Pacemaker saves dog's life

A part of medical technology that has been used on humans only, is now something that can save a pets life. A pacemaker has been used to save a little dog's life in Tucszon, AZ. Zack, a 10 year old Yorkie had the coin-sized battery-operated pacemaker installed at a clinic in San Diego.

At a price of about $3,000, some will think this is only small change to save their pet's life.

Vivi the Whippet still being sighted in NYC

Almost 5 months ago, on February 15th, a Whippet on his way home from Westminster, was still being sighted. Vivi, the Whippet, bolted out of the airport just before she was to board a plane home to California with her owner, Jil Walton.

Dogs at work give employers more productivity

Would you work a longer day if you could bring your dog to work? Recent survey says yes... workers would put in more hours if their best friends were sleeping under their desks at the office.

Insurance for stolen or missing pets

Dog theft is on the rise in England according to the Missing Pets Bureau of Surrey, England.

Started 6 years by Rupert Honeywood, this organization allows people to insure their pets against theft and loss. A unique idea that could be very popular in the states if a large percentage of people didn't have that inherent belief that dogs are expendable.

Frasier's K-9 star, Eddie, dies

Eddie, the Jack Russell terrier star of TV's "Fransier", has died. This little Jack Russell brought laughs to many fans of the show and popularized the breed in the states. The 16-year-old terrier, whose real name was Moose, passed away of old age Thursday at the Los Angeles home of trainer Mathilde Halberg.

Digby the Dog - a video diary

I guess everybody deserves to have their own blog... and that includes dogs. Digby the dog has his own blog. This British pooch not only has a role in a West End London play - The furry star of 'See How They Run' has a video diary.

My Dog Votes!

You gotta love it!

I think they got it... My Dog Votes!

What a simple concept, what an impact this could make.


This campaign started up in Canada with people who are tired of politicians taking away our rights to own pets and punishing the good owners instead of the careless and bad owners. We don't have to vote for a politician that does not represent our concerns ... but we need to let them know why we aren't voting for them.

This site will also link you to a list of 2006 upcoming elections in Canada and the United States.

Anti-dog legislation begins on a local level. If you don't get control there, you never will.

Canned Dog Food Recall

Another pet food company, Simmons Pet Food, Inc., has just issued a voluntary recall on thousands of cans of wet dog food manufactured under the names:

• Ol'Roy
• Pot Luck
• Fit and Active
• Twin Pet
• American Fare
• Strongheart

The affected cans show "use by" dates between March 16, 2008, and June 6, 2008. Simmons officials said the company discovered an issue regarding random flaking of the inside coating of the can. The company said the incidence rate is less than 0.1 percent.

The company has recalled the following products:

• 22oz. Pot Luck Canned Pet Food UPC 72562326232
• 22oz. Fit and Active Hearty Loaf with Beef UPC 072562328229
• 22oz. Fit and Active Hearty Loaf with Chicken UPC 072562378224
• 22oz. Fred's Canine Cuisine Dog Food Prime Entr?e Cuts with Beef UPC 084579100163 (Use By Date 05/08/08 only)
• 22oz. Twin Pet with Beef Dog and Puppy Food UPC 071682241234
• 22oz. Twin Pet with Beef - Liver Flavor Dog and Puppy Food UPC 071682241333
• 22oz. American Fare Dinner with Turkey and Bacon UPC 07200019342 (Use By Date 04/05/08 only)
• 22oz. American Fare Chunky Dinner with Beef and Bacon UPC 07200019344 (Use By Date 04/05/08 only)
• 22oz. American Fare Chunky Dinner with Beef UPC 07200019341 (Use By Date 04/05/08 only)
• 22oz. American Fare Country Stew with Beef UPC 07200019343 (Use By Date 04/05/08 only)
• 22oz. Strongheart Beef Flavor Dog Food UPC 071682641232
• 22oz. Ol'Roy Beef Flavor UPC 0068113189763 and UPC 072562350237
• 22oz. Ol'Roy Chicken Flavor UPC 0068113189762 and UPC 072562349231
• 22oz. Ol'Roy Hearty Loaf with Chopped Beef UPC 0068113189770
• 22oz. Ol'Roy Hearty Loaf Chopped Meaty Combo UPC 0068113189771

Consumers may return the items to the place where they were purchased for a refund or replacement.

Vaccine maker recalls rabies doses

Veterinarians to notify pet owners about shots
story by
STELLA M. HOPKINS

shopkins@charlotteobserver.com

A leading rabies vaccine manufacturer has voluntarily recalled about 330,000 doses sold nationwide after a vaccinated dog contracted the deadly disease.

"They don't know why ... the animal contracted rabies," said Kelly Goss, a spokeswoman for Fort Dodge Animal Health, based in Overland Park, Kan., and a division of health care giant Wyeth. "In the best interest of pet owners and animals, we made a decision to voluntarily recall that product."

The company mailed notices to veterinarians on May 25, and will reimburse them for revaccination, Goss said. Doctors are notifying pet owners to bring in animals for free shots.
Fort Dodge began selling the recalled batch in January 2005. Goss didn't know how many vets bought the problem lot. Fort Dodge tested batches of vaccine with serial numbers issued around that of the affected lot and found no problems, she said.

Animals at greatest risk are outdoor pets and those such as puppies and kittens, who received the recalled medication as their first and only vaccination, said Dr. Steve Marks of the N.C. State University College of Veterinary Medicine in Raleigh.

"If that initial vaccination did not work, then they're ... at risk for rabies," he said.
Notified pet owners should act quickly to have their animal revaccinated, Marks said, but he cautioned against panic.

"Just call your veterinarian if you're in doubt," he said.

What This Means to Pet Owners

Fort Dodge Animal Health recalled rabies vaccine
Rabvac 3 TF, serial number 873113A

Your vet should notify you if your pet was vaccinated with the problem batch. You can also check the rabies certificate that you should have received, which lists the manufacturer and serial number.

NC dog owners, please read -HB 2098 being read tomorrow in the Agriculture Committee

I am not sure how this proposed legislation snuck in the back door, but it is very dangerous legislation.

HB 2098 was scheduled for to be read on the floor today after passing through the Agriculture Committee. However, it is back on tomorrow's calendar.

HB 2098 - Protection of Animals
http://www.ncleg.net/Sessions/2005/Bills/House/HTML/H2098v2.htm l
The NC Federation of Dog Clubs urge all who are concerned to email Representatives Ross, Hill, and Insko as well as your County Rep before the bill is read tomorrow.

This is the companion piece toS669 in the 2003-2004 Session which allows a third party to file suit to remove animals for cruelty. please note that they only have to consult with the animals owners if the animal needs to be euthanized.

You stand to lose any rights you have, once accused of animal cruelty-whetheror not you are guilty! (S669 allows 3rd parties to file suit to remove foranimal cruelty). Anyone can accuse you of animal cruelty. Anyone!
Anyone can get “custody” of your animals and then, with the court’s permission, charge you for ALL of the upkeep and medical care of the custody of your dogs - whatever your accuser deems as necessary.

Your accuser may take your animals, force you to pay for their upkeeppending trial, and vet them as they see fit--the bill says "consult with or attempt to consult with--you do not have to be notified unless your animals need to be euthanized. This wording can be construed to mean spayed/neutered, as removal of reproductive organs is "necessary medical care".This legislation is combined with much needed dog fighting legislation - two totally different areas of dog ownership. Below is a url listing the things wrong with this legislation and who to contact about this bill.


http://www.moordair.com/Information_for_NC/NC%20Proposed%20Bills%20Fight%20Or%20Save.htm

Disaster Preparedness

In the June AKC Chairman's report, it mentions that the Department of Homeland Security has created a brochure to help owners prepare themselves and their pets in the event of a disaster.

After Katrina, it became very evident that the American public is very devoted to their pets and do not want to leave them behind. From the AKC website....

"AKC has teamed up with DHS to create a tri-fold brochure titled, “Ready Pets” to educate owners on disaster preparedness. Unveiled last month by DHS Under Secretary for Preparedness George W. Foresman, the brochure highlights the key steps pet owners should take to prepare themselves and their animals. A printable version is available on our website as part of our new disaster preparedness page at www.akc.org."

