pets Archives - SB Magazine

SB PETS: Taking Care of Your Adorable Pet Rabbit

SB Magazine — Tue, 13 Feb 2024 22:45:02 +0000

Rabbits make wonderful house pets and offer endless joy to their owners. However, many new rabbit owners are not aware of the requirements for properly caring for their pets. This lack of knowledge often leads to preventable health issues in pet rabbits. It’s important to understand that, like any other pet, rabbits have specific needs that must be met to ensure they live a long, happy, and healthy life. If you’re a proud owner of a cute and furry pet rabbit or are considering adopting one, read on for helpful tips to get you started and ensure that your long-eared friend is always in top condition.

Tips for

Bunny-Proofing

Your Home

Domestic rabbits are happiest when kept indoors where they are protected and warm. House rabbits can move freely in a bunny-proofed room or rooms, or they can be kept in a puppy pen, bunny condo, or a large rabbit cage. It’s important to ensure that they have enough space to hop around and should be given time to exercise daily. Moreover, keeping your rabbit’s home in an area where it can interact with your family is recommended. The family or living room is an ideal location for their habitat.

Rabbits are natural chewers and love to explore their surroundings. Giving them ample space to run around is crucial, but it’s important to take precautionary measures to ensure their safety. Keep your rabbit away from electric cords, household chemicals, and houseplants that could be harmful. Bunny-proofing your home is the best way to protect your belongings and create a safe space for your bunny. You can cover electrical cords with flexible plastic tubing or lift them out of reach. Use plastic guards to safeguard your furniture and baseboards from being chewed on. Keep in mind that your rabbit will try to chew on just about anything within their reach.

Taking Care of Your

Rabbit’s Diet and Bathroom Needs

When it comes to a rabbit’s diet, it’s important to keep a few things in mind. A rabbit’s diet should mainly consist of hay and vegetables, with a few fruit treats every now and then. Make sure you do your research to determine which vegetables and fruits are safe for your rabbit. It is never a good idea to give a rabbit human processed food. Additionally, rabbit pellets are an option but should be supplemented with hay and fresh vegetables. Your bunny must always have access to fresh hay and water.

Rabbits generally have a natural inclination to pee and poop in one area. Be sure to set up a medium-sized cat litter box near their food and water bowls. Use a rabbit-safe, recycled newspaper pellet litter on the bottom of the litter box. Do not use cat litter or wood shavings; these are not safe for rabbits. To encourage good litter box habits, place a layer of hay on top of the litter. Rabbits like to eat hay and poop at the same time.

Tips for

Proper Rabbit Grooming and Care

Rabbits are naturally hygienic animals and clean themselves frequently, but they still require regular grooming. It’s essential to brush your bunny every day to remove excess fur, as it can cause severe digestive problems if ingested. Unlike cats, rabbits cannot cough up hairballs. Additionally, trimming your rabbit’s nails regularly is crucial to prevent them from curling and growing into their paws or getting caught on something.

Regular veterinary checkups are essential for keeping your bunny healthy. During these checkups, your vet will examine your rabbit’s ears, eyes, teeth, and gut to ensure that everything is in order. This will help keep your pet in the best possible condition and identify any early signs of illness. Additionally, consider having your rabbit spayed or neutered. This procedure can reduce aggressive behavior and improve litter box habits.

Rabbits are naturally social creatures that enjoy spending time with their human companions. Their lively and energetic nature is both infectious and entertaining. As caretakers, it’s our responsibility to ensure that our furry friends are content. By understanding how rabbits perceive the world around them, we can maintain their happiness and overall well-being.

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LSUS Basketball Teams Spread Holiday Cheer at Children’s Hospital

SB Magazine — Thu, 16 Nov 2023 15:21:01 +0000

LSUS basketball players donned red Santa Claus hats and spread holiday cheer with presents up and down the halls of St. Mary Pediatric Hospital on Tuesday. The fluffy white tops of some hats nearly scraped the ceiling – James Ellis is 6-foot-11 and Kenyal Perry is 6-foot-6 – but all of the LSUS men and women likely appeared like giants to the children at St. Mary.

Men’s and women’s basketball players and coaches distributed presents and sang “Jingle Bells” as they visited nearly 20 rooms in the pediatric wing.

Players competed with each other to see which gifts they’d give – Playdoh, Legos and Hot Wheels were all first-round draft picks.

“It’s heartwarming to give back to children who can’t be home for the holidays,” said LSUS forward Destanee Roblow, who visited a two-week-old infant among other children. “Giving back in this way makes me feel more connected to my teammates and helps us be more successful.”

