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.
Tuesday, June 17, 2008
Wednesday, May 28, 2008
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.
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.
Friday, May 09, 2008
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
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.
“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
Tuesday, March 25, 2008
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.
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.
-------------------------------------------------------------
ABOUT PET TALK...
Pet Talk is a service of the College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University.
Wednesday, March 19, 2008
Amazing Short Film: Dog Years
Thanks to Dooce for turning me on to this. A heartbreakingly bittersweet little film. Enjoy.
Thanks to Dooce for turning me on to this. A heartbreakingly bittersweet little film. Enjoy.
Tuesday, March 11, 2008
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?
photo via design within reachSpoil 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.
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.
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.
Thursday, March 06, 2008
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.
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.
Wednesday, February 27, 2008
 |
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!
Thursday, February 21, 2008
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.
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.
Wednesday, February 20, 2008
GIANT GARAGE SALE
is being held this coming Saturday, February 23, from 8AM to 1PM at the Charleston Animal Society ( John Ancrum SPCA) 3861 Leeds Ave.
Everything must go including the kitchen sink. Crates, pens, single wide trailer, 2 small buildings with AC, bathroom and kitchen fixtures, refrigerators, freezers, washers and dryers, 48-5gallon buckets of semi-gloss paint, 10-80 pound bags of cement mix, fans, heaters, water-heater and a generator. Office furniture, wicker furniture, French doors and much much more.
Great prices and all the money will go to the homeless animals.
For more information about the merchandise and and a preview of things which need dismantling, please call 763-0364.
is being held this coming Saturday, February 23, from 8AM to 1PM at the Charleston Animal Society ( John Ancrum SPCA) 3861 Leeds Ave.
Everything must go including the kitchen sink. Crates, pens, single wide trailer, 2 small buildings with AC, bathroom and kitchen fixtures, refrigerators, freezers, washers and dryers, 48-5gallon buckets of semi-gloss paint, 10-80 pound bags of cement mix, fans, heaters, water-heater and a generator. Office furniture, wicker furniture, French doors and much much more.
Great prices and all the money will go to the homeless animals.
For more information about the merchandise and and a preview of things which need dismantling, please call 763-0364.
Monday, February 18, 2008
Give Your Pet a Peticure
It's absolutely horrific trying to clip my Great Dane's nails. She hates the process and does her best to squirm away (and at 130 pounds of muscle she usually succeeds). Her nails are so large and thick, it's difficult to cut them. I've heard that many pet parents use a rotary tool to file their dog's nails rather than cutting them. But the large drill and loud noise scares my dog as much as the nail trimmers do.
But I saw an infomercial on a product called Peticure, a rotary tool that is housed inside a protective covering that makes it seem less ominous. I wonder if it works. Have any of you tried it?
Find out more about the Peticure here.
Primary Season Heats Up as the ASPCA Seeks Nominations for 2008 Humane Awards
NEW YORK- As citizens across the country make their way to the polls during 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 will be accepted beginning April 1 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.
The ASPCA will begin accepting nominations via its Web site on April 1 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.
NEW YORK- As citizens across the country make their way to the polls during 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 will be accepted beginning April 1 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.
The ASPCA will begin accepting nominations via its Web site on April 1 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.
Friday, February 15, 2008
ASPCA Reminds Pet Parents: Protect Your Pet from Perilous Poisons
Animal Poison Control Center Updates Top Toxins for Pets, Tips to Keep Pets Safe
NEW YORK-Has your dog ever chomped on chocolate? Does your kitty like to snack on plants? In observance of National Poison Prevention Week (March 16 to March 22), the ASPCA® (The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals®) sheds light on the most common dangers pets may encounter, and offers helpful advice for poison-proofing your home.
"National Poison Prevention Week is an opportune time to educate pet owners about the many toxic substances that can harm our pets," said ASPCA President & CEO Ed Sayres. "Our animal companions depend on us to be informed and protect them from danger."
In 2007, the ASPCA's Animal Poison Control Center (APCC) in Urbana, Ill. managed more than 130,000 cases. The public utilized the APCC's 24-hour hotline with emergency and non-emergency inquiries alike. Last year, the Center also played a critical role in keeping pet parents, veterinarians, and the American public accurately informed during last year's pet food recall crisis, which began in March and lasted several months.
The top calls of 2007 involved the following common household goods and products:
1. Just Say No to Drugs: With a whopping 89,000 calls related to the unhappy combination of pets and medications such as painkillers, cold and flu preparations and antidepressants, the ASPCA cautions pet owners to never give their four-legged family members any type of medication without first talking with a veterinarian. Both prescription and over-the-counter drugs-whether for humans or pets--should be kept out of reach, preferably in closed cabinets above countertops.
