Good Golly Ms. Molly

My husband and I were heart broken after our Dachshund Bart passed away. He was 16 and spent his last 1 1/2 years in a wheelchair. After his injury he was such a champ & developed quite a following in our area. We loved and cared for him best we could but it was such hard work. So after he passed, we decided to take a long break before getting a dog again. But I couldn't help looking on petfinder at every chance, and THERE SHE WAS !

Ms. Molly was a Wirehair Dachsund just like our Bart. She had the saddest eyes. She was 250 miles away in N.J. But we called anyway. The organization that had her usually didn't send dogs so far away, but they knew someone near us involved in rescue work. And that person remembered us and our Bart from the Vet office. We were so lucky. Everything magically fell in place and Ms Molly really needed us. She'd been a backyard breeder kept in an airline crate, in a shed with no windows, no heat & no air conditioning.

She is the sweetest girl in the world and now has the happiest eyes. We think she is our gift from heaven for all the hard work we did in caring for Bart.

Cindy McEvoy
Mifflinburg, PA

Let's help deny Michael Vick the Ed Block Courage Award

I received this email hours after publishing the preceding post which is a reprint of a column which appeared in the Philadelphia Inquirer protesting the bequething of the Ed Block Courage Award to Michael Vick by his Philadelphia Eagle teammates. Maria has given us the opportunity to perhaps reverse this injustice. Be sure to read the previous post to get your adrenalin flowing, and then visit the Web site referred to in Maria's email below and send your protest letter to Sam Lamantia, CEO of the Ed Block Courage Award. Many thanks to Maria for her efforts in helping to right this wrong.

Hey Bob,

My name is Maria and I am the Outreach & Communications Coordinator at Change.org. One of our community members recently started a great petition targeting Sam Lamantia, the CEO of the Ed Block Courage Award Foundation, asking him to deny Michael Vick the Ed Block Courage Award. In just a few days, the petition has already garnered nearly 1,000 signatures:

http://animalrights.change.org/actions/view/petition_against_awarding_michael_vick_the_ed_block_courage_award

I saw your recent post (see previous post below) on this topic, and I thought you might be interested in helping us spread the word by posting the petition along with your blog entry.

Thank you for your help and please let me know if you have any questions!

Thanks,
Maria

-- Maria Tchijov, Outreach & Communications Coordinator, Change.org
(415) 997-9319
maria@change.org

Reprinted from The Philadelphia Inquirer. December 24, 2009 edition

Vick's not right pick for award in courage

By Phil Sheridan
Inquirer Sports Columnist

Richard Collier was a 26-year-old left tackle for the Jacksonville Jaguars when he was the victim of a drive-by shooting last year. The 14 gunshot wounds left Collier paralyzed and cost him one of his legs. He went from prime-of-life athlete to wheelchair-bound crime victim in one awful moment.

His Jaguars teammates acknowledged Collier's will to survive by voting him winner of their Ed Block Courage Award.

The Chicago Bears elected defensive lineman Israel Idonije, whose foundation focuses on promoting education and staying in school for at-risk youths, and who traveled to Africa two years in a row to provide college scholarships.

Here's what Idonije said about the award: "It's an honor. I've been fortunate to receive it, but there are a lot of people that come together to make all the good stuff happen within the community."

The Cleveland Browns chose wide receiver Mike Furrey because of his extensive community work. Furrey, too, was humbled and gave credit to the many less-heralded people whose selflessness isn't recognized.

"I don't think it's something I deserve," Furrey said.

Yesterday, the Eagles announced that they had voted the annual team award to backup quarterback Michael Vick. Here's what Vick had to say: "I've had to overcome a lot, probably more than one single individual can handle or can bear. You take a look at what I've been through, you ask certain people to walk in my shoes, they probably couldn't do it. Probably 95 percent of the people in this world - because nobody had to endure what I've been through, situations I've been put in, situations I've placed myself in."

After serving under Gen. George S. Patton in World War II (and receiving a Purple Heart for being wounded), Ed Block became the athletic trainer for the old Baltimore Colts franchise. He advocated for education and certification among trainers, and he donated his knowledge and expertise to help disabled children.

The Courage awards have been given to a player from each NFL team for a quarter-century. They are often given to players who return from serious injuries - Correll Buckhalter was the Eagles' recipient a couple of years ago - or who have had to overcome personal tragedies or obstacles. Last year, Eagles players voted for long-snapper Jon Dorenbos, whose mother was murdered by his father when he was 12 years old. According to the Ed Block Foundation Web site (edblock.org), the awards are meant to recognize courage, commitment to sportsmanship, and community service.

Let's be clear here. The foundation doesn't choose the award winners. The NFL has nothing to do with it. The Eagles' front office and coaching staff does not nominate or choose the winner.

The trainers have no say.

It is the players who vote, and the Eagles players selected Michael Vick.

Not Jeremiah Trotter, who came out of retirement, accepted whatever role the coaches gave him and worked his way back into the starting lineup.

Not Todd Herremans, who has played remarkably at both guard and left tackle after being forced to use a little cart under his left leg after knee surgery in September.

Not Brian Westbrook, who had surgeries on his knee and ankle in the off-season and is trying to return after two concussions in one month.

Not Antonio Dixon, a long-shot undrafted free agent defensive lineman who was homeless as a child.

No. The Eagles chose to recognize Vick for "what he's been through," as head coach Andy Reid put it.

And, hey, Vick has been through a lot. He was identified early as a remarkably gifted athlete and treated special throughout his high school years. He was handed a full scholarship to Virginia Tech. After playing just two years there, he was taken with the very first pick in the 2000 NFL draft.

The Atlanta Falcons gave him a six-year, $62 million contract before he ever played a down for them. They tore that up four years later and gave him what was the biggest deal in NFL history at the time: $130 million, including $37 million in bonuses, over 10 years.

Vick overcame all of this privilege and good fortune, winding up bankrupt and incarcerated in federal prison after running an ongoing illegal dogfighting operation. He has since demonstrated the courage to accept a million dollars from the Eagles in an effort to rehab his image and resurrect his very lucrative career.

There are those who think Vick deserves this second chance and those who think his brutal actions should make him a pariah. It's hard to believe anyone thinks he deserves an award for courage or character.

"I don't expect everyone to understand," Reid said.

The shame of it is that Ed Block isn't around any more. It would be entertaining to watch Reid and Vick and Donovan McNabb and the rest of them explain this to him.

Contact columnist Phil Sheridan at 215-854-2844 or psheridan@phillynews.com. Read his recent work at http://go.philly.com/philsheridan.

If you would like to help get this award denied to Michael Vick, visit this post:

http://butdogsrpeople2.blogspot.com/2009/12/lets-help-deny-michael-vick-ed-block.html

The Story of "Abena": From the Streets to Spokes-Doggy

She came from a nightmare life on the streets of Taiwan. Abena spent her first few years not owned by anyone, surrounded by those who put no value on her life; often kicked and screamed at as a "pest," scrounging for what little food she could find. Finally, she was tricked into eating a firecracker, which resulted in injuries so severe that she would have died if a kind man hadn't alerted a Taiwanese rescue group to her whereabouts.

After three reconstructive surgeries, she looked like a different dog, and was ready to try to find a forever home that could understand about her unique medical needs and her shyness. She ended up in the United States at The Big Dog Project Rescue in Silverdale, Washington. Her soon-to-be adoptive mom saw her on petfinder.com and knew Abena was the one for her family!

Three months later, The Big Project received two more Taiwanese mouth-injury dogs, Amber and Mico, both missing parts of their jaws due to cruelty. Abena's new mom took them, too! Now these three once-desperate girls, along with their American sister Tika, go around to schools and give presentations to children about making positive differences in the world around them. They have become spokes-doggies for kindness, patience, and spreading love -- which is a long way from where they came from.

Abena's owner is a beacon of hope for all of us who aim to make a difference in the life of shelter animals. We applaud her, the work that she has done, and the continued spirit of kindness she spreads to our younger generations.

