Thursday, July 29, 2010

From Cooked Dog Books To Sad Dog News

Well the books didn’t work out for a Williamson County Animal Control Department in Franklin, Tenn. after an audit of the books found an employee named Kerrania Jensen had stolen over one hundred thousand dollars.

This is real low to steal from an animal shelter that could have used the money to help the shelter take care of the abandon pets.

The director of the Comptroller's Division of County Audit Jim Arnette said: There was a lot of trust put into Ms. Jensen. When you put that trust in an individual, it's very disturbing to find out they've been committing a fraud.

Read the article here.


In Pryor, Oklahoma the SPCA had rescued eight King Charles Cavalier Spaniels that were living in inhumane conditions at a Amish farm with no running water or electric.

Cruelty Investigator Wade Farnan said: Filthy, hadn't been cleaned in I don't know when. Some of them had water, some of them didn't.

Read the article here.

If you want to adopt one of these dogs you can go to www.tulsaspca.org


The Humane Society is offering a two thousand dollars reward to find out who is responsible for stoning the animals in Washington, DC . There have been some twelve animals killed in the past month by these reckless thugs.

Read the article by Malachi Constant here.


The Morgan Hill Police arrested a sick’o named Kevin Fitfield back on Tuesday for dragging what was reported as a terminally ill dog named Snowflake on the ground after someone reported this guy.

How could you do something like that to your dog?

Read the article here.


A guy named George Cochran had his pit bull tethered outside and due to the rope binding up which caused the poor dog to hang himself. The Lee County Animal Services had told George at an earlier date to use a better way to tie his dog up but now it’s too late for his poor dog.

I hope other people that tie their dog up outside think twice about how they tie up their dog, before their dog dies too.

Read the article by Linh Bui here.


Richmond, VA is reporting around five thousand calls this year just on animal cruelty which seems like a real lot for any one area.

Richmond's director of Animal Care and Control Jody Jones said: People are asking us to come out and investigate these types of crimes. And help them fix the crimes that are taking place in their neighborhoods. The increase in calls has led to some wonderful prosecutions here in Richmond.

Hopefully more people in all areas of the word will report any animal cruelty that they see to help put a stop to the abuse to our friends.

Read the article by Rachel DePompa here.

Wednesday, July 28, 2010

What Is A Parasite Called Leishmaniosis

New Advances in Understanding of Parasite Risk Showcased at CVBD World Forum

FirstCall/ --

- Studies Reveal Impact and Spread of CVBDs Worldwide

Fascinating studies giving new insights into the spread of leishmaniosis in the UK and France, the appearance of new CVBDs in Germany, the state of heartworm infection in Korea and the neurological impact on humans of long-term bartonella infection from the USA are among the papers now available for download from http://www.cvbd.org, as the proceedings of the 5th Annual Canine Vector Borne Disease (CVBD) World Forum are made available online today.

The recent changes in travel restrictions between the UK and continental Europe coupled with increases in average temperatures in the UK have potentially dramatically lowered the barriers to new CVBDs entering the UK. The risk of one of these diseases, leishmaniosis, has been studied by the team led by Dr Susan Shaw, University of Bristol, UK, who presented their findings at the CVBD meeting in New York. Dr Shaw reported on an in-depth study of 257 dogs diagnosed in the UK with confirmed leishmaniosis between 2005 and 2007. However, her laboratory has dealt with over 900 cases since 2000 when the PETS travel scheme was initiated. This is a significant increase from previous studies and a number which they believe to be underestimated based on lack of awareness of the symptomatology in clinical cases and the number of sub-clinically infected dogs entering the UK. According to Dr Shaw, "This increased prevalence raises the very real prospect of leishmaniosis becoming established in the UK if the sand fly vector appears in this country. Indeed, there is a worrying possibility that there is already transmission occurring in the UK, as a number of dogs in our study had no history of travel outside the UK at all." More information on Dr Shaw's study can be found at http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.vetpar.2009.03.025.

Further evidence of the risk posed by the movement of dogs within Europe was presented by Dr Torsten Naucke. Dr Naucke's study looked at more than 4,500 dogs imported into Germany, and found that nearly one in four (23.4%) were infected with babesiosis, and more than one in ten were infected with leishmaniosis (12.2%) and ehrlichiosis (10.1%). According to Dr Naucke, "Based on these findings the importation of dogs from endemic regions to Germany, as well as travelling with dogs to these regions carries a significant risk of acquiring an infection. We would recommend that pet owners seek the advice of their veterinarians prior to importing a dog from an endemic area or travel to such areas." For more information on Dr Naucke's finding, visit http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2857866/?tool=pubmed

Dr Jean-Pierre Dedet shared his group's work on developing the first risk map for canine leishmaniosis in France. Having studied more than 40 years of records, the group was able to establish the major areas of endemicity in France. The largest cluster was found in the southern slopes of the Cevennes Mountains and two regions of the Provence and Maritime Alps; a small reduced cluster was found in the North West of France around Tours. Based on the environment in which these clusters were found, the team led by Dr Dedet has been able, for the first time, to develop a model showing which areas of France are most at risk of leishmaniosis, allowing veterinarians and pet owners to better understand the risks faced by dogs, and to take appropriate preventative measures. For more information on the study and risk map, go to http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2857865/?tool=pubmed

Away from Europe, Professor SungShik Shin of Chonnam National University, Korea, led a study looking at the levels of CVBDs in both rural and urban dogs in Korea, an area that has been little studied in the past. This study looked at hunting dogs in the countryside, and found that more than two in five dogs (40.6%) tested positive for a CVBD. The most common CVBD among these dogs was heartworm (Dirofilaria immitis), with a remarkable 22.3% of working dogs testing positive. The other three CVBDs tested for were also notably common, with Anaplasma phagocytophilum, Ehrlichia canis, and Borrelia burgdorferi infection levels of 18.8%, 6.1% and 2.2% respectively. When they looked at urban dogs, the picture was markedly different, with only cases of heartworm being found; however the levels of heartworm were nearly as high in this population as in the rural population at around one in seven dogs (14.6%).

