Changing lives with guide dogs: Walk raised $5,000 for program

Faith has become a lifeline for Melody Wright-Sampson, who is both hearing and visually impaired.

Faith is her two year old a chocolate lab that assists Wright-Sampson with her daily activities by finding obstacles, curbs, stairs and doors.

Wright-Sampson was born with impaired hearing and developed visual impairment about 13 years ago, which left her with limited peripheral vision. At first she tried walking with a cane, but found it difficult and she was always worried about tripping people with it.Then she heard about the Lion’s Club of Canada’s program that paid for the costs of guide dogs for those in need.

The program raises and trains dogs for those who are visually impaired, have hearing impairments, those who are epileptic and other special needs.

The cost of training a guide dog is between $12,000 and $15,000, while training a special needs dog is closer to $20,000. About 50 dogs and their owners walked from Lee Park along the waterfront Sunday afternoon to raise funds for the Lion’s program and get dogs to those in need in their community.

The wait time for getting a guide dog is between two and three years, but when Wright-Sampson applied last May, she was told within two weeks that she would get a dog by the summer.

In June she went to the training facility in Oakville, Ont. where she met Faith for the first time, and learned her special abilities and how to walk with her. Faith is now Wright-Sampson eyes at night and in low light, when she cannot see anything.

Wright-Sampson always assumed the guide dogs were for those who were completely blind of deaf, but now she recommends them for anyone with a disability.

“With her my life is totally different,” she said. “She is also a great companion.”

Sunday’s walk, hosted by the Widdifield Lions Club, raised around $5,000 for the guide dog program. (Source: JENNY POTTER, THE NUGGET)

Male hummingbirds faster than fighter jets?

A hummingbird feeds a stem Gladiolus after an afternoon rain shower July 22, 2006 in Owings, Maryland. (Mark Wilson, Getty Images)

Male hummingbirds can gather up speeds "greater than fighter jets" when they are trying to impress a potential mate.

A U.S.-based researcher has filed the birds' dives on special equipment that catch the full speed of the dive. They were lured into putting on a mating show by stuffed female birds.

In work published in the Proceedings of the Royal Society B, the male hummingbirds reached speeds of almost 400 body lengths per second.

Christopher Clark from the University of California Berkeley filmed the courtship dives of male Anna's hummingbirds on cameras able to capture 500 frames per second.

Clark adds that the birds' top speed was "greater than (that) of a fighter jet with its afterburners on, or the space shuttle during atmospheric re-entry".

Pets benefit from accupuncture

The use of acupuncture is growing in popularity among veterinarians and the practitioners say they are impressed with the results.

Retired medical technician Jason Smith had exhausted the medical options for his little canine friend of 10 years. "Sampson" had suffered from severe chronic allergies that could only be controlled by ever-increasing doses of steroids.

Now his buddy had just been diagnosed with a serious heart condition and Sampson's veterinarian was concerned that the allergy medications would make the heart disease worse.

"Ten years isn't old for a Shitzu and I wasn't prepared to give up. My veterinarian had heard that acupuncture might help Sampson with his allergies. He felt that if we could just control Sampson's allergies without using steroids, his heart condition would be more manageable. He referred us to a veterinary acupuncturist," Smith said.

Sampson responded well to acupuncture. Within hours of his first treatment, his constant scratching had lessened dramatically. Within a month, he no longer needed his steroid medication. It has been two years since Sampson took his last pill, and his allergies are controlled by acupuncture treatments once every eight weeks. His heart disease is managed well with conventional veterinary medicine.

"Sampson really likes his acupuncture treatment. Because he responded so well, I began going to a human acupuncturist myself," Smith said.

The use of acupuncture in veterinary medicine is growing. In 1998, the American Association of Equine Practitioners reported that only 16.6 percent of respondents used acupuncture in their practices. By 2002, that percentage had risen to 33.1 percent. Success stories like Sampson are driving the interest in veterinary acupuncture. At a recent Western Veterinary Conference, an acupuncture wet lab was filled to capacity with veterinarians interested in learning more about this "alternative" therapy.

As interest and application of acupuncture grows in veterinary medicine, practitioners are using the modality for much more than pain control. In fact, acupuncture can be used to help treat allergies, seizures, reproductive problems, and liver and kidney disease.

Acupuncture involves the insertion of small gauge needles to various points on the body in order to cause physiological responses in the body. It can be especially useful in relieving pain. Acupuncture is used in China as a part of Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine (TCVM).

The practice of TCVM is an entire medical system which also includes food therapy, herbal prescription medications, massage therapy (known as "tui-na") and addressing emotional, behavioral, and home environmental issues.

Acupuncture works by stimulating nerve endings near acupuncture points. These nerve fibers then conduct impulses to the brain and spinal cord, causing changes in the body that speed healing.

Animal owners are showing a growing interest in this field in an effort to find the best care for their pets, especially when conventional medicine and surgery options may not have been successful.

Some veterinary acupuncturists believe that acupuncture works by stimulating energy flow. Dr. Huisheng Xie, DVM, PhD is a third generation practitioner of traditional Chinese medicine and is on the faculty at the University of Florida in Gainesville. In a recent article in Veterinary Practice News he explains the differences between Western and Chinese medical practice.

"In general, Western medicine believes in control, while traditional Chinese medicine believes in balance. Western medicine seeks to diagnose and address the symptoms, while traditional Chinese medicine seeks to determine the underlying cause and to restore the flow of energy and balance in the body," he said.

While increasing numbers of veterinarians are becoming more comfortable with acupuncture as a treatment option for some of their patients, there remain skeptics.

Dr. Bonnie Beaver, professor in the department of small animal medicine and surgery at Texas A&M University said, "There is very little in scientific peer-reviewed journals about these alternative modalities. Until you can develop techniques that can be evaluated and scientifically replicated, you can't be sure it works."

While critics of veterinary acupuncture argue there is little scientific proof the modality "works," in reality, thousands of scientific papers have been published on acupuncture, both from the standpoint of how it works and what it treats.

Gayla Gaskin, an air-traffic controller at DFW airport and an avid dog-lover doesn't care that there may not be "scientific proof" that acupuncture is effective. She believes otherwise.

"When my dog, Katie, was diagnosed with end-stage kidney disease, the doctors gave her a few weeks to live. She was very weak and uncomfortable. I'd do anything for her and had heard that acupuncture might help. She got treatments every other week and not only did her appetite improve, she wanted to play again and felt better. Acupuncture may not have "cured" her kidney disease, but it certainly extended her life by nine months and most important, it was a good quality of life," she said.

As with any medical treatment, successful veterinary acupuncture depends upon the training, knowledge and skill of the practitioner. Pet owners interested in acupuncture should ask their primary veterinarian for a referral to a well-qualified colleague.

For more information on veterinary acupuncture visit The American Academy of Veterinary Acupuncture at www.aava.org.

Budgie Buddies Encounter

MINOCQUA - It's hard to imagine what it would feel like to be in a room with 700 birds.

Now, you don't have to imagine it, you can actually experience it at the Wildwood Wildlife Park.

It might sound a bit strange, or even scary, but a new exhibit at the Wildwood Wildlife Park gives you the chance to get up close and personal with birds.

There's no lack of chirping in this new exhibit at Widwood Wildlife Park in Minocqua. It's pretty safe to say there's no lack of fun here at the "Budgie Buddies" Encounter as well.

Duane Domaszek. the Owner of Wildwood Wildlife Park, says "We opened it up Memorial weekend and it's just been phenominal as far as the feedback for it."

The inspiration for the Parakeet aviary came from a zoo in Omaha. Wildwood Wildlife Park owners saw something similar to this, and decided it was time to bring this to the Northwoods. Students and parents from Sacred Heart School in Polonia say being so close to 700 birds at once is quite an experience.

Karen Yach, who is enjoying the exhibit, says "It's awesome. Just being around the birds and at first I thought I'd be a little afraid, but not at all."

Mercedes Gagas, who is enjoying the exhibit, says "I think it's really cool to know the birds like the food and to feel so close to it."

Tara Yach, who is enojying the exhibit as well, says "It's fun because all the birds come to eat with you."

Nicole Wierzba, who really likes the exhibit, says "Sometimes they stay on your stick and they eat on your stick when you're holding it like that."

The owners here at Wildwood Wildlife say they're happy that the new exhibit is such a hit with all the people and they're also happy that they're the first in the state to have something like this.

Duane Domaszek says "It's pretty cool because word of mouth has already spread and we have people calling from all over the state already who have heard about it and now they're heading up to the Northwoods to see it."

There's definitely plenty to see, with every bird having it's own unique coloring. While every budgie looks different, they're all pretty brave when it comes to flying close to humans.

Nicole Wierzba says "It feels really cool."

Karen Yach says "It's a little crazy, but you get used to it after a little while.

There's no doubt about it these students are used to it, and would spend the entire day in this exhibit with the birds if they could.

The exhibit is open everyday and will be closing Labor Day.

The Owner of Wildwood says local businesses like J.J. Acres and the Pond Shop had a lot to do with making their dream of opening the exhibit a reality. (Source: Janelle Dobson)

Pet food withdrawn after mystery illness

THE third contaminated pet food scare in six months has upset veterinarians and prompted calls for stronger regulations.

The Australian company Virbac has pulled some products from veterinarians' shelves after small-animal specialists established a possible link between Vietnamese-made dog dental chews and an outbreak of mysterious illnesses in dogs.

Dr Justin Wimpole, the senior registrar at the Small Animal Specialist Hospital, North Ryde, identified the possible link between the animal health pharmaceutical company's VeggieDent Chews and a variety of symptoms including increased urination, thirst, lethargy and diarrhoea in about eight dogs.

A Virbac spokesman said there had been no proof of a causal link with the VeggieDent product range, but it had removed the products as a precaution in the interests of animal welfare and the veterinary profession.

While the Australian Veterinary Association praised the company for its prompt voluntary recall of its products, which are only available from vets, the association's president, Mark Lawrie, said the spate of contamination scares highlighted the dearth of national regulations overseeing the safety of pet food.

"There are no regulations or legislation which focus on pet food safety," Dr Lawrie said. "We've got strong biosecurity regulations to stop diseases getting into the country [from imported pet food].

"While we have regulations for controlling disease outbreaks in agricultural animals, apart from quarantine laws there are no overarching federal regulations to protect the health of our dogs and cats."

Last month the federal Minister for Agriculture, Tony Burke, ordered the 10-year practice of irradiating imported dry cat food to cease, after a link was established between the irradiated Orijen brand of cat food and the deaths of about 30 cats and serious illnesses in another 60. (Source: Kelly Burke, Consumer Affairs Reporter)

ChemNutra Inc. and owners Stephen and Sally Miller have signed a plea agreement admitting to 27 misdemeanor counts of distributing adulterated and/or misbranded food and one felony count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud, PetProductsNews.com reported Wednesday. They will formally enter their pleas June 16 in federal court in Kansas City, Mo.

WLAS-TV reported the tainted wheat gluten ChemNutra provided to pet-food manufacturers led to mass pet-food recalls after thousands of dogs and cats were sickened or killed.

While terms of the plea agreement were not disclosed, each misdemeanor could be punished by up to a year in prison and a $100,000 fine for the Millers and $200,000 for the company, the report said. The felony count carries a prison term of up to five years and a $250,000 fine for Millers and $500,000 for the company. They also could be ordered to pay restitution.

While the government claimed ChemNutra and the Millers knew their Chinese broker had used inaccurate custom codes to prevent inspection in China and that they distributed misbranded wheat gluten that overstated its protein content, prosecutors did not accuse the Millers or ChemNutra of knowing the wheat gluten was adulterated with melamine. (Source UPI News Service)

"When I picked him up last time, he was all played out," Linnea Olsson said of Tucker. "He was really happy."

That is the kind of testimonial veterinarian Ken Judson and his wife, Carla, hope to build on while their new business, The Lodge at New Tampa, establishes a client base.

Open for less than a month, The Lodge is a luxury boarding kennel that caters to dogs, cats, birds, reptiles and small exotic animals owned by pet lovers willing to pay a little extra to ensure the family pet enjoys top-notch accommodations at its temporary home away from home.

The interior of The Lodge appears more appropriate for a Kentucky Derby winner, but there is no room at the inn for thoroughbred horses. The Lodge was built with man's best friend in mind.

Johnny Cash, a 5-year-old golden retriever, and Tucker, a 98-pound Labradoodle, were among the first dogs to board at the animal lodge. Sushi was the first cat there.

"The pets seem to really enjoy coming here," Ken Judson said. "I haven't seen one yet that had to be pulled through the door."

The facility offers high-end pet services, from pet spas to day care to individual suites and condominiums. Most services cost less than $70 a day, the Judsons said.

More than 200 people have stopped by for a tour. More than 50 pets were registered to be boarded there during the extended Memorial Day holiday weekend, Carla Judson said. An official grand opening will be in October.

Inspired by the Western decor found, in of all places, a New England steakhouse, The Lodge took four years from concept to completion.

The Judsons sold their veterinary and boarding kennel businesses in Connecticut more than a year ago to focus on the New Tampa project.

The couple worked with SunTrust Bank to finance a 16,000-square-foot complex on three acres at 15403 Morris Bridge Road, a rural, two-lane stretch south of Cross Creek Boulevard.

The project transformed a site with a ranch-style house and live oaks into a neatly landscaped parcel sprinkled with elms and an attractive, dark-gray building that resembles an upscale stable.

Richard Bacon of Clearwater designed the building that features an exterior constructed of low-maintenance, impact-resistant planks and cobblestone veneer siding. The contractor, Don Stine Construction Inc. of Plant City, took a year to complete the job. Most of the four years were spent securing proper building permits.

The couple were persistent in their quest for a zoning change to remove some live oaks from the site, Carla Judson said. They worried acorns falling from the trees could be harmful to the dogs if they ate them.

The Lodge also houses a private dog park, four fenced exercise areas and other outdoor venues aimed to attract discriminating pet owners and their pets to various social events.

The main building features a lobby with a beamed, vaulted ceiling, a massive fireplace and opulent, Western-themed antique furnishings.

"We are not worried about the dogs jumping on it," Ken Judson said of the furniture bought at antique stores across the country. "It just adds more scratches."

Carla Judson didn't spare any expense on the decor. "We wanted to create a home environment," she said.

An enormous chandelier with entwined antlers cast light on a king-sized sofa and chairs made of leather, rawhide and other durable fabrics. A pair of saddles purchased at a Denver antique shop are displayed near the front door.

A giant moose head, mounted on the wall opposite the front desk, is the focal piece in the room. They named it "Bugaboo" for the restaurant in Manchester, Conn., where the family was dining when they decided to invest in a local animal lodge.

The business also features an outdoor swim and splash pool, a play area with artificial turf, a fire pit and covered patio. Each building is equipped with smoke detectors, fire sprinklers and a high-tech security system.

The doggie boarding area includes 69 air-conditioned "lodge rooms" with thick, padded bedding, elevated bowls and private lanais; 44 junior and luxury suites are outfitted with the same amenities as well as wall-mounted cameras to allow pet owners 24-hour Internet access to peek in on their pets.

Johnny Cash's owner, Jorge Domecq of Cory Lake Isles, said the online monitoring service eased the stress of leaving his dog at The Lodge the first time.

"I checked online at midnight and they were there giving the dogs water," Domecq said. "They shocked me."

The Lodge, which staffs 15 employees, is open from 6:30 a.m. to late in the evening five days a week, Carla Judson said. Business hours are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturdays and 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sundays.

The couple and their daughters, Kathryn, an 18-year-old senior at King High International Baccalaureate; and Natalee, 15 and a freshman at Freedom High, live in Tampa Palms.

They keep the cats, birds and exotics such as hamsters, rabbits and fish, safely tucked away in the main building. The cats have free range of a lanai, where they can play in a multileveled enclosure, when they are not roaming around their private four-story condominium.

Jonas Urba of Brandon said he and his partner had been searching for some place special for their 1-year-old cat, Sushi, when they discovered The Lodge Web site, www.thelodgefordogs.com. They were hooked after touring the property.

"Sushi was exploring the four-level condominium immediately," Urba said. "We will bring her back for sure."

Olsson, who travels a lot for work, said she fell in love with The Lodge the moment she saw it. She is thrilled to have a boarding facility for Tucker so close to home. She had been boarding him at a kennel in Land O' Lakes.

The Judsons, who have spent nearly 35 years tending to animals, have two dogs of their own. Hidalgo and Sakari are borzois, a breed of thin, large dogs also known as a Russian wolfhound.

"They have inspired us to do great thing for dogs," Carla Judson said. (Source: KENNETH KNIGHT,Northeast News & Tribune)

Heartworms in dogs easily preventable

Canine heartworm disease continues to be a major, life-threatening issue for dogs all over the world. It has been found in all 50 of the United States, and the American Heartworm Society recently released a new study showing an increase in the incidence of heartworm disease throughout the country.

I am often amazed at the lackadaisical attitude that some pet owners have toward heartworm disease. It is easily preventable by giving a medication monthly. Why would anyone choose not to do this for their pet?

The heartworm blood parasite, Dirofilaria immitis, is spread by mosquitoes that feed on an infected dog by taking blood. The mosquito transmits the microfilaria — heartworm offspring — to other animals when it bites them. The microfilaria mature and migrate to the heart and pulmonary vessels, where they produce thousands of infective larvae. Symptoms of heartworm disease include difficult breathing, coughing, exercise intolerance, weight loss and heart failure. Sudden death with no obvious symptoms might also occur.

Heartworm preventative should be given every month, year-round in Missouri. It is easy to give and comes in a variety of forms. Chewable tablets, flavortabs and topicals are all available. For those with difficulty remembering to give medications, you can sign up through several different companies to receive monthly e-mails or post card reminders. Stickers to put on the calendar to help you remember also come in every box of heartworm preventative.

Dogs should have a yearly blood test for heartworms. This is recommended even for those on the monthly preventative. Missed doses, dogs that threw up the medication, confusion over who was giving the medication and tricky dogs who spit out medications are all reasons why yearly tests are recommended.

Testing is one aspect of heartworms that causes a lot of confusion. Heartworms have a very long life cycle, so it takes six to eight months from the time of infection before a dog will test positive. This explains why a dog that tests negative and is given preventative every month for a year might test positive the next year. The test kits used in most veterinary hospitals detect the presence of the feline heartworm uterine antigen. This means that a dog with only male heartworms will not test positive.

There are also some misconceptions about heartworms. One is that inside pets do not need to be given monthly preventative. Even if your dog never leaves the house to go for a walk, play or take care of bathroom duties, it should still be on preventative. Mosquitoes can and do get in the house. It takes the bite of only one infected mosquito to transmit heartworms.

Owners of dogs with long or thick fur coats sometimes question the necessity of giving heartworm preventative. Do not underestimate the determination of mosquitoes. They will find a way to get a blood meal through all that fur.

My favorite excuse that people sometimes give for not using heartworm preventative is that they have had dogs for years and they never got heartworms. You could probably cross the street without looking both ways many times without getting hit by a car, but is that really a good idea?

Heartworms can infect cats and many other species. Heartworm disease of cats poses many challenges and will be discussed in my next column. For more information regarding prevention of heartworms in dogs, contact your veterinarian or go to the American Heartworm Society Web site at www.heartwormsociety.org (Source:By Michelle Marshall, columbia tribune)

The oceans ain't what they used to be, say researchers

By analyzing sport fishing photos, dated from 156 to 2007, from the Key West area near Florida, researchers found that the average fish size dropped from about 23 kilograms to only 2.3 kilograms. (AP / Jeff Barnard)

Only decades before the factories of the industrial revolution sullied Europe's skies with smog in the 19th Century, coastal Great Britain teemed with marine wildlife like dolphins, orcas and blue whales, according to a new study.

Seven seas away, during the early 1800s, the waters surrounding New Zealand were home to nearly 30,000 southern right whales, which researches say is about 30 times today's population.

Those historical sketches are just some of the findings to be showcased during the Census of Marine Life conference, which takes place in Vancouver from May 26 - 28.

While the contention that today's oceans are less populated than they used to be isn't new -- school kids are taught that John Cabot's crew caught fish in Newfoundland with only a basket -- the experts behind the data say their findings are important in terms of perception and conservation.

According to University of New Hampshire researcher Andy Rosenberg, recent observations of the world's waterways have skewed perceptions about the health of our rivers, lakes and oceans.

Rosenberg, a top researcher for the Census' History of Marine Animal Population (HMAP) project, also says the historical findings are forcing officials to confront current preservation efforts.

One key region for researchers has been New Zealand, which is among the most recently populated places on earth.

While much of Eurasia and Africa have been heavily populated for thousands of years, New Zealand was first settled by pacific islanders around 1280 A.D., which gives researchers a clearer picture of human impact on marine life.

HMAP researchers analyzed more than 150 whaling logbooks and found that right whale population near New Zealand in the early 1800s was between 22,000 and 32,000.

However, by 1925, there were only 25 female whales capable of producing offspring, the researchers say. The findings are 95 per cent accurate, according to HMAP.

Today, about 1,000 of the whales are being closely monitored by researchers and the HMAP data is already being used to guide conservation efforts.

"These findings point up the need to re-examine the role southern right whales once played both as a grazer of zooplankton and prey, especially during calving close inshore, for killer whales and great white sharks," said Alison MacDiarmid, a conservationist employed by the New Zealand government.

Arguably, one of the most important findings is how much oceans have changed in the past few decades.

By analyzing sport fishing photos, dated from 1956 to 2007, from the Key West area near Florida, researchers found that the average fish size dropped from about 23 kilograms to only 2.3 kilograms.

The census team also found that big predators like sharks often dominated the early trophy photos. These days, however, small fish like snappers are the norm.

According to leading researchers, the findings are new and important to the overall health of the world's waters.

"Most histories of successful marine recoveries are found among mammals and birds, but cases involving marine reptiles and fish also exist. Only in a few cases, however, did they fully recover their former abundance," according to Dalhousie University researcher Heike Lotze.

"In the past, some combination of reduced or banned exploitation, pollution controls or habitat protection, especially of breeding colonies and feeding grounds, propelled recovery."(Source:Jered Stuffco, CTV.ca News)

Carlsbad turtle expert and his turtles mark World Turtle Day

CARLSBAD — World Turtle Day is sponsored by the American Tortoise Rescue, a non-profit organization established nearly 20 years ago for the protection of all species of tortoise and turtle. As an annual observance featured in Chase's Book of Annual Events, it was created to help people celebrate and protect turtles and tortoises and their disappearing habitats around the world.

The group founders, Susan Tellem and Marshall Thompson, are advocates of humane treatment of all animals, especially reptiles. They launched World Turtle Day to increase respect for and knowledge about one of the world's oldest creatures, which have been around for about 200 million years.

"Our ultimate goal is to stop the illegal trade in turtles and tortoises around the world. But our first job is here in the U.S. where pet stores and reptile shows sell illegal hatchling tortoises of all species," Thompson said, adding turtles are often an impulse buy and end up suffering from improper care.

There are about 220 species of turtles living today, less than one-tenth the numbers of living snakes or lizards. Despite their relative lack of diversity, turtles are hardy and adaptable. They have moved into a wide variety of habitats from hot arid deserts to the open seas.

In size, they range from the tiny Musk turtle, less than 5 inches long, to the huge marine Leatherback, which reaches lengths of more than 6 feet and weighs more than half a ton. The largest

living land turtle, the Galapagos tortoise, can reach a length of 4 and a half feet and weigh more than 550 pounds.
Local veterinarian Mark Heinrich explained the word turtle is reserved for water and small omnivore land turtles such as the Western or Desert box. The word tortoise is reserved for land dwelling vegetarians.

Heinrich has leopard tortoises, Indian star tortoises and Western box turtles. The leopard and African-spurred tortoise are straight vegetarians. The Western box or desert box turtles eat plant and animal food.

"I raised her from a hatchling," Heinrich said making reference to 15-year-old Badger, a leopard tortoise weighing 15 pounds.

He named her Badger because the dog he had of the same name chewed on her, leaving the outside of her shell rough and ragged. Badger, a type of tortoise that doesn't hibernate, roams his yard eating grass and dandelion greens. He has provided a heated barn. Above 40 degrees he doesn't worry, but anything below requires heat. When the weather is bad in the winter, he brings the turtles inside and they reside in a big tub.

Heinrich said he ended up with the Indian star tortoises because a group intercepted them at an airport after they were illegally brought into the U.S. A friend of his found out, called him, and he took them.

People will do anything for money, he said, noting people get by with selling them under the pretense of scientific or education purposes.

Heinrich explained that many of the larger pet tortoises sold in the U.S. are captive bred. He urges prospective turtle owners to insist that the pet they buy be captive bred.

The Western or Desert box turtle that most people are familiar with in this area ranges from the Trans-Pecos region of Texas, New Mexico and southeastern Arizona in the U.S. and south in Sonora and Chihuahua in Mexico. Its colors are muted for camouflage in the desert.

Once these turtles have been captured and brought into town, they should never go back to the wild because of disease purposes. One sick turtle could transmit and spread disease and wipe out a wild population.

"Once they have been in captivity they can't go back in the wild - that's a big no-no," Heinrich said.

Box turtles kept in backyards as pets often contract mycoplasma, an upper respiratory problem. They also are susceptible to bacterial eye and ear infections. Once they go into hibernation and their body temperature goes down, they can't fight infection. Many die during hibernation or shortly after they emerge.

The eye infection leaves them temporarily blind because hard pus caps form and cover the eyeball. The pus caps need to be removed skillfully and carefully and the eye treated with antibiotic. If their ears appear domed or similar to horns, they are more than likely infected and need to be lanced, cleaned and treated with antibiotics. All of the above problems require medical attention by a veterinarian.

If a turtle is on the highway, be courteous and stop and carry it across and place it safely out of harm's way in the direction it was headed.

The best policy is to resist taking them home as pets. Leave them in the wild in their familiar habitat. (Source:Valerie Cranston, Current-Argus)

Traveling with Pets This Summer?

Chicago, Illinois ~ As your summer road trip plans are beginning to take shape, don’t forget to include your pet! According to the American Pet Products Association (APPA), more than 21 percent of dog owners and about 3 percent of cat owners take their pets along on road trips.

“We have seen a growing number of companies catering to busy pet owners on the go,” said Don Tomala,Managing Partner of Matrix Partners, a brand strategy and communications firm focused on the pet industry.“ There has been an amazing shift in the industry toward the humanization of pets, treating them as part of the family, and vacation time is no exception.”

As you begin packing, don’t forget these essential travel items to ensure a smooth trip for you and your pet:

Safety First – IDTAG.com – One Call. One Click. Found!
We all know how important it is to have a pet wear an id tag, but what if you lose your pet when you are out of town?
Much more than a stylish tag, IDTAG.com is the smartest, easiest way to find lost pets fast! With a click of a mouse or a
phone call, an instant lost pet alert is sent to local shelters and rescues within 50 miles of a pet’s last known location.

IDTAG.com will notify customers which local shelters have been contacted, so they can follow-up personally.The service will also call up to seven emergency contact numbers to alert you when your pet is found. Available in fashionable designs for both dogs and cats, IDTAG.com is like an Amber Alert for lost pets!
www.idtag.com

Take a Summer Stroll Day or Night – flexi – Classic Mini All Belt and Leash Light Flashlight
(a LED flashlight attachment for all retractable leashes)
flexi, the global leader in retractable leashes, has just launched the Classic Mini All Belt.Designed for convenient carrying
in a pocket or a purse, this leash is perfect for the on-the-go pet parent. For use with small pets up to 26 pounds, this
leash extends 10 feet, is equipped with a two-button brake system and features the all belt design the entire length of
the leash.The Classic Mini All Belt also can be used on cats with a specialty harness.
www.flexiusa.com

Another special item for your pet’s suitcase is the Leash Light Flashlight.This LED flashlight easily attaches with Velco
to any flexi retractable leash.The attachable flashlight is ideal for night walks, especially when stopping for potty breaks.
www.finnypetproducts.com

Pet First Aid – NURTURED PETS – Anti-Lick Strip Prevent™
Since you never know when an emergency may arise while you’re on the road, it’s a good idea to keep pet bandages on hand. Clinically proven, the new Anti-Lick Strip Prevent™ by Nurtured Pets deters licking and biting of hot spots, granulomas and wound areas, even bee stings! These bandages are made with a 3M medical grade adhesive designed to peel-and-stick directly to your pet’s hair.The Anti-Lick Strip Prevent is made with all-natural active ingredients
including cayenne pepper.The strips are available in small, medium and large sizes, and come in a Retail Pack (6 bandages) or Trial Pack (2 bandages).
www.nurturedpets.com

Calm in a Bottle – PETZLIFE PET PRODUCTS, INC. – @-Eaze Calming Support for Pets Fresh Breathe and Cleaning on the Go – PETZLIFE PET PRODUCTS, INC. – Oral Care Spray and Gel PetzLife’s @-Eaze Calming Support for Pets can be applied directly or mixed with food or treats, to promote a restful, relaxed state without diminishing alertness.This product is perfect for nervous pets while traveling to relieve stress and anxiety.