From: The Big Dog Project Rescue
Jennifer Morris Silverdale, WA

 

Iraq dogs saved by my son

Daisy and Roxie are now in the process of coming home to us from Basrah Iraq Our son is serving in Iraq and the SPCA will bring these two furr balls home for him. We are expecting them to be here some time this march and are very excited to get them into our family. Our Son says that we will really love them because they want to lick the face off of you. since they will be here before he is we will have to help these two adjust to three square meals a day and a roof over their head but that should not take very long. A real Big Hurray to the SPCA for doing this for our service men and women. They are rescuing at least 6 dogs from this group alone and this is only one group.

Bill Dixon

Central Square, NY

Holiday Etiquette for Dogs - What's Proper? What's Not?

You hear the word "etiquette" all the time. You know it means the proper way to do things socially. I had to look it up on Wikipedia.com just for the heck of it. Their definition reads: "Etiquette is the code that governs the expectations of social behavior, the conventional norm. Etiquette usually reflects formulas of conduct in which society and tradition have invested."

But what about DOG etiquette? What is proper or expected? What is considered "socially acceptable" for dogs? For example, is it better to leave your dog at home? How do you prepare for a visit? What are tips to deal with the ride? If you are taking a pet with you, what do you do when you arrive?

I have a great article that will help answer those questions and help you to prepare your dog for the holidays! For some great tips, go to: Dog Etiquette for the Holidays

Dr. Jon

The above was reprinted without permission but with the hope I don't get sued from Dr. Jon's Dog Crazy Newsletter.

The dog from Main St.

Her name is Ginger now. One month ago she was bouncing between lanes of a busy street in Springfield Or. Trucks honking at her and car's squealing brakes. This is what she did everyday for months. I can't believe she hadn't been hit. The day I saw her I almost hit her. Amidst angry motorists I made it off the street. I tried coaxing her to me but she ran off. I checked the local business and they didn't know where she came from. Animal Control and Police had given up.

She wasn't skinny as so many lonely dogs and cats are, she was a heavy weight. It seems that the local business's were leaving delightful food items out for her. A kind lady tried coaxing her into the building, but she was street wise, so to speak.

I got a live animal trap and set it out with a pile of burger and meatballs. The next day the call came, "She's in the trap!" I got her and the trap into my garage and covered it with a blanket. It took this scared lady 3 days to finally inch her way out to eat and urinate. I have had luck with dog whisper techniques so when she finally came out we kept on going...right on into the house and into our established pack. She became Ginger and from then on she has bonded to my other 2 rescues, Buddy, an unwanted lop eared Border Collie and a sweet Border Collie, Elle.

Thanks to them Ginger was able to learn basic commands. Ginger made it off of Main St. and into my heart. It's time for her to move on to her forever home. She is listed on Petfinder and she will be a wonderful addition to a lucky family.

Robyn Broadbent

Springfield, OR

ASCPA operates solely on individual contributors

Thanks to supporters to the ASCPA, 2009 was the best year on record for the tens of thousands of animals nationwide who were touched by your generosity. Each time a contribution is made to the ASPCA, the donator helps homeless, abused or neglected pets in every state. Here are some of the ways support from our kind contributors made a difference in 2009:

• Contributions were essential in helping us award nearly 550 grants to shelters, rescues and animal welfare organizations to fund large-scale seizures of animals, disaster recovery and preparedness, and general shelter outreach like spay/neuter programs, adoptions and staff training.
  
• Contributions allowed the ASPCA to be on the ground in communities nationwide, rescuing animals from both natural and man-made disasters—including puppy mill raids, animal hoarding situations, dog fighting operations and other animal cruelty emergencies.
  
• Contributions helped us tackle pet overpopulation and take a giant leap forward in our campaign to promote spay/neuter solutions and create a nation of humane communities, where no adoptable animal is euthanized simply because of a lack of resources.
  

Read our complete overview of how our contributors' dollars are hard at work every day, saving animals’ lives. Thank you for considering supporting the ASPCA and our nation’s animals in 2010!

Always remember to Make Pet Adoption Your First Option®!ASPCA 424 E. 92nd St New York, NY 10128

Rescue me, rescue you

This is Baby-Girl. She was a birthday present to me when she was 3 mos. old. Some dear friends who had too many pit bulls already needed this sweet girl gone because their dogs wouldn't take another female in the house. She had come from California, by way of an over the fence rescue: They swiped her from a yard where she was tethered to a big chain in the sun, with no water, food or shade. The alternative was a shelter.

She became road-buddy to me, as we made our way across the US by way of my thumb in the air. We've lived on ranches, (where she picked up the art of cattle dog), in tents, cars, and fancy homes. She is coyote killer, rabbit hunter, listener and friend. She is dancer with horses, momma with baby animals, and goofball with her friends. She is what Dog was meant to be.

She just turned 10 this year, and though her joints slow her down a bit, that pitty smile is always waiting for me when I get home. I settled down, got married, and am raising my daughter with this wonderful creature always wanting a space on the couch. I tear up just to think of all the adventures and miles this dog and I have shared. It's nice to know she can retire in comfort, like an old dog should.

Rose Coffman
Lakewood, CO

Cutest Dog Ever!

This is Pippin. Pippin comes from Louisiana and now lives with me in Southern Ontario Canada. His parents were Huricane Katrina survivors and he was born at the rescue centre. I do a lot of volunteer work for our local Humane Society and went out to help walk the dogs brought up from Louisiana. I had no intention of going home with one that day, and when my shift was over, I even got in my car and started to pull out of the parking lot.

I shut off my engine and went back to get him. How could I resist that adorable face and those huge ears. He's been a great addition to my family and I am forever grateful to all of the wonderful rescue organizations out there. If you're looking for a pet, please go check out some shelters. There are many great dogs looking for a great home!

Taya Welland
ON, Canada

Get active for animals in 2010 - A message from the ASCPA

The holidays are just around the corner, and we at the ASPCA would like to take a moment to express our heartfelt gratitude for your continued support. In 2009, the ASPCA was at the forefront of powerful efforts to rescue animals from abuse, pass humane legislation and share resources with shelters nationwide. As you know, it’s only with the strong commitment of compassionate supporters like you that we can achieve far-reaching and long-lasting progress in animal welfare. But our work is far from over—we still need your help. As the new year marches toward us, here are some more ways to lend a hand to animals in need.

Shop Your Favorite Stores Online This holiday, shop online at We-Care.com, and a portion of your gift purchases will be donated to the ASPCA. Or check out the ASPCA Online Store, where all your hard-earned cash will go directly to support our life-saving programs.

“Regift the Fruitcake!” Bake a virtual fruitcake and send it off to your friends and family for a creative way to help raise funds for your charity of choice—the ASPCA, of course! Surprise Loved Ones with an Honor Gift The ASPCA Holiday Honor Gift is a wonderful way to celebrate—and give the gift of life for animals in need!

It’s not just for December, either; you can give birthday or wedding honor gifts all year long. Volunteer for Animals in Your Community Bring some holiday cheer to homeless animals in your community by volunteering at a local shelter or educating the public on animal welfare issues. Visit ASPCA.org for a complete list of ways to support the ASPCA and our nation’s animals in 2010.

Always remember to Make Pet Adoption Your First Option®!ASPCA 424 E. 92nd St New York, NY 10128Visit our website: aspca.org unsubscribe or change your email preferences

Roscoe's Story

Roscoe, a large muscular pit bull, was brought to the Clatsop County Oregon Animal Shelter from the Oregon Humane Society in Portland. Although Roscoe was a favorite of the OHS staff, he was not getting adopted and they didn't want to euthanize him. OHS sent Roscoe to our shelter with all of his toys, which he kept in perfect condition -- not a chewed-up one in the bunch. He would sit in his kennel surrounded by his toys.

And sit he did -- for months on end. He arrived at the shelter in January 2009 and was finally adopted in May. Because he was much loved by the shelter staff and volunteers, the day he left the shelter was a very happy one for everybody and there were pictures and maybe a few tears. But the happiness was short-lived and he was returned a few months later because he played too hard with children and had some food issues with the other dog in the household.

