Help Your Dog Overcome These 3 Common Allergies…

Story at-a-glance

• Three very common allergies in dogs include flea allergy dermatitis, food allergies and environmental allergies.
• Treating your dog’s symptoms is only a temporary fix.
• It’s extremely important to find the root cause of an allergic reaction.
• Tips to relieve the suffering of your allergic dog.

By Dr. Becker

If your dog seems to have an allergic condition, it’s important to get an appointment with your veterinarian as soon as you can.

Unlike the vast majority of traditional DVMs, I wholeheartedly disagree your pet should be started right away on a regimen of anti-allergy drugs and antibiotics and/or anti-viral medications.

There are safer ways to relieve your dog’s symptoms than pharmaceuticals while you and your vet work to discover the root cause of the allergic reaction.

Relieving symptoms without addressing the source of the problem is a short term fix to what can become a lifelong health problem. And certain drugs used to stop the allergic cycle have significant, potentially very serious side effects.

Flea Allergy Dermatitis (FAD)

Flea allergy dermatitis, which is actually sensitivity to flea saliva, is a very common condition in dogs. It’s not the bite of the flea that causes most of the itching in dogs with FAD, it’s the saliva.

The saliva causes irritation way out of proportion to the actual number of fleas on the pup.

Lots of dog parents assume if their pet isn’t infested with fleas, the itching can’t be caused by fleas. But if your dog has FAD, the saliva of just one or two fleas can make him miserably itchy and uncomfortable for many weeks (long past the death of those two fleas).

Suggestions for flea control:

• If you suspect or know fleas are a problem for your dog, I recommend you comb her at least once daily, every day during pest season with a flea comb. Do this on a white towel or other light colored cloth so you can see what’s coming off your dog as you comb. Flea ‘dirt’ (actually flea feces) looks like real dirt, but when suspended in a little rubbing alcohol or water will dissolve and release a red color (blood) allowing you to discern real dirt from flea dirt.
• Bathe your dog often. A soothing bath will kill any fleas on your dog, help heal skin irritation, and make her feel more comfortable and less itchy. Also, clean animals aren’t as attractive to fleas. Pick a non-grain (no oatmeal) herbal shampoo.
• Make liberal use of an all-natural pest repellent like Natural Flea and Tick Defense during flea season.

For some dogs with a serious case of flea allergy dermatitis, I prescribe an oral drug called Comfortis. It is a chemical, but it’s considered the least hazardous of all similar drugs. All drugs can have side effects, but Comfortis has reportedly fewer than topical insecticides.

Food Allergies

If your dog has an allergy to something he’s eating, it may show itself not only as digestive upset (gas, diarrhea, vomiting, etc.), but also as one or several of these symptoms:

• Itchy or oozing skin
• Red, irritated eyes
• Nasal discharge

• Coughing or sneezing; asthma
• Inflamed ears
• Swollen paws

If you suspect your dog is sensitive to something in her diet, there are a number of things you can do to learn the source of the allergy and solve the problem:

• If your dog is over a year old, consider using Dr. Jean Dodds’ Nutriscan saliva test to determine if your pet is allergic to beef, corn, wheat, soy, eggs and/or milk (the most common antigens for dogs). Dr. Dodds will be adding additional antigens to the test in the near future.
• If your pet has been eating the same food every day for months or years, there’s a good chance she’s developed an allergy to it. Contrary to what you’ve probably been led to believe, pets need diversity in their diets just like humans do. She might be sensitive to the single source of chemically-laced protein she’s been getting (chances are the meat is loaded with antibiotics and hormones causing immune system over-reaction). She’s also probably grown sensitive to certain allergenic ingredients in the food, typically grains and other carbohydrates.
  Work with your holistic vet to develop an allergy elimination diet to help pinpoint the source of the problem. I recommend a three-month diet, which is longer than what many vets suggest. I like to give adequate time for an animal’s body to clear the allergenic substances, detoxify, and clean out cellular debris.
  At the end of the elimination diet, new foods are added back in slowly, one at a time to gauge your dog’s response. It’s not uncommon for pets to be able to re-incorporate previous problem foods or clean proteins into the diet once the body is detoxified and the GI tract is healthy again.
• Your holistic vet should also suggest natural supplements to help with detoxification, allergy relief and immune system support during and after the elimination diet.
• To be optimally healthy — which includes avoiding food sensitivities and building resistance to all types of allergies — your dog should be fed a balanced, species-appropriate diet. The diet I recommend is preferably raw, either homemade (again, as long as it’s balanced) or commercial. Rotating the protein sources your dog eats is extremely important, as is strictly limiting or eliminating grains.

Environmental Allergies

In addition to flea saliva and certain foods/ingredients, your dog can also be allergic to an infinite variety of irritants in the environment. These can be outdoor allergens like ragweed, grasses and pollens, as well as indoor irritants like mold, dust mites, cleaning chemicals and even fabrics like wool or cotton.

As a general rule, if your dog is allergic to something inside your home, he’ll have year-round symptoms. If he’s reacting is to something outdoors, it could very well be a seasonal problem.

Also, your pet’s immune system is partly genetic, so he can actually inherit a tendency toward environmental allergies.

Finding the root cause of this type of allergy is extremely important, because what usually happens is the more your pet is exposed to an irritant, the more his sensitivity and reaction to it grows.

