Cool Collarettes

It’s like magic. Something old becomes new again. I have always been enchanted by this process of transformation, even before it became known as recycling and was recognized as good for the environment. As a child, I made milk cartons into doll houses and lunchboxes into pocketbooks. Paperclips became jewelry and my father’s old neckties became bracelets and belts. Now, when I make things for my dog, this is the creative process.

Transformation
I discovered this idea for dog collars while refashioning a shirt for myself, and even though it didn’t fit me at all, it is almost impossible for me to throw anything away. So there I was on the floor with scissors, needles and thread, and of course Eloise. She always helps me sew by finding as many dangerous things to chew on as she can. As I cut and tucked and modeled the changes in front of the mirror, I caught Eloise disappearing around the corner with the collar in her mouth for a nice private chew. And then the moment arrived ... when I saw something become something else. I think I actually got a surge of adrenaline when it happened because it made me laugh out loud. I removed the collar from her mouth and slipped it effortlessly around her neck. A perfect fit. Tight enough to keep it away from her teeth and paws, but loose enough to be comfortable. The concept of “dog collar” took on a whole new meaning.
But I couldn’t stop there. The possibilities were endless for decoration and embellishment. Trims, embroidery, buttons and bows. I began asking all my friends for hand-me-down shirts and combing thrift stores and flea markets for different sizes, colors and patterns. I gave them to all my doggie friends and started selling them in my local pet store. At 48 years old creating fashions for my dog is almost as much fun as making things for my dolls when I was 10, but with an added bonus. It helps soften the blows of middle age.

Materials

• Shirt with a collar the right size for your dog. It should be 3"- 4" bigger than the exact neck measurement. You can find different sizes by using children’s, women’s and men’s shirts. It must also have a neckband. That’s the piece that joins the collar to the shirt and allows you to cut it off in one piece.
• Some kind of glue that is made for preventing fray. There are several kinds available in sewing and craft stores.
• Another kind of glue that creates a permanent fabric bond and can be washed.
• A special button.
• Small piece of Velcro tm.
• Assorted trims and decorations.
• Embroidery floss.

Directions
1. Cut the collar off the shirt being careful to stay as close to the seam as possible but without cutting into the neckband.
2. Spread the fray block glue along the bottom seam. It will dry clear on most fabrics. When dry, trim loose threads and fabric.
3. If you want to use the button to open and close the collar, then make sure your new button fits the hole and replace the old one. Or you can sew Velcro in place of a button for easier access and then you can add a bigger button or other decoration to the front.
4. Decorate with trims and/or embroidery to your heart’s content! These can be sewed or glued with the permanent washable glue.
[Note: The collarettes are designed to fit loosely around your dog’s neck and are not intended for leash attachment.]

Credit: thebark.com

Fewer Wild Animals In Kenya

The numbers of wild grazing animals in Kenya's world-renowned Maasai Mara National Reserve have fallen substantially in 15 years as wildlife competes with neighboring human settlements, researchers say. A study published on April 22, 2009 in the British Journal of Zoology found six species -- giraffes, hartebeest, impala, warthogs, topis and waterbuck -- had declined "markedly and persistently" throughout the 1,500 square km (580 square mile) reserve.

Kenya's Maasai Mara is best known for its spectacular annual wildebeest migration. Hundreds of thousands of tourists visit every year.

Researchers found the growing human Maasai population in the area had cut wild animal numbers by taking over wildlife grazing land for crop and livestock production to support their families. The report also said some traditional farming communities to the west and southwest of the Mara were continuing to illegally hunt wildlife inside the reserve for both food and profit.

Source: reuters

Chi Flies High

Tinker Bell, an 8 month old, six-pound Chihuahua, has been reunited with her owners after a 70 mph wind gust picked her up and carried her out of sight.

Owners Dorothy and Lavern Utley (on left, holding Tinker Bell) of Rochester, New York credit a pet psychic for guiding them to a wooded area nearly a mile from where Tinker Bell had been last seen. The brown long-haired dog was dirty and hungry but otherwise fine.

The Utleys had set up a display Saturday at a flea market near Detroit, Michigan. Tinker Bell was standing on their platform trailer when she was swept away. Mrs. Utley stated that Tinker Bell "just went wild" upon her return.

Source: msnbc

"The Supreme Ruler of All Cats"

"Limecat" is the Supreme Ruler of All Cats. His head has a natural beret which strongly resembles a cut-up lime, but is really a symbol of his power. Limecat is seldom pleased with the deeds and words of petty humans, and only his priests have ever seen him do anything more than frown or give the Glare of Justice.

Source: urbandictionary

CA Seeks Tax Credit for Pet Adoption Fees

A California assemblyman's pet project would let state residents write off animal adoption fees.

Assembly Bill 233 is the brainchild of Southern California Assemblyman Cameron Smyth. The deductions would be for animals adopted from local government and nonprofit animal shelters. Residents would be allowed to $300 tax credit per year.

If the bill is approved, it would begin January 2010 and remain in effect through January 1, 2015.

Source: nbcbayarea

Bea Arthur's Dying Act is For The Birds

PETA disclosed yesterday that the final act of Bea Arthur - television sitcom star who died yesterday - was to implore Australian-born chef, Curtis Stone, to stop promoting foie gras. Chef Stone has risen rapidly to television fame in the US, but his promotion of foie gras has made him a target for various animal rights groups.

Foie Gras is fattened goose liver made by force-feeding birds for 12-18 days before slaughter.

PETA stated that Ms. Arthur's letter to Stone was originally scheduled to be made public today, but, due to Ms. Arthur's passing, was released yesterday.

Curtis Stone could not be contacted for comment.

Source: news.com.au

Michael Vick Wants Back in NFL

Michael Vick, former NFL football player turned convicted felon dog fighter, is seeking reinstatement to the NFL. Vick says football is the only way he can pay his bills and a $10/hour construction job will not allow him to live the lifestyle to which he has become accustomed. (Isn't that "lifestyle" what landed him in prison in the first place?) NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell has stated that Vick's expression of remorse for his illegal acts may open the door to Vick's reinstatement.

If you care to express your opinion about Vick's request for NFL reinstatement, email NFL Commissioner Goodell at Roger.Goodell2@nfl.net or phone him at (212) 450-2000 or (212) 450-2027, and let yourself be heard!