So Roscoe again sat in his kennel surrounded by his toys and getting more depressed every day. Then, a young woman who had just moved to town and purchased a home decided she needed a critter to keep her company. She played with several of the dogs, but was drawn to Roscoe, who was in front with the office staff for the day. Two weeks later she took Roscoe home.

Roscoe now his has own bed, toys, and fenced yard plus a human friend who loves him very much. Good things come to those who wait. Roscoe is one of the lucky ones who, without the kindness and patience of staff and volunteers at two shelters, would have become an unhappy statistic.

Marcy Dunning
Astoria, OR

A Banner Year for the ASCPA!

In 2009, ASPCA supporters like you made a world of difference for animals throughout the country. Together, we shared our anti-cruelty message with countless pet-passionate people—and lawmakers noticed. With the help of our more than 1.4 million Advocacy Brigade members, the ASPCA fought for and celebrated major legislative victories for both companion and farm animals.Whether you wrote letters to your legislators to express concern about a federal or state bill, signed up for ASPCA Advocacy text messages to keep abreast of important legislative alerts or simply spread the word about our efforts to friends and family, the ASPCA appreciates your determination to make our world a better place for all living beings. Read on to learn more about some of 2009’s brand new laws—laws that you helped pass!

Sweet Girl would not leave her friend!

My son came home one day in 2008 talking about a couple of puppies that had been dumped between our house and his girlfriend's house. One of the puppies had been hit and killed by a car and the other one would not leave its friends side. We were supposed to have our first freeze of the year that night and he was worried the puppy would be cold. When he told us the story, we knew we had to give the puppy a home. Sandy (named because my son's girlfriend was playing Annie in her school play at the time) was happy to see my son and his girlfriend and did not hesitate to get into the truck with them. We wonder every day how someone could have dumped such as sweet little puppy. We are glad to have her as part of our family now.

Jennifer

Scurry, TX

Samlilah

I rescued Samson (on the right) and Delilah from a shelter as 9 week old puppies in Atlanta, Georgia. I initially was looking for one puppy, but as I was walking around with the female, this sweet-faced boy was just sitting in his crate looking very sad. I just couldn't leave him - especially after I found out they were litter mates. Now, over 10 years later, they are the sweetest, most well-behaved dogs in the world! Even non-dog lovers fall in love with them! You never see one without the other - in fun, we even call them by one name: Samlilah!!

Kathi Washington
St. Louis, MO

My Beloved Samba

I adopted Samba at age 5 in 2000 from the Scottsville Animal Shelter outside of Rochester, NY. She was very shy at first and scarred inside and out. Abused for years by her drug-dealing owners it took some time for us to truly bond. She never got over her fear of men though.

She lived with me for 9 years and we were rarely separated. From the first she was an all-around, well behaved dog. We took long walks every day until my arthritis forced me to fence in my yard and let her have the run of the background which she enjoyed and "kept watch" over. It was amazing how well she knew me and when I was feeling down.

She saved my life and the life of my best friend one wintry day when we were on the road to a friend's house. The roads were icy and just before we surely would have collided head-on with a truck that had spun out of control and crossed the median, she started fussing and whining from the back seat. I slowed down and started to pull over when we saw the truck loose it and end up in snow bank right in front of us. If I hadn't slowed down when I did, we would have crashed no doubt about it!!

Earlier this year I had the very difficult and sad decision to put her down. She was not well and, although I had already spent thousands on vet bills, I knew she would not have wanted to go through more suffering. I kept some of her fur in a locket I always wear and her ashes have a special shelf in my house.

She is still always with me and I love her.

Debby
Rochester, NY

Easy Tips for a Pet-Safe Holiday Season

There’s nothing more scrumptious than gathering with friends and family for the holidays, but many of the ingredients in human fun can result in distress for pets. As we kick off this season of lights, parties and yummy treats, the ASPCA wants to remind pet parents of the potential hazards certain goodies and décor can pose to our furry friends. “As you prepare for your holiday celebrations,” says Dr. Steven Hansen, Senior Vice President of ASPCA Animal Health Services, “remember to be wary of foods and traditions that can bring potential dangers to companion animals.”

In honor of the joyous season to come, ASPCA poison control experts offer these essential tips for having pets at the party in a safe way:

Avoid Too Much of a Good Thing

While the holidays are a time for giving, there are some foods you should not share with your furry friends. A taste of mashed potato or a lick of pumpkin pie shouldn’t pose a problem. However, alcoholic beverages, coffee, onions, fatty foods, yeast dough and macadamia nuts can all lead to stomach upset, diarrhea or even worse—an inflammatory condition of the pancreas known as pancreatitis. A special no-no is chocolate, which if ingested can lead to death. And you may want to skip sharing the turkey—poultry bones can splinter and cause blockages.

Put the Meds Away

One of the most common holiday-related emergencies is the consumption of human pharmaceuticals. Make sure all your medications are securely locked away, and be sure to tell your guests to keep their meds zipped up and packed away, too.

That Holiday Glow

When you leave the room, put the candles out! Animals can easily knock lit candles over, causing a fire, and curious cats are particularly at risk of getting burned by candle flames. Also, be sure to use appropriate candle holders, placed on stable surfaces.

Decorations Can Be Dangerous

Holiday decorations such as breakable ornaments, string, ribbon and dreidels should be kept out of paws’ reach. These traditional decorations can cause choking or severe intestinal problems if swallowed. All holiday light strands, loose wires and electric cords can also pose serious dangers to your pet, especially puppies, who may chew on them.

Go Tinsel-less

Kitties love this sparkly, light-catching “toy” that’s easy to bat around and carry in their mouths. But a nibble can lead to a swallow, which can lead to an obstructed digestive tract, severe vomiting, dehydration and possible surgery. It’s best to brighten your boughs with something other than tinsel.

Forgo the Flowers

Be careful with holiday floral arrangements. Lilies are commonly used this time of year and all varieties, including Tiger, Asian, Japanese Show, Stargazer and Casa Blanca can cause kidney failure in cats. In addition, common Yuletide plants such as mistletoe and holly berries can be potentially toxic to pets. Holly, when ingested, can cause pets to suffer nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. Mistletoe can cause gastrointestinal upset and cardiovascular problems. Safe alternatives include artificial flowers made from silk or plastic.

Oh, Christmas Tree

Cats often see trees as fabulous climbing posts. Be sure to securely anchor your tree so it doesn’t tip and fall, causing possible injury to your pet. Also keep in mind that tree water may contain fertilizers that can cause stomach upset if ingested. Stagnant tree water can also act as a breeding ground for bacteria, and, if ingested, a pet may suffer nausea, vomiting and diarrhea.

New Year’s Noise

As you count down to the New Year, be alert to any pet hazards such as noise-makers and confetti. Noise-makers can frighten your pets, causing them to bolt out an open door or window. Confetti, if ingested, can wreak havoc on the digestive tract.

Holiday Travel

Before traveling with your pets by car or plane, make sure they have all the required vaccinations and are wearing identification tags or are microchipped. If you're traveling by car, be sure to secure your pet safely with a seatbelt harness, crate or barrier and make frequent stops, allowing pets time to exercise and relieve themselves.

If your dog or cat accidentally ingests any potentially harmful products and you need emergency advice, please consult your veterinarian or the ASPCA’s Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435 (a fee applies) or http://www.aspca.org/pet-care/poison-control/

The Irish twins

We had just lost our beloved beagle in spring 2006 when a friend wrote to me about a litter of puppies at a shelter outside Dublin. The mother had been rescued from teens who were trying to drown her, and her puppies were born within ten minutes of her arrival at the shelter. The lady who ran the shelter drove a hard bargain: She wouldn't send a lone puppy all the way to Sweden, but she would send two. Three years later, our "twins" are our pride and joy: loving, intelligent and fun. We can't imagine life without them!

