from www.yahoo.com
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Andrea ThompsonLiveScience Staff WriterLiveScience.com Mon Oct 22, 8:25 AM ET
Whether they bark, meow, squeak, chirp or hiss, pets are treasured household members for most Americans at some point, and recent surveys show more and more people are welcoming animals into their homes and treating them as family.
Two-thirds of American households (about 71.1 million) have at least one pet, according to a survey of pet owners conducted last year by the American Pet Products Manufacturers Association. That number was an increase from the 56 percent of households that owned a pet in 1988, the first year the survey was conducted.
And 45 percent of pet owners have more than one pet, according to American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals science advisor Stephen Zawistowski.
There is now a "huge rise in the number of pets" in the United States, said Humane Society spokesperson Stephanie Shain.
These pets, especially cats and dogs, are also increasingly considered to be an essential part of a family, with U.S. pet owners spending more time and money (estimated at nearly $41 billion in 2007) on the health and happiness of their pets in recent years. Things that would once have seemed extravagant—doggy daycares, pet cemeteries, and an expanding array of pet surgeries and treatments—are now as common as, well, the family dog.
Family members
While owning a pet is almost the norm today, in eras past, it was a luxury, says Alan Beck, a veterinary professor with Purdue University's Center for the Human-Animal Bond. While farmers may have kept cats to rid their barns of mice and dogs to herd or help with hunting, keeping an animal solely as a companion was something for which only the wealthy had the free time and disposable income.
But as the American middle class emerged and grew in the 20th century, all of that changed and pets, like cars and TV sets, became something that anyone could have.
"More people have discretionary time, discretionary income," Beck said. "So you don't have to be one of the upper echelon to have a pet."
Pet ownership in America really began to take off after World War II, Zawistowski said, as families not only earned more income, but began to move to the suburbs, where they had more room to keep pets.
Adding to this was the changing notion of what constituted the typical American family, which was shaped by how families were portrayed on TV and in the movies. In addition to a mom, dad and kids, these fictional families had a dog and cat, sending the message that pets were an essential part of home life.
"These all started to create the image of what the American household, or the American home, was supposed to look like" Zawistowski said.
Pets aren’t just a part of the household like the TV or computer is—they are more and more thought of as full-fledged family members. Beck said that 40 percent of people who keep pictures of their spouse and children in their wallet also keep pictures of their pets, "because it is a member of the family."
There's also the strong sense of grief many owners feel when a pet dies, plus the consoling response of family and friends.
"It's very much accepted that it's a real loss," Shain said.
Pet owners can now to keep their pet's ashes in an urn or purchase a headstone or marker in a pet cemetery, and friends and co-workers can send a condolences card from Hallmark.
"In some ways, an event is culturally relevant when Hallmark makes a card," Zawistowski said.
Societal acceptance
Pets are increasingly recognized by society as an important part of their owners' lives. This is particularly the case with dogs, as more opportunities have cropped up to make it easier to keep a canine companion.
The problem of what to do with a dog while the owner is at work now has several solutions: More businesses are allowing people to bring their dogs to work (the Humane Society just instituted such a policy), doggy daycares are springing up and people are increasingly allowed to telecommute or work from home.
Some stores and bars even allow dogs to accompany their owners inside.
"We're allowing dogs more and more into our lives in places where they absolutely didn't used to be allowed," Shain said.
Television shows on networks such as Animal Planet that focus on pets also serve to reinforce the norm of having a pet, Beck added.
Veterinary care
Additional key factors in the proliferation of pet owners are improvements in veterinary care and the development of products that make caring for all types of pets easier, particularly fish, birds and reptiles, which formerly required highly specialized knowledge for their care and feeding.
"We understand now more than ever how pets work," Shain said.
Veterinary medicine has expanded, with specialties devoted to particular animals and disease types (such as cancers). Vets have also developed a better understanding of many of the common diseases that plague pets.
"Our knowledge has grown, we know more about what it takes to do a good job of keeping our pets happy and healthy, and that has in turn led to them living longer, which has resulted in them having other needs," Zawistowski said.
Now there are options to treat diseases and ailments that 20 years ago would have necessitated putting the animal to sleep, Zawistowski said. Vets can perform more complicated surgeries, pets with broken limbs can have them mended and chemotherapy can be performed on cats with cancer or dialysis on those with kidney problems (two common feline ailments).
Because these options are available, people are now willing to spend thousands of dollars to treat their pets and keep them alive, whereas in the past they would have simply put them to sleep.
