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A Place to announce lost & found pets in the Bozeman area. Please also:1. Notify KGLT, they broadcast lost pets...994.4492 Every day at Noon, AND usually when you call it in, that DJ will announce it. 2. Rep

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A 24/7 operation lost & found. Please post lost & found pets and pass it on to all of your local friends, so each person's fur child may be found quickly.

I have lost and found my share of pets, KGLT/KMMS and Heart of the Valley are an integral part of them being found. This Facebook page will help facilitate the process of the reunion with their owners and provide a place to go when the other businesses are closed.

Please also do the following in advertising the lost pet:

1. Notify KGLT, they broadcast lost pets...994.4492 Every day at Noon, AND usually when you call it in, that DJ will announce it.

2. Report the lost pet to Animal Control 406.582-2000 ext. 2

3. Report the lost pet with photo to Heart of the Valley Animal Shelter,
406.388-9399

4. Run in Lost & Found in the Bozeman Chronicle, which is free for 7 days:

5. Post a photo flyer in the area the pet was lost, and near their home

In Livingston:
Call the shelter at (406) 222-2111 to report that your pet is missing. Do not wait a few days and see if the pet shows up first. new lost pet photo section on our new website: http://staffordanimalshelter.org/lost-found-pets/

After 3 days at the shelter, the animal becomes the property of HSPC and will be evaluated for adoption. Adoptions are final. New adopters of unclaimed strays will not be contacted to return a pet if the original owner shows up. As a general rule, once your pet has been missing overnight, please call the shelter as soon as possible.

Go to the shelter and look at all the animals. It is not possible in many cases to confirm a pet's identity over the phone. Please advise a staff member as to the purpose of your visit because sick or injured strays might be at an off site veterinary clinic. If we do not have your pet, make sure you fill out a lost pet report at the desk. Please bring us a picture of your pet. We will notify you as soon as anyone calls or brings in any possible match. After your initial visit, we recommend shelter visits two to three times a week in order to view all strays received. Be patient and don't give up too soon!

Call the Enterprise at 222-2000 to place a LOST PET classified ad. Also call KPRK at 222-1340 and they will announce your lost pet on the air.

Post pictures of you pet at convenience stores, on telephone poles, and in grocery stores near the location your animal was lost. We encourage you to check with us twice a week if your pet is still missing. Our voice mail is on during the evening for your convenience or you may email us via this site. Please give both the pet's name and your name when you call or write. We keep lost pets on our active list for 3 months. We will keep the pet on the active list even longer if you request.

Please notify us when your pet is found.

1.  Feed your dog 3 hours prior to leaving on a long trip.  Take your dog for a walk just before you start the drive and he/she will be more comfortable as the trip gets underway.

2.  To reduce driver distraction use a restraining harness or barrier.  They come in different sizes to fit all breeds and are available at pet supply stores.

3.  Long road trips can be boring for children; make sure your dog and children each have adequate room.  A barrier or harness can ensure each stay in their own space.

4. Keep the car well ventilated.

5. During stops, provide fresh water.  Stop frequently for exercise and bathroom breaks.  Every 2-3 hours is recommended.  Always put your dog on a leash before letting him out of the car.

6.  Never ever leave your dog unattended in a closed vehicle.

7.  Feed your dog shortly after you arrive at your destination or when you have stopped for the day.

Springtime generates a lot of home improvement activity. Many buyers are out shopping for their new home. With the purchase of their home, the desire to remodel often comes next. For others, the drastically fluctuating housing prices are causing homeowners to stay put and that’s causing them to want to remodel their existing footprint.

Whether it’s a room addition or the renovation of a kitchen to upgrade amenities and make the space feel more comfortable to suit your needs, precautionary steps to get the most out of your remodeling project will create the best outcome.

Some of the most popular remodeling projects have to do with creating homes that are livable for all ages. The National Association of Home Builders says, in 2010, that 62 percent of surveyed builders were working on “aging in place” modifications.

That means granny flats or in-law apartments (extra rooms with kitchenettes) are becoming staples in homes. As baby boomers ease into their golden years this type of remodeling project will continue to grow. Entry-level bedrooms are also popular additions due to the ease of access for the elderly.

