Author: Just-Do-Something

Another Reason Not to Smoke

Animal Advocacy Blog Picture Janet Bovitz Sandefur just-do-something.org

 

Ten years ago, Shirley Worthington rushed Tigger to the vet when the dog’s mouth started bleeding. When she was told he had cancer, she knew to blame her heavy smoking, an addiction she couldn’t kick until after her pet died.

Secondhand smoke can cause lung and nasal cancer in dogs, malignant lymphoma in cats and allergy and respiratory problems in both animals, according to studies done at Tufts University’s School of Veterinary Medicine in Massachusetts, Colorado State University and other schools.

The number of pets that die each year from tobacco exposure isn’t available, but vets know from lab tests and office visits that inhaling smoke causes allergic reactions, inflammation and nasal and pulmonary cancers in pets, said Dr. Kerri Marshall, the chief veterinary officer for Trupanion pet insurance.

Despite Worthington’s certainty about the cause of her dog’s death, more research needs to be done before veterinarians can definitively say whether a dog’s cancer was caused by secondhand smoke or something else, said Dr. Liz Rozanski, whose research at Tufts College focuses on respiratory function in small animals.

Worthington, 52, of Brooklyn, New York, said she was a teenager when she started smoking and she had always smoked around Tigger, who was 8 when he died in 2004. A year later, Worthington, her mom and sister all quit in honor of the bichon frise.

Then, in 2007, Worthington’s mom died while suffering from cancer.

“Cigarettes took my mother,” she said. “And they took my dog.”

Pets aren’t mentioned in this year’s surgeon general’s report, but in 2006, it said secondhand smoke puts animals at risk. The Legacy Foundation, our nation’s largest nonprofit public health charity, encouraged smokers to quit for the sake of their pets, and the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals urged making homes with pets smoke-free.

It’s even more important to safeguard cats, which are more susceptible to tobacco smoke than dogs.

Lymphoma is one of the leading causes of feline death. The Tufts research showed that repeated exposure to smoke doubled a cat’s chances of getting the cancer and living with a smoker for more than five years increased the risk fourfold. It can also cause a fatal mouth cancer.

Tobacco companies acknowledge the risks of smoking in people but haven’t taken the same stance with dogs and cats. Philip Morris USA says on its website that it believes cigarettes cause diseases and aggravates others in non-smokers and that the problems warrant warnings.

But “we haven’t taken a stand on the potential impact on pets,” said David Sylvia, a spokesman for Altria Group Inc., the parent company of Philip Morris.

Symptoms of cancer in animals include coughing, trouble eating or breathing, drooling, weight loss, vomiting, nasal discharge, bleeding and sneezing. Cancer kills more dogs and cats than any other disease, according to Denver-based Morris Animal Foundation, which has been funding pet cancer research since 1962.

In addition, the recent surge in the use of electronic cigarettes has raised questions about their impact on pets. The greatest danger is the trash, where dogs can find nicotine cartridges from e-cigarettes, said Rozanski, the Tufts veterinarian.

“You wouldn’t think dogs would eat such things, but they do,” she said.

Do YOU smoke?  We’d like to hear what steps you take to prevent your pet(s) from being around secondhand smoke. Your tips may inspire another smoker to do the same – and that’s helping to save a four-legged life!

Animal Advocacy just-do-something.org logo Janet Bovitz Sandefur just-do-something.org

 

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Guest Blogger, Eleanor Hunt (Founder of Releasefoundation.co.uk)

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Wild animals captured and made to perform circus tricks.

Dogs against dogs and cockerels against cockerels; forced to fight to the death.

Horses and dogs raced until they are worn out; their monetary value gone.

All of this in the name of entertainment.

These examples are but a few of the countless exploitive practices that have all been classified by many as ‘entertainment’. Release is a non-profit foundation, which campaigns to raise awareness around the suffering of animals used in entertainment. Its goal is to educate the public about the horrors that animals suffer for the pleasure of humans and to encourage people to boycott any industries that use animals for entertainment. Our aim is to live in a world where animals no longer suffer at the hands of humans and where our pleasure comes secondary to their pain.

A polar bear has one million times less space in a zoo than it does in the wild.

Through the use of Twitter, Facebook, websites, leaflets, stickers and posters, Release is spreading the word. Rather than visiting the zoo, why not visit a local ecology centre? Or the Natural History museum? Or watch a wildlife documentary? These are all far more educational than watching no-longer-wild animals pacing and rocking behind walls of glass and bars. How about donating money to conservation? Or adopting an animal? Protecting animals in their natural habitat is, of course, far more beneficial to their species overall. Attend circuses with only human performers; bet on sports with only human participants; watch boxing or UCF; or go scuba diving to witness sea-life. There are many forms of enjoyable entertainment which do not require animal participants and there are plenty of peaceful and non-detrimental ways to interact with and learn about animals.

In marine parks, many orcas do not live past the age of ten, yet in the wild they can live for decades.