With pets living longer, owners are paying more attention to what they feed pets and issues such as dental care. For instance, dogs used to die earlier, so it didn't matter as much that their teeth started falling out around the age of 7 or 8, but now, with some dogs living upwards of 15 years, those teeth become important to a dog's long-term health.
These needs also have led to a proliferation of pet foods and treats aimed at keeping pets
healthy, though most owners tend not to go for the really fancy stuff, Zawistowski said.
Pet economy
Pet stores and products tailored to pets are certainly more of a modern invention, with the first true pet stores emerging after World War II. The availability of pet food and other basic care items made owning a pet much easier.
Before the 1950s and the advent of cat litter, for example, keeping a cat in the house was something of a stinky proposition. Litter boxes were literally just that, wooden boxes filled with sand that the cats could do their business in, but it did little to keep the smell at bay.
"It used to be more of a do-it-yourself thing. There wasn't really a store that you went to and bought cages and food and things," Zawistowski said
Some of the recent increase in pet products beyond the basic necessities comes from a recognition that pets need things besides food, water and some affection. For instance, it's good for dogs to go to the groomer and for cats to have toys to play with.
"It's no longer considered a luxury for dogs to go the groomer," Shain said.
Though the pet industry has led to more high-end products, such as designer doggy clothes and carriers and cat spas, the majority of pet owners don't go in for those luxuries. Most of the money spent on pets, according to the American Pet Products Manufacturers Association survey, goes to food, veterinary care and basic supplies.
But even with all the advances that have made owning a pet easier, there's still one main reason why people get a pet.
"The most fundamental thing … when people have done studies of 'Why do you want to have a pet?', it's for companionship," Zawistowski said.
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www.caitlyns-k9.com
Thursday, October 25, 2007
Wednesday, October 24, 2007
The Effect of the Fires on Animals
from www.cnn.com
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By Cybil WallaceCNN
(CNN) -- In San Diego County, officials are racing, literally, to save pets and livestock left behind by hundreds of thousands of residents fleeing the raging wildfires.
Horses stand in a pen as fire threatens the Bonita neighborhood in San Diego, California.
For the County of San Diego Department of Animal Services, it's nonstop work to save as many lives as possible, said Lt. Daniel Desousa.
"We're doing the best we can to keep ahead of the flames and pull the animals out," he said Tuesday. "Are animals going to be killed? Yes. But we're doing the best we can."
With help from Los Angeles and the Humane Society of the United States, the county's 30 animal services officers have been answering calls from people who left their pets and livestock behind as well as those who have seen animals left in evacuated areas.
Many people calling don't have enough trailers to get all of their horses to safety and need help, he said.
"I never knew we had so many horses here," Desousa said. "And we're seeing even more this time because our fires are bigger and worse (than the 2003 fires that swept the area)."
At a fairground in San Diego County, 2,000 horses are being boarded, but Desousa said it seems like horses are being housed everywhere -- even mall parking lots -- with their anxious owners standing next to them.
"If you have an open space, we'll put horses on it," he said.
The Humane Society's Curtis Ransom is stationed at an emergency campground in San Diego County where people have taken refuge with their dogs, cats, horses and even goats.
"It's a whole different situation from Katrina; people are taking care of the animals," Ransom said.
"The message has gotten out. It's a horrible disaster, but as far as the facilities and the willingness to take in animals, I don't think there's any hesitation," he said.
He said they have received invitations from shelters to take in pets -- they even have one place that could house an elephant, if needed -- and many of the evacuation areas are allowing people to bring their furry friends.
Also, news stations are informing people about where they can take their animals if their neighborhood is evacuated, Ransom said.
Desousa said the county has been so busy with the work, they don't have figures on how many animals they've saved and evacuated.
One officer called to say there was a bird left in a house in the fire's path. He wanted to know if he should kick in the door to get the animal. Desousa told him that the door won't matter if the fire destroys the house. Save the bird, he told him.
Other times, flames have been too close for officers to grab the animals, Desousa said.
On the job for 19 years, Desousa said this is the worst series of wildfires he's seen.
Even many of the officers themselves have been evacuated.
Desousa has his three dogs, three cats, a tortoise and a snake in his office. He said when they were told to evacuate, they divvied up priorities.
"I ran home, grabbed the animals and my wife grabbed the family photos," he said.
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www.caitlyns-k9.com
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By Cybil WallaceCNN
(CNN) -- In San Diego County, officials are racing, literally, to save pets and livestock left behind by hundreds of thousands of residents fleeing the raging wildfires.
Horses stand in a pen as fire threatens the Bonita neighborhood in San Diego, California.