Some remodeling companies are now requiring their staff to become Certified Aging in Place specialists so they can offer expertise in designing and modifying buildings and homes for the elderly. Another hot trend is using outdoor living space to expand the home’s square footage. What’s hot in outside remodels? It may be expensive but natural stone is all the rage. Gourmet grilling kitchens, fireplaces, flat screen TVs with surround sound and big comfy couches turn the backyard into a cozy space to relax and entertain.

Regardless of which type of remodel you’re planning to do, finding the right contractor for the job is vital and can be a difficult task.

The National Homebuilders Association offers some tips for homeowners to help them navigate the process. Here are some important precautionary measures to take before your hire a remodeler.

Check with NAHB.org to find a remodeler who is a member of the National Association of Homebuilders. You can also check with the Better Business Bureau at BBB.org to look up the company’s rating. Of course, family and friends can also offer referrals but checking with professional associations can help provide background information that a friend might not be able to.

Another great way to find a remodeler is to scope out the companies who are working in the neighborhood or an area that you like. Try to stop in and see if you’re able to tour the house and speak with the homeowners. Be sure to ask questions about how smoothly the overall project went and if the crew kept the area clean during the project.

After you have done your research and decided that you like the company’s work, keep in mind that you should also make sure that you can work with its employees. Do you like their style of communication? Do you feel like your ideas are being heard? Are they paying attention to the design style that you want?

The NAHB says before you sign a contract make sure you’ve looked at all the bids carefully and watch out for extremely low bids. “Make sure the builder/remodeler provides you with a complete and clearly written contract. The contract will benefit both of you. If you are having a new home built, get and review a copy of the home warranty and homeowner manual as well.” Also, check to make sure the company carries workers compensation and general liability insurance.

Finally, remember to clearly convey your wants and needs regarding your remodeling project. This helps both you and the remodeler to manage expectations and, ultimately, ensure that you get exactly what you want.

Written by Phoebe Chongchua

With home affordability at the highest rate seen in decades, now is prime time to make a purchase.

Many renters are wanting to turn over a new leaf by investing in a starter home. Current homeowners are wanting to take advantage of low prices and buy the home of their dreams.

The key to buying in today's market is having the funds and financial stability needed. How can you go about saving to buy a home?

Financial wiz Suze Orman tells her readers and viewers all the time about the benefits of homeownership, but also the importance of being financially ready for this move. She writes, "Never buy a home or piece of real estate if you do not have at least 10% to 20% to put down. While buying a home is a great investment, if you do not have at least 10% to 20% of the purchase price to put down, then you can't afford the home and are buying before you have demonstrated the ability to save, which is a bad idea in the current market."

How do you get to that point? The first and most important step is to commit to the goal of homeownership. This requires a change in habits. Many households today spend every penny that they make each month. Instead of saving 10, 20, or 30 percent of their monthly income like they should, they strategically make minimum payments. Still others spend further beyond their means and slip further into debt with each purchase.

Both of these habits are incredibly risky in an economy that sees a near 9 percent unemployment rate and slowed growth in most cities. In order to change old habits you must replace them with new habits.

Start by working out a budget. It can be very sobering to see the real numbers on your spending. Keep track of your spending for a month. See how much you are truly spending on dining out, entertainment, household spending, clothes, and all those little extras that add up. This goes double for cash purchases. Be sure to keep every single receipt.

Now that you have the facts, it's time to come up with a new budget. Set aside money for all of the necessities first (rent, mortgage, car payment, food, medical, etc).

Cut out the unnecessary items. Do you have to have cable? Perhaps you can change over to a smaller package that costs less each month. Do you need to go out to dinner multiple times a week? Instead choose to cook at home as a family.

Now that you've cut out the unnecessary and refocused your spending (or not spending) towards buying a home, it's time to funnel those extra funds into a savings account. Some people new to the savings game find it easiest to set up an automatic savings transfer each month that transfers a set amount. This keeps you obligated to your goal.

You'll have some wants that will be part of this budget. Some people like to dine out, shop for clothes, see movies, or go to concerts. This is fine if you can afford it, but in a real down and dirty savings game, you might want to consider alternatives.

Rent movies instead of taking the whole family out for new releases. Plan staycations in your own city instead of paying traveling and hotel costs. Finally, pack that daily lunch instead of dining out.

