Guest Blogger, Richard H. Schwartz, Ph.D.

 Before you Comment, take a moment to review our guidelines!

A Dialogue Between A Jewish Vegetarian Activist and a Rabbi

For a long time, I have been trying to start a respectful dialogue in the Jewish community. Because I have had very little success, I am presenting the fictional dialogue below. I hope that many readers will use it as the basis of similar dialogues with local rabbis, educators, and community leaders.

Jewish Vegetarian Activist: Shalom rabbi.

Rabbi: Shalom. Good to see you.

JVA: Rabbi, I have been meaning to speak to you for some time about an issue, but I have hesitated because I know how busy you are, but I think this issue is very important.

Rabbi: Well, that sounds interesting. I am never too busy to consider important issues. What do you have in mind?

JVA: I have been reading a lot recently about the impacts of our diets on our health and the environment and about Jewish teachings related to our diets. I wonder if I can discuss the issues with you and perhaps it can be put on the synagogue’s agenda for further consideration.

Rabbi: I would be happy to discuss this with you. But, I hope that you are aware that Judaism does permit the eating of meat. Some scholars feel that it is obligatory to eat meat on Shabbat and holidays.

JVA: Yes, I recognize that Judaism permits people to eat meat. Jewish vegetarians do not argue that Jews must be vegetarians. We recognize that people have a choice, but we feel that this choice should consider basic Jewish teachings and how animal-based diets and modern intensive livestock agriculture impinge on these teachings. For example, we should recognize the current and increasing tension between the permission to consume animals for human benefit and the extremely cruel treatment they now receive in preparation for such consumption on factory farms, which have become more prevalent in response to population increase and efficiency and cost concerns. With regard to eating meat on Shabbat and holidays, according to the Talmud (T. B. Pesachim 109a), since the destruction of the Temple, Jews are not required to eat meat in order to rejoice on sacred occasions. This view is reinforced in the works Reshit Chochmah and Kerem Shlomo and Rabbi Chizkiah Medini’s Sdei Chemed, which cites many classical sources on the subject. Several Israeli chief rabbis, including Shlomo Goren, late Ashkenazic Chief Rabbi of Israel, and Shear Yashuv Cohen, Ashkenazic Chief Rabbi of Haifa, have been or are vegetarians. Also, Rabbi Jonathan Sacks, Chief Rabbi of the United Kingdom is a vegetarian, as is Rabbi David Rosen, former Chief Rabbi of Ireland.

Rabbi: we also should recognize that there is much in the Torah and the Talmud about which animals are kosher and about the proper way to slaughter animals. So eating meat is certainly not foreign to Judaism.

VJA: Yes, that is certainly true. But, there is also much in the Torah and our other sacred writings that point to vegetarianism as the ideal Jewish diet. For example, as the Torah verse below indicates, God’s initial intention was that people be vegetarians.

And God said: “Behold, I have given you every herb yielding seed which is upon the face of all the earth, and every tree that has seed-yielding fruit — to you it shall be for food.” Genesis 1:29

The foremost Jewish Torah commentator, Rashi, states the following about God’s first dietary plan: “God did not permit Adam and his wife to kill a creature to eat its flesh. Only every green herb were they to all eat together.” Most Torah commentators, including Rabbi Abraham Ibn Ezra, Maimonides, Nachmanides, and Rabbi Joseph Albo, agree with Rashi.

In addition, Rabbi Abraham Isaac Hakohen Kook, first Chief Rabbi of pre-state Israel and a major Jewish 20th century writer and philosopher, believed that the messianic period would also be vegetarian. He based this on Isaiah’s powerful prophecy that “the wolf shall dwell with the lamb, … the lion shall eat straw like the ox…. and no one shall hurt nor destroy in all of God’s holy mountain… (Isaiah 11:6-9). Hence the two idea times in Jewish thought – the Garden of Eden and the messianic period – are vegetarian.

Rabbi: I have to tell you one thing that concerns me. Jews historically have had many problems with some animal rights groups, which have often opposed shechita (ritual slaughter) and advocated its abolishment. Some have even made outrageous comparisons between the Holocaust and the slaughter of animals for food.

JVA: Jews should consider switching to vegetarianism not because of the views of animal rights groups, whether they are hostile to Judaism or not, but because it is the diet most consistent with Jewish teachings. It is the Torah, not animal rights groups, which is the basis for observing how far current animal treatment has strayed from fundamental Jewish values. As Samson Raphael Hirsch stated: “Here you are faced with God’s teaching, which obliges you not only to refrain from inflicting unnecessary pain on any animal, but to help and, when you can, to lessen the pain whenever you see an animal suffering, even through no fault of yours.”

Rabbi: Another concern is with two teachings in Genesis: The Torah teaches that humans are granted dominion over animals (Genesis 1:26) and that only people are created in the Divine Image (Genesis 1:26, 5:1). I fear that vegetarians are promoting a philosophy inconsistent with these Torah teachings, hence potentially reducing the sacredness of human life and the dignity of human beings.

JVA: I think that if we explain how Judaism interprets these important verses, we can go a long way to reduce this potential problem. As you know, Jewish tradition interprets “dominion” as guardianship, or stewardship: we are called upon to be co-workers with God in improving the world. Dominion does not mean that people have the right to wantonly exploit animals, and it certainly does not permit us to breed animals and treat them as machines designed solely to meet human needs. This view is reinforced by the fact that immediately after God gave humankind dominion over animals, He prescribed vegetarian foods as the diet for humans (Genesis 1:29). While the Torah states that only human beings are created “in the Divine Image,” animals are also God’s creatures, possessing sensitivity and the capacity for feeling pain. God is concerned that they are protected and treated with compassion and justice. In fact, the Jewish sages state that to be “created in the Divine Image,” means that people have the capacity to emulate the Divine compassion for all creatures. “As God is compassionate,” they teach, “so you should be compassionate.”

Rabbi: Yes, these are good points, but some vegetarians elevate animals to a level equal to or greater than that of people. This is certainly inconsistent with Judaism.

JVA: Vegetarians’ concern for animals and their refusal to treat them cruelly does not mean that vegetarians regard animals as being equal to people. There are many reasons for being vegetarian other than consideration for animals, including concerns about human health, ecological threats, and the plight of hungry people. Because humans are capable of imagination, rationality, empathy, compassion, and moral choice, we should strive to end the unbelievably cruel conditions under which farm animals are currently raised. This is an issue of sensitivity, not an assertion of equality with the animal kingdom.