PetzLife’s Oral Care Spray and Gel works fast and naturally to control plaque and tartar on the teeth of dogs and cats
on the go! This natural product, made of a blend of Grapefruit Seed Extract and other herbs, helps control the bacteria responsible for bad breath.

Both products are made with natural ingredients and are safe for human consumption. Both product lines are made in the U.S.A. www.petzlife.com

An Occupied Dog = A Good Dog – PUPPY PIÑATA LLC
Named one of the Pet Product Breakthroughs of the Year, Puppy Piñata is the only plush dog toy stuffed with tasty treats. This stimulating “2-in-1” product, which comes pre-stuffed with natural treats, is designed to satisfy your dog’s “inner wolf” instinct to search, hunt and work for food. A brilliant way to keep Fido busy on long trips! Available in two sizes.
www.puppypinata.com

About Matrix Partners
Headquartered in Chicago,Matrix Partners is an award-winning brand strategy and communications firm specializing in pet product advertising, publicity and promotions. Since 1987,Matrix Partners has created successful marketing campaigns for hundreds of consumer products that have accelerated brand growth. In the pet arena,we’ve helped improve sales for dozens of national brands ranging from pet foods, treats and supplements to cat litter, accessories
and grooming aids. For more information, visit www.matrix1.com.

IDTAG.com Partners with Pet Airways®

Secaucus, NJ — IDTAG.com, provider of a round-the-clock recovery system for missing pets, has partnered with Pet Airways in the transportation service’s new venture. On July 14, Pet Airways will launch the first flights of its pet-only airline specifically designed for the safe and comfortable transportation of pets.

On Pet Airways, all pets travel in the main cabin instead of the cargo hold. Flights originally will serve five cities—New York, Washington D.C., Chicago, Denver and Los Angeles. Pet Airways plans to expand nationwide with easily accessible pet check-in lounges to serve its “pawsengers” in major metropolitan areas.

When pets travel to a new location, either for vacation or to take up permanent residence, there is always the possibility of them wandering off and getting lost. To help avoid this problem, Dan Wiesel, President and CEO of Pet Airways, said that, in partnership with IDTag.com, every pawsenger will be wearing a special Pet Airways tag.

“The IDTAG.com service is far superior to any other pet recovery system that is available because of its instant lost pet alert program that helps find lost pets fast,” Wiesel said. “After all, pets are the most important item we can travel with. IDTAG.com and Pet Airways have a shared goal to ensure safety is always first when pets fly the friendly skies.”

Each IDTAG.com pet tag is engraved with a unique pet “social security number,” enabling the pet owner to create a secure, on-line profile containing current photos, videos, health records and up to 6 emergency contact numbers for their dog or cat.

One call to the IDTAG.com emergency support line or a click of the mouse and an instant lost pet alert will be sent to any shelter or rescue group within 50 miles of the pet’s last known location. In a similar fashion, anyone who recovers the pet can simply call the toll-free number on the tag or log onto www.IDTAG.com. It’s like an Amber Alert for lost pets.

“IDTAG.com and Pet Airways are a perfect fit,” says Tom Troiano, director of the program for IDTAG.com. “All pets should have an id tag, especially when they are traveling. The best feature that IDTAG.com offers to Pet Airways customers is that our system can be updated in real-time with no fees. So if a pet is about to take off on a flight, the owner can just put the destination zip code into our system and they can be assured that if anything happened once while the pet is visiting that location, we could send our instant ‘Amber Alert’ to all of the shelter and rescue groups within a 50-mile radius in the U.S. and Canada.”

ABOUT IDTAG.com
IDTAG.com provides pet owners with a round-the-clock recovery system for lost and found pets. This product is the creation of New Jersey-based, LittleGifts Inc., a leading manufacturer of pet products and giftware. Each stylish IDTAG has its own unique serial number, or pet “social security number” to track the missing pet. IDTAG.com is the most advanced pet protection system available because it allows owners to update their pet’s information in real-time as it changes, no need to replace their pet’s tag.

If a pet ever goes missing, the owner simply calls the IDTAG.com phone center or logs onto the site. With its One-Click™ technology, an instant lost pet broadcast alert is sent to local shelters and rescue organizations within 50 miles of a pet’s last known location. Live operators, who are available 24/7, will call up to six emergency contact numbers the owner has provided to notify them when the pet has been found. In a similar fashion, anyone who recovers a pet can call the toll-free number on the tag or log onto www.idtag.comto ensure the safe return of the pet. When every second counts, it’s like an Amber Alert for lost pets! For more information, please call 1-888-560-0985 or visit www.IDTAG.com.

About Pet Airways
Founded in 2005 by Dan Wiesel and Alysa Binder, Pet Airways was created to provide a safe and comfortable solution for the transportation of pets. Inspiration for the concept came from difficulties encountered when transporting Zoe, their Jack Russell Terrier, across the country. For more information, visit www.petairways.com.

Owners, activists claim sickly pups product of Petland

WFAA-TV The News 8 investigation focused on the Petland franchise store in Frisco.

When Debbie DeGise, of Plano, takes her dog "Sarge" on a walk, most seem to notice his size. Some might also notice his stiff legs as he walks.

"We've had this dog eight days or something and hear it's going to die," she said.

Sarge has undergone numerous surgeries and titanium knee implants. His genetic defects cause his legs to shake.

WFAA-TV A puppy arriving at a Petland store from an 18-wheeler.

DeGise's son fell in love with Sarge four years ago when he first saw him at Petland in Frisco.

His runny nose, eye secretions, stomach parasites and lack of appetite days after the purchase led her to rush Sarge to her veterinarian who diagnosed him with distemper.

"It's highly contagious," DeGise said. "It's something that if it's not treated it's fatal. And I just kept thinking all those puppies in there; and I thought, 'Oh my God, this is serious.'"

Family photo Sarge was diagnosed with distemper as a puppy, his owner said.

WFAA-TV Zoey has been sick since she was purchased, according to owner Jennifer Wilson.

Since that time, DeGise has spent more than $10,000 treating his illness and genetic defects that she blames on Petland.

"It's clearly about the money," she said. "It is not about the animal's welfare or the public or anything like that."

"She seemed sickly to me," she said. "She was matted in the back with some diarrhea, and she was actually diagnosed after we bought her with Giardia."

Zoey has been sick ever since.

A few weeks ago, a veterinarian hospital stay cost her nearly $2,000. She said she's out $6,500 and counting.

The Petland Corporation became the target of a Humane Society of the United States undercover investigation and class action lawsuit. A related video is posted on the Humane Society's website.

Petland puppies were traced back to what the Humane Society described as filthy, barren, crowded cages reeking of waste.

The allegation claimed Petland stocks its store display cages with puppy mill dogs, many of them sick and defective and sold to unsuspecting consumers in numerous states. They are claims backed up by one former Petland employee, who did not want to be identified.

"I was fed up with the way the animals were treated,"

He said he witnessed many disturbing practices including puppies trucked in from out of state breeders and packed into cages. Untreated illnesses would sometimes claim their lives, he said.

"I've had two to three dogs die from Parvo in my hands as I was trying to take them up to the vet," he said.

News 8 took undercover video inside the Frisco Petland, the source of at least two problem puppies. While News 8 did find several active, healthy looking dogs, several appeared lethargic and sickly. One could be seen lying next to a pool of his own vomit. Another had diarrhea in a space so cramped he defecated on his own mattress. The floor of many of the cages were soiled with waste.

"The health and well-being of our pets come first," said Petland Inc. spokeswoman Elizabeth Kunzelman in a written statement. "Like children, they can sometimes get sick ... Our puppies come from individuals in local communities and from U.S.D.A. licensed professional breeders and brokers ... They are sold with current vaccinations and the most comprehensive pet warranty in the pet industry."

It's a statement DeGise said is hard to swallow.

"Petland knows what they are doing and they are not standing up and taking responsibility," she said.

The lawsuit filed by the Humane Society is against Petland Inc., not the Frisco Petland franchise and none of its allegations involve that particular store. Petland Inc. is seeking to have the lawsuit dismissed. (source: BRETT SHIPP, WFAA-TV)

Largest leatherback turtle nesting area found
Up to 41,000 females estimated along Gabon coast

The world's largest nesting population of leatherback sea turtles has been identified in Africa, it was announced today.

Land and aerial surveys indicate a population of between 15,730 and 41,373 female turtles use the nesting beaches in Gabon, West Africa.

Leatherbacks are of intense conservation concern around the world after populations in the Indo-Pacific crashed by more than 90 percent in the 1980s and 1990s. The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) lists leatherback turtles as critically endangered globally, but detailed population assessments in much of the Atlantic, especially Africa, are lacking.

The research was led by the University of Exeter working in collaboration with the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) which spearheads the Gabon Sea Turtle Partnership, a network of organizations concerned with the protection of marine turtles in Gabon

Leatherbacks are the deepest diving of all sea turtles. The deepest recorded dive is ¾ mile (1.2 kilometers), which is slightly more than the deepest known dive of a sperm whale.
As with other reptiles, the sex of leatherbacks-to-be is determined by the temperature of eggs during incubation. With leatherbacks, temperatures above 84 degrees F, (29 degrees C) will result in female hatchlings.

Leatherbacks are strong swimmers and tagged individuals have been known to cross ocean basins and are known to travel many thousands of miles in search of their jellyfish prey.

Aerial surveys
During three nesting seasons between 2002 and 2007, the team's members carried out a comprehensive survey of marine turtles in Gabon. This involved aerial surveys along Gabon's 372 mile (600 kilometer) coast, using video to capture footage for evaluation, and detailed ground-based monitoring.

By covering the entire coastline, the team was not only able to estimate the number of nests and nesting females, but also to identify the key sites for leatherback nesting, data which are crucial to developing conservation management plans for the species. Leatherbacks were first described nesting in Gabon in 1984.

The new finding on the turtle population was published in the May issue of the journal Biological Conservation.

"We knew that Gabon was an important nesting site for leatherback turtles but until now had little idea of the size of the population or its global ranking, said Matthew Witt of the University of Exeter, lead author of the research paper. "We are now focusing our efforts on working with local agencies to coordinate conservation efforts to ensure this population is protected against the threats from illegal fisheries, nest poaching, pollution and habitat disturbance, and climate change."

Protected areas are key
The study also revealed that around 79 percent of the turtles' nesting occurs within National Parks and other protected areas.

"These findings show the critical importance of protected areas to maintain populations of sea turtles," said Angela Formia of the Wildlife Conservation Society, a co-author of the paper. "Gabon should be commended for creating a network of National Parks in 2002 that have provided a sanctuary for this endangered species as well as other rare wildlife."

The study was made possible through funding by the Natural Environment Research Council, the United States Fish and Wildlife Service, and the Marine Turtle Conservation Fund (U.S. Department of the Interior).

To see turtles currently being tracked from Gabon see: http://www.seaturtle.org/tracking/?project_id=340. (Source: LiveScience Staff )

Should You Buy Pet Health Insurance?

HOUSTON - What would we do without our pets? They work for us; they love us unconditionally, and in return, we take care of them. Sometimes, that means paying huge medical bills to save their lives.

When when Laura and Steve Clayton's Yorkie began to vomit blood, doctor's had to operate. They found a pecan in her intestines.

The dog is fine now, but the Claytons are still reeling from the $3,500 medical bill.

Steve then began looking into pet health insurance.

"You just don't want to have those kind of surprises pop up again" he said.

But surprises pop up all the time.

After an animal has emergency surgery or suffers unexpected injury, they can come to the Canine Health Institute for rehabilitation.

While many insurance plans won't cover hereditary conditions, illnesses or yearly vaccines, they will cover emergencies.

"The thing that pet insurance helps with is catastrophic problems-- your dog is hit by a car, needs surgery, hospitalization, " Veterinarian Dr. Adrianne Brode said. "A lot of those costs are unexpected; you can't predict those."

There are dozens of pet insurance plans available, with monthly rates ranging from $6 to $76.

The Claytons say they now want to be prepared.

"I have no problem paying $20 a month if we run into another incident about this if it helps us with the expenses," said Laura.

Remember, pet insurance doesn't work like human human health insurance. You must pay your pet's bill out of pocket, then file the claim to the insurance company for reimbursement. (Source:EMILY AKIN, Fox Houston)

Ga. dog runner up for valor award

A Georgia dog named Charley was a runner-up for a special award to celebrate canine heroism.

Charley

Hank

Two dogs from Georgia were among 15 real-life Lassies and Rin Tin Tins nominated in the second annual Dogs of Valor Award, created by the Humane Society of the United States to “honor and celebrate dogs who have performed an extraordinary act of courage by heroically helping a person in need.

The 2009 Dog of Valor is Baby, according to the Humane Society Web site.

Baby, owned by the Cardon family in Albuquerque, N.M., earned the award from the judges for saving his 82-year-old owner Elwood. The 5-year-old Great Dane kept his owner warm after a car accident in a remote area, and eventually went out and alerted residents to the crash location.

Charley, the stylish West Highland terrier, was one of three runners up.

At 15 pounds, Charley was on the small side compared to some of the giants in contention. He pestered Loganville owner Frances Gippert to take him outside one afternoon last August, then tugged on his leash to lead her to a man who had fallen from a ladder. Roy Monie, 61, was lying semi-conscious between two houses, where he had been working on the roof at one of his rental properties.

Gippert quickly summoned emergency technicians and Monie survived. The EMTs told her “if we hadn’t gotten to him when we did, he wouldn’t be here,” she said.

A second Georgia dog in the competition – Hank, a sweet-faced beagle – helped farmer P.W. Wesley, 81, survive when his tractor rolled over him last October.

The People’s Hero award went to D-Boy, a pit bull that stopped an armed robber despite three gun shots to his head. And D-Boy survived.

The results and dogs are listed on the Society’s Web site (www.hsus.org). The site also lists the valorous acts that earned each dog a place in the roster. (Source AJC, Staff Report)

Pet owner chooses snake and chips

Pet owners that intend to sell their animals must get them microchipped

Reptile expert, Ashley Swift, said it was a busy time of year for reptile breeders who are legally obliged to register animals they intend to sell. Mr Swift, from The Reptile Centre, Nottingham, said: "They'll have to get the parents chipped so they can register the babies - it's like a birth certificate." More than 450,000 animals have been microchipped in the past five years in the UK.

Graham Oliver from Buckley House Vet Centre said snakes were among the many creatures which came into the centre.

Koi carp are often stolen from ponds

Fishy behaviour

Mr Oliver said microchipping was often used for commercial purposes, especially when there was a risk of theft. He said: "Some of the Koi carp that people exchange for tens, if not hundreds of thousands of pounds can be 1m long so they can cope with a little chip."

Theft may be a problem for owners of exotic pets - but some animals leave home of their own accord. Mr Oliver said pets, especially cats, went missing for a number of reasons.

"They will jump in the back of vans. They can travel great distances."

Happy endings

Last month a cat which ran away from Nottingham in 2005 was returned to its owner. Kofi had been taken in by the RSPCA in Suffolk after he was found injured. His owner, Sarah Hawley, said: "We had given up hope of seeing him again. He seems happy and we will gradually reintroduce him to his brother Ted once he's settled back in.

"I am so pleased he was microchipped as otherwise he really would have been missing forever."

Another cat, Dixie from Erdington, Birmingham, was found after nine years thanks to microchip tracking.

Supporters of animal micro-chipping are working hard to raise awareness about its importance. Students from Thorpe House School in Norwich, Norfolk, have joined forces with the RSPCA and celebrities to promote a petition calling for microchipping to be made a legal requirement. (Source: BBC News Channel)

Amazing Hero Dogs -- More Than Just Pets

Heroic or instinct? This dog won't let officers near its injured friend after a highway accident in New York City. (ABC News)

Animal Expert Says Not Much Is Known About Reasoning Behind Canine Heroics

Move over Lassie -- there's a whole new pack of hero dogs and they aren't just waiting for Timmy to fall down a well.

A new video that shows a German shepherd trying valiantly -- and successfully -- to keep authorities from its injured friend on one of the busiest highways in New York City is just the latest example of dogs who go above and beyond to protect their loved ones.

"It's possible ... there was a social bond," said Dr. E'Lise Christensen, a veterinarian and board certified animal behaviorist.

The apparent German shepherd mix in New York City kept officials at bay on the Major Deegan Expressway by running frantic circles around the injured dog, which lay motionless and bleeding in the middle of the road. If officers tried to approach the injured animal, the shepherd would lunge, warning them to stay away.

Christensen, who works for Manhattan-based New York City Veterinary Specialists, said after watching video of the dogs, the shepherd's protection of his injured companion was "really serious."

"All we know is he's using these barking and lunging behaviors to get people to go away," she said.

In the end, officers were able to grab the injured dog which was treated by veterinarians. ABC's New York affiliate WABC reported that both dogs, which live together in the Bronx, were claimed by their owner and that the shepherd is the injured dog's offspring.

The video bore similarities to another canine highway hero from Chile. In December, cameras captured a dog's bold move to drag another dog to the side of the road after it had been struck on a busy highway.

Dogs aren't always loyal only to their own kind.

Last summer, a mixed breed dog named China was hailed as a life saver in Argentina when she saved a newborn child from what doctors said would have been certain death.

China found the infant in a field where it had been abandoned by its 14-year-old mother. China, according to local reports, brought the baby back to her litter of six puppies and kept it warm until her owner found the expanded family and called authorities. (Source:SARAH NETTER, ABC News)

Animal obesity causes real suffering

Tabatha - a fat cat. Photograph: Corbis/Karen Kasmauski

Allowing animals to become overweight is cruel, and can land you in court. Why can't we stop over-indulging our pets?

You never see a fat cat or a blubbery wolf in the wild. Obesity is just not natural. Admittedly, you never see a wild animal with up to date vaccinations either, but domesticity brings health risks as well as benefits to our animal companions.

At least 50% of our pets are overweight, according to the RSPCA – some of them are so hefty that their health and wellbeing are seriously compromised. Pet obesity can lead to arthritis, diabetes, liver and heart disease. It can also land you in court.

A man will appear before Brighton magistrates' court today charged with animal welfare offences after his dog was found to be dangerously overweight. The 40kg border collie was taken into the care of Brighton and Hove city council after its owner failed to heed advice to get his dog into shape.

A similar case in January this year saw two seriously overweight Labradors – Rocky and Chubby – taken from their owners by an RSPCA inspector. The move prompted an angry response from Labour MP Frank Field, who accused the RSPCA of having an "unjust" policy on animal cruelty prosecutions, saying; "I can't imagine that these dogs are better off in RSPCA kennels than in a loving home."

Stories about roly-poly pets being seized by steel-hearted RSPCA inspectors or council officials often elicit public sympathy and headline puns – but let's not forget that animal obesity causes real suffering. As well as causing all sorts of health problems, being overweight can cut a dog's life expectancy by two years (equivalent to about 14 in human years) and significantly reduces quality of life.

According to Mark Evans, chief veterinary adviser for the RSPCA, pet obesity is now an "out of control epidemic" that affects all types of domestic animals – even horses, rabbits, birds and reptiles.

Allowing your pet to become overweight is cruel – simple as that. It is also entirely preventable - eat less, exercise more. We all know the rules. But just as we struggle to contain our own waistlines, we can't seem to stop ourselves over-indulging our pets with lovingly given treats. "There is a strong link between pet obesity and the psychological issues related to human obesity," says Mark Evans.

Last year, 78% of vets attending a European conference on pet weight management agreed with the statement that obese pets tend to have obese owners. The recently established UK Pet Obesity Taskforce, an independent thinktank, has found strong parallels between the rate of increase in pet obesity and the rise in the number of overweight children.

Pets are just as good at pester power as children, but it's time to start saying no. Eat as many chocolate éclairs as you like – if you want to wobble, that's up to you. But once you take on a pet, you accept a duty of care. Proper feeding is a bare minimum requirement. If you can't do that, get a stuffed toy.(Source:Justine Hankins,guardian.co.uk)

Warm weather warning issued

In Alaska, it's not uncommon to see someone driving around town with their canine companion riding shotgun, but as the warm weather season returns, pet owners should take precautions.

"People are lulled into a false sense of security due to the average temperature, but one hot day can be enough, and the hottest months are still ahead of us," said Mary Huhndorf, a veterinarian at Twin Cities Veterinary Clinic.

Huhndrof said canine fatalities have already arrived at the clinic after the hot days earlier this month. They were brought in by people who were aware of summer heat hazards, but failed to take the same precautions in spring, when many dogs may still be wearing their thick winter coats.

"People don't realize how fast long-haired dogs can heat up in a car," she said.

Studies show that the temperature inside cars can heat to lethal temperatures within 30 minutes in the sun. Vehicles that have an internal temperature of 72 degrees Fahrenheit when parked can soar to a deadly 117 degrees.

This can be deadly to dogs with thick coats, such as husky mixes, which are common in Alaska. But even dogs without thick coats would be in danger in these temperatures. Because dogs build up heat as a function of volume, larger dogs -- even ones with short coats -- will build up heat fast.

In addition, dogs lose heat through evaporation from their nasal passages and tongue, so dogs with flat faces -- such as many smaller breeds including pugs and Boston terriers -- are also more prone to overheating.

Overweight, old dogs and very young pups, have an even greater risk, too, since they cannot thermoregulate as well as dogs in their prime.

"A dog's normal body temperature is about 101 to 102. A dog we had come in last week -- having died from overheating in a car -- its temperature was 111 after its death," Huhndorf said.

When the temperature climbs to 106, things become deadly for dogs.

"As they overheat, dogs will also get anxious and go into panic. Their larynx folds can start to swell, and they'll start to become oxygen deprived," Huhndorf said.

A dog's body will begin to dehydrate and the blood thicken, putting strain on the heart and decreasing circulation to vital organs and tissues. Organ failure and death can occur quickly if measures are not taken immediately to bring the temperature down.

"It's a horrible way to die, and sadly it often happens to a good pet owner who made a mistake," she said.

To prevent a pet-related tragedy, when running more than brief errands Huhndorf recommended leaving pets at home on sunny days when the temperature is predicted to be more than 50 degrees. Even when the weather is not predicted to be that warm, pet owners should take precautions in case the temperature spikes.

"Try to park in the shade, leave all the windows cracked two inches and don't be gone longer than 30 minutes. It sounds easy, but its quite common for someone to leave a dog in the car while they run into a store for a few minutes; they bump into a friend and then loose track of time," she said.

Huhndorf said people should also be alert to dogs that may have been forgotten about in vehicles.

"If you see a dog in a car and it looks like its overheating, people can go in the store and ask them to make an announcement," she said.

Not all stores will cooperate with a pet-related emergency, however, and in these cases the Alaska State Troopers can also be called.

n Take the dog into air conditioning;

* Place the dog in cool, but not cold, water;

* Sponge the dog's head, belly and area between the legs with cool water;

* Wet the dog's tongue;

* Turn a fan on the dog;

* Offer small amounts of cool water to drink every few minutes if the dog is conscious; and

* Bring to a veterinarian to determine if the dog needs further treatment. (Source: By Joseph Robertia, Peninsula Clarion)

A new look at puppy love
Pets play a role in dating game

Meeting the parents can be a test for any new relationship. But what about meeting the pooch?

Pets are part of the family these days, which means they may have opinions about who you're dating.

"In the old days, you had to meet the mother. Now you have to meet the dog and get the dog's approval," says Stephanie LaFarge, director of counseling services for the ASPCA and an expert on the human-animal bond.

Sometimes pets are involved in a relationship from the start, now that there are dating services for animal lovers and couples who meet at the dog park. But if they're not, when the introduction happens, it's important to take the time to make it a positive experience.

"A bad first meeting can take a long time to get over -- like a bad first meeting with the relatives," says LaFarge. "Little things that go wrong in the beginning can take months and sometimes years to undo."

What's at stake is not just a potential significant other's relationship with the animal, but your own feelings as well. It's hard to ignore a pet's response: "My cat just loves him" can be a huge positive, but if your animal reacts fearfully, it can raise new doubts.

If you're the one who is meeting a pet for the first time, make an effort in advance. You may think you know dogs or cats, but a simple thing such as where a dog likes to be petted can make a big difference. And showing concern for and interest in the pet is a way of showing concern for the person, says LaFarge.

"A lot of people are more emotionally touched when you do something for their pet, more than if someone brings flowers on the first date," she says.

If you're the pet owner, have your animal under control -- no one likes being jumped all over at a first meeting -- and offer your date information. If the cat doesn't like to be picked up, don't leave someone to find that out by experience.

As a relationship develops, certain pet issues are typical, such as those over hygiene and physical intimacy. If your date spends all his time trying to get cat hair off his clothes, or you think it's gross that she kisses her dog, don't assume that the problem is going to magically disappear with time.

"Don't ignore little things early on," says LaFarge. "You can work these things out, but you can't pretend they're not relevant, and they show up very early in the relationship."

It's important to remember that conflicts over the pets are often a sign of more fundamental differences. For example, money management is a common relationship issue that often surfaces over the question of how much to spend on the animals.

How a person handles these conflicts can be very revealing, says Joel Gavriele-Gold, clinical psychologist and author of "When Pets Come Between Partners."

"You learn a lot about the other person and how they deal with relationships," he says. "Is it based on control or cooperation?"

Sometimes, you can turn different priorities into an advantage. Gold says he sees many relationships in which the man is more concerned with keeping the pet active and fit, and the woman is focused on diet and vet care, which can work as a division of labor rather than a source of conflict.

But for stubborn problems, remembering that many pet conflicts aren't really about the animals can often be the route to a solution, as it was for one couple having the very common argument about whether the pets should be allowed in the bed.

Gold says that the woman insisted the cats always be in the bedroom with them, and the husband said it made him anxious. "Each thought the other was stubborn and spiteful," says Gold, until he asked a question of the wife: Are you an only child?

Yes, she said, surprised -- and she'd always wanted sisters. Her husband, as Gold expected, had come from a large family of eight siblings where he felt that he never had any privacy.

"When they got to see that, they were able to come to a compromise," says Gold. "They really had to make that connection first." (Source: By Linda Lombardi, Associated Press)

America's Foreclosed Pets ~ Abandoned homes, abandoned animals.

The number of foreclosures on U.S. properties was 46% higher in March 2009 than it was a year earlier. Among other problems, this trend--and the country's recession--has given rise to a heart-breaking new breed: foreclosure pets. Dogs, cats, horses, birds, they are abandoned, left to fend for themselves after their owners take off without taking them along--or placing them in shelters. These animals, bereft of human caretakers, are basically left to perish.

It is our philosophical and economical responsibility to continue saving animals even in spite of a, well, "ruff" financial market. In 1999, I started Animal Fair magazine and Web site, dedicated to promoting fairness to animals, responsible breeding and animal rescue. Our annual events have raised thousands of dollars for local shelters across the country.

One alpha dog, however, was recently elected to the global stage, simultaneously addressing the economy and animal rescue.

When Barack Obama took office, he promised to pass a monetary stimulus package to jump-start the sagging economy and to find a hypoallergenic, child-friendly dog--preferably from a shelter--for his daughters, Malia and Sasha.

Although the Obamas didn't end up adopting from a shelter, they did rescue a second-chance Portuguese water dog, named him Bo and gave him the opportunity to live in a very big White House. But other pets haven't been so lucky. Animals nationwide are increasingly becoming homeless casualties of the recession.

When the door closes on these pets for the last time, a variety of unfortunate situations can occur. They are abandoned without food or water. Fleas attack. They are left to breed uncontrollably. Even when authorities discover these poor animals, they are often too injured, dehydrated, starved or sick to be saved.

Just a few of hundreds of reported foreclosure cases affecting animals have made it into the news: 20 birds abandoned in Ohio; 24 horses left on a ranch in Oklahoma; still more horses seen wandering the Florida Everglades and coal mines in Kentucky when desperate owners set them loose to scavenge on their own. Authorities in Cincinnati even discovered over 50 abandoned cats.

If they are found, these helpless animals are often brought to rescue shelters across the nation. But these facilities are rapidly becoming overburdened. That's just one more reason why Americans must step up during these tough economic times, dig deep into our hearts and extend a hand whenever we can.

By offering a gracious gift of our time by volunteering or donating resources (of whatever value you can afford) or adopting, we can help foreclosure pets that are in need of homes and inevitably missing some loving attention. (Visit or contact your local animal shelter to get involved. The Humane Society of the United States and the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals are also helpful resources.)

These days, one reason to adopt a pet from an animal shelter is the price; it's much less expensive than buying one from a pet store. Many animals from shelters are already spayed or neutered and vaccinated, saving animal adopters the cost of a vet visit and even higher fees. And morally you'll feel great because you are saving the life of an animal. Your new pet will provide unconditional love, in addition to other psychological, emotional and physical benefits, during these precarious times.