When you go shopping, including the grocery store, always go armed with a list. This will help reduce impulse shopping. Only buy items that are truly needed, not that simply catch your eye. Give bigger purchases some time and thought. Do you need that new TV? Wait a week or two and do comparison shopping and decide on what you really can afford.

Ultimately, learning to save is about learning to follow your own instincts. Our gut tells us when we're making an impulsive buy or spending more than we should. It tells us when we could easily bring lunch from home instead of going out to eat. It just takes listening.

Written by Carla Hill

www.bassetrescueofmontana.org

I will say, they had an amazing selection of dog toys (I wanted one of everything) dog gear, dog beds, and interesting products that you can't find just anywhere.

The owners are Meline and Brodie Bergeson who also carry the Invisible Fence brand as well.

Best of luck to them.

The next time you are near Four Corners, you have got to stop by the Bozeman Dog Company. What a treat!!!

Bozeman's favorite skateboarding bulldog is putting his celebrity to use.

While he boards around parking lots, owners Keri Nelson and Dan Yarnell get a change to talk to people who stop to take a look.  "I kept thinking, 'We should be doing more, we should be doing more," Nelson said.

So Nelson and Yarnell changed their tactics, talking with other pet owners about the importance of spaying and neutering and the work of shelters with no-kill policies.  Then, they designed a Lil Moe sticker, with proceeds going to the local shelter, Heart of the Valley.  Lil Moe made an appearance at the Heart of the Valley's open house and plans to be at kids' camps and Woofstock.

"(The outreach is" fresh and new, but there's definitely more to com," Nelson said.

Most recently, Lil Moe has teamed up with a doggie friend, Charity, as Bullies against Bullying, another cause nelson said is important.

Due to his efforts, Lil Moe is nominated as an Emerging Hero Dog for the 2012 American Human Association Hero Dog Awards (www.herodogawards.org).  Online voting is open through June.

To keep up with Lil Moe, visit his Facebook page at www.facebook.com/lilmoefp.

Read the first Chronicle article on Lil Moe at http://bit.ly/J5spxA.

I had over 50 wonderful,clients,friends,neighbors,their children and yes,even their pets, attend my launch of my new Small Dog Realty . Many brought dog and cat food along with wine. I am so happy to spread the word about the local shelters that need our support.

Most of the food will go to the Dillon shelter this time. Susie(the woman in charge) has so many animals and almost no money-so I feel really happy to have helped feed the dogs and cats for another month.

I got a call the other day from a woman in Frenchtown Montana-she has a Basset rescue-again,no $. She has saved animals from abuse and starvation. Some of the food will also go to her. So,if you love basset Hounds,then maybe you can also help out. If not sending $-get the word out-We want and need good homes for these hounds too.

Every little bit helps out.

I am so happy that so many came out to my home to be part of the cause.

Please do what you can! 

Looking back,maybe it was some kind of male cow that some how just crossed the fence. Who knows? But really only in Montana and that's no bull!!! 

I received a great flyer from MetLife Bank explaining the basics of a Reverse Mortgage that I thought was good information to pass along.

I'll start with my blog and hopefully my IT folks will come up with another idea as well.

My #1 fav. is SnowFill-It's 30 fenced acres,with a huge dog dish and a well pump. The trails are wonderful,a lot of up  and downs. When we have snow,parents bring their children and they sled as the dogs chase them. Snow Fill is located on the North side of Bozeman-Rouse(off of Main) North  to Story Mill(the sign on the left says Bridger Creek Golf Course) follow about .5 miles turn left heading towards the golf course-pass it about 1/4 mile or so-it's on the right.

If you are south of town from Main st go north on Haggerty just past the ball fielsds-not so big,but fenced and a great place to socialize your hounds.

I love Drinking Horse for dog hikes-plenty of water and shade. it's North on Bridger Cyn  on the right side-I find it to be a little more dog friendly than the M.

Peets Hill-is the hub-lot's of bike riders,dogs and joggers- It's wonderful. Off of Church .

Bozeman Creek-another dog friendly place-in the winter watch for the cross country skiiers! Sourdough south to Nash turn west(rt) to BozemanCreek-left-follow gravel road about a mile. Plenty of water and trees.