We believe that if the majority of people become aware of the abuse that goes on, they will no longer be willing to support and perpetuate it. Of course there are those who are fully aware of the abuse. Those who participate in and profit from the practices are unwilling to recognise the suffering, since they will then be out of pocket. However, we believe that the majority of people see past profit. Their compassion triumphs over greed. These are the people we need to stand up and speak out against these practices. These are the people we need to give their voice to the voiceless.

These are the people that have the power to Release the animals from their suffering.

Spread the word.

Eleanor Hunt is the Founder of http://www.releasefoundation.co.uk/
Tweet with them via @CampaignRelease
Animal Advocacy Blog Picture Janet Bovitz Sandefur just-do-something.org

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Search and rescue dogs: the unknown heroes of 9/11

Search dogs help find victims at Ground Zero

In the immediate days that followed the attack in New York on September 11, 2001, more than 300 search and rescue dogs (SAR) scoured Ground Zero for survivors. They were the unknown heroes of 9/11. Many, if not all, have died by now, 13 years later.

Let’s honor them on the anniversary of the tragedy as a reminder that we should cherish man’s best friend. The dogs were an integral part of the rescue teams. Trained dogs are capable of digging into small areas inaccessible to  workers, and have an acute sense of smell to lead them to survivors. Not only they saved lives, they later served to find items such as jewelry that could be returned to victims’ families or be used in the investigation of the casualties.

Dogs search for corpses in the rubble of Ground Zero.

Genelle Guzman-McMillan was working in her office in the World Trade Center on September 11. After hearing a terrible noise, she raced down the stairs, but the building collapsed around her. Twenty-seven hours later, she would be the final living person rescued from the rubble at Ground Zero. She was not found by a human equipped with special gear. She was saved by a dog.

911 terrorist attack New York. Rescue dogs.

Still more canines served as therapy dogs, helping survivors cope with their emotional trauma. And not only in the aftermath of 9/11 but also after the Boston Marathon, they brought peace to the victims.

A golden retriever looks for victims at Ground Zero.

Another poignant story is that of Michael Hingson, a blind World Trade Center employee who was led safely out of the building by his canine companion, a yellow Labrador retriever named Roselle.

“I have the solemn obligation to inform you that my hero guide dog, Roselle, who was with me in the World Trade Center on September 11, 2001, passed away, Sunday, June 26, 2011 at 8:52 PM. I am sad, of course, because I will miss Roselle so very much, more than any of my other guide dogs. I write with joy because Roselle is in a better place, no longer feeling pain, while I get to have so many fond memories of her,” wrote Michael Hingson in his blog in honor of Roselle.

Dog searches for victims after the 9/11 attacks.

Most of the search and rescue dogs were Labradors or Golden Retrievers on 9/11. German shepherds are a popular SAR breed — they’re typically smart, obedient and agile, and their double-layered coat insulates against severe weather conditions. Hunting and herding dogs like Labrador and golden retrievers and border collies tend to be good at SAR work, too, because they have a very strong prey drive. In urban disasters like the one on 9/11, where people are trapped beneath precarious piles of debris, a dog’s strength, confidence and agility are key. Even more important, though, is obedience: An out-of-control dog is a liability in search situations. This is where SAR training is key.

At its most basic, the job of a SAR dog has two components: Find the origin of a human scent and let the handler know where it is. Experts estimate that a single SAR dog can accomplish the work of 20 to 30 human searchers. It’s not just about smell, either — dogs’ superior hearing and night vision also come into play. Time is always an issue in search and rescue. In an avalanche situation, for instance, approximately 90 percent of victims are alive 15 minutes after burial; 35 minutes after burial, only 30 percent of victims are alive.

Search and rescue dog helps firefighters search for victims at Ground Zero.

Experts estimate that a single SAR dog can accomplish the work of 20 to 30 human searchers. It’s not just about smell, either — dogs’ superior hearing and night vision also come into play. Time is always an issue in search and rescue. In an avalanche situation, for instance, approximately 90 percent of victims are alive 15 minutes after burial; 35 minutes after burial, only 30 percent of victims are alive.

911 terrorist attack New York. Rescue dogs.

Not all SAR dogs perform the same type of search. There are tracking (or trailing) dogs, and others are air-scent (or area-search) dogs. Air-scenters might specialize in a particular type of search, such as: cadaver, water, avalanche, urban disasters, wilderness or evidence/article.

SEE ALSO: Photo Series Captures The Quiet Dignity Of Search And Rescue Dogs That Served During 9/11

In major disasters like the 1995 Oklahoma City bombing, the collapse of the World Trade Center in 2001 and the 2005 earthquake in Pakistan, air-scent dogs in all specialty areas assisted in the search for survivors. This actually led to problems for some of the dogs, because SAR dogs trained to find living people can become discouraged when they find only dead bodies. The dogs understand that live finds are preferable, partly due to their training, partly due to the reactions of their handler and partly because live people can usually give some form of feedback — and the dogs crave feedback. At Oklahoma City and Ground Zero, handlers and firefighters hid in the rubble to give the dogs a living person to find so they could feel successful and get their reward.