Seven-year-old Derriyah smiled and sang along from her bed with the women’s basketball team.

“I’m sure it helps lift her spirits,” Derriyah’s mother chimed in. Derriyah said she was ready to visit the play area after the team’s visit.

Men’s basketball coach Kyle Blankenship relishes the role of Santa, making sure he knew the name and age of each child he visited, found an age-appropriate present in his “sleigh” (a storage cart) and selected which players would conduct the visit.

The sleigh made trips down wings named “Sugar Street,” “Rocky Road” and “Lollipop Lane.”

It’s an event in which he’s participated since his days as an LSUS player back in the mid-2000s.

“This is always something the players and I look forward to,” Blankenship said. “We’ve visited a children’s hospital every year since I’ve been here, even during (the first year of) COVID-19.

“We FaceTimed kids from the lobby that year.”

Blankenship was asked how the team was playing by one father – the Pilots are 7-0 and ranked No. 7 nationally headed into Thursday’s road trip to Our Lady of the Lake (Texas). Blankenship wanted to send the family tickets to a game once his daughter’s health improved.

Senior guard Jalen King, who is in his first season as a Pilot, said he enjoyed an event where the men’s and women’s teams can spend time together off the court.

“It feels good to give back in times like this,” King said. “I know I’d love this if I were in a hospital room, and it’s great to be able give something because there are kids out there who might not get a Christmas present.

“It’s also a great opportunity to build chemistry with our team and with the women’s team. I love this opportunity to help build that.”

A pair of LSUS women’s basketball players join men’s basketball coach Kyle Blankenship as they visited a 13-year-old patient at St. Mary Pediatric Hospital on Tuesday.

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Happy Howl-O-Ween!

SB Magazine — Fri, 13 Oct 2023 20:35:54 +0000

By HAILEY LAWSON

Get ready for a howling good time because Halloween is the perfect holiday to dress up our furry friends in silly, funny, and scary costumes. Whether you own a dog or a cat, dressing them up in costumes is always a delightful treat. From bats to pumpkins to sharks, there are endless possibilities for turning your pets into the life of the party. Not only does it add to the fun and craziness of Halloween, but it also gets your four-legged family members involved in the festivities. With a broad range of costumes available in various styles and sizes, you can transform your Persian kitty into a precious princess and your Labrador into a magnificent lion.

Here are some important things to keep in mind when selecting costumes for your pets:

Ensure that the costume fits properly and is comfortable for your pet to wear.
Check to make sure the costume doesn’t obstruct your pet’s vision or cover their ears.
Make sure your pet’s tail is free to move while wearing the costume.
Avoid costumes that are too loose or too tight, as they can restrict your pet’s movement.
Smooth out your pet’s skin and fur under the costume to avoid any discomfort or pinching.
Avoid any costume pieces that can be easily chewed off and swallowed.
If your pet doesn’t take to wearing a costume, consider a Halloween-themed collar or bandana instead.

Did you forget to order a Halloween costume for your pet? Don’t worry, here are some easy DIY pet costume ideas that you can whip up in no time:

DIY CAT COSTUME: Give your friendly feline a flower face with this simple DIY project. All you need is felt material, scissors, elastic, and glue. Measure your cat’s head circumference and cut a piece of elastic to fit comfortably around their head. Cut colorful felt petals about 2 inches long and 1 inch wide and glue them onto the elastic in a flower pattern. With treats in hand, try the flower on your cat and watch them bloom.

DIY DOG COSTUME: Transform your dog into a batty pup with these DIY bat wings. You’ll need black felt, a wire coat hanger, a piece of wide material for a strap, and glue. Cut two pieces of black felt in the shape of bat wings and a piece of the coat hanger to fit between them. Place the wire between the two wing pieces and glue them together to make one side. Repeat for the other side. Glue the wings together on the wide material strap and fasten around your pet’s chest. Your Batdog is now ready for a trip in the Batmobile.

It’s always fun to dress up your pet for Halloween, but it’s important to make sure they’re comfortable and safe in their costume. Your furry companion will be the cutest pumpkin in the patch with their new attire! Happy Halloween to you and your spooky pal!

