The below content replicates the content of the physical exhibit at CSU Spur. It can be used for reference, language translation, and additional accessibility.
206A – Millie the Cat
Nice to meet you!
Hello, my name is Millie. I am about 12 years old and live on a small farm outside of Denver. I spend my days playing, and sleeping as much as I can. Did you know cats sleep up to 16 hours a day?
How I Communicate
When I want to get my human friend’s attention I purr and meow. When I’m around my other cat friends, we mostly use each other’s scents and body language to communicate.
Keep Birds Safe
As a young cat I spent my days outside. I loved to hunt and keep the mice away. I also hunted birds, so now my humans have me stay inside to protect birds. Staying inside also keeps me safe from diseases.
Keeping Active on My Catio
I stay active playing with toys and spending time in my catio (my enclosed patio), which lets me be outside in a safe space. I love to climb up to my perch and soak in the sun.
Meat Protein for Me, Please
Unlike some dogs I know, I am not a vegetarian! Meat is the foundation of our diets. Too much dry food can be unhealthy for cats.
Other Ways I Stay Healthy
Part of keeping me healthy means my humans brush me every day. I also like to drink a lot of water, so my humans make sure my bowl is always full. And they keep my litter boxes clean.
Spaying and Neutering Keeps Us Healthy
I’m lucky to have a home, but so many cats are waiting in shelters for a family of their own. That’s why I am a spayed cat, which means I won’t have kittens. Spaying and neutering cats also protects us from diseases.
It’s Nap Time!
Well, friend, it’s time for my nap, but it was so nice to meet you! Come visit me again to learn more about me and my friends.
206B – Thunder the Dog
Welcome to My Farm!
My name is Thunder, and I’m 5 years old. I was adopted from the Dumb Friends League. Did you know that dogs descended from wolves? Dogs first became pets over 15,000 years ago, after humans domesticated us!
My Job on the Farm
It’s my job to protect my humans and the farm. I keep my humans company, I bark when people visit, and I protect the cows by making sure animals like foxes and raccoons don’t come onto our property.
Healthy Eating
My human family takes care of me with a healthy diet. My favorite is when they mix in a little broth with my kibble— it’s like a little treat with dinner. Fresh water and clean bowls also keep me healthy.
Other Ways I Stay Healthy
My coat is brushed regularly to limit my shedding. My humans also give me a bath every few months, and I see my vet every year for check-ups and to get all my shots.
Remember to Spay/Neuter Your Dog
When you spay or neuter your pet, it can make them healthier and better behaved. Plus, the world already has lots of pets who need homes and want to be adopted by loving families.
How to Approach a Dog
Dogs are particular about how you meet us. First, ask our owner for permission to greet us. Let us dogs come to you by holding out your hand for us to sniff to help us feel safe and comfortable.
Spot, the Ambassadog!
My friend Spot was found as a stray dog. He came to Dumb Friends League and was adopted a week later! He’s now an “ambassadog” and goes to schools to teach students about how important it is to adopt shelter animals.
Thanks for Stopping By!
I hope you learned something new about dogs. I need to go check on the cows, but please come visit me and the farm again soon!
206C – Chico the Horse
Hi! My Name Is Chico
I am an American Quarter Horse. We are called Quarter Horses because of how quickly we can run in a quarter mile. We are also very personable, intelligent, and calm, and we make great friends.
Horse Communication
Horses use facial expressions, body language, and vocal cues (sounds) to let you know how we are feeling. Research shows that we are incredibly sensitive to your emotions, expressions, and body language, too.
My Day on the Farm
I like to stay active on the farm. I spend most of my time walking and trotting in the pasture and farmyards. The more I work, the more I need to eat.
A Grassy Diet (With Occasional Treats!)
I eat almost 2% of my body weight every day. I weigh 1000 pounds, so that means I need 15–20 pounds of grass, hay, and grains, plus a lot of clean water. My favorite treats are apples and carrots.
Caring for Horses
To stay healthy I need nutritious food, a clean barn, and daily grooming. My hooves are cleaned 1–2 times per day, and I am brushed daily to keep my body, mane, and tail clean.
Keeping Me Healthy and Happy
My veterinarian visits the farm regularly to make sure I stay healthy. I get vaccinations, parasite checks, and dental care. My human family also makes sure I am protected from harsh weather by providing me access to shelter.
Wave Hello to Harley
My friend Harley works at the Temple Grandin Equine Center in this building. He gets to meet a lot of different people and helps them with their physical and emotional health. Wave hello if you see him in the arena!
Keep the Horse Discovery Going!
Explore the rest of this floor to discover more about different horse breeds and jobs for horses. You can also learn how humans help us horses recover from injuries through rehabilitation services. Have fun, friend!
