lowcountry dog blog

2009-08-24T15:51:00.003-04:00

Sometimes rescue and community groups plan a big event and get the info in too late for LCD to feature it in the appropriate print issue. I've recently been notified about two events very early in October, that sound like a lot of fun. Since the October/Nov issue will only be out a couple of days before these events happen, I wanted to go ahead and tell you guys about them now. Yes, the events are more than a month away, but I wanted to give you plenty of time to plan to attend!

1st Annual Fido's Frolic on Folly

Saturday October 3rd

Fido’s Frolic is a scenic stroll on a Saturday afternoon with your favorite canine(s) and a few hundred other like-minded animal lovers. Registration and activities start at 2:00 PM. The walk begins at 3:00 PM and covers a 2- mile round trip route along Folly Beach, beginning at the pier. Water stations for dogs and people will be located along the route.

Ask everyone you know to sponsor you in the walk by pledging a specific dollar amount as a donation to support the homeless animals at Pet Helpers. Collect all of your pledge payments in advance and bring your Pledge Sheet and Payment checks with you to the walk. If you are unable to join us on October 3rd, you still make a donation to the animals using

the registration form.

For Everyone’s safety:

Dogs must be leashed at all times!

Dogs must be current on all vaccinations

Dogs in heat are not allowed to participate

An adult must accompany children under 16

No bicycles, skateboards, or rollerblades allowed

No cats or other animals allowed

What Could I Win?

In addition to the satisfaction of raising money to help the many need animals at Pet Helpers and having fun, participants can also win great prizes.

Pledges of $25 or more will receive a surprise gift bag from Pet Helpers

Pledges of $50 or more will receive a Fido’s Frolic on Folly T-shirt and a surprise gift bag from Pet Helpers

The top three individual pledge raisers will win:

First: Admission for two to Holiday Inn Folly Beach’s New Year’s Eve bash and an overnight stay, Thursday, December 31, 2009 valued at $350.00

Second: A portrait painted of your dog by local artist Kevin Rockwell valued at $200.00

Third: A $150 gift Basket for your pet from All is Well located on James Island.

Top Team pledge raiser will win:

Each will receive a Limited Edition 2009 Fido’s Frolic on Folly Fleece Jacket.

Download the registration form HERE.

Download the pledge sheet HERE.

And Also on October 3rd: Dogtoberfest Pet Expo

10:00 AM

Dogtoberfest' Pet Expo

Kiawah Island Community Association

Saturday, October 3rd, 2009

10:00 am - 2:00 pm

2009-08-14T14:00:00.002-04:00

Charleston Animal Society Needs Items for Animal Enrichment Program:

The CAS is working with the ASPCA to implement a new enrichment program that will increase the live release rate of animals in the shelter. Studies have shown animals that remain in shelters for long periods of time begin to deteriorate socially, mentally, and behaviorally, often causing them to become less adoptable. Our staff has undergone specific training to keep these animals healthy and engaged through various techniques. While we have been provided with the training we need to help these animals, there are still items that we desperately need to assist the staff with the animal enrichment exercises. If you are interested in improving the lives and adoptability of shelter animals, we would love for you to consider donating the following items:

*Apple sauce
*Ice cube trays
*Plain yogurt
*Bouillon cubes or broth (chicken or beef)
*Peanut Butter
*Kongs (all sizes)
*Air Dog squeekers
*Nylabone toys
*Bar-B-Chew toys
*Dental Chews
*Double Action Chews
*Dogzilla Toys
*Ropes and Tugs
*Merrick Knuckle Bones (plain or basted)
*Plush Toys
*Gift Cards to Wal-mart, SuperPetz, PetsMart, and Target to purchase these items

Visit www.charlestonanimalsociety.org for more information about how to donate.

To learn more about animal enrichment, please visit http://www.aspcapro.org/saving-lives/enrichment-for-shelter-dogs/

On behalf of the homeless and neglected animals who cannot speak for themselves, thank you for caring. We are appreciative of your continued friendship and confidence in the Charleston Animal Society and our ability to provide the best care possible for our homeless animals.

2009-08-03T08:39:00.002-04:00

Gardening Hazards for Pets

Fall will be here before we know it. While you are preparing your outdoor areas for your family to enjoy this fall just make sure you take the steps to ensure that it is safe for your pets to enjoy as well.

“When planting your garden it is important to note that there are numerous house and garden plants which can be toxic to animals,” warns Dr. Murl Bailey, professor of toxicology at the Texas A&M University College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences. “Several that come to mind initially are brunfelsia, lilies, cycads, kolanchoe, and oleander.”

Brunfelsia, more commonly known as the yesterday, today & tomorrow plant, causes convulsive seizures in dogs that resemble strychnine poisoning.

“We haven't seen any problems in cats from brunfelsia, as of this date,” notes Bailey. “While this plant is mostly a house plant, it could be in sheltered gardens in the southern part of Texas.”

Cycads, low growing palm trees which are used both indoors and outdoors, are another type of plant that is toxic to dogs as they tend to chew on the roots. The cycad has a toxin in the root and stems that is toxic to the liver.

“When the liver is affected, the dog’s body stops producing the normal, endogenous clotting factors and the dogs start bleeding excessively--to the extent that they can bleed to death,” explains Bailey.

While brunfelsia and cycads may not be known to cause problems in cats, lilies are especially harmful to them. Once cats ingest lilies, they develop nausea and vomiting. Then they get depressed, and stop eating.

“Why cats like to eat them I don't know, probably boredom, but once they do these cats must be treated by a veterinarian, preferably within 24 hours and not later than 48 hours,” states Bailey. “We do not know which toxin(s) are present in the lilies, but they are very toxic to the kidneys.”

Kolanchoe is a type of house plant that is known to be toxic. This plant contains a chemical which is similar to the human heart medication, digoxin.

“The garden plant oleander also contains digoxin-like compounds. Both kolanchoe and oleander can be toxic to all animals, including dogs and cats, if ingested,” says Bailey.

While spring is a time to plant beautiful flowers in your yard, it also brings pesky insects out in numbers. Because of this, another potential hazard this time of year is pesticides.

“All pesticides can cause problems in dogs and cats if the chemicals are stored incorrectly and misused,” warns Bailey.

Bailey stresses that labels on all chemicals should be read very carefully and followed, especially when used around pets. He notes that animals do not have to eat the toxin; they can also become exposed through the skin and in the case of volatile agents, can be exposed just by breathing the contaminated air.

“If a pesticide is not specifically labeled to be used on dogs and/or cats, the pesticide can cause toxicities,” Bailey states. “Some insecticides are labeled specifically for dogs and not for cats so it is important to read the labels thoroughly.”

While there are more and more products out there that claim to be environmentally safe or “green,” Bailey is not entirely convinced of their worth.

“Many alternative and "so-called" environmentally safe compounds are usually not very effective in controlling fleas, flies and ticks. The best thing for an animal owner to do is follow the labeled instructions,” he adds.

Spring is a great time to enhance and enjoy the outdoors. Taking the time to make sure that everything you put in and on your yard is safe for your furry friends will ensure this time is special for the entire family.

ABOUT PET TALK...

Pet Talk is a service of the College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University. Stories can be viewed on the Web at http://tamunews.tamu.edu/.

Suggestions for future topics may be directed to editor@cvm.tamu.edu.

2009-07-20T12:19:00.004-04:00

inca the bull terrier loses her battle with a porcupine - via snopes.com

Which Wild Animals Attack our Pets the Most?

According to VPI pet insurance, the following are the 10 animals aside from dogs and cats that were most responsible for pet injury claims in 2008:

Top 10 Animals To Attack Pets

1. Snake

2. Coyote

3. Raccoon

4. Squirrel

5. Scorpion

6. Javelina

7. Porcupine

8. Ground Hog

9. Skunk

10. Rat

2009-07-16T11:05:00.000-04:00

Sleeping Disorders in Animals

Maybe you’ve seen the comical home video on ‘YouTube’ titled “sleepwalking fail”? It is a short clip of a sleeping dog that starts to “run” horizontally in his sleep, then suddenly jumps up and slams into a wall! Although the video is seriously funny, there is nothing funny about what might be wrong with this animal. This dog could be dreaming, although it unknown for certain if animals dream according to Dr. M.A. Crist, Clinical Assistant Professor at Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine. Most likely this animal is displaying signs of a sleep disorder.

Sleeping disorders are not healthy, and as with humans, we see disturbed sleep patterns as a sign of old age, disease or life-altering illness. The two sleeping disorders that are most dangerous to an animal’s health are narcolepsy and cataplexy. If your pet has one of these disorders and is left alone, or unattended near water, they could possibly drown.

“Narcolepsy is the occurrence of uncontrollable Rapid Eye Movement (REM) sleep phase characterized by the presence of rapid eye movements and fast phase activity,” said Crist “Cataplexy is the sudden development of rapid duration voluntary muscle weakness, flaccidity, or paralysis of all muscles except extraocular and respiratory muscles. These two sleep disorders are usually a congenital and inherited condition that can be brought on by excitement such as playing, eating, drinking, or greeting owners and can last seconds to minutes, many times a day, or infrequently.”

Warning signs of one or both of these disorders are the pet may suddenly collapse into lateral or sterna recumbancy with no movements. With narcolepsy the animal appears asleep, and with cataplexy the animal is alert but can’t follow motion with eye movements. The pet can be aroused with petting, external stimuli, and loud noises. These disorders are not curable.

Older cats may also experience behavior changes in sleep cycles or waking in the night, restlessness and pacing. This is either related to senility or a disease called Hyperthyroidism.

“Hyperthyroidism occurs when the thyroid gland produces an excess amount of thyroid hormone which can lead to cardiac disease and high blood pressure,” said Crist. “A specific thyroid blood test can be checked to verify this abnormality and treatment can be initiated. Melatonin, an internal hormone secreted by the pineal gland during darkness, can also be given as an oral supplement usually with minimal side effects as a potential treatment for sleep disorders.”

Of course, there are several things that pet owners can do for their pets before their sleeping disorders become too severe.

“If owners notice their pet having a change in their sleeping pattern they want to take them to their veterinarian for a complete physical examination and laboratory analysis,” said Crist. “Medical problems may contribute to these disturbances and some medicines may need to be prescribed by a veterinarian to help combat their sleep disturbance.”

“While melatonin has been useful for treating sleep disorders that arise from hypothyroidism, senility, or cognitive dysfunction,” said Crist, “it is not regulated by the FDA, so ask a veterinarian the correct dose for your pet. Acupuncture and herbal medications are other modalities that might be used to treat sleep disorders in pets.”

Placing your pet on certain diets can also aid in their sleeping troubles.

“Omega 3 fatty acids and diets that are enriched with antioxidants are good for dogs with cognitive dysfunction and sleep issues,” said Crist. “Therapeutic diets supplemented with antioxidants such as vitamin C, mixed tocopherols, beta-carotene, flavenoids, carotenoids, and omega-3 fatty acids had dogs show improvement on the performance of cognitive tasks than dogs on a non-supplemented diet.”

It will always be a true mystery whether or not pets dream.

“In mammals and birds, studies have shown that long episodes of nondreaming sleep referred to as “slow-wave” or SW sleep is followed by short episodes of dreaming sleep referred to as “rapid-eye-movement” or REM sleep,” said Crist. “If a disturbance in this pattern occurs then sleeping problems can begin. However, we will never really know if pets dream because we cannot talk to them. However, we do know that dogs have the REM sleep phase and this is the dream activity period in people. Dogs do have leg movements, facial twitching, vocalizations, and tail movements. Therefore, it might be likely they are having a dream.”

Crist mentioned that it is important to know some sleep disorders require a lengthy behavioral consultation and examination by a veterinarian. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor antidepressants should be prescribed for these dogs and cats who have diagnosed obsessive-compulsive behavior disorders that are disturbing their sleeping patterns. She also reminded that by always taking our pets to the veterinarian for their regular check-up, many potential problems can be caught before they seriously affect your pet’s health.

ABOUT PET TALK…

Pet Talk is a service of the College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University. Stories can be viewed on the Web at http://tamunews.tamu.edu.

Suggestions for future topics may be directed to editor@cvm.tamu.edu.

2009-07-16T09:11:00.004-04:00

Learn to Communicate with Your Dog

On Saturday, August 8th, from 9-1, animal communicator Barbara Rawson will be offering a Mini-Clinic at her home on Johns Island. Grounding methods, boundary setting, and telepathic skills will be taught and practiced. The clinic will be beneficial to those who would like to be more focused and centered, to those who may want to continue on and take the Level I Animal Communication Workshop, and to those who want to begin reconnecting to their true self.

The fee is $50. All materials, healthy snacks, iced tea and coffee are provided. Email Barbara at barbararawson@hotmail.com or call 843.364.2210 to register.

Please note: If you are interested in having a young persons' (17 and under) version of this, please let Barbara know and it will be done.

2009-07-13T21:32:00.005-04:00

LCD Loves

We love the clean and modern design of Larkin Floyd's Pet Portraits. Tres Chic! More info about Larkin and her commissioned pet portraits HERE.

2009-07-06T17:49:00.004-04:00

My Three Dogs Named Best Daycare and Best Groomer, Has 2nd Anniversary Celebration

Below are a mixture of candid party shots and photos from photographer Jon Shumpert during the My Three Dogs Dog Daycare, Grooming and Boutique 2nd Anniversary Celebration.

Other than celebrating their 2nd year, My Three Dogs also celebrated being named BEST DAYCARE in Charleston by the City Paper and BEST GROOMER by the Moultrie News!!!!

Congrats to owner Kris Verdi and her amazing staff!

2009-07-03T09:42:00.002-04:00

To protect your pet on the Fourth of July, take these precautions provided by the Humane Society of the United States:

Resist the urge to take your pet to fireworks displays.
Do not leave your pet in the car. With only hot air to breathe inside a car, your pet can suffer serious health effects—even death—in a few short minutes. Partially opened windows do not provide sufficient air, but they do provide an opportunity for your pet to be stolen.
Keep your pets indoors at home in a sheltered, quiet area. Some animals can become destructive when frightened, so be sure that you've removed any items that your pet could destroy or that would be harmful to your pet if chewed. Leave a television or radio playing at normal volume to keep him company while you're attending Fourth of July picnics, parades, and other celebrations.
If you know that your pet is seriously distressed by loud noises like thunder, consult with your veterinarian before July 4th for ways to help alleviate the fear and anxiety he or she will experience during fireworks displays.
Never leave pets outside unattended, even in a fenced yard or on a chain. In their fear, pets who normally wouldn't leave the yard may escape and become lost, or become entangled in their chain, risking injury or death.
Make sure your pets are wearing identification tags so that if they do become lost, they can be returned promptly. Animals found running at-large should be taken to the local animal shelter, where they will have the best chance of being reunited with their owners.

2009-06-18T13:38:00.002-04:00

Humane Society University to Offer College Degrees in Animal Protection Studies

(June 18, 2009) - Further advancing its leadership in human-animal studies, Humane Society University, an affiliate of The Humane Society of the United States, announced today that it has received a license as a higher education degree-granting institution by the District of Columbia Education Licensure Commission. The HSUS is the first animal welfare organization to receive such authority and distinction.