Rabbi: Another issue to be considered is that, with all the problems facing humanity today, can we devote much time to consider animals and which diets we should have?

JVA: Vegetarian diets are not beneficial only to animals. They improve human health, help conserve food and other resources, and put less strain on endangered ecosystems. In view of the many threats caused or worsened by today’s intensive livestock agriculture (such as deforestation, global climate change, and rapid species extinction), working to promote vegetarianism may be the most important action that one can take for global sustainability. In addition, a switch toward vegetarianism would reduce the epidemic of heart disease, various types of cancer, and other chronic degenerative diseases that have been strongly linked to the consumption of animal products.

Rabbi: Perhaps I am playing the devil’s advocate here, but by putting vegetarian values ahead of Jewish teachings, aren’t vegetarians, in effect, creating a new religion with values contrary to Jewish teachings.

JVA: Jewish vegetarians are not placing so-called ‘vegetarian values’ above Torah principles but are challenging the Jewish community to apply Judaism’s splendid teachings at every level of our daily lives. Vegetarians argue that Jewish teachings about treating animals with compassion, guarding our health, sharing with hungry people, protecting the environment, conserving natural resources, and seeking peace, are all best applied through vegetarian diets.

Rabbi: What about the Torah teachings about animal sacrifices and that Jews have to eat korban Pesach (the Passover sacrifice) and parts of other animal sacrifices?

JVA: The great Jewish philosopher Maimonides believed that God permitted sacrifices as a concession to the common mode of worship in Biblical times. It was felt that had Moses not instituted the sacrifices, his mission would have failed and Judaism might have disappeared. The Jewish philosopher Abarbanel reinforced Maimonides’ position by citing a midrash (rabbinic teaching) that indicates God tolerated the sacrifices because the Israelites had become accustomed to sacrifices in Egypt, but that He commanded they be offered only in one central sanctuary in order to wean the Jews from idolatrous practices. Rav Kook and others believed that in the Messianic period, human conduct will have improved to such a degree that animal sacrifices will not be necessary to atone for sins. There will only be non-animal sacrifices to express thanks to God.

Rabbi: You have correctly pointed out that Jews must treat animals with compassion. However, the restrictions of shechita minimize the pain to animals in the slaughtering process, and thus fulfill Jewish laws on proper treatment of animals.

JVA: Yes, but can we ignore the cruel treatment of animals on “factory farms” in the many months prior to slaughter. Can we ignore the force-feeding of huge amounts of grain to ducks and geese to produce foie gras, the removal of calves from their mothers shortly after birth to raise them for veal, the killing of over 250 million male chicks immediately after birth at egg-laying hatcheries in the U.S. annually, the placing of hens in cages so small that they can’t raise even one wing, and the many other horrors of modern factory farming?

Rabbi: As a rabbi, I feel that I must point out that if Jews do not eat meat, they will be deprived of the opportunity to fulfill many mitzvot (commandments).

JVA: By not eating meat, Jews are actually fulfilling many mitzvot: showing compassion to animals, protecting health, conserving resources, helping to feed the hungry, and preserving the earth. And by abstaining from meat, Jews reduce the chance of accidentally violating several prohibitions of the Torah, such as mixing meat and milk, eating non-kosher animals, and eating forbidden fats or blood. There are other cases where Torah laws regulate things that God would prefer people not do at all. For example, God wishes people to live in peace, but he provides commandments relating to war, knowing that human beings will quarrel and seek victories over others. Similarly, the Torah laws that restrict taking female captives in wartime are a concession to human weakness. Indeed, the sages go to great lengths to deter people from taking advantage of such dispensations.

Rabbi: Judaism teaches that it is wrong not to take advantage of the pleasurable things that God has put on the earth. Since He put animals on the earth, and it is pleasurable to eat them, is it not wrong to refrain from eating meat?

JVA: Can eating meat be pleasurable to a sensitive person when he or she knows that, as a result, their health is endangered, grain is wasted, the environment is damaged, and animals are being cruelly treated? One can indulge in pleasure without doing harm to living creatures. There are many other cases in Judaism where actions that people may consider pleasurable are forbidden or discouraged – such as the use of tobacco, drinking liquor to excess, having sexual relations out of wedlock, and hunting.

Rabbi: As you know the laws of kashrut (dietary laws) are very important in Judaism. But, a movement by Jews toward vegetarianism would lead to less emphasis on kashrut, and eventually possibly a disregard of these laws.

JVA: I believe that there would be just the opposite effect. In many ways, becoming a vegetarian makes it easier and less expensive to observe the laws of kashrut. This might attract many new adherents to keeping kosher, and eventually to other important Jewish practices. As a vegetarian, one need not be concerned with mixing milchigs (dairy products) with fleichigs (meat products), waiting three or six hours after eating meat before being allowed to eat dairy products, storing four complete sets of dishes (two for regular use and two for Passover use), extra silverware, pots, pans, etc., and many other considerations incumbent upon the non-vegetarian who wishes to observe kashrut.

Rabbi: I must express a concern for the livelihood of some of my congregants and other Jews. If everyone became vegetarian, butchers, shochtim (slaughterers), and others dependent for a living on the consumption of meat would lack work.

JVA: There could be a shift from the production of animal products to that of nutritious vegetarian dishes. In England during World War II, when there was a shortage of meat, butchers relied mainly on the sale of fruits and vegetables. Today, new businesses could sell tofu, miso, felafel, soy burgers, and vegetarian cholent (Sabbath hot dish). Besides, the shift toward vegetarianism will be gradual, providing time for a transition to other jobs. The same kind of question can be asked about other moral issues. What would happen to arms merchants if we had universal peace? What would happen to some doctors and nurses if people took better care of themselves, stopped smoking, improved their diets, and so on? Immoral or inefficient practices should not be supported because some people earn a living in the process.

Rabbi: If vegetarianism solves some problems, doesn’t it create others. For example, if everyone became vegetarian, wouldn’t animals overrun the earth?

JVA: Respectfully, this concern is based on an insufficient understanding of animal behavior. For example, there are millions of turkeys around at Thanksgiving not because they want to help celebrate the holiday, but because farmers breed them for the dinner table. Dairy cows are artificially inseminated annually so that they will constantly produce milk. Before the establishment of modern intensive livestock agriculture, food supply and demand kept animal populations relatively steady. An end to the manipulation of animals’ reproductive tendencies to suit our needs would lead to a decrease, rather than an increase, in the number of animals. We are not overrun by animals that we do not eat, such as lions, elephants, and crocodiles.