Meet The Dog Heros of 9/11 – video style

Speaking of these dogs: Love is not enough.

– Rosana Ubanell for voxxi.com.  Rosana is a journalist and a writer. Since 2000, she has been the Assignment Editor of American Airlines’ Spanish-language magazine Nexos. In 2011 she released her first novel Volver a Morir, a Spanish-language detective novel based in the city of Miami.

 Animal Advocacy just-do-something.org logo Janet Bovitz Sandefur just-do-something.org
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19 Common Plants Harmful to Animals

Below are 19 of the most common indoor plants that could harm your animals. Many of these plants are given as gifts during the holidays, so please pay close attention to any that you might receive before exposing your animals to them. Also note that these photos depict only one variety of the plants listed and may not represent the entire species in terms of color, detail, etc.

If your dog or cat has nibbled on a plant and you have any questions or concerns, you need to contact your animal’s veterinarian or the Pet Poison Hotline at 1-800-213-6680.

1. Aloe Vera: Although it’s medicinal for humans, don’t let companion animals eat it. It can cause gastrointestinal upset, including diarrhea.

Aloe Vera

2. Amaryllis: This plant can be very enticing to dogs and cats, and it is frequently given as a gift during the holidays. It can cause diarrhea, abdominal pain, vomiting, depression, and tremors.

Amaryllis

3. Azalea, Rhododendron (Ericaceous): Also frequently given as a gift, these beautiful plants, if ingested, can cause cardiovascular collapse, which can be fatal. They contain acetylandromedol, which can lead to excessive salivation, weakness, depression, drooling, and vomiting. Comas, heart failure, and weakness can also result.

Pink Azalea

4. Calla Lilly: This is another favorite during Easter, but it’s very deadly. It can cause upset stomach, oral irritation, asphyxiation, tremors, seizures, loss of balance, and even death.

Calla Lily

5. Caladium: This beautiful foliage plant comes in a variety of colors. It can cause upset stomach, oral irritation, asphyxiation, tremors, seizures, loss of balance, and even death.

Caladium x hortulanum

6. Castor Bean (Ricinus communis): Keep this enticing 3-inch-high plant out of reach! If it’s ingested, animals can suffer from drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, loss of appetite, and excessive thirst. Severe poisoning can result in tremors, seizures, comas, and death.

Ricinus communis (castor oil plant)

7.  Chrysanthemum, commonly known as “Mums” (Compositae): The flowers of mums are toxic. If ingested, they can cause drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, depression, and loss of coordination. Mums can also cause dermatitis.

Chrysanthemum

8. Cyclamen (Cyclamine): If ingested, cyclamen can produce intense vomiting, which can be fatal. It can also cause skin irritation.

Cyclamen Hederifolium

9. English Ivy (Hedera helix): Ivy is very popular during the holidays. Many people use it to create indoor Christmas wreaths. If consumed, it can produce serious gastrointestinal problems, which can include vomiting, pain, diarrhea, and excessive salivation.

2008-06-24 Hedera helix 2

10. Kalanchoe (succulent flowering plants): If ingested, the toxins of these plants affect the heart and alter its rhythm and rate. They can also cause stomach irritability.

Kalanchoe arborescens 12

11. Lilies (Lilium), all types, including Easter lily (Lilium longiflorum), tiger lily (Lilium tigrinum), rubrum lily (Lilium speciosum), Japanese show lily (Lilium lancifolium), and some species of day lily (Hemerocallis species): All parts of lilies are toxic to cats. If eaten, they will cause kidney failure. The first signs of exposure are vomiting, lethargy, and loss of appetite. Many cat guardians do not see these signs as unusual and do not seek immediate attention. Kidney failure will occur within 24 to 72 hours after ingestion. Kidney failure symptoms include excessive thirst, increased urination, lethargy, vomiting, lack of appetite, and dehydration.

12. Mistletoe (Phoradendron species): If your animal consumes even one or two berries, it can be fatal. Be safe and keep this plant out of reach. Better yet, don’t bring it into your home at all. Artificial mistletoe is a beautiful substitute.

Mistletoe

13. Peace Lily (aka “Mauna Loa Peace Lily”): If ingested by your animal companions, peace lilies can cause oral irritation, which includes drooling, difficulty swallowing, vomiting, burning, and irritation of the mouth, lips, and tongue.

Easter Lily

14. Philodendron: These plants are very popular because they are so easy to grow. Symptoms from ingestion include a swollen mouth, a painful tongue, and sore lips.

philodendrum

15. Poinsettias: These are the most popular plants to use for display during the Christmas season. They are available in pink, white, or red. Although most people think that they are the most toxic indoor plant, it would actually require ingestion of a large amount of one to produce clinical signs in your dog or cat. However, do not take any chances. Keep them out of reach. Symptoms could include vomiting, anorexia, and depression. Poinsettias also contain milky sap that can cause skin irritation.

pointsettias

16. Pothos (Araceae family): Pothos is a very popular indoor plant. If consumed, it can cause swelling of oral tissues, vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach irritation.

pothos

17. Sago Palm (Cycas revoluta): Although all parts of the sago palm are toxic, the seeds contain the largest amount of poison. They can cause seizures, depression, vomiting, diarrhea, and liver failure.