Jennifer Evans

Tranås, Sweden

Our Unexpected Husky

This is Cherry, a puppy that came into our lives by accident this summer. My wife and I were driving deep in the heart of the Cherokee National Forest when we spotted a "coyote" in the weeds. We slowed for a better look and only when we were closer did we realize the coyote was actually a puppy. We stopped to see what she was doing, miles from the nearest house, and she approached us. She was skinny as could be, and very timid. As we talked with her another Husky puppy came out of the woods and timidly approached us.

The second puppy was just as skinny but black in color and not as comfortable coming close to us. As we pet and talked to the two emaciated and sickly looking puppies a third came from the woods, even skinnier and in obviously worse health than the other two. This one, a red Husky, lay on her side at the feet of my wife and was obviously the sickliest of the three. Her breathing was labored and her eyes were cloudy, on the verge of death from malnourishment.

After giving the puppies some water we loaded all three into the car and drove back toward civilization to see if we could find homes for these precious little girls. All three puppies were dehydrated, infested with fleas and worms and all three had severe coccidia, but they were successfully nursed back to health. The Veterinarian later informed us that the red puppy was within days, if not hours, of death from malnourishment.

The black and red puppies went to a local Husky rescue but Cherry stayed with us and we love her. I've since been in touch with the Husky rescue and they have found homes for the other two.

Joe Pollick, Kingsport, TN

Jada, My Best Friend!

My husband found an abandoned and terribly sick puppy on the side of the road as he was coming home from work one night. She looked to be about 7 weeks old, starved and shaking with fear. We debated on what to do with her, thinking we cannot possibly house another animal, as we already had 6 dogs. But when she looked up at us with those beautiful green eyes, that's all it took, she had us hooked. We immediately named her Jada as representation of those beautiful jade-green eyes. Although they turned brown a few weeks later, the name stuck. For 2 months, my husband took Jada to the vet for weekly treatments for worms and mange. She has grown to be so beautiful, so sweet, so loyal, very smart, but most of all, my best friend. She has so much love to give, and I feel so lucky to have her. She has gone to work with my husband everyday since the day we got her. I always joke and say, "Who'd of ever thought this homeless, mangy, stray dog would someday have a full-time job?" And this is my rescue story of my best friend, Jada.

Dianne

Brandon, MS

Delaware County SPCA Stray becomes Therapy Dog

Ginger, an American Pit Bull Terrier came into the Delaware county SPCA in May of 2007 as a stray. With her sweet and loving personality she quickly became a favorite of the staff. Hanging out in the office with staff to socialize her and rehabilitate her. She came in as an over bred, emaciated dog that had patches of fur missing on her back. Roland Rivera began working at the shelter in June of the same year, and on his first day he meet Ginger, he had no prior interaction with Pit Bulls prior to working at the SPCA and only heard the negativity surrounding the breed, but still became very interested in Ginger.

She was a shelter favorite who always responded to the staff, she became attached to Roland and taught him that her breed deserves a chance just as every other. In August of 2007, Roland adopted Ginger, he and his girlfriend Krystina who also works at the shelter, brought Ginger back to health and socialized her.

In January of this year, Roland took her on an interview for a volunteer position at Bryn Mawr Hospital to be a therapy dog. A therapy dog helps a patient speed up his or her recovery process simply through the interaction of petting, which truly displays the positive affect animals have on humans. Ginger passed the interview with flying colors and started on January 21st. “Though Ginger has a small fan club at the hospital, people still do have negative words to say about her because of her breed. It is my goal to represent Ginger as a positive role model of the breed and prove that Pit Bulls can be just as great of a dog as any other breed” say Rivera.

“We knew Ginger was special from the beginning, she would just want to jump up in your lap and curl up and be loved. She quickly learned commands and was very calm and quiet. We are thrilled to have one of our Alumni, become a Therapy Dog, especially this breed” says Fran Franchi, Director of Development.

PHOTO: Roland with Ginger in the Locker Room at Bryn Mawr Hospital with their ID badges.

Lewey's Story

I found Lewey through Petfinder from Foxwoods Animal Shelter in Independence, MO in April 2008. It had been about 2 months since we lost our dog Blue to cancer, which left me devastated where I vowed to never get a dog again! Days and weeks went by and I was still out of sorts and I realized having a dog was a part of my daily routine and need to have in my life!

I would casually browse Petfinder and came across this adorable pup....I eventually inquired with his foster and met him at an adoption event. I was so nervous that I would not be able to take him home...low and behold, we were a perfect match! He's such a lovey and is a joy to have and brings a lot of free entertainment 24/7! What a great successor to our old boy Blue!

Kara Cantrell
Kearney, MO

Sweet Sandy

After being saved by a local shelter that rescued her from a euthanization list at a California holding facility, I found Sandy on Petfinder.com in September 2009. She was scheduled to go up for adoption in a few days so I made sure I was the first one there. I saw her, she saw me, and it was instant love. She is 5 years old and is a cross between a Terrier and Whippet. Sandy is my shadow at home and loves to be right on my lap or snuggled up to me whenever I sit down. She has the sweetest personality and just needs lots of love. I couldn't have asked for a better companion for my other dog or for our family. Go adopt today!

Karen L.

Gilbert, AZ

Meet Survivors of the Largest Dog Fighting Raid in History

This past July, the ASPCA assisted in collecting forensic evidence and conducting behavior evaluations of rescued dogs in a federal and multi-state investigation that led to one of the toughest crackdowns on dog fighting in U.S. history. Raids were conducted on various dog fighting operations in eight states and resulted in the rescue of more than 500 dogs.

Now, after months of rehabilitation, many of the rescued dogs are seeing a miraculous change in lifestyle.

Evaluated over the summer by a team of animal behaviorists, including four ASPCA staffers, most of the dogs are absolute gems with people, and quite a number are also good with other dogs.

Vice President of the ASPCA Animal Behavior Center, Dr. Pamela Reid, who was a member of the behavior evaluations team, says, “We found the dogs to be true to Pit Bull reputation─they were extremely friendly with people. Most greeted us with wagging tails and smiling eyes, and while some were aggressive with other dogs, as would be expected from their history, about two-thirds of the adults and most of the puppies did not test as aggressive. With socialization and training, many of these dogs may well turn out to be excellent pets and companions."

A Tribute to Dakota

We so often feel the need to resort to faith when we're confronted with misfortune, heartbreak, calamity, or catastrophe, that cannot be justified or explained away in any logical plane. Losing a loved one far too soon comes to mind. One such occurrence hit the Hunsicker clan this week with horrific impact. A most unfortunate mishap – I would even go so far as to label it a disaster – that left us all with such sorrow. You cry, then you remember, then you cry some more until you try to make sense of it all. We are all left wondering how such a loving, giving little soul could be forced to endure the pain of a debilitating illness. And, despite the best medical care available, a little dog that brought so much joy to so many would eventually succumb to the disease. Not for lack of fighting either. From all first hand accounts, the little Yorkie – our Dakota - was a real trooper, a true fighter. She had much to live for. After all, too many relied on her for her to leave. In the short period that our Dakota was under hospital supervision, she quickly won the hearts of the doctors and staff.

We were all praying and pulling for her recovery. But it wasn't meant to be. And we all are left to deal with the pain and bewilderment in our own way. Personally, I pulled the faith card. All things happen for a reason. And, I know enough from experience to stop there. If you take it to the next level – attempting to figure out the "why" - you'll simply end up in a very bad state – anger, the feeling of betrayal, and eventually loss of faith. Best not to go there. Because as sure as the day is long, there's another heartbreak not too far down the road. And its faith that will get us all through that one. And the next one, and so on.

This post is a tribute to the too short, but incredibly full life that Dakota lived. I only hope my mother and sister can "pull the faith card", as I have, to get through this. Because through faith we know this happened for a reason, and some day – when all are united again, we will have the answer to all the "whys". We love you Dakota, we will miss you Dakota, and we will see you again. We know this because we have faith.

