BAYOU RESCUE

Holiday Care for Pets

This time of year people begin to ramp up activity in preparation for holidays.  Family pets need to be taken into account so that they will remain healthy and safe.  Even if your pet is wonderful with company and obeys without coaxing, situations might arise that challenge your Rover or Fluffy or Pretty Bird to resist the temptation of sampling from a human's plate or taking an unexpected trip out the front door.  In the hustle and bustle of greeting family and friends, it is easy to understand how one could get distracted when it comes to pet care.

Therefore, here are a few tips on keeping your fur family healthy and safe:

Dogs ...
- Keep your dog away from certain foods such as onions, garlic, grapes and raisins, chocolate, alcohol, foods high in fat, sodium, or sugar, AND bones!
- Watch out for holiday decorations like dangling objects, plants, and tinsel.
- If your dog gets nervous (or isn't used to children) be sure that she has her own safe place to stay.
Cats...
- Do not give your cat table scraps.
- Be watchful of what you leave on counters.  Even the best behaved (non-counter jumping) cat may be too tempted to resist that roast or turkey sitting out.
- Be careful of holiday plants which may be toxic to your cat. Provide them with something like catnip or cat grass that you can grow for them.
- Watch out for holiday decorations, especially the ones that dangle because cats seem to find great pleasure in playing with this type of decoration.
- Ask guests to respect your cat's desire to be left alone - especially true for children.
- Keep an eye on the door and your cat when company arrives.  You know how fast a cat is when escape is on her mind. And, my cats always had a mind of their own about whether to come when I called or to ignore me totally!
Birds...
- Birds can become stressed out easily because they are creatures of habit and usually fairly sensitive.  They may notice environmental changes like decorations, music, lights, people and this serves as a stressor.
- Odors and fumes affect a bird's respiratory system and can be irritants.  (Remember that fumes from non-stick cooking surfaces can be toxic to birds.
- Changes in darkness affect the proper rest of birds.  Be sure to cover them or remove them from the increased activity so that they can get 10-12 hours of darkness.
- Try to keep your routine with them - feed at the same time, visit with them, play with them so they don't feel neglected.
- Parakeets can become overwhelmed easily.  I had my Oliver actually have his heart stop while in our wonderful vet's hand.  He was brought back by the vet giving him heart massage, and neither I nor the vet will ever forget the moments!  Watch out for these little guys!

Enjoy the holidays and keep your pets safe and relaxed!

Bayou Rescue Trains Community Emergency Response Teams in Animal Care and Protection

Last night, I was able to attend a training given by Bayou Rescue to Community Emergency Response Team trainees.  Amber, from Bayou Rescue, provided an evening of great information, laughs, and camaraderie.  

 The topics of instruction covered the importance of including companion animals in disaster plans, common stress reactions exhibited by dogs and cats during disasters, basic first aid for domestic animals, precautions to take dealing with animals you don’t know, as well as leaving certain wildlife alone.   Amber took a count of the number of companion animals belonging to the 20 or so people in the class and there were 37 animals.  Her point in taking the survey is that if a disaster were to happen and we could not get home due to unforeseen circumstances, our animals could be stranded without a caregiver.  That was a sobering beginning.

An evacuation kit is something that every pet owner needs to have.  Amber showed us the one she keeps in her home/car that has supplies to last at least three days for each pet.  This includes food and water with bowls, depending on the pet there might be litter or newspapers, paper towels, plastic trash bags, grooming items, pet toys, leashes, photos and description as well as a photo of you with your pet in case you get separated.  Vaccination records and pictures of distinguishing features of your pet are also needed in a complete “go box”.  Try to imagine how you would describe your pet if she were a black lab, for instance.  Black, female, large…  what else?  What color are the dog’s gums?  Is there any other color hair besides black?  How tall is the dog at the withers?  Are the pads of the feet all the same color?  There are so many differentiating characteristics that your pet has, but will you be able to tell them to shelters or put them on posters if you need to?  Something to think about, right?

We practiced putting a slip leash on a dog, talked about how to subdue a cat and how to capture a bird.  We discussed general first aid practices in case we have an injured animal.  We also learned about reactions that animals might have to disasters.  Imagine for a second, a pet has been left in your home because you had to evacuate and the shelter would not take pets.  That animal has experienced significant trauma during the disaster while you have needed to be away.  There are signals of stress reactions to be aware of when you approach an animal.  Here is a list of some things you might notice in dogs:

--Eyes:  enlarged/dilated pupils, glazed look, blinking, whites of eyes showing while glancing at you sideways.

--Face:  furrowed brow, uneven ears, raised ears, ears plastered back.

--Mouth:  lip licking, clomping jaws, yawning, panting, drooling, snarling, dry tongue.

--Vocalizing:  whining, excessive barking, growling.