I know I plan to print out a copy and make sure the vets I use get a copy. If we share this plan with as many dog oriented groups as possible, we would be doing a great service to people and pets that might be affected by any type of disaster.

Hurricane season officially started June 1st.

DISASTER PREPAREDNESS FOR ANIMAL OWNERS - August 26th

DISASTER PREPAREDNESS FOR ANIMAL OWNERS
Saturday, August 26, 2006

North Carolinians face potential weather-related disaster scenarios throughout the year - thunderstorms, tornadoes, hurricanes, floods and winter storms to name a few. You may be required to leave your home at moment's notice as a hurricane approaches - or perhaps be confined to your home for an extended period of time after a devastating winter storm. Is your whole family, including your animals, prepared?

Attend this one-day course at the North Carolina School of Veterinary Medicine and learn how to include your animals in your family's disaster planning. Be prepared to take action to protect and care for your animals before, during, and after an emergency situation occurs.

Registration
Registration for this course is $30. Registration includes a proceedings manual and lunch. The course is limited to 100 attendees. A registration form is available here.

Location
This course will be held at the NC State College of Veterinary Medicine at 4700 Hillsborough Street in Raleigh, NC.

Continuing Education
Because this course is intended to be for laypeople, veterinarians and veterinary technicians may not earn CVME.

ADA Statement
If you are a person with a disability and desire any assistive devices, services or other accommodations to participate in the activity, please contact Samantha Hartford to discuss your needs at least 30 days prior to the event.

Bird Flu

If you read the news or watch TV, you are aware of the Doomsday warnings about the Bird Flu. Or are you?

We think we live in a modern country that will surely take care of us in the case of a disaster. But did our government spring to the aid of Gulf Shore residents last year during Katrina?

We have vaccines for the flu. We have some of the most cutting edge medical research centers in the world. Or do we?.

I watched Oprah the other night and it scared me.

The government has put up a web site for us to read and learn about the next pandemic flu.

What is being stressed everywhere is not IF there will be a pandemic flu, but WHEN. It may not be the bird flu, but it will be some type of flu. It will kill millions. We - and other countries - are unprepared for this. Our government has done nothing but stress to the public that we will be on our own.

Wow. That is my tax dollar at work. I bet congress will get a sufficient supply of vaccines. I just hope that hospital workers will be included in the list of necessary personnel.

What I am getting to in a round about way is, it is up to you to make sure your family has a disaster plan. And your family includes your four-legged companions.

The last pandemic flu that we had in the US was one we were not prepared for either. That flu skipped a species and went directly from bird to man.

On March 21, 2006 HHS Secretary Mike Leavitt and Governor Mike Easley signed a Planning Resolution detailing HHS' and North Carolina's shared and independent responsibilities for pandemic planning.

Remember, when planning emergency food, water, medication, and supplies - include your pet's needs as well.

Death pardon for a Golden mix

If this had been any breed except a Golden Retriever mix....

A 3 year old boy from Portsmouth, VA was bitten in the face by his father's roommate's dog yesterday (you following this?). The boy will require extensive plastic surgery. The dog is in quarantine, but was not taken into cutstody because they did not feel he was a threat to anyone else.

So, we either have a wild child who harrassed a dog, or the reputation of a Golden Retriever to thank for the death pardon on this dog.

Patricia Cornwell Donates $1 Million to Cornell Vet School Hospital

The Patricia Cornwell Intensive Care Unit for the Cornell Companion Animal Hospital is Dedicated

A Gift of $1 Million From the Author Is Celebrated to Support Animals in Need

ITHACA, N.Y., June 7 /PRNewswire/ -- Cornell University Hospital for Animals at the College of Veterinary Medicine has announced the dedication of The Patricia Cornwell Intensive Care Unit for Companion Animals. A gift of$1 million by Patricia Cornwell, the award-winning author and former crime reporter, will be honored with the installation of a naming plaque on June 9, Cornwell's 50th birthday.

(Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20060607/NYW091 )

Cornwell's affinity for animals in need as well as her commitment and advocacy for causes such as forensic research, victims' support and animal rescue, have been well recognized through her contribution to several institutions, including Cornell's College of Veterinary Medicine.

The gift to Cornell was pledged after Cornwell brought her beloved English bulldog Booboo to the Cornell Companion Animal Hospital where he received excellent care and compassion from Cornell veterinary internist Dr. Richard Goldstein and the hospital's clinicians. Cornwell returned with another English bulldog Okey, and was again impressed with the level of excellence at the Cornell Companion Animal Hospital. Okey was rescued with one eye blinded and totally deaf due to neglect, but his treatment at Cornell helped improve the quality of his life.

"Cornell is the place to go, without a doubt, if there's something wrong with one of your animals," said Cornwell. When people ask her why go to all that trouble for one dog, she responds, "I believe you look at the life in front of you, and do what you can. That's what they do at Cornell."

Thanks to Cornwell's generous gift, a wireless server was installed that beams magnetic resonance images, computed tomography(CT) scans, ultrasounds and radiographic images throughout the Companion Animal Hospital. This critical technology upgrade allows the medical team to quickly view and share images, which in turn speeds up the diagnosis and treatment of patients.

More than 17,000 animals are treated at the Companion Animal Hospital every year, and in an emergency or when the patient is critical, every second counts. Cornwell's support has improved patient care and provided an incredible teaching tool for Cornell's veterinary students.

"We are honored to have the Intensive Care Unit for Companion Animals named for Patricia Cornwell," said Dr. Donald F. Smith, Cornell's Austin O. Hooey Dean of Veterinary Medicine. "Her generous support ensures the Companion Animal Hospital will continue to lead the way in integrating scientific research and clinical applications to advance the health of animals and people."

Patricia Cornwell is a No. 1 New York Times bestselling author of fiction and nonfiction. She has achieved international acclaim for such bestsellers as Predator, Trace and Portrait of a Killer: Jack The Ripper - Case Closed. Her latest No. 1 New York Times bestseller, At Risk, was published by G. P. Putnam's Sons on May 23.

For more information about Patricia Cornwell, visit http://www.patriciacornwell.com/.

SOURCE Cornell University Hospital for Animals at the College of Veterinary
Medicine-0- 06/07/2006
/CONTACT: Cornell: Sabina Lee, +1-607-255-3024
Cell:+1-607-227-3341, ssl37@cornell.edu;
or Contact for Patricia Cornwell:
Mih-Ho Cha,
+1-781-862-9833, Mih-Ho.Cha@us.penguingroup.com,
for CornellUniversity Hospital for Animals at the College of Veterinary Medicine/
/Photo: NewsCom: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20060607/NYW091
AP Archive: http://photoarchive.ap.org
AP PhotoExpress Network: PRN2
PRN Photo Desk, photodesk@prnewswire.com /
/Web site: http://www.patriciacornwell.com /

AKC comes out in support of "Pets Evacuation and Transportation Standards Act of 2006"

AKC Endorses and Supports S. 2548, The "Pets Evacuation and Transportation Standards Act of 2006" (PETS)

With predictions for another above-average hurricane season in 2006, and AKC survey results showing that an overwhelming majority of pet owners will refuse evacuation orders unless they can take their pets with them, the AKC is pleased to endorse and support the recently introduced S. 2548, the "Pet Evacuation and Transportation Standards Act of 2006", known as "PETS".

PETS amends the federal Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act to require provisions for rescue, care, shelter and essential needs of pets and service animals and their families in emergency and disaster relief, and to require that such provisions be included in federal, state and local emergency and disaster preparedness plans.

PETS was introduced in the Senate April 5, 2006 by Senator Ted Stevens (R-AK) and Frank Lautenberg (D-NJ) and already has 12 additional co-sponsors. The legislation was referred to the Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs, which has not yet taken action on the bill. However, both Sen. Stevens and Lautenberg are members of the Committee, and action is expected this session. The AKC has written members of the Committee urging quick action on the legislation.

A similarly named, but significantly weaker, bill was enacted by the House of Representatives on May 22, 2006.