Finally, Dr Edward Breitschwerdt of North Carolina State University, USA, presented a case of bartonella infection in a father and daughter from the USA. This case involved a veterinarian who developed a number of chronic symptoms over a period of years, including arthralgia, progressive weight loss, muscle weakness and lack of coordination. His daughter had recently also developed headaches, muscle pain and insomnia. On investigation, the father and daughter were found to be infected with one species and one sub-species of bartonella which, after extended treatment were eventually eliminated, leading to complete remission of symptoms. "These two cases demonstrate the very real threat posed to humans by CVBDs. It's all too easy to forget that there are many of these diseases that, while not common in humans, can cause significant suffering and even death. It's in part because of this risk to humans that I would encourage all veterinarians to ensure they are educated on the symptoms of CVBDs in dogs, as it is only by protecting dogs that we can protect ourselves," said Dr Breitschwerdt.

The proceedings include all the presentations given at the 5th CVBD World Forum in New York, sponsored Bayer Animal Health, where leading experts in CVBDs from around the world met to share the latest research on these important diseases. Sarah Weston of Bayer Animal Health spoke of the CVBD World Forum, "The CVBD World Forum is another example of Bayer Animal Health delivering on our commitment to improving the understanding and treatment of CVBDs. As we have seen at this meeting, this is an area where knowledge is still rapidly expanding, and we are proud to play our part in helping to bring people together to share information and develop new approaches to the study and prevention of CVBDs".

About CVBDs

For more information about CVBDs, visit http://www.CVBD.org

Michigan Takes First Set Of Votes To Ban Scientific Experiments On Shelter Dogs & Cats

American Humane Legislation Banning Shelter Animal Seizure Passes Michigan State House

American Humane is encouraged that the proposed state legislation it created to stop shelter dogs and cats from being seized by Class B dealers for scientific experiments has passed the Michigan House of Representatives.

"One can only imagine the horror of having your family pet wind up in a shelter and then be sold to a Class B dealer for scientific experiments before it can be picked up or find a new home," said Allie Phillips, a former prosecutor who authored the legislation in her role as American Humane's vice president of strategic initiatives. "This is a heartbreaking and cruel practice that must be stopped."

By a vote of 78-20, Michigan's House of Representatives passed House Bill 4663 (Koda's Law), which, if approved also by the Senate, would effectively end the 30-year practice of pet dealers taking shelter dogs and cats for sale to research facilities. Under current law, Class B dealers (named after their type of U.S. Department of Agriculture license) engage in the practice of providing shelter animals around the nation to research laboratories for experimentation. There are currently nine Class B dealers that broker live animals for experimentation in the United States, with three being located in Michigan.

The landmark legislation was sponsored by State Rep. John Espinoza (D-Croswell) and authored by American Humane, the nation's historic voice of advocacy and awareness for the protection of children and animals. Founded in 1877, Denver-based American Humane provides public policy leadership, education and direct action incorporating a vast network of agencies, academic institutions, businesses and individual Americans to help protect children and animals from abuse and neglect.

Previous efforts in Michigan to ban Class B dealers have gone county by county, and there are currently two remaining shelters in the state that practice pound seizure.

The bill will now move to the Michigan Senate for consideration.

For more information on this and other issues relating to the protection of children and animals, please visit American Humane at www.americanhumane.org.

About American Humane

Founded in 1877, the Denver-based American Humane Association is the only national organization dedicated to protecting both children and animals from abuse and neglect through public policy, education and services reaching a wide network of organizations and advocates. Programs include raising awareness about The Link® between violence to people and violence to animals, as well as the benefits derived from the human-animal bond. The organization is also known for "No Animals Were Harmed,"® the end-credit disclaimer seen on film and TV productions. American Humane® Certified is the nation's largest and most highly regarded independent standards and certification program for farm animal welfare. American Humane meets the strong, comprehensive standards of the Better Business Bureau's Wise Giving Alliance and has earned the Independent Charities of America's "Best in America" Seal of Approval. Learn more at www.americanhumane.org.

Tuesday, July 27, 2010

IFAW Says Your Not Going To Shoot These Dogs

IFAW, NSALA Save Unwanted Dogs From Canada 'Dog Shoot'


IFAW (the International Fund for Animal Welfare) rescued 36 dogs from a "dog shoot" in Northern Canada that was scheduled to control the local dog population. IFAW worked with rescues and shelters across Eastern Canada to find homes for twenty-nine of the dogs. The remaining seven dogs will arrive at North Shore Animal League America (NSALA) in Port Washington, N.Y. today, where they will have a second chance at permanent homes in the United States.

IFAW's Northern Dogs Project team was in a remote Canadian community providing vital veterinary care and humane education when concerned community members alerted IFAW's team that due to concerns about the number of roaming dogs, unwanted dogs would soon be rounded up and shot. In many remote communities without access to regular veterinary care, this is often considered the only means of controlling the dog population.

"Once we heard about the dog shoot, we immediately collaborated with a vocal minority of community members who wanted to find a humane solution for these unwanted dogs," said IFAW's Canadian project manager, Jan Hannah. "It is a mark of tremendous progress for the community to move from dog shooting to considering transport as a humane alternative."

This community is one of eight in which IFAW has been working with since 2002, providing veterinary services, animal welfare education and outreach, assistance with animal control regulations and, in some cases, finding homes for unwanted dogs.

North Shore Animal League America's SVP of Operations Joanne Yohannan said, "The seven dogs that are being humanely relocated represent the hope for all of the roaming dogs in this area. It is an example that you do not have to shoot animals to combat an overpopulation problem."