--Posture:  stiff, avoidance, cowering, leaning forward or backwards, turning away from people, tail-wagging straight up in the air or very stiffly and quickly.

Cats may display similar signals to dogs. 

To reduce stress reactions in your pets, practice your disaster plan.  Introduce them to new items and experiences as well as getting them used to riding in your car and going into the pet carrier.  Do this before you really need to evacuate.

A couple of reminders from Amber when dealing with a stressed or strange dog are 1) direct eye contact with animals can be VERY intimidating to them, and 2) “Be a tree and freeze” which means pull in your arms close to your body and turn sideways to the animal who is running at you.  Do not turn and run!

The CERT training piece for Animals in Disaster was so helpful for all of us.  There were many other topics covered in the discussions, and I encourage you to think about enrolling in the Red Cross Pet First Aid class that is offered.  I have registered to take the November 21 class at the Durham Red Cross from 1:00 to 5:00 pm.  You also might consider becoming CERT trained.  It is a wonderful way to help out your neighborhood in case of an emergency when EMS can’t reach your neighborhood right away.  Be a leader in your community!

And, A Good Time Was Had By All!

Last weekend, Bayou Rescue participated in the 4th Annual Paws4Ever Walk for Animal Protection.  Bayou Rescue had such a great time doing this, and I thought that you would like to see pictures that the volunteers from BR took. 

This year's Walk for Animal Protection a huge success! with over 200 walkers and raised over $28,000 for Paws4Ever!  Many lives will be saved and homes will be found because of people's generosity.

   
Don't forget, there are always opportunities for you, too, so don't hesitate to get involved in something you enjoy.  My mother always said that life's greatest privilege was helping those who couldn't help themselves.                       

A New Dog or Cat - mixed breed of purbred?

When I began one of my searches for a new addition to my fur  family after losing a long-time wonderful friend, the first thing I considered was who would enjoy living with my family best and what characteristics should I look for when I chose that new member of the family.  I didn't need to decide what type of pet I wanted, but that can be a consideration for many people.  The one thing I knew was that I wanted to adopt.  I had never had a pet whom I had purchased, but I do have lots of friends who want a specific dog or cat with known characteristics.  I only wanted a dog who reached out to me to be his or hers. 

My first trip to the animal shelter overwhelmed me so that I postponed my pursuits for quite some time.  I wanted each and every one of the dogs to come home with me.  There was one older black lab type of dog whom I still remember to this day - 15 years later.  He actually spoke to me - not in words, but in my heart.  I had discussed the new family member with my husband before I began my search.  He had a few specifics which I agreed with, too.  One, a dog.  Two, a female.  Three, a puppy so we would know that whatever she had experienced in her short life most likely would not have left strong memories with her.  She would become a product of our influence not some unknown.  The dog who spoke to me was a male and about 8 years old.  I feel bad to this day that I left that beautiful creature there and hope he found someone wiser than I am. 

That has been an experience which has influenced me from that time on.  My next puppy was my wonderful Phaedra.  She is approaching 7 now and I wouldn't trade her for anything.  Nor, would I have ever wanted to miss having my baby girl, Zoe, come into our lives.  Still, I have widened my views on choices.  Taking into consideration the characteristics of a mixed breed dog (or cat) can be difficult if parentage is not easily discernible.  I will not ever rule out an older dog, now.  As a matter of fact, if I ever choose another dog, that dog will be a senior.  The downside of this is that I may not have that dog as long as I hope to have one.  Thinking about how short a time this "child" will be with me always makes me sad.  But, there are no guarantees in life, are there?  So, a senior dog will be the next characteristic I add to my list of desires.

There are some great ways to determine characteristics of certain breeds of dogs and cats.  I have many books that give "general and typical" characteristics.  I have also found several websites which list these characteristics.  So if you are considering a new pet, here are some of the many places that might help you find a pet who will enjoy your lifestyle.  And, with all of the homeless animals out there, if you want a purebred animal, please consider a breed specific rescue organization!

Dogs:
American Kennel Club
Dog Breed Profiles
To Mutt or Not to Mutt - The Pros and Cons of Purebred Dogs
Should I Get a Mix-Breed of Pure Breed?

Cats:
Cat Fanciers' Association, Inc.
Animal Hospitals - USA
Mixed Breed of Purebred :: Choosing A Cat Companion
Buying From A Reputable Rescuer  -  The Pros and Cons

Local Adoption Events Coming Up

There are many events held to promote pet adoption.  This area is rich with opportunities to find your new family addition as well as to get involved to help finding homes for animals.  Here are a few events that are taking place today or are coming up in the near future.  This is not a complete listing by any means, but it may get you started.  Someone out there needs you to love them.