Big Brother IS Watching!

The LoveMyPets GPS safety Collar and Harness come with a battery charger, quick start guide, two wallet cards and a brochure with helpful tips. After receiving your LovemypetsGPS safety collar or Harness, you will need to go on line to complete the final activation and subscription process. There is a onetime charge of $19.95 for the activation and setup and a monthly subscription fee of $14.95 per month. The monthly subscription fee includes the use of the secure locating and tracking site, the use of the cellular network and 100 locates per year. When tracking your pet for example, if you want to receive a location update every minute until found, each locate each minute is considered a locate. The monthly subscription fee is based on an annual contract renewable year to year with an early termination fee of $50. Each year when the subscription renews, 100 hundred additional locates will be added to your account. Locates left over from the prior year will rollover and will be added to your account. If additional locates are needed, they can be purchased in quantities of 50($9.95) or 100($14.95). The LovemypetsGPS System uses the Sprint cellular network and its effectiveness will be determined by the strength of the signal received in your area.

Credit: lovemypetgps.com

Ridin' High!

Tiki, a 2 year old Pomeranian, rides his Harley with pride at the first "Show and Shine" at the Carson City Harley-Davidson in Carson City, Nevada on April 18, 2009.

Top 10 Human Medicines that Poison Our Pets

Although pet parents are well aware of poisons lurking around their home, many don’t realize that some of the biggest culprits are sitting right on their own nightstands. In 2007, the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center received 89,000 calls related to pets ingesting over-the-counter and prescription medications. To help you prevent an accident from happening, our experts have created a list of the top 10 human medications that most often poison our furry friends.

If you suspect your pet has ingested any of the following items, please call your veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center’s 24-hour hotline at (888) 426-4435. And remember to keep all medications tucked away in bathroom cabinets—and far from curious cats and dogs.

NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) like ibuprofen or naproxen are the most common cause of pet poisoning in small animals, and can cause serious problems even in minimal doses. Pets are extremely sensitive to their effects, and may experience stomach and intestinal ulcers and—in the case of cats—kidney damage.

Antidepressants can cause vomiting and lethargy and certain types can lead to serotonin syndrome—a condition marked by agitation, elevated body temperature, heart rate and blood pressure, disorientation, vocalization, tremors and seizures.

Cats are especially sensitive to acetaminophen, which can damage red blood cells and interfere with their ability to transport oxygen. In dogs, it can cause liver damage and, at higher doses, red blood cell damage.

Medications, such as Methylphenidate, used to treat ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) in people act as stimulants in pets and can dangerously elevate heart rates, blood pressure and body temperature, as well as cause seizures.

Fluorouracil—an anti-cancer drug—is used topically to treat minor skin cancers and solar keratitis in humans. It has proven to be rapidly fatal to dogs, causing severe vomiting, seizures and cardiac arrest even in those who’ve chewed on discarded cotton swabs used to apply the medication.

Often the first line of defense against tuberculosis, isoniazid is particularly toxic for dogs because they don’t metabolize it as well as other species. It can cause a rapid onset of severe seizures that may ultimately result in death.

Pseudoephedrine is a popular decongestant in many cold and sinus products, and acts like a stimulant if accidentally ingested by pets. In cats and dogs, it causes elevated heart rates, blood pressure and body temperature as well as seizures.

Many oral anti-diabetics treatments—including glipizide and glyburide—can cause a major drop in blood sugar levels of affected pets. Clinical signs of ingestion include disorientation, lack of coordination and seizures.

Even small exposures to Vitamin D derivatives like calcipotriene and calcitriol can cause life-threatening spikes in blood calcium levels in pets. Clinical signs of exposure—including vomiting, loss of appetite, increased urination and thirst due to kidney failure—often don't occur for more than 24 hours after ingestion.

Baclofen is a muscle relaxant that can impair the central nervous systems of cats and dogs. Some symptoms of ingestion include significant depression, disorientation, vocalization, seizures and coma, which can lead to death.

Credit: aspca.org

Connecticut "Pet Lemon Law" Heads to State Senate

Pet shop owners or kennel operators who lie about the origins of cats and dogs could spend 30+ days in jail and pay hundreds of dollars in fines under a pet lemon law approved on 4/21/2009 41-0 in the Connecticut Judiciary Committee.

The legislation, which now heads to the State Senate, would allow consumers as long as 30 days after purchase to return animals and claim up to $500 in veterinarian bills for illnesses that existed at the time of purchase and six months for congenital ailments. They also could receive their purchase price back under the bill, aimed at stopping fraudulent labeling of where animals were born, including puppy mills.

Source: stamfordadvocate

Animal TV Show May Be Forced Off Air

Anne Marie Fuller has taken a worthwhile idea - saving house pets from euthanasia - and turned it into her successful television show, "Helpful Hints With Anne Marie". The monthly half hour, commercial-free show airs on local-access cable television in 18 cities in the San Joaquin Valley, Bay Area and North Coast (California).

Her inspiration for the show came from Daisy, Anne Marie's Siberian husky, who was living the good life in the Fuller household of two parents, two kids, two dogs, three cats and an occasional frog. "I've always loved animals, and I realized and felt sorry for all the animals in shelters that don't get the things that Daisy gets. My show brings attention to the shelter," Fuller said.

But next month could be the last for the popular show since she lost her sponsor - a realtor hit by the recession. May's show is being produced at Fuller's personal expense.

The show's first 15 minutes covers topics such as hot-air ballooning over wine country, accompanying the U.S. Coast Guard on an ocean rescue training mission and learning lifesaving safety rules from the Tracy Fire Department.

The second half of the show features the latest animals housed at the Tracy (CA) Animal Shelter, and promotes the concept of adoption. After 60 shows in five years, Fuller's efforts have paid off with fewer animals killed. In a recent quarter, the Tracy shelter euthanized 288 cats and 72 dogs, but those numbers would be much higher without public awareness, animal services supervisor Ben Miller confirmed. "We love Anne Marie. She's been a constant supporter of ours for a long time. It would be really sad to see her off the air," he said.

Fuller has had another recent setback. Daisy, her Siberian Husky, who is featured at the end of every show and is a fan favorite, died March 22 (2009) at age 14 1/2. Fuller's May broadcast will be dedicated to Daisy and include a 90-second video tribute.