In 2005, IFAW and NSALA teamed up during IFAW's Chinese dog rescue to find new homes for 30 homeless dogs from an overcrowded shelter in China, which could not be legally re-homed in Beijing due to local size and breed restrictions and strict dog ownership regulations. These high profile dogs helped raise awareness about shelter pets and led to increased shelter adoptions. To adopt a dog or cat, contact North Shore Animal League America at 516-883-7575.

About IFAW (the International Fund for Animal Welfare)

Founded in 1969, IFAW saves animals in crisis around the world. With projects in more than 40 countries, IFAW rescues individual animals, works to prevent cruelty to animals, and advocates for the protection of wildlife and habitats, www.ifaw.org

About North Shore Animal League America

North Shore Animal League America, headquartered in Port Washington, NY, is the world's largest no-kill animal rescue and adoption organization. Over the past decade, the Animal League has rescued, nurtured and adopted an average of 20,000 animals each year. Since its founding 1944, it has placed close to 1 million puppies, kittens, cats and dogs into carefully screened homes, www.animalleague.org

Monday, July 26, 2010

What's The Top Sources For Pet Poision

Nation's Largest Pet Insurer Reveals the Sources of Pet Poisoning

Pet owners often joke about pets being like vacuum cleaners literally eating anything put in front of them. Unfortunately, that lack of dietary discretion too often results in pets ingesting toxic substances, emergency visits to the veterinarian, and large medical bills. Veterinary Pet Insurance Co. (VPI), the nation's oldest and largest provider of pet health insurance, has analyzed its database of more than 485,000 insured pets to find the sources behind the hundreds of poisoning claims submitted to VPI every month. Following is a ranking of the nearly 20,000 pet poisoning claims VPI received between 2005 and 2009:

Accidental Ingestion of Medications (pet or human drugs)
5,131

Rodenticide (mouse & rat poison)
4,028

Methylxanthine Toxicity (chocolate, caffeine)
3,661

Plant Poisoning
2,808

Household Chemicals
1,669

Metaldehyde (snail, slug poison)
396

Insecticide
323

Heavy Metal Toxicity (lead, zinc)
288

Toad Poisoning
270

Antifreeze Poisoning
213

Walnut Poisoning
100

Alcohol Toxicity
75

Strychnine
28




VPI policyholders spent more than $6.6 million between 2005 and 2009 treating their pets for poisoning. Accidental ingestion of pet or human medications, the most common type of poisoning, cost policyholders an average of $791 per claim. The most expensive type of poisoning, heavy metal poisoning, cost an average of $952 per claim.

"Not only can a poisoning incident be life-threatening for the pet, it's traumatic for the pet owner as well," said Dr. Carol McConnell, vice president and chief veterinary medical officer for VPI. "Depending on what substance the pet has ingested and the amount, the reaction can be sudden with the animal exhibiting alarming symptoms such as staggering, vomiting, drooling, seizures, and even loss of consciousness. We recommend that pet owners be aware of which items around their homes can be harmful to their pets – medications, insect poisons, chocolate, and certain nuts – and keep these items safely out of reach. Also, they shouldn't assume that their pets will ignore that bottle of bleach in the laundry room or the Philodendron plant by the window. Our data shows this just isn't so."

In addition to taking steps to avoid poisoning emergencies, pet owners should be prepared for such an emergency should it arise. For example, owners should keep the phone number of their pets' regular veterinarian and a phone number for an emergency veterinary hospital handy at all times. For more information about pet poisoning prevention and poisoning first-aid, please visit the Pet Poison Helpline at www.petpoisonhelpline.com.

About Veterinary Pet Insurance

With more than 485,000 pets insured nationwide, Veterinary Pet Insurance Co./DVM Insurance Agency is the No. 1 veterinarian-recommended pet health insurance company and is a member of the Nationwide Insurance family of companies. Providing pet owners with peace of mind since 1982, the company is committed to being the trusted choice of America's pet lovers and an advocate of pet health education. VPI Pet Insurance plans cover dogs, cats, birds and exotic pets for multiple medical problems and conditions relating to accidents, illnesses and injuries. Optional Pet CareGuard® for routine care is also available.

Medical plans are available in all 50 states and the District of Columbia. More than 2,000 companies nationwide offer VPI Pet Insurance as an employee benefit. Policies are underwritten by Veterinary Pet Insurance Company in California and in all other states by National Casualty Company, an A+15 rated company in Madison, Wisconsin. Pet owners can find VPI Pet Insurance on Facebook or follow @VPI on Twitter. For more information about VPI Pet Insurance, call 800-USA-PETS (800-872-7387) or visit www.petinsurance.com.

Sunday, July 25, 2010

Procter & Gamble Cat Food Recall

P&G Recalls Two Lots of Prescription Renal Diet Cat Food Due to a Possible Health Risk

The Procter & Gamble Company (P&G) (NYSE: PG), is voluntarily recalling two specific lots of its prescription renal dry cat food as a precautionary measure, as it has the potential to be contaminated with salmonella.

The following products are included:

Product Name Lot Code UPC Code
------------ -------- --------
Iams Veterinary Formulas Feline Renal 5.5 lbs 01384174B4 0 19014 21405 1
--------------------------------------------- ---------- ---------------
Iams Veterinary Formulas Feline Renal 5.5 lbs 01384174B2 0 19014 21405 1
--------------------------------------------- ---------- ---------------


This product is available by prescription through veterinary clinics throughout the U.S.

No illnesses have been reported. A FDA analysis identified a positive result on the lot codes listed above. Lot codes can be found in the lower right corner on the back of the bag.

Consumers who have purchased dry cat food with these codes should discard it. People handling dry pet food can become infected with Salmonella, especially if they have not thoroughly washed their hands after having contact with surfaces exposed to this product. Healthy people infected with Salmonella should monitor themselves for some or all of the following symptoms: nausea, vomiting, diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, abdominal cramping and fever. Rarely, Salmonella can result in more serious ailments including arterial infections, endocarditis, arthritis, muscle pain, eye irritation and urinary tract symptoms. Consumers exhibiting these signs after having contact with this product should contact their healthcare providers.