Humane Society University is the first institution in the nation to offer bachelor degree programs in animal studies and the first in the world to offer a bachelor’s degree in animal policy and advocacy. The degrees are designed to educate students to qualify them for employment with one of the more than 17,000 U.S. nonprofit organizations that seek to protect, provide services to or advocate for animals, and to advance scholarship in the field.

Undergraduate degrees and graduate certificates in animal studies, animal policy and advocacy, and humane leadership will begin in fall of 2009. Offering both online coursework and onsite classes at its Washington, D.C. campus, HSU promotes core competencies in a rigorous and relevant academic curriculum that encourages critical thinking and examination of practices and assumptions related to animals. HSU recruits leading scholars in the field to its faculty, and seeks to attract students who wish to be on the forefront of creating a more humane society by giving them the tools they need to succeed.

“Offering Bachelor of Science degrees and graduate certificates makes sense in today’s world of complex human-animal relationships,” says Robert Roop, Ph.D., president of Humane Society University. “The programs are designed for students who seek to advance work on behalf of animals by gaining advanced skills and knowledge. The interdisciplinary curriculum offered by HSU is unmatched by any other licensed scholastic body in the world.”

The faculty consists of experts in the field of human-animal studies, including 26 instructors who will teach courses. Twenty of the faculty members hold doctoral-level degrees in animal behavior, policy, psychology, sociology, literature, veterinary medicine, law and other fields.

General Admission Requirements for the Undergraduate Program:

• Applicants must have completed at least 60 college credits, satisfying all general education requirements prior to admittance to HSU.

• The undergraduate curriculum provides the final two years of undergraduate study, enabling students to earn up to an additional 60 credits through completion of an accelerated 8-week semester of either online, onsite, or hybrid classes.

• Candidates may take individual courses but must complete their degree requirements within 5 years of matriculation, and obtain a minimum of 120 credits in order to graduate.

• Students who have completed bachelor or graduate degrees at other institutions are eligible to enroll in graduate certificate programs in animal studies, animal policy and advocacy, and humane leadership.

About The Humane Society of the United States:

Founded in 1954, The Humane Society of the United States is the nation’s largest animal protection organization — backed by 11 million Americans, or one of every 28. For more than a half-century, The HSUS has been fighting for the protection of all animals through advocacy, education, and hands-on programs.

About Humane Society University:

HSU offers 33 courses which lead to an undergraduate degree or graduate certificate, along with a catalog of 45 additional non-credit opportunities to earn a professional certificate, complete a self-paced course, or attend one of the many onsite workshops in animal care, shelter management, and advocacy throughout the United States. To learn more about these exciting and innovative programs and to complete an application for admissions visit http://www.humanesocietyuniversity.org, or e-mail admissions@humanesocietyuniversity.org.

Media Contact

Rachel Querry, 301-258-8255, rquerry@humanesociety.org

2009-06-15T18:35:00.006-04:00

Outer Rings of Hurricane Hugo Makes Landfall in Charleston. 2:44pm EST 9/21/89

LCD Hurricane Preparedness Guide for Pet Owners

IN PREPARATION

Make sure that your pets are current on their vaccinations. Pet friendly shelters require proof of vaccines.

Have a current photograph.

Keep a collar with identification on your pet and have a leash on hand to control your pet.

Have a properly-sized pet carrier for each animal. Pet friendly shelters require them.

Practice putting it together quickly.

Plan your evacuation strategy and don't forget your pet!

Contact hotels and motels outside your immediate area to check policies on accepting pets. Ask about any restrictions on number, size, and species. Ask if "no pet" policies would be waived in an emergency.

Make a list of animal-friendly places and keep it handy.

Call ahead for a reservation as soon as you think you might have to leave your home.

Check with friends, relatives, or others outside your immediate area to see if they would shelter you and your animals or just your animals, if necessary.

Make a list of boarding facilities and veterinary offices that might be able to shelter animals in emergencies; include 24-hour telephone numbers.

Ask your local animal shelter if it provides foster care or shelter for pets in an emergency. This should be your last resort, as shelters have limited resources and are likely to be stretched to their limits during an emergency.

DURING THE DISASTER

If you are able, leave early. Don't wait for a mandatory evacuation order. An unnecessary trip is far better than waiting too long to leave safely with your pets. If you wait to be evacuated by emergency officials, you may be told to leave your pets behind.

Animals brought to a pet shelter are required to have:

proper identification collar and rabies tagproper identification on all belongings

a carrier or cage

a leash

a muzzle for dog aggressive dogs

an ample supply of food, water (1 gallon for every 10lbs.) food bowls, any medications

specific care instructions and news papers or trash bags for clean-up

Bring pets indoors well in advance of a storm - reassure them and remain calm.

Pet shelters will be filled on first come, first served basis.

Call ahead and determine availability.

A sailboat pushed onshore by Hurricane Hugo - Lockwood Drive, Downtown Charleston

AFTER THE DISASTER

Walk pets on a leash until they become re-oriented to their home - often familiar scents and landmarks may be altered and pets could easily be confused and become lost.

Also, downed power lines, reptiles brought in with high water and debris can all pose a threat for animals after a disaster.

If pets cannot be found after a disaster, contact the local animal control office to find out where lost animals can be recovered.

Bring along a picture of your pet if possible. After a disaster animals can become aggressive or defensive - monitor their behavior.

SHELTER AND HOTEL INFO:

The North Charleston Coliseum will provide shelter only for those people who can not otherwise evacuate with their pets. Entry is limited to one person per pet.

The following hotel chains are pet friendly and there are several just a few hours away from Charleston that would serve as a refuge from the storm.

Best Western: 800-528-1234

Clarion: 800-252-7466

Comfort Inn: 800-228-5150

Days Inn: 800-329-7466

Econo Lodge: 800-553-2666

Holiday Inn: 800-465-4329

Quality Inn: 800-228-5151

Ramada Inn: 800-228-2828

Residence Inn: 800-331-3131

Also check out www.vrbo.com, a search engine for vacation and short term rentals across the US. You can search specifically for pet friendly homes, townhouses and villas to rent.

2009-06-10T09:27:00.003-04:00

Cure Those Post Spoleto Blues at My Three Dogs!

Feeling a bit down in the dumps now that all the Spoleto festivities are over? Never fear, there's fun to be had at My Three Dogs this coming Sunday, June 14th from 12-4pm at their 2nd Anniversary Celebration!

Bring your dog for great food, music, contests, give-a-ways, local rescue groups and professional photography sessions.

1518 Hwy 17 North, Mt Pleasant 843-884-8818 or www.mythreedogs.com for more info.

2009-06-10T08:57:00.004-04:00

Worthy Creatures Relocates to the Northwest, has HUGE Relocation Sale

The most loved Worthy Creatures store in Mt. Pleasant will be closing and moving to owner Cheri Wildes' home town of Snohomish, WA. The last day of store business will be Sunday, June 14th.

Since the store's lease is ending and Cheri decided not to relocate to Charleston, even on a part time basis, it makes the most sense to move the store home. The decision to relocate the store was a difficult one, and the community will sorely miss the lovely boutique that served so many. But I'm excited for all the opportunities that lay ahead for her in WA and that she plans on keeping her online store open to us lowcountry folk!

Cheri is also pleased to announce the following “Moving Sale” Specials will be available from June 4th thru 14th:

15% Off Canned, Dry & Freeze Dried Dog & Cat Food

15% Off Select Dog & Cat Treats

30% Off All Varieties of Harrison’s Bird Food

25% Off All Non-Consignment Pet Beds & Mats

20% Off All Ceramic Pet Bowls & Treat Jars

Additional 10% off All Pet Clothing, Carriers, Strollers & Gift Items Already Marked Down

Sale pricing is good while supplies last. All other merchandise will continue to be sold at current pricing.

Stop by to say farewell and take advantage of some great deals!

Worthy Creatures is located in Seaside Farms in Mt. Pleasant.

2009-06-10T08:47:00.004-04:00

photo via doggedpursuit.net

Join the pawPawty

My name is Dusty.

I'm a six-year-old Shetland Sheepdog and the star of "Dogged Pursuit: My Year of Competing Dusty, the World's Least Likely Agility Dog", coming out this week from Hudson Street Press. (My human, Robert Rodi, wrote the actual book -- but his name's not in the title, and it's my picture on the cover, so I think I'm the star.)

I thought your people-audience might be interested in the latest Twitter phenomenon: the global "paw pawty." Once a month, thousands of animal enthusiasts Tweet in the voice of their pets -- cats, dogs, guinea pigs, horses, rabbits and more -- to raise money for worthy animal causes, like shelters and rescue organizations.

The next pawPawty is this weekend -- beginning at 2 p.m. EDT on Saturday, June 13, and running for 24 solid hours. There are interactive games, quizzes -- even music, as the "anipals" have chosen an 80s theme, and many are dressing up their avatars accordingly. (The event's main organizer is @FrugalDougal, a feisty terrier from the English countryside who keeps a clever blog.)

Best of all, five lucky winners will receive the very first signed and paw-tographed copies of Dogged Pursuit.

If you'd like to learn more, log into Twitter and search for #pawpawty to see what the anipals are doing to get ready for this weekend.

Your friend,

Dusty

www.doggedpursuit.net

www.twitter.com/DoggedPursuit

2009-06-05T09:06:00.003-04:00

New Doggy Daycare Opens on James Island

The Wag Factory, located at 832 Folly Road on James Island will have a Grand Opening Celebration this Saturday June 6, 2009 from 11am to 3pm. There will be food, treats, facility tours, games and free daycare & boarding give-aways.

I'm pretty excited about this new company, not only because it fills a need for those residents on James Island, Downtown and in West Ashley for quality daycare and boarding, but also because owner Ryan Reed is offering quite a few unique services for area dog owners! He has really thought outside of the box to offer an unparalleled level of service Here's a run down of some of the neat things The Wag Factory offers.

#1 EXPERTS The trained staff is knowledgeable in canine first aid, CPR, skin care, nutrition, and animal behavior. You can truly feel you are leaving your dog with complete experts.

#2 FREE PHONE CALL OR EMAIL. No need to call and check in on your dog during their visit, the Wag Factory will do it for you! That’s right, every few days you’ll get a complimentary call or email (your choice) letting you know just how much fun your dog is having. And you can check out your dogs through the Wag Factory Web Cams too!

#3 FREE COFFEE. Because who has the time to drop off their dog AND stop by the coffee shop? Bring in your mug and fill ‘er up!

#4 FREE WI-FI. You supply the laptop, Wag Factory supplies the internet.

#5 FREE GOING HOME BATH. Most places charge but not at the Wag Factory. Nobody likes picking up a stinky dog after getting home from a long vacation or business trip. That’s why the Wag Factory makes sure if you’ve been gone for more than 5 days, your “best friend” is clean and odor free.

So this Saturday go on by and check out this state-of-the-art facility and register to win your dog a "staycation" at the Wag Factory!

For more information, please visit the Wag Factory online at www.WagFactory.com

Also, please feel free to contact owner Ryan Reed directly at 843-743-3366 or info@wagfactory.com

2009-06-02T20:13:00.003-04:00

Model Contest 2009 - Lucy is our Winner!

This year's Pet Fest and LCD Model Contest was such an amazing success. More than 3,000 people (and their dogs) had a fantastic time enjoying dock dogs, canine good citizen tests, rescue and vendor tents, Frisbee demonstrations and FOOD!

LCD was a marquee participant at the event for the 4th straight year, hosting our annual ( and insanely popular) model contest. We've had a great turn out in 06, 07 and in 08 but 2009 was by far the fiercest competition we've seen. 600 dogs posed for our cameras, vying for the prize of top dog. In the past we've had a purebred a Vizsla, a rescued Border Collie and a show Papillion win the title, but this year it was Lucy, a mixed breed of unknown heritage, who won our hearts with her unusual good looks.

Adopted from the Charleston Animal Society (formerly the JASPCA), Lucy had a rough start. She had everything from mange to kennel cough and almost didn't make it. But her sweet spirit carried her through the difficulties and she is now living a happy and healthy life with her owner, Jennifer Montini.

I wish I could have fit more of her photos in the June/July issue. It's not quite a good as seeing her in print, but I wanted to share them with you here on the dog blog. Enjoy looking at this sweet, scruffy and adorable dog having a ball out at the (always dog friendly) Magnolia Plantation.

All photos are copyright Lowcountry Focus Photography and can not be reproduced or re-posted online without consent of the photographer and LCD.

2009-06-02T09:30:00.007-04:00

Local photojournalist Paul Zoeller did such an excellent job on the Veterinary ER article in this issue of LCD. If you haven't read the article yet, do so HERE. We had a difficult time choosing photographs to include with Paul's story. Here's a few more that we thought were fantastic, but just couldn't fit in.

Thanks again to Paul and the staff of the North Charleston Emergency Veterinary Clinic.

All photos copyright Paul Zoeller. Photos can not be reproduced without consent of LCD and the photographer.

Stella, a Labrador mix, has her tail shaved before getting stitches after getting the tip caught in a recliner.

Rachael Baczewski, on left, vet technician, and Annie Hall, student observer, fit a collar on Stella, a lab mix.

Vet technician Felicia King inserts an IV into the leg of Holly Bell, a 15-year old Dachshund. Holly Bell was hit by a car.

Dr. Jeremy Libby examines the foot of Pinky, a Chihuahua, after he was brought in with a painful swollen paw.

The staff work tirelessly through the night.

Vet Technician Catherine Goode runs a scanner over a stray cat looking for a pet locator in hopes of finding its owners.

Vet Technician Catherine Goode checks on a patient.

Bailee, a Bichon Frise, is walked around with the aid of an extra leash as he recovers from back surgery.

2009-06-01T08:54:00.007-04:00

Native Dog - A Continuation of the Carolina Dog Article in the June/July Issue

I'm so glad that LCD had the opportunity to interview the discoverer of the Carolina Dog, Dr. I Lehr Brisbin, after his lecture to the Charleston Audubon Society. If you haven't read the article yet, you can read it online HERE.

We'd last spoke with the Dr. about these native dogs back in 2005 and the dogs have come a long way in "dog world" since then. Kennel clubs are taking note of this incredible dog, but with that attention has come controversy. Some lovers of the breed call for a complete immersion into mainstream dog fancy. This means registration with the AKC and the ability to show the dogs in an AKC registered show. But with registration comes the inability to breed captured wild dogs and according to Dr. Brisbin, the characteristics that make the Carolina Dog a Carolina Dog might be domesticated out of the dog.

Top to bottom: Trink, Lady Jane & Hunter ( who we incorrectly named Tucker in the print edition) are all three full blood Carolina Dogs. Photos by Juanita Oser.

I'm curious to hear what LCD readers think about this breed and it's future. Do you feel that Brisbin, who currently owns the studbook, should continue to keep the line open? Should he continue to breed his dogs with captured wild dogs in order to keep certain characteristics strong ( snout pit digging, regurgitation, along with physical characteristics, etc.) or should he register the dogs and give them credibility with the AKC? Let us know by leaving comments here on the blog.

