Charlestown Pet Group
Meeting Minutes 04/25/2023
David Elder, Chair, opened the meeting at 11:01. 20 members were in attendance. Minutes from the March Meeting were approved.

Allison Chlada, Coordinator Volunteer Program and Community Resources, spoke to the group about the Pet Volunteer program. She vets the pets to determine if they are of suitable temperament. They are then registered with the facility and can be taken to visit. You can also take your vaccinated pet to visit a specific person. The pet still needs to be registered.

Service animals, registered therapy animals and pet volunteers are allowed to ride on the Campus Shuttle. Be considerate. It is recommended that you ask if anyone is uncomfortable before boarding the shuttle with your pet. If interested in the program, contact Allison at ext.601-8133 or allison.chlada@erickson.com

Old Business

 It is imperative that all pet owners read and follow the rules as stated in the Resident’s Handbook Appendix E or we could lose the privilege of having a pet. The book clearly says, “Pets must be on a leash or in a cage at all times when outside your apartment and should never be allowed to run free.”
 Small pet owners should keep in mind that there are foxes on the grounds.
 Items are collected for donation to shelters. If you have any items for donation bring them to the next meeting or contact Elsie Kemp or Otto Greul by email or phone. If you need any items, let them know. Contact information can be found in the Resident Directory, available on MyErickson.

New Business

 Welcome to new pet owners Jeannette Baugher and Jackie Stephens.
 Dog owners are pleased with the conditions of the grass at the 2 dog parks and see no reason to change to astroturf. In fact, astroturf may not be a safe choice.
 Thanks to Charlestown for providing the dog bags.
 There will be an article from the Pet Group in the next Sunburst. If you have any ideas for articles, or have seen something that may be of interest, contact Elsie Kemp. She will appreciate the suggestions!
 It’s time to renew Pet Licenses. Baltimore County and Charlestown require a license for all dogs. Rabies shots much be up to date to obtain a license. To renew online, or get forms, go to Apply for and Renew an Animal License – Baltimore County (baltimorecountymd.gov) or call 410-887-3630. If you need help, contact your building rep.
 Cat Clinic information: Next dates :May 19, July 14, September 8 and November 17 Clinics are held In the Cross Creek Arts Room from 8 – 11 am. Please call Dr Nesbitt (410-869-0800) for an appointment.
 The group has 174 Humans, 127 cats, 71 dogs, 3 birds, a rabbit, and a lizard. This brings Charlestown to over 200 reported pets! Please let Otto know when a resident gets a new pet or loses one.
 The meeting was adjourned at 12:00.
THE NEXT MEETING IS May 23, 2023 – always on the 4th Tuesday at 11AM in Brookside Classroom 2. (No meeting July, August or December)

20230425 Pet Group Minutes V2AN