An email from Dakota's Doctor at the Florida Veterinary Referral Center to my sister Susan, who - along with Dakota's sister Phoebe - was under the constant care and supervision of Dakota from sun up to sun down.

From: Courtney North [mailto:courtnorthvmd@gmail.com]

Sent: Tuesday, November 10, 2009 11:06 AM

To: susan@susangallo.com

Subject: Dakota

Hi Ms. Gallo - yesterday I took a look at Dakota's blog and I just wanted to drop you a note because the site is so sweet and the pictures of Dakota are wonderful. She and Phoebe were adorable together and I also love the photo of Dakota looking perky. I know what a tremendous loss this is for all of you - Dakota was such a sweet girl and was quickly beloved by everyone at FVRC. She is in everyone's thoughts.

Sincerely,
Courtney North

My sister's reply to Dr. North:

From: Susan Gallo [mailto:Susan@SusanGallo.com]

Sent: Tuesday, November 10, 2009 6:14 PM

To: 'Courtney North'

Subject: RE: Dakota

Thank you, Dr. North. I am still reeling and can't quite come to grips with our loss. I so believed she would be coming back home, I was devastated Sunday when I saw her. I still can't understand and wish so much I had spent the last 2-1/2 hours with her instead of sitting in the reception area. When I finally got to see her and those loving eyes saw me, she just gave up. She had waited for me to say goodbye. I have so much guilt and regrets over the last two weeks....I cannot see straight.

My issues aside, my brother is going to do a tribute on his blog. I will send you the link when it is finished. I want to thank you and your staff for caring so much and trying so hard to save her—believe me, she was worth the trouble. I just wish we could have kept her here—pain free—for many more years. I need her love. She loved so hard and cared so much it was unbelievable. She actually cared if you were upset, hurt or if she did something naughty—which she so seldom did....and she would pout if you had to scold her....

Again, thank you. I just wish I was thanking you for saving her....God Bless You.

Warmly,
Susan

An email from a nieghbor who was also touched and inspired by Dakota's loving nature...

From: Ann Frees [mailto:afrees@harmonyinc.com]

Sent: Thursday, November 12, 2009 10:37 AM

To: 'Susan Gallo'

Subject: RE: Dakota's tribute

Hi Susan,

I loved Dakota and will miss her. She called to me from her open garage door whenever she knew that I was near by. …..always ready and wanting to reach out and connect. That meant giving a lick and getting a tummy rub. She had complete confidence in her purpose in the world…..to share her unrestrained exuberance and unconditional love. Thank you Dakota. We can all take a lesson from you and make sure that we live each day in the same way.

Harmony in all things,

Ann

And another...

From: Toni Hunter [mailto:toni3299@verizon.net]

Sent: Thursday, November 12, 2009 9:59 AM

To: 'Sharon Arnold'

Subject: RE: Tribute to Dakota

Oh, what a beautiful tribute to little Dakota – it seems that everyone that she touched loved her so much. Just think of the joy she brought to your family the years she lived with them. Knowing that she was loved and taken care of better than some children experience is a tribute to all of you.

Dakota will live forever in your memory and like you wrote in the blog, she has joined the other Hunsicker pets, who are not in pain anymore and will once again be frolicking and being the puppy you know her to be.

Thanks so much for sharing this with me…what a wonderful touching tribute.

Love you,
Me

How Cammi rescued ME!

Heartbroken, after putting Gus, my first dog, a Blue Heeler to sleep in July, 2007, a friend reached out to me by sending daily emails with Petfinder listings of dogs up for adoption. "I'll never get another dog," I swore...Until I saw Cammi's beautiful scrappy photo on my computer. She was a petite Red Heeler- at CA Underdog Rescue all the way down in Fresno, over 250 miles away! "Too far," I thought, but as the days wore on, I could not stop thinking about her.

A 3-hour drive and a few days later, I loaded up Cammi into my car with her new collar and leash, full of anticipation.

Cammi had been found at the side of the road in a ditch, pregnant, sick with a respiratory infection and covered in ticks. She was taken in by the resuce, treated and prepared to deliver her puppies. Unfortunately, her pups were born with the same respiratory infection she had and they did not make it. Consequently, I learned that she too had a broken heart when we met. Our bond was immediate and it was like she already knew me.

The 2 of us drove down Interstate 5 together; both knowing the healing process had begun; my heart full of joy.

Two years later, Cammi convinced me to adopt again; fastforward to Sammi, another Red Heeler rescue, and the rewards have been never ending!

Kelly Sullivan
Windsor, CA

"Trying to find my soldier momma!"

I rescued a dog I named Maggie from a shelter at Ft Stewart GA in Feb 2007. She had been beaten, abused, and starved before I got her. I have rescued 2 black lab retreiver mixes before her, and I love them. I got her home and we bonded immediatly. She got along great with my other dog (a rescue from a shelter in TX) and my cat.

I got married in Sept 2007 and deployed to Iraq in Oct 2007. Once I deployed to Iraq in support of OIF V Maggie took it VERY hard. She is a momma's girl and went everywhere I went. She wouldnt eat, play, or be herself without me. At the beginning on Dec 2007 she ran away, appearently trying to find me. She was gone for 4 months. I came home on leave in Feb 2008 and spent my 2 weeks home looking for her. I went house to house and back to the shelter numerous times.

I finally had to go back to Iraq, and in April my husband received a call from the shelter saying that they thought they had Maggie. I happened to be talking to him online when he got the call. He went down there and sure enough she was there. He brought her home, and told me online that she was home safe and sound. I called him immediatly and talked to her on the phone. He told me that she was wagging her tail and I could hear her whining when she heard my voice. Since I have been home from Iraq she will barely leave my side.

Brandie Sims

Nacogdoches, TX

Prayers for Dakota

A brave little pup is in need of your prayers for recovery from a number of ailments that really shouldn't have to borne by such a kind little loving soul such as Dakota. She is in a great deal of pain due to complications from diabetes which she was diagnosed with about three months ago. She has since had recurring bouts of pancreatis. And, in the last ten days she has developed a severe (acute) case of pancreatitis.

But I am told by her family (my mom and sister) that she is such an incredible fighter. And the veterinarians and staff of the Florida Veterinary Referral Center that Dakota has been calling home for much too long agree. They have all fallen for the little Yorkie. She is also missed at home greatly by her sister Phoebe (top photo). Any and all prayers for Dakota's complete recovery will be greatly appreciated.Florida

Dakota is under the care of Dr. Courtney North, DVMInternal Medicine in Estero, Florida.

Stella the Minature Pinscher

As a MinPin lover for more than 20 years, I was so tempted when my friend, Sarah, was fostering an adorable one. I talked to my husband and the kids and we agreed that we had room in our hearts and our home for a second dog.

Sarah's dog wasn't right for us, but we started looking on the IMPS website and fell in love with Stella the moment we saw her picture and read her story. After talking to her foster mom, we couldn't wait to meet her. We brought her home that day and our home has been happier ever since. We had never had two dogs at once and didn't know what to expect. What we got was twice the four-legged love and twice the joy. Even the aloof Zeus became attached to her quickly. Not a day goes by when she doesn't make me laugh out loud with her silliness. It is amazing that a dog who was mistreated for so many years can be so loving and trusting.

Thank you to all who foster dogs while they await their forever home. We are so thankful to have Stella in ours.

Stella is on the right in the picture.

Terry Hanly

Anaheim Hills, CA

Meet Archie - the ASCPA Dog of the Year

ASPCA Dog of the Year

A true four-legged hero, Archie is an eight-year-old black Labrador retriever, who serves as an assistance dog and social lifeline for Sergeant Clay Rankin. Sgt. Rankin suffered spinal injuries while serving in Iraq, and Archie is his primary caregiver and social safety net. Archie's loyalty and perseverance in helping Sgt. Rankin accomplish his daily tasks has allowed the veteran to regain his confidence and independence, move forward with his life and continue serving the country he loves.