Also interesting to hear about hybridization in our interview with Dr. Brisbin. As people encroach on the Carolina Dog territory it makes sense that the wild dogs would start breeding with our already domesticated dogs. I'm sure the local shelters are filled with Carolina Dog "hybrids." Take a look at local photographer Robbie Silver's dog, Gingy. Robbie (and Robbie's vet) believes Gingy is a Carolina Dog hybrid.

photos courtesy of Robbie Silver, www.robbiesilver.com

And last but not least, what should you do if you think you have a Carolina Dog, but you aren't sure? The Carolina Dog Association has some questions for you.

1. Is the dog's origin documented as being within the southeastern US , east of the Mississippi River and South of the Ohio and James Rivers?

2. Is the dog documented as having come from an isolated or rural area with few human inhabitants?

3. Does the dog fit the general description as set forth by the American Rare Breed Assoc. standard for the breed?

4. Does the dog exhibit primitive behavior traits, including, but not limited to: pack hierarchy with other dogs, strong prey drive, snout pit digging from Sept. to Feb., regurgitation for pups, communal pup rearing, digging of nesting dens, feces covering etc. At least one of these traits should be present.

If you answered YES to these questions, email photos and description of the dog to the Carolina Dog Association President Jane Gunnell at jane@gforcecable.com, or mail to Jane Gunnell, 262 Eastgate Drive, #342, Aiken, SC 29803. You can also speak with local Carolina Dog enthusiast Charles Ginetto at CGinettoCPA@aol.com.

2009-05-18T14:04:00.005-04:00

Winners Announced in The Humane Society of the United States’ Second Annual Dogs of Valor Awards

WASHINGTON (May 18, 2009) – The Humane Society of the United States is pleased to announce the winners of the 2009 Dogs of Valor Awards, sponsored by PetPlan Pet Insurance. The awards celebrate the human-animal bond by honoring dogs who have exhibited an extraordinary sense of courage or resolve by heroically helping a person in need.

The Valor Dog of the Year, the highest honor, and the three Runners Up were selected by a panel of celebrity judges comprised of big-screen Dog of Valor Benji, “America's Favorite Animal Artist” Ron Burns, professional race car champion Randy Pobst and television’s courtroom animal advocate, Judge David Young. The People’s Hero was chosen by the public during a week of online voting.

Valor Dog of the Year

· Baby C. (Albuquerque, N.M.) – After their SUV plummeted 20 feet off a mountain road and wedged upside down between two trees, Baby nestled close to her owner, Elwood Cardon, who was injured and trapped by the steering column. The Great Dane also crawled out of a shattered window several times to seek help. After 10 hours, Baby finally got the attention of one of the area’s few residents and led her to the wreckage.

Runners Up

· Boo (renamed “Hero”)(Jim Thorpe, Penn.) – While walking Boo in an isolated area, the German Shepherd mix’s owner, Dennis Redline, slipped on ice, hit his head, and lost consciousness. Immediately, Boo began running through the area, barking. Neighbors called police, and when they arrived several hours later, Boo led them to Dennis who was still unconscious. He remained in a coma for 6 days.

· Charley (Loganville, Ga.) – Charley barked and paced until he got the attention of his owner, Frances Gippert. Finally giving in to his persistence, she took the West Highland terrier outside, and they started to walk along their normal path. It was then that Charley pulled Frances the opposite way, leading her down the street to a semi-conscious man who was lying next to a house in the shrubs. Frances called for help and discovered the man had a brain hemorrhage, a collapsed lung and a cracked rib.

· Jake (Omaha, Neb.) – When Jake’s owner, Tony Bailey, was swept away by strong currents in the Platte River, he called for help as he gasped for air. Although his cries were muffled to his family on the shore, the Labrador retriever recognized the boy’s distress, leapt into the river, and swam to Tony. Tony wrapped his arms around Jake’s neck who swam the boy back upstream to safety.

People’s Hero

· D-boy (Oklahoma City, Okla.) – After an armed man burst through their home’s front door and yelled for D-boy’s owner, Roberta Trawick, and her family to get on the ground, the pit bull entered from another room and charged towards the assailant. Before reaching him, the man shot D-boy in the head. D-boy continued, but the man shot him twice more. The man then fled the home. The family called 911, and D-boy was treated at a local emergency veterinary center.

All 5 winners will receive an original sterling silver dog tag by Bella Tocca Tags. In addition, Baby’s family will receive a signed and framed limited edition giclée, “Sirius”, by Ron Burns and a natural handmade pet bed by designers Ted and Dayna; D-boy’s family will receive an Oreck XL Silver Series Upright vacuum cleaner and bags; and the families of the Runners Up will receive a signed “Sirius” limited edition giclée.

The HSUS would like to thank this year’s prize providers Ron Burns, Oreck, Ted and Dayna and Bella Tocca Tags.

Media Contact: Andrew Sovonick, 301-721-6463, asovonick@humanesociety.org

Follow The HSUS on Twitter.

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The Humane Society of the United States is the nation’s largest animal protection organization – backed by 11 million Americans, or one of every 28. For more than a half-century, The HSUS has been fighting for the protection of all animals through advocacy, education, and hands-on programs. Celebrating animals and confronting cruelty -- On the web at humanesociety.org .

2009-05-13T12:20:00.002-04:00

ASPCA^® Offers Tips to Help Pets Stay Cool

During Hot Summer Months

As the summer sun begins to heat things up, the ASPCA^® (The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals^®) reminds pet parents how to keep their furry friends cool, safe and happy.

“Summertime is a wonderful time for family and friends to get together and enjoy themselves, often with a beloved pet by their side,” says Dr. Steven Hansen, Senior Vice President of Animal Health Services for the ASPCA.“However, it’s important to consider the hidden, and sometimes, not-so-hidden dangers, that can harm our furry companions.”

Here are just a few ways animal lovers can keep their pets safe this summer:

Make Sure the Food is Friendly. Summertime is the perfect time for a backyard barbeque or party, but remember that the food and drink you serve your guests may be poisonous to pets. “Keep alcoholic beverages away from pets, as they can cause intoxication, depression and comas,,” says Dr. Hansen. “Similarly, remember that the snacks you serve your human friends should not be a treat for your pet; any change of diet, even for one meal, may give your dog or cat severe digestive ailments. Avoid raisins, grapes, onions, chocolate and products with xylitol as a sweetner”

Pets Have it Made in the Shade. Pets can get dehydrated quickly, so give your pets plenty of water when it’s hot outdoors. Also, make sure your pet has a shady place to get out of the sun, and keep them indoors when it’s extremely hot. “Never leave your animals alone in a parked vehicle,” says Dr. Louise Murray, Director of Medicine at the ASPCA’s Bergh Memorial Animal Hospital. “On a hot day, even with the windows open, a parked automobile can become a furnace in no time, and heat stroke can develop, which is often fatal.”

A Pest-Free Pet is a Happy Pet. Commonly-used flea and tick products, rodenticides (mouse and rat baits), and lawn and garden insecticides can be harmful to cats and dogs if ingested, so keep them out of reach. While there are flea products that can be used safely on dogs and cats, products labeled as “dog only” containing permethrin can be deadly to cats.. Be sure to read directions on these products carefully.

Water safety is Pet-Friendly. Do not leave pets unsupervised around a pool—not all dogs are good swimmers. Introduce your pets to water gradually and make sure pets wear flotation devices while on boats. Try not to let your dog drink pool water, which contains chlorine and other chemicals that could cause stomach upset.

Look Out for “High Rise Syndrome.” “During warmer months, The ASPCA sees an increase in injured animals as a result of ‘High-Rise Syndrome,’ which occurs when pets fall out of windows or doors and are seriously or fatally injured,” says Dr. Murray. “Pet owners need to know that this is completely preventable if they take simple precautions.” Keep all unscreened windows or doors in your home closed and make sure adjustable screens are tightly secured.

Be Aware of Heated Situations. When taking your dog outdoors or in the company of other animals, always keep a watchful eye on those around you. Summer is a wonderful time to engage in outdoor activities with your pet, but with more people and their dogs enjoying the warmer weather, tempers may flare over territory, so it’s equally important to make sure your dog is safe and secure around strangers and other animals.

· Fireworks Aren’t Very Petriotic. Never use fireworks around pets. Says Dr. Hansen, “While exposure to lit fireworks can potentially result in severe burns or trauma to curious pets, even unused fireworks can be hazardous. Many types of fireworks contain potentially toxic substances such as potassium nitrate, copper, chlorates, arsenic and other heavy metals.”

Keep citronella candles, insect coils and oil products out of the reach of pets as well. Ingestions can produce stomach irritation and possibly even central nervous system depression, and if inhaled, the oils could potentially cause aspiration pneumonia.

If your dog or cat accidentally ingests any potentially harmful products and you need emergency advice, please consult the ASPCA’s Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435 (a fee applies) or www.aspca.org/apcc, or take your pet to a veterinarian immediately. For more information on having a fun, safe summer with your pet, please visit www.aspca.org.

About the ASPCA^®

Founded in 1866, the ASPCA^® (The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals^®) was the first humane organization established in the Americas, and today has more than one million supporters in North America. A 501 [c] [3] not-for-profit corporation, the ASPCA’s mission is to provide effective means for the prevention of cruelty to animals throughout the United States. The ASPCA provides local and national leadership in animal-assisted therapy, animal behavior, animal poison control, anti-cruelty, humane education, legislative services, and shelter outreach. The New York City headquarters houses a full-service, accredited, animal hospital, adoption center, and mobile clinic outreach program. The Humane Law Enforcement department enforces New York’s animal cruelty laws and is featured on the reality television series “Animal Precinct” on Animal Planet. For more information, please visit www.aspca.org.

2009-04-22T18:59:00.002-04:00

Happy Earth Day Dog Lovers! LCD did a special posting today on planet friendly products for the pooch. In case you missed them here's a recap. True Blue grooming products are natural, detergent free & bio-degradable. http://twitpic.com/3rn8k Get it here: http://is.gd/tSjo The super strong Hurley dog toy is made from 100% recycled material. http://twitpic.com/3roye Get locally @ Palmetto Paws: http://is.gd/tSIL Ecollargy collars R made from recycled billboards. No 2 are alike. http://twitpic.com/3rzof Available @ Dolittle's http://www.dolittles.com/ NuHemp holistic all natural dog treats R packaged in 100% recycled packaging. http://twitpic.com/3s50n Get them @ Lucia's: http://is.gd/tVvU Eliminate pet odors w/ FreshWave biodegradable, non-toxic odor remover http://twitpic.com/3s6c9. Get it @ Hairy Winston: http://is.gd/tVGj

2009-04-18T09:36:00.001-04:00

Canine gum disease linked to heart problems
By: Rachael Whitcomb

Gum disease, which can occur in up to 75 percent of dogs by middle age, has been linked in a new study to the occurrence of canine heart disease.
The study, conducted by Dr. Larry Glickman at Purdue, examined the records of nearly 60,000 dogs with some stage of periodontal disease and about 60,000 without, and revealed a correlation between gum and heart maladies.

"Our data show a clear statistical link between gum disease and heart disease in dogs," says Glickman.

Each dog was followed on average for 2.5 years, and some as long as five, Glickman says. Of the dogs that had no signs of periodontal disease at the onset of the study, about 0.43 percent were diagnosed with congestive heart failure by the end of the study. On the other hand, 0.49 percent of the Stage 1 periodontal disease subjects, 1.09 percent of the Stage 2 subjects and 1.90 percent of the Stage 3 subjects were diagnosed with congestive heart failure.

The correlation was even stronger when it came to endocarditis, or inflammation of the heart valves, Glickman says. In the dogs with no periodontal disease, about 0.01 percent were diagnosed with endocarditis, compared to 0.15 percent of the Stage 3 periodontal disease dogs.

"For many candidates for heart disease, you're not talking about a single cause," says Glickman. "But it clearly speaks to more emphasis on dental care."

Glickman's full study was published in the February issue of the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association. He was assisted in his research by George Moore, a veterinarian at Purdue University's Small Animal Hospital, Gary Goldstein, a veterinary dentist at the School of Veterinary Medicine at the University of Minnesota at St. Paul, Minn., and Elizabeth Lund at the Banfield Pet Hospital in Portland, Ore.

Moving forward, Glickman says he would like to study exactly how gum and heart diseases are related in hopes that his research could help pet owners understand the risks and get pet-food companies to develop more foods that could prevent gum disease.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Rachael Whitcomb
Associate Editor
rwhitcomb@advanstar.com
Rachael Whitcomb joined the DVM Newsmagazine staff in May 2008 as associate editor. Prior to joining DVM, she worked as an associate editor at an environmental trade publication and in newspapers. Her experience includes reporting on government, education, crime and feature news, as well as graphic design and Web site management.
Since joining DVM Newsmagazine, Rachael has taken on the news coverage in the western and southern states, including: Washington, Idaho, Nevada, Arizona, Louisiana, Georgia, Montana, Wyoming, Utah, New Mexico, Mississippi, South Carolina, Oregon, California, Colorado, Texas, Alabama and Florida. She also maintains the DVM Web site, www.dvm360.com, and handles new product listings.
Rachael has a bachelors degree in journalism from Point Park University in Pittsburgh. She resides in a suburb of Cleveland with her fiance, Doug. They'll be married in July 2009. They also live with Rachael's dog, Emma; Doug's dog, Roxi; and Rachael's two cats, Fiona and Zoe.

2009-04-16T08:21:00.001-04:00

Fly the Pooch Friendly Skies

Pet Airways, (www.petairways.com) today announced that it will launch the first pet-only airline specifically designed for the safe and comfortable transportation of pets, with the first pet flights scheduled for July 14, . On Pet Airways, all pets travel in the main cabin not in the cargo hold.

Serving five cities to start - New York, Washington D.C., Chicago, Denver and Los Angeles - Pet Airways plans to expand nationwide with easily accessible pet check-in lounges to serve its “pawsengers” in major metropolitan areas.

A proprietary web-enabled reservation system will allow customers to book pet travel on the web. Owners will be able to track their pet’s travel progress online at http://www.petairways.com.

According to Dan Wiesel, president/CEO of Pet Airways: “Currently, most pets traveling by air are transported in the cargo hold and are handled as baggage. The experience is frightening to the pets, and can cause severe emotional and physical harm, even death. This is not what most pet owners want to subject their pets to, but they have had no other choice, until now.”

The greatest issue facing pet parents when they want to transport their pets, aside from the dilemma and trauma of putting their loved ones in cargo holds, is the inability to know who, if anyone, is taking care of their pet and where or how their pet is being treated. It is a very stressful experience.

Pet Airways has solved this problem completely.

Pet Airways ensures pets are in the good hands of people who love and know how to take care of pets. From the moment a pet is dropped off at a Pet Lounge, the pet is always under the care of trained Pet Attendants. Monitored by Pet Attendants, pets will fly in planes that are fully-lit, climate-controlled and have the proper level of fresh air circulation that pets require.

Pawsengers will be boarded and de-boarded from planes as quickly as possible, never left in the cold or heat, and depending on transit time, will be offered toilet facilities, food and water as necessary during stops. Pet Parents will be assured of sensitive, careful handling and the peace of mind that their pets are well looked after by people who care as much about their pets as they do.

The Pet Airways goal is to make the pet travel experience more comfortable and enjoyable for both pawsengers and their human families.