Remember to clean up the dog poop and throw out the little green bags!!!!

I ran down to verizon asap with my broken phone in 1/2. They laughed. 

Now,which phone... Droid,but if I get a droid and don't like it my husband who is an I-Phone nut and just loves Seri,I would never hear the end of it.So,I took the plunge.  I got an I-Phone! So,exciting. I walked outside and realized I had no idea of even how to answer. It was like being thrown in the ocean in a huge storm. Well,it's so Easy!! I love Seri! I can text on the go,dog walk what ever.

I'm so glad that I was I was forced to take the plunge!

I will be a sponser of both the Dog Ball in Bozeman and the Fur Ball in Livingston-Yesterday I did a Costco run for dog, cat and puppy food for the Dillon Shelter.  I found someone going that direction that is more than happy to drop off food.  Why Costco? Because that is what they use. Even if we feed the animals just for a few weeks with that it helps.

So ,the new name... Two reasons:  #1. I have always had big labs-I think about 13 in total-never really considered a small dog-why would I... Well we adopted my stepdaughters' small dog (she is in school and couldn't have her) I love her!! Not only can she compete with the big dogs,she can do more-just trying to prove herself I guess. And she is so very cute!!! My attitude about small dogs has changed!

Reason #2.  I have had several people call me and tell me they tried selling or buying their home from one of these big dog companies and didn't like the experience.  I'm not competing with the big dog companies just as (for example)Bozeman Running Company isn't competing with a national shoe company. I  buy my shoes at the BRC because of the personal service I get and to help support a wonderful small business in my community.

Even if you don't need to buy or sell, maybe you can also give back to your community!

The tax is NOT a transfer tax on real estate sales and similar transactions. Not long after the tax was enacted, erroneous and misleading documents went viral on the Internet and created a great deal of misunderstanding and made the tax into something far more draconian than the actual provisions.

The new tax does NOT eliminate the benefits of the $250,000/$500,000 exclusion on the sale of a principal residence. Thus, ONLY that portion of a gain above those thresholds is included in AGI and could be subject to the tax.

This Friday I get to visit John Zombro- for a comprehensive orthopedic exam and training. I hope he can fix my aching body. Last week I went up to the M three different times.  The first was with my son,24 min's up,the next time with my running partner 22 min's up and yesterday(a little icy) still 22 min's up but that was only hiking. My son tells me I will get faster and it will be much easier. I was happy with that,usually it takes me about 35-40 min's with the dogs doing a fast stroll.  Then one of the wind drinker guys said they meet every Wed night at 5:30-usually they do about 27 min's,but that is round trip. This is so crazy,I am out of my league!! People are very excited for me.  It's a great honor to get to run the ridge in this Ed Anacker Bridger Ridge Run.

As for real estate,yes,I am working hard now so I can train hard this summer!!

Things are selling at great prices and there is light at the end of the tunnel!

The MOR(museum of the rockies) had some fantastic items on the live auction.  One was the "Ridge Run" if you don't know what that is either you are not from Bozeman or are not a runner.  It's 20 miles of what I view to be Hell!!! I always wondered who were these people that year after year did this crazy run.  I've heard the stories,about losing your toe nails,blisters,sun burnt,knees are shot etc.  and the training is nuts!

Only 267 people get to qualify for the run-essays are due in March and it's kind of like the Boston marathon kind of thing.

Well,there was a waiver for the run auctioned off-you get PT,massage,personal training from the Ridge and even new running shoes from Bozeman running company-a value of $700 bucks! We had 2 bidders-hard core runners-Now,I do run,but for the past 6 months I have had IT Band problems so my running is more of a jog-The bidding was at $600 and to get bids higher,my husband stops and asks if I'm in-I said"sure if you are buying" well,I was in,which was ok for about 30 seconds when I realized the other bidders thought let Pam have it. I had the winning bid!  300 people were cheeering,I was screaming-"what,no way can I run the Ridge!" I couldn't sleep that night-I kept thinking,what have I done.  Then I thought."Yes,I can do it!"  Yes,I am going to do it!" No,I don't plan to win it! Why not? It's now a goal.  I have always told my children you can do anything you put your mind to,now I must put my words into action.