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ENVIRONMENTAL ENRICHMENT

SB Magazine — Tue, 19 Sep 2023 15:03:23 +0000

By HAILEY LAWSON

As pet owners, we all want our furry friends to live happy and healthy lives. One important aspect of their well-being is environmental enrichment. Environmental enrichment refers to the process of providing animals with stimulating environments that promote their mental and physical health. It’s especially important for cats and dogs, as they spend most of their lives indoors. Many pet parents believe that food, water, and shelter is enough for their pets. However, just like humans, our four-legged friends need mental stimulation to thrive.

Here are some key points to consider when it comes to the importance of environmental enrichment for pets.

Mental Stimulation

Just like humans, pets need mental stimulation to stay sharp. Providing them with interactive toys, puzzles, and games can help keep their minds active and engaged. For cats, consider getting a scratching post or a cat tree to climb on. For dogs, try playing fetch or hiding treats around the house for them to find.

Physical Exercise

Regular exercise is essential for maintaining good health in pets. Dogs need daily walks and playtime to keep them physically fit, while cats benefit from toys that encourage them to run and jump. You can also consider taking your dog to a dog park or teaching your cat how to walk on a leash outside.

Stress Relief

Pets can experience stress and anxiety just like humans. Environmental enrichment can help reduce stress levels by providing them with a sense of security and comfort. For example, cats may feel more secure if they have multiple hiding spots around the house, while dogs may benefit from having a designated space where they can retreat when they feel overwhelmed.

Behavioral Issues

Environmental enrichment can also help prevent and alleviate behavioral issues in pets. Dogs that are prone to destructive chewing may benefit from having plenty of chew toys available, while cats that are prone to scratching furniture may be more likely to use a scratching post if it’s placed in a prominent location.

Overall Well-Being

Ultimately, the physical, psychological, and emotional well-being of our pets depends on environmental enrichment. As pet owners, it’s our responsibility to ensure that our cats and dogs have everything they need to thrive – and environmental enrichment is a key part of that. With a little imagination and effort, you can promote a healthy and joyful life for your pet.

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Including your Furry Friend on Your Wedding Day

SB Magazine — Tue, 08 Aug 2023 15:40:29 +0000

By Hailey Lawson

We’ve all heard the traditional wedding day phrase, “Something old, something new, something borrowed, and something blue,” but what about something furry? Your wedding is an exhilarating day for family and friends to celebrate, and we all know that weddings can be very stressful, especially if you want to include your pet. For those pet owners who want to include their four-legged companion on their special day, here are some tips to make it a stress-free experience for all.

Add a Personal Touch: Including your pets in engagement photos and engagement announcements can make the big day that much more personal and special. However, the difficult part will be keeping your pet from stealing the limelight. Many pets are used to posing for the camera, but make sure that the indoor or outdoor setting for the photo shoot is safe for you and your pet.

Determine Your Pet’s Role: Before the big day, decide what role your pet will play. Is your pet going to play a large role in the wedding, such as best canine or best feline? Or maybe they’re going to be the ring bearer or walk the bride down the aisle. Dress them to impress and make sure their attire is comfortable and fits correctly. Have their collar or leash match the colors of your wedding. Maybe a simple color-coordinated satin bow tie or dazzling tux for your furry friend will add the right touch.

Check with the Venue: Always check with the wedding venue beforehand to ensure that pets are allowed on the property. Also, don’t forget to have some treats and water available, and take your pet to the venue before the ceremony to familiarize them with the surroundings. While you are there, take a minute to determine a quick exit in case they get upset, too excited during the wedding, or require an emergency potty break.

Be Prepared for the Unexpected: Tell your photographer that you want to include your pet in some of the wedding photos. This allows the photographer to plan photo ideas involving your pet and also allows them to prepare for unpredictable pet behavior. Even with well-behaved pets, there’s always a chance that they’ll misbehave or become stressed during the day. The day’s commotion can be increasingly stressful for your pet, so make sure they can handle the excitement.

Inform Guests: If you plan to have your pet at the wedding, it’s essential to inform your guests in advance. Include this information on your save-the-date cards and invitations to allow people with allergies to plan accordingly.

Plan Ahead: To ensure that both you and your pet can enjoy the event, consider hiring a pet sitter to take care of them during the ceremony and reception, and take them home so that way you don’t worry about their comfort and safety or if they’ve accidentally ruined your cake. It’s great fun to have your beloved pet around on this special day, but you don’t want to worry about them the whole time.

Incorporating your pet into your wedding celebration can make it even more memorable and heartwarming. However, it’s essential to consider your pet’s well-being and comfort throughout the process. With careful planning, you can create a paw-some wedding that will be cherished by both you and your furry friend for a lifetime.