Some suggestions for finding and resolving environmental irritants:

• Clean up your pet’s indoor air environment. Don’t allow smoking around your pet. Switch to non-toxic cleaning products. Consider investing in an air purifier to control dust mites.
• Make sure your dog’s drinking water is high quality and doesn’t contain fluoride, heavy metals or other contaminants.
• Don’t allow your dog to be over-vaccinated or over medicated. Vaccines rev up your pet’s immune system – too many vaccinations can send it into overdrive. An over-reactive immune system sets the stage for allergic conditions.
  Antibiotics wipe out good bacteria right along with the bad guys. Since the majority of your pet’s immune system is in her GI tract, the right balance of gut bacteria is crucial for her health. There’s also the growing problem of antibiotic resistance in pets.
  Steroid therapy (prednisone, for example) is often prescribed for pets with allergies. What these drugs do is turn off the immune system so it stops creating the allergic response. It does work for symptom relief, but unfortunately, the side effects make this a very serious, potentially dangerous drug.
• Bathe your dog. If your pet has irritated skin, bathing will rinse the allergens away and make her feel better immediately. Don’t be shy about how often you bathe your pet, especially if she suffers from allergies that itch and irritate her skin.
  If you suspect something outdoors is irritating your dog, in between baths, do foot soaks. Chances are the allergen is coming inside on your pet’s feet. She can’t escape it, and she’s spreading it around indoors to every room she visits.

Technorati Tags: dog allergies,pet allergies,pet food allergies,flea allery dermatitis,pet environmenal allergies,Dr.Becker,JOMP,Just One More Pet

Pet Food Stamps

Struggling families can now apply for nonprofit’s Pet Food Stamps

ALBUQUERQUE KRQE.com – h/t to TLA: Although the government has offered food stamps to struggling Americans for decades, there haven’t been any provisions for their four-legged family members. Until now. Marc Okon has launched Pet Food Stamps, a New York-based nonprofit that will give qualifying pet owners throughout the U.S. (who must be receiving government assistance for themselves) funds to buy food for their animals from the website PetFoodDirect.

In the program’s first two weeks, Okon says he has already fielded more than 12,000 applications. "It’s aimed at preventing people from having to choose between feeding themselves or their animals or having to surrender them to a high-kill shelter," Okon said.

ALBUQUERQUE KRQE.com: A new program to offer pet food stamps is getting a big response from New Mexicans.

The nonprofit Pet Food Stamps is not a government program but works just like human food stamps. Families who qualify for state assistance could qualify for assistance in feeding their pets as well.

Local animal shelters hope the assistance will ease their overpopulation problems.

"We distribute roughly 3,000 pounds of pet food each week in Albuquerque," said Dawn Glass, marketing director at Animal Humane New Mexico.

Animal Humane’s emergency food bank feeds about 400 families every month in Albuquerque, but the help is only for dire situations. There is no long-term help.

Now a new national group Pet Food Stamps is changing that.

"It’s aimed at preventing people from having to choose feeding themselves or their animals or having to surrender them to a high-kill shelter," explained founder Marc Okon.

Okon launched the New York based nonprofit two weeks ago, and It’s already seeing a huge response from New Mexicans.
"We’ve had tons of people that have submitted applications," Okon said. "I think about 300 to 400 people to be exact." And that’s in New Mexico alone. In just two weeks the program has had more than 12,000 requests for assistance.

To qualify families must prove they’re receiving state assistance. If approved they’ll get a monthly allotment to spend at national retailer PetFoodDirect..

Local shelters say they’re thrilled about the idea of long-term relief.

"If we can have an ongoing source for these families while they’re trying to get on their feet, that’s huge" Glass said.

Glass hopes it will also keep more families with their families instead of state and city facilities.

"When people are going through difficult situations, where they’ve lost their jobs or their home is foreclosed, the last thing they need to do is lose their very best friend," Glass added.

Applications can be filled out on the Pet Food Stamps website .

Because the organization is a nonprofit, it is also in need of monetary donations while they search for federal funds and grants.

*This is a long overdue program. With the federal food stamp program you can buy candy, soda, and junk food but you can’t buy pet food or a pre-cooked chicken or off the dollar menu at any fast food place. If you are truly homeless and living on the street or in your car being able to feed your pet, sometimes your only companion, or eat a warm meal when you have nowhere to cook, would be worth a lot. It is perhaps time to re-consider some of the restrictions and impose a few new ones.

**If you can donate or perhaps work with this program, Pet Food Stamps, to help all families in need feed their pets, please do so.

Related:

Homeless With Pets – Choosing Pets Over Shelter

The “ex”-Middle & Upper Class Homeless

Foreclosure Crisis Leads to More Homeless Pets to the Rescue!

Where there is a will…

Is Your Pet a Voiceless Victim of the Tanking Economy?

Unconditional Love

Can the U.S. Become a No Kill Nation?

Chinese City’s “One Dog” Policy Has Residents Howling

Homeless Shelters that Allow Pets

How to Help Pets of Homeless People

A Patchwork of Food Assistance for Pets

Help Feed Hungry Pets

Humane Society list of pet financial aid-related organizations

N.J. Pets Welcome at Hurricane Evacuation Shelters

"The greatness of a nation and its moral progress can be judged by the way it treats its animals … and its weakest members.” …Ghandi

Technorati Tags: pet food stamps,food stamps for pets,dogs and cats,hungry pets,homeless with pets,Help Families Keep Their Pets,pets,dogs,cats,Love,Ghandi,JOMP,Just One More Pet,Pet Food Stamps,animals,for the love of a pet,we are all God’s creatures

Adopt a Pet This Christmas… Or Give Someone a New Friend for Christmas (or Hanukah)!

By Marion Algier – Originally Posted on December 15, 2011  -  Updated December 14, 2012 – Cross-Posted at AskMarion

The holidays are a popular time to get your children the pet they’ve always wanted. Who can resist an adorable puppy or kitten with a bow under the Christmas tree? If you are thinking about getting a pet this year, I encourage you to consider ‘adopting’ a pet for under the tree instead of buying one. There are a lot of benefits to adopting a pet over buying one from a pet store. For some of the reasons why, please see THIS ARTICLE. Truly, good pets can come from anywhere, but I also recommend not picking a pet that is coming from a non-reputable breeder or puppy mill. For more information about what puppy mills are, please check out THIS ARTICLE.