Sometimes in life you have to go for it.  Could be your job,buying a new home or an adventure.  Many new exciting things coming this way for Pam McCutcheon.

Stay posted.

My training with begin April 2,2012.  The run is Aug 12.  I would welcome any training help!

That is not necessarily the case. Often times, the money a person will spend in promoting the home and listing it in other ways and the larger amount of time it will take to sell it yourself make it far more advantageous to be represented by a Real Estate Agent. There is a lot of work involved in selling a home that many people don’t realize beforehand.  Let’s look at six surprising reasons that going the FSBO route may not be a good idea.

#1 You May Miss Out on First-Time Buyers

Do you remember being a first time buyer? Many people who have never purchased a home before will be intimidated by FSBO because they aren’t familiar with the buying process. They will prefer to be walked through it by a professional, and are less likely to trust an owner. They will consider your reasons for not hiring an agent to make the listing for you, and may think you are trying to hide something from them. This in itself will cut you out of a large portion of buyers.

#2 You May Attract Unqualified Buyers

First time buyers aren’t the only ones who will question your ability to sell your own home. Other investors or professional buyers specifically look for homes that are for sell by owner, believing that since you are not familiar with all the details of selling a home, they can get it from you for an unreasonably low (and often unfair) price. In other cases, the buyers who look at your home may not even be qualified to purchase it!

#3 Your Realtor Has the Budget To Promote the Home

It may seem like realtors just stick a sign out front and answer the calls that come in but that is hardly the case. Realtors spend a good deal of money in advertising.  You don’t have the budget that your Realtor has to promote your home.  Most FSBOs are stuck putting their homes out there just the local newspaper or online classified advertising.

#4 Your Realtor Can Weed Out “Lookey-Loos”

There are a surprising number of people out there that are not legitimate buyers. These folks can waste your time, money and effort, as they have no intentions or are not qualified to buy, but may want to look at your home anyway. The time you spend showing your home to illegitimate buyers could be time spent actually selling the home to someone who is qualified. Realtors will weed out legitimate buyers from others who just want to waste your time.

#5 Your Realtor Can Handle the Red Tape

A Realtor will provide a standard real estate contract which can be altered by a lawyer. If you need to have a lawyer draft a real estate contract from scratch it will cost a lot more in the long run as far as fees are concerned.

#6 A Realtor is a Top Negotiator

Part of a Realtors job is to represent you. Before the sale gets to closing, buyers may make requests or demands that you would be less agreeable about or that would be unfair to you. A Realtor can make these negotiations, and help both parties arrive at resolutions that work for everyone. They are familiar with these kinds of situations, and know how to handle them.

To make the best decision you need to be sure to really give time to your decision making process. Yes, your gut can take you in the right direction, but don't be one of the many buyers that falls prey to listening only to their hearts, ending up biting off more than they can chew.

Some homes take more work than others. This goes double for older homes. The same can be said for many foreclosed houses. The price tag might be appealing or you might love the styling of the home, but keep in mind that much of a home's value is actually in its condition.

This is why it is imperative to have an inspection done on any home you are considering buying. Additionally, you should have a clause in your contract that states if the inspection comes back unsatisfactorily that you, the buyer, have the right to end the contract to buy.

Different homes also comes with different lifestyle factors. Some buyers love the idea of having everything within walking distance. They like spending their extra time meeting friends for dinner and drinks or perusing the latest art exhibit. Could a condo be a good fit? It's a definite possibility.

Homeownership comes with its share of time intensive responsibilities. Lawns need upkeeping. Repairs need made. A condo can give you the location you desire without all the extra maintenance you'd find with a single-family home. That means extra time for the things that really matter to you!

Condos, while low maintenance, however, can also have their downsides. You will share walls, common areas, and amenities with neighbors. If you are an extremely private person, then condo living may not be for you.

Do you prefer a more isolated setting? Many people love the idea of country life. Just keep in mind that the further you are from people, the further you are from grocery stores, hospitals, and restaurants.

The real key is to decide what lifestyle is best for you and your family. Once you've decided this, you'll be able to zero on the best location. Next, be sure to consider more than just the price tag of a home. Consider upkeep costs, area taxes, needed repairs, and even future saleability. Do your due diligence and you're sure to make the right choice!