The Golden (Retriever) Rule definitely applies here: "Do unto animals as you would want them to do unto you." We should follow this creed whenever individuals are forced to foreclose on their homes without any recourse but to give up their beloved pets.

If you or someone you know is about to lose a home to foreclosure, be prepared. Make sure pets have somewhere--anywhere--safe to call home. True, it's a dog-eat-dog world out there. But if we all create communities of compassion by adopting and caring for animals in need, they won't become just another statistic.

Wendy Diamond is the chief pet officer and editorial director of Animal Fair Media. (Source: Wendy Diamond, Forbes)

Celebrate National Pet Week

It’s National Pet Week and the 94th annual Be Kind to Animals Week, a little reminder to stop and think about how your pet enriches your life. And for those who don’t have a furry companion, it's a good chance for you to think about whether you are at that point in your life where you can adopt a new member into the family. But I think National Pet Week should also be synonymous with Thank Your Vet Week.

Too often we take the people who help make the quality of our pets' lives better for granted. But after the week I had with my own dog, Rocky, I want to give a big "thank you" to the veterinarians who looked after him.

A little before 1 a.m. one morning last week, I woke up to Rocky shrieking in pain for no apparent reason. He had just been lying at the foot of my bed asleep with no problems the whole night. I looked him over, but couldn’t find anything wrong. I hoped it was something that would pass, but after a few episodes of the painful crying I realized it wasn’t getting any better.

I have come to think that if I ever have kids I will be "That Mom." That Mom is a constant embarrassment to her children as they grow up. That Mom is the one who worries too much. That Mom is the one who takes them to the doctor if she hears a sneeze. That Mom bundles them up in a parka and mittens when it drops below 65 degrees. I know this because I am That Mom with my dog.

Normally on the first sign of a problem, I pack Rocky up and we head to Horton Animal Hospital on Forum. I have been bringing him there since I moved to Columbia and they have always taken excellent care of him. Like most children, he isn’t a fan of the doctor’s office. He has become so familiar with the route that after we turn onto Forum Boulevard, he begins to shake and tries to hide under the back seat.

But last week at 1 a.m., normal business hours at Horton Animal Hospital were well past and I was beginning to worry about what was wrong with Rocky. Being That Mom, I assumed the worst, called my boyfriend, and in broken, sobbing sentences I told him I thought Rocky was dying.

He assured me that probably wasn’t the case. We made the decision to take Rocky to the MU Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital because they have an emergency room that stays open into the wee hours of the morning.

We spent most of the rest of the night and quite a bit of the next day at the MU Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital. Rocky was in a lot of pain and I was a basket case, but the vets were amazing. They went above and beyond what I expected and I can’t express how grateful I am to them for taking such good care of my little boy.

Rocky is thought to have Intervertebral Disk Disease, a disorder that occurs in some small dogs like him. Disks in between his vertebrae have calcified and moved up toward his spinal cord, compressing it and causing the pain. Although I take the diagnosis seriously, I am thankful it isn’t anything worse.

Rocky is now on the road to recovery thanks to the staff at the MU Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital. I want to say thanks to them again for understanding how important my dog is to me and treating him like he was just as important to them.

Rocky has to be cage rested for the next six weeks to help his condition. He won’t be able to enjoy Pet Week at the dog park, barking at geese and small children or going to get goodies at Treats Unleashed like he would prefer. I get to show Rocky how much I love him by following doctor’s orders and keeping him from having any fun.

But hopefully you can let your pets know how much you appreciate them by doing something special for them this week. Even though every week should be like Be Kind to Animals Week, use this time as an opportunity to show your children how important it is to treat animals with respect and love. Show them the proper way to take a dog for a walk on a leash, or make homemade catnip toys with them for a house cat. Take them to the Mud Room downtown and let them make customized food and water bowls for your pet.

Don’t forget to let your vet know you appreciate them as well. Send a thank you card or donate blankets and towels to their facility to help with animal upkeep. Remember, Pet Week and Be Kind to Animals Week don't have to be limited to the animals in your household. Reach out to homeless and shelter animals as well, especially if you don’t have any pets of your own. (Source:Tracy Barnes,the Missourian)

Are pet psychics for real?

Austin, TX ~ Janet Ridgeway says she's had the talent of communicating with pets since she was young.
If you're skeptical about psychics for humans, imagine what a pet psychic does.

You've probably seen a pet psychic on TV and wondered how they do that and if it is real. Well, meet an animal communicator, and you can decide for yourself.

Janet Ridgeway has been communicating with animals since she was a child, and once she discovered her talent, she wanted to work on developing it further.

“It's something I have had since I was a kid, but really started to notice it as I got older and realized I had the ability to do more than everyone else,” Ridgeway said. “It's just like everything else. It is a learned skill. But, I believe everyone has the capacity to tune into what is going on.”

If you're skeptical about psychics for humans, imagine what a pet psychic does.

Ridgeway works with all sorts of animals from horses to hedgehogs, reptiles, birds, cats, and of course, dogs.

“It does not matter what kind of animal it is. Each communicates a little differently. Sometimes it is a flash. Sometimes it comes in a conversation,” Ridgeway said.

And as you might expect, they have a lot to say.

“Just about anything a person will tell, but usually they are funnier. It's very entertaining,” Ridgeway said.

If you feel that you have a special connection with the animals around you or want to learn more about how you can develop the skills, Ridgeway teaches classes to help you tune into the voices you have yet to hear.(Source:Lisa Chelenza)

Any breed of dog can cause allergies

First Pup Bo Obama, a Portuguese water dog who joined his new White House family this month, was picked from the litter because his new owners wanted a "hypoallergenic" dog that wouldn't aggravate 10-year-old Malia Obama's allergies. But the massive media coverage of the new appointment to the Obama administration has fueled a common public misconception about dog allergies.

Here's the real scoop:

No such thing: A truly hypoallergenic dog is a myth, according to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology. It's a common misconception that people are allergic to dog's hair, but allergies to pets are caused by pet dander (skin flakes) and protein found in the animal's saliva and skin glands that get deposited on the hair. Because all dogs secrete these proteins, there is no allergy-free dog. The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America reports that about 15 to 30 percent of people with allergies have allergic reactions to cats and dogs.

Better breeds: Some breeds are considered less allergenic. They include poodles, schnauzers, certain terriers and poodle hybrids, largely because they do not shed as much as other breeds, reducing the amount of dander in the home. The size of the dog and the ability of the owner to bathe the dog often are important factors to reduce the amount of allergens. Dogs with double coats, such as German Shepherds, should be out of the question for people with allergies.

Can you grow out of it?: Studies have shown that allergic children can coexist with dogs if they are exposed to them very early in life. But once they move away to college and live in dorms without dogs, they will lose that tolerance and their allergy symptoms could resurface when they are exposed again to dogs.

Tips: To minimize allergy symptoms, the AAAI says to keep pets out of the allergic person's bedroom. Animal dander collects on pillows, which can worsen symptoms during the night. Bathe animals weekly to reduce the amount of dander. Replace carpeting with hardwood or other solid surfaces for easier cleanups. Air filters (HEPA) may help clean the air. It may also be helpful to wash bedding and clothing in hot water.(source:Jodi Mailander Farrell, McClatchy-Tribune)

Alternative medicine may work for pets too

Robyn Young/for metro canada Paula Bedford, licensed veterinarian and Animal Health Technology instructor at Vancouver’s Douglas College, is pictured here with Rainbow, the Papillon who she nursed back to health using veterinary acupuncture.

When Paula Bedford first met Rainbow, the Papillon pup had a slipped disc pushing on her spinal cord, paralyzing her legs.

She’d been taken to traditional veterinarians and been treated with a variety of medications but her condition didn’t improve until Bedford started acupuncture.

“I wasn’t sure if she was going to respond but decided to take her home and see what we could do,” said the certified veterinary acupuncturist.

“We got her fully walking in six weeks.”

Now Bedford teaches about the technique and a number of other alternative medicines for animals to her students in the Animal Health Technology program at Douglas College in Vancouver.

Bedford became interested in veterinary acupuncture after repeatedly finding herself stumped by cases like Rainbow’s, where the only option left would have been expensive surgery.

“It’s another tool that we can use and we can combine (with traditional methods) to get another outcome,” she said.

The licensed veterinarian and instructor wants her students to be aware of the variety of treatment methods out there as techniques like acupuncture gain in popularity across the country.

“There aren’t very many of us who have done the certification so it can be difficult to find someone certified and then there are people who haven’t necessarily done the certification who offer acupuncture,” she said.

Similar to human medicine, you have to be careful about who you’re entrusting to provide that service for you and you should check into their credentials, she said.

The alternative medicine course Bedford teaches at Douglas College includes information about herbal medicine, both eastern and western, homeopathy and nutraceuticals in addition to veterinary acupuncture. (Source:ROBYN YOUNG, METRO CANADA )

Fashionable Dogs

A chihuahua dressed in a Chinese costume is paraded at the Woofstock 90210 pet show in Beverly Hills. (Photo: AFP)

DOG style has taken off full speed, with even an official addition three years ago of Pet Fashion Week in New York - the latest in a worldwide trend towards such shows - which highlights the most stylish apparel and products for dogs and other pets in the industry.

Pet Fashion Week - the 2009 staging will be held in New York this August - highlights products from partners in the pet industry including apparel, collars and leashes, toys, bedding, jewellery and accessories, fragrances as well as grooming and health products.

It's a reflection of an industry that has spiralled in the last few years, as more and more pet owners discover that they can deck their pets out in the latest gear too.

And so, you'll be hard- pressed to spot a celebrity with a pet that's not wearing the latest - a trend that has naturally also taken off in Jamaica.

Visit any pet store here and you'll be sure to find apparel for your dog or cat - it's all about looking good and giving off that diva aura.

Be aware though, that there are certain safety measures you must maintain in order to ensure that your dressed-up pet is comfortable. These include:
1. It may be understandable to dress pets up in areas where it's cold, but note that in hot countries like Jamaica, clothes will add more heat to an animal that needs to cool down.

2. Be sure the clothing fits appropriately.
Clothes that are too big could easily become caught on something, or the dog could become entangled in them. Clothes that are too small can be restrictive and cause injury.(Source: Jamaica Observer)

Do you have a cute dog that you absolutely love? Or are you into furballs - cute cats that purr? Turtles, guinea pigs, snakes perhaps? Are iguanas your 'cup of tea'? Or do you own something fascinatingly exotic? Does your pet - no matter how big or small, no matter the species - represent an extension of you, a big part of your life that you must share with others? Send us photos of your pets (and yourself if you wish) and tell us why you love them and why you chose them, and we'll reserve a space in Pets just for your loving companion. Send pictures by email to admin@mypetbids.com.

Spare Wandering Box Turtles

(Jefferson City, MO) Have you ever seen a turtle trying to cross a busy highway and wondered how many of these creatures die under the wheels of automobiles each year?

Workers at the Missouri Department of Conservation have made informal observations over the years, counting the number of dead turtles, especially box turtles, on stretches of highway. They've discovered that mortality rates are very high on high-traffic roads, whereas mortalities are much lower on less-traveled roads.

On May 26 last year, officials counted 116 three-toed box turtles crossing Highway 63 between Jefferson City and Cabool. Of those, 104 had been hit by vehicles.

Turtles are struck by cars throughout the warm months, but they are at special risk at this time of year, when they are moving around looking for mates and establishing home ranges. Young males are most at risk.

Comfort is a factor, too. Like other reptiles, turtles are cold-blooded. Walking out onto warm asphalt and basking in the morning sun feels good on cool spring days.

Dead precious

MARTIN DE RUYTER/ The Nelson Mail SERIUOS TEETH: Nelson Provincial Museum technician Timm Corrin with a model elasmosaur that will be part of the museum's upcoming fossils exhibition.

An example of an ancient New Zealand marine reptile which lived millions of years ago has been cosmetically enhanced in a popular school holiday project at the Nelson Provincial Museum.

The giant plesiosaur, which strictly speaking is an elasmosaur, has over past weeks had its skin added by close to 200 children looking for school holiday fun.

The 5.5-metre model will feature in the museum's forthcoming exhibition New Zealand Fossils Dead Precious, which opens on Saturday May 9. A neck vertebra and skull fossil of a real elasmosaur will also be on display.

It will join an example of another New Zealand dinosaur hypsilophodont (high crested tooth) which will feature in model carcass form.

Museum chief executive Peter Millward said the elasmosaur was made of polystyrene by museum technicians Stephen McCarthy and Timm Corrin, and decorated in papier mache by young students.

"Every day during the holidays children came and added paper and glue to the surface to create the skin. It now has to be painted and ready by the end of next week," Mr Millward said.

He said a pre-schooler in the crowd of children stood out for his fascination with the creature with "serious teeth".

"We had a 4 1/2 year-old spend an hour on each two days of last weekend. He was a bit shy at first, then his mum got him involved and then had to drag him out. The next day he was back helping," Mr Millward said.

He said the elasmosaur might have been called taniwhasaurus or moanasaurus in New Zealand. The long-necked and fast-swimming marine reptile with a relatively small body has been described as "what you might see if you pulled a snake through a tortoise".

A model of the 3m Haast Eagle for the exhibition was currently being made by Mapua Touch the Sea aquarium marine educator Richard de Hamel, who was a "superb model maker", Mr Millward said.

The exhibition, which started in 2007 on a three-year tour, showcases New Zealand fossils as indicators and predictors of climate change, evolution, natural disasters, and resources such as mineral deposits and oil and gas. It has been staged in association with GNS Science and Shell New Zealand.

GNS Science chief executive Alex Malahoff said the oldest fossils on show would be 500-million-year-old trilobites found in northwest Nelson. These were small crustaceans related to modern-day crabs and shrimps.

The youngest fossil is a moa bone less than one million years old. The exhibition in Nelson runs from May 9 until September 18.(Source: TRACY NEAL - The Nelson Mail )

Grieving for departed pets can be devastating

After the death of a beloved animal companion, memorializing a pet with a grave marker can be one way to help someone heal. (Image courtesy of Peternity.com )

Wagging tails, calming purrs and sloppy licks are some of the simple pleasures that dogs and cats deliver to their human companions day in and day out.

A pet’s warm love and friendship makes it that much more difficult to deal with the loss when Rover or Socks dies. Several Chicago animal organizations, therapists and pet funeral homes offer help to those who are grieving.

“It’s like losing a family member and it can be very devastating,” said Joslyn Jelinek, a Lincoln Park-based licensed clinical social worker who counsels people mourning the death of a pet. “I think we really talk about how pets are part of our lives. We dress them up. We take them places. But we don’t talk about how hard it is to go through the loss and the grieving.”

For many people, the loss of a pet is just as difficult, and sometimes more difficult than the passing of a human family member, said Gary Bloze, co-owner of the Illinois Pet Cemetery in Lincoln Square, one of the oldest pet cemeteries in the nation. And, since pets have shorter life spans than humans, people may face the loss many times over.

“It’s more or less immediate when you lose a pet, you feel it so hard right away,” Bloze said. “You never forget your pets.”

The deep sense of bereavement can become even more stressful when coupled with the fact that some people may be insensitive to a friend or colleague mourning the death of a dog or cat.

“What you feel is what you feel, and that bond is very strong,” Jelinek said. “I think we’re fooling ourselves to say it’s insignificant.”

It’s hard to tell your boss you need the day off because you lost your dog, Jelinek said, so coping strategies may need to be designed around someone’s life. Coming home without someone greeting you at the door with a slobbery hello can bring on a “flood of sadness,” Jelinek said.

Jelinek recommends calling the pet loss helpline run through University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine for anyone experiencing a particularly difficult moment.

The help line allows callers “to reach out to people who understand, and to understand that it is okay to be upset over the death of a companion animal, to understand that its okay to feel really sad or angry or guilty,” said Cheryl Weber, a client counselor specialist with the vet school. “Those are all normal emotions and, even though it is a pet, the grief from pet loss can be very, very intense.”

Helping children mourn the loss of a pet can be trickier, as kids are sometimes left out of the equation while parents are dealing with their own sadness. Sometimes a pet has been a part of a child’s entire life and the death can mean losing the furry equivalent of a big brother or sister.

Memorializing the lost dog or cat in some way is very important to help a child cope, Jelinek said. Putting together a memorial scrapbook, or visiting a special beach or park that the pet particularly enjoyed can help.

Visiting a pet’s gravesite at a cemetery is another way to memorialize and celebrate its lives.

At Elm Lawn Cemetery in Elmhurst, parts of the grounds are for human burials, and other parts are for the animals. Most of the time, there are many more flowers on the animal side, said Cindy Swerdon, a sales counselor.

To make the burial process easier, the cemetery offers a pick-up service because sometimes it is just too difficult for someone to physically put the pet in the car and bring it in, Swerdon said. The Illinois Pet Cemetery, which has around 16,000 animals buried at its facility in Hanover Park, offers a similar service.

Moving on with life can bring up other feelings besides sadness, Jelinek said. Pet owners often feel guilty if they get a new pet, as though they are betraying their best friend. If euthanasia is involved, guilt can overshadow sadness. Many people second-guess their decision to put their dog or cat down, but sometimes it’s just the right thing to do.

“You can’t always let nature take its course. Intervening is sometimes the most humane thing to do,” Jelinek said.

Everyone’s relationships with their animal companions are unique, so the grieving process and coping strategies will vary from person to person or family to family.

“Do what works for you but definitely feel the feelings that you’re having, take the time that you need, tell people - tell people who you know will listen,” Jelinek said.

And while dogs and cats may get the most press, losing a fish, bird, reptile, ferret or chinchilla can be equally hard.

“Anyone in the kingdom is important, they’re all considered friends and companions,” Jelinek said. (Source: Tiffany Glick, Medill Reports Chicago)

Wasps: Man's New Best Friend!
Entomologists Train Insects to Act Like Sniffing Dogs

If rewarded with sugary water, wasps can be trained in minutes to follow specific smells. The olfactory sensors in their antennae can sense chemicals in the air in concentrations as tiny as a few parts per billion. Wasps could be cost-effective helpers in searching for explosives, toxic chemicals, and even fungi on crops.

ATHENS, Ga. -- Wasps are not man's best friend -- probably their worst. But when it comes to sniffing out trouble, scientists believe they may be better than dogs.

They ward off intruders, track down criminals, find bombs and detect toxic chemicals, but dogs could soon be replaced by wasps. They have the same sensitive odor detection as dogs and are now being trained to sniff out trouble.

"The advantages of a wasp over a dog is you can produce them by the thousands. They are real inexpensive, and you can train them in a matter of minutes," Joe Lewis, a research entomologist at University of Georgia in Athens, tells DBIS.

He and Biological and agricultural engineer Glen Rains are doing just that. Olfactory sensors on the wasps' antennae can smell chemicals in concentrations as tiny as a few parts per billion in the air.

"So far, they've been able to detect, to some level, any chemical that we've trained them to," Rains tells DBIS.

Training is simple and quick. The wasps are fed sugar water. At the same time they're introduced to a smell for 10 seconds. The process is repeated two more times.

Lewis says, "We can train a wasp within a matter of 10 to 15 minutes."

For example, a set of wasps is trained to detect the smell of coffee. When they are put into a simple container, a tiny web camera watches their actions. When the smell of orange is pumped into the pipe, nothing. But when it's coffee, the wasps crowd around the smell.

So far, Rains and Lewis have not found anything the wasps cannot be trained to detect. They can be trained to detect everything from drugs to human remains to fungi on crops. They could one day even be able to detect deadly diseases like cancer.

BACKGROUND: Scientists from the University of Georgia and the USDA Agricultural Research Service are training wasps to detect the telltale odors of concealed explosives, drugs and human remains, and possibly one day certain diseases like cancer. They are now investigating whether it is possible to train mosquitoes as living odor detectors as well, and plan to eventually study other insects with excellent sniffing ability, like honeybees and moths.

HOW IT WORKS: The Georgia scientists have built a device they call the Wasp Hound: an odor-detection device that costs around $60. It is made of a small PVC tube containing five wasps that can be trained to detect any target odor within minutes. The device has a fan at the top, which draws odors into the tube through a filter. If the wasps catch a whiff of whatever they've been trained to smell, they crowd around a hole in the filter. A web cam inside the tube is attached to a computer, which alerts the operator to the wasps' reaction with a beep or a flashing light. The Wasp Hound could be used by farmers to monitor crops for diseases and pests; to check for explosives in airport security applications; to help doctors monitor diseases, or even by defense forces searching for buried land mines.

ADVANTAGES: Unlike dogs and the electronic sensors more commonly used today, wasps are cheap and disposable. It costs pennies and takes minutes to train them: Feed them sugar water while introducing them to a target smell for 10 seconds; give them a 30-second break, repeat the process twice more, and they are completely trained to track that single scent.

ABOUT WASPS: Wasps have olfactory sensors on their antennae that they use to stay alive. For instance, one strain of wasp lays its eggs inside a specific variety of caterpillar. The insects are attracted to the caterpillars by chemicals released by plans as the caterpillars much on them -- a type of SOS signal from the plants. This is also how wasps attract mates. Wasps can sense chemicals in concentrations as tiny as a few parts per billion in the air ý the same range to which dogs and chemical sensors are sensitive. Some species can pick up scents at concentrations as low as one part in a thousand billion, which is a hundred thousand times weaker that the concentrations detectable by commercial "electronic noses."(Source: Science Daily)

AB 241 will address the problem of puppy mills by limiting to 50, the number of unaltered dogs or cats anyone can own. The bill will aid animal control employees to more effectively deal with situations where animals are living in squalid conditions without proper care. Similar legislation has passed in Louisiana and Virginia due to the wide ranging public concern about the inhumane conditions subjected to animals kept in puppy mills.

Taxpayers may save millions of dollars should AB 241 pass, as caring for animals rescued from puppy mills can cost into the tens of thousands of dollars per week. In 2007 California animal shelters cared for over 1 million animals, half of whom were euthanized. The costs associated with this problem are estimated to be $250 million annually.

For more information on whether or not your local Assemblyperson is sitting on the committee scheduled to vote on AB 241 tomorrow morning, visit this website. Voters who care about the puppy mill issue are encouraged to call their legislator to voice their opinions.(Source:The Examiner)

The Information: Domestication of animals

Humans and animals began to live together about 15,000 years ago, when dogs were domesticated. Cats and men began a coalition of interests around 8,500BC in the Fertile Crescent: cats liked hunting mice around the humans’ grain stores and humans were happy to be rid of the rodents. It’s a relationship that has only got better – in the UK, a 2007 survey by Cats Protection found that 26 per cent of male cat owners and 40 per cent of female owners would rather change partners than give up their pets.

Sources: Cats Protection, Cats and the Family survey 2007; Science News;

Recently, researchers at Exeter University established that horses were domesticated 1,000 years earlier than previously believed. According to their report, published in the journal Science News, archaeological findings in Kazakhstan, including horse teeth bearing the indentations of bridles, suggest that horses were ridden by the Botai tribe as early as 3,500BC. Also discovered were pots containing ancient traces of horse milk – to this day considered a delicacy by Kazakh horsemen. (Source:By Meredith Haaf,The Financial Times Limited 2009)

Pet lemon law could be tough to enforce

Changes state lawmakers want to make to Connecticut's pet lemon law will give the anti-puppy-mill statute both more teeth and less bite at the same time.

That's the assessment of some pet shop owners, kennel operators and industry observers.

The bill to amend Connecticut's pet lemon law aims to give consumers more recourse to return unhealthy puppies and kittens and seek full refunds for the purchase price along with reimbursement, up to $500 for veterinary care and medicine.

Still, there is a catch to it: a veterinarian has to certify that the animal acquired its illness at the pet store. And that may be tricky to prove with the bill's new extended return policy.

"If Connecticut passes this bill as it is written, extending the warranty period from 15 to 30 days for the return of a sick pet, it will have a longer return policy than any other state of the 18 states in the country that has a pet lemon law," said Michael Maddox, director of government relations for the Pet Industry Joint Advisory Council. "Moreover, giving a 30-day window will complicate the job of veterinarians."

A puppy can incubate a virus or a cold for up to two weeks before it becomes sick or shows symptoms.

"If the burden is on a veterinarian to say at day 25 or day 30 whether what the puppy acquired this illness at the pet shop, it would be impossible for them to say for sure," Maddox said. "Many veterinarians may be reluctant or would refuse to certify that

the puppy got sick at the pet shop. The result is the consumer may be left with a pet they can neither return nor seek reimbursement for its medical bills. That is the opposite, we think, of what this pet lemon law seeks to accomplish. In the end, it may give consumers less warranty protections than they think."

But the rub, say pet shops, veterinarians and pet industry organizations, is that the law is simultaneously overbroad and underinclusive. The law only pertains to puppies and kittens sold by pet shops and commercial kennels. Left out of the equation are merchants who sell these animals over the Internet, breeders exempt from U.S. Department of Agriculture licensing requirements as well as private pounds.

Nationwide, the Pet Industry Joint Advisory Council and the American Pet Products Association say only 8 percent of all puppies are purchased from pet shops. Pet-related sales are big business in the United States, with $43.8 billion spent last year, including $2.1 billion on animal purchases.

We have no problem with the bulk of the provisions of this law. We already do at least 95 percent of what's in it," said Monty Kaufman, co-owner of Puppies of Westport. "We provide all ownership information, and unlike most other pet stores, we only buy from USDA licensees or those small specialized [hobby] breeders" exempt from USDA regulations "because they are too small."

The USDA regulates animal dealers, exhibitors and operators of animal auctions under the Animal Welfare Act. In 2007, the USDA's Animal Care Program received $17.4 million for enforcement activities, which included 8,069 compliance inspections of 5,239 animal dealers, who include breeders, finding 97 percent meeting federal standards for animal care, and imposing $614,132 in civil penalties on the 3 percent it found to have committed violations.

"The USDA issues breeders licenses to those who have more than three breeding females and sell to commercial operations such as pet stores," said Jessica Milteer, a spokeswoman for the USDA, "We do not regulate those who breed dogs and then sell them directly to the public" or those with fewer than three breeding female dogs.

It's unclear whether there are any USDA-licensed dog breeders in Connecticut.

"Our latest list shows three licensed breeders in Connecticut, but it looks like only one of them is potentially selling dogs," Milteer said, adding that she uses the word "potentially" because if you are licensed under the Animal Welfare Act to breed animals, you can breed any animal the act covers, whether it's dogs, cats, rabbits or sugar gliders. So it is possible that there are no licensed dog breeders in Connecticut."

And if there are no USDA-licensed dog breeders based in Connecticut, that means pet shops -- under the proposed revisions to the pet lemon law -- could not buy puppies from any in-state breeders. That's because the bill specifies that pet stores can an only sell puppies that come from USDA-licensed breeders and brokers. It provides no exemption from USDA licensing, as the current law allows.

The new law requires that pet stores and commercial kennels post signs that inform consumers of the name, address and telephone number of anyone who had custody of the puppy or kitten from birth to the date of sale. If there are omissions or false information, the pet store owner may be liable, under the bill, for fines of $100 per day and 30 days in jail. Each day is considered a separate violation, a situation that concerns pet shops because they say there may be intermediaries in the chain of custody that they have no knowledge of.

Colette Griffin, an attorney who belongs to the Connecticut Bar Association's Animal Law Advisory Committee, feels conflicted about pet lemon laws and what they can accomplish.

"Pet lemon laws are absurd and counterproductive on a certain level. Buying a pet is not like buying a car. Pet owners get attached to their pets. In the end, most of them don't want a refund or to return their pet. But that's the choice they have to make," Griffin said. "If they've really bonded with their puppy, all this lemon law gives them is money damages.

"This law forces the pet shops to make sure that their animals are healthy and come from reputable breeders. This law means that the pet shops really would have to investigate and know who they are dealing with and trace back these animals so that consumers would know whether they came from a puppy mill or not. [It] seems like a reasonable requirement," despite the penalty, she said. (Source:By MariAn Gail Brown, ConnPost)

The (Scary) Truth About Cats and Dogs

Hello, kitty: During kitten season, it’s harder for Lady Eleanor (pictured) and her friends to find homes because so many cats come in to city shelters. Photo by Michael Persico

It’s been four months since the PSPCA took over the city’s animal shelter system. It’s failing.

Every year, roughly 31,000 animals funnel into the city’s Animal Care and Control Center (ACCT) shelter on West Hunting Park Avenue in North Philadelphia.

This animal shelter is the primary chance homeless animals—mostly stray cats and dogs, and with the recession, more and more house pets—have at living healthy lives and finding new homes. Animal advocates bring them here to save them from sometimes fatal dangers of living on the streets: disease, fighting with wild animals and kidney failure brought on by licking bowls of antifreeze placed on porches as renegade population control.

But now, insiders say, shelter conditions have gotten so bad that animals need to be saved from the very place they go for protection.

Since the Pennsylvania Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (PSPCA) reassumed Philadelphia’s animal control contract in January, reports of intake backlog, overcrowding, fuzzy numbers and infectious disease outbreaks have oozed out of the shelter in a steady stream.