However, if the Senate passes its version of PETS, the stronger Senate bill is likely to be adopted by the conference committee. While the House bill merely requires governmental entities to "take into account" pets and household with pets in preparing disaster plans, the Senate bill mandates that they be included, and includes authorization for funding for pets and people with pets in emergency shelter facilities planning, leasing and construction as well as planning.

The AKC urges all fanciers to contact the offices of your U.S. Senators and ask them to co-sponsor S. 2548 if they have not already done so, and promptly enact the bill. It is important to contact all Senators, but it is especially important if he or she is a member of the Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs, which has jurisdiction over the bill.

A list of Committee Members and a list of co-sponsors of S. 2548 as of June 1, 2006 follows:

Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Government Affairs

Please click on the Senator's name to send an email in support of PETS.
Susan M. Collins (R-ME), Chair
Ted Stevens (R-AK)
George V. Voinovich (R-OH)
Norm Coleman (R-MN)
Tom Coburn (R-OK)
Lincoln D. Chafee (R-RI)
Robert Bennett (R-UT)
Pete V. Domenici (R-MN)
John W. Warner (R-VA)
Joseph I. Lieberman (D-CT) Ranking Mem.
Carl Levin (D-MI)
Daniel K. Akaka (D-HI)
Thomas R. Carper (D-DE)
Mark Dayton (D-MN)
Frank R. Lautenberg (D-NJ)
Mark Pryor (D-AR)

Co-Sponsors of S. 2548 (as of June 1, 2006)
Ted Stevens (R-AK) Sponsor
Pat Roberts (R-KS)
Robert C. Byrd (D-WV)
Maria Cantwell (D-WA)
Kent Conrad (D-ND)
Christopher J. Dodd (D-CT)
John Ensign (R-NV)
Dianne Feinstein (D-CA)
James M. Jeffords (I-VT)
Tim Johnson (D-SD)F
rank R. Lautenberg (D-NJ)
Carl Levin (D-MI)
Joseph I. Lieberman (D-CT)
Robert Menendez (D-NJ)

Let's get this bill to pass! Do your part.

Dog Flu Impacting Dog Raicing Tracks

The dog flu, labeled Kennel Cough in this South Florida Business Journal article, indicates that the dog tracks are being hit hard already this year with more outbreaks of the dog flu. The dog flu hit the tracks last year from Miami to Oregon.

Police learn a new language!

Just read an article about a Police Department in Bristol, UK that purchased (or as they said, recruited) three dogs from Holland. The dogs were 2 Dutch Shepherds and 1 Belgian Malinois. So the officers had to learn a "new language".

Sigh... and who signed the Purchase Order?

Canine Mutiny: Dog Owners Fight Insurers

From the Wall Street Journal...

Canine Mutiny: Dog Owners Fight Insurers
By M. P. MCQUEEN
June 1, 2006; Page D1

Dog owners are biting back at the insurance industry.

There is a push by lawmakers and animal-welfare groups to ban the growing insurance-industry practice of refusing to write homeowners' policies for people who own dogs of certain breeds. Some big insurers, including Allstate Corp. and Farmers Insurance Group, won't cover homes in some states if certain breeds are present.

Others exclude the breeds from liability coverage or charge extra for it. The so-called vicious-breed lists include such popular pooches as German shepherds, Akitas and Siberian huskies, along with Alaskan Malamutes, Chow Chows, Doberman Pinschers, American pit bull terriers and their cousins.

The practice is spurring rising complaints by dog owners that their homeowners' and renters' policies have been dropped, or they have been denied coverage, because their dog is on the list. They say the rules unfairly link well-behaved family pets with aggressive miscreants responsible for high-profile attacks.

At least nine states, including Kentucky, Maine, Michigan, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Tennessee, Vermont, and Wisconsin, now have bills pending that would prevent insurance companies from dropping or refusing customers because of their dog's breed. In Massachusetts, a proposed bill has been set aside for further study. (Insurance rules and rates are state-regulated.)

In 2003, the Michigan insurance commissioner issued an administrative ruling banning the practice in that state. The legislation is supported by animal-welfare organizations including the Humane Society of the United States, the American Kennel Club, and local pet and breeders' advocacy groups.

Insurers, who mostly oppose legislative efforts to alter their dog- breed policies, argue that government public-health studies and their own claims histories indicate that some breeds are more dangerous than others, and therefore pose higher risk of claims for injury and loss. Limiting insurers' exposure to those risks helps keep premiums more affordable for everyone, insurance officials say.

For owners of these breeds, the insurers' rules seem infuriatingly arbitrary. Terri Becker of Lake Arrowhead, Calif., said she has been turned down for coverage by several insurers recently. Ms. Becker, who owns three mixed-breed dogs, says The Hartford Financial Services Group Inc., refused her application last year because one of the dogs was part-Chow.
"I can have a gun, but I can't have a Chow. That's kind of crazy," she said.

A spokesman for The Hartford, Joe Loparco, said that the company won't provide new coverage in most states to owners of Presa Canarios, Rottweilers and pit bulls, but that Chows aren't excluded. He also said that without knowing the specifics of the case, he couldn't address Ms. Becker's complaint.

The insurance battle comes as debate is erupting in cities, states, and courtrooms over whether to target certain breeds. More than 100 counties and cities have passed ordinances since 1991 banning or restricting ownership of specific breeds -- especially pit bulls -- or requiring that owners carry large amounts of liability insurance.

This year through March alone, 65 such measures were proposed, far outpacing the number for the same period last year, according to the AKC. Dog owners and animal-rights groups have challenged many of these laws in court, and some laws have been struck down. In March, an appeals court in Ohio ruled that local and state laws banning or restricting ownership of pit-bull dogs were unconstitutionally vague.

Some pet advocates and insurance officials say companies started blacklisting breeds shortly after a series of highly publicized dog attacks, such as the Diane Whipple case. Ms. Whipple, 33, was mauled to death in 2001 by a neighbor couple's Presa Canario, a fighting breed that is often snubbed by insurers. The case is regarded as a landmark because the dog owners were convicted of manslaughter in connection with the vicious attack.

Dogs bite an estimated 4.7 million people in the United States annually, 800,000 seriously enough to require medical attention.

About 40% of victims are children. Dog bites were responsible for $317.2 million in claims in 2005, an average of more than $21,000 each. They comprise 15% of liability claims, which in turn are about 4% of total claims, according to the Insurance Information Institute, a nonprofit industry research and information group.

Homeowner and rental policies typically provide between $100,000 and $300,000 of liability coverage for dog bites.

Some insurers cite a 2000 study conducted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention of 20 years of fatal attacks by dogs on humans. It found that pit-bull-related breeds and Rottweilers were involved in more than half of the 238 dog-attack deaths between 1979 and 1998.

But the study's authors, including Julie Gilchrist, say that public and private policymakers have drawn flawed conclusions from it. Dr. Gilchrist said the study wasn't designed to determine which are the most dangerous dog breeds and didn't establish bite-fatality rates for the breeds it named. "You can't say that one breed is more likely to bite (than another)," she said.

Dr. Gilchrist, a pediatrician, said the involvement of some breeds in more attacks may reflect the sheer prevalence of those breeds.

Other factors, such as training and neutering, are more relevant than breed, she said, noting that owners choose and train some dogs for aggression. The CDC has posted a notice on its Web site trying to discourage lawmakers and others from using the study to ban specific breeds.

Adam Goldfarb, issues specialist for the Humane Society of the United States, agrees. "According to the CDC, more than 70% of the dogs involved in attacks are unneutered males," he said. "No other statistic is as big as that." Mr. Goldfarb said the Humane Society might support insurability criteria that looked at whether a dog has been spayed or neutered, has been obedience-trained, or is chained outside (a factor in many attacks.)

Some longtime dog owners said they had owned controversial breeds for years without incident when insurance companies suddenly decided to cut them loose. Veterinarian Gary Lainer of Canton, Mass., said six of his clients had been dropped by insurers recently, including a Rottweiler owner in a crime-ridden section of Brockton who had bought the dog to help make his home safer. Most eventually found coverage but they had to pay "much, much more," Mr. Lainer said.