November 8, Sunday        Petco Stores in Durham, Raleigh, and Knightdale (and nationwide) in conjunction with local animal rescue groups are hosting National Pet Adoption Weekend.  Check your local Petco stores for details.

PETCO Foundation's annual "Tree of Hope" Fundraiser to benefit local animal welfare groups. Check your local PETCO for exact times and details

November 8, Sunday    Marley's Cat Tales Adoptions Events: 1:00 am to 3:00pm  Every Sunday you can visit with Marley's Cat Tales people at the PetSmart of Brier Creek and the PetSupermarket of Cary.

November 8, Sunday   Second Chance Pet Adoptions are at PetSmart of Cary today, November 8 from Noon to 3:00 as well.

Animall is hosting the following adoption events:

• Pawfect Match (Dogs & Puppies)
  November 08, 2009 (2:00 PM - 4:00 PM)
  
• C.A.R.E. for Animals (Dogs and Cats)
  November 14, 2009 (11:00 AM - 2:00 PM)
  
• Paw Prints Animal Rescue (Cats and Kittens) 3-6pm
  November 14, 2009 (3:00 PM - 6:00 PM)
  
• Neuse River Golden Retriever Rescue
  November 21, 2009 (10:00 AM - 12:00 PM)
  
• C.A.R.E for Animals (Dogs and Cats)
  November 21, 2009 (1:00 PM - 4:00 PM)

Enjoy yourself and make someone very happy!  Remember, as the bumper sticker says, "Bark less, Wag more" !

I Love Black Dogs and Cats!

Have you ever looked closely at the beautiful and shiny fur of a black dog or cat?  It isn't really black if you look at it in the sun.  My Zoe's shiny black hair sparkles red, blue, and silver when viewed in sunlight.  It looks just like soft velvet - and feels that way, too.  Then, there is Phaedra who has the most beautiful and softest overcoat of silky black with an undercoat of reddish tan.  Her black, silky coat feels like cashmere strands that I just want to lay my hand upon every time she comes near me.  If these beautiful dogs weren't primarily black, they wouldn't be quite as beautiful.  Just as sweet, but not quite as beautiful.

Perhaps you have heard that black dogs and cats have greater difficulty when it comes to being adopted.  It seems that there are superstitions that follow animals  who are pure black.  I am so puzzled - are we still living in the dark ages?  (Notice even that phrase connotes that dark is undesirable!) 

Animals who are black are the last to be adopted.  Apparently, they are hard to photograph and therefore appear without enticing features.  Superstitions suggest that black cats bring bad luck.  This has persisted for centuries.  And images of a black cat arching its back at the feet of a witch on Halloween has served to perpetuate the negative image.  Black cats are thought to be less friendly than other cats and to have bad personalities, too.  Black animals seem to blend into the darkness of shelter cages so the animals aren't viewed as easily and are more easily overlooked by prospective adopters.  How unfair is this?

How can we help with this issue?  I guess by being aware of the problem and spreading the word that the myths and superstitions just aren't true may help.    It really makes me crazy to think that just due to coloring, black cats are 50% less likely to be adopted than tabby cats and 66% less likely to be adopted than white cats.  Several pet-rescue groups such as Cat Angels, Marley's Cat Tales, Animall, and the SPCA of Wake County are working to dispel the stigma of black cats and dogs.  To promote beautiful black cats for adoption, some groups have used a "Adopt a Panther" theme along while pairing the cats with blue collars and football decorated cages.  This type of promotion this past summer resulted in a rise in adoption figures of black cats.  Another way to help may be encouraging pet-rescue organizations to have at least one photo of a black animal featured prominently on their websites. 

Unfortunately, black genes are dominate in cats and dogs, so there are more of them around.  That means that we all must work harder to help these beautiful little souls find their own forever homes!

Cold Weather Preparation for Your Pet

Living in the mid-south, we don't have a great deal of really cold weather.  Perhaps that makes it more difficult to realize just how dangerous cold weather can be for pets if left out-of-doors during this cold time.  This is one of the most dangerous times of the year for dogs and cats.

Just because our furry friends have natural "coats" to keep them warm, that doesn't mean they don't feel the chill. Falling temperatures can be just as harsh on your dog as they are on you. So, how much outside time is too much for your dog? Here's a good rule of thumb. When you're out with your dog and you start to feel cold and uncomfortable, it's a pretty safe bet that your dog will be feeling it, too.

During cold weather, take special precautions to keep your dog comfortable, both indoors and out. A nice warm sweater, a comfy heated bed ... these things can make a real difference.  Even if your dogs don't wear sweaters or have heated beds, making sure that they aren't "forgotten" outside is imperative.  Sleeping on the floor can be drafty and cold. (I have heard that some dogs do this - not my "bed-hogs" so I can't confirm this first hand...) I do know, though that when my bones get cold, I am more likely to have aches and muscle stiffness, so why not a dog or cat?  Having a nice cushy pillow or blanket and protecting the pet's "den" with a cover on 3 sides can help a great deal.