On October 29, during the ASPCA annual Humane Awards Luncheon at the Pierre Hotel in New York City, we honored a heroic guide dog, a piano-playing Tabby and eight extraordinary people who’ve made a big impact on the lives of animals. In the hotel’s newly restored ballroom, winners and guests gathered to celebrate the contributions of those who devote their lives to animal welfare and, according to ASPCA President & CEO Ed Sayres, to honor “those who have demonstrated extraordinary compassion, bravery and commitment to furthering the human-animal bond.”

Indeed, the recipient of the 2009 Dog of the Year award could be the “poster pooch” for the human-animal bond. A true four-legged hero, Archie is an eight-year-old black Labrador Retriever who serves as an assistance dog and social lifeline for another kind of hero, Sergeant Clay Rankin. Sgt. Rankin suffered spinal injuries—as well as Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder—from serving in Iraq, and Archie is his primary caregiver and social safety net. Archie's loyalty and perseverance in helping Sgt. Rankin accomplish his daily tasks has allowed the veteran to regain his confidence and independence, move forward with his life and continue serving the country he loves.

Before and after the awards ceremony, Archie comforted and guided Sgt. Rankin, who graciously accepted the award with Archie by his side. Archie deftly navigated the ballroom’s maze of tables, enjoying the excitement surrounding his human companion. This get-along pooch even posed for photographs with the other award winners. These included four brave men from Missouri who worked on the frontlines of the largest dog fighting raid in U.S. history; Alayne Marker, who along with her husband, Steve Smith, runs the Rolling Dog Ranch for disabled animals in Ovando, MT; the animal-friendly Hingham (MA) Fire Department; and a truly remarkable young girl, Monica Plumb of Powhatan County, VA, who raised funds to purchase pet oxygen masks for fire departments across the country.

Courtesy of ASPCA

Truly a heartwarming story with a happy ending!

Dog Builds ‘Nest’ From Injured Family’s Possessions

When Kathy, an animal shelter worker in Tennessee, spotted an emaciated Rottweiler along the side of a highway, she figured the dog was a stray or had been cruelly abandoned there.

But Kathy soon realized that there was something different about “Ella.” Ella was friendly and eager for attention -- behavior that is unusual for either a stray or an abused animal. She had clearly been loved by someone.

There were more clues in the wooded area just off the highway. Kathy discovered a “nest” where Ella had been sleeping (upper left). It was strewn with someone’s personal items, including a toothbrush, razor, comb and candle.

Then Kathy remembered something crucial. A few weeks earlier, a terrible car wreck had taken place on the highway…very close to where Ella had made her makeshift home.

Could Ella have been in the car? Was it possible that she had survived the crash and gathered the items thrown from her family’s car? Was she now loyally waiting for someone’s return?

Help Pets Separated From Suffering Families

Kathy’s hunch soon proved true. She contacted the state’s highway patrol authorities and learned that a single car had flipped over and landed on the side of the road near Ella’s “nest.” A family of five had been in the car. Some members had been hospitalized, but they all survived.

Rescuers had never seen Ella, who had likely been thrown from the car. The dog foraged on her own for a few weeks, drinking from a drainage ditch and patiently waiting for beloved family members who thought their special pet was dead!

American Humane stepped in when we learned that the family’s medical bills had caused tremendous financial strain. Unfortunately, the family had moved to a home that did not allow pets. We provided a critical grant to Kathy’s animal shelter to help fund Ella’s care.

Though unable to bring Ella back into their home at this time, the family was thrilled to see her and hopes to be reunited for good in the future. Meanwhile, Ella is living safely and comfortably in a loving foster home.

During this month of giving thanks, please consider a donation to help fund American Humane’s Foreclosure Pets Grants. A single act of generosity -- no matter how small -- will make a tremendous difference for pets like Ella, whose families are undergoing extreme financial hardship.

Donate today!

*A one-time donation of $10 will be added to your mobile phone bill or deducted from your prepaid balance. Messaging & Data Rates May Apply. All charges are billed by and payable to your mobile service provider. Service is available on most carriers. Donations are collected for the benefit of the "American Humane Association" by the Mobile Giving Foundation and subject to the terms found at http://www.hmgf.org/t/. You can unsubscribe at any time by replying STOP to short code 85944; Reply HELP to 85944 for help.

Thanks to Susan Gallo for forwarding this to me.

Bubba the Pomeranian

We saw Bubba's picture on an internet adoption site and couldn't wait to meet him. This little 4 year old Pomeranian was confined to a kennel at a vet's office and I knew there was no way I was leaving that place without him. When we got him home he was a mess: afraid of the tv, a statue of Elvis, the neighbor's dog, parks, everything except us. With lots of love, patience and of course discipline, he is a fun-loving little guy who wants nothing more than a ride in the car with his family and to sleep beside his mommy every night.

Brett, Danielle & Foxy
Los Angeles, CA

Bodie

I adopted Bodie from the Oregon Humane Society in Portland. He was returned twice due to separation anxiety, and was an accomplished escape artist. He was only two years old. The first couple of years were tough. He would follow people home if left out in the yard alone for anytime at all. Finally Bodie out grew the terrible two's, three's and four year old stages that Labs are known for. Now all he wants to do is sleep in his recliner, play and give sloppy dog kisses. He fills our house with love and is the best part of coming home at the end of the day. I can't imagine our life without him.

Julie Bliss
Camas, WA

Help stop dogs from being sold into research

Dear Animal Advocates,

The Federal Pet Safety and Protection Act would prohibit Class B Dealers and unlicensed individuals from selling dogs and cats to research laboratories. Class B Dealers are people who collect dogs and cats to sell to the research industry. They sometimes obtain their animals through illegal or unethical means, such as by responding to “free to good home” ads in newspapers, falsifying records to keep the true origins of the animals unknown and stealing pets kept outside in yards. They also buy animals in bulk from “bunchers,” whose methods are even more questionable.

Eliminating Class B Dealers will also take away the profit motive of bunchers, providing a much-needed safety net to ensure beloved pets are not stolen or acquired under false pretenses and sold to facilities that test on animals. What can you do? Visit the ASPCA Advocacy Center Online to email your U.S. senators and representative urging them to support and cosponsor the Pet Safety and Protection Act. You may use the same link to read about this legislation in greater depth. Thank you for supporting the ASPCA and America’s animals.

Courtesy of ASPCA

A Tribute to the Greatest Therapy Dog Ever!

This is truly a wonderful story that demonstrates the incredible spirit of dogs...they are indeed the most forgiving and giving creatures on God's Earth...



Baxter the Therapy Dog, a San-Diego-area Chow/Lab mix who spent years providing care and comfort to humans at the end of life, died last Friday at the age of 19.After a puppyhood of abuse, Baxter grew up to become a certified therapy dog with Therapy Dogs International, and enjoyed fame and fans worldwide for his years of volunteer work at San Diego Hospice, where he spent time cuddling, licking faces, and providing smiles for people in hospice care. He even became the subject of an award-winning book: "Moments with Baxter: Comfort and Love From the World's Best Therapy Dog." Many of those who knew Baxter believe that it was his own ailments that made him such a powerful companion to hospice patients. The arthritis that plagued him during the latter half of his life left him unable to walk. His owner, Melissa Joseph, helped him carry out his duties at the hospice by pulling him around in a cart and carrying him to patients' beds.

Thanks Lynda for forwarding this beautiful story to me.

Skitter's New Family

I adopted this beautiful seal blue Italian Greyhound on July 4th - Independance Day. She's the one in the middle in the photo. She was a puppy mill momma for 6 years and never had the life she should have. It was difficult to seperate her from her kennel mate, Marco ... but Marco has also found a happy home with the Director.

Juliet is now called Skitters because she is skittish about everything! Her recent toe-nail clipping turned exciting. It required 3 techs and the vet to hold her down - and she still won. Next time, she'll get a bit of happy medicine before her appointment. The vet suggested Rescue Remedy which is a herbal treatment for dogs with 'issues'. I add some to her drinking water and it seems to help. Or it may be useful hoping on my part. She has the run of the house, a great backyard with lots of hiding places and a doggie door. She's been wonderful about using the doggie door since day 2.