Insiders allege that shelter conditions and protocol are crumbling. Rescue workers (who regularly pull animals out of the shelter and place them in homes) and volunteers say they’ve never seen so many sick animals come out of the Hunting Park shelter. One foster parent with more than 20 years experience says that in the last few months, all 18 of the kittens she rescued from ACCT have died.

“They might seem fine the day you pull them, but within two weeks, they’re gone,” she says. “My backyard is like a graveyard.”

Misery Behind the Mystery

Stories about degenerating animal care at the shelter have been swirling for months now, but have been slow to reach the public because the people close enough to the shelter to see what’s happening say they are afraid to talk. Many of the rescue workers and volunteers interviewed for this story asked that PW withhold their names for fear of retaliation.

The phrase “Please don’t use my name” was as common as the odd, seemingly paranoid behavior that followed requests for an interview: an urgent call from a gas station pay phone; in-person interviews cancelled at the last second; unfulfilled promises to get back in touch after consulting a lawyer. Mistrust and suspicion coursed through emails and phone calls. Animal control in Philadelphia has taken on a Rosemary’s Baby vibe.

I wouldn’t put it past them to ban me from the shelter, said one source after another.

Interviewees point to blackballed rescuer Margaret Boritz as an example of what can happen when you question or criticize the treatment of animals inside ACCT.

Boritz says she combed the shelter almost every day for animals to rescue until she began criticizing shelter practices and got kicked out. Boritz says she was advised that she was banned from the shelter “pending cruelty charges” on March 15. She says she has not received documentation of the charge.

“I asked too many questions, made too many people uncomfortable, offered solutions to the problems and I got banned,” she says. PSPCA Board President Harrise Yaron says she has no knowledge of a ban or cruelty allegation against Boritz.

Staffers and volunteers report having to sign confidentiality agreements in order to gain access; longtime rescue partners have been locked out of the database; panicked employees worry about members of the board of directors reading their emails. Given Boritz’s situation and tales like that of Dr. Murarka—the PSPCA head vet fired last month after allegedly providing vet services to a kennel under investigation for dog-fighting (PSPCA calls it conflict of interest)—insiders say they’re concerned that the fox is guarding the henhouse.

They’re scared for the animals and for themselves if they speak up. They’re worried that the whole situation’s so politically corrupt that animal welfare will soon backslide into medieval times—which in Philly, was just a few years ago. (Source: By Tara Murtha, Philadelphia weekly)

Local equestrian community reeling from horse deaths

The equestrian community in Palm Beach County is still reeling over the deaths of 21 polo horses. Tony Coppola has been running The Tackeria for more than 30 years now in Palm Beach County. And he admits that this Monday, the mood around the horse supply store seems a bit different.

"It's just a shock. Disbelief. Of course we're grieving for the horses and the owners of the horses," said Coppola.

The news of the deaths of the horses, right before a match Sunday, has spread all over the Wellington community.

"You wonder. It's almost like the whole town's in mourning. People are driving a bit slower and it's very sad," said horse lover, Bobbi Morency.

And it's sadness not only for the animals, but also for the owners of the horses. Janice Rosen, an owner herself, feels the pain just as if the animals were hers.

"When you're involved with horses you love them and you care about everyone's horse. When you hear something like that that's so tragic. Your heart goes out to these people," said Rosen.

"Horses are our pets, just like a person has a dog or a cat. I mean I've had horses that have been injured or I've had to put down or the lost for reasons over the years and it's just heartbreaking," added Coppola.

And as the community copes with the loss, officials with the US Polo Association say they are struggling as well.

"I got to tell you, I'm so into this right now I don't know how we're going to move on. It's horrifying. It's shocking. We don't even have words to describe," said USPA executive director, Peter Razzo.

People are also hoping that it is in fact an isolated incident, because they say they're concerned for their horses as well. (Source: Althea Paul, author)

4-H dog club increases membership

NV ~ The Fernley Paws and Claws 4-H Dog Club’s three-year-term past-president, and teen leader, Andi Bolstad, active in many local 4-H clubs, recently became vice-president of the busy group. Other new officers are Hailey Cushman, president; Levi Merlin, secretary; and Chelsea Wafler, reporter.

The Paws and Claws 4-H Dog Club meets every Thursday at 5:30 pm at Diamond F Park. Currently, Club members are concentrating on preparing their dogs for a May 16 fun match at the Out-of-Town Park.

The upcoming dog show is open to anyone including adults and youth, 4-H and non-4H members. The group invites everyone to come and have a good time. Entries are due by May 8.

During their weekly meetings, members are mainly focusing on working hard to be ready to show their canines at the Lyon County Fair in Yerington in August and the Nevada State Fair at the Reno Livestock Event Center after that. In the meantime with 22 young people in the club, there is still room for new members if they want to visit a meeting to see if they are interested in the activities.

“Anyone can join as long as they have a dog — breed and age doesn’t matter,” Andi Bolstad said.

Bolstad’s mother, Barbara, (along with two other adult co-leaders and Andi), work with dog owners and their pets by splitting the large group up into four smaller groups. Both Barbara and Andi are experienced leaders, having been active in the club since moving to Fernley six years ago.

“We work on team obedience commands, showmanship, agility and rally,” Andi said.

“Rally” is a new category that was recently added. Unlike the agility (obstacle course), rally consists of a course marked by signs where the trainer must make the dog perform what each individual sign says as they come to it.

The number of dogs that are trained through the club varies. Although some members may have only one dog, Andi trains all three of her dogs. Each is a different breed, a miniature schnauzer, a miniature poodle and an Australian Border Collie Cross-breed.

Her animals have different abilities. Like Andi, other members pick and choose which particular class they want their dogs to work in depending on their own abilities and needs.

Various categories are available for competition and general training. Members also learn about dog care as well as training, guide dog training and dog showmanship.

The club is a good place to learn what a dog needs in the way of everyday care including nutrition, grooming and teaching them general good manners. Members also learn the parts of a dog for showmanship.
(Source:By MARY JEAN KELSO, LVN Correspondent)

Meet Henry, a three-legged cat out to save the world

Henry likes his martini straight up - water only no gin.

If anyone doubts the power of one, then let me share the story of a three-legged cat named Henry. This cat entered the lives of two women who considered themselves dedicated dog lovers. They never really understood cats and never had a desire to have a cat in their lives.

Until they met Henry.

A few years ago, Henry showed up as a young kitten on the vacation home of Cathy Conheim, a psychotherapist, and Donna Brooks, MD, a retired physician, in Julian, California. They put food out for the kitten, but were content share their home with Dolly, a black poodle.

On a return trip, they discovered Henry in their driveway with his left front leg mangled. They took him to a local veterinarian who gave them two options: euthanasia, or pay for a pricey operation that involved amputation. Without hesitation, they paid for his medical care and found themselves adopting a fast-growing, playful kitten who did not seem bothered by the lack of one of his legs.

So, Conheim began to e-mail friends about this feline symbol for hope and determination. She wrote in Henry’s “voice” and interest grew to include cat-loving people from all over the globe.

He became a Top Ten finalist in 2008 for the Animal Planet’s Cat Hero of the Year award. Jack Canfield, co-creator of the Chicken Soup book series, praised the book on Henry by stating, “This is a sweet story with an important message for everyone for reads it. It is definitely Chicken Soup for my soul.”

Conheim devotes her days to share Henry’s story in order to inspire others. As she explains, “Henry reminds us that we are defined not by our misfortunes, but by our responses to them.” For more info: Learn more about Henry by visiting his website: www.henrysworld.org (Source:Tampa Examiner)

Airline for pets soon to take off

Associated Press file photo: A dog and owner check in at LaGuardia Airport in New York.

The skies may become a little more pet friendly this summer, thanks to a new Delray Beach, Fla., company.

Pet Airways announced yesterday that it will begin offering air transportation for pets in five U.S. cities, including Washington, starting in July, the South Florida Sun-Sentinel reports.

The pets, which the company calls “pawsengers,” will fly in lighted and climate-controlled cabins of turbo-prop planes whose seats have been removed. Pet owners are not allowed to travel with their pets, but can monitor the flights on a Web site, the company said. Also an attendant will travel onboard to care for the animals. The average fare will be about $250 each way, the Sun-Sentinel reports.

In addition to Washington, the airline will serve New York, Chicago, Denver and Los Angeles. More cities could be added later, the company said.

The announcement of the service generated so much interest that traffic to the company's Web site crashed the company's computers this afternoon. (Source: Balitmore Sun)

Will your Pet be banned?

Captive Savannah Monitor Lizard

Besides dogs and cats, do you keep any other animals as pets? I keep a 3 foot Savannah Monitor lizard who I have had since she was a baby eight years ago. Maybe you don’t keep reptiles but what about birds, aquarium fish or small fuzzy animals like hamsters, gerbils, guinea pigs and ferrets? Are you aware that very soon it may be against the law to keep these animals as pets?

What I am referring to is H.R. 669 or the Nonnative Wildlife Invasion Prevention Act.

The supposed purpose of H.R. 669 is “To prevent the introduction and establishment of nonnative wildlife species that negatively impact the economy, environment or other animal species or human health and for other purposes.” Other purposes? What exactly is that supposed to mean?

On April 23, 2009 the Natural Resources Committee of the United States Congress will hold a hearing on H.R. 669. If this resolution passes it will ban the importation, exportation, transport, breeding and private ownership of the majority of the animals in the pet industry today.

The Humane Society of the United States, Defenders of Wildlife and The Nature Conservancy are all part of a coalition pushing for the bill to be adopted with no amendments.

The listing process is complex and in order to place a species on the approved list the Fish and Wildlife Service must conduct a risk assessment to determine whether or not the species will meet the criteria. Based on scientific and commercial information the Fish and Wildlife Service must make a determination that the particular species is a) Not likely to be harmful to the U.S economy, environment or other animals’ and human health OR b) May be harmful “but already are so widespread in the U.S that it is clear to the secretary that any import restrictions would have no practical utility for the United States.

If passed into law, the resolution would be regulated by the Lacey Act.
The Lacey Act protects wildlife by enforcing civil and criminal penalties for anything deemed a violation. The Lacey Act was introduced by Iowa Congressman, John Lacey in the year 1900 and has undergone several amendments since then. The original act was mainly targeted at making it a federal crime to poach in one state and sell bounty in another. Currently the list of animals covered under the Lacey Act is very limited and includes the following species:

• Cattle or oxen
• Chickens
• Domestic cats
• Domestic dogs
• Donkeys
• Geese (domestic)
• Ducks
• Goats
• Goldfish
• Horses
• Llama
• Mules
• Pigs
• Rabbits (domestic)
• Sheep

Last year, the Pet Industry Joint Advisal Council (PIJAC) testified for the pet industry opposing H.R. 6311, the 2008 version of the Nonnative Wildlife Invasion Prevention Act. PIJAC reports that H.R. 669 contains many of the same problematic provisions as H.R. 6311 as well as containing even more restrictions. PIJAC maintains that while they completely support the development of a plan that would prevent the introduction of harmful nonnative species into the U.S they do not support H.R. 669 in its current drafting for several reasons. PIJAC continues to fight hard to prevent this new resolution from passing. You can read all about H.R 669 and receive important updates on the bill by visiting PIJAC on the web.

“Is there anything I can do?” you may be wondering. Yes, there is something you can do and I hope that all pet owners will pitch in to help if they feel strongly about the situation. Please, write to your congress. You can easily do this by visiting the no on H.R. 669 website. They have a page set up where you can send an e-mail to your congress or print out a pre-written example of a letter opposing H.R. 669.

If H.R. 669 was to pass, the pet industry as we know it would come crumbling down almost overnight. Pet stores that deal mainly in tropical fish, small animals, birds and/or reptiles would be dealt a devastating economical blow. Hundreds of thousands of businesses could suddenly be facing a grave future. Another thing is although they claim that the inclusion of an animal legally owned prior to the passing of the law may be permitted to be "grandfathered in" if it is proven that the pet was indeed owned previously, there is nothing to say what it will take to prove the pet legal. There is speculation that such a bill would end in pet's being removed and mass euthanasia. (Source: Megan Brooks, The Examiner)

Boo's back feline fine after 65-mile adventure

Lee Bishop reunited with Boo

It appears the adventurous cat had accidentally hitched a ride to this region when it jumped in a van while a company was installing loft insulation at the Bishops' home in Barcombe, near Lewes, in East Sussex.

But when the van returned home to Mark Insulation's Segensworth branch, Boo scarpered without being seen.

Over the next few days a cat-loving resident noticed the new stray in her neighbourhood in nearby Catisfield, Fareham, and when she was able to get close enough to catch him, took Boo to the Stubbington Ark.

There he was tested for an identification microchip, which immediately told staff who he belonged to.

Lee Bishop was overwhelmed to get the call telling her Boo had been found. The 66-year-old said: 'I was out when they were doing the work that morning, but when I come home he's usually there waiting for me.

'So when he wasn't there I was a bit surprised. He's well known in the neighbourhood, and always wandering around, but when he still hadn't appeared that evening we were rather perturbed.'

Over the next few days their efforts to track down Boo became increasingly frantic – putting up leaflets, knocking on doors and contacting the local paper.

Mrs Bishop added: 'When we got the call saying he had been found we drove straight over to Stubbington.

'It was the worst nine days of my life when he was gone. To get him back is like winning the lottery. If he hadn't been microchipped he would never have made it back.

'It must have been a ghastly experience for him – he used a couple of his nine lives on this one.'

Vanessa Eden, fundraising manager at the ark, said: 'I really advise people to get their animals microchipped.

'Cases like this highlight how important it is – without that microchip Boo would never have made his way back to his owners.'

MICROCHIPS FOR PETS

A microchip is the same size as a grain of rice and is painlessly inserted under the animal's skin. The microchip contains the owners and animal's details and is stored on PetLog, a national database. (Source: By Chris Broom, The News)

Taking the bite out of dog interaction

Helping children to correctly judge the mood dogs like “Isis” are in is the goal of a dog bite prevention program offered by Hudson Road Animal Hospital. Staff photo by Tom Carothers

Who doesn’t love a dog? With floppy ears, sad eyes and a usually friendly disposition, it’s no wonder they’re nicknamed “man’s best friend.”

But people still need to be careful around them, because under that cute canine face can be a set of decidedly-sharp teeth.

The Hudson Road Animal Hospital is offering a free “Dog Bite Prevention Program,” which gives tips and lessons about how to act around a dog to prevent getting bitten.

“Dogs are fun, they love to play, they’re happy animals,” Marcella Ward, practice manager at Hudson Road Animal Hospital, said. “But just like kids, they can get scared. Just like kids they can get mad, just like kids sometimes they don’t want to play.”

“The Dog Bite Prevention Program” was designed by the Minnesota Veterinary Medical Association in cooperation with the University of Minnesota College of Veterinary Medicine.

Through the program, a veterinarian or technician would come to a school and educate children, kindergarten through grade six, about how to behave around dogs. They will use a Powerpoint presentation and various other skits and demonstrations.

The presentation lessons range from how to approach a dog, when not to approach a dog and what to do if an unknown dog comes running at them.

The program also educates students about basic body language since dogs are different than humans.

Ward said she feels that the “Dog Bite Prevention Program” is a beneficial program for children because, now that the weather is starting to warm up, they’re going to be outdoors more often.

It is increasingly likely that they are going to cross paths with some dogs, but without knowing how to approach or behave around them, they are vulnerable to bites.

“Kids are definitely out more, they’re out on their bikes, they’re out on walks and if a dog comes near them, they have to know the right techniques to approach a dog or not approach a dog,” she said.

The program also teaches about puppies and their tendency to bite while playing, and how to teach them otherwise.

“Dogs and puppies are very oral,” Ward said. “They don’t have hands like we do, so they can’t feel with their hands. So they feel with their mouths.”

Ward said she hopes that the schools will takethe initiative to bring this program to their students because it is a surefire way to educate kids about dogs and how to act around them.

“Dogs are different from us,” Ward said. “Kids just want to hug and be around a dog; but dogs get tired, too. They will give us a warning usually, but kids don’t always recognize those warnings.”(Source:Amber Kispert Woodbury Bulletin)

The Obamas finally got their new puppy, a curly-coated little charmer they're calling Bo. And right on cue, every pet-related organization and interest group in America weighed in on the choice and what it means for the nation's dogs.

The American Kennel Club was happy that a purebred dog from a responsible breeder got the nod. The Portuguese Water Dog Club of America expressed pleasure tempered with caution, worrying that presidential attention to their little-known breed would create a market for puppies bred for profit by people who don't know or care about the dogs.

The Humane Society of the United States congratulated the First Family on its new member, then lamented that they didn't adopt a shelter dog or a homeless pet from a rescue group. They were joined by dozens of other animal rights and welfare organizations, all saying the same thing with varying degrees of vehemence.

Nor were pet owners silent on the issue. Some people tore themselves away from their Easter celebrations long enough to rant and rave on a dozen blogs about how the Obamas failed to set a good example for the nation by adopting a shelter dog, while others rejoiced that they'd chosen a reputable breeder instead of a puppy mill or pet store dog.

Yes, everyone has an opinion and everyone wants to prove something, and everyone thinks the Obamas either got it right or got it wrong, and has a thousand reasons for whatever it is he thinks.

And pretty much every single one of them is missing the point.

Yes, I mean you, too, shelter pet advocates. I know you felt especially betrayed because President Obama had said the family wanted to adopt a rescued dog if they could. And the reason he gave for why he might not be able to do that was his daughter Malia's allergies.

Some dogs have a type of coat, known as a "single coat," which sheds less than the more common, canine double coat. It is dander, not coat, that triggers allergies, and the dander of single-coated dogs is just as allergenic as dander from any other dog. But less shedding means less dander in the environment, so many people with allergies react less to single-coated dogs.

The Portuguese Water Dog is one of a handful of single-coated breeds. They're also a fairly rare breed, and not often found in animal shelters or rescue groups. While there are unethical, greedy breeders of these dogs -- and likely to be more in the near future -- the Portuguese Water Dog Club of America keeps a tight rein on its member breeders, at least.

But many shelter advocates didn't give a damn that there wasn't likely to be a PWD in a shelter or rescue group. Why did the Obamas need a purebred dog at all? Surely there were single-coated dogs languishing in shelters all over the country? What about a poodle or poodle mix? After all, those dogs are very popular in puppy mills, and they have a single coat.

And this is where we get to the whole mixed point, folks. Let me tell you why the Obamas wanted a Portuguese Water Dog, and Bo: Because they fell in love.

The Obamas' good family friend -- Sen. Ted Kennedy -- has three PWDs. He brings them to his Senate office. One of his dogs, Splash, even narrated a children's book that Kennedy wrote, called "My Senator and Me: A dog's eye view of Washington, DC."

So here's what I think happened: The Obama girls got to know the Kennedys' dogs. They liked them. Like a million other little kids before them, they wanted a dog not as a symbolic act or political message but because they liked the way he splashed in the ocean, chased a ball and cocked his head when he looked at them.

And their parents liked them, too. So when the Kennedys told them that a littermate of their puppy, Cappy, was driving his current family's older dog crazy with his wild puppy ways and needed a new home, it seemed perfect. The puppies' breeder agreed, and the Obama girls welcomed this happy, clownish little guy as their very own dog.

And everyone in this country who cares about dogs, whether they're in loving homes or shelters or rescue groups or wandering the streets, should rejoice over this. Do you know why?

Because the love of animals is the driving force behind every humane initiative and fundraising drive in the world. It's why people volunteer at shelters and donate pet food to rescue groups. It's why people do breed rescue or fight to end animal cruelty in the first place.

And if they felt that love, that powerful bond, for the first time with a purebred dog, with a dog who reminds them of a family friend's beloved pet, does that really matter? Whatever opens the heart, gets that little hook in there, that's the important thing. That's the transformational force.

That love will get more pets out of shelters than all the nagging lectures in the world. So if you really want to see the Obamas become champions for companion animals, you should be throwing a big "welcome home" party for Bo, not trying to make them feel guilty about how and where they got him. (Source:By Christie Keith, Special to SF Gate)

No Easter Bunny, but gator on a leash

CRESTLINE -- Forget the eggs. This year Charlie Swain decided to dye her pets for the holidays. This Easter, the Bucyrus woman is celebrating with a purple poodle and a pink guinea pig. Swain took the pair Saturday to the Lowe-Volk Park Nature Center for the Animal Extravaganza.

"I just like educating people about leaving animals in the wild," she said. "I've been into animals since I was a child."

Crawford Park District Director Bill Fisher said this year marks the third for the extravaganza.

"We want to give families this experience with the animals so they feel comfortable with them," he said. "We also want to show them possibilities of good pets. We encourage the handlers to let the kids handle the animals today."

Throughout the center, children strolled around with birds on their shoulders, snakes wrapped around their arms and alligators on leashes.

Alec Hillman, 13, felt right at home in the zoo-like atmosphere. The Bucyrus youngster owns a water frog, a leopard frog, a toad, a tree frog, an oscillated skink, a bearded dragon, a guinea pig, two cats and a bird.

"Our house has been overrun, but that's what he's into," his mother Micki said with a laugh. "He wants to be an exotic veterinarian. He's very good with them."

"I just like how they eat and stuff," Hillman said of his animals.

Ellen Harnish walked around with her co-worker's blue-tongued skink.

"He's real friendly and gets lots of attention," she said.

Nearby, her sulcata tortoise milled around her feet.

"He runs the house," she said. "He gets under chairs and the next thing you know, you'll see the chair moving."

Kristin Stanford, an Ohio State University research associate working on the recovery plan for the Lake Erie watersnake, attended to educate guests about the endangered species.

This medium-sized non-venomous snake was put on the U.S. endangered species list in 1999.

"They're not very friendly and they're very aggressive, so that makes them a challenge," Stanford said. "We do a lot of outreach in the community. Kids think it's neat to have an endangered species right in their back yard." (Source: JAMI KINTON, News Journal )

Quincy Humane Society warns of distemper : Stresses importance of pet vaccines

QUINCY, IL -- The Quincy Humane Society has experienced a recent exposure of the Canine Distemper Virus or "CDV."

It was imported through a litter of puppies from Knox City, Missouri.

The humane society has put a hold on accepting new puppies and dogs until its risk assessments are complete.

Symptoms depend on the virus strain, the host's age and the animal's immune system.

Executive Director Sally Westerhoff says she hopes the occurrence will remind pet owners to make sure their pets are vaccinated.

The humane society has contacted local veterinarians and people who have adopted from the humane society in the past month to give them a heads up.

Westerhoff says dogs brought to the shelter's spay and neuter clinics are safe and that the shelter will continue its weekly low-cost vaccination clinics.

News release from the Quincy Humane Society:
The Quincy Humane Society has experienced a recent exposure of the Canine Distemper Virus(CDV). This was imported through a litter of puppies from Knox City, Missouri. CDV is also found in foxes, wolves, coyotes and raccoons. The virus is transmitted by bodily fluids, aerosol and droplet exposure. Incubation time for the CDV is 7 days to 5 weeks with 21 days being more typical. Systemic signs vary depending on the virulence of the virus strain, host age and immune condition. Mild forms include listlessness, decreased appetite, fever and upper respiratory tract infection with discharge from the eyes and nose. Severe generalized distemper can occur in dogs of any age but most commonly affects unvaccinated, exposed puppies 12-16 weeks of age that have lost their maternal immunity or those that have received inadequate maternal immunity. The first signs are fever, mild serous to mucopurulent conjunctivitis (redness and inflammation of the white of the eye) dry cough that rapidly becomes moist and productive. Depression, loss of appetite followed by vomiting and diarrhea. Adequate therapy can decrease the risk in many cases.

We are currently conducting risk assessments on the dogs we have in-house under the guidance of Dr. Sandra Newbury, Shelter Medicine specialist, UC Davis. We have contacted local veterinarians and will be contacting clients who have adopted in the last month. Until our risk assessments are completed (by end of business today) we are not allowing access to our dog kennel area. Once those are completed we will be creating a management plan. We will not be able to accept any new dogs or puppies at this time. We are sending out blood samples of all dogs in our facility to confirm the titers we are conducting in-house and should have those results by Tuesday (April 14). We will be adopting the dogs that we deem low risk through our assessments to homes with no dogs and those with adequately vaccinated dogs. Anyone with any questions should contact us immediately. We urge everyone to evaluate the vaccination status of their pets. One vaccination for puppies is not adequate coverage and should include a series of 3-4 vaccination at three-week intervals. Adult dogs need vaccinations yearly to maintain immune status. Contact your veterinarian or the Quincy Humane Society if you have any questions. The Quincy Humane Society conducts weekly low-cost vaccination clinics. www.quincyhumanesociety.org (Source:Connecttristates News)

A Wheeling resident, Margaret Bucher, is battling village hall regarding her five dogs. She appeared before the village board on Monday, asking for a change to an ordinance limiting her pets to four.

According to Wheeling ordinance 7.08.120, "It shall be unlawful for any person to keep or harbor more than four of any type or combination of animals over the age of four months within the village except as may be provided herein." The ordinance goes on to exempt fish, if they are kept in an aquarium. It does not specifically exempt fish in a koi pond. It also allows up to six birds in a home, although it does not specifically exempt birds from the total number of animals.

Trustee Dean Argiris mused about the ordinance when asked if a home with three gerbils, a dog, and a cat would be in violation.

"That's something that probably needs to be looked at," he said. He explained the law passed 18 years ago in 1991. "That why ordinances need to be looked at periodically," he added.

However, Argiris still feels five dogs are too many for Bucher's home.

"It's not like she's in a single-family home," he said of her Coventry Place townhouse. He added that she does not have a fenced in yard and shares a common wall with a neighbor. "Dogs are going to yap," he said.

Bucher has been fighting to keep her five dogs since a complaint to the village brought attention to her situation. Although her dogs are small, a Pomeranian, two Maltese, a shih tzu, and a Maltese/shih tzu mix, the fifth one, acquired in January of 2008, puts her over the limit.

"We feel for her, but the ordinances are the ordinances," Argiris said. "A lot of us are dog owners, we love our pets," he said of the village trustees, but worried what might happen if the rule was changed. "I don't want some guy next to me with eight dogs," he said.

He expects village staff to further investigate the current situation and to re-examine the ordinance. "Let's clarify what we are talking about here," he said. "Let's see what other communities have done as well."

On Monday, the board gave Bucher the option of talking to the village manager regarding getting a variance. Argiris said the village has a process for variances that requires public notification and a public hearing. "It's expensive," he said.

He added that she has not yet been ticketed for having the dogs.

This is not the first dog-hoarding incident for that section of town. On Aug. 18, 2005, the village seized 74 Chihuahuas from a home in the 800 block of Chelsea Drive, about a block from Bucher's home. (Source: By CRAIG ADAMS Journal & Topics Reporter)

Bonding With Their Downward-Facing Humans

IN Chicago, Kristyn Caliendo does forward-bends with a Jack Russell terrier draped around her neck. In Manhattan, Grace Yang strikes a warrior pose while balancing a Shih Tzu on her thigh. And in Seattle, Chantale Stiller-Anderson practices an asana that requires side-stretching across a 52-pound vizsla.

Call it a yogic twist: Downward-facing dog is no longer just for humans. Ludicrous? Possibly. Grist for anyone who thinks that dog-owners have taken yoga too far? Perhaps. But nationwide, classes of doga — yoga with dogs, as it is called — are increasing in number and popularity. Since Ms. Caliendo, a certified yoga instructor in Chicago, began to teach doga less than one year ago, her classes have doubled in size.

Not everyone in the yoga community is comfortable with this.

“Doga runs the risk of trivializing yoga by turning a 2,500-year-old practice into a fad,” said Julie Lawrence, 60, a yoga instructor and studio owner in Portland, Ore. “To live in harmony with all beings, including dogs, is a truly yogic principle. But yoga class may not be the most appropriate way to express this.”

Appropriate or not, this is how it works: 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, like ones taught by Brenda Bryan, 43, a yoga and doga instructor in Seattle who has just written a book on the subject. In general, instructors learn informally by sharing techniques. Guiding these techniques is an agreed-upon, though not officially stated, philosophy: Because dogs are pack animals, they are a natural match for yoga’s emphasis on union and connection with other beings.

Ms. Yang, 39, a financial analyst in Manhattan, has gone to doga classes for more than a year. Though she says that her 10-pound Shih Tzu, Sophie, has helped deepen her stretches by providing extra weight, the main reason she goes is to bond with her dog. “I always leave with a smile,” she said.

Such post-doga smiles run about $15 to $25 a class. Whether this is a bargain or overpriced depends on how — and why — the class is taught. Paula Apro, 40, of Eastford, Conn., owner of an online yoga retail store, tried a class near her home last summer.

“A stuffed animal — but not even a dog-shaped stuffed animal — was used by the instructor,” she said. Owners struggled to get their very real dogs to replicate the stuffed-animal poses, she said, and bags of treats were used to get the dogs to change positions. “It was lunacy,” Ms. Apro recalled. “Peanuts, my retired racer greyhound, didn’t participate at all. Instead, I did downward-facing dog while he ate the most treats he’s ever had in a 60-minute period.”