Sago Palm

18. Schefflera, commonly known as “Umbrella Plant”: Schefflera can cause vomiting, kidney problems, tremors, and heart and respiratory problems. Scheffleras can also cause oral irritation, such as difficulty swallowing, drooling, and burning of the mouth, lips, and tongue.

Schefflera arboricola 'Hong_Kong'

19. Tulip/Jonquil/Narcissus Bulbs: Many people force paper white bulbs to bloom during the holidays by planting them indoors. They can cause serious stomach problems, hyperactivity, tremors, depression, irregular heartbeat, weakness, loss of appetite, and cardiac abnormalities.

Jonquil

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Guest Blogger, Oana Sava (Romania)

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Ms. Sava and I connected via Twitter.  Because she is such a busy lady, and because she wanted to Guest Blog on our website, she suggested that I copy the information from her website, in her own words, and share them, here.

Sava’s Safe Haven non-governmental, non-profit Animal Welfare association was founded by Oana Sava since 2012, to end the suffering of dozens of animals from streets of Romania.

Even before building this shelter, the founder of refuge endeavored to help strays animals. Oana Sava, has fought to help the starve and ill dogs from streets offering them food , medical care and a place in her house.  

On 05th November  2012 , thanks the friends and animal lovers from everywhere, we was able to to put basis of a refuge.   

A field full of weeds was purchased in order to build a shelter. In just one week after land acquisition, everything took shape, being able to save some of the strays giving them a warmer winter, one full of love.   

Daily there have been improvements and new things to offer to the dogs a wonderful life and comfort in the refuge.  Step by step, refuge Sava’s Safe Haven has grown to host about 200 dogs , some cats and many birds.    The refuge was built thanks the friends that helped, there was no help from authorities or other organisations. And the charity is still working thanks donations!

The dogs for that refuge are being well treated getting more confident with people and other animals.They learn to be friendly and to share, we have 2 playgrounds specially designed to invite the dogs to play and run in safe.

No matter how hard it is to take care of a large number of animals their joy is above all . 

Many of these animals find their own home making this refuge proud , because is nothing more beautiful than to see your rescued dog happy in his own home . 

A most proud thing is to see one of Sava’s rescued dog winning in competitions for agility and beauty.  

In this moment Sava’s Safe Haven has volunteers around the World that are proud to support this special charity. Thanks to them,  Sava’s Safe Haven grown and still is growing saving more and more animals from agony! 

Please take a moment to read more about Sava’s Safe Haven.  Sharing their endeavors can help.

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5 Reasons Why Everyone Should *ADOPT* A Shelter Pet

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The glitz, glamour and prestige of dog shows and the glossy ads in dog and cat magazines suggest that buying a purebred pet from a store or breeder is the best way to go. Unfortunately, the pet industry has a dark side, and while some respectable breeders sell healthy and beautiful animals, many others are abusive. And even the healthiest baby animals are too challenging and expensive to fit some owners’ schedules and abilities.

The good news is, you can choose from a wide selection of animals at your local shelter to find your ideal pet without supporting bad breeding practices or taking on a responsibility and expense you’re not ready to handle. People give up pets for a variety of reasons including divorce, financial problems and the owner’s illness, none of which have anything to do with the pet’s temperament and health. Whether you’d prefer a mixed breed or purebred, a young pup or an elder dog, a shelter near you probably has the companion you’re looking for. Plus, when people ask you where you got such a nice pet, you can proudly say you rescued them!

1. Save a Life!

We’ll start with the basics. While the no-kill movement is gaining momentum nationwide, 2.7 million (MILLION) dogs and cats are euthanized (THAT’S KILLED) in U.S. shelters every year because more people surrender their pets than adopt from a shelter and limited resources force shelter staff to make difficult decisions.

Sadly, Pit Bulls make up nearly half of the dogs in shelters, so adopting one would be a great kindness. But if that’s not your preference, it won’t take long for the pet of your dreams to come in. After all, those surrendered pets have to come from somewhere, and that includes “impulse buys” from breeders and stores where most people purchase pets. So if you really love purebreds, it makes more sense to check the shelter first and save one’s life.

2. Avoid Housebreaking Headaches!

No matter how neat or messy your house is, no one wants to live in or clean up animal filth. It takes a lot of time and patience to train an animal to ask to go out or use a litter box, and in the meantime smelly and disgusting accidents are inevitable. This training period can’t be avoided with a new puppy or kitten, but many shelter pets have already been housebroken (shelter staff will be able to indicate which ones). This includes young animals who still have a full lifespan ahead of them.