Information: Anne Marie Fuller at annemarietv@juno.com

Source: recordnet.com

Big Bear Love At First Sight

Polar bears Bill (on right) and Lara meet for the first time at a zoo in Germany on Friday, April 17, 2009. Bill came to Germany from the Czech Republic to be Lara's new partner.

Source: yahoo

We All Get Old Sometime....

Most dogs become seniors between the ages of seven and 12, with big dogs aging faster than smaller ones. Here are some of the signs your pooch is starting to feel her age:

• She's not as active as she used to be
• She's slow or stiff when getting up, lying down, or climbing stairs
• She's less social with people and dogs, and more easily rattled by noise and lots of activity
• She startles if you come up behind her--a sign her hearing is starting to go

Adjusting to your dog's senior status There's lots to love about senior dogs they're as happy to skip that 6 a.m. run as you are, for one thing). And in many ways, your life together can stay the same. Your pooch still needs exercise and time with you. And contrary to popular belief, she may not need a special diet. But to make sure your dog's last years are happy ones, you do need to make some changes.

1. Go to the vet twice a year.
You'll catch any treatable diseases earlier, and your vet may be able to ease some of the symptoms of old age, such as incontinence or arthritis pain. Your vet can also check her teeth, which age quickly without proper maintenance.

2. Take care of her teeth.
Speaking of teeth, aim for a brushing session at least three times a week, and get a professional cleaning from your vet if needed. Gum disease is very common in senior dogs, and if an infection in her mouth spreads to other parts of her body, it can cause serious problems. Plus, dental problems make it hard for dogs to eat.

3. Keep her comfortable.

• An orthopedic bed is easier on achy joints. Some even come with heating elements inside.
• Senior dogs often don't get enough water, so station water dishes in her favorite spots around the house.
• Pay more attention to the temperature. Older dogs are more susceptible to getting overheated or chilled.

4. Keep up the exercise, but adjust it to your dog's abilities.
Activity is as important as ever, but don't overdo it. Although her spirit may be willing to play Frisbee all day--she doesn't want to disappoint you--her body may pay the price tomorrow. Keep an eye out for a drooping head and tail; these are signs it's time to call it a day.

5. Stick to a routine.
All dogs love routine, but seniors find abrupt change really upsetting. If you have to go away, hire a dog sitter instead of boarding if you possibly can.

Credit: dogtime.com

Next Time, Look Before You Leap!

A German bus driver was suspended on April 19, 2009 after she stopped her double decker bus to save a frog from being squashed. Passengers were hopping mad when the bus driver, Christina Pommerel, 46, leapt from behind the wheel, rescued the frog, put it in a box and released it on the side of the road.

"I couldn't just squash it," Pommerel, who has been driving buses for 13 years in the southern German city of Regensburg, told daily Die Welt. "I did my job and saved a life," she added.

Irate passengers took a dim view of the rescue mission and complained to the bus company, which suspended the driver. However, after a media uproar and a public outpouring of support for the driver, the company decided the frog-loving driver can resume her duties -- but only if she refrains from such mercy missions in future.

Source: afp

All Hail King Porterhouse!

Porterhouse the Bulldog is crowned the winner of the 30th Drake Relays Beautiful Bulldog Contest on Monday, April 20, 2009, in Des Moines, Iowa. After finishing in second place in 2006 and 2007, this year Porterhouse beat out 49 other contenders from eight states in his quest for the crown. When not attending to his regal duties, 4 year old Porterhouse rules the home of Kevin and Erin Bell of Des Moines, Iowa.

Source: yahoo

Supreme Court to Weigh In on "Crush Videos"

The US Supreme Court will decide next term whether fetish films that depict the killing of small animals and videos of dogfights are protected by constitutional guarantees of free speech.

The justices said they would review, at the request of the federal government, an appeals court decision that said Congress's broad attempt to discourage animal cruelty by outlawing its depiction violates the First Amendment.

The U.S. Court of Appeals for the 3rd Circuit in Philadelphia voted 10 to 3 last summer to find unconstitutional the rarely used law passed by Congress in 1999. The appeals court said the goal of protecting against animal cruelty was a worthy one, but one already accomplished by laws in all 50 states and the District of Columbia outlawing the practice.

The 3rd Circuit noted that the Supreme Court is resistant to removing First Amendment protections of depictions even of illegal actions. The last time the court did so was over child pornography. "Preventing cruelty to animals, although an exceedingly worthy goal, simply does not implicate interests of the same magnitude as protecting children from physical and psychological harm," the 3rd Circuit said.

Congress passed the law in order to combat a phenomenon most people have never heard of: "crush videos." According to the House report that accompanied the bill, crush videos depict "women inflicting . . . torture [on animals] with their bare feet or while wearing high heeled shoes. . . . The cries and squeals of the animals, obviously in great pain, can also be heard in the videos."

The Humane Society of the United States also urged the Supreme Court to review the law, saying that the sale of crush videos on the Internet had "all but disappeared" after the law was passed but that sales had been revived by the decision that the law was unconstitutional. "We wouldn't allow the sale of videos of actual child abuse or murder staged for the express purpose of selling videos of such criminal acts, and the same legal principles apply to despicable acts of animal cruelty," said HSUS's president, Wayne Pacelle.

Source: washingtonpost

Her Birthday Has Gone to the Dogs

Jan Cranston's family decided she didn't need any gifts for her 60th birthday.

Instead, they decided to indulge Cranston's love of animals and help out some cats and dogs in need. Jan's husband, Ken, son, Tim, and daughter, Cindy Junkala held a surprise party for Jan on April 5. Instead of gifts, the guests were asked to bring pet food. The family plans to bring it to the food bank.

"I work for a social service agency and I see a lot of clients with pets. I know that some of the clients can't feed themselves, let alone their pets," said Jan's daughter, Cindy. "It's usually one of the things that they would skip over if they could in order to buy food for themselves or their kids. In the invitation, I put : 'What do you get the woman who has everything? Absolutely nothing. Just bring a donation of a bag of dog or cat food' ".

The guests thought it was a great idea. The family collected more than 30 items, such as large bags of dog food, treats, cat food, toys and a leash.

