Page 2 2025 Animal Stories Lincoln Daily News February 2025
Page 3 2025 Animal Stories Lincoln Daily News February 2025 Table Contents f 04 34 10 44 14 50 20 64 24 76 28 80 Best Expression Animals in Action Cutest or Most Cuddly Kitty Korner Barnyard Buddies Rainbow Bridge Tribute Pets in the workplace are an asset for the business and a blessing to its patrons How should I introduce another animal into my home? The challenges and rewards of owning unique or exotic pets Finding Nemo……or not? Comfort dogs in the classroom ease student anxieties Local couple Israel and Ruthie (Ruhl) Siltman find their “Faodail” in their love of horses
Page 4 2025 Animal Stories Lincoln Daily News February 2025 If you are a pet owner or a pet lover the thought of getting to work alongside your four-legged friends might sound like the perfect situation. Studies have shown that productivity and camaraderie is higher in office settings that allow pets. Stress is reduced, communication is boosted, morale is higher, and the all-around mood is lighter. Just like daycare, pet sitter costs can be astronomical. Companies that allow pets to join their owners at work are saving their employees a lot of money. Since 1999, the Friday after Father’s Day has been designated “National Take Your Dog to Work Day.” It is a day that has grown in popularity since its inception. Today, nearly 63 million US households own at least one dog. An estimated $150.6 billion was brought in by the pet industry in 2024, proving that pets are considered an important part of the family unit. Started as a way to promote dog adoptions by Pet Sitters International, the Friday after Father’s Day every year celebrates the unique bond owners and pets have. Many companies have jumped on board and allow pets at work every day. Some of those companies include: Amazon, Tito’s Handmade Vodka, Petsmart, Ben & Jerry’s, Build A Bear Workshop, Purina, and more. Being self-employed may make it easier to bring your fur baby to work every day, but there are some things to take into consideration. Are your pets friendly with all people? Do they shed? Are clients scared or allergic? It is important to weigh all factors Pets in the workplace are an asset for the business and a blessing to its patrons before making the decision to include your pet in your workday. Several local business owners have chosen to take their pets to work and they agreed to give Lincoln Daily News insight into what made them decide it was the right fit for them. Robin Barton, owner of Syles by Robin in Lincoln, has taken her adorable little dog Elvis to work with her for seven years. She decided to take him because work kept her away from him for too many hours. Being able to have her best buddy by her side and knowing that
Page 5 2025 Animal Stories Lincoln Daily News February 2025 he isn’t home alone makes Robin’s workday better. Elvis loves seeing people and customers love seeing him. Most customers greet Elvis first and a lot of them bring him treats. He has his own bed and toys at the shop and is happy to be the “boss” in the office chair. Robin says they usually go on a walk at lunchtime, and they take potty breaks throughout the day. Nicole Royall, owner and stylist at Evolve Salon in Lincoln, has been taking her beloved Pomeranians to work with her since 2016. Jazz, the white Pomeranian is 16 years old, and Prince is 12 years old. Photos provided by Robin Barton The decision to take them to work was made when Jazz had a seizure, and Nicole didn’t feel comfortable leaving him home alone. Jazz really brightened the mood at the salon. Photos provided by Nicole Royall Continued --
Page 6 2025 Animal Stories Lincoln Daily News February 2025 The dogs are like fluffy little antidepressants, Nicole said. Nicole noted that not every day is the right vibe for the dogs, some days are too busy. Making sure the area is safe for your pet and making time to take potty breaks are important. Clients love the dogs and often hold them during their appointments. Working with your besties is just the best! Angie Wulf, dog groomer and owner of The Wulf Haus in Lincoln, has taken several of her pets to work with her over the course of many years. Angie says that it really helped potty train her animals and that they are all well socialized and tolerant of both people and other animals because of it. When Angie transitioned from working in a grooming shop with other people to opening her own shop she wasn’t fully prepared for working completely alone. Continued --
Page 7 2025 Animal Stories Lincoln Daily News February 2025 Elsa, her giant Wulf Hound was there for her every single day. Angie was also dealing with some scary health issues at the time and having Elsa by her side was a blessing. They have a special heart to heart bond. Elsa is really big so customers could be easily intimidated and uneasy about leaving their tiny dogs around her, but she is so gentle, calm, and loving. Elsa had free roam of the shop, for the most part, and would greet you at the door with her sweet demeanor. She is now 10 years old and retired, so she doesn’t come to the shop daily anymore. She now spends her days lying around home. Photos provided by Angie Wulf Jack and Louie, both small dogs, also came to work with Angie quite a bit. Jack (rest in peace) did not get to potty train with her at the shop as a puppy because she was working in retail and at an office job at the time. Louie was able to potty train with her at the shop and the difference was amazing. Jack was never fully potty-trained, but he was a good boy and did his best. Louie was always great at not having accidents. Sailor, the shop cat actually found Angie. While grieving the loss of her sister-in-law and coworker one day Sailor walked in and just stayed. A kitty in a dog grooming shop? She has brought so much love and light and she is absolutely adored. She got along with the Continued --