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DWARF HAMSTERS

SB Magazine — Tue, 23 May 2023 19:34:32 +0000

Dwarf hamsters can make great pets for the right person. They are cute, small, and relatively easy to care for, making them popular for people looking for a small pet. Whether you’re looking for your first pet or something for your kids, hamsters can make great pets and can be really friendly with humans once they’ve been tamed. There are several different species of dwarf hamsters commonly kept as pets, including the Roborovski dwarf hamster, Campbell’s dwarf hamster, and the Winter White dwarf hamster. Each species has its own unique personality and care requirements, so it’s important to research and choose the one that best fits your lifestyle.

When caring for dwarf hamsters, providing them with a clean and safe living environment is essential. This means regularly cleaning their cage, providing them with a variety of toys and activities to keep them mentally stimulated, and feeding them a balanced diet of hamster food and fresh vegetables. It is also important to handle your dwarf hamster regularly to socialize them and help them bond with you. Like any new friendship, it takes time to get to know someone and feel comfortable with them. After a few days of giving them food and water, you should have a new furry friend!

Whether or not you should get a dwarf hamster as a pet ultimately depends on your personal preferences and lifestyle. Four little paws, two bright eyes, and a set of twitchy whiskers. There’s nothing cuter than a pet hamster! But before getting a dwarf hamster as a pet, remember to consider your lifestyle, living arrangements, and ability to provide for their care. They are also nocturnal animals, which means they are most active at night and may not be suitable for everyone’s schedule.

Here are a few reasons why someone might consider getting a dwarf hamster as a pet:

Small size
Dwarf hamsters don’t take up a lot of space, making them a good option for people who live in small apartments or people who don’t have a lot of extra space in their homes.

Lifespan
They have a relatively short lifespan of about 2-3 years, although some may live longer with the correct care.

Low-maintenance
Dwarf hamsters are relatively low-maintenance pets, making them a good choice for someone who wants a pet but doesn’t have a lot of extra time. They don’t require daily walks or grooming like some other pets, and they’re generally self-sufficient.

Entertaining
Dwarf hamsters are cute and fun to watch, especially when they’re running on their wheel or playing with toys. They can provide entertainment and companionship for their owners.

Affordable
Compared to some other types of pets, dwarf hamsters are relatively affordable to purchase and care for. They don’t require expensive equipment or specialized diets, and their veterinary care is typically less expensive than that of larger pets.

Educational
Caring for a dwarf hamster can be an educational experience, especially for children. They can learn about the responsibility of pet ownership, as well as the behaviors and habits of these interesting little animals.

Ultimately, if you’re considering getting a dwarf hamster as a pet, it’s important to do your research and make sure you’re prepared to provide them with the care and attention they need to thrive. This medium-maintenance pet is a wonderful option when making the big decision to get a pet. But remember, they are active creatures, meaning that they love to explore and play, and they thrive in an interactive environment. This means you will be an essential part of their life and they will develop a relationship with you. They are small, adorable, and entertaining animals that can fill life with extra fun, joy, and companionship.

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Physical and Mental Benefits of Being a Pet Owner

SB Magazine — Tue, 18 Apr 2023 18:32:42 +0000

Pet ownership soared during the pandemic and some shelters across the country found themselves empty of pets for the first time in history. Many people sought out the companionship of a pet to help manage the loneliness and isolation brought on by lockdown and the pandemic. For many people (and we know who we are), pets are much more than just animals – they are beloved family members. Pet ownership can provide a deep, meaningful connection with a living creature, and this special bond between pet and owner has numerous psychological and physical benefits. Numerous studies have shown that owning a pet can have a positive impact on mental and physical health and can help alleviate symptoms of anxiety, depression, and stress. Here are just a few of the many ways our furry friends can improve the quality of our lives:

Reduction in stress and anxiety: Studies have shown that spending time with pets can help reduce stress and anxiety. The special bond you have with your pet can reduce feelings of anxiety and help cope with ailments that are exacerbated by stress. Pets provide a calming presence, and their unconditional love and affectionate behavior can help to lower levels of cortisol, a hormone that is associated with stress. Having that excited dog to greet you when you come home or having a warm fur baby to cuddle up with on the sofa can provide a sense of security and comfort and can help reduce feelings of anxiety. Tending to your pets feeding schedule, play time and grooming can provide a sense of routine, which also helps to alleviate anxiety.
Of course, in order to benefit from the calming influence, you do need to make sure your pets are relaxed and happy, so doing some research on things like why dogs are scared of fireworks and how to help them can be useful.
Improved mood and decreased depression: Pets can have a positive impact on our mood and mental state. Spending time with a pet can increase the production of endorphins, the brain’s feel-good chemicals, which can help to boost our mood and decrease feelings of depression. In addition, pets provide unconditional love and companionship, which can help to combat feelings of loneliness and isolation. Many people became new pet owners during the pandemic for this very reason. For individuals prone to mental health struggles, pets can provide a distraction and disruption from distressing symptoms, such as ruminating negative thoughts. Using animals to promote mental wellness has been formally adopted by hospitals, nursing homes and other facilities. Animal-Assisted Therapy or Pet-Facilitated Therapy (PFT) has been shown to be a valuable adjunct to traditional medical and psychological treatment approaches. Dogs, cats, rabbits, horses and even llamas have been used in pet-assisted therapy and have shown to have beneficial events in a wide range of conditions such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, Alzheimer’s disease, dementia, and autism. There is some evidence to suggest that the human-animal bond may reduce the risk of suicide, a health threat that disproportionately affects U.S. military veterans.
Increased socialization and sense of community: Pets can be a great way to meet new people and make friends. Whether it is taking a dog for a walk in the park or joining a cat-lovers group online, pets can provide opportunities for socialization and a sense of community. Dog parks are very friendly places, not just for the dogs, but for the humans as well. Meeting and chatting with fellow pet owners can help to combat loneliness and can be a great way to connect with others, especially for people who are shy, struggle with social anxiety or have a hard time making new friends. I have had some of the nicest conversations with strangers in the veterinarian’s waiting room. Most pet owners are happy to chat about their pet with others.
Enhanced sense of purpose and responsibility: Pets are family members. Like humans, they need love, healthcare, feeding schedules and attention. Caring for a pet can provide a sense of purpose and responsibility. Pets are totally dependent on their owners, and taking care of them can provide a sense of accomplishment and fulfillment. Pets can be a great way to introduce chores and teach responsibility in children. Pets also provide children with opportunities to learn about demonstrating nurture and affection. A University of Cambridge study, which examined pet ownership and children over a 10-year time span, found that children who had a strong relationship with their pets exhibited higher levels of pro-social behavior (e.g., sharing, helping) in comparison to their peers.
Increased physical activity: Many pets, such as dogs, require daily exercise. A Michigan Behavioral Risk Factor Survey found that approximately 60% of dog walkers met the criteria for regular moderate to vigorous exercise, in comparison to only 45% of non-dog owners. Having a cat or a dog has been shown to be beneficial for your blood pressure. Being a dog owner is associated with lower diastolic and systolic blood pressure. The National Health and Nutrition Examination study looked at pet ownership over a 20-year time span. The study of over 2,400 cat owners concluded that there was a significantly lower relative risk of death due to cardiovascular diseases, including stroke and heart attack, compared to non-owners. Pets can help us get regular exercise, and this has been shown to have numerous physical and psychological benefits.

The rewards provided by pets are too many to list. If you’ve had a tough day or a personal crisis, the unconditional love and support a pet can provide can be priceless. Many people report that their pets have helped them get through difficult times.

While pet ownership clearly has enormous benefits, it is not without commitment and challenges. Before getting a pet, carefully consider your lifestyle. Do you stay late at work? Do you travel often? Pets require time, attention, and financial resources. Make sure you are at the right point in your life to be able to responsibly take on a pet. A good fit between you and your pet can enhance your life immensely.

Michelle Yetman, PhD, is a Clinical Associate Professor at LSU Health Shreveport and a Clinical Psychologist for the Children’s Center at the LSUHS School of Allied Health Professions.

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NATIONAL PET DAY

SB Magazine — Tue, 11 Apr 2023 09:04:13 +0000

National Pet Day is celebrated annually on April 11th and is dedicated to celebrating the joy and companionship that pets bring to our lives, as well as raising awareness about pet adoption and animal welfare. According to the American Pet Products Association, approximately 67% of U.S. households own a pet. The most popular pets are dogs and cats, followed by fish, birds, and other small animals like hamsters and guinea pigs. Many people believe that owning a pet can have positive effects on mental and physical health, including reducing stress, increasing exercise, and improving social connections. On National Pet Day, people are encouraged to show their love and appreciation for their pets by spending time with them, spoiling them with treats and toys, and sharing photos and stories about their pets on social media.