When Jan showed up at her party, she was delighted with the idea. "I guess I'm the woman that's got everything," she joked. "I thought it was a wonderful idea. Hopefully, it will become a thing that other people will consider doing."

The kind gesture has inspired Jan's children, especially seven-year-old daughter Annelie. She said she is planning on doing the same thing when she celebrates her next birthday.

Source: thesudburystar

Obviously this Chick's Major is Not Humanities....

A female University of Colorado student is charged with felony animal abuse after she taped her boyfriend's puppy to the side of a refrigerator with clear packing tape to teach the dog a "lesson." The dog is an eight-month-old Shiba Inu puppy named "Rex".

The student allegedly was angry at her boyfriend for failing to get rid of the puppy, which she claims bit her a few days ago. In her statement to police, the student said she taped the puppy to the refrigerator "Not long. Like 20-30 minutes. It was just until he calmed down."

Rex, whose paws were bound with elastic hair ties, was clearly in pain and "yelped and screamed loudly" as cops worked to free him. Upon his release from the tape, Rex was motionless, but breathing. Rex was turned over to the Boulder Valley (CO) Humane Society. The student was arrested. The boyfriend, who was not charged with animal abuse, said "We were going to get rid of [Rex] anyway. We usually don't do this."

Source: pet-abuse.com

$8 Billion vs $1 Million = Trustees Suck

In 2007, animal rights groups rejoiced at reports that deceased real estate baroness Leona Helmsley wanted her $6 to $8 Billion dollar estate to go exclusively to dog-related charities. However, a New York court ruled in February 2009 that the estate's trustees had sole authority to decide which charities would receive money.

Today Helmsley's trustees announced its first round of charitable grants -- $136 million to human health-care charities -- with just $1 million going to the dogs. Helmsley's trustees distributed that $1 million evenly ($100,000 each) to ten animal rights groups, including the ASPCA.

Previously in June 2008, Leona Helmsley's now 10 year old Maltese, "Trouble" (pictured above), had her $12 million dollar trust fund established under Helmsley's will, reduced by a Manhattan judge to only $2 million. The judge immediately gave the other $10 million from Trouble's trust fund to the charitable trust. If Trouble dies before she spends her $2 million, the remainder will also revert to the charitable trust.

Despite death threats against Trouble following the announcement of her $12 million trust fund, "Trouble is very much alive and well taken care of. [Trouble] is in this country and she's in a nice warm climate", according to a source close to Trouble.

Source: wcbstv

How Long Will This Last At Your House??

Puppy Piñata is the only interactive "2-in-1" plush dog toy stuffed with a natural treat. The product stimulates a dog's natural instinct or their "inner wolf" and gives them the satisfaction of working for the prey, shaking the toy, opening the secret pocket to the treat, and then conquering the task.

www.puppy-pinata.com

Cougar Prowls Oregon Town

State and federal wildlife agents are tracking a young cougar that was last seen on Sunday (4/19/09) within the Corvallis (Oregon) city limits. The cougar killed a house cat during daylight hours only 300 yards from an elementary school. State officials consider the cat "a possible threat to human safety."

Agents hope to capture the cougar by live trap or snare, or to use tracking dogs in the difficult urban residential environment. Oregon is home to more than 5,000 cougars.

Source: kval

21 Polo Ponies Dead in Florida

Tests are being carried out by the Florida Department of Agriculture and the Palm Beach Sheriff''s Department to determine why 21 polo ponies collapsed and died at the U.S. Open Polo Championship in Palm Beach County (FL) on Sunday, April 19 (2009).

As the horses from a Venezuelan-owned team, valued at $100,000 each, were being unloaded from their horseboxes, several stumbled and fell to the ground. Fourteen horses died by Sunday evening, with seven more dying overnight.

Veterinarians suspect some kind of toxin but it may be several days before the source is identified. Officials have ruled out infectious or contagious disease as only animals from the Venezuelan team were affected.

"The players, the owners of the horses were in tears. Bystanders and volunteers were in tears," Tony Coppola, a polo club announcer, told the Associated Press.

Source: bbc

$7.5 Million Bequest to the Animals

The University of Guelph, Ontario Veterinary College (Canada) has received a $7.5 million bequest from Mona Campbell, the CEO of Dover Industries, who died last year at the age of 89. Ms. Campbell was a fervent animal advocate and arts patron.

Half of the money will be used to support animal welfare research and half will support Canada's first animal cancer center.

In the 20 years prior to her death, Ms. Campbell donated more than $1 million to various programs and efforts, especially those related to animal welfare and equine issues.

Source: therecord.com

Caring for Senior Dogs

Most parents complain about how quickly their kids grow up. Within the blink of an eye, it seems, children go from diapers to diplomas. Now, imagine squeezing an entire life span into just 13 years, which is, on average, about how long dogs live. (People, on the other hand, have an average span of 77.6 years. ) Because dogs age nonlinearly, one human year can be equivalent to seven to 10 dog years. This means not only that puppies grow both physically and socially at a blazing speed, they also become senior citizens at an accelerated rate. And like their human counterparts, diseases such as diabetes, kidney failure, arthritis, dental disease and cancer become more prevalent with increasing age. While we cannot stop the aging process, there are measures we can take to ensure that our pets live long, healthy lives.

No one likes going to the doctor, and dogs are no exception. Nonetheless, geriatric dogs—defined as those seven years or older—should have routine veterinary examinations every six months. This may seem excessive, but it isn’t when you consider that six months is the equivalent of three dog-years. A yearly exam for a dog is equivalent to an exam every seven to 10 years for a human, and no medical doctor would advise seeing elderly human patients so infrequently. These routine exams are important, as they make it more likely that problems can be diagnosed and treated before they become more difficult to manage.

During these visits, the veterinarian will perform a complete physical and oral exam, and will also ask you about any changes you may have observed in your dog’s behavior or activity. Since dogs cannot tell us their symptoms, it is important that we observe them as we go about our daily routines, because changes in appetite, thirst, behavior and weight may signal the onset of disease.

Diagnostics Make a Difference
Studies have shown that 22 percent of apparently healthy senior dogs actually have some level of clinical disease, which is diagnosed through the use of screening tests. Diagnostic tests, like blood panels and x-rays, are used commonly with people; doctors rely on the results of tests such as prostate specific antigen (PSA) levels, cholesterol levels and mammograms to diagnose disease early. Similarly, using their patient’s blood and urine samples, veterinarians can screen for diabetes; anemia; and liver, kidney and thyroid disease. Radiographs, or x-rays, are used to look for arthritis, cancer and heart disease.