2009-04-15T08:35:00.001-04:00

This Weekend's Charleston Dog Events

Wild Heir Lab Rescue Meet&Greet
CAS Rabies & MicroChip Clinic
LLR Meet & Greet
LCGRR 2-day Event @ BooneHall
Noble Ones Meet & Greet
Wild Heir Lab Meet & Greet
Yappy Hour at Fuel(on Monday)

More info: http://is.gd/hoo

2009-04-13T09:03:00.001-04:00

LOWCOUNTRY DOGS COMPETE TO BE CHARLESTON’S BEST IN SHOW
SCBT PRESENTS 6TH ANNUAL CHARLESTON DOG SHOW

CHARLESTON, SC—The Charleston Dog Show—a friendly canine competition for Lowcountry dogs and their families—presented by South Carolina Bank and Trust (SCBT), celebrates its sixth year as Charleston’s official dog show on Saturday, May 2, 2009 in Marion Square.

Welcoming dogs of all breeds and pedigrees, The Charleston Dog Show promises all of the fun and none of the fuss of a traditional dog show. Founded by Middleton Place Hounds—in partnership with Lowcountry Lab Rescue, Low Country Golden Retriever Rescue Resource and now Greyhound Pets of America/Charleston—dogs of all shapes, sizes, talents and tails are invited to show off style, form, personality and showmanship in 15 different classes. Spectators’ favorites include the Sporting Dog, Toy Dog, Heinz 57, Children’s Handling, Puppy, Senior, Costume and Trick classes. Top performers in each class will be awarded trophies and ribbons followed by the acclaimed Alpha Dog Omega Cat “Best In Show” award presented at the end of the day.

Held in conjunction with The Charleston Farmers Market at Marion Square, Charleston Dog Show highlights also include a ceremonial opening with the Blessing of the Dogs, Dog Rescue Village, Dog Vendors, Microchipping, Canine Good Citizen (CGC) testing, Kids’ Korner, Dog Photo Booth, Silent Auction (with pet artwork), Agility Trials and Obedience Demonstrations. At midday, the South Carolina Bank and Trust (SCBT) Dog Patron of the Year Award will be presented; new this year is the invitation to the general public to submit nominations for this award.

Entry fees are $10.00 per dog per class and participants can enter up to 10 minutes prior to each class. Registration begins at 8am, and the show begins at 8:30am. CGC testing will be available for $20 per dog from 9am-12pm and Agility Trials and Obedience Demonstrations will be available from 12:30pm-3pm. Charleston Dog Show judges will consist of regional dog experts and enthusiasts.

Presented by South Carolina Bank and Trust (SCBT), Charleston Dog Show proceeds support Lowcountry Lab Rescue, Low Country Golden Retriever Rescue Resource, Greyhound Pets of America-Charleston and Middleton Place Hounds. For more information, visit charlestondogshow.com.

Charleston Dog Show Overview

Date: Saturday, May 2nd, 2009
Time: 8:30am – 3pm (Registration begins at 8am)
Venue: Marion Square, Downtown Charleston
Information: charlestondogshow.com; Diane Williams, 849-8096; diane@charlestondogshow.com
General Admission: Free
Rain Date: Event to be held rain or shine

Entry fees: $10 per dog per class
$20 per dog for Canine Good Citizen (CGC) Testing
$30 per dog for Microchipping

SCHEDULE
Classes are expected to take 20 minutes each but may vary depending on class size.
RING 1 South Carolina Bank and Trust (SCBT) Ring
8:30 am: Blessing of the Dogs
1) Herding Dogs
2) Sporting Dogs
3) Puppies (4 months - 1 year)
4) Veterans/Seniors (7 years & up)
5) Terriers
6) Children 3-6 (Handling Class) Parents are required to accompany 3-6 year olds.
7) Children 7-11 (Handling Class)
8) Dog Tricks Talent Class
9) Costume Class: Celebrity judges will determine best dog costume or the best theme costumes for dog and owner/ handler.
10) The G.L. Buist Rivers, Jr. Memorial Hound Class
11) Working Dogs
12) The Heinz 57 (Mutts)
13) Non-Sporting Dogs
14) Toy Dogs
15) Best In Show: Individual winners from classes 1-14 will compete for the Best In Show award.

RING 2 CGC Testing, Agility Trials & Obedience Demos
9:00am-12pm Canine Good Citizen Testing
12:30pm-3pm Agility Trials & Obedience Demonstrations

2009-04-09T16:08:00.000-04:00

The Effects of Smoking on Your Pet

According to the American Cancer Society, second-hand smoke, also known as environmental tobacco smoke (ETS), is responsible for an estimated thirty-five thousand deaths from heart disease in non-smokers who live with smokers.

It is widely known that cigarette smoke could lead to the development of fatal cancers in both smokers and non-smokers. So what about our pets? Could your second-hand smoke be killing your four-legged friend?

“There is very little known about the effects of ETS on animals,” notes Dr. Heather Wilson, an oncology specialist at the Texas A&M University College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences.

While little may be known about the direct effects second-hand smoke has on pets, there have been several instances where it has been shown to increase the risk of certain cancers in animals.

“We do know that ETS increases a cat’s risk of Squamous cell carcinoma, a type of tumor that occurs commonly in the mouth,” says Dr. Wilson. “Laboratory studies using dogs trained to smoke cigarettes have shown that they develop typical lung pathology similar to those in humans, specifically bronchopneumonia, emphysema, fibrosis of the lungs and tumors of the lungs and bronchi.”

Even though these studies are old and certainly not condoned by Texas A&M University, these and similar studies seem to show that ETS is harmful to animals. Again, it is important to note that there exists no compelling evidence to suggest that second-hand smoke will inevitably cause cancer.

“There are potential links to other tumors in dogs and cats, but no hard evidence to support it as a problem,” comments Dr. Wilson. “It is likely one of the many factors that cause cancer, rather than producing a simple cause and effect relationship.”

As a veterinary oncology specialist, Dr. Wilson sees numerous patients every day and investigates cancers regularly. When asked if the owner’s smoking habits had any direct affect on their pets, she found that there existed no conclusive relationship between the two. However, that does not mean that smoking around pets should continue without concern.

“We almost never see anything as a direct result of second-hand smoke,” emphasizes Dr. Wilson. “Still, there are cats with asthma that cannot tolerate being around smoke, especially when smoking increases the frequency of asthma attacks. There are also other primary lung diseases that are made worse by cigarette smoking, but there are no tumors that we can specifically say are a direct result of ETS exposure.”

Knowing that ETS increases the risk of certain cancers in our furry friends, it is important to understand which animals are more susceptible to cancers.

“Siamese cats are at a greater risk of developing tumors,” says Dr. Wilson. “In dogs, the most commonly affected breeds include golden retrievers, German shepherds, rottweilers, boxers and Bernese mountain dogs. However, most pure bred dogs have an increased risk of some form of cancer.”

Because ETS could cause certain cancers in our furry companions, it is important to take the necessary precautions when lighting up. Dr. Wilson suggests several preventative measures to take around your pets.

“The best thing to do is to stop smoking. It is good for both your health and theirs,” urges Dr. Wilson. “Carcinogens are carried on your fingers and around your mouth because of all the oily toxins that are deposited there. The toxins stay in the furniture and carpets for a long time and are impossible to get rid of. These toxins are often the carcinogens of the cigarettes, so stopping smoking all together is the best way to protect yourself and your pet.”

However, if you can’t quit cold turkey, Wilson suggests “smoking outside or in areas away from your pet.”

While ETS has not been proven to be a direct cause of cancer in pets, its ability to increase the risk of cancer in our furry companions is hazardous enough. So before you light up another cigarette, think twice about the health of your loving friend and take the necessary precautions to ensure their well-being.

ABOUT PET TALK...

Pet Talk is a service of the College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University. Stories can be viewed on the Web at http://tamunews.tamu.edu/.

2009-03-19T10:34:00.002-04:00

This weekend's Charleston Dog Events

Lowcountry Lab Rescue & Noble Ones Bully Breeds Meet & Greets, Pet Helpers Oyster Roast and Silent Auction. More info here: http://snurl.com/e55az

2009-03-12T11:53:00.000-04:00

Food Safety Recalls Also Affect Pets

It seems like more and more cases are reported every day of contamination to our food supply. The recent case of Salmonella found in peanut butter products is just one example of this potentially dangerous problem. While the media coverage about these outbreaks typically centers on the human food supply, there is also a danger to the food we feed our pets as well.

Dr. John Bauer, Professor of Small Animal Medicine & Faculty of Nutrition at the Texas A&M University College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, puts it this way, “Pet food safety is family food safety. Not only are pets increasingly part of our families, but any food we prepare for them will come in contact with our hands or kitchen surfaces.”

While people are more and more concerned with their pet’s well-being, it is also important to note that there is a similarity in the physiology of humans and our pets. Therefore, we can contract many of the same diseases, disorders and syndromes that they can from contaminated food.

“Salmonella, E. coli, and Lysteria are the most common of the harmful bacteria that are found in both human and pet food. All three of these can cause mild to very serious gastro-intestinal problems including vomiting, diarrhea and dehydration in both humans and animals,” explains Bauer.

As with humans, those that are the most susceptible to these bacteria are pets that are very young, very old or immunocompromised in any way.

“For these ‘at risk’ animals, food contamination can cause symptoms so severe that it can cause neurological disorders and even death,” notes Bauer.

Although food contamination can be dangerous, it is also somewhat preventable. Washing and cooking food properly can reduce a large portion of biological contaminants.

“Food safety is everyone’s responsibility,” states Bauer. “People want to blame the food companies, the restaurants or the grocery stores, but safe handling of food should extend to how it is handled at home.”

Some foods that are most susceptible to food safety issues are raw foods and meats. Fruits and vegetables can contain biologically active contaminants if they are grown with non-potable water or if run-off from animal facilities gets into the ground water.

“There seems to be an increased interest in feeding pets a raw diet,” notes Bauer. “While I personally recommend cooking all food you give your pets, if you do feed your pets raw foods make sure you are handling and washing them properly. However, no matter what food you give to your pets, consult your veterinarian to make sure that it is safe and contains the proper nutrients your pet requires.”

In addition to safe food handling and preparation, pet owners should also be diligent in making sure that the food they are feeding their pets is not currently suspected of contamination.

“The American Veterinary Medical Association’s (AVMA) website has a variety of resources and alerts users to any pet food re-calls and suspected contamination,” recommends Bauer. “The FDA also has an animal and veterinary section that includes warnings of known pet food contamination.”

While these resources can be helpful in avoiding foods that are already known to contain harmful contaminants, unfortunately there may be some out there that have not yet been recognized.

“If you think your pet has eaten something that has made it sick your first line of defense should always be your veterinarian,” advises Bauer. “Veterinarians are just as worried about all aspects of pet safety as you are and it’s important that they are aware of any possible food contamination so any problem is identified and dealt with as quickly as possible.”

Although the FDA, food companies, and pet food companies test for all contaminants they know can cause illness, it’s impossible to test for all the unknowns.

“If everyone whose pet is experiencing problems with a particular food or product takes their pet to the veterinarian then a pattern can emerge quickly and fewer animals will ultimately be affected,” concludes Bauer.

ABOUT PET TALK

Pet Talk is a service of the College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University. Stories can be viewed on the Web at http://tamunews.tamu.edu/.

Suggestions for future topics may be directed to editor@cvm.tamu.edu.

2009-03-10T15:38:00.001-04:00

My sympathies to the Teffeteller family. What a terrible tragedy.

Dogs are animals and no matter what the breed, amount of training and socialization received, or the type of family environment, animals will always have the potential to be "unpredictable." All dogs have the potential to bite. A loving family, good training, and socialization will lessen a dog's chance of acting inappropriately, but the animal instinct is always there. Dogs are dogs. Not "furry children." They don't think like humans and we shouldn't expect them to have human rationale. They don't comprehend size differences between themselves and another dog, for example.

I love dogs and they are my livelihood. However, I am not a dog apologist. There are some that no matter what, will ask what was done to "provoke" the attacking animal. I'm not a member of that group. Sometimes dogs will act in a way that we cannot understand. They are animals, and will behave as such.

I for one owned a dog who became aggressive toward small dogs. Lovely dog with people and medium to large sized dogs but "unpredictable" with small dogs. I have no idea why she became this way. Sometimes she was "provoked," other times her aggression seemed to come out of thin air. Was she trained? Of course! Was she loved? Without doubt. How did I deal with this issue responsibly? She was never off leash and in most cases I muzzled her every time we were off our property. She simply had a very strong self-protective impulse and I knew that at any moment, no matter the amount of training, she could give in to her instincts. I took the right measures to protect myself, my dog and those in my community by keeping her restrained and under my control at all times.

Dogs interact with each other physically, and it is only wise for dog owners to supervise their dogs at dog parks AT ALL TIMES, and only wise for the CCRPC and all other area dog parks to create safe zones for small dogs to play. A small dog play zone WILL cut down on tussles between dogs of mismatched size and strength and WILL lessen the number of dogs severely injured during such tussles.

A breed ban is not the answer. Many people have suggested looking to England, a country that placed a ban on pits several years ago under the Dangerous Dogs Act. Unfortunately, that ban has not been effective because it does not focus on the true problem, irresponsible pet owners. DogMagazine.net reported that dog attacks, irresponsible dog owner practices, and animal abuse and neglect have actually risen since the Act's creation in 1991. http://www.dogmagazine.net/archives/1859/the-dangerous-dogs-act-costing-lives-a-whole-shed-load-of-cash/ Irresponsible pet owners are attracted to a pit bull due to its "tough" reputation and are only more attracted to the dog once it is banned. Or they move on to other protective and physically daunting breeds such as German Shepherds and Dobermans. It is exactly these sorts of dogs that need RESPONSIBLE dog owners. Banning such breeds or restricting them makes them attractive to the exact opposite type of owner these dogs are in need of.

Perhaps the answer instead is to require permits to breed and own any breed or breed mix of a certain size and stature - a sort of dog ownership suitability permit. Those who own certain breeds without such permits would face jail time. Of course this takes time and money.

In the meantime, the city of Charleston has a new leash law and I think it's a good one. Unless on personal property or within a fenced, off-leash dog park, dogs must be on leash. I believe an enforced leash law will cut down on roaming dogs, pet overpopulation, and dog attacks.

When you go to an off-leash dog park, you do accept some risk. A small dog play area will help minimize this risk but that won't stop all dog fights from happening. As dog owners, we must come together and find a real solution for keeping our dogs safe while at dog parks. Perhaps a licensing program that requires a temperament test? The license must then be presented at area dog parks before admittance? But what about un-manned dog parks such as the dog run at Hampton Park? These are the sorts of questions we must ask of each other , with respect and without heightened emotion. Please feel free to weigh in with your thoughts at the LCD message board:
http://www.lowcountrydog.com/board/board_topic/1662497/416801.htm

Educational programs that promote responsible pet ownership are crucial for every community. We are fortunate here in the Charleston area to have many educational programs through groups such as the Charleston Animal Society, Pet Helpers and the various breed specific rescue groups. Lowcountry Dog is committed to promoting these programs and policies in every way possible.