For the County of San Diego Department of Animal Services, it's nonstop work to save as many lives as possible, said Lt. Daniel Desousa.
"We're doing the best we can to keep ahead of the flames and pull the animals out," he said Tuesday. "Are animals going to be killed? Yes. But we're doing the best we can."
With help from Los Angeles and the Humane Society of the United States, the county's 30 animal services officers have been answering calls from people who left their pets and livestock behind as well as those who have seen animals left in evacuated areas.
Many people calling don't have enough trailers to get all of their horses to safety and need help, he said.
"I never knew we had so many horses here," Desousa said. "And we're seeing even more this time because our fires are bigger and worse (than the 2003 fires that swept the area)."
At a fairground in San Diego County, 2,000 horses are being boarded, but Desousa said it seems like horses are being housed everywhere -- even mall parking lots -- with their anxious owners standing next to them.
"If you have an open space, we'll put horses on it," he said.
The Humane Society's Curtis Ransom is stationed at an emergency campground in San Diego County where people have taken refuge with their dogs, cats, horses and even goats.
"It's a whole different situation from Katrina; people are taking care of the animals," Ransom said.
"The message has gotten out. It's a horrible disaster, but as far as the facilities and the willingness to take in animals, I don't think there's any hesitation," he said.
He said they have received invitations from shelters to take in pets -- they even have one place that could house an elephant, if needed -- and many of the evacuation areas are allowing people to bring their furry friends.
Also, news stations are informing people about where they can take their animals if their neighborhood is evacuated, Ransom said.
Desousa said the county has been so busy with the work, they don't have figures on how many animals they've saved and evacuated.
One officer called to say there was a bird left in a house in the fire's path. He wanted to know if he should kick in the door to get the animal. Desousa told him that the door won't matter if the fire destroys the house. Save the bird, he told him.
Other times, flames have been too close for officers to grab the animals, Desousa said.
On the job for 19 years, Desousa said this is the worst series of wildfires he's seen.
Even many of the officers themselves have been evacuated.
Desousa has his three dogs, three cats, a tortoise and a snake in his office. He said when they were told to evacuate, they divvied up priorities.
"I ran home, grabbed the animals and my wife grabbed the family photos," he said.
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www.caitlyns-k9.com
Tuesday, October 23, 2007
Pet Experts Announce Healthiest Cities for Pets
My mom wants to live in Denver....
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Pet Experts Announce Healthiest Cities For Pets
A new study reveals which U.S. cities are top dogs when it comes to pet health.
The study, conducted by the Purina Pet Institute, ranked those cities that exemplify superior care, services and legislation for pets' health and well-being. It analyzed 30 different criteria ranging from veterinarian-to-pet ratios to incidence of obesity to rabies legislation. The top five Pet Healthiest Cities are:
1. Denver, Colo.
2. Oakland, Calif.
3. Portland, Ore.
4. Anaheim, Calif.
5. San Francisco, Calif.
"This is the only comprehensive evaluation of factors that impact pets' health and affect their quality of life," said Dan Christian, DVM, executive director of the Purina Pet Institute. The data revealed that pet obesity/body condition and preventative care are major issues.
According to veterinarians surveyed, more than half of the nation's cats and dogs are overfed, which can lead to health problems. An unprecedented 14-year Purina study proved that feeding dogs properly throughout their lifetime to maintain ideal body condition can significantly extend their healthy years.
Other significant results:
• Cats and dogs in San Francisco can claim clean lungs-the city has the lowest cigarette usage in the report and boasts zero annual ozone alert days.
• New York City and Oakland scored highest for percentage of dogs neutered (83 percent) and New York City tied with San Jose for highest percentage of cats neutered (86 percent).
• In the body condition category, New Orleans scored highest for percentage of dogs at ideal body weight (50 percent) and Nashville took top score for percentage of cats at ideal body weight (50 percent).
• Columbus, Ohio leads the country in the veterinarian-to-pet ratio with one veterinarian for every 745 pets.
While it is important to understand the environmental elements that affect a pet's health-such as the availability of qualified care, the prevalence of fleas or the requirements of licensing-there are many things individual pet owners can do to help improve their pet's health.
"
The things pet owners control -obesity, preventative care, spaying and neutering-can literally add, or detract, healthy years from a pet's life," said Christian.
Pet enthusiasts can log on to www.purina.com to find out more about the report and what they can do for their own pet's health.
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www.caitlyns-k9.com
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Pet Experts Announce Healthiest Cities For Pets
A new study reveals which U.S. cities are top dogs when it comes to pet health.