Ms. Caliendo said such tales are the exception. She offers her class in conjunction with the Royal Treatment Veterinary Spa in Chicago, which specializes in holistic animal care. “In no way is doga for teaching dogs silly tricks,” she said. “The dogs are never manipulated into any type of pose.”

Ms. Caliendo’s classes focus on poses and massage for dogs aimed at improving digestion and heart function, and poses for people that emphasize stress reduction and feeling well.

Ms. Bryan, the author in Seattle, said: “It’s a new field so there can be confusion about what doga is and isn’t.” Her classes are loosely structured and filled with humor. “Who cares if everybody’s facing the same direction and doing exactly the same thing?” she said. “Besides, laughing is spiritual.”

Ms. Bryan said some of her earliest classes were a challenge. “I was brand new to this, and in one class, this dog just wouldn’t stop barking,” she said. “There I was, trying desperately to look tranquil and calm, but inside I was, like, ‘Shut up!’ That was the turning point for me. I mean, this was a dog. Plus, he was having the best time of his life.”

Kari Harendorf, 38, teaches doga in Manhattan. “Jobs are disappearing,” she said. “Mortgage payments are looming. Change is everywhere, but your dog remains steadfast. So, why not spend time together?”

Ms. Harendorf links yoga to reductions in stress hormones, like cortisol, and blood pressure. “People always ask me, ‘Do dogs need yoga?’ ” she said. “I say, ‘No, you need yoga. But your dog needs your attention, and bonding with your pet is good for your health.’ ”

She is saying something many dog owners already know: Were it not for their pets, many people would never take daily walks in the park. By extension, it’s easy to see how taking your dog to doga may be a surefire way to make certain you do yoga yourself. (Source:BETHANY LYTTLE, New York Times)

One of Shanghai's few expat veterinarians, Holder still remembers seeing his first surgical procedure when he was just 14 while undertaking work experience at his local vet clinic in Norfolk, eastern England.

"It was my first day there and they were castrating a mastiff. It was a big dog, it must have weighed at least 45 kilograms," he recalls. "The sterility of the room and the smell (hit me). I stood up against the wall but slowly slid down. The veterinary surgeon said, 'okay, you'd better leave'."

But the young Holder was not to be discouraged and it was shortly after, while accompanying a vet on a trip to an abattoir, that he realized he wanted a career as a vet.

"There was blood, guts and milk and there was me in my wellies (Wellington boots) and I thought it was great because I was helping to find out what was going on," he says.

Holder's current life as an expat in Shanghai continues a pattern that dominated his upbringing. His father was a pilot and was regularly posted abroad.

"Between the ages of seven and 14, I experienced four cultures as vastly different as England, Saudi Arabia, Nigeria and Germany," he says.

Holder attended boarding school in England and says he took every opportunity to work at the veterinary practice in his holidays and spare time. He went on to complete his veterinarian studies at University of Bristol in west England. In 1998, he joined a practice in the small town of Droitwich, south of Birmingham. The mixed-practice saw both domestic pets and agricultural animals, causing the young vet to regularly test his theoretical knowledge and sometimes reach for the textbook.

"It was very James Herriot-like, people would come in with all kinds of things from their pet pig, foxes, swans, hampsters to the standard dog, goat, sheep and dairy cow," Holder says.

While saying he enjoys treating all animals, Holder says he has a natural affinity with dogs because he has owned them all his life. During his time in Droitwich he also gained "a love for the peaceful nature of the dairy cow."

After two years, Holder moved on to a busy London small animal practice where he says he learned to "love and appreciate cats." With his student debts paid off and another two years under his belt in London, Holder started hatching plans to travel abroad. These plans included working with elephants in Sri Lanka for three months. But an ex-girlfriend's suggestion that he give China a try landed him in Shanghai in October 2002 for a three-month stint. The elephants of Sri Lanka never saw Holder again because he settled in Shanghai permanently, marrying his West Australian wife Melanie and having two children - Daisy, 3, and George, 18 months.

In the Paw Veterinary Clinic where he works in Shanghai's Changning District, Holder sees mainly small animals. Unlike his British animal clientele, these include more reptiles, like tortoises. In the more than six years he has been in Shanghai, Holder has seen a dramatic shift in attitudes toward animal welfare.

"It is just the beginning but over the last five to six years things have changed an massive amount, with clients getting more serious about their animals and driving vets to get more serious about doing their job," he says.

Holder says the legislation, social attitudes and the legal precedents for the protection of animals took more than 80 years to become established in developed countries like the United States and Britain, while China is developing its own systems rapidly. While Holder has witnessed positive changes in how Chinese people treat animals, he says expats need to consider carefully if they are in a position to own an animal. He warns that foreigners wanting to own a pet in China should look past the "cute and cuddly factor" and plan for a 15-year commitment to the animal they plan to take on.

He says it is not in the best interests of an animal to be passed on to different owners because people discover that it is very hard and expensive to take an animal back to their home country.

"I tell people unless they have a substantial slush fund to consider very carefully owning an animal because it could cost at much as 10,000 yuan (US$1,463) to take a dog back to your home country," he says. "It will also have to spend a long time in a kennel in quarantine so you have to consider the breed, size and temperament of a dog and whether that is suited to your circumstances."

Holder has become personally involved in improving the plight of animals in Shanghai as the medical director of Second Chance Animal Aid Shanghai. The organization is committed to protecting and improving the health and welfare of animals through education, health-care and advocacy. SCAA also aims to find stable long-term foster homes for animals as an alternative approach to traditional shelters. As well as volunteering at the non-profit organization, Holder is a keen member of the Hairy Crabs rugby team, playing at fullback.

While admitting to not being as fleet-footed as when he arrived in Shanghai, Holder still plays up to two games most Saturdays. Along with anchoring the Hairy Crabs' backline, Holder is also occasionally called on for his professional expertise, particularly his suturing skills.

Wildlife is best and safest left in the wild

Wildlife, by the nature of the name, is wild. When people attempt to treat these undomesticated animals as pets, they are putting themselves and the animals at risk.
Appropriate care for wild animals requires considerable expertise, specialized facilities, and lifelong dedication to the animals.

Most families would find it difficult to provide the nutritional and social needs required by wild species and to safeguard themselves from the dangers of wild animals as they grow larger and stronger.

Wild animals also pose a danger to human health and safety through disease and parasites.

The problem begins with the young. Most baby animals are irresistible.

While humans are drawn to young wildlife, these animals do grow and develop adult instincts and behaviours.

Adult wild animals can become difficult to manage and find themselves passed from owner to owner or surrendered to humane societies, wildlife centres or exotic pet traders.

Those released in the wild may not survive.

The behaviour of adult wild animals has been developed over time. Domestication does not occur simply by being captive or hand-raised.

Unlike dogs and cats, who have been domesticated by selective breeding over thousands of years, wild animals are self-sufficient and fare best without interference.

Instinctive behaviour makes them poor choices for pets.

Beyond the manageability of instinctive wildlife behaviour, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) discourage direct contact with wild animals. Rabies, Herpes B virus and Salmonella are only some of the diseases carried by wild animals that can harm humans caring for them.

Perhaps more significant than the harm that “owners” place themselves when owning a wild animal, is the harm that has been done to a wild or exotic animal in an attempt to make it fit the role of a companion animal.

Many are not humanely treated from the point of capture.

The Humane Society of the United States identified that every year millions of birds and reptiles suffer and die on the journey to the pet store.

Even after purchase the quality of life for these animals can be filled with misery — cramped cages, carriers and aquariums — and they most commonly become sick or die because owners cannot care for them properly.

The global wild pet trade continues to threaten the existence of some species in their native habitats and compromises humane care for wild creatures.

In most cases, for humans, animals and the environment it is best to keep wild animals where they belong — in the wild. (Source: Pets Corner, oakvillebeaver)

Pets on planes pose problem for allergy sufferers

An airline policy that allows a few animals to travel with passengers in the main cabin area of planes is raising concerns among people with sensitivities to pet dander.

A WestJet flight recently sent a Regina passenger scrambling for medical attention, when she had a severe allergic reaction to a dog on board.

That experience prompted WestJet to remind travelers with sensitivities to identify themselves as having a special need when booking their tickets.

"What we would do is try to put as much distance as possible between the two," Robert Palmer, a spokesman for WestJet told CBC News on Friday.

He said the airline allows up to four small pets in the passenger cabin, so long as the animals are in crates that fit under the seat. (Source: CBC News)

AP – Iris Bergeron, an employee of Purr-Fect Pets in Milford, Conn. holds a bunny that has two noses,

Raw food for pets?

Tater loves the raw, grass-fed, sustainably raised meat and organic produce that his owner, Marina Chang, feeds him. (Marina Chang)

Despite warnings by veterinarians, growing numbers of dog and cat owners are serving uncooked, homemade fare

To most people, pet food is something that comes in a bag or can. The package might be illustrated with pictures of meat chunks, vegetables and grains, but what's inside is probably the most thoroughly processed food product on the market.

Still, quite a few dog and cat owners are deciding that packaged food isn't the only way to feed their pets. Over the last two decades, they've become a vocal movement advocating food for pets made with whole, fresh, minimally processed and usually raw ingredients.

If calling it a "movement" seems like hyperbole, consider that nearly a thousand pet owners in San Francisco and the North Bay alone belong to SF Raw, a raw feeders' buying group. Similar organizations have sprung up across the country.

Since the early '80s, dozens of books have been published on raw pet diets. There are raw feeding dog and cat breeders, animal rescue groups and shelters. There are also uncountable e-mail lists, websites and message boards where raw feeding is discussed. Veterinarians have reported a huge increase in the number of clients expressing interest in raw and homemade diets, particularly after the 2007 pet food recall.

Most of those people, when they did mention raw diets to their veterinarians, got a lecture about the dangers of homemade diets and raw foods in particular. A lot of vets think it's impossible to make a homemade meal for a dog or cat without a PhD in nutrition and a food laboratory in the garage. And a raw diet? Given the amount of bacteria in raw meat, they say, that's a recipe for sickness and death for your pets.

So why do so many pet owners insist on feeding raw diets to their pets? And why is the modern raw pet food movement not just alive, but growing?

If the terms "slow food" and "locavore" come to mind, you're on the right track. Modern raw feeders aren't crazy, back-to-nature hippies or indulgent pet parents trying to spoil their fur babies with grass-fed steak tartare. They're part of a much larger movement interested in doing right by farm animals, the planet and their local economies.

Commercial diets and the myth of "people food"

The roots of today's raw feeding movement go back to the early '80s, although feeding raw foods to dogs and cats is as old as domestication itself.

Commercial pet food in the United States was introduced in 1890, but it took several decades for the idea that "science and industry know best" to completely take hold. When I was growing up in the 1960s, my family and my friends' families fed their pets a combination of commercial foods, scraps from the butcher and the leftovers from our own meals.

By the end of the '70s, however, the multibillion dollar pet food industry had created a generation of pet owners and veterinarians who were absolutely convinced that dogs and cats couldn't survive without the scientifically formulated products known as "dog food" and "cat food." What we ate was "people food," and our pets couldn't eat it without developing any number of diseases caused by nutritional deficiency or excess.

Then, in 1983, a veterinarian named Dr. Richard Pitcairn wrote "Dr. Pitcairn's Complete Guide to Natural Health for Dogs and Cats," in which he challenged that pervasive belief, suggesting that a lifetime of processed food wasn't any healthier for our pets than it was for us.

I read Dr. Pitcairn's book in 1986 and, being a health food kind of person, thought I'd try his approach, and I convinced my mother to make the switch for her dog, too. Our animals thrived on their new diets, but for years we were the only people we knew who were feeding that way.

A few years later, the Internet put pet owners around the world in easy contact with each other, and I discovered lots of people were feeding raw to their pets. That nascent online community discovered and spread what turned out to be the next big thing in raw pet diets, a feeding plan known as the "BARF" diet.

Does your pet BARF?

Australian veterinarian Ian Billinghurst didn't name his raw diet after puppy puke. The name "BARF," which stands for "bones and raw foods," was coined on the Wellpet e-mail list, where Billinghurst's book, "Give Your Dog a Bone," was being avidly discussed.

Billinghurst wanted dog owners to reproduce the elements of a prey animal when they fed their pets. He recommended a diet of muscle meat, organs and bones along with pulverized raw vegetables, probiotics, cultured foods like yogurt and a few supplements.

While the specifics of the Billinghurst diet were a bit fanciful, it tapped into something that made a lot of sense to most pet owners. They began asking questions like, "What did wolves eat before domestication and selective breeding created the dog?" and "What was the diet of the wild cat like?"

Their answers, like Billinghurst's, often had more fantasy than science behind them, but the approach made enough of an impact that the pet food industry and veterinary profession took notice -- and it wasn't positive notice.

"You're going to kill your pets."

Opposition to raw diets was loud and powerful. Dogs and cats, critics insisted, had such specific and complicated nutritional needs that no one in a home kitchen could possibly get their diets right.

That argument convinced some people to stay away from homemade and raw diets, but it flunked the logic test for most raw feeders. If dogs and cats couldn't survive without commercial pet food, why did we have dogs and cats at all? After all, the 20th century was almost upon us when commercial foods were invented.

Besides, we could see with our own eyes that our raw-fed animals were not just doing fine, but doing better than they had on commercial foods. Certainly it was possible to screw up a home-prepared pet diet, but getting it right definitely wasn't beyond our ability.

Another objection was much harder to dismiss. Raw meat, eggs and dairy products, raw diet opponents said, were full of bacteria that could sicken our pets and even be passed to us. The only safe way to consume these foods was to cook them.

Some raw feeders were skeptical. Dogs and cats evolved while eating raw critters, guts and all, and dogs ate rotten, decomposing prey as well.

Unfortunately, it's not that simple. From E. coli in hamburger to salmonella in produce, juice and peanuts, there's fecal bacteria getting into our dinner at nearly every stage of the agricultural food chain. Cooking has become the only way for most individual consumers to eradicate harmful bacteria in their food, and warnings against eating raw or "undercooked" meats, eggs and dairy products are everywhere.

While it's true that healthy dogs and cats are more resistant to food-borne pathogens than humans, it's not true that they can eat them with impunity. Furthermore, the industrialization of food production has resulted in different bacteria, in greater numbers, than anything dogs and cats evolved to handle.

Ironically, the most effective objection to raw feeding -- food safety -- has ended up being its strongest justification. That's because the very reason most people feed their pets raw and homemade food is that we've come to believe that processed foods aren't safe enough.

When our veterinarians lecture us about the dangers of raw meat, they may be trying to scare us back into the arms of the commercial pet food industry. Instead they often end up pushing us farther into the movement towards locally grown, in-season, sustainably produced fresh foods -- foods that we perceive are cleaner, more humane and better for our animals and the planet.

The big change

Once, my mom and I were the only people I knew who fed raw. Today, almost everyone we know has at least considered it.

Raw frozen diets are available in pet supply stores and even vet's offices now, most formulated in accordance with guidelines by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO), a private organization that establishes standards for animal food and whose approval has become the imprimatur of pet food nutritional adequacy.

Veterinary opinion is still overwhelmingly negative, but even that's starting to change. While there were always a handful of holistic veterinarians who advocated raw diets for pets, today their more conventional colleagues are taking a second look at the practice. SF Raw maintains a list of raw-friendly veterinarians on its website, several of whom feed raw diets to their own pets.

Kasie Maxwell, who founded SF Raw in 2003 and has been feeding raw diets to her pets since 1989, agrees that raw feeding is part of a bigger movement -- one that's not really about pets at all. She called it a "Michael Pollan-esque thing."

"Most of our members buy from us because it's an affordable way to support sustainable agriculture," she said. "But it's more than that. We buy eggs from a woman's backyard chickens and milk from someone else's pet goats. Instead of supporting mega-corporations and companies in China, we're supporting the local economy. We're supporting our neighbors."(Source:Christie Keith, Special to SF Gate)

DA: 3 charged in illegal turtle sales

It may not have been a shell game, but investigators have cracked a case of illegal black market turtle sales and charged three Nassau men in connection with the undercover operation, prosecutors said Tuesday.

Nassau County District Attorney Kathleen Rice and state environmental authorities announced the arrests, dubbed "Operation Shellshock," in a news conference in Mineola as several turtles scrambled nearby in open plastic bins.

Edward Otero, 45, of Syosset, Harry W. Faustmann, 65, of North Bellmore, and Jeffrey E. Bollbach, 54, of Freeport, were each charged with illegal commercialization of fish, shellfish, crustaceans and wildlife.

Rice said that last April 2, Otero sold undercover investigators 10 breeding spotted turtles in a Uniondale parking lot for $2,600. The sale and purchase of the protected spotted turtle is prohibited and is a Class E felony, punishable by up to 4 years in prison and a maximum fine of $5,000.

Otero faces a felony charge because the alleged sale exceeded $1,500. The two other defendants face misdemeanors punishable by up to a year in jail.

Otero purchased the legal captive-bred reptile in Florida, his lawyer said. "Mr. Otero is a well-regarded fish and turtle enthusiast," said his Garden City-based attorney, Brian Griffin. "[He] has never harmed an animal and, more importantly, he has never taken an animal from its natural environment.

Faustmann's attorney, Joel Weiss, of Uniondale, said the investigation was "aimed at people who were selling and profiting from protected wildlife and he does not fit that description."

Lt. Richard Thomas, an officer with the state Department of Environmental Conservation, said that two other arrests were also made in Suffolk. According to the Suffolk County District Attorney's office, Adam Borisuk, 33, of Wading River, and Michael Brooks, 31, of Holbrook, were charged with grand larceny and illegal commercialization of fish, shellfish, crustaceans and wildlife for allegedly stealing snapping turtle eggs from state land in Suffolk County, hatching the eggs and selling the turtles.

Both men have pleaded not guilty. "They are throwing everybody under this big umbrella of wrongdoing without any evidence," said Steven Politi, Brooks' attorney. "We do look forward to our day in court and clearing Adam's name," said Borisuk's lawyer Brian DeSesa.

The two-year statewide investigation also led to 14 arrests in four other New York counties, Pennsylvania, Maryland, Louisiana, and Ontario, Canada. Thomas said the turtles recovered in Nassau were treated well.

Rice said that in May 2008 investigators met with Faustmann at an upstate wildlife convention and traded two spotted turtles for two of Faustmann's eastern box turtles. Faustmann also gave the investigator a $300 check from Bollbach for the purchase of two adult North American wood turtles, prosecutors said. (Source:BY JOIE TYRRELL, newsday.com)

Coyotes are in our Massachusetts midst

WIKIMEDIA COMMONS (SOME RIGHTS RESERVED) The origin of the Eastern coyote started about a century ago when humans killed nearly every wolf living in New England.

The howling of coyotes at night can send a chill up one’s spine, yet it can also be hauntingly beautiful. It is amazing that these wild creatures live among us in every mainland town on in Massachusetts but are very rarely seen.

Many people fear coyotes, but their maligned reputation is undeserved. They serve the essential predator role to keep our local ecosystem healthy. Marc Bekoff, a professor emeritus of ecology and evolutionary biology at the University of Colorado, describes coyotes as “remarkably intelligent, playful, mischievous, cunning and social ...”

If you ever saw a coyote gracefully loping across a field or stalking prey, you would know immediately that it was not its relative, the domestic dog. A coyote pack usually consists of a mating pair and two or three offspring, who help to raise the next litter of pups. The pack covers a territory of five to 10 square miles.
Sometimes people think that coyotes are more numerous than they really area, because they hear the same coyotes on different ends of their territory. According to Massachusetts Wildlife Biologist Jonathan G. Way, in the winter four howling coyotes can sound like 10 because they change the octaves and decibels of their howling.

He notes that this may have evolved to make them sound more numerous to other coyotes, not to freak out their human neighbors! Coyotes are very territorial. They keep other coyotes out of their area, which discourages breeding by other transient coyotes. They self regulate and naturally keep their density low.
Way has followed 50 coyotes in the wild and raised a litter of pups to observe their habits and to conduct research. He has found far too many coyotes are shot and poisoned unnecessarily. He has seen firsthand how coyotes mourn when they are separated from their families.

Sometimes the small animals they eat can include a domestic cat, small dog or small livestock. As a safeguard, dogs should be kept on a leash or in an area with a five-foot fence and brought inside at night. Cats should always be kept inside, to protect the cat and improve the songbird population. Farmers can use fences, a guard llama or guard dogs. As Cheri VanderSluis of the Maple Farm Sanctuary in Mendon explained, “Since Jim (her husband) and I have had our Maremma Livestock Guard Dogs to protect our smaller farm animals, we have not had one loss to coyote predation in 15 years. We can now appreciate the coyote’s beauty and grace.”

A healthy coyote can be out during the day. If you see one, welcome the rare view. If the coyote is too close for comfort, make a lot of noise and wave your arms and they should quickly run away. Coyotes are wild animals and should never be fed. Pets’ food should not be left outside and garbage can lids should always be tightly shut. Feeding coyotes will make them dependent on this food. They may lose their ability to survive in the wild. It could make them become bold around humans, expecting more food. If a coyote is very slow moving and acting sickly or abnormally, you should call your local animal control officer.

With all the environmental problems in the world, there can be a comfort knowing that there is wildness right outside our doors. Coyotes have an important role to play in the ecosystem keeping the balance in nature. More research and less indiscriminate killing needs to be done on these remarkable creatures.
For more information visit www.easterncoyoteresearch.com/index.html and read Suburban Howls, by Jonathan Way. (Source: By Ann Mazar)

Gus, the World's Ugliest Dog, has died

Gus, a pedigree Chinese Crested from St. Petersburg, Fla, competes in the 2008 World's Ugliest Dog Contest held at the Sonoma-Marin Fair in Petaluma, Calif. Friday June 20, 2008. Gus won top pedigree and beat out the past "Ring of Champions" to take home the grand prize. (Press Democrat photo by Crista Jeremiason / June 20, 2008)

Gus, a Chinese crested who had one eye and three legs, won the title of World's Ugliest Dog this summer.

According to the St. Petersburg Times in Florida, Gus had cancer. He was 9.

Gus was rescued from a bad home and went on to win the annual World's Ugliest Dog contest at the Sonoma-Marin Fair in northern California.

Gus came from humble origins. According to the fair, his adopted family in Gulfport, Fla., rescued him after learning he was being kept in a crate inside someone's garage.

He had one leg amputated because of a skin tumor and lost an eye in a cat fight.

Gus' owner had said the prize money from the contest would be put toward the dog's radiation treatment. (Source:Tribune wire report)

Tips for Recovering Missing Birds
Help Capturing a Lost Parrot

Tips for Recovering Missing Birds by Jean Pattison (The African Queen)

If you belong to a bird club, please ask your newsletter editor to publish this. If your club holds a bird fair, please distribute it. If you know of someone who has lost a bird, please send it along. If you have a personal web page, please put this up. If you are a breeder, please include this in your educational packet. Please forward this to other lists. If you know of lost/found web pages, please ask them to put this up.Additional suggestions from Scott Lewis are included.

Birds can live for days-weeks months, and even years after an escape. Never give up. Always look for a grey BEFORE sun-up while it is still dark, and AFTER sundown. They are the most vocal then, and the most active. Look for the bird constantly. Start where you think the bird landed and circle that area. Add a mile and 1/2 for every 12 hours the bird has been out loose. Since there are many variables, anything can send the bird off in a new direction, or he may even just stay put and hidden close to where you lost sight of him.Day 3 is when they get hungry and try to come in for food, they will go to just about any one at that time if they are tame. This depends on how hungry the bird was when it became lost, and the weather, temperature, etc.

The best thing to do is to forget the bird was a pet and start tracking him like a wild, loose, untrained bird in the neighborhood. Yes, food will being a bird down to the ground, but that could take a while for a well fed bird in the heat of the summer. Now that the instincts are in gear, any trained behaviors that were there before the escape may be unreliable.ALWAYS have a recording of your grey when he is playing and having the most fun. Play this recording intermittently as you look for him. Throw food on rooftops. Place a small cage on the roof of your house, or anyone's where they grey has been seen. The only time to put food out is if you want to establish a feeding place on which you will place a trap on the third day. Otherwise, all that putting free food out will do is prolong the time that your bird can make it out in the wild without anyone's help. Tell people to put him in a pillow case, and have friends carrying pillowcases while looking, or small cages. Sometimes greys are caught by inexperienced holders and they don't know what to do with them.Kennels usually work just fine, and won't add further trauma to an already scared bird. Water hoses do work if you can spray him shortly after his escape. Hit him with as much water as you can all at once. He is heavy from not having exercise, and the water throws him off enough to ground him for a bit. Do not drench just before dark unless you are sure you can get him. If possible contact organizations 50 miles away. Sometimes people find them while traveling and go home with them. Greys can also get that far just flying. Give all the children in the neighborhood a buck and tell them there is more if they can locate your bird. Kids tell on people that are hiding them also. (per Mattie Sue Athan) Police will not help you retrieve a bird from someone else's home. You have to plan that one very carefully if they decide they want to keep your bird.

Have someone watch the bird at all times if he is spotted and you need to go for help.Carry your cell phone with you at all times, and a flashlight and food treats. You stay with the bird and talk to him, let others go for the ladders and help. If you try to climb the tree, it often times scares them up. A long branch may be better to coax him onto. Use your head here. Raise his cage to where he is. Just get close to him and talk to him. Offer treats without reaching for him. Just befriend him until he remembers you and walks closer to you, then pick him up. If he is roosted near dark, wait until dark before trying to retrieve him. They don't fly well at night, and they don't want to fly, but make sure you don't miss. You may use a high powered flashlight to momentarily blind the bird while another person nets or grabs the bird. Scared birds WILL fly at night, even though they have no idea where they are going to. If you feel that approaching after dark is better, shine a flashlight into their face so they don't see your net coming down over them. Use a large fishing net with soft open netting.If sighted, keep the mobs of people away, and let the owner try and coax him down. Have your helping friends in tall trees or on roof tops to watch where he goes if he takes off. You NEED spotters prepared and willing.

Additional Information/ Comments by Scott LewisI might add to all this that if the bird is hanging around but refuses to go in a cage or allow itself to be caught, a Have-A-Heart chipmunk trap may do the trick. This is a small live trap. We recaptured a hawk headed parrot with one. With this sized bird, which is roughly the same size as a Timneh African Grey, anything larger will not work because the bird can go in and out with impunity. We know this from experience. After watching in total frustration as the hawk head repeatedly walked in and out of a Have-A-Heart squirrel trap to eat, we got a chipmunk trap. She went in, she was back. An actual R/C parrot trap is best, but not many people have one.Place the trap high in the area the bird is frequenting. Remember that height equals safety to parrots and most other birds. Be sure to check it frequently. NEVER leave a trap unattended. A caught bird can easily attract a raptor, and besides, in most parts of the US, unattended traps are against the law. If the bird is caught, it may panic. And, there is a good chance you will catch native birds, which won't appreciate it a damned bit. I have released a few extremely irate grackles and such.For little birds, such as lovebirds and budgies, a sparrow trap works well. We had a black-masked lovebird show up at the aviary. I suppose it was attracted by our birds' calls. Given that lovebirds can carry PBFD, to which all our birds are very susceptible, two vets told me to get a pellet gun. I didn't have the heart to do it. But, I caught him in a sparrow trap within a half hour after I set it.Finally, a hose does work, but don't be shy. The idea is to totally soak the bird in a big hurry to the extent that it can't fly. If you're shy with the hose, you will simply watch a damp bird fly away. (Source:Jean Pattison, The African Queen)

80 Appaloosas Need Homes

Below is a letter written by the Appaloosa Horse Club in an effort to help a member who has 80 horses to place.

Dear ApHC members,

The ApHC was contacted by the National Humane Society (Leanne McCollum 615-734-9537, leannemccollum@hsus.org This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it ) regarding a family in Tennessee that has fallen on some hard times and needs assistance placing their 80 Appaloosas.

As I understand it, the TN Humane Society has been working with the family to find homes and to provide food. The National Humane Society has arranged for a 1-ton hay drop this week, but ultimately the family needs to place the horses.

I realize that we are all under financial strain these days, but I am calling on you to contact the representative I mentioned above to see if you can offer any assistance for transportation, feed, farrier services, a temporary home, a donation or adoption.

If you know of anyone who might be able to offer assistance, please provide them the contact information listed above.

Thank you for your support of this wonderful breed and for creating a great family and community organization!

Best Regards,

Merida McClanahan
Director of Marketing
Appaloosa Horse Club
2720 W. Pullman Road
Moscow, Idaho 83843
Phone: (208) 882-5578 ext. 235
Fax: (208) 882-8150
(Source:QHN)

Tips for Feeding Cats on a Budget

Feed cats the right amount according to their weight, and avoid feeding large amounts at once, advises Banfield, The Pet Hospital.