Page 8 2025 Animal Stories Lincoln Daily News February 2025 dogs, most of the time. Sailor is now living her best life in a loving home, helping her owner heal her heart after losing her beloved dog. Matthew Xamis of Xamis Ford Lincoln Mercury took his dog Gus to work for nine years until he passed recently. When he was first considering getting a dog he knew that he would be gone from home too much but decided to work with a trainer to socialize Gus at a young age. Having Gus around the Xamis dealership brought a sense of calmness and happiness to Matt, other staff members, and customers. Matt said that many times customers would rush over to greet Gus and you could just feel a sense of relief when they saw him lying in the office. He made it feel more like home. Matt said that training and socialization are important when taking your pet to work. Having a safe place for your pet to lay down and relax out of public spaces is also important. Osha does not have any specific laws related to having your pets at work. Some additional state and local laws may apply so make sure you check before deciding to take your fur babies to work with you. Overall, the information I gathered seems to point in favor of pets at work. Ultimately, it is your decision. I think it sounds pretty paw-fect! [Lesleigh Bennett] Photo provided by Matthew Xamis Resources: Should You Bring Your Dog to Work? Pros and Cons of Dogs in the Workplace https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/lifestyle/ bring-your-dog-to-work/ National Take Your Dog to Work Day – June 20, 2025 https://nationaltoday.com/national-take-dogwork-day/ Occupational Safety and Health Administration https://www.osha.gov/laws-regs/ standardinterpretations/2004-03-12-0
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Page 10 2025 Animal Stories Lincoln Daily News February 2025 According to the Pew Research Center, 62 percent of Americans own a pet, and about 35 percent of households own more than one. It seems then that people like to have an animal companion and are likely to have more than one. Something people might not consider until looking into getting another pet is how to introduce them into their household if they already own a pet. You have likely heard the common phrase, ‘you never get a second chance to make a first impression.’ This is likely true about animals with other animals too. How should I introduce another animal into my home? The Animal Humane Society’s website has a lot of great information regarding introducing a new pet in this way. One of the most important things you should do is make sure you take your new pet to the vet before bringing them home. They also recommend keeping the pets away from each other for the first couple of days, confining the new animal to a room of their own. Allowing them to eat on opposite sides of the door at the same time can also help them get used to the smell of the other animal. It is important to remember that every animal is different, and they each have different personalities. If you and your pets tend to be a Continued -- Photo by Barnabas Davoti
Page 11 2025 Animal Stories Lincoln Daily News February 2025 bit calmer, think about getting an animal with a personality that will fit in. If you have more of a busy household, getting a pet with a big personality might work better for you. The website for Countryside Veterinary Hospital has a list of seven tips to help you introduce a new pet into your home, several of them shared with the ones previously mentioned by the Animal Humane Society. One additional suggestion they make is allowing your pets to meet each other in “neutral” territory. While they acknowledge that this can be tricky for cats, the suggestion they make for dogs is “a local park or open field.” They go on to suggest using positive reinforcement for all your pets. If you train your pets next to each other, they will learn to behave near one another, increasing the chance that they will get along. Patience is also a very important part of this process. Having a routine is another suggestion the Countryside Veterinary Hospital makes. “Cats stressed because of household changes can develop urinary issues, while dogs may exhibit destructive behavior,” their website states. They recommend “walking, feeding, and interacting with your pets at the same time every day” to help maintain a schedule. This can help your pets feel safe and comfortable in their environment, even if there is a big change, such as a new pet. One thing all the three sources referenced so far have in common is that their advice is geared mainly toward either cats or dogs. What if you have a different kind of animal and are looking to get another? According to Pet MD, after cats and dogs, the next three most popular pets in 2023 were freshwater fish, small animals (such as rabbits), and birds. According to The Spruce Pets, acclimating a new fish to your aquarium can be a lengthy process. Doing this will require you to put some of the water from your main tank into a smaller separate tank. This is where your new fish will live for two weeks. During that time, you are going to be looking for signs of illness that could be passed from your new fish to your old fish. You also need to consider things such as water quality and the Ph levels of your water. What about small animals such as rabbits? According to the United Kingdom’s Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RSPCA), the first thing you must do is neuter/spay both rabbits, especially if they Continued --
Page 12 2025 Animal Stories Lincoln Daily News February 2025 are a male and female rabbit. Then, similarly to cats and dogs, you want to give each rabbit their own enclosure. Unlike cats and dogs, however, these enclosures can be in the same room, allowing the animals to be able to see one another. Again, like cats and dogs, rabbits should be provided with a neutral space with supervision to meet each other face-to-face. The goal with rabbits is to get the pair to bond. The RSPCA says, “once the rabbits are spending one to two hours daily without any problems, they can be introduced into their living space,” but make sure to monitor them. You can stop monitoring them once they are showing positive behaviors toward one another in their cage. Birds are a bit different, as, according to the Veterinary Centers of America, “pet birds that are not raised with other birds typically bond to their owners and are unlikely to want to live with another, new bird.” If you do decide to get another bird, however, like fish, the bird should be kept in separate rooms to “quarantine” for a month to a month and a half. The rest of the steps are very similar to that of rabbits. Keep them in separate cages, but in the same room, move the cages closer together, and eventually put them in the same cage, but monitor them. Most types of pets, it seems, have a similar process when introducing an additional pet to your home. Not all animals have the same process, though, and so it is important that you understand exactly what you should do to increase the likelihood that your new pet will get along with your old one. Make sure to do some research of your own if you are considering a second, third, or any number of new animals in your home. [Matt Boutcher] Continued -- Photo By Cyril Cartuyvels