The study, conducted by the Purina Pet Institute, ranked those cities that exemplify superior care, services and legislation for pets' health and well-being. It analyzed 30 different criteria ranging from veterinarian-to-pet ratios to incidence of obesity to rabies legislation. The top five Pet Healthiest Cities are:
1. Denver, Colo.
2. Oakland, Calif.
3. Portland, Ore.
4. Anaheim, Calif.
5. San Francisco, Calif.
"This is the only comprehensive evaluation of factors that impact pets' health and affect their quality of life," said Dan Christian, DVM, executive director of the Purina Pet Institute. The data revealed that pet obesity/body condition and preventative care are major issues.
According to veterinarians surveyed, more than half of the nation's cats and dogs are overfed, which can lead to health problems. An unprecedented 14-year Purina study proved that feeding dogs properly throughout their lifetime to maintain ideal body condition can significantly extend their healthy years.
Other significant results:
• Cats and dogs in San Francisco can claim clean lungs-the city has the lowest cigarette usage in the report and boasts zero annual ozone alert days.
• New York City and Oakland scored highest for percentage of dogs neutered (83 percent) and New York City tied with San Jose for highest percentage of cats neutered (86 percent).
• In the body condition category, New Orleans scored highest for percentage of dogs at ideal body weight (50 percent) and Nashville took top score for percentage of cats at ideal body weight (50 percent).
• Columbus, Ohio leads the country in the veterinarian-to-pet ratio with one veterinarian for every 745 pets.
While it is important to understand the environmental elements that affect a pet's health-such as the availability of qualified care, the prevalence of fleas or the requirements of licensing-there are many things individual pet owners can do to help improve their pet's health.
"
The things pet owners control -obesity, preventative care, spaying and neutering-can literally add, or detract, healthy years from a pet's life," said Christian.
Pet enthusiasts can log on to www.purina.com to find out more about the report and what they can do for their own pet's health.
----------------
www.caitlyns-k9.com
Monday, October 22, 2007
Should Rescue Groups Reclaim Dogs?
The following is a link to MSNBC who is running a poll on whether rescue groups should reclaim pets ... this following the Ellen fiasco. http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/21367635/
I have mixed feelings on all of this. Rescue should, first and foremost, be about finding the right home for the right dog. When my mom was in rescue, what she believed is that it was about matching the right dog to the right home, not just placing a dog in any home that happened to be qualified. There are many many qualified homes out there, but not all dogs fit in all homes. It is a matter of the dog's temperament, the family's wants in a dog, and how they blend together. We were fortunate in that out of all of the dogs my mom helped place, only one was ever returned. But sometimes mom had to steer the family away from one dog because she knew it wouldn't work, and introduce them to another dog who was more suitable to their home and lifestyle.
So...if Iggy (Ellen's dog) was happy at the home Ellen gave him to, I'm not sure he shouldn't have just been left there, especially if they were responsible pet owners. Yes, they signed a contract saying they would give the dog back to the rescue group, but when push comes to shove, it should be about what is right for the dog, not what is legally required. But since I don't know the dog, don't know the family, and don't know the circumstances, I will have to refrain from really having an opinion on any of this. All I know is that it is sad what it is doing to the rescue community and the reputations it is ruining...guilt by association, you know. The old adage "birds of a feather flock together." Yeah, to0 many sayings, I know, but people do tend to generalize. If one rescue group believes something, they all must. But all groups are different. It's what makes the world so wonderful. If we all agreed, it would be closer to a dictatorship, not the America we all know and love.
All I know is that there is no greater love than an abandoned or abused pet who finally finds love with a great new family/owner. Once that dog finds love, kindness and generosity of spirit, they never forget it and will love you unconditionally. There is no greater joy than watching a rescue dog learn, usually for the first time, about love and devotion.
Caitlyn (and her mom)
www.caitlyns-k9.com
I have mixed feelings on all of this. Rescue should, first and foremost, be about finding the right home for the right dog. When my mom was in rescue, what she believed is that it was about matching the right dog to the right home, not just placing a dog in any home that happened to be qualified. There are many many qualified homes out there, but not all dogs fit in all homes. It is a matter of the dog's temperament, the family's wants in a dog, and how they blend together. We were fortunate in that out of all of the dogs my mom helped place, only one was ever returned. But sometimes mom had to steer the family away from one dog because she knew it wouldn't work, and introduce them to another dog who was more suitable to their home and lifestyle.