Do you expect these housing-related expenses to increase or decrease?  What additional expenses are required to complete a purchase?(closing costs, moving expenses, etc.)  Are local market prices favorable to purchasing?  Do you qualify for any special purchasing assistance programs that can help reduce the cost of home ownership?  How does renting vs. buying factor into your long-term investing goals?  What are your personal preferences regarding the type of housing you wish to live in?  How does location factor into your housing preferences?  How do you expect your personal situation to change in terms of future housing needs?  What are your expectations concerning future employment?  And finally, what are your long-term personal and financial goals, with regard to housing?

If you would like to discuss any or all of this; give me a call. 

Contact the movers in plenty of time-things are pretty busy here in the Bozeman/Paradise Valley area-Get your date set.  Don't forget your lawn furniture as well. A binding estimate gives you in advance your cost of the move. 

Talk to your accountant to see what moving expenses may be tax deductible.

Inventory your things. What can be sold,donated to c

Make sure  to complete your pets veterinary  check ups and all vaccinations prior to your move. Get your pets medical records As your vet if a perscribed tranquilizing medication would be feasible to help your pet durning the move.

Ask your pet for a referrel of a good vet in the area-If he doesn't know,hopefully your realtor does.  Check around.

If it's a long drive-make sure you stop frequently to walk your dog-keep them on a leash at all times.

A micro chip is a great idea in addition to a collar with name tag and your cell #.

Pack their bed,dishes toys etc.

Don't leave windows open at your new place-Dogs and cats can become confused and could try to escape.

Don't change their routine or foods. If you always feed in the morning then continue to do so.

Don't treat your pets like cargo. Don't leave them in a hot car/truck or cold truck.  Many hotels are pet friendly-check them out before you travel.

Find out where all the dog parks are-hiking trails.

Try not to leave your pet unattended for a few days after the move.  They are smart and will soon figure out that it is their new home.

Enjoy your new home and your pets!

Over the holidays your home is usually at it's best-the smell of an evergreen tree,scented pine cones,cheerful music,and even the smell of warm sugar cookies. People are in the buying mood!

Over the years I have found to be really busy around the holidays-In Bozeman Montana,folks come in for skiing,hunting,Yellowstone National Park winter tours,etc.  It's a gerat time to sell!

Get your family on board to keep the house ready to show at any time-really what's wrong with having a beautiful clean home anyway,right?

If you do get a contract,then you can arrange the terms that will suite your needs. Thirty,sixty days... whatever works. 

Again,if you want to show your house to many qualified buyers and potentially sell your home then by all means,Leave it on the market!!!

#1Stay healthy. We are so busy with parties,gifts,clients etc that we forget the most important part-our bodies. Make sure you stay on schedule as much as you can.  Get plenty of sleep,keep to your excercise program-if you don't have one,Start Now!!! It's cold here but that doesn't stop most of us-dress for it and embrace it!! There is much food everywhere along with the best cookies ever-moderation!!! Enjoy but repent the next day.

#2Try to avoid being caught up in a hurricane of anxiety-approach the next 5-6 weeks by being practical and positive.

#3Simplify,prioritize and find balance. Make sure you identify the most important activities for you and your family. If holiday shopping causes you stress-check out my other website at www.sendoutcards/136169. You can send all your cards,gift cards,gifts with a few clicks of a button-This produce has saved me tons of time and $.  I am also able to make a personal card for someone-Sendoutcards does all of the mailings too!  No more lines at the post office and over paying for cards.

#4Don't lose yourself! In many parts of the world,holiday means vacation.  The holidays really are like a vacation-a vacation from the same day in and day out stuff.

#5 The real meaning of the season. Let's all look past the decadent meals,treats and gifts.  What is the real significance of this time of year for you and your family. What are the holidays about for you.  Is it quality time with family,friends,helping those in need or counting your blessings.  Whatever it is to you just remember it's really alot more than just tinsel,toffee etc.  Maintain a bit of perpective and enjoy this upcomming season.

#6Just enjoy!

If your home is going to be involved in a short sale then the lending institition will want a BPO-Broker Price Opinion. BPO's are also being done now for government programs aimed at helping homeowners avoid foreclosure.

For more information on pricing your home contact me.