Pet Nutrition Month in March highlights importance of healthy food, spending wisely.

Feed cats the right amount according to their weight, and avoid feeding large amounts at once, advises Banfield, The Pet Hospital.
As many pet owners struggle to find ways to save on pet care, there’s one area that should not be neglected: pet food. That’s why Banfield, The Pet Hospital, unveiled its tips for ways to help pet owners keep cats and dogs healthy during difficult economic times.

While it may be tempting to switch to lower-cost pet food, Banfield said it’s important for pet owners to be aware of the long-term cost-efficiency of feeding their pets a higher-quality diet.

“Nutrition is the foundation of good health, and a quality diet can actually decrease your pet’s chance of developing costly health problems in the future,” said Karen Johnson, DVM.

High-quality food tends to include less filler. As a result, more nutrients are directly absorbed and used by the pet’s body.

In addition, feeding pets a high-quality diet decreases the amount they need to be fed, according to Banfield. The hospital urges pet owners to consider the following tips:

Give pets food that’s made by companies known for ongoing nutritional research. Make sure pet food stays fresh by minimizing the time that food is stored.

Feed pets the right amount according to their weight, and avoid feeding pets as much as they want, or feeding large amounts at once.
Maintain a consistent daily feeding schedule to help pets keep normal elimination habits, as well as avoid indoor accidents.

Examine the first three ingredients on pet food labels. The most nutritionally rich pet foods contain whole ingredients in the top ingredients, instead of “meals” or ground skeletal meats, organs or connective tissue. By-product “meals” do have nutritional benefits, but are more beneficial to pets when not among the primary ingredients.

Avoid feeding “people” food to animals. A pet’s digestive system is simpler than a person’s and can be upset by table scraps. (Source: Cat Channel)

Joseph Bauer of the Cleveland Clinic has developed a drug called nitrosylcobalamin that has successfully battled cancer in four canines with no negative side effects. Bauer says the drug might lead to a new cancer treatment for humans.

"The beauty of using a dog or a cat to test a cancer drug is two-fold. First, the animal can get the benefit of the most up-to-date drug in cancer medicine," said Bauer. "Second … if you can find an agent to treat cancer that occurs in a dog with success, there is a higher likelihood you can take that to the human population and have a much higher response rate than with mice."

The drug targets cancer cells with "biological Trojan horse technology." Bauer said cells have receptors for vitamin B12 on their outer surface. In order to divide at their abnormally rapid pace, cancer cells grow extra B12 receptors -- 100 times more than normal cells. Bauer and his colleagues attach nitric oxide molecules to vitamin B12. The nitric oxide kills cancer cells. The B12 acts as the "Trojan horse," easily slipping into cancer cells. The subsequent release of nitric oxide kills the cancer cells from within.

The team's goal is to move the drug into human trials as soon as possible. The research was presented this week in Salt Lake City during a national meeting of the American Chemical Society. (Source: United Press International)

Tonda the Orangutan Dies, Pet Cat Lives On

Tonda and her pet cat, Tonda's Kitty, or T.K., pictured above in a December shot. (ZT Pet News Photo by Joe Bonner)

PANAMA CITY BEACH, Fla. -- Tonda, a 50-year-old orangutan whose unlikely friendship with a cat generated international attention, has died.

Tonda, whose full name is Tondaleyo, passed in her sleep sometime early Friday morning, according to ZooWorld, in Panama City, Fla. Having celebrated her 50th birthday in February, Tonda was the oldest U.S. registered orangutan in captivity.

"She was an older lady, and we have been keeping a close eye on her," Stephanie Willard, director of education at ZooWorld, told Northwest Florida Daily Times.

Tonda's 3-year-old cat, Tonda's Kitty, also known as TK, was removed from her enclosure when zookeepers realized his surrogate mother had passed, zoo employee Jack Searles told Zootoo Pet News. TK stayed in the gift shop over the weekend, but has now gone home with Willard. He is reportedly going to continue to live at the zoo.

Searles, who works in the gift shop, said the orange tabby's spirits were low over the weekend.

"He hid under the desk for the first day or so, and then later, he was walking around a bit, kind of not wanting to get too close to anybody," Searles said. "You could tell he seemed upset. They put him with Tonda when he wasn't even a year old. He's been with her practically his entire life."

Zookeepers paired Tonda with T.K. more than two years ago, after she became depressed following the death of her mate, Yakut, as Zootoo Pet News previously reported. The story of Koko, a captive sign-language speaking gorilla who cared for several cats, inspired the zoo to consider T.K. as a potential friend for Tonda.

The match proved successful, and instantly improved the orangutan's morale.

"Tonda very quickly got attached to the cat and got real mad at us when we would take him away," Willard previously told Zootoo Pet News. "The cat has added so much to her life."

The two would eat, sleep and play together, while Tonda always kept a maternal eye on her feline friend.

"She needed that companionship and she is the most overbearing mother in the world to the kitty cat," Willard previously said of their relationship.

Though Tonda has suffered from respiratory problems for years, she is thought to have died of old age, Searles said.

The zoo is now planning a memorial service to honor its only orangutan, who has brought in visitors from across the world throughout her 11 year stay at the facility. Even on Friday, Searles said, zoo-goers turned out to specifically see Tonda -- only to find an empty exhibit.

Already, Searles said, people have begun to send monetary donations in Tonda's name and to leave flowers outside her pen.

"It's a big loss for us all," she said. (Source: Zootoo Pet News Staff, Northwest Florida Daily Times and The Associated Press)

No alligator babies for pet owners

Canada~ If you've been thinking about getting a crocodile as a pet, think again.

New rules regulating alien species that pose the most serious threat to public safety will take effect immediately, Environment Minister Barry Penner announced on Monday. The provincial government has identified species that are a sufficient risk to public safety to warrant regulation, including some types of mammals, amphibians and reptiles.

Effective immediately, members of the public cannot breed, release or possess new animals on the list and individuals who are already in possession of a listed exotic animal will be required to apply for a permit and adhere to government requirements for animal care and public safety standards.

Sara Dubois, the B.C. SPCA's manager of wildlife services says the announcement is good news. In a press release she said the changes provide better protection of exotic animals in captivity and greater safety measures for the public. She pointed out that before these regulations came into effect this week there were no safeguards in place to prevent anyone from purchasing a tiger, a venomous snake or a crocodile over the Internet and keeping it in their home or on their property.

"For some reason, people lose sight of the fact that these are wild or captive bred animals who do not lose their natural instincts just because they are living in a basement or in a yard," says Dubois. "They can, and do, cause very serious injury."

Individuals who are in possession of a listed animal that was in B.C. before March 16, 2009 may be able to keep the animal until its death if they comply with a number of requirements and restrictions. They must apply for, and be granted, a permit from the Ministry of Environment between Nov. 1, 2009 and March 31, 2010. They must not breed or release the animals in question.

Accredited zoos, research and educational institutions can continue to acquire, breed and possess the listed species, but they will be required to apply for, and be granted, a permit for each animal in their possession beginning Nov. 1, 2009.

Effective immediately, the film industry will be required to apply for a permit for temporarily bringing any listed animals into B.C. and must remove those same animals from B.C. when their film shoot is completed.

Penalties for violating the new restrictions could result in a maximum fine of $250,000 and/or up to two years of imprisonment, seizure of the animal and removal from the province at the owner's expense, or seizure of the animal and transport to an accredited zoo at the owner's expense. If removal is not possible, the animal may be euthanized.

The full list of controlled alien species and the requirements and restrictions under the new regulation contained in the Wildlife Act are posted on the Ministry of Environment website at www.env.gov.bc.ca/fw/wildlifeactreview/cas. (Source: North Shore News)

Photo in the News: Two-Headed Turtle Found in China

In biology, two heads are rarely better than one. But this unusual golden coin turtle, found in China, appears to be doing just fine. A businessman from the city of Qingdao says he bought the reptile at an animal market last year.

According to press reports released Wednesday, the turtle's two heads cooperate well and can even eat at the same time. Its owner says the reptile eats more than one-headed turtles do and has grown over the past year.

The creature most likely developed its unusual anatomy while still in the egg. Its embryo began to split in two—the process that gives rise to identical twins—but then failed to fully separate.

While uncommon, abnormalities caused by incompletely split embryos occur in many animal species, including fish, snakes, rats, cows—even humans, where the phenomenon leads to what are known as Siamese, or conjoined, twins.

Tails of Marin: It takes work to keep the peace in multi-dog household

A multiple-dog household can be full of joy, but you should be the ultimate leader of the pack. (Provided by Marin Humane Society)

If you already have a dog and wish to get another one, take some precautions before making your choice. Some dogs are naturally quite picky - only liking certain dogs, sometimes even certain breeds or breed types. Other dogs seem to enjoy meeting any other canine, until you try to bring the new dog into their house. And still other dogs really do like pretty much anyone (lucky you if you own that dog).

If you're planning on adding to your canine pack, here are some suggestions.

Guidelines for first dog

Make sure that your resident dog thinks of you as the leader in the household. Control all the things that she feels are important: food, playtime, grooming, doorways and sleeping arrangements. She should be able to handle not getting attention. Dogs that are attention-mongers often don't want to share you with anyone else.
Your dog should already have friends. She doesn't need to like all other dogs, but she should have some dogs with whom she plays or goes on walks. If she's very independent or aloof, or if she fights with other dogs, she might not be a good candidate for a buddy. Make sure you know and understand your dog's body language. Understand when she is beginning to get stressed and cannot handle a new situation.

Choosing a new dog

It's safest to choose the opposite gender, although by no means necessary. Often two dogs of the same gender can get along nicely. However, if you have the choice and really don't care about the gender of your animal, choose the opposite.

Try to pick a dog that doesn't have the same personality as your current dog. For instance, if you have a very pushy dog, your new dog is better off being friendly, but less demanding. If your current dog is shy, you might go for a friendlier, outgoing new dog. Two dogs of the same age and personality types are more likely to want the same amount of attention and to compete for resources. That means they're more likely to fight, and that's what we're trying to avoid.

-If the dogs are so eager to meet each other that they're straining at the ends of the leashes, then drop the leashes while you keep moving - don't set up an "instant" territory that your dog may wish to defend.

-If you believe either of the dogs is showing signs of aggression, take them away from each other and walk them around separately a bit more. Try again a few minutes later. Sometimes it takes two to three meetings before dogs begin to accept or like each other.

-If they don't like each other, accept it. Sometimes, despite our best efforts, it's not a good match.

Happily ever after

You might have no problems from there, but just in case:
- Set up routines in which all dogs must ask you for permission (sit and wait) to do the things they find reinforcing - where they eat, when they get treats, getting into and out of cars and/or parks.

- Give them their food in separate bowls, but make sure they get enough. This is not the time to have your dogs on a diet! If they both finish at the same time, you can let them investigate the other's bowl.

- Give them treats at the same time, one from each hand. Have both of them sit and work for their treats.

- If there's a tiff, tell both dogs they're bad, rather than punishing the one you think started the argument. So you might say, "NO! Bad dogs!" and stalk away. If they begin to fight in earnest, you'll need to separate them; but again, don't act like you blame either one.

- Hold mini-training sessions daily with each dog. This is their time for special attention from you (the Ultimate Leader).

- Finally, exercise, exercise, exercise. Long walks will cement your relationship with them, and theirs with each other.

TRAINING

- What: Multi-dog Households Workshop with Trish King, Marin Humane Society director of behavior and training. Topics covered include choosing your second (or third) dog, managing multiple dogs, training several dogs at once and problem solving.

- Where: Marin Humane Society, 171 Bel Marin Keys Blvd., Novato CA

- When: 1 to 5 p.m. April 5

- Cost: $35. Pre-registration required.

- Information: 506-6280

Trish King is the director of behavior and training for the Marin Humane Society, which contributes Tails of Marin articles. Write to Tails of Marin, 171 Bel Marin Keys Blvd. Novato, CA 94949. For more information, call 883-4621 or visit MarinHumaneSociety.org. (SourceL Trish King, Marin Independent Journal)

Black snake bites Logan man who tried Steve Irwin-type rescue

IT was a passion for reptiles that enticed 34-year-old Malcolm Biggs into the venomous grip of a red-bellied black snake. The attack happened in a suburban Logan street on Tuesday night when Mr Biggs tried to rescue the snake after seeing it run over by a car on Fryars Rd near Eagleby State School.

He was bitten three times on his hand and suffered a violent reaction to the venom. Red-bellied black snakes are common in wooded urban areas on Australia's eastern coast. Their bite can be lethal and can cause serious poisoning.

The father of one said he and his five-year-old son adored reptiles.

"I couldn't stand to see a snake hurt and that's why I thought I'd try to get him off the road," Mr Biggs said.

"But when I tried to help him he went for me.

"I know why now but I just wanted to help."

Mr Biggs said being a fan of the late Steve Irwin had perhaps given him an over-inflated sense of confidence.

"I thought I could do it because of Steve Irwin," he said.

Mr Biggs became dizzy within seconds after the venomous bites and began vomiting. "I was fainting and I couldn't move," he said. His mate called an ambulance and he was rushed to hospital where he was given an antivenene. He was released from hospital yesterday.

"I told my son straight away to stay away from snakes," Mr Biggs said.

"I still love them but I'll be more wary."

Wildlife expert Rick Nattrass said there was no point in people without expertise trying to help injured snakes. "Snakes will bite and no matter how kindhearted a person is they will still lash out," Mr Nattrass said.

"The snake may very well die from its injury and there is no point in having the rescuer dead as well." (Source: By Anna Caldwell, The Courier-Mail)

Dangerous pets banned in B.C.

B.C. Environment Minister Barry Penner, who was announcing measures to control exotic animals, came face to face yesterday with one of the restricted species at Vancouver Aquarium, a boa constrictor named Tisco.

Photograph by: Bill Keay, Canwest News Service, Canwest News Service; Times Colonist

Suzy the tiger could be allowed to stay in Highlands under date clause
The provincial government has imposed an immediate ban on the importing of dangerous exotic pets into B.C., with violators facing fines of up to $250,000 or two years in prison.

The prohibition covers 1,246 species, from the cassowary, a large bird capable of of eviscerating humans, to boa constrictors, tigers and a range of poisonous snakes and reptiles, Environment Minister Barry Penner said yesterday.

"Anything that bites, poisons or is capable of maiming is likely on the list," said Penner, adding that the government was acting to protect public safety. "An apartment in Vancouver is no place for a 50-kilogram snake, and no one should have a 150-kilo Siberian tiger in their backyard."

The growing number of people keeping dangerous exotic pets also puts members of the SPCA in danger when they are called on to deal with the animals when their owners are unable to look after them, he said.

However, the legislation doesn't apply to Suzy, a two-year-old tiger that has lived at a home in the Highlands since September 2008, because exotic animals that arrived in B.C. prior to March 16, 2009, are exempt. People who had such animals before Monday may be allowed to keep them provided they meet the ministry's requirements and restrictions on possession, and receive a permit.

"It also says all the ones currently living should be allowed to die in your possession but don't bring any new ones in," said a relieved Dave Bennett, Suzy's owner.

Suzy, who lives in a chain link enclosure in Bennett's yard, has been the source of much controversy.

Highlands councillors hurriedly passed a bylaw banning a wide variety of exotic animals prior to her arrival, and then the municipality took Bennett to court.

In January, Bennett and the Highlands agreed the animal would leave by June 16. Highlands officials declined to comment until they have a chance to review the new rules.

A full list of controlled alien species covered by the new legislation is available at the ministry's website: www.env.gov.bc.ca/fw/wildlifeactreview/cas/ (Source:Canwest News Service; Times ColonistMarch )

Dog Chewing - Stop Dogs and Puppies from Chewing

Destructive Chewing, Control Chewing - 5 Simple Steps, Questions and Answers

Understand that it’s natural for dogs and puppies to chew. If you have a destructive dog or puppy chewing problem at your home, note the following comments:

1) What are the causes for dogs and puppies chewing?

Puppies at their early age, chew in part to relieve the pain of teething. Give them a teething ring. You must watch them constantly or keep them for short periods of time, in either a training crate or safe room. Be sure that you don’t leave things lying out or in reach of puppies. Puppies will get into a waster basket. Absolutely do not place razors in the waste basket or anything else that would be harmful. Dogs and puppies generally chew out of loneliness, boredom, frustration, and anxiety.

2) How do you control dogs and puppies from destructive chewing?

Dogs and puppies need attention. Don’t just lock them away all day and then come home, give them a bowl of cheap dog food, and then ignore them. You must address any problems that they may have associated with loneliness, boredom, frustration, and anxiety. Dogs and puppies need your positive attention. They need playtime, walks and to be socialized with other dogs and people. Most of all, dogs and puppies need your love and affection every day. Not just one day a week.

Destructive chewing by dogs and puppies is a reaction to your lack of taking proper care of them. As far as teething puppies, keep things picked up off the floor, keep an eye on them or confine them in an isolated area when you can’t watch them. Understand that dogs and puppies are going to chew, so provide them with a rawhide bone or chew toys, so when they have the urge, they have something to chew on other than your furniture and personal items.

Yes, there are many items in the pet store you can purchase for them to chew on, however, dog and puppies are like humans, they have different taste so you have see what your dog or puppy may enjoy. Never ever give them an old pair of shoes to chew on, unless you want your good shoes chewed on in the future.

3) Can dog chewing be an indication of any health problems?

Yes! Your dog or puppy my have a dental problem. Dogs and puppies will chew anything to relieve pain. If you have taken the corrective measures as noted above and still have problems, you should take your dog or puppy to see a veterinarian.

4) What is the best way to redirect dogs and puppies from destructive chewing?

Without a question, exercise, which relieves the stress from loneliness, boredom, frustration, and anxiety. Play with them, take them for long walks, teach them to retrieve a ball.

5) Do I punish dogs or puppies for destructive chewing?

Dalek mimic parrot returns home

A parrot called Leonard who can imitate Doctor Who baddies the Daleks has been returned to his owners after going missing for four days.

Maya Brandt and Ian Chaney said they were "frantic" after the African grey flew out of a window of their workshop in Easton, Bristol.

Leonard joins in with the pips before the news on BBC Radio 4 and knows the song YMCA by Village People. He was found in the Brislington area of the city earlier.

Ms Brandt, 50, said: "It's fantastic to have him back - he's such a laugh.

"My nephews Magnus, nine, and Izaac, 13, taught him to say 'exterminate' like a Dalek and he also says 'alright my lover' and 'alright ma'. "You do have to watch what you say in front of him but his comic timing is brilliant." 'So funny'

As well as learning popular songs, Leonard has also managed to pick up the introduction to Beethoven's fifth symphony and the Ode to Joy from his ninth.

Ms Brandt, who has just undergone chemotherapy for breast cancer, said the bird was "great fun". She said: "Laughter is such good therapy and he's so funny."

The couple were given the bird four years ago by friends. Leonard is allowed to fly freely around in the couple's home and at their antique restoration workshop.

Mr Chaney, 43, said: "We were moving furniture and he just flew out of the window and was gone. There was nothing I could do.

"We made the appeal and I got a phone call to say he'd been found in Brislington. He's been rabbiting on ever since."
(Source: news.bbc.co.uk)

Rabies Vaccination Day is April 4

Belmont, Mass. - The Health Department is holding a rabies clinic on Saturday, April 4, as part of the annual statewide rabies vaccination project. The clinic will be held at the Town Hall, on the corner of Concord Avenue and Pleasant St. Cats will be done first, from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m., residents with both dogs and cats should come from 2:30 to 3 pm and dogs will be done from 3 to 4 p.m. Cats should be brought in a carrier and dogs should be securely leashed. The cost of the rabies shot is $10.

This is a change in location from recent years due to the closure of the Senior Center on Oakley Rd. There is adequate parking in the municipal lot surrounding the Homer Building adjacent to the Town Hall. There will be a clearly marked entrance and exit for this clinic.

Microchips for identification will also be available this year. There is an additional cost for the microchip which will be $45 which includes the registration. The procedure takes very little time and the presence of a microchip is extremely helpful to animal control officers everywhere to return lost pets.

The Town Clerk’s office will be open during the clinic to license pets, both those who participate in the clinic and others who might find it convenient. Technically, March 15th is the due date for licensing but enforcement is usually held off until the rabies clinic so residents can insure that their animals have a current rabies vaccination. Those licensing for the first time must bring a statement that the animal has been spayed or neutered or a note from the vet indicating the reason that the animal is not spayed or neutered. An extra $25 breeder's fee is attached to the license fee if the animal is not spayed or neutered. The license fee has increased from $8 to $12 annually and from $5 to $9 for individuals over age 60.

Animal owners should bring all previous vaccination records with them. Belmont will be giving rabies shots that won't expire for three years for both dogs and cats, if owners can prove that the animals have had two rabies shots within nine to twelve months of each other to complete the primary series. Once animals receive a three year vaccine, they can be given a three year booster from then on. All animals arriving at the clinic without proof of prior rabies vaccinations will be issued a rabies certificate that will expire in one year.

The State Laboratory tests hundreds of both wild and domestic animal specimens each year for rabies. Many of them are raccoons and bats, both of which have an opportunity to interact with household pets.

“Even cats that are always kept indoors,” says Health Director, Donna Moultrup, “can be exposed to rabies if a bat carrying the virus gets into the house.”

Rabies is an infectious and contagious disease that can be transmitted to humans. If untreated, rabies is considered 100 percent fatal. In order to protect the public, unvaccinated dogs and cats that have been exposed to rabies must either be isolated at an animal hospital for three months or be destroyed.

"Having every pet in Town vaccinated for rabies is one of the highest priorities for the Health Department," says Moultrup. "Residents wouldn't think of not vaccinating their children, but often forget that the unvaccinated pet can bring disease home to the family."

Rabies is now a permanent fixture in the wildlife population of Massachusetts. Though the virus may not be detected in an area for long periods of time, it is still present. Vaccinating your dog or cat is the best way to prevent the threat of rabies from entering your home. Keeping your pets up-to-date on their rabies shots is not only the law, but is also in the best interest of your animals and your family.

Residents from surrounding towns are welcome to attend this rabies clinic. If you have any questions, call the Belmont Health Dept. at 617-993-2720, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Sofa surprise: Cat found inside $27 used couch
Homecoming for kitty who was accidentally donated along with furniture

A hungry calico cat was found inside a used couch. KHQ's Anthony Gomes reports.

SPOKANE, Washington - The mysterious mewing in Vickie Mendenhall's home started about the time she bought a used couch for $27.

After days of searching for the source of the noise, she found a very hungry calico cat living in her sofa.

The Spokesman-Review reported that her boyfriend, Chris Lund, was watching TV on Tuesday night and felt something move inside the couch. He pulled it away from the wall, lifted it up and found the cat, which apparently had crawled through a small hole on the underside.

Mendenhall contacted the store where she bought the couch, but it had no information on who donated it. So she took the cat to the animal shelter where she works, so it could recover, and contacted media outlets in hopes of finding the owner.

Sure enough, Bob Killion of Spokane showed up to claim the cat on Thursday after an acquaintance alerted him to a TV story about it.

Killion had donated a couch on Feb. 19, and his 9-year-old cat, Callie, disappeared at about the same time. (Source: Associated Press)

Clean Filters
When feeding my tropical fish I unplug the filter for their feeding time (about 15 min.) The filter doesn't pull their food into it. It keeps the filter clean much longe

Flea Control
The best and most effective means of controlling fleas that hitchhike into your home is to vacuum vacuum vacuum. A moth ball or two in your vacuum canister or bag (2.94 a box) will kill them for up to one month. Putting out mothballs will kill fleas in problem areas. Continue to vacuum in case any eggs hatch afterwards. Also you can bring your pet inside for a short visit to rid your home of fleas. Flea eggs hatch off animals and baby fleas live on ordinary house dust. They only need protein (blood) when they start to reproduce. Adult fleas will jump on the pet, and you can treat them afterwards. This takes more work, but it is safer as it does not use a lot of spray chemicals which can be absorbed into bare feet, and the cost is minimal.

Cheap Flea Prevention
Our dog had a lot of fleas and was scratching so much she had hot spots and her fur was falling out. We used expensive flea shampoo but nothing helped. We started using Lever 2000 deodorant soap and the fleas jumped off of her. Her hair has grown back and she rarely scratches any more. (Always consult a vet before administering any home remedies.)

How to Keep Animals Off Furniture
A great way to keep dogs and especially cats off of furniture is to put double stick tape (preferably poster tape) on the areas you want to prevent the animal from scratching or sitting. It does not hurt the animal, is inexpensive and does not harm the furniture if changed monthly. In time they will learn not to scratch or sit on the area even after the tape is gone. To keep cats from digging in your houseplants, put decorative rocks on top of the dirt.

No Office Visit Fee For Rabies Shots
If you have a pet that annually needs a rabies shot check with your local pet supply store (Petsmart in this area) about discount times. Locally a pet can be vaccinated for only the cost of the rabies shot weekdays from 3:00pm - 5:00pm. That's a tremendous savings, especially if you live in a state where the vaccine cannot be ordered and administered by you.

Spaying And Neutering Pets
Check your area for 'snap' Programs or Spay / Neuter Programs by your local spca. I found out that my local spca will send me a certificate (upon receiving payment first) that can be used at my veterinary office for much less than it would have cost me for using the same veterinary doctor/hospital! To neuter our male kitten my cost was only 19 instead of 68!

Puppy Trouble
This is a tip for any puppy owner who couldn't stop his puppy from swallowing something he shouldn't. Recently my pup swallowed a buck-eye (a large seed from a tree). I called the vet emergency line and they said it was toxic. They recommended that I come to their office immediately so they could induce vomiting. I continued to call vets to get a second opion. A different Vet said to put about 1/2 tsp to 1 tsp of salt on the back of her tongue and she will vomit. It worked within five minutes and I recovered the buck-eye. Ultimately this saved me a vet trip that could have cost over 100. Always consult a Vet first, every situation is unique.

Multiple Cats
With four cats of our own and fostering a mom and her four babies, odor and cat hair (I vacuum a lot!) are issues. Use long, under the bed, tupperware sweater containers for litter boxes. It tends to mask the odor better because there is more surface area for them to utilize. Also put paper under the scoopable litter and change the paper after you scoop. It prevent urine from building up on the bottom of the container and leaving an odor.

Save Big Money on Kitty Litter
I have many cats--all are inside kitties--and was seeking a way to use litter that was safe (non-clumping) but cheap. I started using Feline Pine (pine pellets) which I loved for the ease of use and pleasant scent, but discovered a way to really save money. The Feline Pine runs about ten dollars per 20lb. bag. I now buy woodstove pellets at my local feed and grain or hardware store (just call and ask if they have them in stock ahead of time). The cost? Woodstove pellets are only $3.99 per 40lb. bag.

Help For Hot Spots
My dog occasionally gets small reddish 'hot spots'. These look like areas that are maybe just getting licked too much. A little dab of Crisco rubbed in once (repeat in a couple of days if needed) clears these right up. It will look like the dog just licks the Crisco right off again but it still works great. No more painful looking spots on Spot! (Note: Always check with your veterinarian before trying or administering any procedure not prescribed by a qualified veterinarian. We make no representation that this or any other tip is advisable for your animal.)

Pamper Your Horse
No expensive shampoos are necessary to make your horse happy! Simply buy regular on-sale people shampoo and use a mixture of dreft and water to dip the tail in a bucket to soak for awhile. Softens the hair and promotes easy combing. For stubborn burrs stuck in manes and tails use vegetable oil let it soak and the burr falls apart in your comb. Avon's Skin So Soft used on both you and your horse will keep you both fly free for an afternoon's riding. Happy Trails to You! (Note: Always check with your veterinarian before trying or administering any procedure not prescribed by a qualified veterinarian. We make no representation that this or any other tip is advisable for your animal.)

Pills For Your Pooch
I have a hard time giving my golden retrievers pills. I found that if I break off an inch or so of a banana and push the pill into it my dogs love taking their pills!

Cheapskate Purebreds
Aim High! Want the best-bred best-cared for pet of all? Be specific when considering the pet of your dreams: color, age, size, temperament matter. Then be flexible. Look through pet classifieds, specialty magazines, and internet sites to see who has pups/kittens for sale. Ask who has the best animals in online discussions. For example, top breeders often have finished showing and breeding their best dogs, and may be willing to part with older dogs, retiring them to a good home. They often have potential champions needing more space, time and attention than is available.

Small Pet Bedding
I save money on litter for my guinea pig bedding by shredding my old bills etc. and then mixing several handfuls of the shredded paper in with the expensive litter. This basically doubles the life of the litter and recycles the old paper. T

Male Cat Spray
I have four male cats who sometimes like to 'spray' their territory. I have a spray bottle with 1/2 cup White Vinegar, one cup of Ammonia and the rest with water. I shake it up and spray, wash the area and then spray again to make sure the area does not smell. I use white vinegar (1/4 c.), ammonia (1/4 c.) and baking soda (1/4 c.) in the wash to clean all clothes that also might have their 'scent' to remove their odors also.