Leah England
Publisher
LCD

2009-03-09T11:00:00.003-04:00

photo courtesy: www.dog-obedience-training-review.com

Training Tip

Jumping – The following suggestions work in general for most dogs, (none of them will apply to all dogs because every dog is an individual like people and every situation is different):
• Swivel your hip into the dog as he leaps on you. Unless you have REALLY bony hips, this shouldn't harm the dog, but will deflect the force of the jump off the more vulnerable parts of your body.
• Step forward and invade the dog's space, possibly also getting him off balance. This move needs to be timed accurately, and used only with dogs that are not fragile or aggressive.
• Give your dog a “sit” cue; a sitting dog is not a jumping dog.
• Give your dog a “down” cue; a dog lying down is not a jumping dog.

Need more training advice? Contact Karen Anderson at PetAgreed Dog Training

2009-03-05T16:24:00.002-05:00

Help protect South Carolina’s pets from domestic violence by supporting House Bill 3117

Help protect South Carolina's animals from abuse

Make a difference today.

Each year throughout South Carolina, countless domestic violence victims risk their lives to protect their defenseless pets from harm. Research has shown that up to 48 percent of battered women remain in abusive homes out of concern for leaving their pets behind.

Children who grow up in an environment of animal abuse live in constant fear that a beloved family member will be harmed. Children often intervene to protect their mothers and pets from being battered, and some may even allow themselves to be victimized to save their pets from being harmed or killed.

To address this issue directly, Rep. Gilda Cobb-Hunter, a longtime advocate for domestic violence survivors, has introduced House Bill 3117. Spearheaded by the South Carolina Coalition Against Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault, the bill encourages judges to include pets in domestic violence protective orders. A protective order is a legal order issued by a court that requires one person to stop harming, stay away from and/or cease contact with another person or, in the case of this bill, that person's pets as well.

We owe it to the countless domestic violence survivors throughout South Carolina to get HB 3117 passed.

HB 3117 is currently in the House Judiciary Committee. Please ask Committee Chairman James H. Harrison to schedule the bill for a hearing and to vote for its passage.

Click here to send a letter to representative Harrison.

2009-02-25T12:13:00.000-05:00

Colorado State University Veterinarian Offer Tips for Caring for Pet on a Budget

During times of economic struggle, pet owners may be looking for ways to reduce the cost of caring for pets. But some measures that seem to reduce costs may end up being more expensive in the long term because of impacts on a pet's health.

Dr. Rebecca Ruch-Gallie, head of Colorado State University's community practice unit within the Veterinary Teaching Hospital, offers the following tips.

- Don't skimp by purchasing low-cost food. Continue to feed as high a quality of dog or cat food as is affordable. Less expensive food often has lower nutritional value. Cheap foods may be high in 'fillers' such as grains that are not typically digestible by the pet and provide little to no nutrition. In addition, pets on low-quality pet food often need more food to be satisfied and to obtain good nutrition, which ultimately ends up eliminating any savings realized by not paying for a high-quality food.

Over the short term, low-quality food may not impact a pet's health. The pet owner will find himself feeding the pet and cleaning waste more often. But in the long term, pets will experience increased health problems such as diabetes and obesity-related issues, and owners will pay higher veterinary bills.

If a pet is on a prescription diet, it's important to the pet's health - and the owner's budget - that a veterinarian is consulted before the pet is removed from that diet. Often, prescription diets are very effective treatments for a condition that is more expensive to treat with medications in the long term.

- Be creative and frugal when giving treats. If you only feed a dry food, consider giving a small amount of canned food as a treat to dogs or cats. Some pets may be lactose intolerant, but if they are not, yogurt and cheese may make suitable treats as well. Also consider using your pet's kibble as a treat - measure out a suitable amount of dog food each day, for example, and draw treats and meals from that amount.

Also, watch how many treats pets are given. Are multiple members of the family giving the dog treats throughout the day? Those treats may add up to lots of pennies, and they also may add up to an unbalanced diet for the pet. Treats should not be more than 5 percent of a pet's diet; if it is more, the diet is out of balance.

- If Fido is fat, consider putting him and the food budget on a diet. About 30 percent to 50 percent of companion animals are overweight or obese, according to Ruch-Gallie. Reducing the amount of food an overweight pet consumes is better for the pet's health and stretches pet food budgets. Pet owners concerned that their pet has a weight problem should first consult with their veterinarian to identify a target weight before putting their pet on a diet.

- Curb pet-related impulse buys. While treats, bones, toys and such may be costly in some stores, significant savings can be found online or at discount stores. Some pet-supply stores have lower pet food prices but higher treat and toy prices. It pays to comparison shop at different stores and online. Veterinarians often can recommend reliable and reputable websites offering good deals.

However, be wary of online veterinary pharmacies. Many online sources for veterinary prescriptions don't sell quality products, and some may sell knock-offs of medications that ultimately won't benefit the pet.

- Learn how to groom pets at home. Brush pets daily or every other day. There are multiple benefits including increasing the bond between the pet and caretaker if such grooming is a good experience for the pet. Brushing cats and dogs also distributes oils in the animal's coat, increasing the health of their skin and fur, decreasing matting and lowering risks of skin infections and irritations (which may lead to expensive veterinary bills).

In addition, people who groom pets often notice changes and abnormalities in their skin and coat and may notice body changes, lumps or other indications of the early stages of illness or disease. Catching these illnesses early often means that treatments are less expensive than they would be as the illness progresses.

There is a reason why many veterinary appointments are made soon after a pet's trip to the groomer, Ruch-Gallie said, The groomer knows the animal's coat and body and is likely to find changes more quickly as a result of the grooming routine.

Trimming cat's claws and dog's nails and grooming their fur at home also saves money spent on professional groomers.

- Practice good dental hygiene. Daily brushing of dog and cat's teeth has significant returns. Even brushing for a short amount of time, particularly right against the gum line with an enzymatic, pet specific toothpaste decreases the risk of infection in a pet's mouth. Those infections often spread to the blood and into organs such as the kidney or into joints.

In addition, keeping a pet's mouth clean helps veterinarians rule out health issues during a visit. Bad breath may be an indication of a digestive issue, but pet owners who don't brush their dog or cat's teeth can't help veterinarians rule out poor dental hygiene. Often, veterinarians fully clean a pet's teeth - a procedure that requires pets to undergo full anesthesia - before discovering that the root of the bad breath may be much more serious.

In addition, pets who undergo a regular tooth brushing at home don't have to spend as much time under anesthesia during a regular dental cleaning.

- Don't skip vaccinations or flea and tick prevention. Vaccines protect pets from painful and tragic diseases such as rabies, and fleas and ticks carry harmful diseases such as the plague that may also be spread to people in contact with dogs and cats. The diseases are much more expensive to treat than the cost of vaccines administered to pets.

Many veterinary clinics now use vaccines that cover a cat or dog's health for three years, which stretches the value of vaccines.

Some vaccination clinics are offered for pets, but be aware that pets only receive vaccines and not a thorough, careful exam.

- Buy fewer toys, and trick pets into thinking those toys are new time and time again. Pets need toys, particularly indoor cats, to keep them active and keep their mind engaged. However, many pet owners tend to buy too many toys, or pets tend to lose interest in toys over time.

However, keeping a stash of five to 10 toys on hand and rotating a few of them allows pets to be stimulated by 'new' toys often. Provide two or three toys for play at a time and store the others. Replace the toys every two to three weeks with some of the toys that have been set aside, and pets will find them as stimulating as they were when they were new.

Be creative with ways to make toys more interactive. Consider buying Buster Cubes or Kongs for dogs and cats to give them more stimulation while they eat or enjoy treats. Hang feather dancers over heating vents so they move for cats. Move toys from room to room to provide a different venue for pets to play in.

- Weight the benefits of purchasing health insurance for pets. While health insurance may seem pricey, it can be worth the $20 to $30 monthly premium, particularly for some pets. Pet insurance dramatically reduces the costs of large veterinary bills ranging from emergency care after an accident, cancer treatment and preventative check-ups and care including vaccinations. Insurance can cut large bills by hundreds of dollars.

Several different companies offer pet insurance, each with different coverage options and some with exclusions. Some companies will not cover hip dysplasia treatment in some large breeds, for example, while others will. Read the fine print and consult with a veterinarian.

Pet insurance is a particularly good investment for pet owners with older pets, outdoor pets or dog and cat breeds particularly prone to certain diseases or illnesses.

- If possible, maintain an annual wellness exam schedule for your pet. Catching an illness or disease early is almost always less expensive to treat than an illness discovered after it has progressed. Veterinarians may also recommend routine blood work, and Ruch-Gallie recommends paying for it if possible. By nature, animals do a good job of disguising when they are not well; blood work can identify problems long before a pet allows its owner to see symptoms.

2009-02-25T09:39:00.000-05:00

This weekend's Charleston dog events: Isle of Palms Family Dog Show, Charity Dog Wash at My Three Dogs. More info here: http://is.gd/hook.

2009-02-18T15:21:00.001-05:00

Moran and Gallegly to Co-Chair Congressional Animal Protection Caucus

WASHINGTON, D.C., February 18, 2009 – Reps. Jim Moran (D-VA) and Elton Gallegly (R-CA) announced today that they will co-chair the newly formed “Congressional Animal Protection Caucus (CAPC),” a bipartisan organization committed to raising awareness of animal welfare issues in Congress. CAPC replaces the Friends of Animals Caucus that existed in previous Congresses.

Through non-partisan forums and briefings, CAPC will seek to highlight important issues affecting animals and upcoming animal welfare legislation. CAPC will also track the progress of relevant legislation, provide members of Congress with dependable information, and attempt to build broad coalitions in support of common-sense, humane animal welfare laws.
In the 110th Congress, the caucus was instrumental in the passing tougher animal fighting legislation, and tightening animal welfare regulations in the 2008 Farm Bill. Priorities for the 111th Congress include legislation banning the slaughter of horses, stronger regulations on Internet sales of puppies, and legislation requiring accurate labels on all fur products.
Rep. Moran stated, “Animals are sensate beings that deserve to be treated with respect and dignity. I look forward to building a consensus among my colleagues in support of sensible animal welfare laws that reflect our common values. Protecting animals from cruel treatment is not a partisan issue.”

“Animal cruelty has no place in a civilized society,” Rep. Gallegly said. “Other crimes often go hand-in-hand with animal fighting, including illegal gambling, drug trafficking and acts of human violence. Virtually every arrest for animal cruelty has also led to additional arrests for at least one of these criminal activities.”

“The American public is united in its belief that all animals deserve humane treatment,” said Wayne Pacelle, President and CEO of The Humane Society of the United States. “The newly constituted Congressional Animal Protection Caucus will help better align our federal policies with public opinion, and we are excited to work closely with its leaders and with the entire Congress to combat cruelty and abuse.”

Media Contact:Jordan Crump: 301-548-7793, jcrump@humanesociety.org
The Humane Society of the United States is the nation’s largest animal protection organization — backed by 11 million Americans, or one of every 28. For more than a half-century, The HSUS has been fighting for the protection of all animals through advocacy, education and hands-on programs. Celebrating animals and confronting cruelty — On the web at humanesociety.org.

2009-02-11T15:20:00.001-05:00

Dog Art Dealer is hosting a reception on Thurs. night for sporting artist Beth Carlson. More info here: http://is.gd/jcKp

Other events coming up. SEWE retriever demos & dock dogs, Charity dog wash @ My Three Dogs, SC Pit Bull Rescue @ Hairy WInston. More info here: http://is.gd/jcLb

2009-01-27T10:03:00.002-05:00

Click HERE for a great piece on the Middleton Hounds by photographer/blogger Paul Zoeller.

2009-01-26T21:45:00.000-05:00

2009-01-21T09:14:00.002-05:00

Adoptable Pets at Pet Helpers

Get your day started right. Take a look at these awesome photos by Davis Manier of adoptable pets at Pet Helpers. These dogs and cats need good homes. If you can't adopt, consider a tax deductible donation, a donation of food or needed supplies, volunteer at a Pet Helpers event, or go take a few of the shelter dogs out for a walk and some play time. I have a feeling it will do your heart some good too.

To see the photos click on the link, then Portfolio, then Pet Helpers. http://www.davismanier.com/

2009-01-20T16:26:00.000-05:00

Redefining the Odd Couple

2009-01-13T11:41:00.001-05:00

PLANET DOG ANNOUNCES WINNERS OF
ANNUAL ADOPTION CHAMPION AWARDS PROGRAM

Portland, Maine (January 13, 2009) – Planet Dog is proud to announce the winners of their annual Adoption Champion Awards. As part of their ongoing campaign to encourage adoption and reduce the number of pets euthanized each year, Planet Dog created the awards program to support, encourage and reward Planet Dog retailers who "romp the extra mile" when it comes to social responsibility, philanthropy and advocacy for pet adoption.
Each fall, Planet Dog's ACA Committee, a cross-functional team of staff members, selects winners from the pool of those nominated by the company's Sales Account Executives. Nominations for the award are based on annual performance in the following areas: adoption days held at their store; fundraisers held or sponsored for shelters and non-profit animal rescue organizations and overall Planet Dog purchases that determine annual contributions to the Planet Dog Foundation (PDF), Planet Dog's non-profit grantmaking organization.
In addition to receiving a $500 credit for Planet Dog merchandise, the annual winners are listed on the Find A PDOG Retailer section of the company's website (www.planetdog.com) with a special icon that recognizes their achievement, in the Planet Dog wholesale catalog and in Kibble (Planet Dog's Retailer newsletter).
"We are proud to support the many PDOG Retailers that are using creative and effective ways to find loving homes for pets in need," said Catherine Frost, Planet Dog's Brand & Product Champion. "It thrills us to be able to recognize their deep commitment to animal welfare and partner with them at the community level," added Frost.
The four PDOG Retailers to receive the 2008 Adoption Champion Awards are Chuck & Don's of Minneapolis, MN; Hero's Pets of Littleton, CO, Woof! of Plano, TX and the Oregon Humane Society of Portland, OR. These four stores combined have reached out to more than 50 shelters and rescue groups in the form of financial donations and adoption days. To learn more about why these stores were chosen, please visit www.planetdogretailer.com to read their stories in the latest edition of Kibble.
"I want to thank Planet Dog for considering us, especially as I think at WOOF, we are really just doing our part," said MH Hall, Owner of WOOF. "We tend to be more aware of all that we still cannot do so it is great for Planet Dog to recognize that what we are doing is making a difference," added Hall.
In addition to the Adoption Champion Awards Program, Planet Dog also recognizes their retailers who have adoption advocacy integrated in their store's mission. Retailers who hold regular adoption days (at least monthly) in their store or help support their local certified animal shelter are listed as Adoption Advocates on the Find A PDOG Retailer section of www.planetdog.com.
"We realize that our retailers come in many shapes and sizes and that although the Adoption Champion Award celebrates four worthwhile businesses, there are scores of others who are doing what they can to support pet adoption," said Frost. "We want to be sure that these businesses still get the ongoing recognition they deserve," added Frost.
Planet Dog also developed a national Public Service Campaign (PSA) to educate and build awareness about the issue of pet adoption with the United States. To date, the effort has helped influence 750 adoptions across the country.
Whether creating great products, providing financial resources or helping to educate consumers about canine-related issues, Planet Dog is proud to be a pet industry leader with proven socially responsible initiatives that bring people and dogs together for fun and mutual support.
"As a small company doing big things, our goal will always be to improve the world around us by giving back to our community, our workforce and the environment," said Alex Fisher, Planet Dog's Founder. "Our internal mantra is ‘think globally, act doggedly’. When running a business, it’s easy to get absorbed in just the dollars and cents. The mantra helps keep us focused on the higher cause for which we entered this industry,” added Fisher.
Planet Dog’s flagship initiative is the Planet Dog Foundation. The Foundation, whose philanthropic mission is to promote and celebrate programs that enable dogs to serve and support their best friends, receives a percentage of every Planet Dog purchase. In turn, it is donated back to non-profit canine service programs nationwide.
“We’re doing what no other pet product company is doing," said Stephanie Volo, Planet Dog's President. “We offer unique, top-quality products that dogs love, while creating awareness of how much service dogs give back to people in our society. Our goal is for our actions to speak louder than woofs,” added Volo.
Since January 2006, PDF has given away more than $400,000 in grants and in-kind donations to several worthy organizations nationwide. For more information and a full list of programs and grantees, please visit www.planetdogfoundation.org.