Her days are spent running and jumping with her new (grouchy) OLD iggy sister. Sometimes her iggy cousin comes for a visit. Skitters wears her catch leash 24/7. If it wasn't for the leash, I'd never catch her. After 2+ months, Skitters will sit on the couch with me and watch TV - as long as we maintain a 24" distance and I don't move.

She will lick my fingers if they are coated with Breyer's All Natural Vanilla/Chocolate Crackle Ice Cream. Nothing else will do. When I come home from work, she momentarily forgets how scary I am. Skitters will bark, wag her tail and do a little stiff-legged hopping dance. I love her dearly, and she is making progress to accepting her new life. She is so beautiful and sweet that it is hard not to just scoop her up and hug her. Someday!

Next goal is going for a walk on the leash - I'm hoping we can pull that off next spring. She has taught me patience! I've told her story to my friends, family and coworkers. I can't imagine how anyone could treat her or any of mill dogs so horribly. She has a forever home now and I'll spend everyday spoiling her. I am so glad the National Mill Dog Rescue let me adopt her!

Riley the Rescue Dog

Riley came to us as a rescue. I saw his picture on Petfinders.com after we lost our beloved Mags to a stroke. We immediately hopped in the truck and headed to the rescue in Texas. We didn't even take time to call. We arrived 3 hours later and found that he had been loaded into a van heading to an adoption event. After a couple of calls and a wild chase to catch the van, we caught up with Riley. We knew immediately that he was ours.

He has had a rough time being treated for heartworms but he is acclimating well and negotiating a truce with our female Aussie, Molly. He is a laid back guy with a gentle personality. He has made it his job to wake us up every morning at 7am. He jumps on the bed and snuggles with us until we are fully awake. We are so lucky to have found him but I do wish he came with a snooze button. :)

Carla Thrasher
Moore, OK

Courtesy of The Animal Rescue Site

Does Lead in Toys Pose a Danger to Pets?

Whether your pet prefers squeaky rubber squirrels, stiff rawhide bones or fuzzy mice, he or she undoubtedly loves to play with toys. But is the source of your dog's or cat’s merriment safe? Many common household products—including toys for children and pets—may contain trace amounts of lead and other toxins. In most cases, however, the levels of these ingredients in toys don’t pose a significant threat to your furry friend.

The ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (APCC) reviewed 200,000 cases from the past two years and produced no examples of lead poisoning from pet toys. According to Dr. Sharon Gwaltney-Brant, ASPCA Vice President and Medical Director of the APCC, younger dogs, just like children, are especially vulnerable to lead poisoning, but most studies reveal only tiny amounts of lead in pet toys—not a grave risk for acute or chronic lead poisoning in dogs.
“Just because it's 'detectable' doesn't necessarily make it hazardous,” says Dr. Gwaltney-Brant. “Even oxygen is toxic at the right concentration.”

And what about other types of treats such as rawhide bones? Like pet toys, rawhide chews can include trace amounts of pesky chemicals. Dr. Safdar Khan, Director of Toxicology at the ASPCA, believes many dog lovers would be surprised if they learned the true contents of their pets’ treats. But he also adds that pet parents would likely be surprised if they knew the complete ingredients of what they eat and drink, too.

The reality is that a dog is much more likely to suffer obstruction from a rawhide bone than poisoning from a hidden toxin. In general, the smaller the dog, the fewer rawhide treats he should receive, and only give your pet rawhides under a watchful eye. Remember, it’s always wise to supervise!

And lest you think we’re leaving out our feline fans, here are a few safety tips to keep in mind when shopping for kitty’s favorite play things:

The wand toy, often adorned with feathers, string or small stuffed toys, is ubiquitous. But take care with it, and watch for pieces of string or other components that might fall from the toy and get swallowed by your cat.

Another popular treat for the kitty set is catnip. Word to the wise—some cats become very excited when smelling or eating it, so be careful about petting your cat until you know how she will respond.

Please don’t let your cat play with rubber bands, paper clips or plastic bags. All can prove dangerous and a choking risk to our feline friends.

For more information about playing it safe with your pet, please visit APCC online.

Courtesy of ASPCA

ASPCA Happy Tails: We Are Family

In April 2007, shortly after they received the keys to their first apartment in New York City, Lisa and John Bolender decided their first order of business was to adopt a dog. The young couple made a beeline for the ASPCA Adoption Center in Manhattan, where they met a special, one-year-old Cane Corso named Aniya, who also goes by the nickname Niya.

“She put her paw up against the glass when I came near, and we knew we had to meet her,” Lisa says. “The first night in our place in New York was spent with Niya curled up with us on a pile of blankets and pillows. She has been devoted to us ever since.”

Eventually, the little family moved back to their home state of Michigan, where they decided to expand their brood. “Niya wanted to play with every dog and person she came across, from sun up to sun down,” explains Lisa. “So John went to the Livingston County Humane Society and adopted Brutis, another Cane Corso, about four months younger than Niya.”

Now the two pooches are best buddies. Says Lisa: “Niya will plop herself down on Brutis' head or back her rear end into his side at least once an hour to get him to play. They run around and follow us from room to room, always jumping on each other.”

But the family didn’t stop there—in March 2008, Lisa and John welcomed a daughter, Ava, into their furry world. “Niya was wonderful with Ava from the start,” Lisa muses. “She even sleeps in Ava's room at night by her bed. Every time Ava wakes up, Niya is the first one she looks for.”

This fun-loving, loyal pooch has settled into life as a big sister and canine matriarch with ease. “She shakes her entire rear end when she is happy, to make up for the lack of a long tail,” Lisa laughs. “She also likes to ‘talk’ to us when she wants to play or just wants attention, and never ceases to get excited to see us when we walk through the door.”

She adds: “Niya is very special to us. She is an essential part of our every day. She makes us laugh and is Ava's best friend. I am so happy that we walked into the ASPCA that day.”

Courtesy of ASPCA

A Barktoberfest Celebration for Pottstown PA area residents

For Immediate Release
Contact: Carol Dietch Long
610.213.9245
cdlong@cdlbiz.com

In a Dog-Eat-Dog World, Local Pet Retailer Finds Her Niche

Pottstown, PA – October 15, 2009 – Today’s climate of big box competition and belt tightening can be tough on small retailers. Lacking the arsenal of resources that bigger retailers have to ensure profitability, small retailers must rely on gut instinct and innovation to stay alive. That’s just what Diane Dietch of Pottstown, PA–based Diane’s Discount Pet Supplies and Adoption Center has managed.

Dietch has accomplished what few small business owners can do – turn a passion into a business and then keep it alive for 20 years. The retail establishment on Route 100 employs 15 full- and part-time people. It has thrived despite the recent economic downturn and the opening of a national pet store just two miles away – without resorting to layoffs. “We have seen a slight drop in sales, so we really tightened control of expenses and thought of new ways to service our customers,” Dietch explains.

For example, over the years Diane’s has introduced new services to keep up with customers’ needs but also to keep cash flow strong. “We started offering low-cost vaccine clinics several years ago,” Dietch adds. “This year we opened a self-service dog wash so people can leave us with the bath-time aftermath.”

Dietch started her business in 1989 when she was 24 years old, but she was already a veteran of the pet industry. “I started cleaning kennels when I was 12 years old. In high school I started working at a local pet shop where I really learned the trade,” says Dietch. It was there that Dietch honed her ability to connect with customers. That connection, and the pleasure she and her staff derive from connecting pets with owners, has helped ensure her business’s ongoing success while still looking after animals’ interests.

It’s no wonder, then, that one offering Diane’s is best known for besides its fully stocked fish room and hand-raised birds is its pet adoption services. “In the past 20 years, we’ve adopted out just over 12,000 dogs, cats, puppies, and kittens,” Dietch adds. To encourage the spaying and neutering of these pets, Diane’s offers a $50 to $75 refund when the owner presents proof that the pet has been spayed or neutered.