Pets with Salmonella infections may have decreased appetite, fever and abdominal pain. If left untreated, pets may be lethargic and have diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, fever and vomiting. Infected but otherwise healthy pets can be carriers and infect other animals or humans. If your pet has consumed the recalled product and has these symptoms, please contact your veterinarian.

For further information or a product refund call P&G toll-free at 877-894-4458 (Monday - Friday, 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM EST).

Saturday, July 24, 2010

Dog Abuse To Dog Attacks


Warning This Video Is Very Upsetting

This is a sad story for a dog and her babies in Duncan, British Columbia when the Cowichan Valley SPCA tried to rescue eight puppies and the mother it was so sickening that even the employees of the SPCA were upset when they seen these dogs.

Sad enough that only the mother and one of her babies had survived from the maggot fill place. Hopefully the owner will be charged for this unthinkable crime she did to these dogs.

Read the article here.


Down under in the NSW there has been an outbreak in dog attacks that are numbering some thirteen hundred in the past three months. So with dog killing dog going on and all the attacks on people you just wonder what is going on down there.

Read the article here.

Thursday, July 22, 2010

Some People Don't Belong Near A Dog

A lowlife named Joshua Headden from Pleasure Ridge Park, KY has been charged with cruelty to animals and torture for breaking a dog’s leg last month.

I hope the local judge throws the book hard at this creep.

Read the article here.


Over in Fort Collins, Colorado a dog killer named Nicole Anderson has been arrested and charged with felony charge of aggravated cruelty to animals for killing her boyfriends dog that killed her dog.

This person named Nicole went way over the edge on this one when she and her ex husband Robert Anderson not only shot the dog they tried to chock the dog to death and break its neck, until she finally slit the dogs throat.

How cruel is that when her boyfriend asked to bring the dog to a kennel until he got home. This is so upsetting to read about the bizarre act these two did to the dog.

Read the article by Kim Nquyen here.


A girl from Memphis, TN named Sherry Wooten has been charged with reckless homicide along with four counts of felony reckless endangerment for allowing two known vicious pit bulls to run on a terror spree that resulted in the death a man named William Parker. There were also four people that were bitten by these dogs.

Our Prayers go out to the William Parker’s family for this sick nightmare these two dogs did due to Sherry Wooten .

Read the article by Caroline Cody here.

Wednesday, July 21, 2010

If Your Dog Wants Ice Cream You Need To Be At The Boomerang Pets Party


The Boomerang Pets Party will be held this weekend at the Regent’s Park in London and will be having a dog’s treat of ice cream. What is being called the first ice cream truck for dogs called K99 that will be serving dog eat hog world which is a gammon and chicken sorbet topped with a biscuit and served in a cone and canine cookie crunch which is a combination of mixed dog biscuits and ice cream.

What lucky dogs, they will be able to get an ice cream treat just made for dogs.

Read the article here.

Tuesday, July 20, 2010

The Orvis 2010 Cover Dog Contest Winners Are



Orvis Unveils Winners of The 2010 Cover Dog Contest And Kicks Off 2011 Contest

Outdoor Company Supports Canine Cancer Research Through Fundraising Contest

Today the Orvis Company announced the winners of the Orvis 2010 Cover Dog contest. The contest, in partnership with Eukanuba, raised more than $200,000 for the Morris Animal Foundations’ (MAF) Cure Canine Cancer Program. Photos of the 12 winning dogs can be seen on the Orvis website at www.orvis.com/coverdog.

Over 12,000 Orvis customers submitted photos of their dogs, which were voted on by customers and ultimately selected for the cover of the Orvis Dog catalog by a panel of judges.

The following are 2010 Cover Dog contest winners: Sarah Winchester (Boston, MA), Sasha Jenkins (Knoxville, TN), Scott Walden (Chapel Hill, NC), Gina Heitland (Arlington, TX), Tracy Skiba (Mount Juliet, TN), Kathy Olding (Tok, AK), Elise Templet (Dover-Foxcroft, ME), Robert Scarano (Monroe, CT), Jennifer Watkins (Brownstown Twp., MI), Randy Simmons (Boca Grande, FL), Matthew Holbrook (Indianapolis, IN), Sandra Conner (Dover, DE).

The 2011 contest is now underway and dog lovers are encouraged to submit photos of their dogs to be voted on through the Orvis website. As last year, the public will have the opportunity to vote on photos of their favorite dogs with each vote costing one dollar and all proceeds going to the Morris Animal Foundations’ Canine Cancer program. A panel will approve the final winner.

The Orvis Cover Dog contest is a chance for dog lovers to share photos of their pets at their best as well as raise money to help cure canine cancer, the leading cause of death in dogs over the age of two. Partnering with the Morris Animal Foundation is important to Orvis, offering many products and services that benefit both dog and owner.

“We are pleased to partner with Orvis in the challenge to cure canine cancer,” said Dan Reed, Director of Corporate Partnerships. “Thanks to Orvis, Eukanuba and their customers, this contest succeeded well beyond our expectations and raised much needed funds and awareness of our efforts.”

Not long ago, a cancer diagnosis for a dog meant a short, painful life. Fortunately, in recent years, veterinary scientists have made tremendous strides in the area of canine cancer research. Their breakthroughs have led to the development of new treatments aimed at curing canine cancer and extending the lives of our faithful friends and companions.

You can enter the 2011 Orvis Cover Dog contest on the Orvis website at www.orvis.com/coverdog and follow Orvis on Facebook at www.orvis.com/facebook.

About Orvis
Founded in 1856, Orvis is recognized as a leader in providing products and solutions for dogs and their owners. Orvis donates five percent of pre-tax profits each year to protecting nature, supporting communities and advancing canine health. You can read more about Orvis on their website at www.orvis.com.