Free Doggie Bones!
Our two huge dogs enjoy real bones although some vets don't recommend them we have always indulged....we find that at our locals grocers, if we go to the meat counter, and simply ask for a 'bone for our dog' they produce wonderful huge bones. Some are shoulder joint bones, etc, but they are enormous and free. Frequently meatcutters keep them behind the counter or in the back. If you ask for a bone for your dog, they generally have one, ask them if they charge for them. If unable to find one, for an occasional treat, check out the meat counter and you may find a huge 'soup' type bone for as low as 25-50 cents.

Dog Bed
Instead of throwing away our families old pillows and pillowcases, I use them for beds for our dog. I can remove the pillowcase to wash as often as I need to. I air out and wash the pillow as often as needed and when it is necessary I throw it away and use another one. If the dog is the only one ready for a new pillow I can purchase a pair at Sams Club for about six dollars and they last for months. Our dog sleeps just as comfortable as she would on an expensive dog bed, if not better. (This 'bed' is already broken in!)

Protect Privacy/pamper a Pooch
We all understand the usefulness of protecting our privacy by periodically shredding certain documents that we no longer need. But what are we to do with the mountains of shredded paper we produce? Why not donate it to your local animal shelter? The shredded paper is great for lining cages and is in great demand at most shelters. And think about it who's going to go 'pawing' through your personal documents after the shelter is finished with them?!

Cat Hair Removal
To remove most pet hair from furniture, especially cat hair, put on a pair of latex gloves and rub hands over furniture in one direction. Hair will clump for easy removal.

Removing Pet Hair From Carpet
No matter which type of vacuum I use I have found out it is nearly impossible to remove all of the stray hairs my dog sheds on a daily basis. There are a few simple tricks that I found to be helpful. Take a broom and make short 'sweeps' towards yourself over the carpet after vacuuming. The friction helps pull the hair together in a pile that can be easily picked up and thrown away. Another option is to dampen a sponge or rag and wipe across the surface. This will roll the hair together making it even easier to collect.

Cat Furniture Saves People Furniture!
Cats love to scratch things! Their claws need it but our 'people' furniture does not! The carpeted cat furniture that we see for sale to help with this matter can be very expensive (200 dollars and higher!) You can make cat furniture that your cats will love for a fraction of the cost! Go to a thrift store and buy a really beat-up inexpensive piece of furniture. Next, buy discontinued sample carpet pieces (usually the size of a doormat and bound around the edges) at a carpet outlet. It usually costs either one or two dollars each. Spend another dollar on some carpet tacks (be sure they are long enough to hold the carpet down so the cat can't pull it off while clawing at it.) Hammer the carpet into place. If possible, place kitty's new furniture near a window.

Pooper Scooper
A recycled plastic bag from the produce section and two paper towels make a cheap and effective waste disposal system that is easy to store until needed. Place the paper towels over the feces, put your hand inside the plastic bag, pick up the paper towels and 'calling card' while turning the bag inside out so that the contents end up in the bag. Then tie a knot in the bag and dispose of it in the nearest trash receptacle. It is common courtesy to clean up after your pet!

Make a Great Chew Toy For Dogs Who Like to Chew!
My dog loves to chew and as long as I buy plenty of toys for her to destroy she will leave my furniture alone...but I grew tired of spending all that money at the pet mart. I tried knotting old t-shirts but they don't last long. One day at the hardware store I discovered thick braided, nylon rope. It reminds me of stuff used on boats, water-proof and durable! I bought a foot of that and tied a knot in the middle and one at each end. She loves it! And it lasts much longer than anything else. The best thing is it only cost about two dollars.

How to Clean Pet Hair From Furniture
A simple and inexpensive way to remove pet hair from your furniture chairs etc. is to take a damp rag or old washcloth and rub it over the surface. The cat hair (or dog hair) will ball up and is easy to collect with the rag.

Have You Got a 'Smelly' Dog?
If your dog comes in from the rain or snow smelling like a wet dog, here's a tip that works great for me. After wiping your dog off take a used dryer sheet and gently wipe over his fur. After a few rubs, he will smell dryer fresh!--(Note: Always check with your veterinarian before trying or administering any procedure not prescribed by a qualified veterinarian. We make no representation that this or any other tip is advisable for your animal.)

Yeast Infections in Dog's Ears
I spent hundreds of dollars at the vet's office and couldn't find the source of my dog's ear problems. Someone suggested it might be a yeast infection and to try a cream for vaginal yeast infection. Used one of the over-the-counter creams for one day treatment and put it in every day till almost gone. Problem has not come back. (Note: Always check with your veterinarian before trying or administering any procedure not prescribed by a qualified veterinarian. We make no representation that this or any other tip is advisable for your animal.)--

Chewing Pets
My dog nearly destroyed my house before I finally found something that would keep her from chewing. I tried everything and finally someone suggested Cayenne pepper. Simply sprinkle a little bit abound the areas where your pet chews and they'll stop! Be careful though because does stain a little bit.

Making Your Own Pet Food
If you choose to make your own pet food never use onions. Onions are toxic to many animals.

Cold Water
During hot summer days I would fill my dogs water bowl with ice cubes from my ice maker but would soon run out for the family. Now I take a mid size Tupperware freezer container & fill it with water & freeze overnight. In the morning I drop the 'big ice cube' in her water bowl & refill the container & let it freeze while I'm gone to work & then do the same thing when I get home from work.

Ice Cube Dog Treats
Anytime we want our dog to get in his kennel we take an ice cube out of the freezer. Before the freezer door is closed our dog is in his kennel waiting for his ice cube! They work great as an alternative to pricey dog treats and biscuits.

Shiny Horses!
Instead of purchasing those expensive 'coat conditioners' and sprays for your horses here's a simple trick. Use a drier sheet i.e. Bounce Snuggle and rub this over a freshly bathed horse. Keeps the dirt from sticking and is not harmful to their coats or skin. Also puts an excellent shine on their coats. Another trick is adding a cup of white vinegar to your rinse bucket....makes their coats gleam and helps to remove manure stains, especially on the white portions!

Yard Cleanup
I always found it very frustrating to try to do 'poop pick-up' with a shovel or scooper so I bought inexpensive all purpose latex gloves. I simply pick up the piles and put into a zip lock bag. Fast easy and sanitary.

Giving Liquid Medicines
Ask your vet to give you a small plastic syringe-type liquid medicine dispenser in case kitty or pup needs a dose of medicine. This device squirts the meds right into the mouth it is much easier to get it all in and easier to measure the dose. I use it for the occasional dose of kaopectate or pepto-bismol for my dogs.

Emergency Cat Shampoo
I have a cat so fat that it can't reach a lot of places to clean itself. It hates baths and taking it to the vet for shampoos costs. I discovered that rubbing the cat down with baby wipes and then combing out loose hair, works very well. He looks better, smells better and even seems to feel better.

Reuse Ziplocks and Other Bags
For dog owners who want to leave the environment "safe" for little feet: save Ziplocks, bread bags, and nearly every kind of (air tight) plastic bag. Take an empty bag with you when walking Fido. When the dog does it's "business," invert the bag, pick up the mess, pull bag right-side-out then either zip or knot the mess inside. Keep used bags in container outside and toss accumulation out each week with the trash.

Reuse the Toilet Rolls
Instead of buying those expensive little pipes for your hamsters to play and crawl in, you can simply use the empty toilet rolls for them. And if it is dirty or being chewed on, simply throw them away and replace them again with the rolls. It will definitely save you money and time to wash the pipes when they are dirty. Little windows or doors can be cut in the toilet rolls too!

Cheap/Fun Pet Toys
Give your puppies hours of fun with empty tightly-capped 20 oz. plastic soft drink or water containers. When you tire of the noise or he is no longer interested, pitch it in the recycle box.

Natural, Cheap Stain/Odor Remover
I am the proud owner of 3 wonderful cats and this works for dog owners, too. I am very sensitive to animal odors and the only stain/odor remover that I use is white vinegar. I go to BJ's or Sam's Club and buy a case. I use the vinegar straight on all surfaces; wood, linoleum or carpets. Vinegar works in the laundry, too. When I steam clean furniture, I put in a gallon. Not only does this neutralize the odor but keeps your pet from returning to the "scene of the accident". A gallon of fancy stain/odor remover is $25, white vinegar is $3.

Cheap Toys for Your Pets
I go to my local thrift store and buy stuffed animals that are in decent shape. My cost is only about 50 cents per toy. At home, I put the toys in a pillowcase and put them in the washer with one cup of bleach (to kill any diseases like parvo) and detergent. I then launder and put them into the dryer.

Cat Litter
Seen the price of cat litter lately? I did, and found a way of getting free litter. I shred newspapers and old flyers into strips to use for litter, and the cats don't notice the difference anymore. Get your cat used to the idea by slowly adding the paper strips to his clay litter. Soon you can add more strips than clay litter, then all paper strips. The clay dust made one heck of a mess, but the newspaper is absorbent and seems to cut down the odor, too. No more carrying huge bags of litter for 3 indoor cats.

Dog Treats
Forget those expensive dog treats! Fill a small plastic container with dry dog food and give your dog a bite-size portion for a snack or reward. It's better for your dog's health and a great way to give those pets on a restricted diet a treat, too.

Penny Pinching With Your Pets
I've always been nervous about cutting my dog's nails too short, and am not going to pay the vet to do it! Groomers buy expensive electric filers, but I've found that my Husband's rotary tool (sometimes known as dremmels) with a fine sanding sleeve (they're about 3/4 inch in size) works great and the dog will let you know well in advance if your getting too close to the quick. Also, if you've got doggie dandruff problems, try diluting Avon's Skin So Soft with water in a clean spray bottle and spray it on fido, rubbing it in as you go. This doubles as a tick, flea repellent and smells great as well!

Inexpensive Flea Control
The easiest and cheapest way I have ever found to keep fleas away is to add one tablespoon of apple cider vinegar to your dog's dish every day. I give each of my dogs canned food in the morning, and the vinegar is stirred right in. Give one tablespoon per dog, no matter what size the dog is. I got this tip from a breeder friend who has been doing this for over 25 years. Fleas would rather be anywhere else than on a dog who ingests vinegar daily!

Reuse Those Old Socks!
When my socks start to become ragged and full of holes, I tie a knot in them and give them to my dog. They make inexpensive toys and keep him from chewing on my furniture and shoes.

Num-Nums for the Kitten
Whenever I open up a can of tuna to make tuna salad, my cat goes postal! She knows she's not supposed to be up on the counter, but she'll jump up their anyway. I started giving her the juice that you drain from the can of tuna, and now she patiently waits at my feet because she knows she's about to have a treat.

Natural Healthy Food for Your Dogs!
An inexpensive way to give healthy food for your dogs is by cooking them yourself. Believe me, they're good balanced food for your pets. Take down this simple recipe. Chicken liver, fish or any meat. Carrots, potatoes, pumpkin or any vegetables and cooked rice. Just boil meat and any two vegetables till soft. Smash them and mix with rice, then serve. You can get lots of chicken livers and fishes for such a small amount of money. Feed your dogs with lots of fruits and nuts and they'll live longer.

Scooper Saver
I have a very picky cat who has to have her box cleaned at least twice daily! I have taken an old lidded container, put a plastic sack inside (leave several by the box to use later) and scoop used litter out and dispose of in container with lid on top. Saves time and smell. Usually lasts 2 days. I like big Cool Whip or cottage cheese containers. These are easier to throw away. It's better to use scoopable litter than regular.

Picky Eaters
My cats and dogs will only eat the higher quality food which naturally costs more. I want to give them the nutrients they need so I buy the better food for them. In order to make it last twice as long I also buy a bag of the generic or lower priced pet food and mix them together half and half. My pets love it and don't know the difference! They get their nutrition and I save $$.

Outside Pet Grooming
Why put your outside pets through a cold water bath? I hook the waterbed attachment to the faucet in the bathroom, run the hose through the window and now I have warm water to bath my pets in. This attachment can be purchased in your local department stores. Your pet will thank you.

Sweaters for Tiny Dogs
We buy a sweatshirt from a 2nd hand store (.50 to 1.00) or you can use a used one of your own. Measure dog or pup from shoulder to rump. Measure on sleeve of sweatshirt from cuff to elbow, cut. On both sides of seam on sweatshirt cut two holes for legs. You can cut with pinking shears or hem and add puff paints etc. for decoration. Or leave plain. Some turtlenecks can be used if sleeve stretches.

Pet Food Quality
The recommended daily feeding charts. In many cases you feed the animal AT LEAST 25-30% less when feeding premium brands instead of grocery store brands. Other benefits are that the animal is more healthy (which can reduce vet visits), has a shiny coat and less skin problems, and there is less waste in your yard (great benefit here for large dog owners!).

Ear Infections
If your dog or cat is prone to ear infections, flush the ear canal once or twice a week with a mixture of equal parts of white vinegar, water, and rubbing alcohol. This is great for animals that swim or get bathed often. I even use it on my children after they've been swimming. Fewer doctor visits!

Outdoor Water Dish
I use old bunt pans for my dog's water. I push a wooden stick through the hole in the middle of the pan into the ground to keep the pan from turning over. The pan can be lifted off for cleaning but wont tip over accidentally by the dog.

Save Your Mattresses
I found a great way to save the underneath of your box springs from the wear and tear of animals. My cat used to crawl underneath the box springs make a hole and get inside and hide or scratch at the filling/stuffing. This can be very expensive and tacking or stapling the interfacing cover didn't work because he would just make another hole. I decided to try a fitted sheet. By putting it on the underneath of the box spring it keeps the cat out of there, or any other small animal that likes to play hide and seek.

Cheaper Cat Litter
Instead of buying bags of expensive cat litter, go to a bulk buying store like Sam's Club and go to the automotive department. You can get a big bag of the clay used for making your driveway less slippery. It's the same stuff, without the perfume. It's cheaper and it's also better for your cat.

Fresh Kitty Litter
I clean the litter box daily of scoopable litter. Then once a week I sprinkle in about 1/2 cup baking soda. I don't have to change the litter for two weeks ... with no odor in between. But I only have one cat ... I would imagine it would require more frequent maintenance with more cats.

Budget Pet Bed
To make an inexpensive pet bed, take a large plastic laundry basket, (oval looks nicest but rectangular will work) and cut an opening in the middle through the top edge and mesh part from top to bottom on one of the long sides. The cut-out part should be about one-third the width of that side. Use a bed pillow covered in a pillowcase for the bottom. It's washable and can be color-coordinated to fit the decor of the room. Use a broken laundry basket and adjust the cut-out part to fit that area for greatest savings.

Don't Let Your Puppy Chew You Out...
If your puppy is a chewer...and they all are!! Try bitter apple spray, found in most pet stores, squirt this on your shoes or your furniture or even your hands and arms when that puppy tries to chew on them. Whatever you have sprayed then tastes bad and he won't chew, anything but his toys. This has saved us hundreds of dollars, as our big, busy dog loves to chew!! This also works to prevent excessive barking.

Pet Hair Clean-up
Every day in the mountain of junk mail I receive there is included some paper-backed self adhesive material. The stuff used for self adhesive address labels and stickers and so forth. I keep these in one place and then when I have a pet hair accumulation on some material, I use them like they were the expensive pet hair clean-up rollers you could buy. This not only saves me money but cuts down on the waste that comes each day in the mail.

Quick Wash for Pets
Take a spray bottle and mix 3-tablespoons of baking soda, 1-teaspoon of dishwashing liquid, Optional 1-teaspoon baby oil. Spray liberally on dog, wipe dry with damp cloth or towel. This will clean up the animal without having to bathe them. It also makes them smell better.

Flea Control
Several years ago I read a Jerry Baker (On the Garden Line) tip about naturally preventing fleas from bothering pets. All you do is add 1 teaspoon of white vinegar to each quart of the pet's drinking water. We have two dogs and have not had any fleas since using the vinegar water. To make it easy to add, I found a pump bottle and tested to see how much of a teaspoon one pump would equal. Then I measured how much water is in a full bowl. I keep the filled vinegar bottle next to the sink and just pump the desired amount into the bowl before filling the bowl with water. It's a lot easier and safer than sprays and chemically treated collars... cheaper, too!

Cheap Vaccines: DIY
Many people seem not to know that you can buy and give your pets their vaccines. This saves hugely over a vet visit! Vaccines can be ordered by mail (e.g. KV Vet 1800 423-8211; I have no connection), or bought in some farm supply stores. My dog's annual shot costs $2.99. Dog & cat vaccines are given subcutaneously, which is easy to do. Your vet can show you how, and give you information on what vaccine to purchase. Or ask a breeder or kennel owner. Two warnings: some places (e.g. kennels) may hassle you; they prefer a vet's records to your word to know a pet is vaccinated. And in many states you can't do this with rabies; state authorities require that vets do that one. Even so, this saves hugely on the cost of the shots and of course, those pricey vet visits.

Keeping Pet Odors At Bay
I share my home with 2 cats and 1 dog. For those of you with pets, you know that sometimes "the smell" is inevitable. Instead of buying those expensive carpet fresheners, use baking soda instead. You can purchase them for 3.99 and they leave behind an extremely fresh scent that won't offend your 4 legged friends.

Keep the car clean!
Next time you have an extra sheet (full size works good/ depends on size of your car), particularly a fitted sheet, keep it in the back seat of your car. If you spread it out, and (tuck the edges in if you have seats that fold down for a tighter fit) always have it ready when your dog jumps in the back and you won't have to keep running to the car-vac. Once it looks dirty or filled with dog hair it's easy to wash in the washing machine!

Washing the Dog
Get in the shower with doggie, and give him a good lather. After doggie was clean, I took time out to dry him off and send him on his way. I then would jump back in the shower, clean the shower as I lathered up, and a few minutes later, stepped out accomplishing three goals in one. Washing the dog, scrubbing the shower, and cleaning up myself! Not only was this hassle free, easier on the back, less messy, and less time consuming, it saved on water and it was always less stressful for the dog knowing that he was not alone CAUTION: DO NOT TRY THIS WITH YOUR CAT!

Kitty Litter Bags
My indoor cats use scoop litter and I found that grocery bags often had tiny little holes that leaked dirty litter as I carried them to the front door. Meanwhile, I was becoming more and more frustrated with the bags that came daily with our newspaper inside. Then I out two and two together...use the newspaper bags for the litter! The are double plastic so nothing leaks and I feel better about putting them into the garbage bin.

Tips for poor horse owners
You can save a great deal of money by using a self-care stable instead of a full-care facility. You not only get to know your horse better (horses respond better under saddle for people they know and love well), but the exercise you get from mucking your horse's stall is terrific. If your riding instructor is also a reputable horse trainer and your baby needs work, ask her if she can alternate between the two of you -- a lesson for you one week, a lesson strictly for the horse the next.

Shedding Pets
To quickly clean furniture or clothing victimized by shedding pets, dampen a sponge and run it across the surface of the item. This works much better than adhesives like tape, and is less expensive than buying brushes -- and it does a much, much better job!

Flea Getter
This is a natural remedy for getting rid of fleas. Liquefy some orange peels, grapefruit peels, 1 Tbsp. rosemary (fresh is better but dried will do) l pint water all in your blender. Then put mixture in a pot and heat it on low for 15-20 min. Strain liquid so you can put it in a spray bottle. Spray on pets and rub well into the coat. Also spray in the favorite napping areas and carpeting. Do avoid getting into your pets eyes. It works!

Bird Cage Liners
If you own caged birds, you have seen how expensive those bird cage liners are at the store (the gravel paper). Since we like to change the cage liners daily, this option was getting very costly. Instead, we cut up our paper grocery sacks from the store, trimming them to fit the cage bottom. Then we buy a box of bird gravel from Wal-mart and just add a pinch to the paper. This costs almost nothing, and the box of gravel lasts forever.

Reusing the Fish Tank Water
Instead of throwing out the fish tank water when cleaning the tank, use it to water your house plants! It is full of nutrients and will eliminate the need for fertilizing your plants. And you were going to pour it down the drain!

Cat Discipline
To keep our cat from jumping on the kitchen counter or other forbidden places, purchase a small spray bottle (found in the cosmetic section of most grocery stores). Fill with water. When your cat misbehaves, give her a few sprays. Your cat will immediately stop whatever its doing and it's completely harmless.

Easy Nail Care
Save your money and your furniture too by clipping your cat's or dog's nails at home. All you need is a pair of ordinary human toenail clippers and perhaps an assistant to help hold your pet. Gently press the middle of your pets foot to expose the nails and clip them 1/8 inch from the quick vein(usually the darker part of the nail). If you do accidentally cut the quick dipping the nail in flour will stop any bleeding. If done weekly the quick will pull back further and Fluffy or Fido will probably become more cooperative as you groom them regularly.

Spectacular rodents

WHEN Barbara Greaves bought her first rat nine years ago, she trawled the internet looking for advice on how to raise them.

Now the vice-president of the Australian Rodent Fanciers Society (Qld) and a rat judge at rodent shows, Miss Greaves is the proud owner of two rats and three mice.

Formerly a cat owner, Miss Greaves said she knew nothing about rodents before buying her first rat, preferring instead to “jump in feet first”.

“I rent and it’s not always easy to have a cat or a dog but (landlords often) don’t mind caged pets so the odd little mouse in a cage is not really a problem,” Miss Greaves said.

Australian Rodent Fanciers Society (Qld) is among dozens of animal groups and exhibitors taking part in Spectacular Petacular at the RNA Showgrounds this weekend.

Miss Greaves said the society’s membership was transient as rodents had a short life expectancy, up to 18 months for mice and two-and-a-half years for rats.

“I have a mouse that’s two-and-a-half but she’s really looking her age.” (Source: by Belinda Seeney, City South News)

Local veterinarians take their talents to Mexico

Photo by Michelle Smith Dr. Stacy Steele of the Ocean Shores Animal Hospital performs a spay operation on a 12-week-old puppy, Oreja. Steele went to Loreto, Mexico, to treat animals as part of a program sponsored by the World Vets organization. ��

OCEAN SHORES— Some local veterinarians recently returned from a trip to Mexico to treat more than 200 animals south of the border.

Dr. Stacy Steele, and vet assistants Michelle Smith and Sarah Kelley — all from Ocean Shores Animal Hospital — were joined by veterinarians from across the United States and Canada in Loreto, Mexico, to perform spay and neuter surgeries and medical exams on area animals.

The efforts were part of a program sponsored by the World Vets Organization, a non-profit organization that works with local authorities, community leaders and organizations to establish sustainable veterinary aid programs in developing countries.

“Helping people and their pets” was the best part of the trip, according to Steele. “We do spay and neuter clinics here and being able to share those skills and make a difference was neat.”

More than 265 cats and dogs were spayed and neutered at a small compound named “Animalandia” over a four-day period, Steele said. She said the unwanted pet population is worse in Mexico than in the United States because there are few shelters to care for unwanted animals.

“The way of life is different in Mexico,” Steele said. “Many people are just trying to survive and pets are not a high priority. They are not the pampered ‘kids’ like many are here in the states.”

Steele said that many of the dogs and cats that were brought in to the spay and neuter clinic were released by their owners, and were destined to be euthanized.

Steele said Oreja is adjusting to life in America. Oreja goes to work with Steele every day and has earned the nickname, “Mexican Street Dog.” (Source: By Rachel Thomson - The Daily World)

Cats restrained under new bylaw

PETS: Roxby Downs Pet Management Subcommittee spokesperson John Read, pictured with his Ninti and Kalka, welcomes council laws which mean cats are treated similarly to dogs.

South Australia ~ A new council bylaw will mean cats, must be registered and contained or restrained 24 hours a day.

The Roxby Downs Council pet management bylaw was approved by the State Government’s Legislative Review Committee and is now in operation throughout the town.

Roxby Downs Pet Management Subcommittee spokesperson John Read said the Environment Forum, the Community Board, the Roxby administrator and the Dog and Cat Management Board had already endorsed the new rules that were drafted following considerable consultation with the local community.

“After a concerted period of community consultation in 2007 and early 2008, it has taken another year of waiting for the cogs of bureaucracy to slowly turn,” Mr Read said.

“We are relieved to have now achieved the first step of our objective to improve the management and welfare of Roxby pets.”

Mr Read said the level of community support has been fantastic for introducing the rules that mean cats are treated the same as dogs.

“Interestingly, the keenest advocates for more stringent rules have been cat owners themselves, who recognise the benefits of containment to their pets, their neighbours and their environment,” Mr Read said.

“Several residents have already established cat runs or aviaries to contain their cats, others have trained their cats to be content in their houses, where they are far less likely to be injured than free-roaming pets.”

Mr Read has been a Roxby Downs resident for 20 years and has seen many examples of uncontrolled dogs and cats causing nuisance or endangering residents, pets or wildlife.

“Finally we will have the ability to legally and responsibly deal with problem animals, and their more problematic owners,” Mr Read said.

“Concerned residents need only to take a photo of a dog or cat at large and the council will be able to take the appropriate action, which is far preferable to disgruntled vigilantes dealing with the problem themselves.

“This new Bylaw fits with the Environment Forum’s objective of making Roxby Downs a clean and green town which we can all be proud of.” (Source: Roxy Downs Sun)

"Extinct" Bird Seen, Eaten

Found only on the island of Luzon, Worcester's buttonquail was known solely through drawings based on dated museum specimens collected several decades ago.

Scientists had suspected the species—listed as "data deficient" on the International Union for Conservation of Nature's 2008 Red List—was extinct.

A TV crew documented the live bird in the market (above) before it was sold in January, according to the Agence France-Press news agency.

Michael Lu, president of the Wild Bird Club of the Philippines, told AFP the bird's demise should inspire a "local consciousness" about the region's threatened wildlife.

"What if this was the last of its species?" Lu said.

However, the buttonquail is from a "notoriously cryptic and unobtrusive family of birds," according to the nonprofit Birdlife International, so the species may survive undetected in other regions. (Source: Christine Dell'Amore, nationalgeographic.com)

Ferrets are part of the mustelidae family - carnivorous mammals that include minks and otters. Ferrets are believed to be descendants of the European polecat and were domesticated more than 2,000 years ago. They cannot survive in the wild.

How long do ferrets live? How big do they get?

Ferrets live about seven years, according to Marc Morrone, a Newsday columnist and owner of Rockville Centre pet store Parrots of the World. Males average about 3 pounds, while females can weigh as little as 1 to 11/2 pounds. They have glands that secrete a scent when they're alarmed.

When did people start keeping ferrets as pets?

Ferrets have become popular as pets in the past three decades. Exterminators once used them to chase rats out of holes, and hunters used them to flush rabbits from burrows. Ferrets will not harm them.

The late Dr. Wendy Winstead, a veterinarian in New York City, is credited with popularizing ferrets as pets in 1980, Morrone said. Winstead appeared on television shows with her ferrets and came up with a method of de-scenting and neutering ferrets.

The 1982 movie "The Beastmaster" featured two ferrets, further increasing their popularity. Now, Morrone said, ferrets are the third most popular pet in the United States, following cats and dogs. He said they are also the most popular pet in Tokyo, probably because they are small, mute and low-maintenance.

Ferrets are not legal in California and Hawaii and a number of municipalities, including New York City.

What kind of temperament do ferrets have?

Ferrets are playful, intelligent creatures. They average about 18 hours of sleep a day.

They are usually kept in cages. The American Ferret Association recommends taking them out of the cage about four hours a day and interacting or playing with them at least two hours a day.

Do ferrets recognize their owners?

Yes, ferrets are as intelligent as dogs or cats, Morrone said. They have a sense of self and respond to their names and to individuals like their owners.

But, Morrone said, like dogs and cats, ferrets live for the moment. So if their immediate needs are met - they are fed and treated well - they will remain content and will not mind changing owners.
(Source: SUMATHI REDDY,DJFeathers)

Exotic Pets Saved Through Animal Amnesty

MIAMI -- A major drawback to owning exotic animals is their need for special care. Often, these creatures become burdensome for untrained people and end up flushed, dumped or abandoned. One program aims to prevent that, with a little old fashioned amnesty.

The Pet Amnesty Day is a way to curb the illegal and dangerous act of turning exotic animals free -- into the wild.

One such waylaid pet is Sandy, the bearded dragon. Native to Australia, she's challenging to care for. She’s a long way from home, but is now in good hands thanks to wild life officials at the Miami Metro Zoo.

"(Bearded Dragons) come from very hot climates; they live in over 100 degrees," said Ron Magill of the Miami Metro Zoo, where Animal Amnesty takes place.

Her home must be heated, and she's a very finicky eater -- meal worms and spiders are her favorite. She needs sunlight, daily, to survive.

"And people think 'Oh, I can just keep it in a tank and throw in a meal worm with a thing of water,' " said Magill. “It’s not going to survive, it’s gonna (sic) get vitamin deficiencies, it’s gonna suffer. It’s not gonna make it. People start to realize that after a while and that’s when they try to give it away."