While dental disease is not unique to older dogs, it is usually more advanced in seniors due to years of neglect. Just imagine what your teeth would look like if you never brushed them. And it’s not just cosmetic—untreated dental disease can lead to more than just bad breath, but can result in difficulty eating, pain, tooth loss and the spread of infection throughout the body. A proper dental cleaning requires general anesthesia. While anesthesia in older animals may sound scary, age alone is not a risk factor. Here again, screening tests are important, since older animals are more likely to have conditions that require special care when using anesthesia. Your veterinarian will determine if your senior dog needs a dental cleaning and is healthy enough to undergo this procedure safely.

Lumps and Bumps
In between veterinary visits, check your pet for new lumps or bumps. Cancer is the number-one cause of death in dogs and is found predominantly in older pets. All lumps are abnormal, but not all endanger your pet’s health. Benign tumors are generally less of an issue, as they usually grow slowly and do not invade surrounding tissues. Malignant tumors, on the other hand, are more aggressive; they grow faster, invade surrounding tissues and often spread throughout the body (metastatic disease).

The shape, appearance, size and location of the mass can give your veterinarian clues as to whether the mass is benign or malignant. However, only a pathologist (who examines the tumor cells with a microscope) can make a definitive diagnosis. Your veterinarian will want to get a specimen, which can be obtained with fine needle aspiration or incisional or excisional biopsy, and send it to pathology. Once the mass is diagnosed, your veterinarian can discuss what treatment—if any—is needed.

The subject of cancer is as scary in pets as it is in humans, but fortunately, there have been significant advances in cancer treatment for our canine companions. Like us, our dogs can benefit from better imaging, such as MRIs and CT scans, and advanced treatment options, which include surgery, chemotherapy and radiation. Ultimately, the key to fighting cancer is early detection. Monitor your furry companion carefully.

Getting old is a normal and inevitable part of life. Though we cannot stop aging, we can take measures to ensure that our dogs’ senior years are truly their “Golden Years.”

Credit: thebark.com

When Cats Pray

Protecting Pets From Domestic Violence

Massachusetts lawmakers and animal rights advocates are lobbying to pass legislation to allow the inclusion of pets in domestic violence temporary restraining orders.

The Massachusetts Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals cites studies that show 48% of people would not leave or would return to a violent relationship because they feared what would happen to their pet.

States that have passed similar legislation include Maine, New York, California and Illinois.

Source: thebostonchannel

Fly the (Pet) Friendly Skies!

Almost 76 million cats and dogs travel with their owners each year. Despite the high number of pets traveling, few travel by air.

Many airlines announced recently they will no longer accept pets on board their planes.

To serve that "pawsenger" market niche, Pet Airways of Delray Beach (FL) has announced that it will become the first pet airlines in the US ready to fly on July 14th. All pets will travel in the main cabin not in the cargo hold. Five cities will be served to start - New York, Washington D.C., Chicago, Denver and Los Angeles.

From the moment a pet is dropped off at its pet lounge, the pet will be under the care of trained pet attendants, where pets will fly in planes that are fully-lit, climate-controlled and have the fresh air circulation that pets require.

The airline also stated that it hopes to expand nationwide with easily accessible pet check-in lounges to serve the animals in major metropolitan areas.

Source: cbs4

Fit Pets = Happy Pets!

Weight problems are common in cats and dogs, and can be managed successfully through changes in food or a nutrition program. Combining a change in nutrition with increased exercise is the most effective way of achieving a healthy weight.

Exercise tips for cats

- Encourage your cat to follow you when you move from room to room, particularly up and down stairs

- Use toys to encourage your cat to play, or hide food and make him or her "hunt" for it

- Shine a flashlight on walls or floor for your cats to chase

Exercise tips for dogs

- Enjoy regular walks with your dog

- Walking at a constant pace will help burn calories

- Encourage play in the yard and in the home

- Toss a flying disc or a ball or play a retrieval game

Weight gain is the result of an increase in body fat. This is usually caused by eating too much, especially when combined with lack of exercise but there can be other contributing factors too:

- Age: Older pets are less active, have less energy and require fewer calories

- Breed: Some breeds are more likely to gain weight. These include Labrador retrievers, Cocker and King Charles Spaniels and mixed breed cats

- Neutering/spaying: Clinical studies have shown that the basic metabolism of neutered pets is lower. Neutered pets actually require fewer calories.

- Medical problems: Very occasionally, weight gain is associated with a medical disorder that may require specific treatment such as a low thyroid.

All pets have an ideal weight for their size and breed. Your veterinarian will be able to tell you what this is, and show you how to check your pet is maintaining a healthy weight.

Source: normantranscript.com

April is "Ape Awareness Month"

Momma Sophia and her six month old baby enjoy Ape Awareness Month at the Chicago Zoo.

Source: Chicago Zoological Society

A Dog Named Beau

Pentagon Blasts Pigs

Military researchers have dressed live pigs in body armor, strapped them into Humvee simulators and blown them up with explosives to study the link between roadside bomb blasts and brain injury.

Blasting pigs raises "red flags," said Martin Stephens, VP for animal research issues at the Humane Society of the United States. "This is a worthy goal, trying to prevent soldiers from being injured by roadside bombs," Stephens said. "I think the relevance of this is highly questionable. People are not pigs."

Scientists discovered details that will help protect troops, said Michael Leggieri, director of the Pentagon's Blast Injury Research Program. "The bottom line to everything we do in this program is to protect the soldier," he said.

U.S. car companies used live animals, including pigs, for crash tests until the early 1990s. They stopped after protests from animal rights groups, such as People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals.

Source: usatoday

I've Fallen Over You, Fido!

Every day approximately 240 Americans wind up in a hospital emergency room due to sprains, fractures or other injuries from a fall involving a dog or cat. Researchers at the Center for Disease Control and Prevention said dogs and cats account for 88 percent of all fall-related injuries reported in emergency departments.

In its report on death and disease, the CDC reports that dogs or cats cause an estimated 86,600 falls per year. Women are 2.1 times more likely to have a pet-related fall than men.