About The Morris Animal Foundation
MAF has funded more than 100 canine cancer studies so far, driving the fundraising and helping coordinate the research of school of veterinary medicine, cancer centers, and scientific organizations around the world.

Monday, July 19, 2010

A Dogs Thought


Do you think we will get to go outside today? I've been eyeing that brush all day... I've been eyeing that tree over on the right, I wish they would get home so that we could go outside....

Sunday, July 18, 2010

Go Ahead And Drop Your Dog Off Here, They’ll Live In Hell


Photo by Joe Bryksa


Could you only imagine a dog living in a place like this, well there were forty four dogs living in the dump called hell.

The Winnipeg Humane Society rescued the dogs from Judy and Peter Chernecki who say that they were just trying to save the dogs. Save the dogs in a place like this, come on it was so bad that three of the dogs had to be put down.

Read the article by Gabrielle Giroday here.

Friday, July 16, 2010

Does Your Dog Eat One Of These?

Before I get into this my two dogs are very picky on what they eat and different types of dog food and treats might get one of the dogs upset and not the other. So we all need to watch what our dogs are eating, especially something new.

A group of dog owners that meet at the Marco Island Dog Park in Florida have been experiencing their dogs getting sick over a dog treat called chicken jerky products that are made in China. No there isn’t any recalls, it just that some of the dog owners dogs have been getting sick from eating these treats.

So the bottom line is with any treat of dog food is that if your dog gets sick from it try stopping your dog from eating the treat or food and see what happens.

Read the article by Chris Curle and Don Farmer here.


Now the British Veterinary Association is warning dog owners about the danger of the artificial sweetener which is called Xylitol.

So what’s in the food you are feeding your dog?

The Head of Service at VPIS Alexander Campbell said: With the increasing number of products containing Xylitol on the market the VPIS recognises the extreme importance of raising awareness of the danger to dogs of ingesting this substance, particularly in the light of a case we handled the other evening which involved a dog eating a muffin made with this sugar substitute.
This is yet another instance where a food or food additive deemed safe for human consumption proves to be dangerous for other species. Pets should really only be given foodstuffs formulated for them.

What the BVA is saying is: Xylitol is not considered harmful to humans, but if ingested by a dog the substance is dangerous because it triggers a sudden release of insulin which causes a dramatic drop in blood sugar (hypoglycaemia) and can lead to liver damage.

Read the article here.

Sometimes A Dog Just Needs To Relax In This Heat

Thursday, July 15, 2010

Cat Lovers, Feline’s Pride Expands It's Recall

Feline’s Pride Expands Nationwide Recall of its Natural Chicken Formula Cat Food Due to Salmonella Contamination

Feline’s Pride is expanding its July 1, 2010 voluntary recall of Feline’s Pride Raw food with ground bone for cats and kittens, Natural Chicken Formula, Net Wt. 2.5 lbs. (1.13 kg., 40 oz.) produced on 6/10/10 to include the product produced on 6/21/10, because it may be contaminated with Salmonella. People handling raw pet food can become infected with Salmonella, especially if they have not thoroughly washed their hands after having contact with the raw pet food or any surfaces exposed to the product.

When consumed by humans, Salmonella can cause an infection, salmonellosis. The symptoms of salmonellosis include nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramps, minimal diarrhea, fever, and headache. Certain vulnerable populations, such as children, the elderly, and individuals with compromised immune systems, are particularly susceptible to acquiring salmonellosis from such pet food products and may experience more severe symptoms.

Pets with Salmonella infections may be lethargic and have diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, fever, and vomiting. Some pets will have only decreased appetite, fever and abdominal pain. Infected but otherwise healthy pets can be carriers and infect other animals or humans. If your pet has consumed the recalled product and has these symptoms, please contact your veterinarian.

The product is packaged in uncoded plastic containers and sold frozen to private consumers nationwide. Once thawed, the pet food has a shelf life of about 1 week. The firm manufactures the pet food by an as-ordered basis. This expansion of the recall affects those orders placed and shipped from June 21 through June 26, 2010 (produced on 6/21/10).

The firm and FDA are investigating this matter to determine the source of this problem, and will take any additional steps necessary to protect the public health.

To date, both the firm and the FDA have received no reports of Salmonella infection relating to this product.

People who are experiencing the symptoms of Salmonella infection after having handled the pet food product should seek medical attention, and report their use of the product and illness to the nearest FDA office.

People should thoroughly wash their hands after handling the pet food – especially those made from raw animal protein such as meat or fish -- to help prevent infection. People may risk bacterial infection not only by handling pet foods, but by contact with pets or surfaces exposed to these foods, so it is important that they thoroughly wash their hands with hot water and soap.

Since certain vulnerable populations, such as children, the elderly, and individuals with compromised immune systems, are particularly at risk from exposure they should avoid handling this product.

Consumers with questions should contact the company at (716) 580-3096, Monday -Friday from 10 am - 4 pm EDT.

Wednesday, July 14, 2010

A Dog Round Up Day

Georgia Dog Fighting Ring Busted

Four people named Andre Crews, Becky Crawford Devecio R Rowland and Ciara Rowland have been arrested for operating a dog fighting operation, cruelty to animals along with other charges.

The Polk County Police worked on a four month investigation with the Norred & Associates that lead to the raid on the home where they found some thirty three dogs that were used in the dog fights.

All’s I can say is Great team work to help put an end to another group of heartless people. Read the article by Kevin Rowson here.


The Philly Police also had their hands full when they finally raided a home in South Philadelphia that had around one hundred dogs in it. Turns out that it took a few months to get a warrant before they were able to rescue these dogs from a woman who is being called a hoarder.

George Bengal of the SPCA said: We got three floors, they're in every floor, in every bedroom, every room in the property.
Due to the home being uninhibited the city has condemned the home after all those dogs lived in their own mess. How sad to have all these dogs living in a place called hell, due to the neglect of this woman.