Not every insurer limits coverage for owners of certain breeds. State Farm Insurance Cos., the largest issuer of homeowner policies in the U.S., and Fireman's Fund Insurance Co., a subsidiary of Allianz AG, don't consider the breed of dog when issuing policies.

Meanwhile, Farmers Insurance Group, the third-largest home insurer by market share, excludes several dog breeds from coverage in five of the 41 states in which it does business. The company has had "above average losses" connected with dogs of those breeds in those states, said spokeswoman Mary Flynn. Nationwide Mutual Insurance Co., the fourth-largest insurer, also has a list of banned breeds, but owners can be exempted by having their dog pass an American Kennel Club-approved "Canine Good Citizenship" test.

Specialty insurers known as "excess and surplus lines" carriers, which tend to charge more for coverage, seldom exclude dogs from coverage by breed, said Dave Evans, senior vice president of the Independent Insurance Agents and Brokers Association of the United States, a trade group. With many companies offering homeowners insurance, consumers should shop around, perhaps with the help of an independent insurance agent, who can compare policies from various companies.

Write to M. P. McQueen at mari.mcqeen@wsj.com

Avoiding Heat Related Injuries in Dogs

Avoiding Heat Related Injuries in Dogs
Nate Baxter DVM

The first thing that needs to be understood is that dogs and people are different enough that most of the info cannot cross lines. I do not profess to know what the appropriate procedures for people other than what I learned in first aid.

Dogs do not lose enough electrolytes thru exercise to make a difference, but if the dog gets truly into heat stroke, the physiology changes will make them necessary. BUT oral replacement at that point is futile, they need IV and lots of it.

Cooling: Evaporative cooling is the most efficient mean of cooling. However, in a muggy environment, the moisture will not evaporate so cooling does not happen well. I cool with the coldest water I can find and will use ice depending on the situation. The best way is to run water over the dog, so there is always fresh water in contact. When you immerse a dog in a tub, the water trapped in the hair coat will get warm next to the dog, and act as an insulator against the cool water and cooling stops. If you can run water over the dog and place it in front of a fan that is the best. Misting the dog with water will only help if you are in a dry environment or in front of a fan. Just getting the dog wet is not the point, you want the water to be cool itself, or to evaporate.

For MOST situations all you will need to do is get the dog in a cooler environment, ie, shade, or in the cab of the truck with the air conditioningon (driving around so the truck does not overheat and the AC is more efficient). Up to a couple of years ago, I was very concerned about my dogs getting too hot in the back of my black pickup with a black cap. New white truck fixed a lot of that problem. When I had one dog, I just pulled the wire crate out of the car and put it in some shade and hopefully a breeze. But having 2 dogs, and running from one stake to another, that was not feasible. So I built a platform to put the wire crates on, this raises the dog up in the truck box where the air flow is better. Then I placed a 3 speed box fan in front, blowing on the dogs with a foot of space to allow better air flow. I purchased a power inverter that connects to the battery and allows the 3 speed fan to run from the truck power. It has an automatic feature that prevents it from draining the battery. When I turned that fan on medium, I would find that the dogs were asleep, breathing slowly and appeared very relaxed and comfortable in a matter of 20 minutes or less, even on very hot muggy days.

Alcohol: I do carry it for emergencies. It is very effective at cooling due to the rapid evaporation. It should be used when other methods are not working. You should be on your way to the veterinarian before you get to this point. We recommend using rubbing alcohol, which is isopropyl alcohol, not ethyl, for those of you not aware. So do not try to drink it. Alcohol should be used on the pads and lower feet area where there is little more than skin and blood vessels over the bones. Use a little bit and let it evaporate, you can use too much as some is absorbed through the skin. There are concerns about toxicity, but you have to get the temperature down.

UPDATE NOTE: Alcohol has fallen out of favor with ER specialists, use it onlyas a last ditch effort if nothing else works.

I purchased those cooling pads, but found that the dogs would not lay on them. I would hold them on the back of a dog - that just worked to get a quick cool, but have not use them for years. I also bought a pair of battery operated fans but found them pretty useless. Spend your money on the power inverter and get a real fan.

Watching temperature: If you feel your dog is in danger of heat injury, check its temp and write it down. Keep checking the temp every 3 minutes. I recommend to get a "rectal glass thermometer". The digital ones for the drugstore I have found to be very unreliable. Don't forget to shake it down completely each time, sounds silly, but when you are worried about your companion, things tend to get mixed up.

This is VERY IMPORTANT** once the temp STARTS to drop, STOP ALL COOLING EFFORTS.

The cooling process will continue even though you have stopped. If the temp starts at 106.5, and then next time it drops to 105.5, stop cooling the dog, dry it off, and continue monitoring. You will be amazed how it continues to go down. If you do not stop until the temp is 102, the temp will drop way too low. I can not emphasis this point enough.

When the dog is so heated that it is panting severely, only let it have a few laps of water. Water in the stomach does not cool the dog, you just need to keep the mouth wet so the panting is more effective.

Do not worry about hydration until the temp has started down. A dog panting heavily, taking in large amounts of water, is a risk of bloat. Due to the heavy panting, they will swallow air, mixed with a large amount of water and they can bloat. Once the temp is going down and panting has slowed to more normal panting, then allow water. The dog will rehydrate itself after temp is normal. If the dog has a serious problem, and even though you have gotten the temp normal, get the dog to a vet, as it can still need IV fluids and some medication.

Also, a case of heat stroke can induce a case of hemorrhagic gastroenteritis (not parvo), with a ton of very bloody diarrhea and a lot of fluid and electrolyte loss. These cases need aggressive treatment. The best method of treatment is prevention. Learn to watch your dog, and see the changes in the size of the tongue, and how quickly it goes down. Learn your dogs response to the different environments, and be careful when you head south for an early season hunt test or trial. I have been to Nashville at the end of May, only 5 hours away, but the difference in temp and humidity did effect the dogs as they were used to more spring weather in Ohio.

Try different things in training to help the dog cool and learn what works better. Another very important point -- Do not swim your hot dog to cool it, then put in put in a box/tight crate. Remember, evaporation can not take place in a tight space, and the box will turn into a sauna and you will cook your dog. Carry a stake out chain, and let the dog cool and dry before putting it up. I know this is a bit long, but hopefully this is easy to understand and helps provide some useful information.

Remember: Prevention, learn your dog. It is worth the time and effort.

Nate Baxter, DVM
Lebanon, OH

***This is an article that Dr. Baxter wrote a few years ago, he checked it over and it should still be pretty accurate.

Feel free to cross post, use in club newsletters, etc, without any further permission.

Feeding Dogs Raw in Durham?

I used to be a distributor for Oma's Raw Foods until I moved to Durham and where I live currently - a tractor trailer can not access my place... so I thought there might be others that would like to know about my "secret stash" of suppliers in the Triangle area. Today, I will be listing a few places in Durham. The prices I list are for today and not guaranteed.

Cliff’s Meat Market
(919)942-2196
Carrboro, NC

marrow bones: $0.49 -$0.59/lb
leg quarters: $13/40lbs
chicken necks - 40lb case - $0.29 per lb
chicken backs - 40lb case - $0.29 per lb
turkey necks - 30lb case - $0.39 per lb
(he charges $8 per case to grind any of these meats, and will split a case half and half)

Tom Inscoe Wholesale Meat
(919) 544-1250
4130 S Alston Ave
Durham, NC

turkey necks: $17.70/30lbs
pork necks: $20.70/30lbs
chicken necks: $0.39/lb
chicken leg quarters: $0.39/lb
They also have whole chickens, chicken feet, chicken livers, chicken gizards, pig ears, tails, ribs, feet and lots of other stuff.

National Dog Bite Prevention Week

We are smack dab in the middle of the National Dog Bite Prevention Week - May 21st through May 27th.

An estimated 4.7 million people are bitten by dogs each year, with 800,000 individuals—half of them children—requiring medical treatment.

Man and woman's best friend bites more than 4.7 million people a year, and key experts believe that public education can help prevent these bites. The third full week of May is National Dog Bite Prevention Week, and the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), the United States Postal Service, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention are each working to educate Americans about dog bite prevention.