Rabbi: Instead of advocating vegetarianism, shouldn’t we alleviate the evils of factory farming so that animals are treated better, less grain is wasted, and less health-harming chemicals are used.

JVA: The breeding of animals is “big business”. Animals are raised the way they are today because it is very profitable. Improving conditions, as suggested by this assertion, would certainly be a step in the right direction, but it has been strongly resisted by the meat industry since it would greatly increase already high prices. Why not abstain from eating meat as a protest against present policies while trying to improve them? Even under the best of conditions, why take the life of a creature of God, “whose tender mercies are over all His creatures” (Psalms 145:9), when it is not necessary for proper nutrition?

Rabbi: If vegetarian diets were best for health, wouldn’t doctors recommend them?

JVA: Unfortunately, while doctors are devoted to the well-being of their patients, many lack information about the basic relationship between food and health, because nutrition is not sufficiently taught at most medical schools. Also, many patients are resistant to making dietary changes. The accepted approach today seems to be to prescribe medications first and, perhaps, recommend a diet change as an afterthought. However, there now seems to be increasing awareness on the part of doctors about the importance of proper nutrition, but the financial power of the beef and dairy lobbies and other groups who gain from the status quo prevents rapid changes. Experts on nutrition, including the American and Canadian dietetic associations stress the many health benefits of plant-centered diets.

Rabbi: some of my congregants would respond: I enjoy eating meat. Why should I give it up?

JVA: If one is solely motivated by what will bring pleasure, perhaps no answer to this question would be acceptable. But, as you well know, Judaism wishes us to be motivated by far more: doing mitzvot, performing good deeds and acts of charity, sanctifying ourselves in the realm of the permissible, helping to feed the hungry, pursuing justice and peace, etc. Even if one is primarily motivated by considerations of pleasure and convenience, the negative health effects of animal-centered diets should be taken into account. One cannot enjoy life when one is not in good health.

Rabbi: Well, I am sure that there are other questions that should be addressed. But I think that you have made the case for at least having a broad discussion of the Jewish and universal issues related to our diets. Why don’t you form a committee with members of different viewpoints and set up a forum at which all of the issues related to our diets can be discussed.

Richard H. Schwartz, Ph.D.
Professor Emeritus, College of Staten Island
Author of Judaism and Vegetarianism, Judaism and Global Survival, Mathematics and Global Survival, and Who Stole My Religion? Revitalizing Judaism and Applying Jewish Values to Help Heal Our Imperiled Planet, and 200 articles at JewishVeg.com/schwartz
President Emeritus, Jewish Vegetarians of North America (www.JewishVeg.com); President, Society Of Ethical and Religious Vegetarians (SERV):
Associate producer of A SACRED DUTY (www.aSacredDuty.com);
“Like” JVNA on Facebook at www.facebook.com/JewishVeg

Animal Advocacy Guest Blogger Thank You

Share for Awareness ~ it matters!
Share on Facebook
Facebook
Tweet about this on Twitter
Twitter
Share on LinkedIn
Linkedin
Pin on Pinterest
Pinterest
Email this to someone
email
Print this page
Print
Continue Reading

Can Blind Pets Lead Happy Lives?

Before you Comment, take a moment to review our guidelines!

Fortunately most eye diseases are successfully treated with medication or surgery. However, in some cases vision is irreversibly lost. Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) and Glaucoma are two common causes of permanent blindness.

Veterinarians are often asked whether a blind dog or cat can lead a happy life.

The answer is an unequivocal “YES!”

While there are certainly some things that they may be unable to do, most of the activities that are important to our pets are still possible. A blind dog or cat will behave remarkably normally in their own home. Animals that lose vision gradually appear to adjust better than those that lose vision rapidly. In both cases, with a bit of patience, we have found that almost every pet can make this adjustment. They will remember where their food and water are and rarely bump into things in the home. Try not to rearrange the furniture and you will be amazed at how well your pet will remember the floor plan — even going up and down stairs. They will still play with toys and may prefer a ball with a bell or a squeak toy. They will enjoy interacting with their human family in most all of the same ways as they did before they lost vision. A blind pet can continue in every way in their primary role as a loving companion.

It is important to recognize that, while vision is important to dogs and cats, they have many other senses that help them adjust to the lose of this one. Their senses of hearing and smell are much more sensitive than ours — dogs would think our normal senses a handicap! Loss of vision does not represent the same hardship for our pets as it would for us. For us, blindness would mean an inability to read or drive a car and a loss of independence. Our pets are already (happily) dependent on us.

A blind pet does have some special needs, including a protected environment. This is particularly important because they behave so normally that you may forget that they are handicapped. Hazards for a blind pet include swimming pools, traffic and balconies. A blind dog should always be kept on a leash when outside of a fenced yard; you may find a harness works better than a collar for guiding your pet on walks outdoors. There are tools available to help you keep your pet safe while still allowing some freedom. For example, there is an alarm you can attach to your pets collar to alert you if they fall in the swimming pool.

Here is an inspirational article written by one of our clients who continued to train her agility dog after she began to go blind.

If you have a pet that has lost vision, you may appreciate some of the web sites available on this subject:

blinddogs.com
pepedog.com
angelvest.homestead.com
muffinshalo.com

There are also two very good books by Caroline Levin, RN: “Living With Blind Dogs: A Resource Book and Training Guide for the Owners of Blind and Low-Vision Dogs” and “Blind Dogs Stories: Tales of Triumph, Humor, and Heroism” They are available from Lantern Publications.

Veterinary Visions

Animal Advocacy just-do-something.org logo

Share for Awareness ~ it matters!
Share on Facebook
Facebook
Tweet about this on Twitter
Twitter
Share on LinkedIn
Linkedin
Pin on Pinterest
Pinterest
Email this to someone
email
Print this page
Print
Continue Reading

Guest Blogger, Melissa Prescott – DARL (Animal Rescue)

Before you Comment, take a moment to review our guidelines!

When it comes to Animal Cruelty Awareness, there are so many issues that we all could go on about. Today I want to talk about Pitbull & Animal Cruelty Awareness in Massachusetts, and how my Animal Rescue helps our community better understand these beautiful animals. I will add educational tips that you can pass on to your friends and community along with information on how you can recognize and report animal cruelty/dog fighting. The issues I am presenting are global, however I am focusing your attention on my home state – Massachusetts. Yes, it ALL happens here too.