The ASPCA has excellent cold weather tips to keep your pets healthy and safe.  To learn more about the tips, read the entire article  "Cold Weather Tips".

1. Keep your cat inside. Outdoors, felines can freeze, become lost or be stolen, injured or killed.
2. During the winter, outdoor cats sometimes sleep under the hoods of cars. When the motor is started, the cat can be injured or killed by the fan belt. If there are outdoor cats in your area, bang loudly on the car hood before starting the engine to give the cat a chance to escape.
3. Never let your dog off the leash on snow or ice, especially during a snowstorm—dogs can lose their scent and easily become lost. Make sure your dog always wears ID tags.
4. Thoroughly wipe off your dog's legs and stomach when he comes in out of the sleet, snow or ice. He can ingest salt, antifreeze or other potentially dangerous chemicals while licking his paws, and his paw pads may also bleed from snow or encrusted ice.   (My dogs know to sit at the door when they come in and wait to be toweled down.  It really helps with the mess, too.)
5. Never shave your dog down to the skin in winter, as a longer coat will provide more warmth. When you bathe your dog in the colder months, be sure to completely dry him before taking him out for a walk.
6. Never leave your dog or cat alone in a car during cold weather. A car can act as a refrigerator in the winter, holding in the cold and causing the animal to freeze to death.
7. Puppies do not tolerate the cold as well as adult dogs, and may be difficult to housebreak during the winter. If your puppy appears to be sensitive to the weather, you may opt to paper-train him inside. If your dog is sensitive to the cold due to age, illness or breed type, take him outdoors only to relieve himself.
8. Does your dog spend a lot of time engaged in outdoor activities? Increase his supply of food, particularly protein, to keep him—and his fur—in tip-top shape.
9. Like coolant, antifreeze is a lethal poison for dogs and cats. Be sure to thoroughly clean up any spills from your vehicle, and consider using products that contain propylene glycol rather than ethylene glycol. Visit the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center for more information.
10. Make sure your companion animal has a warm place to sleep, off the floor and away from all drafts. A cozy dog or cat bed with a warm blanket or pillow is perfect.

Using these ideas as reference points may help you keep your pets comfortable and healthy in these coming months.  Enjoy this time in front of the fire, all cuddled up with your furry friends!

Hats Off to Animal Control Officers!

I never thought about animal control officers except when I thought about a "dog catcher" and then my thoughts weren't exactly charitable.  Then, I had need of an animal control professional.  And, of course, this was around 10:30 in the evening on a Friday.  Not exactly the best time to call someone out to your house!

Without hesitation or an "attitude", my Orange County Animal Control Officer came right away.  He was so kind and diverted our apologies with friendly replies that he was more than pleased to "visit" us.  You see, our dogs had a close encounter with an opossum and we in turn handled them.  The dogs were not hurt, but the question was exposure to rabies.  They were vaccinated - we weren't.  Our fears were immediately put to rest through thorough discussion of our situation.  The Officer displayed knowledge and caring toward our questions.  After about 20 minutes discussing the situation with us, he took away the opossum and we breathed a sigh of relief.  About 2 years later, a raccoon made a house call that seemed a bit too friendly.  Of course, it was again late at night when we put in the call.  We were contacted immediately and once again, the same officer visited us.  He was kind, informative, and pleasant.  He knew what to do and the raccoon skedaddled (like he should).  I guess he wasn't intimidated by us, but when someone who knew how to stand up to the visitor went out on our deck, the raccoon sensed he'd met his match. 

I wish I could tell you our wonderful officer's name, but I can't remember it nor can I find it on line.  I just know that he is a wonderful county employee who has been doing this difficult job for many years.  I wish I had written a letter of thanks or commendation to him at the time.  So, here is my way of thanking all the good animal service workers who respond to people and animals alike.

Recently, Sandy Wollard of Beaufort County was been selected as Animal Control Officer of the Year in North Carolina.  "When the Observer's Pet Post columnist, Ginny Symkowiak, learned of this honor bestowed on Sandy Woolard she commented, 'I am not surprised that Sandy and her staff have received recognition for a job well done. They do more than a job, they truly care about all of the animals in Beaufort County, particularly the least fortunate ones.' "

If you get a chance, take the time to thank the animal services people who do a difficult job out of the desire to help people and animals in need.

Coming Local Events for Bayou Rescue! Join us!

There are always many local events that are fun to participate in and make a difference in the animals that we all love.  Bayou Rescue will be participating in these events and I thought that the events might interest you, too.

Saturday, November 7:  Bayou Rescue will have a booth at the 4th Annual Paws4Ever Walk for Animal Protection.  This event will take place at Chapel Hill's Southern Village Town Green in Southern Village.