2. Bugged out: In the effort to battle home invasions by unwelcome pests, our furry friends could be unintentionally put at risk from certain insecticides. In fact, more than 26,000 calls to the Center pertained to insect control products such as flea and tick preparations, insect baits and spray killers. "A key factor in the safe use of products that eliminate fleas, ticks and other pesky bugs is reading and following label instructions exactly," said Dr. Steven Hansen, board-certified veterinary toxicologist and director of the APCC. "Some species of animals can be particularly sensitive to certain types of insecticides, so it is vital that you never use any product not specifically formulated for your pet." It is also a good idea to consult with your pet's veterinarian before beginning any flea and tick control program.
3. Don't Eat the Daisies: In 2007, common household plants such as lilies, azaleas and kalanchoe, were the subject of more than 8,000 calls to the poison center. Other varieties that can be harmful to pets include rhododendron, sago palm, and schefflera. "Just one or two sago palm nuts can cause vomiting, diarrhea, depression, seizures and even liver failure," said Dr. Hansen. "Also, lilies are highly toxic to cats - even in small amounts they can produce life-threatening kidney failure."
4. Don't Take the Bait: Insects are not the only critters that can invade our dwellings -so can mice, rats and other rodents. But before you rush out to buy a chemical bait product, it is important to be aware of the risks they can pose to your pet - last year, the Center handled approximately 7,600 queries about these baits. "Some baits contain inactive ingredients meant to attract rodents, which can be attractive to pets as well," said Dr. Hansen. "That's why it's so important, when using any rodenticide, to place the product in areas that are completely inaccessible to companion animals."
5. Mind the Mop: While many cleaning products can be used safely in homes where pets reside, it is still important to take the necessary precautions to protect furry family members from accidental overexposures to common agents such as bleaches, detergents and disinfectants. In 2007, the Center assisted 7,200 callers with concerns involving common household cleaners. Gastrointestinal distress and irritation to the skin, eyes or respiratory tract may be possible if a curious animal has an inappropriate encounter with such products. "All household cleaners and other chemicals should be stored in a secure location well out of the reach of pets," recommended Dr. Hansen. "As with any product, it is extremely important to read and follow all label directions before use."
Established in 1978, the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center is the only 24-hour, 365-day facility of its kind staffed by 30 veterinarians, 12 of who are board-certified toxicologists/veterinary toxicologists. Located in Urbana, Ill., the specially trained staff provides assistance to pet owners, and specific diagnostic and treatment recommendations to veterinarians pertaining to toxic chemicals and dangerous plants, products or substances. The Center also provides extensive veterinary toxicology consulting on a wide array of subjects, including legal cases, formulation issues, product liability, and regulatory reporting. For more information on potentially dangerous substances in the home or to reach the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, please call (888) 426-4435 or visit www.aspca.org/apcc.
Tuesday, February 12, 2008
photo via Rawle MurdyCharleston Animal Society Presidential Race Gets National Press
Read all about it in the New York Times here.
My Funny Valentine
Here's some quirky toys you can give the true love of your life for Valentine's. Dogdiva Chocolates and the Casanova Toy Set.
photo via associated pressFrom Gun-Toting to Dog Showing
Far, far removed from the days when her image as a machine gun-toting revolutionary captivated a nation, Patricia Shaw Hearst was in more genteel surroundings Monday. She was tending to Diva, her French Bulldog who just happens to be this year's Westminster Best of Opposite Sex in the Frenchie category.
We think this is a much better way for the granddaughter of William Randolph Hearst to wind up in the press. Read the full article here.
Monday, February 11, 2008
Pet Talk: Say AAAARF! February is National Veterinary Dental Health Month
We all know the importance of healthy dental habits for ourselves and our families, but what about dental health for our pets? How many whitening strips, mouth washes, pulsating toothbrushes and boxes of dental floss do you have in your medicine cabinet? Many pet owners overlook the value of such healthcare in their furry friends, leaving them susceptible to numerous health problems that could be easily prevented. February is National Veterinary Dental Health Month - a perfect time to take a closer look at the implications of neglecting proper dental care in your pet.
Proper dental health can solve much more than bad breath. The Academy of Veterinary Dentistry was established in 1987 and has dedicated their efforts to education on proper veterinary dental care. Many health problems can be prevented through simple dental care practices by veterinarians, but more immediately, by pet-owners.
The mouth is the gateway to health. If problems arise in the mouth, they can possibly be transferred via the circulatory system to cause more serious problems in vital organs. According to Dr. J.R. “Bert” Dodd, clinical associate professor and veterinary dentist at the College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences at Texas A&M University, the mouth can be a source of infection in joints, lungs, the heart and liver. Bacteria are released into the bloodstream every time a pet chews or plays with toys.