Read the article here.




Another Rescue from a dog hoarder from Providence, R. I. where the Police and the Rhode Island Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals removed some sixty dogs.

The Pawtucket Animal Control officer John Holmes said: They appear to all be in fairly good condition, I didn't see anything that raised a red flag other than the large number of dogs.

So was this just another puppy mill bust or what, when they found mainly Chihuahuas and Dachshunds there.

Read the article by Darren Soens and Sean Daly here.

Tuesday, July 13, 2010

Nature's Variety Presents The Largest Dog Ice Cream Social

Nature's Variety® Teams Up With Retailers to Host World's Largest Dog Ice Cream Social


Leader in Holistic Pet Food to Celebrate National Ice Cream Month With Slate of Nationwide Events Benefiting Local Pet Shelters

Nature's Variety, the leader in raw frozen pet food, believes that everyone, including dogs, should celebrate National Ice Cream month. So Nature's Variety and independent pet food retailers throughout the United States will be hosting fun, cool and tasty dog ice cream socials this July. July serves as the official "National Ice Cream Month" as designated by former President Ronald Reagan in 1984. In order to pay homage to one of America's favorite summer treats, Nature's Variety is providing its frozen dessert product for dogs, SweetSpots ®, to nearly 60 different "World's Largest Dog Ice Cream Social" events taking place over the weekend of July 17 – 18, 2010.

While dogs can have a sweet tooth, human ice cream is not ideal for our canine friends. It is high in refined sugars, contains high levels of lactose, high in fat and calories, and may contain chocolate or other ingredients that are potentially toxic to dogs. SweetSpots is much different than human ice cream – it is a frozen dessert made from low lactose dairy ingredients, moderate levels of natural sweeteners (like molasses and honey), and fortified with probiotics for better digestive health. SweetSpots comes in two delicious and nutritious flavors: Sweet Potato & Molasses and Peanut Butter & Honey.

In addition to raising awareness about the importance of feeding dogs a healthy frozen dessert treat instead of human ice cream, Nature's Variety's "World's Largest Dog Ice Cream Social" will also be making a local community impact, raising funds for local pet shelters and adoption agencies. For every cup of SweetSpots consumed at official "World's Largest Dog Ice Cream Social" events, Nature's Variety will make a donation to a local pet charity in each market. In New York City, Nature's Variety will be hosting 5 official "World's Largest Dog Ice Cream Social" events and each event will benefit The Mayor's Alliance for NYC Animals. The Mayor's Alliance is a coalition of more than 160 animal rescue groups and shelters that is working with Animal Care & Control of New York City (AC&C) to end the killing of healthy and treatable cats and dogs at AC&C shelters. To achieve that goal, the Alliance, a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit corporation, helps its Alliance Participating Organizations work to their highest potential to increase pet adoptions and spay/neuter rates, with the goal of transforming New York City into a no-kill community by 2015.

Nature's Variety teams up with The Bark magazine for "Sweet Licks" contest

In conjunction with Nature's Variety, The Bark, a fun, lifestyle magazine for dog lovers, is hosting the "Sweet Licks" contest to celebrate National Ice Cream Month and Nature's Variety's "World's Largest Dog Ice Cream Social." The contest encourages dog owners from across the country to submit photos and videos of their prized pooch licking his lips for Nature's Variety's frozen treat, SweetSpots. The contest will run throughout July 2010, designated as National Ice Cream Month and will take place on The Bark's website. Everyone who enters will receive a discount coupon to purchase SweetSpots, while the winner of the "Sweet Licks" contest will win a free one-year supply of Nature's Variety's SweetSpots frozen dessert treats. For more information and to submit contest entries, please visit The Bark magazine at www.thebark.com.

For a schedule of "World's Largest Dog Ice Cream Social" events by market, visit www.naturesvariety.com.

About Nature's Variety

Nature's Variety specializes in natural, holistic dog and cat food. The line of premium products was developed by families who have been practicing sustainable agriculture for more than 140 years, raising quality livestock and growing crops in America's heartland. Nature's Variety offers the purest forms of pet nutrition – including a wide variety of protein choices in every pet food form (raw frozen diets, dry kibble diets, canned diets, and treats). For more information about Nature's Variety, visit www.naturesvariety.com.

So How Dose Your Dog Food Rate For The Safest And Healtiest

Having a Ruff Time Deciding Which Dog Food to Get Your Pet? Greenopia Updates its Green Pet Food Guide
Today Greenopia updated its independent sustainability ratings of over 30 popular pet food brands sold in the USA. The only brands receiving the coveted Greenopia Four-Green-Leaf Award were Karma of Natura Pet Products, The Honest Kitchen, and Raw Advantage.

While pet owners are typically conscious of what they feed their animal, there is a lot of confusion as to which products are made from high quality sources and which ingredients are the safest. With its guide, Greenopia aims to educate consumers and help them find the pet foods that are made with the best ingredients and are also the safest for the planet.

"Pet food recalls are happening more and more frequently," said Gay Browne, Greenopia's founder. "Sometimes it is hard to know which brands are safest and healthiest for your pet. We've combined analysis of sustainability issues and health considerations to make it clear to our readers which products are better for the environment and their pets."

Greenopia collected data from manufacturers and independent credible sources about each brand's ingredients, packaging, sustainability reporting, supply chain, animal testing policies, and green building design. Companies were given additional points for their adoption of environmental initiatives. Around one-third of the brands evaluated earned zero-leaf ratings, revealing them to be below Greenopia's minimum green threshold.

”From our analysis, it seems that the pet food industry as a whole is not as environmentally progressive as many others,” said Doug Mazeffa, Research Director of Greenopia. “We hope to see more pet food brands incorporate environmental principles into their production and increase their transparency so consumers can make the most informed decisions for their pets.”