Each year, 800,000 Americans seek medical attention for dog bites; half of these are children. Of those injured, 386,000 require treatment in an emergency department and about a dozen die. The rate of dog bite-related injuries is highest for children ages 5 to 9 years, and the rate decreases as children age. Almost two thirds of injuries among children ages four years and younger are to the head or neck region. Injury rates in children are significantly higher for boys than for girls. (See CDC MMWR article.)

CDC is committed to reducing this public health problem by working with state health departments to establish dog bite prevention programs and by tracking and reporting trends on U.S. dog bite injuries. Dog bites are a largely preventable public health problem, and adults and children can learn to reduce their chances of being bitten.

Things to Consider Before You Get a Dog:

• Consult with a professional (e.g., veterinarian, animal behaviorist, or responsible breeder) to learn about suitable breeds of dogs for your household.
• Dogs with histories of aggression are inappropriate in households with children.
• Be sensitive to cues that a child is fearful or apprehensive about a dog and, if so, delay acquiring a dog.
• Spend time with a dog before buying or adopting it. Use caution when bringing a dog into the home of an infant or toddler.
• Spay/neuter virtually all dogs (this frequently reduces aggressive tendencies).
• Never leave infants or young children alone with any dog.
• Do not play aggressive games with your dog (e.g., wrestling).
• Properly socialize and train any dog entering the household. Teach the dog submissive behaviors (e.g., rolling over to expose abdomen and relinquishing food without growling).
• Immediately seek professional advice (e.g., from veterinarians, animal behaviorists, or responsible breeders) if the dog develops aggressive or undesirable behaviors.
  
  Preventing Dog Bites:
• Teach children basic safety around dogs and review regularly:
• Do not approach an unfamiliar dog.
• Do not run from a dog and scream.
• Remain motionless (e.g., "be still like a tree") when approached by an unfamiliar dog.
• If knocked over by a dog, roll into a ball and lie still (e.g., "be still like a log").
• Do not play with a dog unless supervised by an adult.
• Immediately report stray dogs or dogs displaying unusual behavior to an adult.
• Avoid direct eye contact with a dog.
• Do not disturb a dog who is sleeping, eating, or caring for puppies.
• Do not pet a dog without allowing it to see and sniff you first.
• If bitten, immediately report the bite to an adult.
  

A CDC study on fatal dog bites lists the breeds involved in fatal attacks over 20 years (Breeds of dogs involved in fatal human attacks in the United States between 1979 and 1998). It does not identify specific breeds that are most likely to bite or kill, and thus is not appropriate for policy-making decisions related to the topic.

Each year, 4.7 million Americans are bitten by dogs. These bites result in approximately 12 fatalities; about 0.0002 percent of the total number of people bitten. These relatively few fatalities offer the only available information about breeds involved in dog bites. There is currently no accurate way to identify the number of dogs of a particular breed, and consequently no measure to determine which breeds are more likely to bite or kill.

Many practical alternatives to breed-specific policies exist and hold promise for preventing dog bites. For prevention ideas and model policies for control of dangerous dogs, please see the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) Task Force on Canine Aggression and Human-Canine Interactions: A community approach to dog bite prevention.

Free Food

Known as the Coupon Queen in my other lives, I have to share this one with all the doggy folks!

Purina is offering a 30 day trial with free food (4 lb bag - hopefully you have a small dog) of their Purina One food in an offer to entice folks over to their product. I do have to put in a disclaimer, that this is also good for cat food. :-))

Now I fed Purina for years, ProPlan, and my dogs loved it. I collected weight circles and got coupons back from Purina. I have no complaints with them. I just happened to change to a raw diet and a different kind of back up kibble that was more natural (Blue Buffalo).

Would I feed Purina again? Most likely.

Do I like free? You betcha!

Another good thing about Purina, they have loads of info on their site that can benefit both the experienced and the novice dog owner. Check out their A-Z Library.

Release the Hounds

When: Saturday, June 10 2006 @ 10:00 AM EDT - 02:00PM

Where: Dog Park at Oakwood Park, Raleigh, NC

This is an educational event celebrating the new dog park at Oakwood Park.

Join in the fun and learn more about the dog park and area services for dogs. The Raleigh Police Department will be onsite for a demonstration as well as pet vendors, vets, pet sitters, groomers and more! Participate in contests with your dog, register for door prizes and treat your fur-baby to free party gifts. Refreshments will be available at the event compliments of the City of Raleigh.

AnimalAid

AnimalAid is UAN's relief program animals affected by personal disasters such as house fire, domestic violence situation, or the death of a family member due to accident. Grants are also available to families recovering from tragedies related to large-scale natural or manmade disasters.

Who Qualifies?

• Any companion animal who has been orphaned due to personal, natural or manmade disaster. (This includes any animal who has lost one caregiver and may still have other caring family members.)
• Any companion animal who was directly injured or affected by a personal, natural or manmade disaster.
• Any animals involved in the rescue and recovery efforts during a natural or manmade disaster (e.g, search and rescue dogs).
• The disaster giving rise to the need for aid must have occurred within one week of the request for aid.

Type of Aid Available:

• Assistance in placing the animal in foster or permanent adoptive homes through our nationwide network of trained Emergency Animal Rescue Service (EARS) volunteers.
• Transportation for the animal (either with our volunteers or by covering the costs of airline or other transport).
• Financial assistance of up to $500 per family to cover expenses for the animals including (but not limited to):
• veterinary care (to include spay/neuter in conjunction with other care)
• kennel boarding arrangements
• food, medications or other supplies

An online application is available on the United Animal Nations (UAN) website.

While I may not agree with everything they stand for, I can't ignore all the good they do for famlies and pets in need.

I like to keep the blogs pretty short, but make them each specific so a search engine will find them. I am ever so hopeful that someone besides me reads this stuff.

Ticks

Did you know there are over 850 species of ticks?

Gross, gross, prehistoric, disgusting things.

Ticks are notorious vectors for transmitting disease, some lethal. One disease that has really come to the forefront in the last decade is Lyme Disease. This is a disease that can affect both humans and animals.

Typical symptoms and signs for Lyme Disease are:

• Fatigue
• Chills and fever
• Headache
• Muscle and joint pain
• Swollen lymph nodes
• Characteristic skin rash, called erythema migrans

Erythema migrans (EM) is a red circular patch at the site of the tick bite that appears usually within 3 days to 1 month after the bite of an infected tick. But be careful, you will not always have this last symptom, nor does it mean you have Lyme Disease if you do have this rash. But express caution and see a doctor.

One of the best articles I have seen on How to Remove a Tick is on About.com. Simple and clearly written, it might be something you should print off and keep in your kitchen drawer.

Ticks come in all colors and an excellent photo display of ticks is located on the University of Nebraska website.

If you do find a tick on a person, and want to have it tested, here is a list of testing laboratories along with some suggestions on how to keep your yard tick free.

Emergency Animal Rescue Service (EARS)

While poking around the UAN site, I found some information that on Emergency Animal Rescue Service (EARS). This group has been in existance since 1988 and has been involved in almost 70 disasters worldwide.

"When disaster strikes, people can depend upon the Federal Emergency Management Agency, Red Cross or National Guard for aid and assistance, but who is there to help the animals?

The Emergency Animal Rescue Service (EARS) began filling this void over 15 years ago, responding to wild fires, floods, earthquakes, tornadoes and hurricanes to care for the animals. When EARS arrives, trained volunteers rescue, shelter, feed, groom, exercise and provide TLC for any displaced companion animals, wildlife and livestock during the duration of a disaster with no charge to the community.

With over 2,000 trained volunteers nationwide, EARS is ready to respond to disasters anywhere in the United States within 24 hours."

You, too, can help locally!

North Carolina is considered to be in the Mid-Atlantic Region of EARS along with Kentucky, Maryland, Ohio, Tennessee, Virginia, Washington DC and West Virginia. This region's Director is Cora Tyson . If you would like to get involved, drop her a line.

http://www.uan.org/ears/regional.html

Lifeline program for emergency vet care

The LifeLine program of the United Animal Nations gives grants for companion animals during life-threatening emergencies when rescuers or caregivers cannot afford the entire cost of treatment.