3. Find the Right Companion for Your Lifestyle!

Everyone should be able to benefit from a pet’s companionship and stress-relieving benefits. Still, young dogs need a lot of training and exercise, which is a challenge for any owner and practically incompatible with the lifestyles of seniors and busy professionals. Luckily, shelters have an abundance of older dogs who already know basic commands, have lower energy levels and will behave well without constant monitoring.

4. Save Money!

New pets from reputable breeders can cost thousands of dollars. Even the worst breeders charge a lot because they’re only after the easy money. Friends and family members might give unwanted animals away for free, but that leaves you with expensive costs including spay/neuter, vaccination and microchipping fees.

Most shelters charge a modest fee to adopt a pet, and this typically includes sterilization and veterinary care.  If you adopt a mixed breed, you’ll save money in the long term, too, because hybrids tend to be hardier than purebreds. All in all, it’s a better bargain than any of the alternatives.

5. Don’t Support Unethical Breeding!

Some breeders truly love their animals and care about producing the healthiest and best-tempered pets. When you purchase a pet from a store, however, there’s no way to tell where it came from. Bad breeders are like a cancer, advertising their animals everywhere from pet magazines to Craigslist to newspapers, making false claims,  offering no support for buyers after the purchase, and most importantly NOT taking care of the dogs and litters they are breeding. Why take a chance supporting an abusive scam artist who abuses and neglects their animals to make a buck, when you could rescue a pet from a supportive, caring shelter instead?

Support a shelter, save a life!

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Guest Blogger, Daphne Holmes (Writer)

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Cruelty Against Animals Shames Humanity

Genesis 1:26 – And God said, Let us make man in our image, after our likeness: and let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over the cattle, and over all the earth, and over every creeping thing that creepeth upon the earth.

We’re good, but we could be a lot better

There are many things for which we humans can be rightfully proud of ourselves. We have made remarkable discoveries, and have learned how to live longer and with less hardship than our ancestors could have ever imagined. But there are also areas of our lives for which we have individually and collectively brought shame upon ourselves, not the least of which is our treatment of our fellow beings, both human and non-human.

How often do we see another being who is starving, frightened, sick, or suffering from abuse by another, and we turn aside and go about our own business without giving it a second thought?

The sad fact is that we simply fail to empathize with the suffering of animals. Perhaps we are afraid that by getting too close to them, that suffering, and that abuse, will somehow rub off on us.

Perhaps we’re afraid of getting hurt ourselves if we try to intercede when we witness another person venting their rage. What if that frightened dog bites me? What if that crying cat is diseased? So we close our eyes and walk away, eager to set aside any awareness of the pain.

Maybe we even tell ourselves that the victim is “just an animal,” and doesn’t experience suffering the way humans do. It is a comforting lie we tell ourselves, but it is a lie, all the same.

And at our core, we know it is a lie, but we convince ourselves to avoid the shame that we feel.

For unwanted animals, the odds aren’t good at all. Every year, millions of dogs, cats, horses, donkeys, and other animals are put to death for no better reason than that there was nobody who cared enough to keep them alive. Perhaps they were puppies that didn’t behave the way their humans thought they should. Some pets are guilty only of the “crimes” of growing old or becoming inconvenient. A few of the lucky ones get turned in to humane, no-kill shelters, where they will at least get enough food to survive, enough veterinary care to ease their discomfort, and enough attention to give them hope that not all humans are uncaring and cruel.

The less lucky animals get “rescued” by animal control officers who take them to the local pound, where they will be fed and housed for a few days, until either their owners or some hopefully compassionate humans come and retrieve them, or they are at least given a quick death, and their lifeless bodies sent to a landfill somewhere.

The least fortunate victims get taken somewhere far from the only home they’ve known and dumped at the side of the road. “They’re animals. They can make it on their own.” Another lie. Most animals discarded in this way either starve to death, get hit by a car, or get torn apart by predators. The ones who do manage to survive for any length of time experience the same hunger, fear, and loneliness that we humans would feel if we were discarded by those we love.

And they inevitably fall prey to diseases and parasites that tear them down slowly and make them even easier prey. There just isn’t such a thing as a happy ending for these animals unless, by some quirk of fate, a human passes by and sees their fear and their pain, and invites the animal to come into their family. Some animals hold to the hope that such a thing can happen.

You’ve seen them at the side of the road, looking at you and wondering, “Are you here to take care of me? Please?”

Become a true steward

We humans believe that we truly do have dominion over the creatures of the earth, but we apparently forget what that actually means. It does not mean that we can use and exploit our fellow creatures. It isn’t license to vent our cruelty on them, or to deny them their needs, which aren’t really any different than our own. And it isn’t permission to just throw them away when they no longer amuse us or accessorize our lives the way we think they should. The greater part of dominion is, after all, stewardship. If we see another in dire need or suffering, our moral duty is to try to meet that need or end that suffering as best we can, not to increase it or turn aside and ignore it. But we must realize that the creatures with whom humanity has chosen to share our lives have grown to depend on us for so much, but that they have so much more that they want only to give back to us. First and foremost, we must realize that they feel joy and sadness, and kindness and cruelty, as deeply as we do. We have but to open our eyes and look into theirs, and we will know. And perhaps, one day, we will finally set aside the callousness that is our deepest shame.