Tripping is the biggest risk. About 31 percent of dog-related and 66 percent of cat-related injuries were caused by tripping. Another 21 percent of dog-related injuries occurred when people fell after being pushed or pulled by dogs.

Source: reuters

Babe the Two-Legged Dog

Fido's Ridin' In Style...

Japanese auto maker Honda Motor Company unveiled the "pet friendly" version of its Element utility vehicle at the New York Auto Show. It features a cushioned dog bed in the trunk, built-in water bowl, easy-wash seat covers, a cooling fan, a ramp to help less agile dogs climb in and a paw logo on the side. Honda said the car will go on sale across the United States in Fall 2009.

The current model of the Element starts at a little over $20,000. Honda has yet to determine how much the pet friendly features will add on to the price tag.

Source: reuters

Our New First Dog -- "Bo"

"Bo Obama", a 6-month-old Portuguese Water Dog, has arrived at the White House. Malia, 10, and Sasha, 7, picked the pup's name. Bo is a gift from Senator Ted Kennedy, who owns three dogs of the same breed. Portuguese Water Dogs are high-spirited animals and are good for people with allergies, like Malia.

Source: ivilliage

Tiny Paws = No Insurance??

Some insurance companies are refusing to write policies for households with small breed dogs. Where do insurance companies get their lists of what they perceive to be "aggressive" dogs? As it turns out, there's no standard list insurance companies follow. Insurance companies go by the average number of bites reported by a certain breed.

The Humane Society of the United States reports that the bite list changes from year to year and from one area of the country to another, depending on the popularity of the breed. Just a few years ago, the Doberman was the breed to fear. Now, pit bulls and Rottweilers rule. Other studies place dachshunds, Chihuahuas, Jack Russell terriers, Labradors and golden retrievers in the high-bite risk category.

Recent statistics reveal that dog-bite claims nationwide grew 10.5 percent from 2006 to 2007 and account for one-third of all homeowner's claims. In 2007, dog-bite claims paid by insurance averaged $24,511 each.

You can usually find an insurance company that doesn't discriminate by dog breed and will insure you. But if you can't, get an umbrella policy that extends your insurance policy beyond your traditional coverage and includes your dog. An umbrella policy may cost between $250 and $300 per year. The insurance carriers that do discriminate by breed are the smaller companies that are nervous about the liability and the bad press that cames from a dog-bite case. Consider using an independent agent that is more dog-friendly and doesn't tend to discriminate.

Source: walletpop.com

German Cat Using His Nine Lives

On April 7, a 12 year old cat named "Felix" was found alive and well beneath the rubble of a six-story city archives building that collapsed on March 3, 2009 in Cologne, Germany.

Felix was in surprisingly good health, authorities said. Rescue workers were clearing away the rubble from the ruins, in which two people were killed, when they spotted a pair of small paws. "The men lifted some concrete blocks when suddenly a little cat came to light," said Dietmar Paust, Cologne fire brigade spokesman.

Source: reuters

Activists Gone Wild!

In "Shadows of Death" (Minotaur Books, $29.95 hardcover), author David Sundstrand introduces readers to a new brand of serial killers -- enraged animal-rights activists.

Ranger Frank Flynn investigates the murder of two poachers who had been slaughtering wild burros in the Mojave Desert. Then the murder is linked to an unusual series of crimes in Southern California: a commercial fisherman who cut the beaks off pelicans is found dead and lipless; another who ran a dogfighting ring is killed by his own dogs; two boys who posted a YouTube video of themselves blowing up cats are missing and not expected to be found.

The crimes are alleged to have been committed by an animal-rights terrorist group that is particularly incensed by hunters who boost their reputations by making trophy kills at commercial hunting resorts.

"Shadows of Death" isn't great literature, but it is a fun read that touches on a variety of thought-provoking issues. The book's irreverent Native Indian protagonist and austere desert setting will also have particular appeal for fans of Western mysteries.

Source: elpasotimes.com

India Bans Animals as Election Symbols

Political parties in India no longer opt for animals as election symbols, but they are not acting solely out of love for the creatures.

Persistent opposition by animal rights activists has led India's Election Commission to ban the use of animal symbols. Citing laws preventing cruelty to animals, the animal activists complained that political parties were parading hapless creatures during campaigns and subjecting them to cruelty. The only exceptions to the ban are the Lion (presently used as the Forward Bloc Party symbol) and the Elephant (used by the Bahujan Samaj Party and Asom Gana Parishad).

Source: thehindu.com

Doga -- Wellness for You & Your Pooch

"Downward-facing dog" is no longer just for humans. Nationwide, classes of "doga" — or yoga with dogs — are increasing in number and popularity. Doga combines massage and meditation with gentle stretching for dogs and their human partners. In chaturanga, dogs sit with their front paws in the air while their human partners provide support. In an “upward-paw pose,” or sun salutation, owners lift dogs onto their hind legs. In a resting pose, the person reclines, with legs slightly bent over the dog’s torso, bolster-style, to relieve pressure on the spine.

Doga instructors are not required to complete certification, though teacher training seminars do exist. Instructors learn informally by sharing techniques. Guiding these techniques is a general philosophy: Because dogs are pack animals, they are a natural match for yoga’s emphasis on union and connection with other beings.

Source: nytimes

Noah Saves Orphaned Baby Bunnies!

Momma Bunny and her six-day old babies were attacked by a dog. Momma and two baby bunnies perished. Three surviving baby bunnies were taken to rehab, but were not doing very well.

Then the babies were noticed by "Noah", a one-legged homing pigeon living at the rehab center. Noah kept going over to the bunny cage and looking in...even sleeping in front of the door to the cage.

Now, Noah has adopted the baby bunnies and the bunnies are doing great. When the bunnies scoot underneath Noah's feathers, he extends his wings out to surround them and they snuggle. When one of the bunnies moves and they start sticking out here and there, Noah gently pushes them back under him with his beak!

Momma's Little Helpers

A female cat named "Tom" is proving that cats and dogs can live together in harmony, at least in one home in Urumqi (China). In addition to caring for the two puppies, Tom has trained them to chase after mice.

The cat adopted the puppies after their mother died giving birth to them, according to Tom's owner. Tom also recently gave birth to three kittens. The two puppies feed on her milk.