This Sacramento based group has aided more than 1,500 animals since 1997 with no-strings attached grants for emergency veterinary care.

NRGRR Dog Swim Event (May 13th)

Neuse River Golden Retriever Rescue is coordinating a dog swim event at Paws at Play in Wake Forest.

Date: Saturday, May 13th (bad weather make-up date is May 14th
Time: 12:00 noon to 2:00pm
Cost: $10 per dog, tax deductible
Where: Paws at Play,
3122 Heritage Trade Drive, Wake Forest

Hey - doesn't someone want to build something like Paws at Play in Durham? Raleigh is too far for me to bring my crew!

2006 Walk for the Animals

The 2006 Walk for the Animals will be held at Duke University’s Wallace Wade Stadium on May 20, 2006 from 9:00am to 1:00pm.

This will be a fun lineup including a free breakfast to all participants, demonstrations, contests, children’s activities, rescue group booths, a raffle and other great prizes that are planned for the day of the Walk.

You will have a great time along the scenic 5k or 1-mile fun walk route. You are welcome to walk with or without a pet.

You can register (either online or through the mail with the a printable Registration Form from the website). Everyone who registers will receive a free t-shirt.

Mail in your registration by Monday, May 8th or register online before Wednesday, May 17th to qualify for reduced Early-Bird Registration fees.

CGC Test - Raleigh's Bark Around the Park

Tarheel Golden Retriever Club is holding a CGC Test at Raleigh's Bark Around the Park on April 29th at Millbrook Exchange Park between 11 AM - 3 PM.

Cost is$10.00 per dog.

All breeds (and mixes) welcome!

Please contact Diane Lavigne via email for more information or to pre-register.

Animal Protection Society of Durham

The Animal Protection Society of Durham is a non-profit organization dedicated to protecting and providing shelter for all animals.

Rabies/Microchip Clinics

Rabies shots cost $8.

Shots will be given to all dogs/cats 4 months and older.

Cats must be brought in carriers, and dogs must be on a leash.

A 3-year shot can be given if you bring proof of a current one-year shot, close to expiring within 30 days. Otherwise a one-year shot is given.

They also offer micro-chipping for $25.

For more information contact the APS at (919) 560-0640
2117 E. Club Blvd.
Durham, NC 27704

You oughta' be in pictures!

Have you ever watched TV and thought, my dog can do that! I know I have... the talented team of Rosie, Lola and Simon can do anything... mommy says so.

Well, if you want to really pursue this thought - think about acting classes for your dog. Yes, you heard me... acting classes.

Bon-Clyde Learning Center - also called the grad school for canines by some - offers acting classes for your pets and even keeps a catalog of available talent.

Durham Kennel Club

I have to share this great resource with folks - the Durham Kennel Club!

Located off Guess Road on the very north side of Durham, this club has everything and does everything. Am I a bit prejudiced? Sure am - I am a member.

I suggest opening the site in Netscape - it is done in frames (I just HATE frames) and you can't get to any of the pages using Internet Explorer.

Camp Bow-Wow

I was driving down 70 on the West side of Durham and saw this sign for Camp Bow-Wow. I had to do a U-turn and look at it again. Never heard of it. So being the nosy dog person that I am, I had to follow the signs.

I arrived at this industrial building that had all the units in one building section - here was Camp Bow-Wow.

So I got out of the car, went in and asked for a tour.

According to their website, "Camp Bow Wow is an upscale boarding facility designed just for man's best friend! We give your pups the freedom to play all day with other campers or to just hang loose and relax with our certified counselors. Both day and overnight camp are available."

It was a really neat place and felt like an actual camp with a log-cabin/camp feel to it. I was told it was a "chain" and others would be opening soon. According to their website, there are two in Durham. One at 1710 Page Road And. and the other at 4310 Bennett Memorial Road. Two more are scheduled to open, one in Charlotte and one in Cary - can't believe Durham has something Cary doesn't.

I thought it was a bit pricey - but let me tell you, you would never even know there was a dog in the place it smelled so good. I figured if I ever had to go out of town this might be a good place to take my dogs. If you average out the fact that you have to have your dog groomed after boarding it because they smell so bad you don't want them in the car on the way home - it isn't a bad price. But... to my disappointment, my "kids" aren't allowed.

Camp requirements - You must be at least 4 months old, Spayed or Neutered (if over six months) and current on vaccination for Rabies, Distemper and Bordatella (canine cough). You must be in good health, flea/tick free, friendly to all dogs, and generally love to play.

So having show dogs, they are not neutered, not invited, etc. Can't even board them at the place. Even if don't want them to do the "play" part of the visit.

Bummer.... but if your pet is neutered, I would strongly suggest looking at this place for your pet. It is really, really clean.

Volunteer for your local Shelter

If you would like to volunteer some of your time at the Durham Animal Shelter, contact the APS Volunteer coordinator at 919-560-0640 or volunteer@apsofdurham.org and schedule an orientation session where you will complete an application, tour the shelter, and find out about volunteer opportunities.

Orientations are held twice a month.

You must be 18 years of age or older. Young people may volunteer with a parent if the parent is a trained volunteer. After orientation, speak with the Volunteer Coordinator to discuss your needs and goals, and to determine the most appropriate job for you. You will be then be scheduled for training sessions in your particular area of interest.

First Annual APS Gala benefit

On May 19th, at the Washington Duke Inn and Golf Club, join in on the First Annual APS Gala benefit to benefit the Animal Protection Society of Durham. There will be a seated 3-course dinner and a silent auction.

The theme for the evening of festivities is “There’s No Place Like Home,” to honor all of the beloved pets and owners that have found each other through adoption programs. This is a new fund raiser for the APS that will take place as a kick-off event for the 2006 Walk for the Animals.

For more information:

APS of Durham
2117 E. Club Blvd,
Durham, NC 27704
ATTN: Development Director

Interested in sponsoring the event?
Call 919-593-1883 or email development@apsofdurham.org

Low cost Vaccinations - Durham

Durham Animal Control offers a one year rabies shot by appointment only on Tuesdays & Thursdays for $8. Times are 10:00 am and 4:00 pm - SHARP!

If you are interested, please contact Animal Control for an appointment at (919) 560-0630.

Ouch - Licensing a dog in Durham

Boy did I have a shock when I moved to Durham and got my first "bill" for licensing my dogs!

$75 per intact animal!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Let me tell, you - people who admit they have an intact animal are not the ones who are causing the problems! Wow.

When I lived in Durham, 18 years ago, they had an ordinance that if you showed your dog and could give proof that it was a show dog - you had the same license fee as a neutered animal. Somehow that got washed under the carpet. After looking at the Animal Control website, I guess I don't even get a break if I am a senior and show dogs.

The annual licensing fee in Durham County for a spayed or neutered dog or cat is $10.00 annually. The licensing fee for all in tact animals is $75.00 annually. If you have your animal spayed or neutered you will need to send in proof of such with your licensing form and send a payment of $10.00 and the status of your animal will be changed.

Senior citizens over the age of 65 are exempt from paying the Durham County licensing fee ONLY if their animal is spayed or neutered.

PetSmart Animal Adoption Schedules

The APS (Animal Protection Society of Durham) is at the PETsMART in Patterson Place 3615 Witherspoon Blvd Ste 101Durham, NC 27707 every 2nd and 4th Sunday of the month from 2-4pm.

Click here to be sure they will be there. Click here to see what dogs will be present. Donations of food or money are welcome.

APS is at the PETsMART in North Pointe 1702 N Pointe Drive Durham, NC 27705Durham, NC 27707 the 1st Saturday of the month from 1-3pm.

Cats are available at the PETsMART in Brier Creek 8111 Brier Creek PkwyRaleigh, NC 27617. These cats are in the cat adoption area in PETsMART. Click here to see what cats are available.

Did you know there was a Herding Club in the Triangle?

The Triangle Herding Club will be having a meeting and a fun day Sunday, April 16th, 2006 at Glenn Haven Farm, Durham, NC.