A great way to give a pet, especially to someone who does not live in your home, unless you know the person really well, is take the person you are getting the pet for to the shelter, rescue or store and let them chose the pet they want. Sometimes that is not possible… Sometimes if it is for your child your input is the final choice. Or sometimes you know grandma or grandpa would love a pet or needs one and taking them just won’t work out, so each situation is different. But if you can take them for a pre-visit or actually to pick one out is ideal. If not, choose a pet they would want, rather than one you want. And then adopt just one more for yourself, if you possibly can.

If you are a pet lover, please donate funds and supplies or volunteer your time to local rescues and shelters or consider fostering or taking a pet home for the holidays… and then helping find them a permanent forever home.

Adopt (or rescue) just one more pet and you are not only saving a life but enhancing yours… or that of a friend, family member or just a lonely soul. Those of us who have pets know that loving an animal and having them love you awakens a part of your soul that changes your life forever!

With today’s economy, plus the return of pets to the shelter of people who think animals are toys, there are more pets who need homes than ever before, so please consider giving some of these pets a home for the holidays and forever.

Critter for Christmas Gift… Not Always the Best Idea… Unless It is Done the Right Way!

h/t to Cindy Wolff

If you are really thinking of surprising someone with an animal for Christmas, make sure it’s made of fake fur and stuffed. If you really want to get someone a pet for Christmas, give them a gift certificate or and IOU and then take them to find a pet, if they want one, of their choosing… or take them pre-shopping or along with you to pick one out.

Nothing says “I’m clueless” like giving an animal at Christmas to someone who was neither wanting nor expecting that gift.

After the oohing and ahhing at the precious animal, the reality of what you’ve done sets in.

You have just given someone a 10- to 15-year commitment (the oldest dog alive is 27) that can cost anywhere from a couple of hundred to thousands of dollars for care.

If you give a puppy, then you have further obligated them to be home every two or three hours to take the pup outside to use the bathroom.

They will spend the next year teaching their pup to be a good dog and not tear things up, don’t jump up, stop barking, house training and all the work that goes with helping the pet become a decent part of the family.

Cats are easier because you don’t have to go stand outside with them in 30-degree temperature on a freezing rainy day and beg them to use the bathroom.

But you are still obligating your beloved to the care of a pet. Also, why would you assume to know what personality of a pet suits what person? That’s a personal thing.

Pets are a very personal choice and the right fit is best for both the pet and their new parent. I’ve always adopted my pets based on their personality fit into my home. These are not plug-and-play toys. Some people prefer affectionate cats, while others don’t mind the aloof ones. Some like long-hair, some like short-hair.

Some people might actually feel like you’re given them a gift of obligation that never stops costing or needing, or insist you take it back.

So, if you want to adopt an animal for your family and you want your children to have a pet, that is one thing, but even then, you might consider buying a stuffed animal with a note attached that you will go as a family and adopt a pet after Christmas or even this spring.

Why spring?

People have more time off. They don’t mind being outside so much in the better weather. And your family can decide what pet fits.

Spend this time researching various breeds, figuring out which ones, like Dalmatians, are athletic and require a lot of exercise and attention and which ones, like Rottweilers, are couch potatoes.

You’ll learn that Jack Russell Terriers aren’t as sedate as the character Eddie on the television show “Frasier” and all puppies aren’t as bad as Marley.

But the biggest lesson you will learn is that pet ownership is not something you decide like choosing a lamp. It’s a long-term commitment of money, time and love. The reward is immeasurable, but it’s not usually something you decide for someone else. They often need to find it for themselves.

The good news is that there are so many places to adopt a pet these days! Fees vary and many are often waived this time of year. Below are just a fewrecources:

Best Friends Animal Society

Petfinder and Adoptapet are two terrific resources to search all adoptables at local rescue groups – the cool part is that on Adoptapet you can save your search and plug in your email and they will email you when pets that match your search come up.

Adopt and Shop – An amazing new “pet store” with shelter animals in Lakewood. They get all pets from the SEEACA animal shelter in Downey. Here’s the best part: adoption counselors are available to help match you with the perfect pet for your family. Your new pet will come complete with leash/collar or food, litter etc. All vaccinated, microchipped and spayed or neutered and can go home that day! I am not sure about the prices so you will need to call them but will average around $100 compared to the thousands for a pet store puppy with no vaccines, microchip, supplies, counselors, after adoptions support and spay/neuter. Some pets available at Adopt and Shop:

• Petco and PetSmart will have adoptions at all of their stores this season.
• German Shepherd Rescue of Orange County
• FoundAnimals Whisker Wonderland — A Holiday Adopt-a-Thon all over Los Angeles

 

 

"A Canine Christmas Extravaganza Adoption Event"

Sunday, December 16th
Paws-Abilities Total Dog Center, Fife
Noon-3 pm

Increase the merry in your holidays by adopting your new best friend!

Ho ho ho! It’s time again for our extra large and extra jolly Adoption Event!

Come join us and find your own Dasher, Dancer, Prancer, or Vixen!
Fourteen rescue groups will be attending with their adoptable dogs and puppies in all shapes, sizes, breeds, and personalities. All dogs are spayed/neutered, up to date on vaccinations, temperament tested and looking to pledge their love! Trainers will be on site to help you select a dog that will be perfect for your family and lifestyle.

Adoption fees will range between $100-$350.

Come early and enjoy the food and crafts at the vendor booths that will be set up outside of Paws-Abilities Total Dog Center at 10 am. You will be able to buy all the supplies your new pooch will need to be set up in style!

Doors for the Adoption Event will open at Noon.

And, guess who will be there to snuggle and take pictures with you and your new pooch–that’s right, SANTA!

Capture the memory of this holiday season and have a holiday photo taken with Santa and you and your furry best friend(s)!

