy including Golden Retrievers, Labrador Retrievers, French Bulldogs, Shih Tzus, Lhasa Apsos, German Shepherds, West Highland White Terriers, Cairn Terriers, Scottish Terriers, and others. Many mixed breed dogs may also be affected. There are other reasons for dogs to itch, such as parasites, flea allergies, and food allergies. Some atopic dogs may be affected by these things as well, compounding the itching. Atopic dogs usually begin to have symptoms between 1 and 3 years old. In food allergic dogs, symptoms may begin under a year old or later in life. Many affected dogs live mostly indoors. There is some thought that this indoor lifestyle limits the exposure to diverse microbes early in life and may help promote allergic inflammation in humans and dogs.
Allergens are everywhere and can travel in the air for miles so it is not easy to escape exposure whether indoors or outdoors. Itching can be worse in certain seasons, but in areas where the climate is more temperate year round, the symptoms may not be as seasonal. The patterns of itching can vary but generally include foot licking, and scratching of axillary and inguinal areas, ear pinnae and sometimes ear infections, as well as under the tail and around the anus and vulva. If the lower back is itchy, this is usually due to an allergy to flea bites. Skin infections are common. These may be bacterial as well as yeast infections. The most common organisms involved are normally present on the skin, but the changes and inflammation associated with allergies allow them to overgrow. Yeast infections in particular may eventually cause thickened, pigmented skin that can have strong odors.
There is no specific test for atopic dermatitis. It is a clinical diagnosis based on history and clinical symptoms. Affected animals can be tested for allergies by blood or skin testing. Skin testing is often considered the standard; as the skin response may be directly observed. There are regional profiles based on the most common allergens in a given area. It is not possible to test for every possible allergen. Allergy immunotherapy is based on the results of allergy testing and helps to desensitize the immune system to the chosen allergens. It tries to teach the immune system not to overreact so that itching may be reduced.
Allergy immunotherapy is the only true treatment for allergies. Other treatments seek to reduce itching and help control infections. Allergy shots or sublingual drops require 6-12 months to begin working. Dogs that are allergic to many, many things may not respond as well because it is difficult to desensitize to so many allergens. Dogs that do respond may still need medications to help control itching but are generally more easily controlled than without immunotherapy. Controlling the itching is one of the main goals in the treatment of atopic allergic dermatitis. Most dogs respond well to corticosteroids such as prednisone, dexamethasone, triamcinolone, and others. While these medications work well, there are negative side effects especially with long-term use. They include increased eating, drinking and urinating as well as suppression of the immune system. Corticosteroids are very useful in helping to manage flares and acute inflammation of ear infections but may not be the best choice for long term management. Oclactinib, or Apoquel, was introduced in 2013. It is a very targeted therapy that helps reduce itching associated with allergies and atopy. It is a pill that is given to dogs 12 months or older twice daily for 14 days or until the dog is less itchy. Then it is given once daily as needed to continue to help control itching.
Cytopoint, or Lokivetmab, is a caninized monoclonal antibody that targets and neutralizes IL-31, the major inflammatory substance that is produced in an allergic dog’s skin. This injection is given by veterinary professionals every 4-8 weeks to help keep itching controlled. This may be given to dogs of any age. Cyclosporine has also been used to help control itching. It is now used more frequently in cats than dogs for itching associated with allergies. It is important to note that if skin infections are present, they must be treated along with controlling the itch. Skin infections WILL happen in allergic atopic dogs. There are other things that need to be done to help manage itchy dogs. Weekly baths help clean the skin to manage skin infections. Be sure to use dog shampoos recommended by your dog’s veterinary care team. Bathing in tepid to slightly cool water can help soothe itchy skin temporarily. Omega 3 fatty acid supplements may help disrupt the production of some inflammatory substances produced in the skin and can help support the barrier function of the skin. These are available in liquid or gel caps. Topical products such as Dermoscent Essential 6 (Dermoscent, LDCA, Bayer Animal Health), Allerderm Spot-On (Virbac SA), Atopivet Spot-On (Bioiberica SAU), and others can also help support the skin barrier.
No one treatment protocol is appropriate for all dogs all the time. It is important to understand that if what you routinely do to help keep your dog comfortable suddenly stops working, it does not mean that the current medications have stopped working. Even with a good control plan, symptoms flares and skin infections will still occur. Lapses in flea control or increased flea exposure, and for dogs with food allergies, eating something they are allergic to can greatly increase itching. Work with your veterinary care team to manage these flares and get your dog back to comfort as soon as possible.
If your dog is itchy, there are many options available to help. Talk to your vet to develop the best plan for your companion.