The fun day will begin in the morning at 9:00 am. Members and guests will be able to have run for $10. (A run consists of a course of their choosing) If time allows, multiple runs will be available. Dogs must be experienced on sheep - this is not a herding instinct session.

We will be having a lunch at 12:30 pm. Burgers will be cooked by "chef Robby" - price is $5 and includes chips, salad and beverages. If you have special dietary needs, bring your own lunch. If anyone wants to bring cookies or sweets - please do!

The club meeting will be at 1:00 pm.

If you have any questions, please drop me a note.

If you would like to set up a time to have your dog take a herding instinct test, contact Fran Hoffman to set up an appointment at Glenn Haven Farm.

dana mackonis, secretary THC

Great Pet Column in the Sacrament Bee

One of the most interesting newspapers in the US is the Sacramento Bee. Not because of their up-to-the-minute coverage of world affairs, but because they have some of the most innovative reporters and columnists. It is a fun paper. If I want the latest Bush problem in Iraq, I turn on CNN.

One of my favorite columnists is award-winning Gina Spadafori and her lifestyle column on Pets. The also have an archive of pet news that has some excellent clips in it.

Definitely worth a bookmark or two in the doggie news department.

SPCA Founded 4/10/1866

The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) was founded on this day, April 10th 1866, in New York by by American reformer Henry Bergh.

Only 10 days after its formation, the ASPCA was able to pass the first Animal Cruelty statute in the US, which allowed the ASPCA to investigate animal cruelty complaints and make arrests.

Through its Enlighten for Animals program, the ASPCA is encouraging the public to help raise animal welfare awareness on April 10 by wearing orange, organize a community event, or volunteer at one of the city's many rescue groups and shelters. Landmarks from New York to Los Angeles will be aglow in "ASPCA Orange," kicking off a year-long anniversary celebration of North America's oldest animal welfare organization.

The most important concern of the ASPCA is animal overpopulation. In order to reduce the number of homeless or unwanted cats and dogs that are euthanized each year, the ASPCA advocates spaying, neutering, and animal adoption. In addition to its work with house pets, the organization places thousands of exotic animals in zoos and wildlife preserves each year.

Within the ASPCA are several agencies with specialized missions.

• ASPCA's Humane Education Department produces educational materials and programs.
• Humane Law Enforcement office encourages the enforcement of anti-cruelty laws and acts as a consultant for law enforcement agencies across the United States.
• Lasker Center for Humane Alternatives promotes alternatives to using animals in classroom dissection, cosmetic product testing, and medical research in the United States and internationally.
• ASPCA legal department focuses on legislation and advocacy to address issues of animal treatment, including protecting endangered species and animals used in exhibitions and entertainment, eliminating puppy mills, the rights of tenants and seniors to own pets, veal calf conditions, and the fur trade.

ASPCA headquarters is located in New York City; the organization maintains offices in Washington, D.C. and Los Angeles.

The ASPCA store has orange items for sale that help you support the orange glow, from simple wristbands to shirts and mugs.

The Well Equipped Back Packing Dog?

The Mountainsmith Dog Trippin' kit is an overnight kit for taking man's best friend into the backcountry, including a fleece-lined dog bed, water bowl, grub bowl and leash, which fits into a color-coordinated doggie backpack.

Check out Dog Trippin' under the pet products at the Mountainsmith web site - somehow, I think my dog would be better prepared for a trip to the mountains hiking than I would!!

Seriously, it does have everything your dog would need. I sure wish someone would get me one for my dogs - or maybe 3, so I could take all of the my dogs.

• Independently adjustable fleece lined chest harness
• Two zippered pockets with rain flaps
• Single haul handle on the top of the pack
• Compression straps
• D-ring attachment point for leashes
• Mesh pocket on the top for leash stash
• Reflective trim
• Internal valuables pocket

Too bad it only comes in red. I am one of those people that has a "color" for each dog. Well look at it this way, when I take one dog out - I always grab the right things for that particular dog. Right?

Hint, hint -- I have a blue, red, and purple color scheme going at home...

Canine Quotations

"Anybody who doesn't know what soap tastes like never washed a dog."
-- Franklin P. Jones

"Dogs remember faces; cats, places."
-- English saying

"A lawyer is just like an attack dog, only without a conscience."
-- Tom Clancy

"I sometimes look into the face of my dog Stan and see wistful sadness
and existential angst when all he is actually doing is slowly scanning
the ceiling for flies."
-- Merrill Markoe

"Houses are for private living, for friends, and for dogs."
-- Françoise Sagan

"Diamonds are a girl's best friend. Dogs are a man's best friend. Now
you know which sex is smarter"
-- Nancy Gray

"People can be a fine substitute for other dogs. But I think tat if
they had to choose, dogs by and large would choose the company of other
dogs."
-- Anthropologist Elizabeth Marshall Thomas

"Whoever beats dog loves not man."
-- Ansène Houssaye

"My dog Millie knows more about foreign affairs than these two bozos."
-- President George Bush, referring to Bill Clinton and Al Gore during
a campaign speech in Warren, Michigan

"When a man's dog turns against him it is time for his wife to pack her
trunk and go home to mamma."
-- Mark Twain

"The poor dog, in life the firmest friend,
The first to welcome, foremost to defend."
-- Lord Byron

"Happiness is a warm puppy."
-- Charles Schultz

"Heaven goes by favor. If it went by merit, you would stay out and your
dog would go in."
-- Mark Twain

I have always thought of a dog lover as a dog that was in love with
another dog.
-- James Thurber

"Dogs and humans are symbiotic species. We need each other."
-- Cynthia Heimel

"When most of us talk to our dogs, we tend to forget they're not
people."
-- Julia Glass

"The dog was created specially for children. He is the god of frolic."
-- Henry Ward Beecher

"You own a dog; you feed a cat."
-- Jim Fiebig

"It don't care whether I'm good enough. It don't care whether I snore
or not. It don't care which God I pray to. There are only three things
in this world with that kind of unconditional acceptance: Dogs, donuts,
and money."
-- Danny DeVito

"If dogs could talk, it would take a lot of fun out of owning one."
-- Andy Rooney

"When a dog runs at you, whistle for him."
-- Henry David Thoreau

"I explained it to St. Peter,
I'd rather stay here,
Outside the pearly gate.
I won't be a nuisance,
I won't even bark,
I'll be very patient and wait.
I'll be here, chewing on a celestial bone,
No matter how long you may be.
I'd miss you so much, if I went in alone,
It wouldn't be heaven for me."
-- Anonymous

"He who lies down with the dogs gets up with fleas."
-- Fred Gwynn

"My husband and I are either going to buy a dog or have a child. We
can't decide whether to ruin our carpets or ruin our lives."
-- Rita Rudner

"Stick around any place long enough and chances are you'll be taken for
granted. Hang around 20,000 years wagging your tail and being man's
best friend, and you'll be taken for granted big time."
-- Lynn Van Matre

"I can train any dog in five minutes. It's training the owner that
takes longer."
-- Barbara Woodhouse

"It is a terrible thing for an old lady to outlive her dogs."
-- Tennessee Williams

"Dog. A kind of additional or subsidiary Deity designed to catch the
overflow and surplus of the world's worship."
-- Ambrose Bierce

"A dog is the only thing on earth that loves you more than you love
yourself."
-- Josh Billings

"I have caught more ills from people sneezing over me and giving me
virus infections than from kissing dogs."
-- Barbara Woodhouse

"Say something idiotic and nobody but your dog politely wags his tail."
-- Virginia Graham

"You think dogs will not be in heaven? I tell you, they will be there
long before any of us."
-- Robert Louis Stevensen

"Generally, or at least very often, people with a deep interest in
animals are the best people around."
-- Roger Caras

"You can't keep a good man down--or an overaffectionate dog."
-- Anonymous

"There is no greater pleasure than having a dog. And that's a
scientific fact!"
-- Louis Sabin, commenting on a university study on the effect of
owning a dog.

"It doesn't matter where you are in your own personal development, nor
has it mattered where you have been culturally; dogs simply don't pass
judgment on you the way all of the rest of life and all your other
companions seem to."
-- Roger Caras

A Fellow Terv Blogger - Terv Dog Agility!