Photos will be taken by PawPrints Pet Photography and they will make beautiful Christmas gifts!

10% of the proceeds from the purchased photos will be donated to Pawsitive Alliance!

Opt to Adopt and give the gift of a furever home to a loving dog for Christmas this year!

Shelter and Rescue Groups bringing their dogs:

• American Cocker Spaniel Rescue
• Barks R Us
• Collar of Hope
• Greyhound Pets of America, Greater Northwest
• Humane Society of Central Washington
• Left Behind K9
• Motley Zoo Animal Rescue
• NOAH
• Open Paws Resort
• Regional Animal Services of King County
• Res Q Angels
• Sunny Sky’s Animal Rescue
• Valhalla Canine Rescue
• Yakima Valley Pet Rescue

For more information, email Denise at info@pawsitivealliance.org or call us at 206-486-4PET!
Click here to download a flier and help us spread the word!Paws-Abilities Total Dog Center

7338 26th Street E
Building F
Fife, WA 98424
For more information and directions, visit the Paws-Abilities website.

Pawsitive Alliance’s mission is to end the killing of adoptable dogs and cats in Washington by increasing adoptions, supporting spay and neuter programs, and improving pet retention.

A Dog Named Christmas

Video: A Dog Named Christmas DVD (Hallmark Hall of Fame)

Pets and Toxic Plants, including Poinsettias and Herbs We Cook With for the Holidays

If you know of any local pet adoption events going on, please let me know and I will add them on here!

Also, a great pet owner gift:  StemPet and StemEquine – Stem Cell Enhancers for Pets 

It’s really for the pet, but like kids, they’d rather have the toy… or both!

Related Fun Christmas Posts:

Jingle Goats….

Unleashed…

Training Your Dog to Decorate Your Tree

Christmas for Pet People

All I want for Christmas Is You~

Critter for Christmas Gift… Not Always Best Idea! – Unless you do it the right way.

Pet Skunks Under the Tree

Animal Nativity

‘Until One Has Loved an Animal, Part of Their Soul Remains Unawakened’ – Join the NO KILL MOVEMENT

Technorati Tags: adopt a dog,Adopt Just One More Pet,donate to help pets,donate to local shelters,Just One More Pet,Pet Adoption,Christmas,Hanukkah,canine doggie extravaganza,JOMP

Adopt a Pet This Christmas… Or Give Someone a New Friend for Christmas (or Hanukah)!

15 December 2011

The holidays are a popular time to get your children the pet they’ve always wanted. Who can resist a adorable puppy or kitten with a bow under the Christmas tree? If you are thinking about getting a pet this year, I encourage you to adopt a pet for under the tree instead of buying one. There are a lot of benefits of adopting a pet over buying one from a pet store. For some reasons why, please look at THIS ARTICLE. Pets can come from anywhere, but I also recommend not picking a pet that is coming from a non-reputable breeder or puppy mill. For more information about what puppy mills are, please check out THIS ARTICLE.

A great way to give a pet , unless you know the person really well, is take the person you are getting the pet for to the shelter, rescue or store and let them chose the pet they want.  Sometimes that is not possible… Sometimes if it for your child your input is the final choice Or sometimes you know grandma or grandpa would love a pet or needs one and taking them just won’t work out, so each situation is different.  But if you can take them for a pre-visit and to actually to the picking out it is ideal. If now choose a pet they would want, rather than one you want.  And then adopt just one more for yourself, if you possibly can.

And if you are a pet lover, please donate funds and supplies or volunteer your time to local rescues and shelters or consider fostering or taking a pet home for the holidays… and then helping find them a permanent forever home.

Adopt (or rescue) just one more pet and you are not only saving a life but enhancing yours… or that of a friend, family member or just a lonely soul.  Those of us who have pets know that loving an animal and having them love you awakens a part of your soul that changes your life forever! 

With today’s economy and plus the return of pets to the shelter of people who think animals are toys there are more pets who need homes than ever before.

The good news is that there are so many places to adopt a pet these days! There are also many pets on Facebook and other websites where you can “shop” for the perfect pet for you and your family. And, there’s a ton of amazing resources such as local rescues and shelters, adoption events in the area, and stores that are adopting out rescued pets if people don’t want to go to the shelter.

One of these adoption events is happening this Saturday, December 17th at the OC Animal Care at 61 The City Dr. in Orange from 10am-2pm. This “Paliday Adoption Event” is sponsored by The Desperate Paws of Orange County Dog Club. You can get a $50 discount on all adoptions at this event! For more info visit their WEBSITE or call (714) 935-6848.

Other good resources for information about pet adoption:

• Best Friends Animal Society – Right now Best Friends is offering free air travel from the sanctuary to people who want to adopt their pets. They will be flown to your local airport by the 22^nd plus all adoption fees are also waived if you want to adopt a “senior pet.” For more information about this program, go HERE.
• Petfinder and Adoptapet are two terrific resources to search all adoptables at local rescue groups – the cool part is that on Adoptapet you can save your search and plug in your email and they will email you when pets that match your search come up

Adopt and Shop – An amazing new “pet store” with shelter animals in Lakewood. They get all pets from the SEEACA animal shelter in Downey. Here’s the best part: adoption counselors are available to help match you with the perfect pet for your family. Your new pet will come complete with leash/collar or food, litter etc. All vaccinated, microchipped and spayed or neutered and can go home that day! I am not sure about the prices so you will need to call them but will average around $100 compared to the thousands for a pet store puppy with no vaccines, microchip, supplies, counselors, after adoptions support and spay/neuter. Some pets available at Adopt and Shop:

• Petco — Petco will have adoptions at all of their stores this weekend. To find your local Petco, go HERE.
• FoundAnimals Whisker Wonderland — A Holiday Adopt-a-Thon all over Los Angeles

Here are some sample pets you can find at the Whisker Wonderland Events:

• Best Friends Animal Society Holiday Pop Up Adoption events in Los Angeles — More info HERE.
• German Shepherd Rescue of Orange County
• Cuddly Canines in La Habra – specializing in adopting out rescued moms and puppies from their local shelters
• Lovebugs Rescue – In Irvine

"A Canine Christmas Extravaganza Adoption Event"

Dawn Gerken, Seattle Pet Rescue Examiner

Are you thinking about adding a dog or puppy to your family? Do you want to learn how to be a better doggie parent? On Sunday, December 11th Pawsitive Alliance will be hosting two events to help you do just that!