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Ronel's Pet Discoveries
By CMDR Ronel Du Preez, Associate Editor/Writer
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Having a pet first aid kit on hand is crucial for ensuring the well-being of our companions. Just like humans, pets can encounter accidents, injuries. A basic well-equipped pet first aid kit serves as a valuable resource in times of emergencies, allowing pet owners to provide prompt and effective care until professional veterinary help is available. Being prepared with a pet first aid kit not only empowers pet owners to address minor injuries but can also make a significant difference in critical situations, potentially saving a pet's life by allowing for timely intervention and stabilization.
- Register all necessary and emergency phone numbers in your phone (Vet, Animal Control, Animal Rescue Centers, etc.)
- Digital Thermometer: Test to make sure that it is still in working order and make sure the batteries are still good.
- Gauze: Is the gauze still clean, sterile and properly wrapped and closed. If not; throw away and get new sterile gauze.
- Tweezers: Make sure these are clean and rust free. It can be used to remove small objects that have penetrated your pet's skin.
- Medical and vaccination booklet: This must be kept in a plastic, watertight bag to keep it intact. This must be taken with to the vet especially if your pet has any allergies.
- Scissors: Medical scissors can be used for cutting bandages.
- Nitrile gloves (in case of latex allergies.) These gloves must be brand new and never previously used.
- Emergency foil blanket: It can be used in case of hypothermia or shock.
- Absorbent gauze pads: Are they still sealed, clean and sterile? These are used to absorb fluid and or to stop bleeding from a wound or even an open abscess.
- Bandages: Check with your veterinarian about what bandages would be appropriate.
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Legal Disclaimer:
Talk to your veterinarian about what is necessary and appropriate for your specific pet.
The information in this Pet First Aid article is for general information purposes only and does not replace professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Pet health and safety can vary based on individual factors. Always consult a qualified veterinarian or animal healthcare professional for advice tailored to your pet's individual needs. By using this article, you acknowledge that you understand and agree to use the information responsibly alongside professional veterinary guidance.
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Aurélie's Pawsitive Frontiers
Guide Dogs: An Inspiring Job
By CDT1 Aurélie Doucet, Associate Editor/Writer
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Have you ever wondered about those cool dogs that help people with visual disabilities? They're called guide dogs, and they're like superheroes with fur! Let's take a quick peek into their awesome world and find out how they make a huge difference in people's lives.
These dogs are specially trained to assist people who are blind or visually impaired. They're not just pets, they're like furry sidekicks that help their owners safely navigate the world.
Guide dogs start their training as puppies, learning basic commands and getting used to different environments. As they grow, they receive specialized training to become experts in guiding their owners safely.
These dogs have some incredible skills, like navigating obstacles, making smart decisions, and problem-solving. Plus, they're not just guides – they're also great companions, providing emotional support and forming a strong bond with their owners.
Guide dogs and their owners are like an unstoppable team, facing life's challenges together. The bond they share goes beyond words, creating a friendship filled with courage and trust.
Remember, guide dogs are on duty, so it's essential to give them space and avoid distracting them. If you want to help, ask the owner first – they know their dog best. And don't forget to spread the word about these amazing dogs!
In a nutshell, guide dogs are not just cute – they're true heroes, making a real impact in the lives of visually impaired individuals. So, next time you see a guide dog and its owner, give them a thumbs up for the incredible team they make. Guide dogs show us that even our furry friends can be heroes, teaching us about friendship, support, and independence in the most pawsome way!
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Quarterly SFPet Crossword Puzzle
By LT Jessica Sommer, Chief of Member Services
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To access the printable version, click this link.
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Losing a beloved pet is an emotional journey that transcends the bounds of mere companionship. It is an indescribable loss that leaves a profound void, echoing the absence of a cherished presence. The sentimental bond formed with a pet is unique, a silent language of unconditional love and loyalty that words often struggle to capture.
Registering your companion's Final Mission to the rainbow bridge will immortalize their memory through time and space.
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SFPet Newsletter Submissions
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Calling all SFPet members! Share your companion's stories and adventures in the "Pet Tails from the Final Frontier" newsletter. We welcome original submissions like articles, creative writing, opinions, suggestions, photos, and artwork. Keep written submissions to 2,000 words or less, but if you have more to share, contact our SFPet News Editor. Join the fun and submit your original content today
Newsletter Submission Form
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How to Join STARFLEET Petfleet?
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 We extend an invitation to all STARFLEET pet lovers to become part of our vibrant SFPet community. The process of joining is simple - simply make your way to SFPet's Facebook Group or visit our Discord channel located on the STARFLEET Discord server. Upon arrival, we encourage you to register your beloved pets using the SFPet Registration Form. We look forward to welcoming you and your furry friends to our warm and inviting community.
Has your beloved companion passed on? You can immortalize their memory through the Final Mission to the Rainbow Bridge registration.
SFPet online registration form
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Volume 1, Issue 12.
June 26th, 2010
Click here to view
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