Page 13 2025 Animal Stories Lincoln Daily News February 2025 Resources: https://www.pewresearch.org/shortreads/2023/07/07/about-half-us-of-pet-ownerssay-their-pets-are-as-much-a-part-of-theirfamily-as-a-human-member https://www.animalhumanesociety.org/ resource/thinking-about-adding-another-petyour-family https://mycountrysidevet.com/7-tips-tosmoothly-introduce-a-new-pet-to-yourhousehold/ https://www.petmd.com/general-health/mostpopular-pets https://www.thesprucepets.com/acclimatingaquarium-fish-1381257 https://www.rspca.org.uk/adviceandwelfare/ pets/rabbits/company/bonding https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/ introducing-a-new-pet-bird Photo By David Taffet
Page 14 2025 Animal Stories Lincoln Daily News February 2025 The challenges and rewards of owning unique or exotic pets When it comes to pets, dogs and cats are the most popular, however, non-traditional or exotic pets have become a growing trend. There are a number of pet owners who have hedgehogs, gerbils, guinea pigs, hamsters, rabbits, frogs, toads, iguanas, bearded dragons, birds and even snakes. Continued --
Page 15 2025 Animal Stories Lincoln Daily News February 2025 Dr. George Eales, a veterinarian at Green Prairie Animal Hospital in Lincoln who does most of their exotic pet care, says rabbits tend to be the most popular non-traditional pet. While non-traditional animals can make great pets, it is important to understand the differences and needs of non-traditional, exotic pets. In “The Growing Trend of Exotic Pet Ownership,” Brittany Cotton says, “differences between a non-exotic pet and an exotic pet come down to their level of domestication.” For example, cats and dogs have long been domesticated and raised by humans, who have “bred non-exotic, or domestic animals to display certain traits and abilities since man started cohabitating with them.” We often know what to expect from domesticated animals. The traits and abilities of an exotic pet are a bit different. Cotton describes an exotic animal as being part “of a species that resisted domestication, didn’t possess abilities that made them useful, or originated from a different country.” To Cotton, though an exotic animal can be described in various ways, “the core concept is one of it being an animal that adapts to domestic life while retaining its wild or feral nature to a degree.” The needs of exotic pets are another important consideration. The “Comprehensive Guide to Caring for Exotic Pets” says, “Understanding your exotic pet’s unique needs is crucial to ensuring they enjoy a long and healthy life. The best way to learn about their care is Continued --
Page 16 2025 Animal Stories Lincoln Daily News February 2025 through partnering with a veterinarian who has exotic pet board-certification or simply has a special interest in your pet’s species.” Something especially important to consider before getting an exotic pet is the environment they need to be in. Though various exotic pets have different environmental requirements, there are some general guidelines. For example, when it comes to pets like bearded dragons and iguanas, Dr. Eales said it is important to consider the husbandry [animal raising] requirements for these pets as they require special lighting, humidity and temperature regulation. Location and safety are additional important environmental considerations for exotic pets. With smaller exotic pets, you need to keep the pet’s cage or enclosure away from large pets. For example, rabbit cages should be kept away from cats or dogs, who are their predators. In addition, make sure any hazards such as plants are not within the pet’s reach. Additionally, make sure the enclosure allows the pet to access resources like food and water. Climate control can be important for certain species as the guide to caring for these pets says. With reptiles and amphibians, the comprehensive guide says is helpful to “consult with an expert, such as your veterinarian or a breeder, to ensure your pet’s enclosure meets their climate requirements for ambient temperature, humidity, and sunlight or ultraviolet (UV) light.” A thermometer inside their enclosure can help ensure the temperature meets their needs. Dr. Eales said reptiles and amphibians need the most controlled environments. Hygiene is important. Whatever environment the pet lives in should be kept clean to help protect them from sickness. Always make sure to wash your hands after caring for them. When it comes to diet, exotic pets have different requirements depending on whether they are omnivorous, herbivorous or carnivorous. As with humans, excessive amounts of food can cause weight gain or other dietary issues. Dietary needs often depend on an exotic pets’ species. For example, birds usually eat pellets, vegetables and fresh fruit in addition to seeds and nuts. Rabbits and guinea pigs need to eat hay, fresh vegetables and pellets. In the article Continued --
Page 17 2025 Animal Stories Lincoln Daily News February 2025 “Food and Diet,” Paige K Parsons says, “hay should comprise 85% of an adult rabbit’s diet” because it is “essential to a rabbit’s good health, providing roughage, which reduces the danger of hairballs and other blockages and helps grind down their constantly growing teeth to prevent overgrowth.” Reptile’s dietary needs depend on their species. For example, “Reptile Diet Plans: Tips for Balanced Nutrition and Health,” Mutasim Sweileh says, “carnivores, like some lizards and snakes, thrive on protein-packed foods like crickets or mice.” Additionally, Sweileh says, “herbivores, such as tortoises, need leafy greens and fibrous veggies [and] omnivores enjoy both; think insects and fruits for a balanced mix.” An amphibian diet consists mostly of worms and live insects like crickets. However, to prevent disease, you need to supplement their diet to provide them with vitamins and minerals. A guide on what frogs eat says you can supplement their diets in “one of two ways.” One way to supplement the diet is “by gutloading live insects with nutrients before offering them as nourishment – ensuring these predators get all the protein and minerals they need without extra fillers.” The other way is dusting which requires “coating feeder insects with nutritional supplements before feeding them to your frog.” To dust insects, “place insects in a container with a small amount of supplement powder and give it a quick shake to coat.” Like any pets, exotic pets need socialization. It is important to understand the natural behavior of these animals when figuring out their socialization needs. Some enjoy interacting with humans, while others prefer little contact with humans. Some pets do better and feel safer in pairs or groups. Providing enrichment activities is another way to help with socializing a pet. The article “Exotic Pet Care: A Comprehensive Guide for Unique Pets” offers ideas for activities to stimulate different species. With birds, try to “offer a variety of toys, perches, and foraging activities.” For reptiles, “create hiding spots, climbing structures, and interactive feeding methods.” For small mammals like gerbils and guinea pigs, “use tunnels, wheels, and puzzle feeders.” As the Comprehensive Guide to caring for exotic pets says, “Caring for an exotic pet is a unique, fun, and rewarding experience— but inadequate preparation and planning can result in heartbreaking consequences.” Before getting an exotic pet, do your research and follow guidelines for care so your pet has a healthy and happy life with you. Photos provided by Green Prairie Animal Hospital [Angela Reiners] Continued --