From 9:30am to 11:00am there will be a pre-adoption event workshop hosted by Pawsitive Alliance, where there will be training with professional trainer Dana Babb. The event will take place at Paws-Abilities Total Dog Center, located at 7338 26th St E, Fife WA 98424. You can find directions at http://everydoghas.com/about/location.htm.

At this workshop you will learn options for acquiring and selecting the right dog for your family, as well as tips for successfully integrating the dog into your household. Workshop attendees earn early entry into the “A Canine Christmas Extravaganza!” adoption event taking place just after the workshop.

Space is limited, so please RSVP to Julie@pawsitivealliance.org or 206-465-4116. Cost is $20.00 per family (a $120 value!). You can also find out more information at http://www.pawsitivealliance.org.

Are you thinking about adding a dog or puppy to your family? Do you want to learn how to be a better doggie parent? On Sunday, December 11th Pawsitive Alliance will be hosting two events to help you do just that!

From 9:30am to 11:00am there will be a pre-adoption event workshop hosted by Pawsitive Alliance, where there will be training with professional trainer Dana Babb. The event will take place at Paws-Abilities Total Dog Center, located at 7338 26th St E, Fife WA 98424. You can find directions at http://everydoghas.com/about/location.htm.

At this workshop you will learn options for acquiring and selecting the right dog for your family, as well as tips for successfully integrating the dog into your household. Workshop attendees earn early entry into the “A Canine Christmas Extravaganza!” adoption event taking place just after the workshop.

Space is limited, so please RSVP to Julie@pawsitivealliance.org or 206-465-4116. Cost is $20.00 per family (a $120 value!). You can also find out more information at http://www.pawsitivealliance.org.

A Canine Christmas Extravaganza!

“Open your heart this holiday season to more love and tail wags by adopting a new best friend.”

As mentioned above, just after the workshop on Sunday December 11th, from noon to 3pm there will be a fantastic adoption event. This will also take place at the Paws-Abilities Total Dog Center.

This jolly adoption event will have many loving and adoptable dogs and puppies from 20 shelter and rescue groups from all around Washington. All animals are spayed or neutered, up-to-date on vaccinations, and temperament tested. Experts will be on-hand to help you make a merry match. Adoption fees vary. Credit cards will be accepted at the facility; however, cash payments are always best.

You will want to arrive early, because starting at 9am pet supply vendors will be available for you to purchase everything your new best friend needs to settle happily and safely at home. Enjoy delicious food and beverages from the food vendors who will also be attending while you browse! Licensing agencies from all around Puget Sound will be on-site as well. Plus, each adopter goes home with a goodie bag filled with treats and coupons from great local sponsors!.

You can help these animals have a merrier holiday season by bringing a donation of dog or cat food, toys or treats to Paws-Abilities. All donations will be given to the shelters and rescues attending this event.

To date, participating organizations bringing animals to this event include:

Barks R Us
Grant County Animal Outreach
Wenatchee Valley Humane Society
Regional Animal Services of King County
NOAH
Homeward Pet Adoption Center
A Paw Up Rescue
American Cocker Spaniel Rescue
Collar of Hope
Saving Paws of Washington
Up 2 U Dog Rescue
Kitsap Humane Society
Sunny Sky’s Rescue
Pasado’s Safe Haven
Wolf Pack Animal Rescue
Valhalla Canine Rescue
Greyhound Pets of America, Greater Northwest
Lady’s Hope Rescue
DRAW

Pawsitive Alliance’s mission is to end the killing of adoptable dogs and cats in Washington by increasing adoptions, supporting spay and neuter programs, and improving pet retention.

A Dog Named Christmas

Video: A Dog Named Christmas DVD (Hallmark Hall of Fame)

Pets and Toxic Plants, including Poinsettias and Herbs We Cook With for the Holidays

If you know of any local pet adoption events going on, please let me know and I will add them on here!

Related Fun Christmas Posts:

Unleashed…

Training Your Dog to Decorate Your Tree

Christmas for Pet People

All I want for Christmas Is You~

Critter for Christmas Gift… Not Always Best Idea! – Unless you do it the right way.

Pet Skunks Under the Tree

Animal Nativity

‘Until One Has Loved an Animal, Part of Their Soul Remains Unawakened’  – Join the NO KILL MOVEMENT

Is Your Pet a Voiceless Victim of the Tanking Economy?

More than 1 million dogs and cats are at risk for becoming homeless, the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) believes.

In response to a request from DVM Newsmagazine, ASPCA officials estimate that 500,000 to 1 million cats and dogs in the country could be given up by their owners for economic reasons.

Why the huge disparity? Many shelters are not equipped to accurately report numbers and reasons for relinquishments, says Alison M. Zaccone, manager of media and communications at ASPCA.

“Economic issues aside, it is estimated that 5 million companion animals enter shelters each year,” Zawistowski adds.

“If you factor in the animals merely in danger of becoming homeless, it could result in an extra 10 percent to 20 percent increase in relinquishments to shelters. This has the potential to grow into a serious animal-welfare issue, and some regions of the United States, like Nevada — where the foreclosure rates are three times the national average  could be hit much harder than others.”