2008-12-20T11:12:00.003-05:00

Biden in Trouble Over Puppy, Breeder

It's old news that Biden received a German Shepherd puppy as a gift from his wife, then adopted a 2nd shelter dog to appease animal rights activists angry over his initial choice to purchase a dog from a breeder. But now, thanks to ongoing media scrutiny, we know that the breeder from which the puppy was purchased has been recently written up for violations of animal law. Read the full story here, then come back to the dog blog and let us know what you think.

2008-12-19T16:14:00.006-05:00

photo: rottentomatoes.com

Marley & Me Bound to Raise Some Questions about Dog Training (or lack thereof)

On Christmas Day, the film version of the popular book “Marley & Me” will be released nationwide. While the film promises to faithfully capture the sweet spirit and message of the book, its subject—Marley, a wildly out-of-control-but-lovable yellow Labrador retriever—will raise questions (and some hackles) about what the dog’s owners could have done to better understand their pet and to correct his many behavioral problems.

“Labs are intelligent dogs and need to be kept busy,” said James, dog behavioral therapist, Bark Busters USA. “They are eager to please and catch on quickly to training that is communicated clearly and consistently.”

That training needs to start with ground rules established and maintained from the moment the dog (or puppy) enters your home. When a dog—any dog—is guided by your strong leadership and setting of firm boundaries, both man and dog will enjoy an infinitely more rewarding relationship.

Dogs do only whatever they can get away with. It is up to the owner to educate the dog about the rules of the pack, which requires a commitment to consistent leadership from the owner. For example, remember that your fluffy 10-pound new puppy who loves to jump up on you will one day be an 85-pound adult dog whose jumping is no longer cute and, indeed, can cause harm to you or others. Don’t allow such behaviors to begin, and correct any unwanted behaviors right away.

Labs are a popular breed because they love to be with people, including children. They are typically playful and good-natured. Because Lab puppies are very bouncy and boisterous, they may not be ideal for households with very small children, the elderly or infirm. Labs are best for families with active lifestyles who can allow the dog to have regular outlets for his seemingly boundless energy.

“Labs, like many breeds, are prone to separation anxiety, which can lead to behavior issues. A bored, lonely Lab with nothing interesting to do,” added Michelle, dog behavioral therapist, Bark Busters USA. “he will quickly find ways to vent his pent-up energy by barking, chewing and destroying anything he encounters in your house or yard.”

Had the Grogan family who owned Marley sought training from a qualified dog behavioral therapist to help them understand and act on these human-canine fundamentals, their lives together would have been less eventful and far more peaceful.

One example of how training could have helped both family and pet is related to how Marley reacted to thunderstorms, a common fear among canines. Many dogs “learn” to cower at thunder because their owners console them when they hear a loud noise. While it is understandable that you would want to coddle your frightened pet, this does not help the dog if you are not with him when a thunderstorm (or fireworks or a noisy trash collector) comes along. If your dog is frightened by loud noises, don’t make it an “event.” Simply guide your furry friend to a place where it is safe and quiet, ideally his crate. You could also cover the crate with a blanket to soften the impact of the loud noises. The dog will quickly learn to seek shelter there whenever he feels scared. If your dog exhibits extreme fear from thunderstorms, talk to your vet about more ways to help the dog feel calmer.

The following are some tips to help you manage your active Labrador retriever or any high-energy dog:

• Provide toys that can handle heavy chewing. Labs are generally food motivated, so use treat-giving puzzle toys to keep him mentally stimulated.
• Get into the habit of providing daily training sessions of 15 minutes or so. Remember, dogs tire far more quickly from mental stimulation than from physical activities.
• Crate training is strongly recommended for Labs. Not only does a crate help with housebreaking, it also helps to create boundaries for your pet, keeping both your dog and your house safe.
• Anticipate your dog’s possible naughty behavior. Put baby locks on cupboard doors, put away trash cans, separate your dog from a small child with food. (The dog may snatch the food not out of aggression but simply because the temptation is just too great.)
• Use Bitter Apple spray, or other taste deterrents, on objects you don’t want your pooch to chew.

To fetch a Bark Busters trainer in our area, call 1-877-500-BARK (2275) or visit www.BarkBusters.com, where dog owners can complete a Dog Behavioral Quiz to rate their dogs' behavior.

2008-12-16T17:21:00.002-05:00

This little book is the first in a series called "The Adventures of Sammy the Wonder Dachshund." The subtitle of the book is "Sammy's Last Week in Charleston". In it, Sammy agrees to take a new job, in a new city, only to find out he has to move in one week. The book goes through the days of the week while Sammy tries to say his goodbyes and pack in as much fun as he can. By the end of the week, Sammy begins to get a little sad. Then after some thought he realizes, he may be moving on to new things but he will always have great friends and he can always call the wonderful city of Charleston "Home."

Local author Jonathan Miller is having a book signing party. See details below. Partial proceeds go to a good cause, so strap on your pretty heels, tie on that Charlestonian bow-tie and and support Sammy the Wonder Dachshund.

Hibernian Hall
Wednesday, December 17th
7:00 PM—11:00 PM

Books will be there for sell, along with 12 x 18 prints of the artwork from the book. We are also having a silent auction for the original artwork from the book, the auction will end around 9:15 PM. A portion of the proceeds from the auction will go to benefit the Teachers' Supply Closet Organization, which helps Lowcountry teachers get the materials they need to educate students.

There will be plenty of wine and beer at the party along with food provided by Oak Steakhouse!

For more info contact the author at : jonmiller33@gmail.com

2008-12-10T21:44:00.001-05:00

Dog takes not only one bullet to protect his family from an intruder, but three! And what do you know, he's a pit bull. Click here.

2008-12-09T15:49:00.003-05:00

Apparently you dog CAN get jealous. It's not just anthropomorphism! Read the full story by clicking here.

2008-12-09T09:03:00.002-05:00

Got some time on your hands? Make your dog their own iphone controlled dog treat dispenser.

2008-12-02T09:24:00.001-05:00

Video Game Promotes Animal Rescue & Adoption

Interactive video and online game publisher Legacy Interactive has created Pet Pals: New Leash on Life, a computer simulation game that takes place inside an animal rescue center where the player assumes the role of a veterinarian in diagnosing, treating, caring for and even adopting virtual pets. Proceeds support The Humane Society of the United States.

Pet Pals: New Leash on Life is the latest title in Legacy’s award winning Pet Pals series. The goal is to nurse all of the admitted animals back to health using realistic medical tools and ultimately adopt them into forever homes. Players prepare their animals for adoption by training, grooming, petting and playing with them until they are ready for their future homes. When a pet has been successfully treated and placed in the right home, players get a promotion with more responsibilities and more difficult cases to handle.

“This is a great educational tool in helping to understand the daily responsibilities of animal rescue and the importance of adoption,” states Stephanie Shain, director of outreach, companion animals for The Humane Society of the United States.

The Humane Society of the United States works tirelessly to ensure a better world for animals across the globe. The HSUS runs spay/neuter and adoption programs, works to end the cruel practice of puppy mills, supports animal shelters, fights cruelty and cares for the animal victims of disasters and other emergencies.

“We are so excited to provide support for the invaluable programs of The Humane Society of the United States,” said Ariella Lehrer, president and CEO, Legacy Interactive. “We hope that by purchasing Pet Pals: New Leash on Life, players will get the opportunity to see what it’s like to be a veterinarian, have fun, and at the same time feel good about supporting a great animal protection organization.”
Pet Pals: New Leash on Life is available for PC download at www.petpalsgame.com and is rated E for Everyone, ages 8+.

2008-11-21T09:58:00.003-05:00

Dog Drives Car into Coffeehouse

The coffeehouse didn't have a drive thru window to begin with, but it does now! A man tried to do the right thing and leave the heat on for his dog while he grabbed a cup of Joe, but no good deed goes unpunished. Watch a CNN ireport on the disaster that ensued. Luckily no one was hurt!

2008-11-07T12:21:00.001-05:00

Guess the Transition of Power Isn't Going too Well...

Barney, the outgoing first dog, bit a reporter. See the full story here.
In all due respect though, the reporter bent down and approached Barney way too fast... and he also had quite a bit in his hands. It's pretty easy to see how from a dog's perspective this looked like aggressive behavior.

2008-11-05T14:40:00.001-05:00

ASPCA Urges Obama Family to Adopt First Dog

The ASPCA® (The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals®) today applauded the flurry of recent news reports that the Obama Family will consider adopting a shelter dog when they choose their new family pet for the White House.

“The unconditional love we get from our companion animals is one of the greatest gifts in life,” said ASPCA President & CEO Ed Sayres. “At the ASPCA, we are thrilled at the prospect that the Obama Family will ‘make pet adoption their first option’ and head to their local animal shelter or rescue group, where there are many extraordinary animals just waiting for a forever home. Whether their preference is dog or cat, small or large, purebred or lovable mutt, they could both find the perfect pet and help an animal in need, which would be an incredible opportunity.”

One of the best ways the Obama Family can find their perfect pet is through the ASPCA®’s Meet Your Match™ (MYM) adoption program, which is being used by hundreds of animal shelters and rescue groups across the country. The MYM program assesses the “Canine-ality™” of adoptable dogs as well as the “Feline-ality™” of adoptable cats, and matches them with their perfect pet parents based on compatibility. Based on their assessments, the animals are assigned one of nine canine-alities or feline-alities which fall into three major purple, orange, and color-coded categories. The descriptions are added to the animal’s cage (or kennel) card, and the animals are ready to meet their human matches. Some examples include the relaxed and laid back “Couch Potato,” the naturally playful, curious and trusting “Busy Bee,” and action hero-type “Go-Getter.”

The adopter survey is the second component of the process, which asks 19 questions of the potential adopter to determine which Canine-ality™ or Feline-ality™ best matches their expectations, experience, lifestyle and home environment. The adopter is given a purple, orange or green guest pass – color coordinated to match the cage cards of the cats that best match them.

“The MYM program is a perfect fit for any family, especially the Obamas,” said Dr. Emily Weiss, the ASPCA’s Senior Director of Shelter Behavior Programs, and a developer of the program. “Potential pet adopters can easily be overwhelmed with choices of breed, size, and even coat color, but with the MYM adoption process, the Obama Family will be able to complete the MYM Adopter Survey together, meet all their four-legged matches, and choose the perfect pet for their family.”

For more information on the ASPCA®’s Meet Your Match™ program, and how to find the perfect pet, please visit. www.aspca.org.

2008-11-04T11:16:00.003-05:00

Don't forget about Friday's Fur Ball. PetHelpers is a fantastic organization and this is their largest and most important fund-raiser. And it's lots of fun too! This year, they have auction items that fit every budget, from $20 to $3,000. So there's something there for everyone. Tickets will be available at the door. See event info below.

Cough it up for the Fourth Annual Fur Ball!

Pet Helpers 4^th Annual Fur Ball Black Tie Gala will be held Friday, November 7^th, 6:30 pm, at the Marriott on Lockwood Blvd. We are celebrating our 30^th anniversary and pearls will be the theme of this years Party for the Pets!

As you begin your evening with a beverage from the open bar and Hors ‘d oeuvres, you will have time to view and bid on the many exciting Silent Auction items which include: Vacation Get-a-Ways, Art work, Dinners, Jewelry, Golf Packages and many other exciting and unique items. While enjoying your plated dinner, you will also have a chance to bid on items during our exciting Live Auction, emceed by Tom Crawford and Victoria Hansen of TV 4 News and then dance the night away to some great music.

All proceeds from this gala will fund our Pet Helpers Adoption Center and Spay/ Neuter Clinic. Our new facility houses over 250 homeless animals on a daily basis, where they are all medically cared for and given TLC in an open, bright and cheerful environment. All of Pet Helpers animals are kept until adopted.

Tickets to the Fur Ball cost $150 each and can be purchased at the shelter or by calling (843) 795-1110. Visa and MasterCard are available. The Fur Ball Gala has sold out the past three years; with only 350 tickets available, seating is limited, so call now! It is an evening you don’t want to miss! For more information, log onto our website at www.pethelpers.org.

2008-10-16T11:31:00.000-04:00

Pet Helpers Adoption Center & Spay/Neuter Clinic has entered a cool contest and needs your help!!

For all people who spoil their pets rotten or if you just want to do your good deed for the day, Pet Helpers has entered Care2’s “Vote for your Favorite Animal Shelter” contest. The shelter with the most votes will win $10,000! The contest ends November 1, 2008 and we need at least 1,000 votes to qualify. Voting takes less than a minute and the site asks for your name, e-mail and zip code to participate. (Be sure to “opt out” of their e-mail list at the bottom right before clicking the “Vote” button if you don’t want to receive newsletters.)

This is a national contest, so PLEASE pass the link and instructions to anyone who could vote today!

TO VOTE…click here: http://www.care2.com/animalsheltercontest/75635

Thank you in advance for giving Pet Helpers your support

2008-10-14T12:13:00.000-04:00

The Frances R. Willis SPCA of Dorchester County is low on food supplies. They are hosting a dog food drive during the month of October. Food can be dropped off at the following locations:

Mr. K's Piggly Wiggly
404 North Cedar Street - Summerville
1605 Central Avenue - Knightsville

Piggly Wiggly
680 Bacons Bridge Rd. - Summerville

Patterson Printing
402 Old Trolley Rd. - Summerville

Carolina One Real Estate Offices
900 N. Main St. - Summerville
1530 Old Trolley Rd. - Summerville

Frances R. Willis SPCA
136 Four Paws Lane in Summerville

Cash and credit card donations can be made only at the SPCA facility. Food reserves are critically low. If you need more information, call the SPCA at 871-3820.

2008-10-07T21:41:00.005-04:00

Local Firms Create the Ultimate in Posh Pet Design

Parker-Sims Interiors and Annie Melvin of Boutique Tents partnered to create the Chateau de Chien - an entry in Pierre Deux's national posh pet design challenge benefiting Canine Companions for Independence. Make sure to vote for the Chateau de Chien at www.pierredeux.com now through November 14th! Go Charleston!

On October 23 during the Upper King Design Walk, the Chateau will be on view at Three Dog Bakery.

On October 24 from 6-9 Pierre Deux is hosting an unveiling event in their showroom at 279 King and 10% of all proceeds will be donated to Canine Companions for Independence.