Four brands earned a three-leaf-rating: Dr. Harvey's, Newman's Own Organics, Wellness and Wenaewe.

The complete pet food ratings are available online for free at Greenopia Pet Food Ratings. Greenopia employs its award-winning eco-analysis method to deliver actionable green-assessments to the rapidly growing green consumer market. Green businesses and merchants use Greenopia's targeted marketing methods to effectively reach consumers making greener choices.

About Greenopia: The leading online directory for green, sustainable and socially conscious, daily purchase decisions. Greenopia provides the market's only independent rating, ranking and listings of green services and products. Our rankings and ratings are based on our review of publicly available information and reflect our evaluation of such information. To learn more, please visit www.greenopia.com.

Monday, July 12, 2010

So Do You Have The Funniest Dog, AvenaPro Wants To Know

AvenaPro Pet Solutions, Inc. Announces the National "LOL Pet Photo Contest"


AvenaPro Pet Solutions, Inc. announces their nationwide "LOL Pet Photo Contest", searching for the nation's funniest dog or cat. Pet owners can upload their favorite photos or videos on the AvenaPro Facebook fan page for a chance to win a brand new Kindle and other great prizes. The "LOL Pet Photo Contest" is in celebration of AvenaPro's newest line of all-natural pet grooming supplies.

AvenaPro Pet Solutions, Inc. announced today the nationwide "LOL Pet Photo Contest", searching for America's funniest pets. The California based pet grooming supplies company is calling out to all dog and cat owners across the United States and Canada to submit a video or photo of their pet's silly antics for a chance to win a brand new Kindle and a six month supply of AvenaPro's natural pet grooming supplies, a prize valued at over $300.

Second and third place winners will receive a $20 iTunes gift certificate and a trial supply of AvenaPro's natural pet grooming products, prizes valued at over $70.

Entering the AvenaPro contest is easy. Pet owners can just upload their funny photos or videos to the AvenaPro Facebook fan page, along with a brief description. All photos and videos must be submitted no later than September 19, 2010. Contest winners will be announced September 27, 2010.

All contest entries will be posted on our Facebook wall. Winning entries will also be featured on the AvenaPro Facebook page.

"Pets bring so much joy into our lives, and their carefree behavior can often be the source of many laughs. We saw this contest as a great opportunity to allow pet owners everywhere to show off some of their most amusing pet moments through videos and photographs." Said Tim Yewchuk, President of AvenaPro Pet Solutions, Inc.

The nationwide contest also marks the official release of AvenaPro's new advanced line of natural pet grooming products for dogs and cats. Interested dog and cat owners can visit the "LOL Pet Photo Contest" page to view the contest entry instructions and all rules and regulations.

Please click here for more information on the Nationwide "LOL Pet Photo Contest".

About AvenaPro Pet Solutions Inc.

AvenaPro Pet Solutions Inc. is a pet health company offering natural solutions for cat and dog grooming. AvenaPro pet grooming products represent a number of scientific breakthroughs in oatmeal skin and hair therapy. Used for thousands of years for the relief of dryness and irritation, oats have long been recognized for their skin healing properties. AvenaPro has harnessed a novel technology which unlocks the active ingredients found in oats for improved health benefits. A safe and gentle alternative to harsh chemicals or steroids, AvenaPro pet products are clinically proven to reduce shedding, itching and dandruff better than the leading veterinary therapies. The AvenaPro line of products include a Soothing Spray Conditioner,Pet Shampoo and Ear Cleanser. All AvenaPro products are proudly manufactured using environmentally friendly processing technologies.

For more information, please contact Tim J. Yewchuk at (760) 666-3969.

Sunday, July 11, 2010

Why Would Anyone Shoot 33 Dogs?

How in the world could you just go out and shoot some thirty three dogs with no regards? Apparently two (whatever you want to call them) named Tony Campbell and Russell Mendoza from the Auckland, NZ area shot poor Rowan Hargreaves dogs on his property for some unknown reason. Now the two have been arrested and charged with animal cruelty along with other charges.

This is so upsetting to read about what these two did to the poor dogs, hopefully the Judge with make them pay.

Read the article here.

Saturday, July 10, 2010

The Slaughter Of The Dogs

Over in Baghdad, Iraqi they are killing the stray dogs left and right. With an estimate of over one million dogs running free though out the city the authorities have taken matters in their own hands and have been shooting and poisoning some fifty eight thousand dogs already.

You would have thought that they would have tried to do this in a more humane way and even tried to work on adoption of some these dogs. Where is the love for the dogs in this country, doesn't anybody care for these animals to just let the killing go on?

Read the article by Bushra Juhi here.

Friday, July 9, 2010

Some Doggie News

Over in Aberdeen, Scotland there is a warning by the PDSA that there might be a breakout of Canine Parvovirus.

Read the article here.


I was reading an article that talked about a woman who left her Labrador in the car and forgot that good old Max was still in there. Well luckily the dog was able to blow the horn looking for some help to get out and the owner Donna Gardner finally found the dog in the car.

What really got me was that the article said that she was a good dog owner, so how in ____ would you leave your dog in the car and not realize it within a few minutes. Just shows me how much you really cared about your dog. Luckily the dog didn’t die in the heat.

Read the article by Joscelyn Moes here.


Tape your dog to the fridge and you get jail for your stupid act. That’s what Abby Toll from Colorado got for taping her boyfriend’s dog Rex to the fridge last year, now she will serve thirty days in jail and three years’ probation for her dumb act.

It’s funny because poor little Abby Toll calls herself an animal love, ya right.

Read the article by John Aguilar here.


The Crawford County sheriff's deputies have arrest a lowlife named Edward Vandagriff from Arkansas and charged him with felony animal cruelty for beating his two little cocker spaniels with a hammer which caused one of the dogs to be put down.

How sad is that to do something like that to a little dog.

Read the article here.