Source:  Dr. Mercola – Healthy Pets

——-

Up to 1 million pets at risk during economic crisis

New York- More than 1 million dogs and cats are at risk for becoming homeless, the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) believes.

In response to a request from DVM Newsmagazine, ASPCA officials estimate that 500,000 to 1 million cats and dogs in the country could be given up by their owners for economic reasons.

Why the huge disparity? Many shelters are not equipped to accurately report numbers and reasons for relinquishments, says Alison M. Zaccone, manager of media and communications at ASPCA.

“According to national financial estimates, approximately one in 171 homes in the United States is in danger of foreclosure due to the subprime mortgage crisis,” adds Dr. Stephen Zawistowski, executive vice president of ASPCA programs and its science advisor, in a prepared statement. “Considering that approximately 63 percent of U.S. households have at least one or more pets, hundreds of thousands of animals are in danger of being abandoned or relinquished to animal shelters.

“Economic issues aside, it is estimated that 5 million companion animals enter shelters each year,” Zawistowski adds. “If you factor in the animals merely in danger of becoming homeless, it could result in an extra 10 percent to 20 percent increase in relinquishments to shelters. This has the potential to grow into a serious animal-welfare issue, and some regions of the United States, like Nevada – where the foreclosure rates are three times the national average – could be hit much harder than others.”

Originally Posted: Feb 5, 2009
By: Daniel R. Verdon – DVM NEWSMAGAZINE

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In October 2008, an article appeared in The Denver Post about a woman who tried to poison her dog with an overdose of anti-anxiety pills. When it didn’t die, she shot it four times with a .22 caliber handgun.

Animal cruelty?

Yes, but at its roots, sheer desperation…

Paula Harding, age 33, told police she couldn’t afford a veterinarian due to financial problems, nor could she afford euthanasia for her sick 15-year-old terrier/poodle mix. She called her dog a “good friend” and felt she had no other option. Now, on top of her financial difficulties, she faces animal cruelty charges.

The Grim Reality

Sad cases like this are turning up all over the country. On May 28 a big semi pulled into my veterinary practice after-hours and begged the last remaining staff person to please take their ill cat. They were passing through the area and felt we may be compassionate enough to euthanize their sick cat for free. Otherwise, they told my employee, they would be forced to dump her paralyzed body along a busy street, hoping someone would find her and be able to afford a humane euthanasia.

Pets are the voiceless victims of the tanking economy and are frequently abandoned at shelters or even left behind in foreclosed homes.

Some of these abandoned and starving animals aren’t being discovered until real estate agents come to show the property, many days or weeks later. There are tales of dogs being found in state parks, cats left on doorsteps in cat carriers, and animals simply abandoned on the street.

People are having to choose between feeding their children and feeding their pets, and pets are losing. As the cost of food and healthcare rises, so does pet food and veterinary care.

So many people are feeling forced to abandon their animals that a new term is being used: “foreclosure pets.” The number of foreclosure pets is increasing while the donations and offers for housing are decreasing.

According to the New Haven Register, shelter and rescue operations are up by 15 or 20 percent, in some cases more. The number of people adopting is dropping in some areas, but increasing in others…a small bright spot in the story.

Donna Miles of Bella Vista Animal Shelter reported she receives two or three calls per day from pet owners who are no longer capable of caring for them. These calls used to come from folks who had been through divorce and could not keep their pets, but lately, the foreclosure crisis is the cause, although owners are often reluctant and embarrassed to talk about it.

Another shelter owner said the animals she used to receive were scruffy and underfed, but of late, she is receiving animals that are obviously well loved and well cared for. These pets are arriving shelters, complete with cat trees, litter boxes, favorite toys and photo albums.

This is such a heart-breaking testament to the anguish people must face in having to part with their devoted companions.

Big Hearts Are Stepping Up

Many shelters are seeing an increase in donations and adoptions. Instead of taking a vacation, some animal lovers are rescuing an abandoned pet instead.

Pet food banks are emerging in many neighborhoods.

Organizations are popping up everywhere to help with the pet crisis. An organization called No Paws Left Behind helps people find new lodging for their animals, trying to work with pet owners before the foreclosure takes place.

One of their main goals is to educate people about the types of shelters they’re selecting. Many have a No Kill policy in place. However, shelters without a No Kill policy are responsible for euthanizing more than 12 million dogs and cats each year.

The Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) created a grant program in March 2008 to help with the foreclosure pets. Grants ranged from $500 to 2,000 per organization.

However, due to financial constraints, they had to temporarily close the Foreclosure Pets Fund as of May 4, 2009. Unfortunately, there are more dogs than dollars.

What You Can Do

The Humane Society website has some excellent suggestions for pet owners who are facing economic hardship. Here are some of their suggestions, and a few additional thoughts:

1. Plan ahead. There are folks who can help you find animal friendly housing, but you must not wait until you are homeless to get your ducks in a row (or your cats and dogs). Check ads and contact real estate agents at least six weeks before you have to move. Contact your local Humane Society office, which sometimes keeps a list of pet-friendly apartments. Gather proof that you’re responsible. Once you have permission from a landlord, get it in writing.
2. Be proactive. It is unlikely you’ll be able to rent a small apartment with 6 animals in tow. Try to find homes for your animals yourself. What about friends and family? What about a local shelter? People at church?
3. Don’t be shy—ask for help. Reach out to fellow dog and cat owners. Put the word out. Ask your neighbors to help. Even contact a news organization!
4. Let your vet know. He or she might be able to help by offering a discount, and by prescribing only the most vital vaccination (the only vaccine required by law is rabies vaccine) to keep your pet healthy. And vets are usually knowledgeable about local community resources.
5. Keep the faith. There are a lot of good people out there who are looking for ways to help. Once you are on your feet again, you may be able to retrieve your pet.
6. DON’T leave your pet behind, no matter what. No matter how hard it is to cope or how overwhelmed you are, please don’t leave your pets in your house when you move out. It can be weeks before the lender or a realtor comes to the house and finds Fluffy slowly starving inside.