Page 18 2025 Animal Stories Lincoln Daily News February 2025 Resources: Animal Pickings. “Amphibian Diets: What do they Eat?” Animal Pickings, 2025. https:// animalpickings.com/amphibian-diets/ “Comprehensive Guide to Caring For Exotic Pets.” Happy Healthy Pets. https:// www.happyhealthypets.com/pet-resources/ comprehensive-guide-to-caring-for-exotic-pets Cotton, Brittany. “The Growing Trend of Exotic Pet Ownership. Polite on Society, 23 August 2024. https://politeonsociety. com/2024/08/23/the-growing-trend-of-exoticpet-ownership/ Parsons, Paige K. “Food and Diet.” Rabbit.org Foundation, https://rabbit.org/care/food-diet/ Pet Genius. “Exotic Pet Care: A Comprehensive Guide for Unique Pets.” Pet Genius, 11 July 2024. https://blog.petgenius. ai/2024/07/exotic-pet-care-comprehensiveguide-for.html Sweileh, Mutasim. “Reptile Diet Plans: Tips for Balanced Nutrition and Health.” Snake Snuggles, 14 Jan. 2025. https://snakesnuggles. com/reptile-diet-plans/#google_vignette
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Page 20 2025 Animal Stories Lincoln Daily News February 2025 Finding Nemo…or not? You love the mesmerizing, calming, smooth movements of watching a fish tank. You see lots of tanks in doctor offices' reception areas, certain restaurants, and zoos that have all sizes of beautiful underwater creatures. So you think you want a fish tank? You’ll need to ask yourself do you want a saltwater tank, with lots of little Nemo’s, corals, seahorses, starfish, and/ or anemones, or a freshwater tank where you can have many different beautiful live plants with fun snails, and shrimp? What does this all entail, how long, and most importantly, how expensive? Whether you are planning a saltwater tank or a freshwater tank, there are several things that you need to prepare for and plan ahead of time. Here are some questions to ask yourself to help determine if a fish tank is a good choice and which type is best for your lifestyle. Hopefully by now, if you are serious about purchasing a fish tank, you have done loads of research on the many different types of aquariums and the types of fish you are interested in keeping. Before purchasing a tank this decision will have to be made because although many things are similar between the two types of tanks, many are not. Your trusted aquarist will be of help to narrow down the size of the tank you need based on your area at home, the kind of fish you want, and how you want the tank presentation to be. Continued -- Photo by Qui Nguyen
Page 21 2025 Animal Stories Lincoln Daily News February 2025 Be prepared to answer some of the following questions if wanting an aquarist to help determine the size and type of tank you will need: Location, Location, Location - • Once you set it up and fill your tank with water it will be exceedingly difficult to move it, so be diligent in how much room you have, your placement, and how much room surrounding it. For example, a 30-gallon fish tank full of water weighs approximately 348 lbs. and that is without the lighted lid, filters, heaters, décor, and fish. This is one of the most important steps. The location you choose should be decided upon very carefully. You will want to pick a place that gives you plenty of room with enough space to work and clean the tank. Hopefully, the main purpose of having this tank is to enjoy the whimsical fish and view the tank. Therefore, pick a place that fits the tank well while not letting it get in the way or in a location where it could get bumped into or tripped over. • Some new hobbyists will try to cut corners with equipment, but each piece is really necessary for a tank, especially a hood with LED lights. The hood will protect your fish from getting things accidentally dropped into the tank, hands and animals going fishing, will keep fish from jumping out of the tank (yes, this can really happen) and the light in the hood will allow a calming effect in the evenings for viewing. • Also, keep in mind that the tank placement needs to be away from direct sunlight, direct cold drafts, heat/cold air ducts, and near a GFI outlet or waterproof surge protector. If you have a great expense in the tank with expensive fish, it would be wise to consider a backup plan for electricity as tanks cannot survive very long without the air pump for oxygen and a thermometer to keep the temperature at an acceptable level. • You’ll also want to place this tank in an area where you can drain and fill the tank as needed without carrying water long distances. Cleaning out, exchanging water, cleaning, or changing filters or rock is a messy business and you want to be close to a sink, if possible, to cut down on the spillage. You will also need to place your tank at least half a foot from the wall to accommodate the filter you choose. • If you decide not to purchase a fish tank/ stand combo, then you will need to place the tank on a sturdy heavy table with four solid legs. Most tank/cabinet combos are built to be a smooth transition, by standing higher than a Continued --