In addition to celebrating our own pets, National Pet Day is also a time to raise awareness about pet adoption and the importance of responsible pet ownership. Many animal shelters and rescue organizations hold special adoption events and fundraisers on this day to help find loving homes for pets in need. This day is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the special bond that we share with our pets and to promote the well being of animals in our communities.

There are many ways to celebrate National Pet Day and show your love and appreciation for your furry friends. Here are some ideas:

Spend quality time with your pet: Take your dog for a long walk, play with your cat, or simply cuddle up with your pet on the couch.
Spoil your pet with treats and toys: Treat your pet to their favorite treats and toys, or surprise them with a new toy or a special treat they haven’t tried before.
Share photos and stories about your pet on social media: Use the hashtag #NationalPetDay to share photos and stories about your pet on social media and celebrate the special bond you share.
Make a donation to an animal shelter or rescue organization: Make a donation to a local animal or rescue organization to help support their efforts in caring for animals in need.
Volunteer at a local animal shelter: Offer your time and support by volunteering at a local animal shelter or rescue organization. You can help with tasks such as walking dogs, cleaning cages, and playing with cats.
Adopt a pet: If you’ve been considering adopting a pet, National Pet Day is a great time to take the leap and give a loving home to an animal in need.

Remember, celebrating National Pet Day is not just about spoiling our own pets, but also about promoting animal welfare and raising awareness about the importance of responsible pet ownership. Whatever you choose to do, make sure to show your love for your pets, and consider ways to help support the well-being of animals in your community.

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“The Krewe of Barkus and Meoux”

SB Magazine — Mon, 10 Apr 2023 16:22:03 +0000

Barksdale Air Force officer Lindsay Cordero publishes children’s book influenced by Mardi Gras parade

USAF Major Lindsay Cordero had a pet project locked away in her mind, until her commander gave her the key to set it free.

“She asked me, ‘Lindsay, if you were doing anything outside of the Air Force, what would it be?’” Lindsay said. “I answered, like immediately, ‘I would totally be writing children’s books.’ And she was like, ‘So, why don’t you?’”

So that’s what Lindsay did. And she knew just what her inspiration would be.

“I went to the Krewe of Barkus and Meoux parade,” she said. “Fell in love with it!”

That was 2018. Lindsay had big plans for the 2019 pet parade. She was going to dress up her cat and join in the festivities. But she had to miss the parade that year for a work trip. Her reaction to missing the parade caught her attention.

“I was so upset about it,” she said. “I was like, ‘There’s something about this. Maybe this is what my first children’s book should be about. The whole krewe is so friendly and supportive. They do such amazing things in the community for animals. There’s definitely something there.’”

Only one thing stood in her way — Lindsay had no idea how to write a children’s book.

“I think my first draft was over 2,000 words,” she said. “Children’s books are not 2,000 words. They are 200 to 500.”

She spent a year “unwriting” the story — “killing all the darlings,” as she puts it — and slashed the story to a mere 257 words. The next step was bringing the words to life with illustrations. Even for an accomplished artist, that presented a challenge.

“I hadn’t learned how to create a visual narrative,” she said. “It’s not a set of single paintings you have in a children’s book. It’s an entire visual story.”

Lindsay learned how to do that through an online course in children’s book illustration from the Rhode Island School of Design.

She put everything she had learned about writing and illustrating a children’s book together. By 2021, Lindsay had her book dummy in hand, and she was on her way to seeing the dream become a reality. She just didn’t know how long a road she still had to travel.

“I began pitching it to publishers,” she said. “Each month I pitched it to a different publisher or agent and each month was rejected.”

She’s able to chuckle about that now as she recalls the process. That’s because she eventually pitched the project to Pelican Publishing in New Orleans.

“They were immediately like, ‘This is a yes for us. Let’s do it.’”

She signed a book deal in early 2022. She completed all of the artwork by the end of March that year. And that September, “The Krewe of Barkus and Meoux” was released, just in time for the Christmas and Mardi Gras seasons.

“It’s been crazy, thinking back,” Lindsay said. “I saw the pet parade for the first time in 2018, missed it in 2019, so upset. Started trying to write everything. It was a long journey.”

The book transforms Shreveport’s vaunted Mardi Gras pet parade into “a dance battle of Mardi Gras proportions” set in the French Quarter, Lindsay explains. The Krewe of Barkus and the Krewe of Meoux parade against each other to determine which will come out on top.

“Spoiler alert… the party gets so crazy, they end up deciding they are going to combine krewes and become the Krewe of Barkus and Meoux. It’s a bit of a story about collaboration over competition. It’s just a silly story.”