Pitbulls in Massachusetts are no different from Pitbulls any other state or country. If you don’t already know this, Pitbull is not a breed of dog at all! Pitbull is a crossbreed between a bulldog and a terrier. Other breeds that are ‘labeled’ as pit bulls are the French Bulldog and Boston Terrier just to name two. You will hear some say “it’s a pitbull” because it has certain physical characteristics such as a square shaped head or bulky body type. Whatever you want to call these beautiful animals, remember they are dogs, not monsters.

How did such a beautiful specimen of intelligence, strength, loyalty, athleticism, energy, love and caring become known as monster and danger to MA society?

Pitbulls are not born to attack or fight. Because of their eagerness to please their humans, pitbulls are easy to train.  When put in the hands irresponsible owners or trainers they are molded into a dangerous weapon used against people or other dogs. This is all human training and doing. I’m not saying that all pitbulls never have behavioral issues; I’d be a liar. ALL BREEDS CAN HAVE ISSUES. But, we as humans have the ability to control the behavior of the animal. Responsible owners understand when to correct a bad behavior and what precautions need to be made in any event. Criminals and animal abusers thrive on the bad behavior for entertainment-dogfighting and the thrill of having a powerful weapon-trained animals to attack people.

This is what we read about. Pitbull Attacks. These headlines are the main cause of these animals being banned from certain areas, insurance companies discriminating against the breed, and for some of the abuse to Pitbulls from animal abusers who in their mind think that these animals deserve it and no one cares. We care! You should too.

Pitbulls are being bred, sold and raised by criminals in MA as you read this blog.  In August 2013, Puppy Doe, the pitbull puppy that was tortured and starved was found in Quincy.  Just in March 2014 a Dorchester man was arrested for operating a dog-fighting ring.

What can you do to help?

  • Educate yourself and others. Start with reading about Dog-fighting with this article here!!
  • Never report dog-fighting or animal abuse videos or social media pages/websites to the internet companies hosting these sites. Why? Because if these criminals get one clue or tip that they are noticed, they will run and move to another location. If that happens they are harder to find. Instead report to your local Animal Control Officer, Police Department and to Norred & Associates (refer to www.just-do-something’s other Guest Blog post on this.)
  • You can anonymously report suspected cases of animal cruelty by phone 1.877.215.2250. A reward of up to $5,000 is offered for information leading to the arrest or conviction of a dog fighter.

Always remember not every dog that is trained to fight is a pitbull type dog nor are they always the fighting dog. Bait dogs or bait animals (cats) are not used for fighting – they are use to get the fighting dogs in an aggressive ‘primal’ state of mind. These animals can be stolen from (examples) families or shelters, and/or found on FREE ANIMAL sites like Craigs List. FREE is NOT GOOD!

How does DARL help?

  • We offer educational workshops,and  information packets to those who want to know more about how to help stop Animal Cruelty and Dog-fighting in our community.

Our rescue is involved in helping these animals get medical attention, training and a chance to get into a caring home that is suitable for their needs. Our rescue joins community events to help spread the awareness to thousands of people every year. Public speaking, writing letters, and fundraising is all volunteer work. Most of these animals would not do well in a shelter situation so we provide a limited foster care program for these animals.

You can help us!

* Volunteer

* Foster

* Help spread the word

Our information:

DARL_Daisy’sAnimalRescueLeague , Sterling, MA

E-Mail: pitbullshavefeelingstoo.net

Website: pitbullshavefeelingstoo.net

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DaisysAnimalRescueLeagueDarl

Twitter: https://twitter.com/DAnimalRescueL

Pinterest: http://www.pinterest.com/DARLsavinglives/

Come say “hi” at the Whisker Walk on June 8th in Lancaster, MA! Bring your dog!

 

– Melissa Lee Prescott -Animal Advocate, President of DARL_Daisy’sAnimalRescueLeague, Representative for ADFC(Anti-Dogfighting Campaign) of MA, ABCDT(Animal Behavior College Certified Dog Trainer) certified in several fields of FEMA and a proud owner of 2 beautiful Pitbull/mixes Zan and Angie who are DARL’s mascots.

 

Animal Advocacy Guest Blogger Thank You

Share for Awareness ~ it matters!
Share on Facebook
Facebook
Tweet about this on Twitter
Twitter
Share on LinkedIn
Linkedin
Pin on Pinterest
Pinterest
Email this to someone
email
Print this page
Print
Continue Reading

Make Changes to Accommodate Your Aging Dog

Before you Comment, take a moment to review our guidelines!

At first you notice more grey around their muzzle. They eyes have lost that sparkle and appear to have sunk a bit deeper.

For most owners, the process begins with their dog appearing less interested in the activities they once thrived on. They are no longer interested in chasing a ball or Frisbee for what seemed to you, like hours! They hesitate before jumping into or out of the car. It takes a little longer for them to get to you when called.

dog arthritis

 

Basic routines are becoming more strenuous. They have to go out more often, or have “accidents” in the house. Walks are slower and shorter. They may begin to limp more. They get out of breath quicker. Their breathing, even when resting, is more labored. They are more prone to injuries.

You notice they now eat to live, rather than how they were jokingly known to live to eat. They have lost their taste for certain foods.

They appear to have lost their “sense of humor.” Some are less tolerant of other animals and children. They growl or retreat to a private space more often. They appear depressed.

There are a number of easy and inexpensive ways to help your dog pass through this critical stage of their life, with less pain and more dignity. They include:

  • First, take them to your veterinarian for a check up and assessment of their current condition. Your vet may recommend supplements that will help relieve pain.
  • To manage arthritis in dogs, veterinarians recommend controlling the pain and inflammation associated with arthritis with medication. This should also be accompanied by a suitable diet and exercise and supplements.
  • Get a ramp, so they can get into and out of the car on their own.
  • Raise their food and water bowl, so they do not have to bend down to far to eat or drink comfortably.
  • Change their diet. Their sense of smell may no longer be as keen. This often makes food seem less appealing or palatable.
  • If they are having problems with their teeth, switch to smaller kibbles or softer food.
  • Feed less, but more often.
  • Soak their food in salt-free broths.
  • If you allow your dog on the sofa or bed, there are “stairs” available in pet stores and on line, to help them get up and down, without causing pain.
  • Get them a softer bed. Tile and wood floors are tough on their old bone.
  • Keep physically stressful activities short, but interesting and fun.
  • Have a short new adventure together every now and them. Go some place different! Try something different. Many dog owners have found, the canine social interaction from joining a dog training class, often piques their dog’s interest in life again.
  • Take them out more often. Give them more time to take care of “business.”
  • If they are losing their hearing, get a whistle, to get their attention.
  • If their vision is failing, they may be nervous going outside alone in the dark. Keep them company…light up the yard, or carry a flashlight.
  • Be tolerant of “accidents.” They may not have the bladder or bowel control they once had. Don’t expect them to be able to “hold it” as long as they once could.
  • Keep the walks short, but do it more often.
  • Give them a private place to retreat to…and respect it.
  • If there are other dogs in the house, do not tolerate bullying. It often happens as a senior alpha dog transitions to a lower pack status.
  • Massage your dog, or have them professionally massaged. It makes a huge difference!
  • Be patient if they appear “needy.” They cannot explain it to you, but something physical may be happening, and they feel safer with you.
  • Expect less from them. Appreciate and praise any efforts they make. Positive reinforcement is an amazing motivator!

Bottom line: Your dog may no longer be what they once were. Nonetheless, that doesn’t change how much they love, respect, and need you. Make this ultimate stage of their life as vital as possible. Give them the dignity they have earned and deserve. You owe it to them.

 

By Karen A. Soukiasian

JDS Small Block

Share for Awareness ~ it matters!
Share on Facebook
Facebook
Tweet about this on Twitter
Twitter
Share on LinkedIn
Linkedin
Pin on Pinterest
Pinterest
Email this to someone
email
Print this page
Print
Continue Reading

Guest Blogger, Billy Howard – helpstopdogfighting.com

Before you Comment, take a moment to review our guidelines!

Let’s End Dog Fighting Together

Many people are not aware of what dog fighting really is, or are aware of the possible signs of a dog fighting operation.

Dog fighting is extremely inhumane and cruel, and the things these dogs are forced to endure are unimaginable.

Do a quick search on the internet and you will learn how dogs are treated and what they are forced to do to fight or be the “bait” dog.

Dogs are stolen from shelters and domestic homes for dog fighting purposes, or raised just for this purpose.

Dog fighting is no “sport”, contrary to those who treat it as a sporting event.

Here in the Alabama area, dog fighting areas and operations usually present signs of multiple dogs (usually pitbull mixes) living outside in 55 gallon barrel drums chained with logging chain (10 feet long).  Surrounding that area are usually ropes and chains hanging from trees, with springs attached to those ropes and chains.  We see a number of tread mills in the area.  And the dogs that are used to fight have scars and/or fresh wounds on their faces and bodies.

Sadly, dog fighting is prevalent is ALL countries.  Did you know that within the Unites States, almost every county in every state has dog fighting organizations?

Our organization is www.helpstopdogfighting.com, and we go ANYWHERE in the United States for FREE when it comes to investigating and stopped dog fighting operations.  There is up to a $5,000.00 Reward for valid information, and we encourage people to reach out to us if they have any reason to suspect, or have information about, dog fighting.  Call 1-877-215-2250.

Dog fighters are not stupid.  They are very aware of what they are doing is illegal and inhumane, so they are very careful to conduct these operations in secret and without bringing too much attention to the dogs they are using for dog fighting.

In addition, please visit my own personal endeavor at www.alabamaangelsdogrescue.com.  I do ALL rescuing and website maintenance by myself, without any volunteers because where we are located in Alabama it is quite rural and it’s difficult to get interested people to want to help.  Anyone wanting to help my dog rescue here, 90% are Death Row Rescued!  You can call my local Farmers Co-op at 256-357-4743 and order dog food by phone or through pay-pal listed under my e mail account through Yahoo.

My additional contact information is listed on my website.

Thank you for taking the time to read this, and share it.
Thank you to www.just-do-something.org for helping me share my story and spread awareness on this important issue.

Please, do what you can, where and when you can.

– Billy Howard
Alabama Investigator

Thank you to our Guest Blogger

 

Share for Awareness ~ it matters!
Share on Facebook
Facebook
Tweet about this on Twitter
Twitter
Share on LinkedIn
Linkedin
Pin on Pinterest
Pinterest
Email this to someone
email
Print this page
Print
Continue Reading

There’s nothing cute about the Puppy Trade – UK

Before you Comment, take a moment to review our guidelines!

 

SetRatioSize540540-VIER_PFOTEN_2013-04-23_004_2

From our friends across the water!

FOUR PAWS recent media coverage in the Daily Mail http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2597376/Crammed-filthy-cages-squalid-Polish-puppy-farms-dogs-destined-sold-Britain-huge-profit.html  has highlighted the growing problem of pedigree puppy farming across Eastern Europe to supply the UK market. The expose shines a spotlight on the conditions in these breeding farms for both the breeding dogs and their puppies.

 On puppy farms, breeding bitches will often spend their entire lives in poor living conditions, being used as breeding machines to produce litter after litter for profit. They are kept in dark sheds, basements, outbuildings, confined in small pens and fed on poor diets. Production costs are kept low to ensure that both the breeders and dealers make big profits. Puppies are torn away from their mothers at a young age, often as young as 4 weeks old. This early separation makes the puppies prone to both behavioural and health problems. The puppies are then transported hundreds of miles across Europe with fake health and passport documents. They are either sold direct over the internet or onto UK dealers who collect the puppies from car parks near the port or motorway and sell them on as homebred.

 FOUR PAWS launched an online platform www.stoppuppytraders.org in order to raise awareness about illegal puppy trade and to offer a contact point for concerned members of the public who wish to report a suspected illegal puppy trader. Besides providing useful information on the issue, the website offers a tool for duped buyers who wish to share their experience. FOUR PAWS is calling for tighter import regulations and for EU wide regulations for the registration, vaccination and identification of all dogs by microchip.

 Take action

Get in touch with us if you have any information or are concerned about a breeder: www.stoppuppytraders.org

JDS Small Block

Share for Awareness ~ it matters!
Share on Facebook
Facebook
Tweet about this on Twitter
Twitter
Share on LinkedIn
Linkedin
Pin on Pinterest
Pinterest
Email this to someone
email
Print this page
Print
Continue Reading

Guest Blogger, Christine A. Dorchak, Esq. – GREY2K USA

Before you Comment, take a moment to review our guidelines!