Now that Diane’s offers on-site spay/neuter services through the work of Dietch’s veterinarian husband Steven M. Silberman, DVM, the shop can better uphold its drive to help control animal population. “We can now take a proactive step to tackle an ongoing and under-addressed problem – the unfortunate destruction of cats and dogs due to pet overpopulation,” Dietch says.

Dietch’s resolve to help ensure no pets suffer through inhumane euthanasia is evident in her past work with no-kill shelters and her current work with A Shelter Friend, Inc., a nonprofit pet rescue group based in Elizabethtown, NC. “A Shelter Friend sends daily e-mail messages for pets in shelters whose time is running out. If no one commits to rescue the pets, then they are destroyed in a gas chamber, which is a very cruel method of euthanasia.” says Dietch. “We take in as many pets as we can – often meeting the transport van in other states and many times in the middle of the night – so we can find homes for these pets in Pennsylvania.” Dietch’s unwavering commitment to both animal interests and her customers has helped her business succeed and provide jobs in the local community. That’s reason to celebrate – which is exactly what Diane’s is doing on Saturday, October 24, 2009.

“To thank our customers and community, we’re having a ‘Barktoberfest’ celebration,” Dietch explains. “We’re having a big sale and free gifts plus activities, demonstrations, and costume contests for pets.”

Activities include a K-9 North Coventry Police Demo at 1:00 pm, an Exotic Animal Show at 2:00 pm, and Doggie Contests beginning at 3:00 pm for best costume, biggest dog, smallest dog, and best look-a-like. Other attractions include a canine mini-agility course, pet microchipping, face painting, and a bounce house for kids, as well as visits from an animal herbalist, a pet chiropractor, assorted vendors, and more. Food and beverages will also be available.

To learn more visit http://www.ddpets.com/ or call 610.970.7500.

###

A chance to showcase your dog!

From Kyla Duffy,
Editor Happy Tails Books

I’m raising awareness about puppy mills and supporting dog rescue groups by publishing breed-specific books full of stories about adopted dogs. The books give proud owners of adopted dogs a chance to showcase them, raise awareness about dog adoption and breed characteristics, and generate funding for dog rescue through the donation of a portion of each sale. The first book, “Lost Souls: FOUND! Inspirational Stories of Adopted Boston Terriers” is available for pre-sale at http://happytailsbooks.com/ and on Amazon.com. The next four books will be about Golden Retrievers, Labs, Dachshunds, and Chihuahuas, and we're planning region-specific mixed-breed books down the road too. We are currently collecting stories for all of our books and would love to hear from anyone who has a great story about their adopted dog. Is there anything you can do to help us spread the word?

Thank you,

Kyla

http://happytailsbooks.com/

Tucker Angel

Tucker Angel had an amazing first day with us after spending 4 months with his foster mom...who taught him how to love and trust humans. Tucker is a former puppy mill dog who, just 4 months ago, suffered extreme mental cruelty and deprivation. He was catatonic and covered with urine when purchased at a puppy mill auction. Lawrence and I are working to continue the efforts of National Mill Dog Rescue compassionate team of folks who rescue these dogs so they can live the rest of their lives as normally as possible.

Tucker is a quiet, gentle little cocker boy who has already endeared himself to many. KC is fine with our newest addition; Zoe, however, is not so sure....Tucker wants to lie by her so I think she'll come around in time. Tucker was with his foster mom, Barb for 4 months before he took a treat from her hand. Puppy mill dogs are so abused; they learn to mistrust humans, spending their lives in metal cages only to breed and make money for their owners. No vet care is supplied, a poor diet can lead to malnutrition and disease; dogs lie in their own feces and urine. I always knew puppy mills were bad; I just never knew HOW BAD! Lawrence and I are honored to have this beautiful soul grace our lives with his presence. We are looking forward to the day when he wags that cocker stub in happiness and believes he has nothing to fear from humans.

Anyway, I encourage you to become more informed and aware of this inhumane treatment of innocent animals by visiting their website and reading about Lily (search this blog for Lily to read the several posts about her incredible life and ultimate salvation). We hope it enlightens you and that you'll share this knowledge with others. There are over 10,000 puppy mills in operation in the US...they sell to pet stores, in newspapers, and online.

Ok, here we are 3 weeks, to the day when Tucker first joined our family. He’s making steady progress, albeit VERY slow progress. We’ve settled into a routine. Tucker began sleeping in a bed downstairs because he was afraid of going up to the bedrooms. He now runs up and down the stairs, but still won’t go into the bedrooms. He usually will pee outside (we have a doggie door which he eagerly learned how to use, but has some accidents when he cannot get outside). Some other “naughty” behaviors: he chewed a bit on my computer cord a few days ago and has dug a couple of small holes in the backyard. No, no punishment for now; he has too many other issues to overcome.

BUT, when you think about the lack of freedom and his horrible, traumatic early years, it’s a small price to pay for his rehabilitation.

Tucker was mute 3 weeks ago, but has begun to bark a bit, and if you listen ever so carefully, you’ll hear this soft whine that says, “I’m cute, come be with me; I know you MUST be really good people.” He will be sleeping peacefully, but let one of us stand up, he’s alert and ready to run (and sometimes does!). Other than that, he’s a sweet and adorable little guy. He’s now wagging his tail (or cocker “stub”) when I call him and will come close. We’ve only touched him 3 times in 3 weeks and he’s never been on a walk (cannot get close enough to him to put a leash on), nor will he allow us to pet him. We’ve chosen to allow him the freedom to heal in HIS time, not ours.

Three weeks ago, he was VERY afraid of any little noise and would startle and run for safety, always staying far enough away to NOT get trapped by a human. He’d circle around the furniture, the spa, the trees, anything that would allow him to stay in control of who’s coming close.

He’s slowing relaxing and now will lie on his side when sleeping nearby; we believe it’s an indication he’s becoming a bit more comfortable around us. He will take treats from our hands, but NO WAY will he stick around if that same hand reaches out to pet him! It’s hard to be so patient when we want to just love on him, but we know the life we’re providing for him is EXPONENTIALLY better than the puppy mill he came from.

Tucker is dependent on bonding with our other 2 dogs, a cocker, KC, and follows our Aussie, Zoe all over the house and yard. He’s made attempts to “play” with them, but still seems a bit unsure how to have a good time as a “regular” dog. His foster mom told me that rescue dogs like Tucker need a “pack” to show them how to be a dog and that they closely watch the behaviors of the other dogs. Is this not an inhumane way to make money? What kind of person inflicts this kind of severe trauma on an innocent, defenseless soul (or kills them when they no longer can serve their purpose)? I imagine that as rescue dogs heal, they go through behavioral stages as those layers and layers of pain, neglect, and abuse become a more distant memory.

Tucker now appears to be in a puppy stage (the chewing, barking, and house accidents), but I can tell that with time, patience, and love, this little angel will continue the healing process and one day, will enjoy being caressed and attended to by his loving human “pack” (At least, we HOPE that’s in the future for us and for Tucker). I would strongly suggest that if you’re considering adoption of a dog as severely traumatized as Tucker, listen to the good folks at Mill Dog Rescue.

They know the needs of each dog and will be ever SO grateful for your generous contribution through adoption. In our opinion, puppy mills should be shut down entirely and their owners prosecuted for animal cruelty. But, as long as people want less expensive dogs than reputable breeders charge, there will continue to be a need.

Please share this knowledge about the harshness of puppy mill life with your friends and family, coworkers and neighbors. Hopefully, we CAN make the difference it takes to apply the pressure for more humane treatment of these precious souls. These dogs NEED good homes, with patient, loving people and the necessary time for healing to take place. Lawrence and I are eternally grateful for the opportunity to help this one little dog. We’d be happy to answer any emails regarding questions that might arise. Thank you Mill Dog Rescue for your tireless work and constant heartache. YOU are the true angels!

Courtesy of National Mill Dog Rescue