Be a part of an event that works to save lives and help homeless animals in the community find a forever home to love them.  This two mile walk begins at 9am and the Walk starts at 12pm. If you are interested in seeing last year's highlights from the event, check out this YouTube video from last year's event.  Between October 30 and November 4, you can put yourself in the position to win a $50 Gift Certificate from Cole Park Veterinary Clinic.  To learn more, connect to the Paws4Ever site!  Registration is $25 for individuals, $20 for team members, and kids under 12 can march free when with an adult.  Learn how this wonderful event will assist homeless animals find a better life.

Monday, November 9:  Bayou Rescue will be teaching the "Animals in Disaster" module for the Orange County Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) at the Caldwell Volunteer Fire Department. 

Tuesday, November 10:  Bayou Rescue teaches the "Animals in Disaster" module of the Orange County CERT at the Sports Endeavors in Hillsborough.

I can tell you first hand that the Bayou Rescue "Animals in Disaster" program is fantastic.    In Bayou Rescue's program, I was really amazed about what I didn't know and how easy it is to learn techniques that can help animals and keep you safe.  The program is hands-on, motivating, and fun.  It identifies ways to assist an injured animal, learn an animal's body language cues, find out what is needed in a disaster kit, and many more valuable things that can help.

And, the CERT program is wonderful, too.  If you have ever wanted to know what to do in the event of a local disaster (tornado, factory explosion, ice storm, etc.) this is a great program which empowers citizens to help out in one's own neighborhood during an event.  It gives one the skills that can save lives (animals' and people's lives) until EMS arrives on scene, and it helps one to know what you can successfully do to help in times of need, and what you need to leave to the professionals.  If you'd like to know more about CERT, you can see an overview of the program connect to http://www.co.orange.nc.us/health/CERTProgram.asp or email abartolomeo@co.orange.nc.us. .

So, here are a handful of events that our own Bayou Rescue organization will attend in the next few days.  Think about joining us!

Bayou Rescue @ Howloween

Thanks Bayou Rescue volunteers Kelly G., Michael & Erica M, and their canine kids, for promoting disaster preparedness at the recent Howloween Event at Paws4Ever in Mebane, NC.  Come see us NEXT SATURDAY, 11/7 @ the Paws4Ever Walk for Animal Protection!!

Want to see more photos, and STAY IN THE KNOW?  Become a fan on our Facebook Page

  

   

 

Plight of Wild Horses in US.

Living in North Carolina, one understands the wonders that we are fortunate to have in our state.  As a child in any elementary school in this state, one learns songs about the attributes of our natural heritage from the mountains to the sea.  One of these wonderful treasures is the wild horses that live along out Outer Banks.  If you have seen them, you have experienced a beautiful sight as they run, graze, and grab your imagination to travel to a time long ago.  But, just as the wild mustangs of the west are having difficulties being "managed", so, too, are our Wild Horses of the Outer Banks having difficulties.

"Can the descendants of horses left by Spanish explorers coexist with native plants and animals on North Carolina's environmentally sensitive Outer Banks? A study will tell.

The Outer Banks was once full of mustangs thought to be descendants of horses brought to North America by explorers in the 16th and 17th centuries. In a 1926 National Geographic article, writer Melville Chater wrote that "between 5,000 and 6,000 of these wild horses roam the sand banks of the North Carolina coast." It is because of their imported history, however, that federal officials do not consider the mustangs a species indigenous to the island."

Learn more about this issue in an article written by Nick DiUlio of the Miller-McCune Magazine.  The article is "All the Pretty Beach Horses".

I realize that there are "down-sides" to having a herd of ponies and horses run wild in nature.  I don't have any idea how to "manage" the situation so that everyone involved in the situation is pleased (including the wild horses - or any wild animal for that matter), but I do think about it and usually I come down on the side of the animals.  I hope that there are others out there like me who give some thought to resources like this, and then speak up for those who have no voice.

Bayou Rescue Assembles Pet Disaster Kits for Central & Orange Chapters of the Red Cross

Bayou Rescue volunteers Delia & Billy supervise the assembly of almost 30 kits for the Central & Orange Chapters of the Red Cross to give to families on the scene of a disaster.  These chapters cover seven NC counties. Last week alone 6 pets from 3 different families benefited from this immediate help after their homes were destroyed in fires.

Delia likes to makes sure each comfort kit gets tasty food AND a fun toy, cause that's important too!  Billy agrees!

Bayou Rescue human volunteers also include a list of local low cost pet care resources, slip leads, kitty litter, bowls, and other essentials.

This batch of pet kits was made possible from "in-kind" donations from volunteer Georgia D., Four Paws Animal Clinic in Chapel Hill, Triangle Pet Supply, and Harris Teeter Meadowmont.