 

The fight to end dog racing worldwide

GREY2K USA is a non-profit team dedicated to passing stronger greyhound protection laws and ending the cruelty of dog racing. I co-founded the organization with political strategist Carey Theil, veterinarian Dr. Jill Hopfenbeck and the Reverend Tom Grey in 2001. We advocate for greyhounds in the legislative and judicial process and also promote the adoption of these gentle hounds worldwide.

The inspiration behind GREY2K USA dates back to 1992, when my dog Kelsey and I were struck by a speeding train while out for a walk one day.  Kelsey managed to pull us slightly off course, preventing a head-on collision and saving our lives.  When I awoke from a coma, my first words were, “How’s Kelsey?”  I promised right then and there that if I could ever walk again, I would devote my life to helping dogs, and that she and I would do this work together.

My dear Kelsey had suffered a broken hip the day of our accident, but she was to live until the age of fifteen, dying just a few days after I finished law school.  She helped me through my rehabilitation, four years of evening law classes and the early days of our campaigns, staying by my side as long as she could.  It is Kelsey’s inspiration that continues to motivate my work for her fellow dogs each day.

Our Work

In recent years, GREY2K USA has phased-out dog racing in many states and successfully prevented its introduction to countries such as South Africa, Jamaica and the Philippines. The organization’s most rewarding campaign involved a voter referendum in which four million people were asked to shut down the two tracks of our home state.  In November 2008, Massachusetts citizens voted overwhelmingly in favor of the greyhounds, starting a chain of events that quickly led to the prohibition of dog racing in our sister states of New Hampshire, Rhode Island and most recently, Colorado.

All told, we have helped close more than half of all US tracks over the last decade, and we are now looking to apply our strategy to help end dog racing worldwide.

The key to our efforts is a reliance on bona fide, official documentation only.  Where previous efforts to end dog racing often amounted to a “he-said she-said” debate, today we let the greyhounds to speak for themselves through their own track records and photographs.  As government documents show, racing greyhounds spend an average of twenty or more hours a day inside small stacked cages which are barely large enough for them to stand up or turn around.  When taken out of their cages to race, these sensitive dogs face the risk of serious injury and death at every turn.

Greyhounds suffer terrible injuries while racing.

At tracks nationwide, greyhounds routinely suffer serious injuries. These include dogs that suffer broken legs and spines, paralysis, head trauma, puncture wounds and death from cardiac arrest.

  • At two West Virginia dog tracks, 4,796 greyhound injuries were reported between January 2008 and June 2013. During the same period, 289 dogs died or were destroyed.
  • At Southland Greyhound Park in Arkansas, 476 greyhound injuries were reported from January 2008 and December 2013, including at least thirty-three dogs that died or were destroyed.
  • At Gulf Greyhound Park in Texas, 2,080 greyhound injuries were reported between January 2008 and December 2013.  Eighty-six dogs died or were killed.
  • At Bluffs Run and Dubuque Greyhound Parks in Iowa, there were 747 greyhound injuries reported from January 2006 through July 2012.
  • In Florida, 74 dogs died at racetracks between May 31 and December 31, 2013. At least one of these dogs was electrocuted.

More than just numbers, these figures tell the stories of individual dogs who lived and died so that a gambler could place a $2 bet on them.  One-year-old WW’s Laos who broke his leg at the Wheeling,West Virginia track and was destroyed in one of his first races.  He had only left the breeding farm a few months before.  SE’s Angel Fire was a two-year-old white and black greyhound who broke her back during a race at the Hollywood track in Florida.  She was put down.  A red brindle-colored dog named SH Transporter was destroyed after breaking his right front leg at the Dubuque track.  He was carried off the track and killed.  And LNB Night Mare was a young dog who fell into the electronic lure and died while racing at Tucson Greyhound Park.

Small cages are greyhounds’ only homes.

When not at the track, racing greyhounds endure lives of terrible confinement.  They are kept inside warehouse-style kennels inside stacked cages that are barely large enough for them to stand up or turn around — for twenty or more hours a day!  There are no toys for them and no play.

unnamed

The minimum size for dog track cages is 32 inches high by 31 inches wide by 42 inches deep, with some slightly larger.  According to the American Greyhound Council, greyhounds stand between 23 inches and 30 inches tall at the shoulder and weigh between fifty and eighty-five pounds.  Using these dimensions provided by the industry, this means that large greyhounds cannot stand fully erect in their cages.

Since there are no required turn-out times, the only extended period that a racing greyhound is outside of his cage is when he is trucked over to the track to perform several times a month.  Otherwise, life is marked by the four walls of his cage.

This is no way to treat a dog!

Greyhound racing breeds misery.

Beyond the industry standards of confinement, injuries and fatalities, and the killing of young, healthy dogs, the industry has a fundamental problem of perspective:  In the eyes of racetrack promoters, dogs are merely short-term investments. Even the fastest dogs can only race for a few years, and are expected to generate enough profit during that time to make up for the cost of their food and housing.  The pressure to generate profits can lead to negligent care and outright cruelty such as the use of drugs to alter a dog’s performance.

Another essential problem with dog racing is that thousands of dogs are over-bred every year in an effort to find younger, faster dogs. The older ones are then displaced, and their very lives put in immediate jeopardy. Will they be rescued or will they be destroyed?  The lucky ones who do reach adoption will then displace other needy animals (cats, dogs, rabbits, others) also seeking homes.  In this significant way, the racing industry aggravates a homeless animal population which is already overwhelming and immensely sad.  I believe that best answer is to get to the root of the problem and end dog racing as quickly as possible.

A dying industry.

Even as this cruelty continues, attendance is shrinking by the year.  The Association of Racing Commissioners International reports a 67% decline in wagering on dog racing since 2001, the year GREY2K USA was founded.   Where there were once nearly fifty dog tracks in fifteen states at that time, today there remain a total of twenty-one facilities operating in seven states.  Similarly, state revenue from greyhound racing continues to drop catastrophically.  Between 2001 and 2011, state dog racing revenue declined by more than 80% nationwide.  In Florida, the country’s biggest dog racing state, regulatory costs have now exceeded revenues by as much as $3.3 million yet dog tracks continue to receive tax breaks and other incentives. States like West Virginia continue to subsidize live racing with tens of millions of dollars per year.  This is money that would be better spent on schools, law enforcement, infrastructure and other important community needs.

You can help the greyhounds.

It’s time for a change, and we would like your help in making that change.
Please join us in our fight to end dog racing.