2008-09-21T11:20:00.001-04:00

Charleston Air Force Base Pet Fest

The Charleston Air Force Base is currently planning its inaugural "PetFest 2008", which will be held on Saturday, September 27th, from 10 am to 2 pm. PetFest 2008 is designed to entertain and educate our military, civilian employees, retirees, and their families (including the four-legged ones!) about pets of all kinds; all the while benefitting local charities.

Plans include having a number of rescue groups in attendance with dogs (and a few cats) available for adoption, a variety of contests in which pets can compete, agility demonstrations, canine good citizen tests, a variety of doorprizes, and the opportunity for pups to take swimming lessons in our pool. CAFB will also be offering K-9 demonstrations, a display of indigenous wildlife and reptiles, and the base vet clinic will be providing microchipping services. As a "price of admission" all attendees are asked to bring a bag or cans of dog/cat food for our local shelters to aid in the wake of recent surrenders.

Please note that this event is NOT open to the public. Base credentials are required for access.

Contact Caroline Werntz for more info.

Caroline R. Werntz
Marketing & Commercial Sponsorship
437th Force Support Squadron
102 North Davis Drive, Building 322, 1st Floor
Charleston Air Force Base, SC 29404
843.963.3816 (phone)
843.963.2788 (fax)
caroline.werntz@charleston.af.mil (e-mail)

2008-08-25T20:06:00.004-04:00

A stray dog shelters a newborn baby abandoned by it's 14 year old mother in an Argentinian field. The baby would have surely died in the 37 degree weather had the dog not been so heroic! Read more about the amazing story here.

2008-08-20T13:10:00.000-04:00

ASPCA Applauds Indictment in Tennessee’s Largest-Ever Puppy Mill Raid

NEW YORK – The ASPCA® (The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals®) today applauded the indictment in the case of Tennessee’s largest-ever puppy mill raid of more than 700 dogs earlier this summer. A grand jury formally indicted Patricia Adkisson yesterday on 24 felony counts of aggravated animal cruelty, nine misdemeanor counts of animal cruelty, and more than a dozen other misdemeanors. Arraignment has been scheduled for September.

“We are honored to have assisted in the investigation of this case and are extremely satisfied with the indictment,” said ASPCA President and CEO Ed Sayres. “While it does not erase the horrible neglect and inhumane treatment these animals suffered through, we know our work continues to shine the spotlight on animal cruelty in this country as well as the importance of fighting against it.”

The ASPCA assisted in the June raid by lending a special forensic cruelty investigation team that includes two forensic veterinarians, as well as the ASPCA’s Mobile Animal Crime Scene Investigation (CSI) Unit. The ASPCA team was deployed at the request of the Humane Society of the United States (HSUS), which led the raid, to assist in the collection of evidence for the prosecution of the criminal case. The team included the ASPCA’s Dr. Melinda Merck, the nation’s premier forensic veterinarian and “animal CSI,” and the ASPCA’s Disaster Response Team.

The 747 animals discovered in the raid were housed in various enclosures among the property’s 92 acres of hilly and rocky terrain known as Pine Bluff Kennels in Lyles, Tennessee. More than a dozen animals were found dead. According to Dr. Merck, the majority of the animals were dogs, including more than 200 puppies, suffering from a general lack of husbandry, such as little to no food or water, lack of proper ventilation in enclosed areas, and feces encrusted pens. Conditions such as matting, sores, broken limbs, hernias, abscesses, and a host of other medical conditions were also prevalent. Other animals discovered on the property included horses, burros, miniature horses, chickens, goats, parrots and purebred cats.

Animals in critical condition were examined immediately on the ASPCA’s Mobile Animal CSI Unit, which operates under the leadership of Dr. Merck and brings both state-of-the-art forensics tools and unmatched expertise to crime scenes. The specially-designed vehicle is also outfitted with medical equipment tailored for animal patients.

At the time of the raid, animals seized from the facility were placed into the official custody of the HSUS and transported to a nearby emergency shelter, eventually in the hopes of being placed in shelters and adopted into loving homes. Many of the other animals, including livestock, were in temporary foster care.

For more information about puppy mills and the ASPCA’s fight against animal cruelty, visit www.aspca.org.

2008-08-05T18:56:00.004-04:00

A Sad Day in Animal Welfare

A U.S. woman received five puppies today cloned from her late pet pitbull. Read the full story here.

I personally think commercial canine cloning is a big, big mistake. According to the Anti-Vivisection Society, " studies have shown that the multiple procedures involved in animal cloning not only cause pain and stress to the surrogate animals used in the lab, but the offspring - if they actually survive birth-do not look or act identical to the original animal." Thus, cloning is a mute point that only brings about possible damage! It would make just as much sense ( and would certainly be more natural) to purchase a dog from the same bloodline through a reputable breeder. Your chances of a dog of similar temperament and physical characteristics are just as good.

It's a fact that the mast majority of clones suffer birth defects and die prematurely. Why else do you think that for the $50,000 fee the S. Korean company charged her, the first woman to clone her dog received FIVE puppies! Will all five puppies survive and live long healthy lives? Doubtful.

I understand this woman's grief over the loss of her beloved pet. Apparently he was an incredible animal that saved her from another dog's attack and then later helped her when she was wheelchair bound. But I believe it would have been better for her ( and more respectful of her dog's memory) to have saved the life of a dog in a shelter rather than clone her departed pet.

Cloning is dubious science at best and frankly quite scary to me. Just because we can clone animals doesn't mean we should.

What do you think?

2008-08-04T10:57:00.002-04:00

First Whole-Pet Health and Wellness Web Site Launches

Search "pet health" on theInternet and more than 16 million sites and references pop up. With somuch online clutter, it's no wonder a recent survey found three out of four pet owners would find a singular site for pet health and wellness information valuable. A new online platform that redefines how pet owners approach pet care launches today with WebVet (www.webvet.com), the first whole-pet resource that brings together, in one trusted place, veterinarian-approved pet health and wellness information, as well as lifestyle trends and pet-centric news from leading animal health experts and award-winning reporters.

The survey, sponsored by WebVet, also revealed that pet owners visit anywhere from two to five sites or more before they find the right online pet health information, and nearly one-quarter of all pet owners feel they cannot find what they need at all. "In fact, nearly half of all pet owners told us they are skeptical of the quality of existing online pet sources," said Bill Zaccheo, chief executive officer of WebVet. "WebVet gives pet owners access to credible information that for the first time encompasses both the physical and emotional needs of their pets."

Trusted Experts In Pet Health and Pet Topics

WebVet does not diagnose health issues, dispense advice, or editorialize; rather, it is a neutral resource providing news, information and fact-based education from credible expert sources and partners. WebVet's Veterinary Advisory Council is composed of some of the most highly respected veterinarians in the industry, including Jan Trumpeter, DVM, deputy executive director, the American Animal Hospital Association, and Mike Cavanaugh, director, veterinary specialty team,
Pfizer Animal Health, among others.

WebVet works hand-in-hand with the nation's leading veterinarians to serve as a supplemental resource to help inform and educate pet owners. Unlike any other online pet resource, at least once a year all content on the site -- both medical and general interest -- is rigorously reviewed and updated by a veterinary member of WebVet's Editorial Review Board and then granted a "seal of approval" from the WebVet Veterinary Advisory Council.

"Without a doubt the veterinarian is the most trusted authority for pet owners, but the reality is that owners turn to the Internet on a daily basis for health and wellness information," said Hope Schultz, co-founder, president and chief operating officer of WebVet. "Owners are confused about where to go and whom to trust, and that's why WebVet's expert resources make it easier to be a better pet parent."

WebVet is supported by diverse partnerships with some of country's most respected pet industry organizations, such as the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA), Cat Fanciers Association (CFA), Sittercity, the Zoological Education Network, the Winn Foundation and Pfizer Animal Health. In addition, WebVet maintains a roster of dedicated, award-winning writers to research and report relevant pet news and human interest stories on an ongoing basis.

"Because WebVet offers one trusted and reliable place for pet owners to gather information about health care for pets, it is a tremendous asset to both consumers and veterinarians," said Georgette Wilson, DVM, manager, Veterinary Operations for Pfizer Animal Health. "A well-informed pet owner can be very helpful to veterinarians when making decisions regarding the best course of action for their pets' health."

Beyond Conventional Pet Care

WebVet is the first online resource for dogs, cats, birds and small pets (rabbits, ferrets, guinea pigs and more) that provides a unique "whole pet" platform that addresses both the physical and emotional needs of pets. "We want pet owners to have the resources they need to fully embrace and engage in their pet's health and wellness as they would their own," added Schultz. "WebVet is the first resource that
truly focuses on a pet's body, mind and soul, combining one's own personal knowledge of what their pet needs with their veterinarian's knowledge relative to their physical health."

Beyond arming owners with accurate, credible medical content and health and wellness information, WebVet keeps pet lovers at the forefront of new developments relevant to their pets' daily lives. On WebVet, pet owners will find:

* Health and Wellness Education -
With a roster of 25 dedicated writers and a network of more than 80,000 veterinarians via partnerships with some of the nation's most respected animal health and industry organizations, WebVet offers the most comprehensive,credible and unbiased resource for pet health and wellness information.

* Everyday Life Features -
WebVet provides pet owners with original content and access to the latest pet-related lifestyle trends. WebVet covers everything from global developments and local pet services to inspirational human interest stories and diet and exercise routines. WebVet also dives deeply into emerging trends, such as holistic care, offering a wide array of articles ranging from alternative medicine and treatments to how to create a non-toxic living environment.

* Community -
WebVet offers a community atmosphere with places for pet owners to connect with one another through opt-in WebVet Mail newsletters, tagged content and shared commentary. Forums allow users to join support groups as well as share experiences and knowledge that is relevant to their pet's health and well-being. In addition, WebVet counseling experts provide the latest information on a cross-section of topics, including animal law, pet loss and merging families.

WebVet is dedicated to providing pet owners with everything they need to be the best pet parents possible. In response to pet owner feedback, shortly after its launch, WebVet will integrate "Pet 311," a wellness and prevention hotline providing pet owners with the most current information available regarding seasonal and other timely health topics.

"Pet owners are deeply involved in all aspects of their pets' lives," said Janice Trumpeter, DVM, deputy executive director, American Animal Hospital Association. "WebVet provides an informative and credible resource outside of the veterinarian's office that educates pet owners about raising a healthy and happy pet."

As part of its mission, WebVet is committed to giving back to animal welfare and will create programs to actively engage users to participate in a variety of fundraising initiatives that will benefit both pets and those who love and support them.

For more information about this new online resource, pet owners and lovers can visit www.webvet.com.

2008-07-31T09:16:00.002-04:00

Rachael Ray Going to the Dogs with New Pet Food

Celebrity chef Rachael Ray has launched a charity-driven line of dog foods based on recipes she created for her pit bull, Isaboo. Product information claims the commercial food is based on real meat and veggies and does not contain fillers. All sales of the Rachael Ray Nutrish pet foods will go to Rachael's Rescue, which helps at-risk animals.

Has anyone seen this food anywhere? I wonder what the ingredients and production method are. You can spin a press release, but not the ingredient list! Is this really a high quality food or is it just the latest in Rachel's long list of "products" and endorsements? I applaud her though for her rescue work and donating proceeds to the organization she created.

If anyone has seen this food or has used the product let me know what you think!

2008-07-15T19:31:00.001-04:00

Obama Family Dog Web Site Rockets Past 20,000 Signatures Just 24 Hours after Launch

Animal lovers from across the United States are jumping on the Barack Obama adopt-a-dog bandwagon.

Since it was launched less than 24 hours ago by Best Friends Animal Society, the ObamaFamilyDog.com web site has surpassed 20,000 signatures on a petition to urge the Democratic presidential candidate to adopt a dog rather than purchasing from a commercial breeder or pet store.

Utah-based Best Friends, which operates the nation’s largest sanctuary for adoptable companion animals, hopes the web site will help convince the Obamas to join thousands of other Americans who believe that adoption from a shelter or breed rescue organization is the way to add a companion animal to the family.

When Michelle Obama, wife of the senator, mentioned weeks ago that the Obamas had promised their kids a dog following the presidential campaign, the American Kennel Club was quick to offer suggestions for purebred dogs. But Best Friends, which launched “A Puppy-Store-Free LA” campaign in Los Angeles last week, countered with the adoption option.

“Our members are casting their votes at the rate of about 1,000 per hour,” said Julie Castle, director of community programs and services for Best Friends. “The speed at which the signatures have multiplied is testimony to the fact that the ethical message of adoption, embraced by Best Friends and many other animal welfare organizations, is getting through to the masses.”

Across the country, in both red and blue states, millions of dogs are killed each year in shelters in large part because there aren’t enough families for them, Castle pointed out. “Best Friends believes that adopting a homeless pet is the right choice. Win or lose, this is an opportunity for Sen. Obama to effect change on this very important issue.”

Best Friends urges families to consider adopting from a shelter or breed rescue organization, rather than purchasing from a commercial breeder or pet store. Adoption helps save lives of dogs that ultimately would be euthanized and is a more socially responsible choice for new pet owners. It also helps decrease the demand for dogs from puppy mills, the large commercial breeding enterprises that supply pet shops across the United States.

Last week at a Los Angeles news conference, Best Friends Animal Society and Last Chance for Animals jointly announced the launch of “A Puppy-Store-Free LA” campaign to shine the light on tens of thousands of dogs across the United States that are trapped in puppy mills, which serve as suppliers for pet shops around the country.

“We’re hoping “A Puppy-Store-Free LA” campaign will help us stop the flow of puppies from puppy mills to pet stores and at the same time make it more difficult to sell puppies from puppy mills,” Castle said. “Obviously, if Sen. Obama chooses to adopt, it will set an example for all Americans—that adopting a homeless pet is the right thing to do.”

For more information about adopting a dog, Best Friends suggests a visit to a local shelter or looking online at any of the following web sites:

www.1-800-save-a-pet.com
www.pets911.com
www.petfinder.com

Potential adopters can also find a purebred dog from a breed rescue organization by searching www.google.com. Enter a city or state, the breed you are looking for, and the word “rescue.”

“Kindness to Animals Builds a Better World for All of Us”

2008-06-17T12:32:00.001-04:00

Dog Plucks Boy From Platte

OMAHA, Neb. -- A Labrador retriever lived up to its name Friday when he plucked his 12-year-old owner out of the Platte River, near North Bend.

Check out the full story here.

2008-05-28T13:55:00.001-04:00

Get Out a Different Vote: Let’s Hear it for Heroic Pets and People!
ASPCA Seeks Nominations for 2008 Humane Awards

As citizens across the country continue to make their way to the polls for the 2008 Presidential primaries, the ASPCA® (The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals®) is asking the public to cast one more ballot.

As it does every year, the organization is seeking public nominations of extraordinary pets and people for its annual Humane Awards program. If you know a fabulous feline or precocious pooch with a knack for saving lives, or a heroic human being who has improved the lives of animals, the ASPCA wants to hear from you. Nominations are being accepted until July l5 at www.aspca.org/nominate.

Last year’s winners included a first-aid wunderkind and golden retriever who performed a modified Heimlich maneuver on his choking owner; a petite kitty with a loud voice who saved her family from dying of carbon monoxide poisoning; and a selfless pre-teen who works tirelessly on behalf of homeless horses.