Page 22 2025 Animal Stories Lincoln Daily News February 2025 normal table and making for the best viewing options. Keep this in mind, because the height of the tank will deter other animals and kids from getting curious. Where do I go, what kind do I get? • Some larger pet stores will have good deals on many different-sized fish tanks with the cabinets and all the tools you need to get you set up, so the guessing (other than what kind of fish you want) has been decided for you such as what size filter for the size of tank, heater, light hood, media, rack, rock/sand. Watch out for those deals because they are usually at a much lower price than buying each part separately. • Search for the closest pet store that has a large selection of aquatics available. If you live in a small population, chances are you will have to travel to a larger city to find one of these pet stores. Choosing a store where you feel welcome and comfortable should be a major consideration since you will have lots of questions and will rely on the staff to guide you, evaluate your water, and help with tank issues during the set-up and continuous monitoring throughout the life of your tank. • Determining how big a tank that you need depends on what kind of fish and how many you want. If you are more interested in a salt-water tank, you typically need at least a 30-gallon tank to start, because there are too many water fluctuations in a smaller tank which leads to making it more difficult for the tank to grow a stable ecosystem. Whereas with a freshwater tank, you can go much smaller. An aquarist can help you with the size and number of fish so that your new fish do not get stressed out and die prematurely. This is your fish’s home, it needs to be spacious, clean, happy, and safe. • Think of any changes or additions you may want to make in the future so that you can plan ahead and make sure you have the space needed for this accommodation. Saltwater Tank vs. Freshwater tank Setting up any type of fish tank takes planning, but building a salt-water tank takes much more time and patience. It takes several weeks to get the tank set up and acclimated. Filling a fish tank is usually the same process for both types of tanks and each type has different chemicals (marine salt for salt-water tanks) to add to your tap water to get it to the proper stability for the fish, and for removing waste. You will also need to invest in a hydrometer to measure the water’s salinity and specific gravity and Continued --
Page 23 2025 Animal Stories Lincoln Daily News February 2025 for a saltwater tank a saltwater test kit that should be used weekly in assessing the water levels. However, remember to research your specific fish because there could be additional requirements for the chemicals or temperature of the water. Freshwater tanks are relatively less expensive because you can have a successful smaller tank such as a 10-gallon tank with a hood, filter, and gravel for around $50-$100, with most fish costing between $5-$40 each. Smaller freshwater tanks are not very timeconsuming since most freshwater fish are hardier and are a little less stringent about having precise measurements in regards to chemicals. If new to the aquarium world, it might be good to start out with a smaller freshwater tank and gradually add to it as your interest and hobby grows. Saltwater tanks of course do not require a different tank, it just should be at least 30 gallons for the best results. What makes the saltwater tank more expensive and timeconsuming are the preparations for the exact water stability, temperature, and fish. The cost for most saltwater fish runs greater than $50 per fish and requires more chemicals and/or special lighting. Adding corals or live rocks inhabited by natural algae and bacteria can add another layer to monitoring the stability of the tank and can add to the overall cost. The time spent maintaining a saltwater tank has also greatly increased. The temperature of the water and the levels in the water need to be monitored on a daily basis in the beginning and at least weekly thereafter. Fish have a temperature range to survive in and the water levels, especially the ammonia and the pH. need to be tested. With a little practice, this can be done in the comfort of your own home, but it is suggested to take a sample of your tank water into your trusted aquarist for weekly testing (at least the first few months) where they can advise you what chemicals to add or purchase to get your levels into proper range. Typically, this testing is free of charge but check with your aquarist first. Once your tank is put together, and levels are acceptable for your fish, according to your aquarist, please, please follow your aquarist’s suggestion in introducing your fish to your tank. Most individuals get so excited at this point that they just dump the fish in hoping that this is the last step to a fruitful fish tank. However, this is where most fish do not survive. Fish come from another fish tank, where more than likely they will use different chemicals, lighting, and water that differs from yours, so as not to shock your new fish system with a different water content or temperature, you must let the fish gradually get introduced to your tank or they will perish. This takes patience and time and if you follow your aquarist's suggested methods, then you will soon have a beautiful, bright fish tank that you can show off to friends and kids alike. [JA Hodgdon-Ruppel] Photo by Nolan Krattinger
Page 24 2025 Animal Stories Lincoln Daily News February 2025 Comfort dogs in the classroom ease student anxieties Dr. Amber Jordan with Glacier - Photo by Matt Boutcher When you think about things you would find in a classroom, you probably imagine things like desks, whiteboards or chalkboards, pencils, etc. You probably do not imagine a dog in the classroom. Yet, there are studies to suggest that having therapy dogs in the classroom is not only important for the students’ mental and emotional health but can lead to increased learning for the students. According to research by the U.S. Department of Education, therapy dog visits in the classroom have shown to have “a) increased reading and language skills, b) social, emotional, and humane gains, and c) improved gross motor skills.” The increase in reading skills can be especially true when the students read to the dogs. Local educator Dr. Amber Jordan, teacher at Lincoln Junior High School (LJHS), has taken full advantage of this research in her classroom, getting the district to green light bringing her own therapy dogs in once per week. LDN was able to sit down with Dr. Jordan for an interview on why she does this and the impact she has seen in her class. Jordan has two Siberian Huskies named Glacier and Frost, and she brings one of them in each week, usually on Mondays. Jordan got this idea from one of her past students after they mentioned the idea of having a class pet, specifically a dog. After this discussion, Jordan went and got Glacier and Frost their therapy dog certifications. “I knew it was something Continued --