So...if Iggy (Ellen's dog) was happy at the home Ellen gave him to, I'm not sure he shouldn't have just been left there, especially if they were responsible pet owners. Yes, they signed a contract saying they would give the dog back to the rescue group, but when push comes to shove, it should be about what is right for the dog, not what is legally required. But since I don't know the dog, don't know the family, and don't know the circumstances, I will have to refrain from really having an opinion on any of this. All I know is that it is sad what it is doing to the rescue community and the reputations it is ruining...guilt by association, you know. The old adage "birds of a feather flock together." Yeah, to0 many sayings, I know, but people do tend to generalize. If one rescue group believes something, they all must. But all groups are different. It's what makes the world so wonderful. If we all agreed, it would be closer to a dictatorship, not the America we all know and love.
All I know is that there is no greater love than an abandoned or abused pet who finally finds love with a great new family/owner. Once that dog finds love, kindness and generosity of spirit, they never forget it and will love you unconditionally. There is no greater joy than watching a rescue dog learn, usually for the first time, about love and devotion.
Caitlyn (and her mom)
www.caitlyns-k9.com
Wednesday, October 10, 2007
Millions Dress Dogs for Halloween
Millions Dress Dogs for Halloween
Survey reveals 7.4 million households plan on dressing up their dogs and cats this year.
As Halloween approaches, millions of families across the United States will be searching for the perfect costume.
For their pets, that is. Approximately 7.4 million households plan on dressing up their dogs and cats for Halloween, according to a survey by the National Retail Federation.
“Many consumers who own pets think of them as family members,” said NRF President and CEO Tracy Mullin. “Pet owners will go all out to include dogs, cats and other critters in Halloween festivities, including trick-or-treating, handing out candy, or even celebrating at a friend or family member’s house.”
The survey revealed the top 15 costumes for pets, which include:
Devil
Pumpkin
Witch
Princess
Angel
Pirate
Hot Dog
Bat
Black Cat
Clown
Athlete
Bumble Bee
Ghost
Bowtie/fancy collar/bandana
Superhero
Surveyors polled 8,877 consumers from Sept. 4 to 11, 2007, in an effort to gauge Halloween shopping trends. The NRF is the world’s largest retail trade association, and its members include department, specialty, discount, catalog, Internet, drug, and grocery stores.
Check out the costumes at my site at www.caitlyns-k9.com.
Survey reveals 7.4 million households plan on dressing up their dogs and cats this year.
As Halloween approaches, millions of families across the United States will be searching for the perfect costume.
For their pets, that is. Approximately 7.4 million households plan on dressing up their dogs and cats for Halloween, according to a survey by the National Retail Federation.
“Many consumers who own pets think of them as family members,” said NRF President and CEO Tracy Mullin. “Pet owners will go all out to include dogs, cats and other critters in Halloween festivities, including trick-or-treating, handing out candy, or even celebrating at a friend or family member’s house.”
The survey revealed the top 15 costumes for pets, which include:
Devil
Pumpkin
Witch
Princess
Angel
Pirate
Hot Dog
Bat
Black Cat
Clown
Athlete
Bumble Bee
Ghost
Bowtie/fancy collar/bandana
Superhero
Surveyors polled 8,877 consumers from Sept. 4 to 11, 2007, in an effort to gauge Halloween shopping trends. The NRF is the world’s largest retail trade association, and its members include department, specialty, discount, catalog, Internet, drug, and grocery stores.
Check out the costumes at my site at www.caitlyns-k9.com.
Tuesday, October 9, 2007
Apparel Gone to the Dogs
Apparel Gone to the Dogs (Impressions Magazine)
Dogs are, in fact, people too. Need proof? Consider the following: The American Pet Products Manufacturers Association, Inc. (APPMA), Greenwich, Conn., estimates that 54% of dog owners will buy their pets at least one present during the holidays, and an average of seven gifts throughout the year.
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Check out my web site for your holiday shopping - we have some really cool things and are updating our web site with new pet fashion continually. In fact, we now carry clothes for dogs up to 200 lbs. So if you need big dog clothes, stop by and see us. Of course, we can also fit a 1 lb. dog as well so check out our teacup clothing as well!
www.caitlyns-k9.com
Dogs are, in fact, people too. Need proof? Consider the following: The American Pet Products Manufacturers Association, Inc. (APPMA), Greenwich, Conn., estimates that 54% of dog owners will buy their pets at least one present during the holidays, and an average of seven gifts throughout the year.