Author:
Daphne Holmes contributed this guest post. She is a writer from www.arrestrecords.com (under construction – but please check out their blog page), and you can reach her at daphneholmes9@gmail.com.)

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Oh, deer!

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Fawn School 101 started for me the weekend of the July 4th holiday.

Most people celebrate 4th of July weekend in a relaxed state.  Cool drink in hand, sneakers kicked off, lounging on the deck to the smell of the grill.

Not so for this July 4th at our house!

It started out with, what we thought, was going to be a quick drive to the store for more ice.  As we turned down the street to the main road, there, in the meridian, was a teenie, tiny fawn.

Teenie Tiny Fawn did not realize what a big deal s/he was, hanging out in the middle of a busy intersection, nibbling on fallen leaves from the three ornamental crab apple trees there, seemingly without a care in the world.

Only it WAS a big deal, since s/he had decided to make that small area under the trees THE place to spend afternoons – so close to the busy road (so close), and open enough to entice sneaky coyotes after dusk.

Being such a Momma Bear when it comes to animals, after more than a few drives throughout the afternoon to the meridian to make sure no harm had come to Teenie Tiny Fawn, I wanted to call someone knowledgeable about deer to find out if we should be doing something about our newest spotted neighbor from a safety standpoint (Internet searches were too varied in their information).

I must have left over 25 messages at different numbers that afternoon. But of course, every place we called was closed in observance of the long holiday weekend.

However, never let it be said that there are advocates who don’t work ‘round the clock to ensure the safety of animals!  It was the Western New York Wildlife Service who called me back as soon as they received my message (which they checked daily, no matter what the holiday).

What were my main worries? they wanted to know.

  • Teenie Tiny Fawn was VERY tiny.
  • The meridian was next to a very busy road.
  • No matter what time we checked, we did not see Momma.

For the remainder of the weekend, our plan (per the Western New York Wildlife Service) was to make a few trips through the weekend to see if Teenie Tiny Fawn was still hanging out in the same spot, to note what time(s) s/he appeared, and to see if we could spot (from the car) Momma.  Many times, Momma will leave her fawn(s) alone for many hours per day.   But at least once every few days, if you look around, you will spot her around the area since they are never far from their young.  Usually, a fawn that is abandoned will begin bleating for its Momma after a few hours, and will continue to bleat until it becomes too tired or too dehydrated.

I was to report back on Monday.

Monday arrived and nothing had changed.  Teenie Tiny Fawn continued to hang out, alone, in the hot sun, for hours in the same spot.

Western New York Wildlife Service asked for pictures so they could estimate the condition, weight and age of Teenie Tiny Fawn, which was now nicknamed Frankie.

Animal Advocacy Blog Picture

  • It was determined that Frankie was healthy but underweight.
  • There was no way to know if Frankie was abandoned or if Momma had been hit by a car.  Although I did talk with our town’s Dead Animal Collection representative who stated that at the time we spotted Frankie, he was not notified of any dead deer that needed to be picked up – so that was good news.
  • Although Frankie seemed to be nibbling on leaves on the ground, he was still too young to properly forage for him/herself.
  • Although Frankie was mobile and alert, he was at risk of dehydration because there was not a reliable water source nearby.
  • Although Frankie was able to run, he was too small to properly defend himself against harm (ie, coyotes).
  • Frankie was very close to a very busy road.

There were discussions of capture, but usually unless the fawn is injured or in distress, this is used as a last option.  Capturing ANY animal will cause it severe anxiety, sometimes to the point of death.  And since Frankie seemed okay, and in the event Momma was around, this was not a reasonable solution.

Our new game plan was put in place:

  • Put up two large signs at each end of the meridian, letting traffic know there was a baby deer in the area.
  • Buy a bag of Calf Manna and place some in a bowl (along with a tub of water) under of the trees that Frankie was hanging around.  **Note that it is illegal to feed wild deer in a domestic setting.  In order to do this, you need specific permission from a DEC Representative and you should notify your local Animal Control.
  • Check the area every day for Momma.

Happily, once the water was put out, Frankie found and enjoyed it.  Relief that we didn’t have to worry about dehydration!

During this time, I was also put in touch with a member of the Western New York Wildlife Service who takes in abandoned fawns on her animal farm (which is DEC certified).  Virginia T. sees to their shelter and nutritional needs until they are old enough to be taken to a deer sanctuary.

After a few weeks, Frankie had vacated the meridian.  I’d like to think that s/he put on a little more weight, and found Momma or a companion herd.  We continue to see deer and fawn in our neighborhood, and it’d be nice to know that Frankie is one of them.

Virginia and I have remained in touch, and more recently, I made the trip to Virginia’s animal farm.  Virginia was waiting, with baby bottles of deer formula.  I got to feed my first fawn – who looked just like Frankie.