"The ASPCA Humane Awards is our way of recognizing the important role animals play in our lives, the significance of the human-animal bond, and the people who make animal welfare a central part of their lives," said ASPCA President & CEO Ed Sayres.

Those who may be considered for this distinguished honor include humans who have worked on behalf of animal welfare and animals who have engaged in acts of heroism in the United States during the past year. Winners will be invited to attend the Humane Awards Luncheon on Thursday, October 30, at the historic Rainbow Room in New York City, where the awards will be presented.

Categories open for nomination include:

· ASPCA Dog of the Year

: for a dog who has performed a heroic act in the past year;

· ASPCA Cat of the Year

: for a cat who has performed a heroic act in the past year;

· ASPCA Kid of the Year

: for a child aged 14 or under who has rescued an animal or helps make the world a kinder place for animals;

· ASPCA Law Enforcement Officer of the Year

: for a member of the municipal police force (or other public service officer) who has made a heroic effort to save an animal in the past year; and

· ASPCA Firefighter of the Year

: for a municipal firefighter who has made a heroic effort to save an animal in the past year.

· Other Nominations

: Any other nomination that does not fit into any of the above categories.

The ASPCA will is accepting nominations via its Web site at www.aspca.org/nominate. All submissions must include the following: the nominee’s name, street address, email address, and telephone number; the category for which he/she is being nominated; and a short statement (400 words or less) of why this person or pet deserves the award.

The deadline for entries is Tuesday, July 15, at 12 PM (EST). Winners will be chosen by a committee selected by the ASPCA, and announced to the public in mid-October. For more information, please visit www.aspca.org/nominate.

2008-05-09T16:34:00.004-04:00

Obesity in Pets

While over-feeding by giving treats to your animal may be considered a sign of your affection, it might also be a death sentence. In the United States and other countries, about 40 percent of pets are obese. In fact, the No.1 nutritional problem for all pets is obesity.

Dr. Debra Zoran, associate professor and chief of medicine at the Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, has some valuable advice about getting your portly pet in shape.

She says the first step a pet owner should take is to have the pet examined by a veterinarian to assess its overall health, body weight and body condition. The vet will typically use the Body Condition System (BCS) chart in order to classify the animal as lean, overweight or obese. A score of 8 or 9 on the BCS means the animal is clinically obese and measures should be taken to reduce the animal’s excess fat tissue.

“Obesity in animals is caused by a combination of over nutrition and decreased energy expenditure,” Zoran confirms.

Over nutrition is something that the pet owner can control, with a little extra effort and help in understanding proper feeding in dogs and cats from your veterinarian. Zoran says there are a number of dietary factors that can result in a pet becoming obese. First, pet owners need to know the proper amount of food – and calories – they need to provide their animal based on its lifestyle, neuter status, workload and body condition.

She notes to keep in mind that recommended serving sizes on the labels of pet food have been calculated for active, intact animals, and should be decreased by 20 - 30 percent for neutered animals, house dogs and cats, and animals that lead a primarily sedentary lifestyle.

“Dogs should be fed twice a day at controlled time intervals. Try not to leave the food bowl down constantly since this is often the cause of overeating,” informs Zoran.

Zoran also recommends limiting the number of treats a dog receives, especially around the dinner table. Every treat the dog receives has calories, which can lead to obesity if the dogs’ caloric intake is not adjusted. Since treats are often an important aspect of owner-dog interaction, it is essential to increase exercise to compensate for the added calories. This can be done by allowing the animal to run in the backyard or taking the animal to a park. It is important to visit with a veterinarian if a pet owner is unsure of the optimum amount of food or treats a dog should receive.

Just as in dogs, feline obesity is also a significant problem in pet cats. Since inside cats are less likely to be extremely active, their caloric content should be carefully controlled. The most common method of feeding indoor cats is free choice, since open bowl feeding is highly associated with over-eating.

Ideally, Zoran says, cats should be fed small meals two to four times a day in controlled time intervals and using a specific amount of food. Zoran recommends encouraging activity in cats by purchasing toys or using other methods of stimulation like laser lights or climbing trees in order to encourage physical activity. The key to feline activity is to increase movement – cats respond to movement and activity.

“Cats need physical activity in order to burn the excess amount of carbohydrates and other calories present in their food,” she adds. “Since cats are carnivores, their bodies do not need any carbohydrates. If the animal lies around all day, these carbohydrates are not used and this can lead to obesity.”

Obesity is a serious disease that can lead to an early death. Obesity is associated with the development of osteoarthritis, diabetes mellitus, hyperlipidemia, cardiac and respiratory diseases and diseases of the urinary system, including kidney disease and bladder problems. Zoran says it is a pet owner’s responsibility to control the animal’s food intake and foster an environment that encourages exercise. A good way to show your pet some love is to keep it thin and healthy.

Pet Talk is a service of the Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences.

2008-05-09T16:27:00.001-04:00

Puppy Born Green!

Watch the video here.

2008-03-25T11:26:00.002-04:00

Beating the Heat

With hot weather just around the corner, you can take some steps to make sure you have a cool cat and not a hot dog as warm temperatures begin affecting people and pets.

Each year, there are hundreds of heat stroke cases in pets seen around the country, and Dr. Kathy Snyder, a veterinarian at the College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences at Texas A&M University, has some valuable advice about pets and warm weather.

According to Snyder, heat stroke afflicts an animal when the animal can not dissipate all the heat from the environment quickly enough to regulate its body temperature. When its body temperature rises to unnatural levels, any of the following can happen: kidney failure, liver failure, abnormal blood clotting, swelling of the brain, tissue loss in the intestines, abnormal heart rhythms, muscle damage and destruction of blood cells.

“If the animal has extensive internal damages from heat stroke, it may die. Pet owners should pay close attention to their animals during the summer months, especially at the beginning of the summer when animals’ bodies are acclimating to the hotter weather,” Snyder explains.

Animals can develop heat stroke in many ways, and pet owners need to take proactive measures to ensure that their pet is not in harm’s way this summer. Snyder advises pet owners to keep a couple of water bowls out during the summer.

“It is important that the animal have a ‘back-up’ water bowl, especially during the summer months. If the animal’s primary water source was depleted for any reason, the animal would need the extra water to prevent heat stroke,” she adds.

It is also important that animals not be left in enclosed spaces where the temperature can increase rapidly to an extreme value, such as cars, garages, sheds and barns. Small, enclosed spaces can easily reach temperatures of 120 degrees in a very short period of time. Pet owners need to make sure that the animal has at least one of the following during the summer months: shade, a baby pool or an active sprinkler system. These can help the animal stay cool in the heat, and help the animal to control its internal body temperature, Snyder notes.

“Pet owners should be careful when exercising with their pets when it is hot outside. The animals may overheat quickly and keep exercising to keep up with the pet owner. If the animal becomes too hot it can experience heat stroke or even die,” says Snyder. Animals with existing obesity or heart, airway or neurological diseases are especially at risk to develop heat stroke.

Another heat stroke prevention measure that pet owners can take is to shave the animal, especially in animals with a thick haircoat. This loss of coat will help the animal to stay cooler during the hottest months of the year, she believes.

According to Snyder, if an animal has developed heat stroke it will display one or more of the following symptoms: lethargy, heavy panting, weakness, vomiting, unresponsiveness or it may even be comatose.

If the animal displays any of these symptoms, Snyder recommends putting cool water on the animal’s coat and then immediately driving it to a veterinarian’s office. Measures can be taken to help the animal, but only if it arrives to the veterinarian’s office quickly, she stresses.

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ABOUT PET TALK...
Pet Talk is a service of the College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University.

2008-03-19T10:24:00.003-04:00

Amazing Short Film: Dog Years

Thanks to Dooce for turning me on to this. A heartbreakingly bittersweet little film. Enjoy.

2008-03-11T17:45:00.005-04:00

Colorado Woman Fined for Pink Poodle
A Boulder woman has hired an attorney to fight a $1,000 fine she was given by the city for coloring her miniature poodle pink. Joy Douglas said she colored Cici pink to help raise awareness for breast cancer. The salon owner said she has used beet juice -- and occasionally Kool-Aid -- for four years now to "stain" her dog. Officials at the Humane Society of Boulder Valley told the Daily Camera Douglas was warned several times before she was issued the ticket on March 1. Douglas is accused of violating the city's code that says "No person shall dye or color live fowl, rabbits, or any other animals." It’s a code meant to keep people from dyeing rabbits and chicks at Easter. Read the full story here.

Do you think Douglas should be fined? Is this inhumane treatment? Or has the city and the local humane society gone too far?

2008-03-11T09:09:00.003-04:00

photo via design within reach

Canine Canteen

Spoil Fido with a picnic of his own, packed inside the durable Charlybox. Much like a canteen for campers, this simple design is a compact carrier for your pet’s food and water. Made of two halves, the Charlybox includes a two-liter canteen for fresh water, and two bowls for water and kibble. Snap the two halves together and set out for a day with your dog. When it’s time for a snack, separate the halves and fill one of the bowls with water from the canteen.

Available through Design within Reach right here.

2008-03-11T09:03:00.001-04:00

Popular Easter Lilies Potentially Fatal for Felines
ASPCA Offers Springtime Safety Tips for Pet Parents

As the last snow melts and spring showers give way to fragrant flowers, the ASPCA® (The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals®) reminds animal lovers and pet parents that one of the season's most popular plants, the Easter lily, can result in tragic consequences for our feline friends.

"All lilies belonging to the plant genus Lilium are considered highly toxic to cats," says Dr. Steven Hansen, board-certified veterinary toxicologist and director of the ASPCA's Animal Poison Control Center. "The consumption of small amounts can produce a life-threatening situation." According to Dr. Hansen, certain species of the daylily genus Hemerocallis are known to produce similar toxic effects.

Some examples of common lily varieties that are dangerous for cats include:

. Easter Lily
. Tiger Lily
. Rubrum Lily
. Japanese Show Lily
. Daylily (certain species)

Within only a few hours of ingestion, these plants may cause a cat to vomit, become lethargic or develop a lack of appetite. Without prompt and proper treatment by a veterinarian, a cat may develop kidney failure in 36 to 72 hours. "Time is of the essence for treatment," according to Dr. Louise Murray, Director of Medicine at the ASPCA Bergh Memorial Animal Hospital. "If an owner suspects that his or her cat may have ingested any part of a lily, he or she should seek medical care immediately."

The ASPCA also suggests leaving lilies out of Easter baskets or Mother's Day bouquets destined for homes with cats, or using safer flower varieties as a substitute. Safe alternatives include Easter orchids, cacti, and daisies, as well as roses and violets.

If your dog or cat accidentally ingests any potentially harmful flowers or plants, please call the ASPCA's Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435 or visit www.aspca.org/apcc. For more information on having a safe springtime season, please visit www.aspca.org.

About the ASPCA®
Founded in 1866, the ASPCA® (The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals®) was the first humane organization established in the Americas, and today has more than one million supporters throughout North America. A 501 [c] [3] not-for-profit corporation, the ASPCA's mission is to provide effective means for the prevention of cruelty to animals throughout the United States. The ASPCA provides local and national leadership in animal-assisted therapy, animal behavior, animal poison control, anti-cruelty, humane education, legislative services, and shelter outreach. The New York City headquarters houses a full-service, accredited, animal hospital, adoption center, and mobile clinic outreach program. The Humane Law Enforcement department enforces New York's animal cruelty laws and is featured on the reality television series "Animal Precinct" on Animal Planet. For more information, please visit www.aspca.org.

2008-03-06T11:30:00.002-05:00

The Importance of Micro-chipping Your Pet

Every pet owner has experienced a situation similar to the following: walking into your home/barn/backyard and your dearly loved pet is no where to be found. Hopefully, your pet is just hiding underneath the couch, but if the situation seems to be a bit more dire, Dr. Bonnie Beaver, a veterinarian at Texas A&M University College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, may have some helpful advice.

Pets are adventure seeking animals in general, so it is not surprising that from time to time pets wander away from their homes. This can be a traumatic experience for the pet owner, but micro-chipping can ensure that the pet is safely returned to the owner.

“Micro-chips are used as a way of identifying an animal; like a form of tattoo,” explains Beaver.

Microchips may be used on many different species of animals including dogs, cats, horses, goats, and cattle. According to Beaver, the micro-chip is a small pseudo-ceramic device that is about the size of a small grain of rice. The device is inserted into the animal via a large syringe.

“The procedure is relatively painless for most animals, and can likely be done at your local veterinarian’s office,” states Beaver.

Each micro-chip has a unique serial number, which can be retrieved with the use of a device. It is vastly important to register your pet’s unique micro-chip number with a national agency after the procedure has been completed. An ideal time to get the procedure done is when the pet is getting spayed or neutered, since the pet will already be under anesthesia.

“Two of more well known national agencies are Avid and Home Again,” said Beaver.

The pet owner can get the information about national registration from their local veterinarian’s office. All paper work must be completed and there is a small fee for the service.

Micro-chipping has not been proven to have any negative affects on the animal other than the small amount of pain the shot entails. The micro-chip can also be inserted at any age and can be used for the extent of the pets life.

How does the microchip work? When the pet decides to wander away from home, the pet may just wander into the hands of the animal shelter or a veterinarian’s office. Here, the pet can be scanned for its unique micro-chip number and the shelter or veterinarian will proceed to call the national agencies. If the owner has the pets’ micro-chip number, a positive identification can be made. The owner is then contacted and reunited with the wayward pet.

“It is extremely important that the pet’s micro-chip number be registered at the national level. If this is not done, there is no reason to have the pet micro-chipped in the first place, since no identification could be made by the micro-chip number alone,” states Beaver.

Micro-chipping has been proven to be extremely important especially during times of natural disaster. For example, hurricane Katrina caused many people to evacuate without much warning. Some pets were left behind or separated from their owners while being relocated; with the aide of pet micro-chipping and micro-chip registration at the national level, many of the pets were safely returned to their owners.

Pet Talk is a service of Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences.

2008-02-27T12:56:00.002-05:00

Augusta Lynx at South Carolina Stingrays
March 02, 2008 - 04:00 PM

HEROES NIGHT AT THE STINGRAYS GAME. JOIN EXCLUSIVELY BIMMERS AND HOSS THE DOG AS THEY THEY RAISE MONEY FOR EQUIPPING OUR HEROES FOUNDATION, an organization dedicated to equipping our firefighting heroes with lifesaving equipment and tools. Stop by and enjoy a good game and a good cause!

2008-02-21T08:08:00.002-05:00

Upcoming Events

2/23
9AM
Doggie Day at IOP Rec Center: Join area rescues and local dogs for a fun day of rescue awareness and friendly all breed canine competition. Rabies vaccinations and IOP dog tags will be on sale all day and the best in show competition begins at 11AM. Call 886-824 to register.

2/24
5-8PM
Charleston Animal Society Oyster Roast: Food and fun benefits the Charleston Animal Society (formally the John Ancrum SPCA) Call 747-4849 for more info and location.

lowcountry dog blog

About the ASPCA®

Augusta Lynx at South Carolina Stingrays March 02, 2008 - 04:00 PM

About the ASPCA^®

Augusta Lynx at South Carolina Stingrays
March 02, 2008 - 04:00 PM