Page 25 2025 Animal Stories Lincoln Daily News February 2025 that [my students] wanted,” Jordan said, “and if I could do, then I would.” When asked about any social-emotional growth in her students, and if Glacier and Frost have been able to help students grow in those ways, Jordan’s immediate response was “oh yeah, for sure.” She shared that she has some students who do not want to be at school, but as soon as they see either of the therapy dogs, their faces light up. Jordan also stated that she occasionally has students who will shut down. “If that student shuts down on a day that [Glacier or Frost] are here… they come out of it way quicker.” She also states that she sets a classroom goal for one of her dogs to come in each week, and she sees a lot of collaboration among her students to try to reach that goal each week. Jordan was then asked about any academic improvements since Glacier and Frost started coming in. While she said that she has not collected data on any specific academic skills, work completion overall has shown a significant improvement. Jordan also said that she tends to have more engagement and participation from her students when Glacier or Frost are around, specifically in reading. The next topic Jordan was asked about was her opinion on the best part of bringing her therapy dogs into the classroom. She shared that she loves to see the kindness her students try to show her dogs, and also the impact they have on her students. “If they’re having something going on at home, or if they have something that is bothering them here at school, it relieves that stress,” Jordan said. Jordan also shared that her goal is always to help her students. Having her dogs around to help her help her students is something that is really important to her. Both Glacier and Frost are certified through the Alliance of Therapy Dogs, and Jordan has to have them recertified every year. Glacier and Frost also have to volunteer once every three months to continue their certification as well. Jordan shared that Glacier and Frost have volunteered at Heartland Community College and Eastern Illinois University in the past. Jordan then took a moment to talk about some things that are important to her regarding therapy dogs. When out in the community, Jordan has noticed that some people are afraid of Glacier and Frost, or they are not sure how to interact with them. One of the added benefits of bringing her dogs into the classroom is teaching them about how they should approach animals. She enjoys teaching her students “how you should approach an animal, and you should not be super excited Continued --
Page 26 2025 Animal Stories Lincoln Daily News February 2025 about things, or how you don’t just go up to [an animal] and start petting them… especially when it comes to service animals.” Jordan says that arming her students with this knowledge is going to help them out in the real world. Jordan also shared that she has learned a lot about dog body behavior, and how to tell when Glacier or Frost are stressed. She has had days where her dogs are communicating that they do not want to come with her to school that day, and she listens to them and lets them stay home. Jordan also took a moment to talk to her students about what they like about Glacier and Frost coming into their classroom. Here are a few of the things that they had to say: • “Having Glacier and Frost at school helps to relieve my stress.” • “They should be able to work in this classroom for a long time so maybe they can help more kids with being able to control their anger.” • “When Glacier and Frost are here, it is easier for me to focus on my work.” • “I love doing tricks with the dogs, they put a smile on my face, and it’s fun to watch them learn new tricks.” • “Glacier and Frost have helped out class so much that I think all schools should have a therapy dog.” [Matt Boutcher] Resources: 1. https://files.eric.ed.gov/fulltext/EJ1173578. pdf
Page 27 2025 Animal Stories Lincoln Daily News February 2025 Photos provided by Dr. Jordan
Page 28 2025 Animal Stories Lincoln Daily News February 2025 Knowing each other from being homeschooled and both being a part of the local Lincoln Home School Group, Israel Siltman and Ruthie Ruhl married and started an amazing, unpredictable, rewarding journey together training horses. The love of horses started when Ruthie’s parents took her trail riding when she was incredibly young around two to three years old and wouldn’t stop talking about horses. Finally, around age five, and because she wouldn’t stop professing her love for horses, her parents got her involved in riding lessons, Local couple Israel and Ruthie (Ruhl) Siltman find their “Faodail” in their love of horses From the left – Isreal Siltman, Nelson, Joe (aka Jelly) and Ruthie (Ruhl) Siltman – The first picture taken of the two horses that started the couple’s journey sometimes traveling for an hour or more to get her to and from. By age eight, Ruthie found a place that fit her like a saddle fits a horse, where she learned more than she ever could imagine, and found not only a genuine mentor but a life-long friend, Lori Nelson. Throughout Ruthie’s teenage years, she worked for Lori cleaning stalls, making connections, and teaching others everything she soaked up throughout the years. She still bounces thoughts and ideas off of Lori today. Continued --
Page 29 2025 Animal Stories Lincoln Daily News February 2025 Ruthie’s senior year of high school proved to be a turning point in her life that she did not expect at all. Her plans for attending any type of college were just not in the picture for her, so she thought! Towards the end of her senior year of high school, she received the Iva Mae Blaum Scholarship in Agriculture in Logan County, which meant that she needed to go to college! Her mom talked her into visiting all the local colleges and universities, hoping for her to stay close to her Mt. Pulaski native home. Even though her parents had thought she should stay close, she found her heart’s desire when she took a road trip with her grandmother more than 1,025 miles to visit the College of Central Florida. Ruthie had always had a desire to live in the Ocala region, and it just so happened that was where the college was located. After a rough start to her new college career, breaking her foot meant that she couldn’t work with or ride horses. To make ends meet those first few months while healing, she worked for Door Dash, an up and coming home delivery service. Ruthie questioned her purpose and thought maybe she should just put riding on the back burner and concentrate on finishing college. However, while surfing the web, she ran across an ad from someone who wanted a ‘barn sitter’ for a weekend and Ruthie applied. This led to her meeting another person, Mike Huber, who was looking for a permanent barn helper. Huber was a 1980 Olympian who was very instrumental in determining how the Equestrian competitions are run today. Ruthie spent the next two years working for Mike and his wife taking care of all aspects of the barn and its animals. Over the next several years, Ruthie worked extremely hard holding down two jobs while going to school at the same time. She said it was the toughest, hardest physical period in her life getting up at 4 a.m. and cleaning stalls for those getting ready for the Winter Circuit. The Winter Circuit is twelve weeks of international competing in major equestrian events where premier competition and diverse opportunities for riders and their horses of all levels come together for an unforgettable experience at the World Equestrian Center. On a trip home to Mt. Pulaski at the end of the summer in 2023, Ruthie’s best friend, Audrey from Canton offered to sell her “Joe,” a pony that Ruthie had been eyeing for quite some time. Ruthie wanted a project horse, but Joe Continued --