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And, I kept the Baby Deer signs – just in case.

Do you have a baby animal story?  We’d love to hear it.

Note:  Have you come across a baby animal?  NEVER approach a baby animal unless you can see immediate injury or danger.  Call Animal Control immediately if you have concerns or questions.  Since our local Animal Control was closed when we first spotted Frankie, I searched the Internet to see who else I could contact with my immediate questions.

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Guest Blogger, Denise Fleck (sunnydogink.com)

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Disaster Preparedness Tips To Keep Your Pets Safe

 

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Hopefully you will never experience a fire destroying your home, yet you plan ahead — install fire alarms, smoke detectors and purchase insurance. You certainly hope never to be involved in a car accident, but you have airbags and wear a seat belt (and should safely restrain your dog as well). Being prepared makes sense as we can minimize potential injury to those we love. However, most people are not prepared for a major disaster. “Be Prepared” works for the Scouts, and it’s a motto we should carry into our adult lives. Planning ahead is the best way to keep yourself and your dog safe.

At The Very Least

  1. Place a Pet Alert Sticker near you front door recording how many and what type of animals live there. If you aren‘t home when tragedy strikes, trained professionals will seek out and help your pets.
  2. Designate a Pre-Arranged Meeting Place for your family and identify several Places That Can Take Your Pets. Red Cross Shelters do not permit pets, so organizations like the Surf City Animal Response Team, United Animal Nations, American Humane Association, Noah’s Wish and the Humane Society of the United States are working hard to train communities to set-up temporary animal shelters, but it could still be days before these facilities are in place. Making arrangements ahead of time with out-of-town friends and relatives is your best bet, but have a “Plan B.” Susan Keyes, President of the Southern California Animal Response Team says, “Long-term housing and care for pets is the area we have found people to be least prepared.” Check with pet day care and boarding facilities as well as your Veterinarian to see if they will accommodate during a disaster. Compile a list of hotels where pets are welcome and set aside one credit card just for emergency use. It’s also a good idea to have cash (in bills smaller than 20s) easily accessible as ATM Machines will not be working.
  3. Stash the following for each pet in an easy-to-carry backpack or crate (that way you’ll have the carrier to evacuate in):
  • A two-week supply of food stored in an airtight container and a manual can opener if needed; water (for medium to large dogs, one gallon per day); medication. Remember to exchange these items regularly so they are fresh when needed.
  • A water-proof container with vaccination & micro-chipping records and photos of your pet with your family as proof of ownership.
  • Treats, toys, bedding, food & water dishes; Collars/harnesses and leashes; Litter, scoop & boxes for kitties; specialty items for pocket pets, birds, reptiles and amphibians; Disinfectant for cleaning crates, paper towels, flashlight with batteries, zip ties, garbage bags and a well-stocked Pet First-Aid Kit.

Where To Put It All
Even with the best laid plans, life happens, so consider storing your goods in several locations in the event they are un-retrievable when the ground shakes, the flames rise or the mud slides. Positioning items close to an outside wall in your home will allow easier access should buildings collapse and you need to rummage through rubble to get to your supplies. Also, stowing duplicate items in your car is a good idea.

Don’t Forget The Two-Legged Family Members
Stash food and other items for the humans including a battery or solar-powered radio, rubber-soled shoes and a flashlight near your bed so that you can help your pets and stay safe!

Hurricanes
The one good thing to be said about Hurricanes is that they are predictable — The National Hurricane Center tracks weather patterns and notes possible disturbances long before they pose a threat. It’s imperative that you monitor your local news channels and once a Hurricane Watch is issued, realize you have 24 – 36 hours before it hits, so do the following:

  • Keep pets indoors and easily accessible should you need to suddenly pack them up and leave. Cats can sense impending doom and often hide, so get them into a carrier early.
  • Stay tuned to news stations for evacuation routes and make sure you completely understand the plan.
  • Have at least one week’s food, water and any medications stored for your pets and prep your house for the storm (board-up windows, stow away items that can blow such as patio furniture, secure gates, etc.).

A Hurricane Warning is issued when the storm is 24 hours away or less. Complete all preparations before the rains and high winds arrive, and stay in your home only if it is safe. If you evacuate, take Fido and Fluffy with you.

Wildfires
Once underway, Wildfires can consume millions of acres and blow in changing directions. For this reason, you should plan several escape routes for you and your pets in the event the flames block your path.

  • Create a “fire break” around your home by clearing away vegetation, especially dead brush, about 30 feet from all structures.
  • Use fabric, rope or leather leashes and collars. Nylon ones melt when heated and can badly burn your pet.
  • Take all animals with you. Monitor your pets for burns and smoke inhalation. Knowing how to perform Rescue Breathing & CPR could save your dog’s life!