Our goal is to provide 200 of these 'pet comfort kits' to three Red Cross chapters covering 11 counties around the NC triangle.

If you or your group would like to help in this special project, please email mailto:info@bayourescue.org

Pet Insurance - To Have or Not To Have. That's some question!

I've been so fortunate over the course of my adult life to have been the guardian to seven wonderful dogs.  This is over the span of 30 years!  WOW, how did I get that old??

All that being said, each one was and is precious to me, and I was fortunate to be able to provide medical procedures to each one whenever the need arose.  I am sure that I don't need to mention, though, that the cost of everything is going up.  When I first started having the vet trim one of my dog's toenails, the cost was only $5 dollars.  It was a bargain.  Now that same service would cost me about $18 dollars.  I learned to do it myself.  Grant you, though, if my dogs were more difficult to handle, I'd gladly pay the money.

Now comes the question of pet insurance.  I don't have it.  But, I've been thinking about it recently.  Next week, my Phaedra goes in for a teeth cleaning.  Since she's 6 and a half, there will be pre-op blood work for her in addition to the entire cost of the cleaning.  This will set us back at least $300 and maybe more.  I do know that this procedure prolongs the health and longevity of dogs, so I would not skip this procedure.  (I also vow to brush both dogs' teeth at least three times a week from now on!)  Wouldn't it be nice if pet insurance covered this procedure like dental insurance covers people?

My friend told me that she has pet insurance for her 4 dogs.  The cost is around $25 per month per dog to insure the dogs.  But, each year the insurance has more than covered its cost.  That is certainly something to think about, I believe.  I am sure that coverage will be expanding, too, as people ask for more and as more people participate in it.

NPR has a very good article, "Health Insurance: Now For Your Dog, Or Hedghog" by David Kestenbaum. 

This article presents situations where insurance, or not having insurance, played a part in the pet's future.  It also provides an economist's perspective on the situation.  I enjoyed reading the article and it gave me pause to think about the possibilities, once again.  Give it a read, why don't you. 

Are Your Pet's Toys Safe?

Until the last couple of years I never gave a thought to whether or not a commercial pet toy was safe.  Now, I have even gone so far as to only purchase toys from a rather upscale pet store in hopes that they will be more discriminating in what they put on their shelves.  I won't buy toys from some foreign countries because I am not sure that the ingredient listing is accurate.  This certainly does take away from my enthusiastic "shopping spontaneity".  But I'd rather be safe than sorry when it comes to my pets.

The ASPCA's informative article, "Does Lead in Toys Pose a Danger to Pets?" has good information in it.  To put your mind at ease, the article says that, for the most part, surprise ingredients don't usually cause your pets any problems.  While there are some chemicals found in some toys, the level of these ingredients doesn't pose a significant threat to your pet.  Even the old standby, rawhide bones for dogs are found to contain trace amounts of chemicals in them.  These, though, do not pose serious threats to your animals.  There is more danger from your pet swallowing the bone and experiencing an obstruction than there is from ingestion of chemicals. 

Good sense should be applied to cat toys as well.  For instance, pieces of string or feathers may fall off a wand toy for your cat.  Catnip may cause extreme excitement under certain circumstances so that should be monitored as well.  Also, beware of small household items like rubber bands, paper clips, or plastic bags because these could be a choking hazard. (This type of item could be something that dogs like, too.)

Just be aware that you should supervise your pet when he is chewing a bone or playing with a toy. 

Don't Forget - Rabies Is Out There!

Anyone from North Carolina and the immediate states knows that there are many cases each year of animals infected with the rabies virus.  State law in North Carolina also requires that every domestic pet be vaccinated, even if the pet stays indoors.  An article on line at MYFOX8.com caught my eye and I thought I'd remind everyone to check out the vaccination date of your pets.

Guilford County Confirms Ninth Case of Rabies       Staff Writer   MYFOX8.com

"Guilford County is alerting residents that a fox found near North Beech Lane in Greensboro tested positive for the rabies virus.

The rabies case is the ninth this year in Guilford County.

According to health officials, the rabid fox had contact with one dog. The dog is current on its rabies vaccine.

North Carolina law requires all domestic pets be vaccinated against rabies. The law still applies if pets are kept exclusively indoors."  Any animal acting with unusual and aggressive tendencies should be avoided and considered a threat for rabies.

According to WRAL.com, Wake county has reported 15 cases already this year.  The latest episode involved a domesticated cat. 

"Last year, 571 rabies cases were reported across the state. In the first seven months of this year, 400 cases have been reported.

In the Triangle so far this year, Durham has reported four cases, 15 in Wake County and Orange County reports 21 cases -- more than double all of last year."