Page 30 2025 Animal Stories Lincoln Daily News February 2025 was a little more of a project pony than she wanted. Ruthie went back home a couple of months later to help her childhood trainer, Lori, with an annual charity horse show in Springfield. She rode Joe again and this time decided to buy him with extra scholarship money awarded by the college. This meant that she was still going to school, working, and caring for Joe, not to mention planning for her wedding all at the same time! Six days after Israel and Ruthie marry, she finalized the purchase of a horse from West Virginia. Going up a steep mountain, in three feet of snow pulling a trailer with the brakes smoking because of the pull, they get their second horse ‘Nelson’. Nelson was the game changer for Ruthie and Israel. You see, Nelson was only five years old and had already had back surgery. Ruthie said, “I knew I was gambling, and I was gambling hard”. Unfortunately, after 13 months Nelson Nelson, the first horse Ruthie started by herself from scratch. She said “He was able to teach me more about all aspects of riding and horsemanship than any other horse I’ve had so far. I only had him 13 months. He wasn’t my ‘heart’ horse, but I will never forget him and everything he taught me.” had to be put down, but not before he taught Ruthie that she was capable of so much more. She credits him giving her confidence in her training abilities and teaching her about equine medicine. Ruthie now has seven horses and has a passion for finding “diamond in the rough” horses and giving them a second chance. She teaches them to ride, makes them family friendly and finds them their next riders. In asking Ruthie her suggestions on how to guide others who are interested in learning more about anything equestrian, she says to get involved with 4H and other horsemanship programs like the USHJA horsemanship quiz challenge. Both programs have manual after manual full of knowledge that she references today. She believes for any youngster remotely interested in horses these are the best ways to learn all aspects of the life cycle and various ways of collaborating with horses. The second thing she suggests is that nothing can replace a good mentor. Ruthie was very candid in her struggles through working and college but will be graduating in May and now has a business, “Faodail Equestrian LLC” that has exploded since September of last year beyond their imagination. Ruthie and Israel currently have two part-time employees who are helping with the day-to-day operation. They are hoping to expand with a few more horses and have a waiting list for people who want to bring their horses to their facility. However, they plan to slow down a little bit so that they can step back and take a look at where the trajectory is heading, what that looks like, and how they want to tweak it. Ruthie would also like to eventually compete at the Grand Prix level, Continued --
Page 31 2025 Animal Stories Lincoln Daily News February 2025 while still finding forever homes for her furry friends. Curious as to what Faodail means? Ruthie ran across this word in high school. In Gaelic it means ‘Lucky Find’. She feels like that is the perfect verbiage of the path she has traveled since high school. The pieces have fallen into place better than she could ever have planned or imagined. For those wondering how to start their own equine business, Ruthie said, “have a network of people that you trust, that you can learn from, and that can learn from you, because you are never going to know everything!!.” She added “you have to have something to offer.” What she means is that she is always willing to help others. If someone needs transport for horses, help with hurricane evacuation efforts, or if something breaks down, she is always there. The give-and-take relationship is real. She learns from her mentors, leaders, and teachers and she in turn helps where she can and teaches others under her all that she has learned. Ruthie wants others to know that she started this business debt-free on a “hope and prayer” and that, along with the hard, hard work that she put in all those years to get to this point, she feels, is what has made the business so successful thus far! She even goes as far as calling herself crazy for moving over a thousand miles away to go to school and start a business with little to no capital. Wonder what happened to Joe? He is now living with a four-year-old who had trouble saying “Joe.” So “Joe” is now “Jelly” living happily ever after with his new owners. [JA Hodgdon-Ruppel] Day one to day 60 with Ruthies favorite rescue/rehab, Roxii Baxter is Ruthie’s latest project. He is an imported five year old from Germany. She hopes to bring him back to the sport after giving him a much needed vacation. Photo taken by S&H Photography in Citrus Springs FL
Page 32 2025 Animal Stories Lincoln Daily News February 2025 “Roxii telling me exactly how high she should be jumping.” Ruthie bought Cayden, Mr. Steady Eddie from a picture on social media. Photos provided by Ruthie (Ruhl) Siltman
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Page 34 2025 Animal Stories Lincoln Daily News February 2025 BEST EXPRESSION Sugar, the sweet little rescue wins Best Expression in the 2025 Animal Stories Contest Sugar is a 15 year old rescue dog adopted by Marianne Hay in August of 2024. Hay said that when she got Sugar, the little dog had a tumor that had to be removed, and she has been through a lot, acclimating to a new home and recovering from surgery. Hay entered Sugar in the Best Expression category of the 2025 Animal Stories Pet Contest with a picture taken of Sugar happily getting some belly rubs not long after her successful surgery. Sugar was congratulated by Anite Pyle and Rick Wilson and given a $50 gift card for her winning picture. Lincoln Daily News’ Karen Castelein was also on hand for the winning photo and presented Hay with a LDN swag bag filled with notepads, ink pens, butter mints, and a Lincoln Daily News coffee mug.