My greyhound is truly one of the lucky ones.  As Kelsey before her, Zoe gives life to this struggle and reminds me that every dog deserves to be loved and protected.

To learn more about dog racing, and to work with us to save greyhounds, please go to www.GREY2KUSA.org.

Please sign up for action alerts, find us on Facebook and join the team that is working to give greyhounds the second chance they deserve.

Guest Blogger and Friend, Zoe:

CHRISTINE DORCHAK WITH BEST FRIEND ZOE

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Christine A. Dorchak, Esq.
GREY2K USA President and General Counsel, GREY2K USA

Thank you to our Guest Blogger

 

Share for Awareness ~ it matters!
Share on Facebook
Facebook
Tweet about this on Twitter
Twitter
Share on LinkedIn
Linkedin
Pin on Pinterest
Pinterest
Email this to someone
email
Print this page
Print
Continue Reading

How to Workout With Your Dog Safely!

Before you Comment, take a moment to review our guidelines!

As warm weather approaches, building a workout routine with your mutts can be extremely beneficial. A lot of people find it fun and motivating to workout with your dogs. However, there are certain cautionary steps pet owners should take when exercising with your mutts. Here are some tips:BEFORE THE WORKOUT

  • Evaluate your mutts’ physicality – Don’t just dive into an intense workout session with your dog; build up to it. Make sure you know what your dog is capable of and consider its breed and age for certain exercises. It would be good to consult your trusted vet before you start a workout regiment with your mutts.
  • Environmental Considerations – Running, hiking, biking, or walking in cold or hot weather may not be the best times for you or your mutt. If you’re exercising outside during the summer, try to go early or late evening when the pavement is not hot on your mutt’s feet. During the cold winter, consider walking or running your dog on a treadmill.
  • Prep Yourself with Food & Water – Make sure you bring some food and water for both you and your mutt, especially if you plan on doing a lengthy or intense workout. Dog treats and an energy bar may help boost you and your mutt’s energy and water will help prevent heat stroke.

DURING THE WORKOUT

  • Train Your Dog – Properly train your mutts to walk or run the same side of you every time to avoid tripping each other. Teach them not to pull on the leash or not to run ahead of you unexpectedly to avoid throwing you off balance.
  • Safety Comes First -Make sure you wear a helmet, knee pads, and other protection when appropriate. Don’t tie the leash to your wrist in case your dog pulls and jerks you off balance. Don’t push you or your mutt too hard. If either of you are starting to show signs of exhaustion, pain, or trouble breathing, then that’s a good indication to stop the workout and rest.
  • Again Stay Hydrated – Allow you and your mutt to drink plenty of water throughout the exercise and a little bit of food here and there to boost your energy (but don’t exercise on a full stomach either).

 AFTER THE WORKOUT

  • Cool Down & Body Check – After your workout, make sure to cool your body down and stretch out your muscles. Also take some time to check your mutt’s leg and paws for any cuts, bruises, ticks, and other foreign objects. You may also reward your dog with a treat for working hard.
  • Once Again, Hydrate You and Your Dog – Also be sure to allow the proper amount of rest for you and your mutt in between workouts for your bodies to recoup.

Keeping your mutts happy, healthy, and hearty! 

Hearty Mutts
JDS Small Block
Share for Awareness ~ it matters!
Share on Facebook
Facebook
Tweet about this on Twitter
Twitter
Share on LinkedIn
Linkedin
Pin on Pinterest
Pinterest
Email this to someone
email
Print this page
Print
Continue Reading

Guest Blogger, Ellen Wilson – Animal Advocate

 Before you Comment, take a moment to review our guidelines!

“You may choose to look the other way, but you can never say again that you did not know.” (William Wilberforce)

 Last June I took five students to Puerto Rico to volunteer at Save a Sato (“sato” is Puerto Rican slang for street mutt), an organization whose mission is to rescue abandoned dogs from the streets, provide them with medical care, food, and love, then work to find them loving forever homes. Save a Sato is run by Gloria Martí, who has made rescuing and re-homing these dogs her life.

I came to learn of Save a Sato when my family agreed that the time was right for us to get a dog. I already knew how loyal and loving rescue dogs are and that I could find the perfect dog for our family at a shelter, although it would probably involve going to several shelters before we would find “the one”.  As I was reading the newspaper shortly after we made that decision I saw an article about a shelter in Puerto Rico that rescues “satos” from the streets and sends them to partner shelters in the states (only no-kill shelters!) to find them loving homes. There was to be a new group of satos coming to Danbury Animal Welfare Society in Danbury, Connecticut in a few days and we were the first ones there when the shelter opened.

When the satos were let out into a fenced yard they came joyfully running out, chasing each other and running to the visitors for attention. My family was blessed that day; we were “chosen” by a loving nine month-old cocker spaniel named Happy who certainly lived up to her name. The love was mutual and Happy, now Phoebe, is a healthy twelve year-old. When it comes her time to cross the rainbow bridge, I will be comforted in knowing that this sweet dog who was once a hungry, mistreated puppy living on the streets spent the rest of her life basking in the love that all dogs deserve.

Phoebe in the yardPhoebe, today at home

As the years passed since we adopted Phoebe, I never forgot about Save a Sato and the thousands of dogs they have rescued.  I made monetary donations, but I always wanted to do more. I decided that volunteering at Save a Sato would offer our students a unique life experience while giving back to this wonderful organization that rescued my dog.

When announcing the trip, I told the student body that this was not a trip for them if they were looking for a Puerto Rican beach vacation. I stressed that in order to go they must love dogs, be a hard worker, and not mind getting dirty. I warned that we would spend most of our time there cleaning cages, not playing with cute puppies; we were going to WORK. In fact we did spend most of our time cleaning cages, but the students were up to the task.

Em, Nick, and Rose cleaning cagesCleaning Cages at Save a Sato

Save a Sato has very few volunteers on the weekdays so there are typically about three people (including Gloria) to do all the work. It took the five students and me all afternoon to clean the cages, feed, and water the dogs. Gloria was so appreciative of the time it freed up for her to catch up on other necessary work at the shelter. And although we did spend most of our time cleaning cages, there was time to interact with the dogs each day. Lucy was the only volunteer who could speak English and she wasn’t at the shelter several days so the students who were taking Spanish had the added benefit of using their language skills in a real life situation.

unnamedStudent volunteer Eva Y. assists Gloria as she applies medication to a sato.