I am sure that if money is an issue causing someone not to vaccinate a pet, contacting animal services or vet clinics would be a way to receive financial assistance.  There are low-cost programs available to people in need.  Please encourage people you know to make sure pets are vaccinated!

N.C. protects fair's pigs from flu

The SunNews.com reported from the NC State Fair on October 17 that there is some concern from State Fair officials that the animals may be at risk if a person infected with the H1N1 virus visits the competition pens.  While it may seem backwards,  perhaps, think about it for a moment.  If an animal is exposed to the virus and contracts the flu, he will suffer many of the same symptoms that humans do. 

A sign near the competition barns reads: "OUR ANIMALS ARE HEALTHY. ARE YOU?"

Mark Johnson of the McClatchy Newspapers writes, "In a reversal of human and animal roles, N.C. State Fair officials are worried about the spread of flu germs -- from infected humans to the fair's healthy pigs.

The new H1N1 flu virus now has spread so widely that health officials are no longer testing to distinguish it from the seasonal flu. Vaccines, though, have hardly begun to be distributed, and public awareness, if not anxiety, has spiked.

The H1N1 virus is often mislabeled as "swine flu," which initially left the pork industry scrambling to banish fears that people could catch the H1N1 virus from contact with live pigs or by eating ham or bacon. Now, they are more concerned about people transmitting the virus to their animals."

To try to avoid spreading the H1N1 from humans to animals, people who are sick are being asked to avoid contact with the animals in the barns.  There will be hand-washing stations situated so that people can wash up before entering the barn area as well as doing it again after handling the animals. 

To learn more about this turn of events, read the entire article at The SunNews.com.

Mutt Masquerade in Southern Village - Join the parade for lots of fun!

Are you looking for something great to do that will be tons of fun?  Well, maybe the Mutt Masquerade sponsored by a great group of college students, Helping Paws of the Campus Y and the Orange County Animal Services is just what you will enjoy.  The Mutt Masquerade lets you parade with your best friend in a Halloween costume.  There will be prizes, face painting, arts and crafts, and a dog treat bake sale.

What:  Mutt Masquerade
When:  Wednesday, October 28, 2009
Where:  Southern Community Park, Chapel Hill
Time:  4-6:30 pm

So, come out to have fun, enjoy companionship with others who love dogs like you do, and help animals out.

For more information, contact Alex at: ifalexan@gmail.com

Download Mutt Masquerade poster.

Boy, did that sofa arm taste great!

My wonderful dog, Sable, ate a sofa, a chair, and many, many other things before she grew out of the puppy stage.  I think she was about 2 and a half before I never worried about what she might get into when I left the house.  I am actually surprised she never tried to blame her doggie sister, Cuddles.  Fortunately, she lived in a forgiving home so we also used our powers of persuasion in a gentle - albeit not always effective - way.  When your shoes, furniture and clothing are all fair game for your dog's teeth, it can be highly frustrating.

Dr. Jon at PetPlace.com says that "Dogs explore the world through their mouths - new objects, new places & new tastes. Chewing also helps them relieve teething pains, tension and stress.  Most of the time, chewing is just a part of being a normal dog.  Sometimes, though, there are also some instances where chewing could be a sign of stress or physical health issues."

According to Dr. Jon of PetPlace.com, some reasons for chewing because of health issues may including:

1. Boredom - chewing because there's nothing else to do
2. Poor nutrition - chewing on things to get lacking nutrients
3. Separation anxiety/feeling alone - chewing for comfort
4. Gum or tooth problems - continuously chewing on hard objects

There is never one certain way to deal with chewing issues, though.  My family thought that I must have lost my mind when I would go around yelling at the sofa, or a pair of socks that had been chewed while Sable looked on, aghast.  This was just a technique that I had read about somewhere.  I don't know if it really worked, but all of my dogs eventually stopped chewing up furniture and other things that weren't their toys.  What did work best for us, though, was the "doggie den", otherwise known as a crate.  Zoe, at a year and a half, still stays in her den while we are gone.  That works wonderfully!

I found a great resource that had some excellent information about how to work with your dog to stop chewing things.  Give this article a read - I really think you will enjoy it!

Whatever you try to do to stop the chewing, keep in mind that it is up to you to teach your dog what is right to chew on and what isn't.  It is important that you keep in mind that if a dog is not stopped "in the act" she may not have any understanding of why you are upset with her.  Provide lots of appropriate toys for your furry friend.  Also, be sure to take a look at your environment to see what you can do to limit the potential " chew toys".  This is a natural process for your dog.  It will pass, I know.  Hopefully, though, before the sofa is gone!

Brushing my dogs' teeth! Right!!!