-------------------------
Check out my web site for your holiday shopping - we have some really cool things and are updating our web site with new pet fashion continually. In fact, we now carry clothes for dogs up to 200 lbs. So if you need big dog clothes, stop by and see us. Of course, we can also fit a 1 lb. dog as well so check out our teacup clothing as well!
www.caitlyns-k9.com
Monday, October 8, 2007
Police crack down on small dogs in big cars
I think this is called discrimination. Can we get enough chihuahuas to file a class action against the Oklahome police?
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Oklahoma: Police Crack Down on Small Dogs in Big Cars
Police in Tulsa, Oklahoma ticket a woman for allegedly driving with a tiny Chihuahua in her lap.Police in Tulsa, Oklahoma are ticketing motorists $120 for the crime of driving with a small dog in their lap.
Shannon Medlock fell victim of the city ordinance that she had no idea even existed. The twenty-two-year-old motorist had a clean record until her Chihuahua hopped into her lap while the Ford F-150 pickup truck she was was driving had stopped behind a police officer at a stop sign. The dog, Mickey, took a look out the driver's side window.
Noticing this, the officer pulled Medlock over."I was shocked when I learned why he stopped me," Medlock told the Tulsa World newspaper. "I see dogs hanging out windows of cars all the time."
Medlock always pushed aside her dog once the truck was in motion, but the Tulsa police officer claimed he saw Mickey being bounced around in the vehicle while she was driving."
It's a big truck," Medlock told the Tulsa World. "It would be difficult to see my little dog."The officer that wrote Medlock was responsible for half of all the "dog in lap" tickets issued in Tulsa which have generated nearly $2000 in revenue.
Source: Dog on board: Poochs lap ride results in ticket (Tulsa World (OK), 10/5/2007)
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www.caitlyns-k9.com
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Oklahoma: Police Crack Down on Small Dogs in Big Cars
Police in Tulsa, Oklahoma ticket a woman for allegedly driving with a tiny Chihuahua in her lap.Police in Tulsa, Oklahoma are ticketing motorists $120 for the crime of driving with a small dog in their lap.
Shannon Medlock fell victim of the city ordinance that she had no idea even existed. The twenty-two-year-old motorist had a clean record until her Chihuahua hopped into her lap while the Ford F-150 pickup truck she was was driving had stopped behind a police officer at a stop sign. The dog, Mickey, took a look out the driver's side window.
Noticing this, the officer pulled Medlock over."I was shocked when I learned why he stopped me," Medlock told the Tulsa World newspaper. "I see dogs hanging out windows of cars all the time."
Medlock always pushed aside her dog once the truck was in motion, but the Tulsa police officer claimed he saw Mickey being bounced around in the vehicle while she was driving."
It's a big truck," Medlock told the Tulsa World. "It would be difficult to see my little dog."The officer that wrote Medlock was responsible for half of all the "dog in lap" tickets issued in Tulsa which have generated nearly $2000 in revenue.
Source: Dog on board: Poochs lap ride results in ticket (Tulsa World (OK), 10/5/2007)
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www.caitlyns-k9.com
Thursday, October 4, 2007
People Foods Dogs Shouldn't Eat
FOODS LIKE RAISINS AND NUTS THAT ARE GOOD FOR US CAN BE BAD FOR OUR DOGS, K-STATE VETERINARIAN SAYS
Many conscientious dog owners wouldn't think of giving their canine a tasty but dangerous chocolate bar. But they may not know that giving a dog a handful of fruit or nuts can be just as risky.
Seemingly harmless foods like fruits and nuts that have health benefits for people can be dangerous to dogs, said Ken Harkin, associate professor of clinical sciences at Kansas State University's College of Veterinary Medicine.
Harkin says a few foods to watch out for include:
* Raisins. A healthful snack food for people, they can wreak havoc on dogs. Harkin said raisin toxicity is a relatively rare condition that can result in kidney failure. Symptoms include vomiting and diarrhea before the dog takes a dramatic turn for the worse.
* Macadamia nuts. Harkin warns that the tasty and pricey nuts are toxic to dogs and create hind limb weakness, tremors, depression, vomiting and fever. He said dogs usually recover.
* Moldy food. What grosses you out may not even faze your dog. Your pet's indiscriminating tastes can lead to trouble. Harkin said moldy food can produce a tremor syndrome in dogs that can result in seizures.
* Bread dough. Even a food fundamental to many human diets can be dangerous when it's uncooked. Harkin said bread dough isn't good for dogs or children, either. The yeast can ferment in your dog's stomach and produce signs of "ethanol ingestion" -- drunkenness. A ball of dough also can obstruct the dog's gastrointestinal tract.