Earthquakes
Unlike most natural disasters, there is no advanced warning for an earthquake allowing no time for last minute precautions. In addition to covering the three steps above:

  • Never position dog runs, crates or enclosures underneath objects that could fall during a tremor.
  • Add a pair of bolt cutters to your disaster kit in case damaged cages or fencing need opening.
  • Know where to turn off the gas to your house, barn or kennels.
  • Include your pets in the family earthquake drill and make sure all family members know how to handle them realizing that a frightened pet may bite or scratch.
  • If you board your pet, make sure the facility knows of your earthquake preparedness plans.

Should an earthquake occur, confine your pets. Dogs that escape sometimes return at mealtime, but there are no guarantees! Be prepared to handle cut and burned paws, know how to splint broken bones and stop bleeding in humans and animals alike — take a Pet First-Aid Class before you wish you had.

Floods
Flooding can occur in any part of the world and can even be confined to only your home or apartment building. Every year though hundreds of thousands of people are forced to evacuate due to rising water. Slowly rising water is usually due to rivers, streams or even a pipe leak in your home. Flash floods however can hit quickly caused by heavy rain or melting snow as well as failure to a dam or reservoir.

  • Map out several evacuation routes for yourself and your four-legged family; don’t rely on only one which may be in the path of the floodwater. Head for the nearest high ground with your pets, and it is always better to err on the side of caution and evacuate early. If it is a false alarm, you and your family have practiced a meaningful drill instead of the real thing.
  • Never leave any animal behind or certainly don’t tie up an animal if flood waters threaten. You can not anticipate how high water may rise, so even birds enclosed on high perches could perish.
  • Remember that danger of disease can be an issue after a flood. Keep pets away from standing water. Have a good fresh supply of water on hand for everyone (1/2 gallon per day for small dogs; 1 gallon for larger animals) as even tap water may not be safe if contaminated water has entered the drinking supply.

Preparing for the worst may just prevent the worst from happening!

 

Denise Fleck is an award winning author and freelance writer.  After extensive training and practice, she developed her own Pet First-Aid & CPR curriculum as well as a 5 month long Animal Care course for high school students in conjunction with the Burbank Unified School District.  She has shared animal life-saving skills on CBS –TV’s The Doctors, Animal Planet and other shows. To complement her teachings, Denise created a line of Pet First-Aid Kits, posters and books for children teaching animal respect and care!  Visit www.sunnydogink.com or call (818) 951-7962

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Let’s Talk Veterinarians!

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Five ways to “vet” your veterinarian:

  1. Visit myveterinarian.com. The free AVMA tool for finding the perfect veterinarian is just a mouse click away. Here you can discover veterinarians in your area, the type of animals they treat, their hours, if they offer emergency services, and information on their staff.
  2. Ask about your veterinarian’s office operations. This includes who does procedures, how much services cost and payment options.
  3. Inquire about their experience with your particular type of pet
  4. Ask about emergency care. When your pet has acute health issues in the middle of the night, you’ll need to know where to call or go. Ask where you should go when things go wrong, and make sure you figure out how to get there BEFORE an emergency – you certainly don’t want to be driving around asking for directions in an emergency situation
  5. Talk with neighbors and other clients of the veterinarian. Selecting a veterinarian is like selecting a pediatrician. You will be the individual communicating with the veterinarian. Make certain you have a good working relationship.

Top 5 things to think of BEFORE you visit the veterinarian:

You know how it is. You have a million questions about your pet before you get to the veterinary clinic but when asked, your mind is blank. Veterinarians rely on you to be your pet’s voice. You need to keep your eyes and ears open so that you can report any changes in your pet’s behavior to the veterinarian.

Sharing information about how your pet is behaving—including eating, drinking, sleep, urinating and/or passing stool—could help make a lifesaving diagnosis.

  1. Ask about vaccinations. Vaccinations are essential to your pet’s health and should be tailored to your pet’s lifestyle. A pampered high-rise dweller that never sets foot outside won’t need the same vaccines as a mud hound forever rolling in the grass, even if they live across the street from each other.
  2. Ask about parasite prevention and control for fleas, ticks, heartworms and intestinal parasites such as roundworms, hookworms and tapeworms that is appropriate for the region of the country in which you live.
  3. Ask about proper behavior training and socialization. Many shelters report behavior problems as a primary reason people give up their pets. Your veterinarian can assist in evaluating your animal’s disposition and provide advice and tips on how to appropriately train and socialize your pet.
  4. Ask about nutrition. What type of food should you feed your pet? What serving size is appropriate? And does their age impact what you should be feeding them? If your pet is overweight and, if it is, how you can get your pet back to a healthy weight as in humans, weight control for pets is essential for good health.
  5. If you have a pet older than 7 years of age, ask about senior care. Note any changes you’ve noticed in your pet’s energy level, water intake, behavior or any lumps and bumps your pet has developed. Although many of the lumps and bumps are not problems, some of them are cause for concern. It’s best to have all of them checked out, just to make sure. Older pets are more prone to conditions such as arthritis, heart disease, dementia and other problems, and prevention and early detection of problems are essential to helping your pet live a longer, healthier life.

Do you have any other tips for readers about finding good veterinary care?  Share it with us, and we’ll share it with everyone!

 

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