Page 35 2025 Animal Stories Lincoln Daily News February 2025 BEST EXPRESSION Pet name: Daisy Mae White Owner Name: Brandy White Look at that beautiful face. Just smiling at the Park. Pet name: Sir Winston Frederick Owner Name: Cassie Young Somebody loves his sunshine & car rides. American Bully XL Pet name: Dodger Owner Name: Laurin and Sheri Hill I’m ready for you to throw the ball!
Page 36 2025 Animal Stories Lincoln Daily News February 2025 BEST EXPRESSION Pet name: Spencer Owner Name: Linda Purlee He was my dad's dog. Dad also had a disability, but it never held either one of them back. Pet name: Delta Owner Name: Amber Hickey-Allen Delta coming in from the yard after her bath. So proud of all the mud she found! Pet name: Houdi Owner Name: Kay Anderson Always happy, always smiling, loves everybody! Pet name: Sugar Owner Name: Marianne Hay Sunshine, warm grass, and belly rubs!
Page 37 2025 Animal Stories Lincoln Daily News February 2025 BEST EXPRESSION Pet name: Tank Owner Name: Melissa & Seth Thomas Are we done yet we these wedding photos Pet name: Daisy Owner Name: Ally Perschall Smile! Pet name: Ivy Owner Name: Ally Perschall “Please toss that ball!”
Page 38 2025 Animal Stories Lincoln Daily News February 2025 BEST EXPRESSION Pet name: Snickers Owner Name: Rick and Brenda McCabe Snickers is a 1 year old Chiweenie (Chihuahua/Dachshund) who we adopted from the Humane Society. We think he is very handsome! Pet name: Boone Owner Name: Alecia Sutton Boone is always the first in action but loves to curl up on a pile of blankets & take the longest naps! Pet name: Goose Owner Name: Rebecca & DJ Passed out from the good pets.
Page 39 2025 Animal Stories Lincoln Daily News February 2025 BEST EXPRESSION Pet name: Bernie Owner Name: Hilary and John Gilmore I am the King Bernie. Ruler of tinsel town. Pet name: Alice cooper Owner Name: Angelina McGinnis Alice always has an opinion. Just ask her. She will let you know she has cattitude !! Pet name: Simba Owner Name: Carrie White Simba is enjoying the sun while watching the birds and squirrels. Pet name: Max Owner Name: Matthew Evans Max's favorite time is watering the plants! He gets his best pets when it's lap time under the grow lights. It's like fun in the sun!
Page 40 2025 Animal Stories Lincoln Daily News February 2025 Pet name: Max Owner Name: Tim & Samantha Boolman Quit moving! Pet name: Sweetness Owner Name: Miranda Wilkerson Sweetness is ready for Valentine's Day! BEST EXPRESSION Pet name: Boone Owner Name: Larissa Pearson Boone is the silliest boy.
Page 41 2025 Animal Stories Lincoln Daily News February 2025 BEST EXPRESSION Pet name: Luna Owner Name: John Freese Luna is a goofy girl that loves to play!
Page 42 2025 Animal Stories Lincoln Daily News February 2025 Pet name: Beta Owner Name: Lou Aue Born with only one eye and a deformed jaw. He has no idea he’s different, wouldn’t probably care if he did. BEST EXPRESSION Pet name: Cali Owner Name: Megan She loves to smile Pet name: Slush Owner Name: Amber Jordan Party it’s my birthday! Meet Slush the middle child. Ready for any party! I love to swim, talk, boss my siblings, and pose for photos! Pet name: Chuckie Owner Name: Diane Bicknell My School Picture
Page 43 2025 Animal Stories Lincoln Daily News February 2025 BEST EXPRESSION Pet name: Frost Owner Name: Amber Jordan Frost mistook algae for land, took an unplanned dip, and wasn’t happy. If looks could kill, we’d all be doomed. Pet name: Finn Owner Name: Dawn Potter Gimme Pet name: Jewels Owner Name: Andrea Stufflebean Do I need braces, mom? Pet name: Roscoe Owner Name: Vic Martinek Deep in thought
Page 44 2025 Animal Stories Lincoln Daily News February 2025 Animals In Action Bird hunting pays off for Benny the cat The rather large kitty owned by Michelle and Joe Ryan was the winner of the Animals in Action category of the 2025 Animal Stories Pet Contest. Benny is only two years old and is really quite large for his age. Michelle said that she found Benny when he was very tiny, and she started out helping him survive by feeding him with an eyedropper. Benny won the category for the photo of him in a tree seriously contemplating the fate of a nearby bird. Ryan tagged the photo “Bird hunting.” At Farm and Home Supply, Benny and Michelle were accompanied by Joe and his best buddy Archie. The Ryan’s say the two get along fine. Benny won a $50 gift card from Farm and Home supply that was presented by Rick Wilson. Karen Castelein was on hand from Lincoln Daily News, and presented the Ryans with a LDN swag bag containing ink opens, not pads, butter mints, and an LDN mug.
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