If you are considering adding a pet to your life, please consider rescuing a homeless pet from a shelter, instead of buying a puppymill pet from a store. Or, if you want a slightly different experience, you might be interested in becoming a foster care volunteer for a homeless dog or cat.

The bottom line is, our pets are in need of bailout, far more than our banks. You can make a difference, and the first step is getting educated on the issues.

Our pets, who bring us many years of happiness and devotion and good health, are completely dependent on us. Don’t let them suffer in silence any longer.

Good Animal Welfare Organizations

The following is a list of animal welfare organizations that are actively involved in lessening the impact of this economic crisis on our furry friends.

• No Kill Network
• Humane Society list of pet financial aid-related organizations
• American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA)No Paws Left Behind
• Foreclosure Pets
• Best Friends Animal Society, No More Homeless Pets Page
• Green Paw
• People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA)
• Animal Rights and Animal Protection Organizations (listed by state)
• The Animal Rescue Site
• Progressive Animal Welfare Society (PAWS)

Related Posts:

• California: Protest Governor’s Plan to Cut Shelter Funding!
• Stop California SB 250 – Save Our Dogs and Our Rights
• Doomed Dogs Get On The Rescue Wagon to Other Shelters
• Where there is a will…
• Help Pass California AB 233 – Pet Adoption Tax Credit
• Economic Forecast: One Million Pets May Lose Homes in the U.S.
• Just How Bad Is The Economy??
• GETTING TO ZERO
• 285 Dogs Are Out and Never Looking Back
• November Is Adopt-A-Senior-Pet Month
• Shelters Full of Chihuahuas
• Adopting A Senior Pet Has Many Advantage For Families and Seniors
• Doomed Dogs Get On the Rescue Wagon to Other Shelters
• Chinese City’s “One Dog” Policy Has Residents Howling
• PET TALK: Don’t dump your pets when times are tough
• VIDEO AND MORE: See pilots fly dogs to better lives

Posted:  Just One More Pet

Where there is a will…

One of the greatest tragedies of the failed housing market is the cost to pets and animals.  And although highlighted now and again after some tragic event where a pet has been left behind to starve without food or water in an abandoned house or chained to a tree when their family moved, it has been under reported. 

Losing your home, often after having also lost your job in today’s uncertain financial environment, can be both scary and overwhelming.  People become panicked and often make rash and unsound decisions under the pressure or go into a state of denial.  But leaving your pet or any animal behind without making arrangements for them to be taken care of could end up haunting both you and your family forever.  A pet is a family member and abandoning them, besides being illegal, could leave permanent scars, especially on children. 

Often lack of planning is the greatest culprit.  Friends or family members will usually take your pets, either permanently or until you or an adoptive family can take them, if you really cannot or do not know where you are going or cannot take them along.  Running an ad in the local paper, online, or in the neighborhood ad sheet is usually free for pet ads, but people tend to want to believe that things will get better so often wait until the last minute when they are out of time and therefore often also out of options.  I have seen people walk their pets or sit outside a market with them wearing a sign:  ‘I need a home’ or ‘Will you take me home?’ with relative success.  Networking with friends, neighbors and co-workers, or putting up signs at markets, at your veterinarian’s office, church, and on community boards and mailboxes are also great sources, as well as contacting local rescues and no kill shelters.  Many pet sites also have message boards where you might find an adoptive parent or  a foster family for your pet, giving you more time to find another solution. 

I have also seen people negotiate with new landlords or network to find a place that will allow their pets to move with them, even though the listings originally said no.  Getting a written reference from either a former landlord or neighbors is helpful and working through a realtor or leasing agent also usually ups your chances.  Remember if you are going to rent, the owner pays their fee, not you. 

Be creative!  I recently came across someone who traded their car for an old camper by running an ad in the newspaper.  It gave the family and the pets a crowded but temporary place to live and stay together.  We are surrounded by community, sometimes our greatest failing is the fear or hesitance to ask for help. 

Where there is a will… there is a way, and it starts with planning.

By:  Marion Algier/Ask Marion 

 

Related Articles:

• Economic Forecast: One Million Pets May Lose Homes in the U.S.
• Father Arrested for Allegedly Killing Family Dog in Front of Children
• Abused and abandoned pets need our help
• Doomed Dogs Get On The Rescue Wagon to Other Shelters

Quickie Homemade Dog Treats

1-3/4 CUPS WHOLE-WHEAT FLOUR
2, 4.5-OUNCH JARS MEAT FLAVORED BABY FOOD
1/2 CUP BEEF/CHICKEN/VEG. BROTH OR SUFFICIENT FOR PROCESSING

PREHEAT OVEN TO 350 DEGREES. LIGHTLY OIL BOTTOM OF COOKIE SHEET.

IN LARGE BOWL, USING FORK, COMBINE FLOUR & BABY FOOD, MIXING WELL BLENDED & FORM INTO VERY SOFT DOUGH.

IF MIXTURE IS A LITTLE DRY, ADD BEEF BROTH 1/4 CUP AT A TIME UNTIL DOUGH PULLS AWAY FROM BOWL.

PINCH OFF SMALL PIECES OF DOUGH AND BETWEEN FLOURED HANDS, ROOL INTO SMALL BALLS.

PLACE BALLS ON OILED BAKING PAN 1/2 INCH APART & FLATTTEN WITH BACK OF FORK TO 1/4-INCH THICK.

BAKE @ 350 DEGREES IN CENTER OF OVEN FOR 18 TO 20 MINUTES (OR UNTIL TOPS ARE GOLDEN BROWN).