* Dark chocolate. Even though dark chocolate is being touted as a good source of antioxidants for humans, chocolate still is unsafe for dogs. "The major offenders would be cocoa powder and baker's chocolate, with dark chocolate and semisweet chocolate behind these," Harkin said. "It takes three times as much dark chocolate to equal baker's chocolate."
If you suspect your dog has ingested an excessive amount of one of these foods, Harkin says to call your dog's veterinarian.
He also recommends a good quality commercial dog or cat food as the staple in a pet's diet. Harkin says don't offer too many table scraps or other treats, as pets could develop a picky appetite and not eat their nutritionally balanced diet. He said although it is not common, it has become a problem with some pets. When doting pet owners wanting to offer something from their plates, Harkin emphasizes moderation.
"The main reason not to feed table scraps is to avoid obesity," he said.
Foods like raisins aren't necessary dangerous in small amounts but can be when given in excess, Harkin said.
"You would never eat 16 cups of raisins in one sitting, so why would you give a 5- or 10-pound dog a half cup of raisins in one sitting?" he said. "A few grapes or raisins never hurt any dog, but it's the massive amount they consume that kills them."
Dogs don't know when enough is enough, Harkin said.
"Dogs get more toxicity issues with raisins, grapes and macadamia nuts because they have that gluttonous instinct to eat everything in sight, and they eat well above the toxic level," Harkin said. "You just don't see many cats, birds or reptiles doing that.
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www.caitlyns-k9.com
Many conscientious dog owners wouldn't think of giving their canine a tasty but dangerous chocolate bar. But they may not know that giving a dog a handful of fruit or nuts can be just as risky.
Seemingly harmless foods like fruits and nuts that have health benefits for people can be dangerous to dogs, said Ken Harkin, associate professor of clinical sciences at Kansas State University's College of Veterinary Medicine.
Harkin says a few foods to watch out for include:
* Raisins. A healthful snack food for people, they can wreak havoc on dogs. Harkin said raisin toxicity is a relatively rare condition that can result in kidney failure. Symptoms include vomiting and diarrhea before the dog takes a dramatic turn for the worse.
* Macadamia nuts. Harkin warns that the tasty and pricey nuts are toxic to dogs and create hind limb weakness, tremors, depression, vomiting and fever. He said dogs usually recover.
* Moldy food. What grosses you out may not even faze your dog. Your pet's indiscriminating tastes can lead to trouble. Harkin said moldy food can produce a tremor syndrome in dogs that can result in seizures.
* Bread dough. Even a food fundamental to many human diets can be dangerous when it's uncooked. Harkin said bread dough isn't good for dogs or children, either. The yeast can ferment in your dog's stomach and produce signs of "ethanol ingestion" -- drunkenness. A ball of dough also can obstruct the dog's gastrointestinal tract.
* Dark chocolate. Even though dark chocolate is being touted as a good source of antioxidants for humans, chocolate still is unsafe for dogs. "The major offenders would be cocoa powder and baker's chocolate, with dark chocolate and semisweet chocolate behind these," Harkin said. "It takes three times as much dark chocolate to equal baker's chocolate."
If you suspect your dog has ingested an excessive amount of one of these foods, Harkin says to call your dog's veterinarian.
He also recommends a good quality commercial dog or cat food as the staple in a pet's diet. Harkin says don't offer too many table scraps or other treats, as pets could develop a picky appetite and not eat their nutritionally balanced diet. He said although it is not common, it has become a problem with some pets. When doting pet owners wanting to offer something from their plates, Harkin emphasizes moderation.
"The main reason not to feed table scraps is to avoid obesity," he said.
Foods like raisins aren't necessary dangerous in small amounts but can be when given in excess, Harkin said.
"You would never eat 16 cups of raisins in one sitting, so why would you give a 5- or 10-pound dog a half cup of raisins in one sitting?" he said. "A few grapes or raisins never hurt any dog, but it's the massive amount they consume that kills them."
Dogs don't know when enough is enough, Harkin said.
"Dogs get more toxicity issues with raisins, grapes and macadamia nuts because they have that gluttonous instinct to eat everything in sight, and they eat well above the toxic level," Harkin said. "You just don't see many cats, birds or reptiles doing that.
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www.caitlyns-k9.com
Tuesday, October 2, 2007
Michael Vick Pit Bulls Available for Adoption
Some good news out of all of this mess..
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Of the 49 dogs found on property belonging to Michael Vick, only one needs to be put down. The remaining 48 dogs are suitable for adoption.
That was the finding by a team of dog behavioral experts assembled by the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals to test the dogs. According to a motion filed Monday in U.S. District Court, the dogs fall into five categories that include eventual adoption and specialized training for law enforcement work. Some of the dogs either exhibited fear toward people or suffered from a medical condition.