Source: chinadaily.com

Tobacco is Toxic for Toto Too!

The American Legacy Foundation is challenging pet owners to quit smoking for their pets during the month of April, which kicks off Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Month. A growing body of research shows there are no safe levels of exposure to secondhand smoke -- for humans or for animals. And one new study shows that nearly 30 percent of pet owners live with at least one smoker.

"While most Americans have been educated about the dangers of smoking to their own bodies, it is equally important that pet owners take action to protect their beloved domestic pets from the dangers of secondhand smoke", said Dr. Cheryl G. Healton, President and CEO of the American Legacy Foundation.

An estimated 50,000 Americans lose their lives to secondhand smoke annually. A number of studies have indicated that animals, too, face health risks when exposed to the toxins in secondhand smoke from respiratory problems, allergies and even nasal and lung cancer in dogs and lymphoma in cats. In addition, the ASPCA lists tobacco smoke as a toxin that is dangerous to pets.

Source: medicalnewstoday.com

Navy SEAL Captures Men Who Killed His Therapy Dog

Last week, Texas resident and former Navy SEAL Marcus Luttrell, the lone survivor of a fierce fight in Afghanistan, found his beloved therapy dog, a white Labrador named "Dasy", lying dead in a ditch. She'd been shot in the left shoulder. Luttrell used his SEAL skills to track down the two men he saw do it.

Luttrell got in his truck and chased the vehicle and its four occupants more than 20 miles through three counties, driving at speeds over 100 miles an hour before making a citizen's arrest near Onalaska (TX). Luttrell stayed on the cell telephone with a 911 operator the entire time.

Two of the men in that car have been charged with cruelty and torture to a non-livestock animal. Investigators say they are suspects in at least three other similar cases.

Luttrell received his dog from America's Vet Dogs, a group that provides service and guide dogs to members of the military. The dog services are provided at no cost to veterans.

"Some people think dogs are dogs," said Luttrell. "This was my rehab dog that I got after I got shot up in Afghanistan. It's not just a dog. To me it's like my daughter. I want them prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law," he said. "I mean, they murdered my dog. That's a member of my family. That's murder."

Source: pet-abuse.com

Why Did the Salamander Cross the Road...??

On a recent night in New Haven, Vermont, 45 people volunteered to carry salamanders, frogs and newts across the road during their annual migration to mate.

On rainy nights in early spring, roads between forests and vernal pools are hopping and crawling with activity. From rural Vermont to urban centers like Philadelphia, human escorts, called "bucket brigades", help amphibians make it to their mating areas without getting squashed by cars.

Vermont is considering installing tunnels under the road for amphibians and other animals to use. The town has received a $25,000 grant to pay for the engineering. The full project could cost up to $350,000.

Source: ap

Over 2,000 Pets Homeless after Italian Earthquake

Assistance has started to arrive for 2,000+ cats and dogs left homeless by the recent earthquake in and around L'Aquila, Italy. Relief included medical supplies, materials to build kennels and microchip readers.

Many pets and farm animals are believed to have died in houses and barns that collapsed during the quake. Those that survived are showing signs of trauma, rescue officials said. Many sheep and other farm animals were abandoned and will probably starve if they cannot be reached. Late Wednesday evening in L'Aquila, a Yorkshire Terrier walked in circles, ignoring a policeman's offer of a sandwich. "I see a lot of these poor dogs," said the policeman. "You can tell they are domestic pets because they are healthy and well-fed, but they look lost and frightened."

Source: ap

Frozen MD Puppy Adopted!

HAGERSTOWN, MD - The puppy that was found frozen to the ground in January (2009) has found a new home. (See February 19, 2009 entry for original story)

Duncan, a Rottweiler / Husky mix, is leaving the Washington County Humane Society on Friday and going home with his new Forever Family.

When Duncan was seven weeks old, he was found tied to a tree overnight in the freezing cold. He was literally frozen to the ground and since he was rescued, Duncan has been treated for exposure and mange.

Duncan's new family includes a mom, dad, a 7-year old brother, a 3-old sister and a German Shepherd friend named Bishop.

Source: your4state.com, herald-mail.com

You're A Cute Little Monkey!

76 year old Woman Fights Undercover for Animals

She doesn't look like a dedicated undercover operative, this 76-year-old animal lover with arthritic knees. But she is. Now Helen Smith is expected to provide key testimony against a veterinarian who serves some of Pennsylvania's big dog-breeding kennels and who has been charged with animal cruelty on allegations that he mutilated a puppy's tail.

"I seem harmless," Smith said yesterday, describing how she gets around with a cane. In fact, "I'm not harmless at all."

On March 10, 2009, Smith went to Country Lane Kennels in New Providence, PA accompanied by an undercover officer from the PA SPCA. While there, Smith unexpectedly witnessed the act that led to a first-degree misdemeanor charge against Thomas F. Stevenson of the Twin Valley Veterinary Clinic in Honey Brook, PA. A police criminal complaint states that Stevenson treated a 9-week-old mixed poodle's already injured and bleeding tail by "soaking it in scalding water" and then cutting it off with shears "without sedation or prior numbing of the tail."

"The dog was screaming, and screaming, and screaming," Smith said yesterday. "You could see the blood. You could see the exposed bone."

Smith is the mother of Bill Smith, founder of Main Line Animal Rescue in Chester Springs (PA), which has strived to improve conditions for thousands of dogs in PA's puppy mills. As Bill Smith began to be more recognized, making it hard for him to get into kennels, his mother started taking his place.

Helen Smith has been infiltrating kennels for close to a decade, scoping out conditions, rescuing animals, and informing authorities of what she finds. Many places she visits are feces-laden warehouses where dogs are confined in small pens. Smith said yesterday that, given the publicity surrounding this case, her undercover career was probably over. The retired mother of three will continue to volunteer for Main Line Animal Rescue - and to follow her favorite TV show, Law & Order.

Source: philly.com

Dog Overboard!!

A dog that fell overboard in rough seas off Australia has been reunited with her owners after surviving alone on an island for four months.

"Sophie Tucker", an Australian cattle dog, fell overboard as she sailed with her family through choppy waters off the northeast Queensland coast in November 2008.

The dog was believed to have drowned, but Sophie Tucker swam five nautical miles to largely uninhabited St Bees Island, where she survived on her own by catching and eating feral baby goats.