That silliness in the story is simply a reflection of the spirit of the parade in Lindsay’s mind.

“It’s silly in the best way,” she said. “People have the best costumes for their pets. I live to see it. It’s just so fun!”

Before she even had the idea for a book, Lindsay wanted to celebrate that silliness, like a chihuahua dressed as a ringmaster in a blue, glittery costume or a horse dressed up like a unicorn.

“It was so visually appealing to me,” she said as she recalled her inaugural parade. “I was like, ‘I have to make it into artwork.’ The storyline kind of flowed from there.”

Lindsay knew at 15 that she wanted to pursue her creative interests. That’s not an easy sell growing up in a military family.

“My whole family is Navy and Air Force,” she said. “They were like, ‘What are you going to do? You have to be able to put food on the table. Why don’t you just go into the military?’”

So that’s what she did.

After high school she attended the U.S. Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, Colo. While she was there, she gave up “frivolous pursuits” like creating to focus her time and energy on the “serious profession” of becoming an officer.

She received her degree in 2013 from the academy and started her active-duty career. Along the way, she learned that engaging her artistic side made her a better officer, and a better person.

“I kind of betrayed myself a little,” Lindsay said about giving up her art in college. “Whenever I am aligned with my creativity, I am best able to serve. I am most authentically able to lead and live in my own life.”

By 2015, she had returned to art and was selling commissions.

“I couldn’t not make art,” she said. “There was no way I could hold it in.”

She took commissions until she focused her creative energy on creating the book. And while she still enjoys the Air Force, Lindsay feels called to create more children’s books. She is pivoting off of active duty as a legislative liaison for Global Strike Command at Barksdale Air Force Base to Air Force Reserves so she can dedicate herself to her creative work full time.

Lindsay has several more story ideas she is pursuing. They hit her all the time, like when she’s driving. Still, she acknowledges that her creative process remains a mystery.
“It’s difficult to pinpoint where the creative spark occurs,” she said. “Sometimes it’s the writing. Sometimes it’s the art. Sometimes it occurs simultaneously to me, almost like watching a movie that has dialog.”

With “The Krewe of Barkus and Meoux,” it started with the writing.

“I had to get the draft out,” Lindsay said. “Just get all the words out on paper. People ask me what that first draft needs to look like. I tell them it just needs to exist. It’s perfect if it just exists.”

Once the words were refined, Lindsay put what she learned from RISD to work illustrating the story. That’s where her analogy about filmmaking came into play.

“Every page, or two-page spread, is a scene,” Lindsay explained. “In every scene, I have to consider lighting, character’s costumes, positioning on stage, the angle of the camera, or the viewer, as they see the pets parading.”

And like most great movie makers, Lindsay made a choice to go off-script.

“This was bit daring of me,” she said. “I wanted the color in the story to visually represent the sound of that jazz music as the pets paraded through it.”

The hottest colors represent the loudest sounds of the parade. Black and white areas of the artwork reflect moments of rest when there is no sound. She used contrasting, cooler Mardi Gras colors on every fourth spread to replicate a jazz rhythm.

There are many more Easter eggs in the artwork for readers to discover as well. The fortune-telling cat in the story is based on her “fat, sassy” cat named Jackie Daytona.

“There’s so much nuance here,” she said. “There’s a lot of craft that goes into making the art for a children’s book. The visuals have to carry what the words cannot.”

With her debut book released, Lindsay said she is invigorated by the process. She wants others to know what that feeling is like.

“I hope everyone can find that thing that they can do for four years, feeling like you made no progress, but it keeps you so alive,” she said. “That’s how creativity works. You have to be so attached to that idea that you can’t let it go. That’s exactly how I felt about this Mardi Gras pet parade.”

She shares that enthusiasm at events to promote the book, including an art auction in Ohio. She worked with Meridian Healthcare and donated an original work of art from the book to benefit families struggling with addiction and homeless veterans.

“I was signing my Mardi Gras book in Ohio, and people would ask, ‘What is Mardi Gras? I’m like, ‘It’s this great time with a lot of parades.’ They’re like, ‘Can anyone do this?’ I said, ‘Heck, yeah!’”

The reception for the book has exceeded her expectations, and not just in Ohio. She sold out of 200 books in three days at the Red River Revel.

“I had been told by creative colleagues and friends it probably won’t sell a whole lot in the beginning. At every one of my events, I have been selling out. It’s the craziest feeling. My book has sold in the United Kingdom, in Hawaii, places you wouldn’t expect. It’s such a thrill.”