The one dog that needs to be put down couldn't even be examined because the examiners couldn't get close enough. The motion also requests that the court appoint a guardian to oversee the disposition and possible placement of the 48 remaining dogs.
So, if you would like one of the 48 remaining dogs, write a letter to US District Judge Henry Hudson, the ASPCA, or the US Attorney all in Richmond, VA.
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www.caitlyns-k9.com
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Of the 49 dogs found on property belonging to Michael Vick, only one needs to be put down. The remaining 48 dogs are suitable for adoption.
That was the finding by a team of dog behavioral experts assembled by the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals to test the dogs. According to a motion filed Monday in U.S. District Court, the dogs fall into five categories that include eventual adoption and specialized training for law enforcement work. Some of the dogs either exhibited fear toward people or suffered from a medical condition.
The one dog that needs to be put down couldn't even be examined because the examiners couldn't get close enough. The motion also requests that the court appoint a guardian to oversee the disposition and possible placement of the 48 remaining dogs.
So, if you would like one of the 48 remaining dogs, write a letter to US District Judge Henry Hudson, the ASPCA, or the US Attorney all in Richmond, VA.
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www.caitlyns-k9.com
Chicken Jerky recall
Oh my gosh, thankfully this doesn't involve the chicken jerky I eat, as chicken jerky is in fact my favorite food in the whole wide world.
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Food & Drug Administration, Maryland, United States (September 27th 2007)
Consumers are being warned of a potential association between Chinese-made chicken jerky products and development of illness in dogs. The products can also be described as chicken tenders, strips or treats and more than 95 animals have been reported as experiencing illness that their owner associates with eating such products.
The Food and Drug Administration has conducted extensive chemical and microbial testing but has not identified any contaminant, and is therefore unable to determine a definitive cause for the reported illnesses. So far, they have ruled out melamine, one of the chemicals that led to the massive pet food recall this spring, and various bacteria such as Salmonella.
The AVMA has learned that all complaints have involved jerky treats from China.
Banfield, The Pet Hospital, has presented data that suggests an association between exposure to the chicken jerky products and signs of gastrointestinal illness (vomiting, diarrhea and bloody diarrhea). Affected dogs have typically displayed decreased food consumption; decreased activity or lethargy; vomiting; diarrhea and increased water consumption and/or increased urination. Some or all of these signs may be present in any individual. Blood tests may indicate kidney failure (increased urea nitrogen and creatinine). Urine tests may indicate Fanconi syndrome (increased glucose). The FDA's statement says that "most" dogs that have been reported so far survive the illness.
The FDA is advising consumers who choose to feed their dogs chicken jerky products to watch the dogs closely for any of the symptoms described above. While a list of brand/product names of affected treats is not yet available, the American Veterinary Medicine Association (AVMA) has learned that all complaints have involved jerky treats from China. We recommend that pet owners use their best judgment in this matter.
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www.caitlyns-k9.com
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Food & Drug Administration, Maryland, United States (September 27th 2007)
Consumers are being warned of a potential association between Chinese-made chicken jerky products and development of illness in dogs. The products can also be described as chicken tenders, strips or treats and more than 95 animals have been reported as experiencing illness that their owner associates with eating such products.
The Food and Drug Administration has conducted extensive chemical and microbial testing but has not identified any contaminant, and is therefore unable to determine a definitive cause for the reported illnesses. So far, they have ruled out melamine, one of the chemicals that led to the massive pet food recall this spring, and various bacteria such as Salmonella.
The AVMA has learned that all complaints have involved jerky treats from China.
Banfield, The Pet Hospital, has presented data that suggests an association between exposure to the chicken jerky products and signs of gastrointestinal illness (vomiting, diarrhea and bloody diarrhea). Affected dogs have typically displayed decreased food consumption; decreased activity or lethargy; vomiting; diarrhea and increased water consumption and/or increased urination. Some or all of these signs may be present in any individual. Blood tests may indicate kidney failure (increased urea nitrogen and creatinine). Urine tests may indicate Fanconi syndrome (increased glucose). The FDA's statement says that "most" dogs that have been reported so far survive the illness.
The FDA is advising consumers who choose to feed their dogs chicken jerky products to watch the dogs closely for any of the symptoms described above. While a list of brand/product names of affected treats is not yet available, the American Veterinary Medicine Association (AVMA) has learned that all complaints have involved jerky treats from China. We recommend that pet owners use their best judgment in this matter.
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www.caitlyns-k9.com
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