I was very proud of these kids who worked so hard without complaining, knowing that they were making a difference in the lives of the dogs. At the end of our trip, the students asked me to organize a repeat trip for 2014. They didn’t have to twist my arm very hard! This year I will be taking eight students, two fellow faculty members, and a past graduate who will have just finished her first year of vet school. I am even more excited about this trip than I was the first one since I know what a rewarding experience it will be.

The experience of working at Save a Sato gave me one of the biggest “ah-ha” moments in my life and through it I found my true passion, which is to spend the rest of my life working to make the laws in the United States reflect that neglect and cruelty towards animals is something our society will not tolerate. Educating the public is key and this is something all of us can be doing every day. If people learn about the realities of puppy mills and that buying a puppy or kitten from a pet store keeps this inhumane industry in business, I believe most will choose to adopt a rescue or buy from a reputable breeder.  I believe that in learning there are significant health benefits to the spayed or neutered pet and that increasing the number of dogs and cats being altered will result in lower rates of euthanization, more people will choose this simple and inexpensive procedure for their pet.

We aren’t all in the position to adopt or foster a pet or volunteer in a shelter, but every one of us can educate others about the ludicracy of supporting an industry that produces puppies as fast as it can while each year 2.7 million adoptable dogs and cats are euthanized (humanesociety.org, 2012-2013 statistic).

  • We can all call or email our state and federal representatives to encourage them to vote in favor of bills that protect animals and oppose those that allow cruelty.
  • We can all teach our children that getting a pet is a long term commitment and that if you don’t think of it that way, you aren’t someone who should have a pet.
  • Every day, we can all contribute to easing the suffering of animals simply by speaking. I hope you will.

–  Written by Ellen Wilson, Spanish teacher at Canterbury School, a private high school in Connecticut.

Some great organizations to check out:

saveasato.org

thesatoproject.org

milldogrescue.org

YouTube:

Animal Cops Philadelphia 11: Puppy Mills Exposed (43:01) http://youtu.be/oWVkV6mZ3rw
If you are not familiar with puppy mills, this 43-minute video will give you quite an education.

The Sato Project (5:21) http://youtu.be/ZN8zHI70QnY

Five Days of Freedom: Ziva’s Story (6:47)- This short video featuring Theresa Shrader of National Mill Dog Rescue highlights the realities of puppy mills. http://youtu.be/OhxL7tVH5i0

Finding Forever: The Story of the Satos of Puerto Rico and the People Who Save Them (5:41) http://youtu.be/BveLPhPFQ2g

100,000: Saving the Stray Dogs of Puerto Rico (5:04) Interview with the Emmy Award winning director of the documentary 100,000. http://youtu.be/VEUCRXuaWEs

100,000 (full documentary w/English subtitles) (53:53) http://youtu.be/yWkXtxXq84M

Daylight Raid at Ballarat Puppy Factory (4:44) http://youtu.be/H7n6yoQOhO8

 

Thank you to our Guest Blogger

Share for Awareness ~ it matters!
Share on Facebook
Facebook
Tweet about this on Twitter
Twitter
Share on LinkedIn
Linkedin
Pin on Pinterest
Pinterest
Email this to someone
email
Print this page
Print
Continue Reading

Compassionate Thoughts On Euthanasia

Before you Comment, take a moment to review our guidelines!

 

One of the hardest things about having an animal beloved is trying to figure out what is best when the end of life seems imminent.  Death comes to all creatures, of course, but when we bring our fellow animals into our families, we take on the responsibility for his or her health, well-being and even the possibility of deciding when he or she will die. While euthanasia can be a blessing in certain cases, few of us want to take on the role of this type of decider.

Many of us working in animal care are asked, “When is it the right time to euthanize?

dreamstime_xs_1013759375f7af

Like many of my colleagues, I have good news and bad news for you.   The bad news? There is no one answer that fits all cases. As New England Pet Hospice & Home Care Founder and Director Heather Merrill tells our clients:

“We don’t believe in an objective standard or a list of criteria. Why not? Because we, like the AVMA, believe that our animals are sentient beings, capable of feeling and consciousness. Whether a particular animal wants to live is very individual and subject to change from moment to moment.  So instead of a list of factors that may or may not matter to that individual animal, we ask instead, ‘Do you think your animal wants to live in this moment?’ Sometimes the answer is yes, sometimes no.”

And the good news?  With interdisciplinary support services like New England Pet Hospice & Home Care, you have choices and can follow the path that feels right to you for your animal.You are no longer locked in to simply “when” but can also consider “whether” – knowing that there is an alternative to euthanasia: that it is possible for pets to die a natural, peaceful, pain free death at home with the support of hospice.   One of the most important services we provide to our client families is acting as a sounding board, helping them find the answer within themselves, whatever that may be, without agenda and without judgment. About two-thirds of our clients choose euthanasia at some point and about one-third do not, but almost all are satisfied that they have honored the wishes of their pet and are at peace with their decision, whatever it may have been.   Sometimes there can be enormous pressure to euthanize your pet – from friends, family, even the veterinary community.

dreamstime_xs_230640233ff4c9

We at NEPHHC believe that there is no moral obligation to euthanize our pets as long as we are able and willing to provide the following three things:

1.   Good pain management;
2.   Cleanliness of the pet’s body and surroundings; and
3.   Stimulation, attention, and love.

Afraid you won’t know when and will wait too long? Don’t be. In our experience, if you have any doubt, the answer is,“Not yet.” On the other hand, if you have an overwhelming sense that your pet wants help moving on, you have your answer and will not regret the euthanasia decision.

We absolutely believe that you know your beloved best, and whether he or she wants to live.You are the one who knows best your own resources – how much time, money and nursing skill you can devote to end-of-life care. You are the one who knows best what will be the most merciful and loving way for your pet’s life to end. As Heather pointed out, each pet is unique, and each pet’s situation can change from moment to moment.

Loving is not neat and tidy, and it can be least so as its ending.We know that each person, each family, has the wisdom to decide what is right, what makes sense for the well-being of their beloved friend. And we trust that when the time comes, you will draw on love and wisdom, with the help and support of others as needed, to make that decision.

Read More from New England Pet Hospice & Home Care HERE.

 

JDS Small Block
Share for Awareness ~ it matters!
Share on Facebook
Facebook
Tweet about this on Twitter
Twitter
Share on LinkedIn
Linkedin
Pin on Pinterest
Pinterest
Email this to someone
email
Print this page
Print
Continue Reading
Translate »