The support she has received locally affirms for her the decision to write the book in the first place.

“It’s been such support from this community, and I am so grateful for it,” Lindsay said. “This is why I wanted to celebrate and elevate our pet parade here.”

Lindsay is grateful not only for the community she has found since releasing the book, but for the community that encouraged her to start the journey as well.

“I had this crazy idea,” she admits. “I took it seriously, but I didn’t know how to bring it to life. One of the first things I did was join the Society for Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators. It is the most supportive group of creatives — writers and artists. It’s a very safe space. Join the community of people that are similarly striving to do what you are wanting to do. Once I did that, that’s when I started to get momentum under me.”

“The Krewe of Barkus and Meoux” is available at 318 Art Co., Barnes & Noble, Amazon and other online retailers, and at Lindsay’s website, lindsaycordero.com.

The post “The Krewe of Barkus and Meoux” appeared first on SB Magazine.

GIVE FOR GOOD

SB Magazine — Tue, 04 Apr 2023 19:21:27 +0000

Community Foundation of North Louisiana (CFNLA) is thrilled to commemorate the 10th anniversary of North Louisiana’s largest giving event on May 2. Since its inception in 2014, Give For Good has inspired generosity from thousands of people who have given more than 70,000 donations and generated over $16 million in critical funding for local nonprofits. Last year, 214 area nonprofits raised a record-breaking $2.39 million from 4,684 donors.

Established in 1961, CFNLA oversees more than $180 million in assets for the benefit of North Louisiana. The funds generously donated to CFNLA by community members are invested for the community’s benefit and are returned to the community in the form of grants to a wide variety of charitable endeavors. Since inception, the Community Foundation has awarded over $100 million in grants to nonprofit organizations. Grants are provided through CFNLA’s competitive grants process, its many advised funds, and Give For Good. Relative to the competitive process, each year the Foundation accepts applications from eligible charitable organizations. The Foundation then carefully vets those applications to determine how donor dollars may be spent the most efficiently and effectively to address our community’s most pressing needs. Competitive Grant Awards are announced every year in April.

In addition to its competitive grants, CFNLA hosts Give For Good as part of its mission to increase local philanthropy and enhance the quality of life in North Louisiana. Through Give For Good, community members discover area nonprofit organizations and may make contributions to support one or many causes. This unique day of giving raises unrestricted dollars for a wide variety of charitable causes that make our community stronger. From programs providing basic needs assistance and services for victims of abuse, to animal services and healthcare, education, and the arts, these organizations touch the lives of every member of the North Louisiana community.

Give For Good is a day to celebrate philanthropy and the important work of local nonprofits. It also provides a great vehicle for first time donors and younger donors. This is because donations at any level can really make a difference. A community giving collectively is much more powerful than any one donor alone. Whether a donation is $10 or $10,000, all donations are transformational for our community and indispensable to the nonprofit services they support.

Since Give For Good began in 2014, the number of donors, the total amount raised, and the number of participating nonprofits have more than doubled! This is due in part to the Lagniappe Fund, a bonus pool of more than $200,000 that matches donations on a pro rata basis and gives participating nonprofits “a little something extra.” Each year, CFNLA contributes $100,000 to the Lagniappe Fund. CFNLA then raises additional funds through community and corporate sponsorships. The 2023 Lagniappe Fund Sponsors to date include: the Grayson Foundation; the Powers Foundation; Blue Cross Blue Shield of Louisiana; The Heard, McElroy, and Vestal Advised Fund; Willis Knighton Health System; and other private donors.

Throughout the event, $22,000 in prizes are awarded to nonprofits, including one every hour during the 24 hours of Give For Good day. Organizations can earn prizes by engaging the most donors, receiving the most donations at certain times of the day, and hitting other fundraising milestones. For instance, the Million Dollar Prize is awarded to the organization which receives the donation that tips the total raised over $1 million while the 1961 Prize is awarded to the organization that receives the 1,961st donation, inspired by CFNLA’s founding year. The Lagniappe Fund has awarded more than $2.2 million in bonus funds and prizes to participating nonprofits.

The user-friendly website (giveforgoodnla.org) provides donors a tool to search for organizations that align with community issues they are most passionate about. As a new or returning donor, you can search for organizations by service sector, parishes served, operating budget size, and more. Giving opens on April 18th and will close at 11:59pm on May 2nd. Please show your support for these worthy causes by donating to one of the 216 participating nonprofits and make the 10th anniversary the biggest, most impactful Give For Good yet!

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