“Dental disease can contribute to generalized systemic disease in veterinary patients - it’s not merely a localized or cosmetic problem,” says Dodd. “In fact, dental disease is the No. 1 disease entity affecting adult pets.”
In a study done by the American Veterinary Dental Society, more than 80% of dogs and 70% of cats develop some degree of periodontal disease by three years of age. This may include gingivitis, periodontal infections, malocclusions, fractured teeth, oral tumors or painful cavity-like lesions. Dr. Dodd explains that periodontal disease is a disease of neglect and that almost 95% of the cases he sees at the Texas A&M University Small Animal Hospital are cases of periodontal disease.
Semi-annual exams, an annual professional cleaning, appropriate use of chew toys, water additives and treats are all vital parts of a healthy dental regimen. For those pets already experiencing periodontal disease, a cleaning every 4-6 months is necessary. Dr. Dodd also explained that pets can easily be trained to have their teeth brushed by their owners and this activity should be a part of an animal’s overall healthcare program.
Pet owners should work closely with their veterinarians to ensure that pets are receiving appropriate dental care. It is imperative that pet owners know what “normal” is. This allows owners to more easily identify when problems arise.
When inspecting their pet’s teeth and mouths, owners should look for broken teeth, bad breath, loose or discolored teeth, tarter/calculus build-up, pawing of the face, jaw quiver, dropping of food during mastication, avoidance of feed though desired and any change in preference for foodstuffs. A hands-on approach by pet owners is vital in preventing periodontal disease and other, more serious complications.
As human healthcare and dentistry has improved through further research and advancements in technology, so has veterinary dentistry. But just like human dental care, the simplest and most effective treatment is still prevention. So show your pet some love this February and make sure that you are educated on proper care of your pet’s pearly-whites, it could save his life.
Pet Talk is a service of the Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences. Suggestions for future topics may be sent to editor@cvm.tamu.edu.
We all know the importance of healthy dental habits for ourselves and our families, but what about dental health for our pets? How many whitening strips, mouth washes, pulsating toothbrushes and boxes of dental floss do you have in your medicine cabinet? Many pet owners overlook the value of such healthcare in their furry friends, leaving them susceptible to numerous health problems that could be easily prevented. February is National Veterinary Dental Health Month - a perfect time to take a closer look at the implications of neglecting proper dental care in your pet.
Proper dental health can solve much more than bad breath. The Academy of Veterinary Dentistry was established in 1987 and has dedicated their efforts to education on proper veterinary dental care. Many health problems can be prevented through simple dental care practices by veterinarians, but more immediately, by pet-owners.
The mouth is the gateway to health. If problems arise in the mouth, they can possibly be transferred via the circulatory system to cause more serious problems in vital organs. According to Dr. J.R. “Bert” Dodd, clinical associate professor and veterinary dentist at the College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences at Texas A&M University, the mouth can be a source of infection in joints, lungs, the heart and liver. Bacteria are released into the bloodstream every time a pet chews or plays with toys.
“Dental disease can contribute to generalized systemic disease in veterinary patients - it’s not merely a localized or cosmetic problem,” says Dodd. “In fact, dental disease is the No. 1 disease entity affecting adult pets.”
In a study done by the American Veterinary Dental Society, more than 80% of dogs and 70% of cats develop some degree of periodontal disease by three years of age. This may include gingivitis, periodontal infections, malocclusions, fractured teeth, oral tumors or painful cavity-like lesions. Dr. Dodd explains that periodontal disease is a disease of neglect and that almost 95% of the cases he sees at the Texas A&M University Small Animal Hospital are cases of periodontal disease.
Semi-annual exams, an annual professional cleaning, appropriate use of chew toys, water additives and treats are all vital parts of a healthy dental regimen. For those pets already experiencing periodontal disease, a cleaning every 4-6 months is necessary. Dr. Dodd also explained that pets can easily be trained to have their teeth brushed by their owners and this activity should be a part of an animal’s overall healthcare program.
Pet owners should work closely with their veterinarians to ensure that pets are receiving appropriate dental care. It is imperative that pet owners know what “normal” is. This allows owners to more easily identify when problems arise.
When inspecting their pet’s teeth and mouths, owners should look for broken teeth, bad breath, loose or discolored teeth, tarter/calculus build-up, pawing of the face, jaw quiver, dropping of food during mastication, avoidance of feed though desired and any change in preference for foodstuffs. A hands-on approach by pet owners is vital in preventing periodontal disease and other, more serious complications.
As human healthcare and dentistry has improved through further research and advancements in technology, so has veterinary dentistry. But just like human dental care, the simplest and most effective treatment is still prevention. So show your pet some love this February and make sure that you are educated on proper care of your pet’s pearly-whites, it could save his life.
Pet Talk is a service of the Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences. Suggestions for future topics may be sent to editor@cvm.tamu.edu.
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