I found another local Terv Blog --- woo hoo!!!

Take a look and follow the adventures of Clover, the agility Terv and her owner....

Oh boy, we are taking over the Carolinas!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Meet the Dogs - Humane Society of Granville County

Just a reminder to everyone about Meet the Dogs on Saturday, April 22 in Butner, NC. The site location is only 25 minutes from Durham (hwy 85 north) and 35 minutes from Raleigh (Creedmoor Rd -- Hwy 50 north).

Meet the Dogs is a fundraiser for the Humane Society of Granville County. It's an educational event open to the public and their dogs to spend the day watching demos, gathering educational information and just spending the day with our best friends. Event hours are 10:00 am until 3:00 pm.

If anyone needs precise directions contact me at FLKnl@aol.com. If anyone knows of a rescue group that would like to participate, please have them contact me. No dogs will be allowed to be adopted at the event.

Rescue groups are welcome to make as many contacts as possible. If you know of a vendor with a pet related product who would like to participate have them contact me. We do not charge a vendor fee but request a donation be made to the Humane Society of Granville County, amount determined by the vendor. If you know of anyone or group wanting to do a demo or set up an educational, informational table have them contact me. In other words, if anyone wants to know anything about the event have them contact me -- :)

Linda
Humane Society of Granville County

Kitten & Puppy Benefit Art Show

Saturday, April 15
Kitten & Puppy Benefit Art Show

When: 5:30 pm to 8:00 pm
Where: SPCA Curtis Dail Pet Adoption Center

Finally, the age-old question, will be answered!

“Who are the better artists: puppies or kittens?”

Join the SPCA for the spring Kitten & Puppy Benefit Art Show featuring original, one-of-a-kind works of art actually painted by puppies and kittens.

First Aid for Pets - Triangle Red Cross

The Triangle Area Chapter of the Red Cross is pleased to offer the community First Aid for Dogs and Cats, or pet first aid.

Classes will be held in the Raleigh and Cary offices. Check the website link for dates in May and June. Cost is $35 for the 3.5 hour course.

At the end of the course, the participants should be able to:

• Explain how, when and where to call for emergency assistance with an injured pet.
• Understand how to find vital signs and behaviors that are "normal" for a pet.
• Identify signals of breathing emergencies, including chocking, and demonstrate how to provide care.
• Identify signals of cardiac arrest and demonstrate how to provide care.
• Identify life-threatening bleeding and demonstrate how bleeding can be controlled.
• Identify signals of various injuries and provide care for them.
• Identify signals of sudden illness, including poisoning, seizures, and hot and cold weather emergencies and how to care for them.
• Describe when and how to move an injured pet.
• Describe components of a good "pet friendly" first aid kit.

April Rabies Clinics

Monday, April 24, 5-7 pm
Rabies Clinic
Fuquay-Varina
250-1477 or bsmith@co.wake.nc.us


Wednesday, April 26, 5-6:30 pm
Rabies Clinic
Apex
250-1477 or bsmith@co.wake.nc.us


Thursday, April 27, 5-6:30 pm
Rabies Clinic
Knightdale
250-1477 or bsmith@co.wake.nc.us


Friday, April 28, 5-7 pm
Rabies Clinic
Zebulon
250-1477 or bsmith@co.wake.nc.us


Saturday, April 29, 820, 9 am-noon
Rabies Clinic
Raleigh
250-1477 or bsmith@co.wake.nc.us

Quotations

"It came to me that every time I lose a dog they take a piece of my
heart with them. And every new dog who comes into my life gifts me with
a piece of their heart. If I live long enough, all the components of my
heart will be dog, and I will become as generous and loving as they
are."
-- Cheryl Zuccaro

"Revenge is often like biting a dog because the dog bit you."
-- Austin O'Malley (1858-1932), Physician and humorist

"It's hard to believe, but some people claim their dogs are almost
human --- and they mean it as a compliment!"

"Isn't it wonderful how dogs can win friends and influence people
without ever reading a book?"

"Another reason why a dog is man's best friend is because he's not
always calling for explanations."

"How did dogs learn to bark their loudest during a television news
bulletin?"

"A hot shower on a cold, wet day, a phone call from a dear friend, or
the lick of a dog's tongue on your hand are reminders of life's simple
pleasures."
-- Brian Luke Seaward, Holistic health educator

"Never underestimate the warmth of a cold nose."

"Like objects in the passenger side mirror, Kerries are closer than
they appear."

"Whenever I feel poor, I remember that I'd rather have my dogs than
other people's money."
-- Susan Conant, "Black Ribbon"

"My dog and cat have taught me a great lesson of life...shed a lot."
-- Susan Carlson

A dog is the only thing on earth that loves you more than he loves
himself.
-- Josh Billings

Dogs need to sniff the ground; it's how they keep abreast of current
events. The ground is a giant dog newspaper, containing all kinds of
late-breaking dog news items,which, if they are especially urgent, are
often continued in the next yard.
-- Dave Barry

You can say any foolish thing to a dog, and the dog will give you a
look that says, 'Wow, you're right! I never would've thought of that!'
-- Dave Barry

Dogs are not our whole life, but they make our lives whole.
-- Roger Caras

If you think dogs can't count, try putting three dog biscuits in your
pocket and then giving Fido only two of them.
-- Phil Pastoret

My goal in life is to be as good a person as my dog already thinks I
am.
-- Unknown

"Many have forgotten this truth, but you must not forget it. You remain
responsible, forever, for what you have tamed."
-- Antoine de Saint-Exupery

"On the Internet, nobody knows you're a dog."
-- P. Steiner

"No heaven can heaven be if my dog is not there to welcome me."
-- unknown

" I never married because there was no need. I have three pets at home
which answer the same purpose as a husband. I have a dog that growls
every morning, a parrot that swears all afternoon, and a cat that comes
home late at night."
-- Marie Corelli

"My husband and I are either going to buy a dog or have a child. We
can't decide to ruin our carpet or ruin our lives. "
-- Rita Rudne

" I've been on so many blind dates, I should get a free dog."
--Wendy Liebman

" When you point out something to a dog, he looks at your finger."
-- J. Bryan

"Never repeat a command. Most dogs are not deaf; they just choose not
to listen."
-- Connie Jankowski, Dog trainer

"Dogs read the world through their noses and write their history in
urine."
-- J. R. Ackerley

"He may be a dog, but don't tell me he doesn't have a real grip on
life."
-- Kendall Hailey

"FOOVIEW (foo' view) n. The ability of a dog to inflict guilt from any
angle in the room while he watches his master eat."
-- Rich Hall

"There's facts about dogs, and there's opinions about them. The dogs
have the facts, and the humans have the opinions. If you want facts
about dogs, always get them straight from the dog. If you want
opinions, get them from humans."
-- J. Allen Boone

"Dogs aren't born knowing what or what not to do; they only learn like
children."
-- Barbara Woodhouse

"Humans have externalized their wisdom--stored it in museums,
libraries, the expertise of the learned. Dog wisdom is inside the blood
and bones."
-- Donald McCraig

"The fidelity of a dog is a precious gift demanding no less binding
moral responsibilities than the friendship of a human being. The bond
with a true dog is as lasting as the ties of this earth can ever be."
-- Konrad Lorenz

"Intelligent dogs rarely want to please people whom they do not
respect."
-- W. R. Koehler

"You may have a dog that won't sit up, roll over or even cook
breakfast, not because he's too stupid to learn how but because he's
too smart to bother."
-- Rick Horowitz, Chicago Tribune

"There are no one-night stands with a dog. Once you let your pet into
your bed, it's hard to get him out."
-- Diana Delmar

"A man and his dog goes so well with home and castle."
-- Ian Niall

"The small percentage of dogs that bite peole is monumental proof that
the dog is the most benign, forgiving crature on earth."
-- W. R. Koehler

"All knowledge, the totality of all questions and all answers, is
contained in the dog."
-- Franz Kafka

"It takes balls to neuter your pet!"

"Dogs are wise. They crawl away into a quiet corner and lick their
wounds and do not rejoin the world until they are whole once more."
-- Agatha Christie