REMOVE COOKIE SHEET FROM OVEN & LET REST A FEW MINUTES. REMOVE COOKIES FROM PAN. ALLOW TO COOL TO ROOM TEMPERATURE. STORE IN NON-AIRTIGHT CONTAINER

Just One More Pet Rescue Adoption Saturday (Pattison)

Just One More Pet Rescue held an adoption day at the Pattison Car show on Saturday, October 11th, in Pattison, TX, (3 miles north of Brookshire). See http://www.pattisoncarshow.com for information. All of the animals that were available for adoption had been picked up from the roads of Waller County, because there is no animal control department there. All of the dogs were housetrained, crate comfortable and well mannered, their ad stated.

Just One More Pet Rescue is a kennel free home where all dogs are treated equally regardless if they reside with them for a short time, or longer.  They had rescued several nice dogs and puppies and also several kittens that were available for adoption.

We are honored to share a name with them and would encourage others to look at this model and consider doing the same. There number is 832-279-4739 and we are sure they would appreciate donations.  Last week, before the event, they found new homes for 4 puppies and one kitten!

We would also encourage event organizers to invite local pet rescue groups to be part of your next event to encourage the adoption of abandoned pets and animals.

Keep up the good work… and open your heart to ‘Just One More Pet’!  Every pet deserves a good home… and no pet should be euthenized because of a lack of homes.

By: Ask Marion at Just One More Pet

Saved! ASPCA Vets Rescue Puppy Who Ate Loaf of Raisin Bread

Early last week, New York City resident Jeremy Sigall discovered his mischievous six-month-old puppy, Winnie, had snatched a loaf of raisin bread from the kitchen counter and completely devoured it, crumbs and all. The Welsh springer spaniel was at grave risk for kidney failure—a common reaction in dogs who’ve eaten grapes or raisins. Horrified and worried, Jeremy immediately called the Urbana, IL-based ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center’s (APCC) 24-hour hotline.

The veterinary toxicologists who handled the call—Dr. Michael Knight and Dr. Susanna Hawkins—determined the loaf of bread may have contained three tablespoons of raisins, a sufficient amount to be toxic to most dogs. As luck would have it, Jeremy and his wife live within blocks of the ASPCA’s Bergh Memorial Animal Hospital in Manhattan. After consulting with the APCC, they rushed Winnie to the hospital for emergency care.

“Winnie’s parents had already called the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center—which was so smart—so we already had a case number when we called to talk again,” says Dr. Emmy Pointer, the ASPCA veterinarian who treated the pup. “We immediately induced vomiting and got a good portion of the raisin bread up, then started IV fluids right away to prevent kidney failure.” After three days of monitoring, Winnie’s test results showed no subsequent signs of renal problems.

Nearly 20 years ago, APCC toxicologists started noticing a disturbing trend in their data involving dogs who’d eaten grapes and raisins—nearly all developed acute kidney failure. The chemical that causes this reaction hasn’t been identified, but it can be treated successfully if pet parents are proactive like the Sigalls. Thanks to quick-thinking parents and the seamless communication between the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center and hospital staff, Winnie is now home and healthy, enjoying a diet of strictly “pooch-appropriate” treats.

Since the toxic potential of grapes and raisins is still an enigma, it’s best to avoid feeding them to your pet in any amount or any form. Furthermore, never underestimate your dog’s ability to raid the kitchen—keep all people food tucked away in hard-to-reach cabinets. If you do suspect your pet has ingested something poisonous, call your vet or the APCC’s hotline at (888) 426-4435. Worried about remembering all those digits? Order our free APCC magnet—a cool way to keep the hotline close!

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Vote Yes on California Prop 2 – End Farm Animal Abuse!

STOP ANIMAL CRUELTY!!!

Tomorrow, on the “Oprah” show, I’ll be making the case to millions of people that California’s Proposition 2, if successful, will end the cruel confinement of 20 million farm animals.

I’m also excited to tell you that The New York Times endorsed Prop 2 last week — a huge win for the campaign. As you probably know, Prop 2 will end the practice of cramming farm animals into cages and crates so small the animals can’t even turn around, lie down, or extend their limbs.

If passed, Prop 2 will be the biggest victory for farm animals in California’s history.

But standing in the way is Big Agribusiness, which is pouring millions of dollars into a deceptive campaign here to defeat Prop 2 and preserve factory farms’ cruel confinement practices.

The next 21 days before the election will be pivotal — and we can’t win without your support and your vote on Election Day.

Here’s the latest news, and a few ways you can help:

On tomorrow’s show (Tuesday, October 14), I’ll be going head-to-head with the front men of the agribusiness industry in defense of the 20 million farm animals in California who don’t have room to turn around or stretch their limbs. Click here to find out when the show will air where you live.

Here’s a snippet: “The fact that such fundamental decencies have to be forced upon factory farming says a lot about its horrors. We urge California voters to pass Proposition 2. We urge every state to enact similar laws.” Click here to read the full editorial on my blog.

Here are two ways you can help pass this historic measure right now:

1. Support the YES! on Prop 2 campaign by visiting the campaign website and learning about the many ways you can help.

2. If you haven’t already, watch our animated video and pass it along to your neighbors, friends, and family in California.

YES! on Prop 2 is a true grassroots campaign, funded by thousands of small donations from animal lovers like you. By contrast, the deceptive No on Prop 2 campaign is bankrolled by a handful of rich agribusiness corporations from across the country – with an average donation of more than $40,000.

The factory farm industry is blinded by the bottom line. No matter how much money they dump into defeating this measure, they can’t stamp out the truth: Prop 2′s commonsense reforms are long overdue.

Thank you for being a part of this campaign. On November 4, millions of animals will be thanking you, too.

Sincerely,

Wayne Pacelle
President & CEO
The Humane Society of the United States 

Permalink: http://justonemorepet.wordpress.com/2008/10/14/vote-yes-on-ca…nia-prop-2-end/