Actually, as much as I hate to do the task of brushing Zoe's and Phaedra's teeth, it really isn't all that bad.  And it really helps.  But, I did it only so I wouldn't keel over  when they came up for kisses.  Then, my newsletter from Dr. Jon at PetPlace.com arrived.  If I hadn't been committed to brush their teeth before, I am now.  Here is what he has to say:

"Oral hygiene is essential to your dog's overall health.  Oral disease is very common in pets. In fact, the American Veterinary Dental Society reports that, by the age of three, oral disease is present in up to 80 percent of dogs.  You can significantly reduce your dog's risk of getting oral disease by establishing a healthy oral-care routine early in your pet's life.

According to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), a dog's teeth should be brushed daily; but, because this task can be difficult to do each day, most people don't do it that often (if at all). But experts say some form of regular brushing is better than nothing and, brushing at least every other day is enough to prevent the buildup of tarter on your dog's teeth.

Poor oral hygiene can start a domino effect of health problems for your dog.  Built up bacteria becomes plaque, which eventually becomes tarter.  Periodontal disease is a direct result of bacteria that lives in tarter.  It can lead to a variety of problems including tooth loss, pain, gum disease and bad breath.  It can also contribute to liver, heart and kidney disease.

Protect your pet from the pain and health risks that come from poor dental hygiene, and save yourself the time and expense of additional vet visits.  Brush your dog's teeth regularly.  I understand this isn't always easy and it may take your dog some time to get used to this routine.  I recommend introducing the toothpaste and toothbrush slowly and rewarding your dog for any progress he makes.

When brushing your dog's teeth, do not use human toothpaste.  It can make your dog sick and even poison him.  You want to be sure to use a pet-friendly toothpaste and a toothbrush that's sized to fit your dog's mouth."

I went to my vet hospital and found out what they recommend. I guess there are lots of toothbrushes on the market, but what works best for me is something I slip over my index finger that has soft rubber bristles on the tip. I don't know what it is called, but I like this because I don't feel that they might take out their tonsils if they get rambunctious!  It gives me more control and doesn't scare the girls.  Maybe there is something out there for you and your dog.

Dr. Jon also mentioned in my newsletter that brushing a dog's teeth at least 3 times a week can potentially add 5 years to the dog's life.  Sign me up!  That's certainly worth a little bit of time and discipline to me!

Hiking with your pet - and keeping her safe!

I was checking out the ASPCA website just now, and came across a great little article about taking your dog with you on a hike in this wonderful season and how to keep the dog safe.  I always think about situations that might arise and make sure that I have plans for the "what ifs" that might occur.  For instance, I was hiking at Jordan Lake with my dog on her leash.  Around the bend in the trail, a large dog bounded with a loud bark.  I definitely felt threatened and looked around for a stick or something I might use to defend my dog and myself.  Another man who had been hiking closely behind me came to stand beside us as the dog kept on coming.  Just then, the loose dog's parents came around the corner and saw their dog approaching us.  They whistled and the dog ran back to them; they put the dog's leash on.  This was a well trained dog who responded to the call of his owner.  What if he hadn't been?  That's only one time that I've been "surprised" at the blatant disregard for others' comfort by some dog owners. 

The following information comes straight from the ASPCA website.  If you enjoy what you read below, you can access the full article at ASPCA Hiking Safety Tips.

"What better way to spend a fall day than hiking with your best friend—your best canine friend, that is! Sure, the fall season is a great time for hikers to get outside and enjoy the beauty of changing colors, but it’s also the perfect way to spend quality time with your pet. Dogs love to explore our country’s vast natural beauty as much their two-legged counterparts—not to mention, hiking is great exercise for all. But remember, a hiking trail isn’t your average walk around the block. There are some real dangers associated with this seasonal pastime, including heat exhaustion, potential falls and the possibility of getting lost.

Lucky for you and your pooch, our experts have come up with a list of safety tips to keep your hikes safe and fun.

Here’s a sneak peek:

Use Proper Leashes

Extending leashes are great for wide open spaces, but if your romp is taking you through wooded areas, it’s best to leave the flexi-leads at home. Otherwise, you’ll probably spend more time untangling your dog’s leash from trees and brush than you will enjoying your walk!

Drink Plenty of Fluids

Both you and your pooch need to stay hydrated, so bring enough water for two. Don’t allow your pup to drink from puddles, ponds, lakes or streams—they may contain parasites or toxins that could cause harm.

IDs Please

Whether you’re using a leash or not, don’t forget IDs, please! Always make sure that your current contact information, including your cell phone number, is attached to your dog’s collar or body harness. If for any reason your pet gets lost, a collar and tags and a microchip will increase the likelihood that he or she will be returned to you.

Keep Vaccinations Up-to-Date

You never know what you may encounter on a hike—so before setting out into the wilderness, check your pet’s veterinary records and make sure his vaccinations are up-to-date."

So, if you liked what you read from the short ASPCA article, check out the more detailed information at ASPCA Hiking Safety Tips.