Rangers captured Sophie Tucker and returned her to her family last week. According to her owners, Sophie is in good shape and is quickly readjusting to the comforts of home.

Source: afp

Yorkie Puppy Killed by Boyfriend

A Michigan man fatally injured a 3-month-old Yorkshire Terrier puppy that was trying to protect its female owner from the man's assault.

When the man started choking and punching his girlfriend, the 3-pound puppy began nipping at the man's ankles. The man picked up the dog and severely twisted its neck with his hands. The girlfriend then twice stabbed the man in the right arm with a steak knife.

After the attack, the man initially told police that he fell on the dog. The Yorkie puppy suffered severe bruises on its lungs causing the lungs to fill with blood. The puppy went into respiratory arrest and had to be euthanized.

The man is charged with animal torture, a felony punishable by up to four years in prison in Michigan.

Source: Detroit Free Press 3-31-2009, pet-abuse.com

Building Fido's Castle

Here are 10 practical and visually appealing design ideas you can use when remodeling with your pet in mind:

• Indoor Pet Retreats. These rooms are generally located by an outside back door, with a lockable exterior access door designed for your pet to go inside and out. These pet retreats sport automatic feeders and drinking fountains, and some feature a doggy shower.

• Disguised Litter Boxes. Apart from offering privacy, many of these designs resemble furniture. Some cat box designs are situated in a separate room such as a with access provided by a secret cat door hidden inside a cabinet.

• Heated Floors. Pets appreciate warm floors as much as humans. Just ask cats who curl up to radiators.

• Platform Beds. Much like one would design a window seat, these beds are attached to the wall, and are much less expensive to build than, say, buying a Gucci doggy bed.

• Cat Ramps and Cat Trees. Cat ramps are stairs that diagonally run up a wall to meet a shelf, which runs below and along the perimeter of the ceiling. Floor-to-ceiling cat trees are constructed like columns throughout the home and wrapped in carpet or rope.

• Doggy Overlooks. This design feature lets your dog stick his head through a square opening on the second floor, so your dog can keep tabs on his owners below.

• Wood Floors / High-End Linoleum. While it may seem like an oxymoron, expensive linoleum floors are becoming popular because they offer easy clean up after pet accidents. Wood floors are easier to maintain than carpet, and light to medium finishes minimize scratches.

• Storage Rooms. For people who purchase pet supplies in bulk, special storage rooms are a terrific solution for storing bags of pet food, cat litter and other pet supplies.

• Built-in Benches With Removable Covers. These look like a bench, but open the cover and it's a toy box. It's also a convenient place to stash leashes and large doggy balls.

• Stain-Resistant Fabrics and Carpeting. Pet owners who don't like the look of shedding hair choose fabrics, rugs and non-toxic carpeting that match their pet's fur.

Credit: about.com

The Big Move: If Fido Ain't Happy, You Ain't Happy....

If you and your pet are getting ready to move, follow these recommendations to keep your companion safe on moving day.

• Plan ahead. Advance planning will make your move less stressful on you and your pet. Pack over a period of time, and try to maintain your pet's normal routine.
• Invest in a high-quality, sturdy pet carrier. If you have a dog or cat whom you want to keep safely confined on moving day, get a carrier ahead of time and gradually accustom your pet to spending time in it.
• Purchase a new ID tag for your pet. As soon as you know your new address, get a pet ID tag that includes your new address and telephone number(s). (Or obtain some other visible form of pet identification such as a collar with ID information imprinted on it or an identification band that attaches to the collar but does not dangle like a traditional tag.) An up-to-date ID tag is a lost pet's ticket home.
• Keep your pet secure. On moving day, place your pet (whether in the carrier or not) in a safe, quiet place, such as the bathroom, so that he or she cannot escape. Place a large sign on the door that says, DO NOT ENTER, and be sure that friends and professional movers are aware that the room is off-limits.
• Make your car trip safe. If you're traveling by car and your dog enjoys car travel, you may want to accustom him to a restraining harness. Because most cats aren't comfortable traveling in cars, it's best (for their safety as well as yours) to transport them in a well-ventilated and securely placed carrier. Never leave pets alone in a parked vehicle during warm weather as the temperature rises quickly and can injure or kill them. In any season, a pet in a parked vehicle is vulnerable to being harmed or stolen. Never put an animal in the trunk of a car, the open bed of a pickup truck, or the storage area of a moving van.
• Talk to your veterinarian. If your pet doesn't enjoy car rides, consult your veterinarian about behavior modification or medication that might lessen the stress of travel. Depending on your destination, your pet may also need additional vaccinations, medications, and health certificates.
• Find hotels in advance. Listings of animal-friendly hotels will help you find overnight lodging during your move. The website: http://www.hsus.org has useful resources and will help get your planning on track.
• Plan ahead for air travel. Check with your veterinarian, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and the airline if your pet will be flying. You will need to take precautions to ensure your pet's safety, so give yourself ample time to work out all the arrangements.
• Prepare your new home. Take with you all the familiar and necessary things your pet will need from day one in your new home: food, water, medications, bed, litter box, food and water bowls, and health records. Also have on hand a recent photo of your pet, for use if your pet becomes lost.

Credit: hsus.org

Cat Haiku

You never feed me.
Perhaps I'll sleep on your face.
That will sure show you.

You *must* scratch me there!
Yes, above my tail!
Behold, elevator butt.

The rule for today:
Touch my tail, I shred your hand.
New rule tomorrow.

Grace personified.
I leap into the window.
I meant to do that.

Blur of motion, then --
Silence, me, a paper bag.
What is so funny?

You're always typing.
Well, let's see you ignore my
sitting on your hands.

Credit: travelingdogs.com

Doggy Wrapping Paper

We’ve got the perfect accoutrement for gracious gift giving, and no the “…but Dogs can’t open wrapping paper!” argument does not apply here. Whimsy Press has created 4 insanely beautiful wrapping paper lines specifically for dogs. They have breed specific papers for Spaniels, Goldens and Weiner dogs and a catch-all Mutt edition. If you’re going to give a super-fresh designer sweater or killer leather collar & leash set - why show up with it in a paper bag? Go for the “Golden Friend Award” with some of their wrapping techniques - and totally bust out a gift to be remembered.

Credit: pupstyle.com