In fact, a bearded dragon just like Sandy was turned in at the recent exotic pet amnesty day in Miami. More than 150 animals were taken in free, no questions asked. The motley crew collected included a boa constrictor, a macaw, turtles and iguanas.

"We even had a serval cat, a wild spotted cat from Africa donated, some of us were surprised by the variety of animals that were turned in," said Magill.

The number one goal of Animal Amnesty Day here at the Miami MetroZoo is to ensure exotic pets don't end up being released into the wild, where they can harm native animal populations.

"We’re encountering that problem right now with the pythons in the everglades, people have a tendency to release these animals into the everglades or into the wild and that is causing a big problem with us now,” said Jorge Pino of Florida Fish & Wildlife.

“We’re trying to combat that the best we can," he said. "But it might be a no-win situation at this point."

Pino is urging people check the facts and licensing requirements before they even consider buying an exotic animal. For example, a tiny green iguana at the pet store can grow to six feet in length.

"Do your homework -- what size does this animal get after a few months, after a few years," said Pinp. "What kind of food does the animal need, to make sure you’re going to be comfortable caring for an animal."

Animal expert Ron Magill has other advice for those who are searching for their next creature companion. He believes no wild animals make a good family pet.

“If you want a good pet, save an animal that’s in a pound," said Magill. "I mean, we have thousands and thousands of animals in pounds, cats and dogs that are looking for good homes. That will give you the love and affection that an animal like this can’t give you.” And save the exotic animals, for your next visit to the zoo.

To find out more about the animal amnesty program, visit the zoo’s Web site at www.miamimetrozoo.com. (Source: by Emily Oz, zootoo.com)

After 9 years, missing dog returns to family

A German shepherd named Astro who has been missing from his family for more than 9 years is finally home.

The Geary family was shocked when they recently received a call from an animal control officer who said that Astro had been found.

The Geary’s adopted Astro, an 80-pound black and off-white German shepherd, about 9 years ago from the Treasure Coast Humane Society near Port St. Lucie, Fla. A month later, Astro went missing.

Since then, the family moved three times and ended up in Louisville, Ky.

On Jan. 29, 2009, an animal control officer in Tennessee picked up Astro after receiving a report about a dog running loose. Officers tracked down the family through a microchip implanted in the canine when he was adopted.

Dennis Geary says he wasn’t sure if Astro would remember him. But when they were reunited, the dog sat down and began licking him.

“It’s still a real shock that he is actually here,” his wife Linda Geary told TCPalm.com about having the family’s dog back. “We are getting used to the fact that we don’t know where he has been or who had him, but he’s our dog and has always been our dog.”

It’s now been three weeks since the pooch has been home. Even though Astro was gone for so long, Dennis says he’s never forgotten him — all these years he kept Astro’s picture in his wallet. (Source: wcanews in Dogs)

1. Food-Related Items: First item of business is a place to put the food. Metal or ceramic containers for food and water are best. Some cats may develop a chin rash related to a plastic food dish. A good option for busy cat owners would be automatic food and water servers, which keep your cat's meals fresh even when you're out and about.

For food itself, don't buy too much before you bring your cat home. Keep your cat's nutritional needs in mind, as kittens need extra nutrients for growth and overweight cats may need a restricted diet. With this in mind, purchase several brands and flavors of food in both canned and dry varieties for your cat to try. Once you figure out your cat's favorites, keep those in stock.

2. Litter Box: The use of a litter box is one of the many benefits of being a cat owner. Most popular nowadays is the clumping clay type of litter, because it clumps around urine, making the litter box easy to clean. However, clumping clay can be harmful if ingested, so it should not be used with kittens and may not always be appropriate for adult cats. Plant-based litter is an alternative option.

As for the litter box itself, many shapes and sizes are available. Start simply with a plastic box that fits your cat—adult cats need a sizeable one with high sides, since they tend to throw the litter around a bit. Kittens, on the other hand, need one that is low enough that they can climb in.

3. Grooming Tools: Properly groomed cats are healthier and happier. Grooming can also be an opportunity for you and your cat to bond. Grooming a cat's hair helps prevent hairballs and keeps your house cleaner, which any allergic visitors would greatly appreciate. To groom hair, purchase a rubber-backed pin brush and a fine-tooth comb.

Clipping your cat's nails also helps prevent overgrown toenails and excessive scratching. For your cat's comfort and ease of use, purchase a nail clipper specifically designed for cats.

4. Cat Toys: Cats and cat owners love to play. One of the simplest and favorite cat toys is the “dangling lure” variety. Before purchasing, be certain that all parts are sturdily connected and won't be a choking hazard for your cat.

Other than the dangling lure, more expensive and creative toys are constantly being invented. Your only limits are space and budget!

5. Cat Carrier: Although a cardboard carrier from the pet store or shelter offers a short-term solution, you will be carrying your cat for many years to come. Even if your cat will live indoors, you will still need to take him out occasionally for vet appointments or possibly for boarding if you take a long trip. For long-term use, purchase a sturdy plastic carrier with a door that latches. Put a favorite blanket in the carrier and your cat will feel comfortable and secure in his travels.

6. Scratching Post: This is an item that new cat owners may not think of, but veteran cat lovers swear by! Cats will scratch—it's in their nature. Providing your cat with a scratching post can help save your furniture and drapes and keep your cat happy. Like toys, scratching posts are available in a wide variety of shapes, styles, and prices. Many purchased at a store also have catnip scent to attract your cat's attention. Choose a scratching post based on your home, your cat's temperament, and your aesthetic preferences.

Now that you have armed yourself with the six basic cat items, you can bring your cat into a comfortable and welcoming home. (Source: Cat Articlecourtesy of I-Love-Cats.com)

A pet store is not a good place to buy a puppy because many of these pups come from puppy mills and may have serious health or behavior problems. Adopting a dog or puppy from a shelter or a rescue can cost between $100 and $250. This usually includes shots and spaying or neutering. A small dog will obviously need a small crate and it is cheaper to feed a small dog. Other initial expenses include, bowls, leash, collar, tags, license and toys. This can range in costs from $35 to $50. For a small dog, routine veterinary care, flea and tick control, and heartworm medicine can cost as much as $300 to $500 a year. Training and boarding will be additional costs and certain breeds of small dogs require regular professional grooming.

For a medium to large size dog, 50 pounds and over, it can cost as much as $500 a year for a high quality kibble. Most of the other required expenses are higher for bigger dogs, including a bigger crate, bigger collar, bigger dog bed, higher dose of flea/tick and heartworm medicine...you get the idea.

If you choose to buy a puppy from a breeder, you will spend anywhere from $800 to $2000 depending on the breed, with the average cost being around $1200. This may sound like a lot of money to spend on a dog but there are advantages to buying from a reputable breeder. You will be guaranteed a physically sound, healthy pup with a stable temperament. You will likely be able to see the pups parents and see a record of the pedigree. If you want to buy a pure breed dog, make sure to do your research. There are many things to consider before you decide if a certain dog is right for you or your family. There are shelters and rescues full of pure breed dogs because the owners didn't do their homework.

If you and your family decide to make the commitment, you will be happy to do whatever is needed to keep you new family member happy and healthy. Owning a dog or dogs is so rewarding and such a positive, beneficial experience it is worth the price, no matter the actual dollar amount. You will be paid back in unconditional love, devotion and fun for many years. You will have a best friend and protector for your children and you will have a furry family member that will lift your spirits, no matter how down you may feel. (Source: Bonkers)

Keep money in mind when choosing a pet

Pets can be costly, both to obtain and to keep.

While some dogs are free or almost free, registered dogs and so-called "designer" breeds usually start at about $500 and can run well over $1,000. That is just the beginning, however.

Basic equipment can be costly, depending on the size of the dog and the animal's place in the family. A simple dog bed can be obtained for as little as $10 for a small dog. A crate or kennel can cost under $50 or up to $500 or more, depending on size and use.

Dogs also need collars, leashes, food and water dishes, and, of course, the all-important dog food. Many family dogs have a variety of toys and are usually given treats such as dog biscuits.

The cost of pet ownership mounts when health care costs are included. Veterinarian visits can be as expensive as doctor's visits for the animal's human counterparts. Puppies need a series of three sets of immunizations, just like infants.

A visit to a vet's office starts at $60 to $80, plus shots and medications. If an owner wants a microchip embedded under the dog's skin with identifying information, it costs about $80. Spaying and neutering usually starts at about $250 and increases in proportion to the dog's size.

Emergency visits and hospitalizations can be much more. Professional grooming adds to the cost of dog ownership.

Cats aren't much less expensive. Even if a person chooses a common house breed instead of a pricey Siamese, there are still expenses:
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Litter box ($10 and up), litter ($6-$10), food and water dishes, collars, vet bills (similar to vet bills for dogs).

There are cheaper ways to go if a family really wants a pet but is on a limited budget.

Birds such as parakeets and finches are relatively inexpensive once equipment costs are met. They can be intelligent and entertaining. Their more exotic cousins, such as macaws, parrots and cockatiels can be very costly, however. A U.S.-bred macaw at a local pet store is priced at $2,000.

Bird owners can't always escape vet bills either, and they can be as high as a vet bill for a dog or cat, especially for exotic breeds.

Fish -- again, once the cost of the initial equipment is met -- can be another cheaper pet alternative. Aquarium setups can get expensive, however, depending on the size of tank and type of fish that will inhabit it.

Small furry animals such as hamsters, gerbils, rabbits and guinea pigs can be good, inexpensive choices, especially for families with children. The animal itself is fairly cheap and can be cuddly and loving. They have to be handled with care, however, because they can be fragile.

Turtles and reptiles such as snakes and lizards are sometimes popular choices also. Equipment costs can be high for cold-blooded animals that need supplemental heat and special diets, such as mice and crickets, however.

Probably the cheapest, easiest-to-care-for pet is the colorful betta fish, according to Franklin Feed and Pet Store pet specialist Jenn Twigger.

It comes in a dazzling array of vibrant colors, needs only an inexpensive fish bowl to live in, likes dirty water and needs to be fed only every other day.

Pet price tags

Dogs: Initial cost: Free to $1,000 or more for "designer" dogs.

Equipment needed: Crate, kennel or bed ($10 up to $100 or more); food and water dish ($5-$10); leash and collar ($10 up); food, $5 up for three-pound bag and up; vet visit, $50 up; shots, $60-$80; license, $5 up annually (lifetime licenses from $31 up); microchip, $80 up; grooming, $40 up depending on breed; spaying or neutering, $250 up depending on size, gender.

Cats: Initial cost: Free to $600 or more for exotic breeds such as Siamese.

Equipment needed: food and water dish ($5-$10); litter box ($10 up); litter ($10 up per bag); cat food, $4 bag and up; vet visit, $50 up; spying or neutering, $150 up; shots, $50 up; equipment such as scratching post, $20 up.

Birds: Initial cost: $5 up to $2,000 or more for exotic birds.

Equipment needed: cage, $20 up to $1,000 depending on size; bird feed, $7 bag and up; treats, $3 and up; vet visits, expensive.

Fish: Initial cost: Under $10 for a betta with small bowl, $5 up for other fish.

Equipment needed for betta: Fish bowl, cheap: $5-$10; food, cheap, needs no special tools, filters, etc. For other fish: tank, $25 up depending on size; filter, $10 up; stones and plants for tank, $10 up; water, free for freshwater fish; food, under $5 and up, depending on variety of fish. Elaborate salt-water fish tank can cost $1,000 or more to set up, without the fish.

Small animals: such as hamsters, gerbils, ferrets, snakes and lizards: Initial cost: From under $5 and up.

Equipment needed: tank or cage, from about $20 up; special lights for cold-blooded animals such as lizards and snakes: $15 up; stones, shelters, etc., $5 up; feed, from $5 bag for animals like hamsters to several dollars daily for animals that need live food such as lizards and snakes.

Cheapest pet to get and care for: Betta fish.

Likes dirty water, only needs to be fed once every two days. Probably no vet visits. (Source: VICKY TAYLOR, public opinion online)

Pet Remedies

Did you know that having animals around is a very effective stress buster?

There are several types of stress in one’s daily life. Some occur through the hectic pace of life, unrealistic expectations, chronic tension in family situations or relationships, work etc. Stress leads to innumerable disorders like exhaustion, depression, insomnia, migraines, ulcers, colitis, high blood pressure, asthma, allergies, alcoholism, heart disease and divorce.

Several remedies have been used to reduce stress like change in dietary habits, reflexology or exercise but an effective, but not well known, one is Animal Assisted Therapy.
What it involves

Animal-assisted therapy (AAT) involves an animal with specific characteristics becoming a fundamental part of a person’s treatment. Among various animals, dogs are most commonly used for pet therapy because they can be easily trained, are more interactive and social.

Therapy Dog refers to a dog trained to provide affection and comfort to people in hospitals, retirement homes, nursing homes, mental institutions, and in stressful situations such as disaster areas.

Research has shown that heart attack victims who have pets live longer.

A study of 92 patients hospitalised in coronary care units for angina or heart attack found that those who owned pets were more likely to be alive a year later than those who did not.

Research has also shown that pet ownership can reduce stress-induced symptoms, requires less medical care and adds years to your life.
Companionship

Over the years health care professionals have noticed the therapeutic effect of animal companionship, such as relieving stress, lowering blood pressure, and raising spirits and the demand for therapy dogs continues to grow.

In recent years, therapy dogs have helped children overcome speech and emotional disorders. The concept has widened to include other species, specifically therapy cats, therapy rabbits, and therapy birds.

People who own pets have to look after them; it’s like having kids. As a famous saying goes, “Dogs are not our whole life, but they make our lives whole.” (Source: Raghav Modi)

Cute Alert: Meet LA Zoo's New Meerkats

LOS ANGELES -- A new batch of meerkats has joined the Los Angeles Zoo, it was announced Thursday.

Four of the furry mammals came from the North Carolina Zoo and are housed in the meerkat habitat near the zoo's flamingos.

"These four youngsters scurry around the habitat, dig for food and are extremely curious about all the sights and sounds of their new habitat," the zoo said in a statement.

The fifth meerkat, Barky, was brought in from the Virginia Zoo as a companion to Chico, an older meerkat whose companion had passed away. Because the animals are highly territorial and rarely introduce new members to their gang, Chico lived at the LA Zoo as a solitary animal.

"As Chico is an older meerkat with some missing teeth and arthritis, he would not have been able to defend himself against a group. When zoo staff learned about Barky, an older male at the Virginia Zoo, the decision was made to bring Barky to Los Angeles as a companion for Chico. Barky and Chico live in the Children's Zoo, where a special exhibit has been prepared for the two older animals with nest boxes and easier climbing opportunities," the zoo said in a statement.

"As one of our older residents, Chico requires some special care, so we knew introducing him to a group probably wasn't in his best interest. We were happy to work with the Virginia Zoo to provide a companion animal for him. Now we have two mobs and it's a great opportunity for our visitors to observe meerkats," said states zoo director John Lewis.

Native to southern Africa, meerkats inhabit complex systems of burrows in dry, open country. They either dig these burrows themselves or they acquire and share them with African ground squirrels or yellow mongooses.

Meerkats live in matriarchal groups called mobs. These mobs are comprised of an alpha mating pair, their pups and other adults. Each member has a special role. Non-alpha females baby-sit pups, protecting and nourishing them. Sentries stand on high ground and scan the surrounding area for predators while the rest of the mob forages for food. Teachers or mentors train weaned pups how to hunt, forage and protect themselves. Meerkats are omnivorous. Their diet consists of insects, larvae, ground-nesting birds, eggs, centipedes, small rodents, reptiles and scorpions.

The Los Angeles Zoo and Botanical Gardens is located in Griffith Park at the junction of the 134 and 5 freeways. Admission is $12 for adults and $7 for children (ages 2 to 12). The Zoo is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. For information, call 323-644-4200 or visit www.lazoo.org. (Source: Olsen Ebright, NBCLosAngeles.com)

Carolina Canines have new therapy program

WILMINGTON, NC (WECT) - Carolina Canines have developed a new program to teach pets and their owners how to interact with patients in nursing homes, hospitals and schools.

Delta Mae, a 6-year-old Airedale Terrier, is one of the first dogs to go through the new program.

"We teach the handler how to get your dog over a new situation," said program founder Rick Hairston. "We are asking dogs to go into hospitals, nursing homes, and schools that are not normal to their environment."

Right now, 14 dogs are taking part in the program and when they are finished they will be part of a Carolina Canine's Animal Therapy Team.

Delta Mae will be one of the first dogs to visit patients at the Lower Cape Fear Hospice Center, but won't be the last to bring a smile to someone's face.

"People tell things to a dog that they wouldn't tell a person," said Hairston. "The dogs will let them start opening up and telling them about their problems they are having with things going on. Once the wound is open, they have the opportunity to close it and heal." There will be various training sessions throughout the year, the next being in April. (Source: by Max Winitz, Carolina Canines)

FIRST AID: A Pet Owner’s Guide

BREATHING PROBLEMS. In an emergency, it is essential to ensure that your pet is not having any problems breathing. If it appears that your pet is having difficulty, this requires immediate veterinary attention to ensure that the airway is not obstructed.

FRACTURES. Broken bones need immediate veterinary attention.

TRANSPORTING INJURED ANIMALS. Injured animals are likely to be in pain. Small dogs and cats should be transported in a suitable pet carrier while larger animals can be placed on a stretcher made of a bed sheet if they are not able to walk. Keep animals warm and as comfortable as you can while you are transporting them to your veterinarian or nearest emergency veterinary facility.

No Hangups: New Collar Protects Dogs

To counter concern over a snagged collar hurting his dog, Rick Fredland began to develop his own brand of collars made of retractable, rock climbing materials. Now, he is marketing his creation on a nationwide level. (Photo Courtesy of Tazlab.com)

BEND, Ore. -- Rick Fredland was worried that his dog might one day hurt himself by snagging his collar.

A dog belonging to a friend accidentally hung itself after its traditional collar was snagged on a fence, and Fredland had heard countless other similar stories.

Fredland -- who has lived with his wife, Noelle, in Bend for two years -- owned his own rock climbing store in Southern California. So he began using climbing materials to work on a dog collar that was safer.

"We had no intention of being in the pet industry," Fredland said. "We just heard all these horror stories and started trying all these safety products, and they didn't really work. We had a climbing shop in L.A., and I started taking webbing home and elastic and I started sewing collars for our dog."

And Fredland's company, Tazlab (named after Fredland's now 8-year-old Australian Shepherd, Tasman), was born.

He fitted the collars with an elastic piece that stretches the collar if a dog gets its collar stuck. That allows the dog to slide free of the collar without choking.

With the help of a friend, Fredland and his wife decided to take the collar to market.

"And finally I was like, 'There has to be a market for this,' " Fredland said. "I got a friend involved who was really good at colors, and was a designer by trade, and he made them pretty. And we just went into business."

Turns out, there are a lot of dog owners that share Fredland's original concern.

Now, the collars come in eight colors and more than a dozen sizes at a retail price of around $15 per collar.

From a small warehouse in southeast Bend, Tazlab has expanded its product offerings to include safety leashes and other dog-related products, which are mostly manufactured in China to save cost.

Tazlab is currently shopping for a U.S.-based company to manufacture his wares that, at the same time, will allow Tazlab to keep its prices competitive, Fredland says.

Tazlab's growth has been undeniable. The company, which wholesales its products to mostly independent retailers and sells direct through its Web site, has more than doubled its sales from January 2008 to the same month in 2009, Fredland says.

"They have really been getting more of a national market," said Amie Brown, the owner of Bend's Downtown Doggie, which sells Tazlab's entire line of products.

Brown says Tazlab's safety collar, meant to be a quick release, is far different than most safety collars that break away when enough pressure is applied.

"They really have a unique product as far as the construction of it," Brown said. "Of course, there's thousands of companies and probably I only deal with 2 percent of them. But I haven't seen another product like that."

Tazlab has expanded beyond safety products.

The company's hottest item is a silicon travel dog bowl that at first glance looks like a traditional bowl. But the difference is the lightweight item folds up so dog owners can bring the dish wherever they take their pooch.

"We sell those like crazy," Brown said. "People just love it, even if they aren't planning to travel. They just think it is a cool bowl."

Tazlab's growth has come at a time of economic upheaval. He hopes to add an employee or two this year.

But Fredland does not feel the company -- which has one employee beyond the owner -- has passed the point where it will safely navigate through the turmoil.

Still, he is hopeful.

He said orders from independent stores have definitely slowed down, but "there is so much room for us to increase our presence that we can still grow -- even if our existing accounts are slower."

Fredland, a former customer service trainer for Patagonia, has borrowed much of his business philosophy from the well-regarded outdoor clothier, including a focus on customer service.

And Fredland has his eyes on the future.

For instance, after years of resisting, Fredland is planning to make his safety collars adjustable, so a retailer won't have to carry more than a dozen sizes.

Tazlab's next product will be a doggie bag, similar to a diaper bag for dogs, that pet owners can stow everything a dog on the go could need. That includes the silicon doggie dish, which is included in the bag.

And his intention is to expand distribution this year.

Marine turtles: Here today, gone tomorrow

Marine turtles are one of the longest-lived creatures Earth has ever known. Individual turtles can survive for centuries, bearing silent witness to epic swaths of human swagger. These air-breathing reptiles live their long legendary lives mostly in the sea.

But why there is so much ado about marine turtles these days? Locally known as "pawikan," they are hunted for meat and leather; their eggs are taken for food and aphrodisiacs. Their nesting sites go for development. They are ground up by dredges, run over by pleasure boats, poisoned by pollution, strangled by trash, and drowned by fishline and net.

Of the eight species of marine turtles known to man, five of them can be found in the Philippines. These are the Green Sea (known in the science world as Chelonia mydas), Hawksbill ('Eretmochelys imbricate'), Loggerhead ('Caretta caretta'), Olive Ridley ('Lepidochelys olivacea'), and Leatherback

('Dermocheyls coriacea'). The three others are the Kemp's Ridley ('Lepidochelys kempi'), Flatback ('Chelonia depressa'), and Black Sea ('Chelonia agassizi')

Unfortunately, all eight species are listed under the Appendix I of the Convention on International Trade of Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), which means the trade of these species and subspecies is strictly "prohibited except for educational, scientific or research and study purposes."

The Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources (IUCN) has also classified the eight species as endangered. This is so because "their populations are in danger of extinction and whose survival is unlikely if the causal factors continue to operate."

Despite sincere efforts by the government and environmentalists to prevent the further decimation of the marine turtle population, the gathering of turtle eggs and trading of stuffed turtles in souvenir shops remain unabated.

"If you have bought a stuffed turtle in one of those souvenir shops, you have unwittingly contributed to the extermination of an endangered Philippine wildlife species," observed a Filipino environmentalist. "Conservation of marine turtles should be the concern of all Filipinos. As a citizen, you can do your part in discouraging the sale collection, or the killing of sea turtles by not buying these or products from turtles," he added.

The Haribon Foundation for the Conservation of Natural Resources warns, "Unless we seriously take on the task of protecting the much endangered marine turtles, these ancient creatures will soon be gone (from our waters)."

Most of the marine turtles in the Philippines are found in Baguan, Taganak, Lihiman, Boan, Langaan, and the Great Bakkungan, which are part of the so-called Turtle Islands. These islands used to be a favorite weekend destination of British excursionists and other nationals from North Borneo (now Sabah).

But they can also be found in other parts of the country. The Green Sea turtles have been sighted as far north as the Fuga Islands in Cagayan, and in the Southwest in Bancuran, Palawan.

The Hawksbill turtles inhabit the Celebes Sea, the Cuyo island group of Palawan, neighboring towns of Jolo, Cotabato, and Sitangkai in Tawi-Tawi, as well as in Sablayan in Occidental Mindoro and the open waters of Sulu Sea. The Olive Ridley turtles have been seen by fishermen in the shallow coastal waters of Paluan, Occidental Mindoro.

To save the marine turtles from disappearing in the Philippine waters, the government initiated the Pawikan Conservation Project (PCP), an implementing arm of the Protected Areas and Wildlife Bureau of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources. It manages and coordinates both the marine turtles and dugong (another endangered marine mammal) conservation efforts of the government and private sector.

The project was created by the late Ferdinand Marcos through Executive Order No. 54 and was known then as Task Force Pawikan. Its main objective: was "to conduct a nationwide program to conserve marine turtles, a task that involves the protection and propagation of the animals."

To help propagate marine turtle species, the PCP established sanctuaries in areas where the endangered species abound. Hatcheries have been set up in these areas. The main hatcheries are in Turtle Islands.

A couple of years go, the government passed Republic Act 9147 or the Wildlife Act that mandates, among others, putting a stop to the collection of eggs from the populated Turtle Islands.

In other parts of the country, government officials are doing their best to save the pawikan from extinction. In the coastal village of Maitum, Sarangani marine turtles are given the chance to multiply.

Visitors may not find the sand parcel under the coconut trees and enclosed by a rectangular black fine-meshed net dotted by rounded green plastic sheet attractive at all. But ask Danny C. Dequiña, and he will tell you: "Below the sand enclosed by the net sometimes are hundreds of turtle eggs for hatching," said the hatchery caretaker.

Based on experience, Dequiña pointed out that hatching percentage of the facility stood at 60 percent due to the shadow of the coconut trees. Some 3,000 turtle hatchlings and 100 mature turtles have been released to the ocean since 2003, his record showed.

Hawksbill, Olive Ridley and Green Sea turtles are among the species that have made the Sarangani shorelines as their egg-laying sanctuary. "They have been coming at this coastal village to lay eggs as far as I could remember," said Jerry Bascuña, the municipal environment and natural resources officer. "It is maybe because their mothers also lay them here."

If left alone, marine turtles would survive several centuries. In March 2006, a giant tortoise said to be as old as 250 years died in a Calcutta zoo, having been taken to India by British sailors, records suggest, during the reign of King George II. Three months later, newspapers around the world noted the passing of Harriet, a Galapagos tortoise that died in the Australia Zoo at age 176 - 171 years after Charles Darwin "plucked her from her equatorial home."

Behind such biblical longevity is the marine turtle's stubborn refusal to senesce - to grow old. Don't be fooled by the wrinkles, the halting gait and the rheumy gaze. Researchers lately have been astonished to discover that in contrast to nearly every other animal studied, a turtle's organs do not gradually break down or become less efficient over time. But the question remains: Will there be marine turtles in the next century?

(Source: Henrylito D. Tacio, Environmental Media Alliance Worldwide)

Vet Visits In A Tough Economy

The nationwide economic crisis is taking a toll on spending.

Families are making sacrifices on many items - but what about pet care?
According to doctor Zsigmond Szanto -- there is an estimation that office visits to the veterinarian have seen a decrease by 5 to 20 across the country.
But locally - he says they can't tell a difference and have not seen the effects so far compared to other cities.

Szanto says, “We do see about the same number of office visits, wellness exams, surgical care about the same, we have cancer treatments going on regardless of the economy.”
He hasn't seen a change in pet owners opting out of more expensive procedures for their pets.

And they are seeing more pets adopted by families.
Szanto says, “Children have their own pets, have to make a move for whatever reason, job loss or financial hardships and mom and dad will take care of their pet.”
Szanto says that some experts recommend setting up a pet’s savings account and there is also something called pet insurance.

Szanto says, “It is a good idea to look into to see what the family needs as far as their pets' needs, talk to the companies, talk to them about what they recommend and ultimately make a financial decision on it.” (Source: By Brittany Cooper, KMVT News)

Carolina Canines strengthens therapy program

Carolina Canines, a Wilmington-based nonprofit that provides service dogs for people with

Staff photo by Allison Breiner Paws for Reading volunteers Gwyn Scheidt and Gus help third-grader Ann with her reading skills on Tuesday, Feb. 17, at Wrightsboro Elementary School.

disabilities, is stepping up its animal therapy training program with a six-week course developed by executive director Rick Hairston.

The mission of the Carolina Canines for Therapy program is to improve the quality of life for people through animal visitation. Participants with pets who have completed basic obedience courses can enroll in the preparation course, which provides training for volunteering in hospitals, schools and special-care facilities.

Currently, Carolina Canines’ animal therapy program volunteers contribute 1,000 hours of time in the community each year for approximately 30 local facilities, including New Hanover Regional Medical Center, Lower Cape Fear Hospice and LifeCare Center and Hermitage House, as well as New Hanover County Schools.

Carolina Canines has provided animal therapy training for its volunteers since 2002 using a curriculum provided by the Delta Society.

“With the curriculum we’ve used in the past with Staff photo by Allison Breiner
Paws for Reading volunteers Gwyn Scheidt and Gus help third-grader Ann with her reading skills on Tuesday, Feb. 17, at Wrightsboro Elementary School.

Delta Society, hands-on training wasn’t required,” Hairston said. “We had provided that for a lot of years on our own, but it wasn’t something Delta required. We wanted to take it a notch up, so that the dogs goi