Thursday, July 8, 2010

New Hampshire Outlaws Greyhound Racing

Statement by GREY2K USA on the Signing of House Bill 630 by Governor John Lynch and the End of Greyhound Racing

The following statement was released today by GREY2K USA:

"We received confirmation this morning that Governor John Lynch has signed into law House Bill 630, a humane proposal to outlaw greyhound racing in New Hampshire. New Hampshire now joins a majority of states where greyhound racing is illegal.

"This is a victory for everyone in the state who cares about animals. It sends a clear message that we will not tolerate cruelty, regardless of whether the perpetrator is an individual or a profit-driven industry.

"Greyhound racing is cruel and inhumane. At New Hampshire racetracks thousands of dogs endured lives of terrible confinement and many suffered serious injuries. According to state records, nearly 1,200 greyhounds were injured in New Hampshire since 2005, including dogs that suffered broken legs, paralysis, and head trauma.

"New Hampshire has a rich tradition when it comes to the humane treatment of animals and this tradition was strengthened today by the signing of House Bill 630. Dogs play an important role in our lives and deserve to be protected from individuals and industries that would do them harm.

"We are extremely grateful to Governor Lynch for his signing of this humane bill and to everyone who fought for its passage. In particular, we would like to thank Senator Sheila Roberge and Representatives Mary Cooney, Steve Vaillancourt, John Reagan, and Mary Beth Walz. Without their extraordinary leadership this victory would not have been possible."

GREY2K USA is a national non-profit greyhound protection organization with more than 25,000 supporters in all fifty states. For more information, go to www.GREY2KUSA.org.

Wednesday, July 7, 2010

Sad Dog News Today

In Missouri the Stone County deputies have busted a possible dog fighting ring when they seized nineteen pit bulls with the help of the Humane Society.

Debbie Hill from the Humane Society said: The animals are on very heavy logging chains, sometimes 30 pounds of chain attached to the animal's neck that they must wear every hour of every day, very short pieces of chain, chained in the woods, and you can see basically the path worn in the dirt, the multiple piles of feces there.

Hopefully these dogs will get another chance of life in a new home and these two that was arrested will get the book thrown at them.

Read the article by Linda Russell here.


Now after all the news report telling you about the danger of leaving your pet in a car when it’s hot out would have gotten though to everyone by now.

Well I guess this dumb girl from Wausau, Wisconsin wasn’t at class that day because she left her dog in her car for nearly four hours. Yes four hours which killed her dog due to the heat that brews inside a car during the summer season. Now she is in jail and being charged with mistreating an animal resulting in death.

When will people learn about the dangers of leaving your pet in the car and even leaving kids in the car is bad too.

Read the article here.


When I read this article it made me wonder how this person named Mallory Partow from Troy, NY was even allowed to own any dogs in the first place.

You would think that a person who has ninety two charges of animal cruelty already on the books and now she is facing two more counts of animal cruelty for abandoning two dogs with no food or water after being evicted.

I’m sorry to say, but people like this needs to be feed to the dogs for what they do to these animals. So upsetting to read articles like this, seeing that she is only having bail set at five hundred dollars doesn’t say much for the laws in that area. Hopefully the Judge sees it different and throws her butt in jail for a long time.

Read the article Michelle Kim here.

Tuesday, July 6, 2010

One Step Closer To Protecting Dogs From Ticks

Landmark CVBD Prevention Field Study Demonstrates Benefits of Advantix(R) Spot-on Treatment for Dogs

The findings of a landmark Canine Vector Borne Disease (CVBD) prevention field study, published in Veterinary Parasitology today, showed the remarkable repelling efficacy of Advantix(R) in protecting dogs from ticks and sand flies and thereby reducing the risk of transmission from the potentially deadly diseases they spread.

This highly comprehensive study, conducted over two years by the team of Prof. Domenico Otranto of the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine (Universita degli Studi di Bari) Italy, with diagnostic support from the team of Dr. Edward Breitschwerdt at the North Carolina State University, USA, found that dogs treated regularly with Advantix(R) spot-on had a greater than 90% reduction in CVBD cases, including a 100% reduction in new cases of potentially deadly leishmaniosis and a 94.6% decrease in ehrlichiosis.

The study also found that Advantix(R) provided 97.9% protection against tick infestation, compared to untreated dogs, where 100% were infested at the peak of the season. The level of protection offered by Advantix(R) was all the more notable because of the particularly large numbers of ticks and sand flies and high prevalence of associated diseases like leishmaniosis or babesiosis in the area of the study.

According to Prof. Otranto, "Our study shows the importance of protecting dogs with an effective treatment that repels as well as kills parasites like ticks and sand flies. Despite the high challenge faced by the dogs in our study, nearly all our treated dogs remained free from ticks throughout most of the study, and more than 90% remained free from CVBDs for the whole study time."

"Because we included naive sentinel beagles in the study, we were also able to model what would happen to dogs travelling to areas where CVBDs are present. We found that by the end of the study, only the Advantix(R)-treated beagles remained protected from infection, while 80% of the untreated beagles were infected with a CVBD. This demonstrates the very real need to protect dogs that are travelling to endemic areas", continued Prof. Otranto.

The study showed some interesting results with dogs that were positive with CVBDs when they entered the study. Of these, half of those treated with Advantix(R) were negative for CVBDs at the end of treatment, compared with only 13% of untreated dogs. This suggests the potential for natural clearance of CVBDs if a repellent treatment is used to prevent new transmissions.

This study was extremely comprehensive, studying both indigenous and introduced naive puppies, monitoring for several CVBDs and working with Dr. Breitschwerdt's team in the USA to use highly sensitive molecular testing techniques to ensure optimal diagnostic accuracy. According to Dr. Breitschwerdt, "This is the most comprehensive study, to my knowledge, ever conducted testing the efficacy of a repellent ectoparasiticide to prevent the transmission of a spectrum of CVBDs in young dogs."

"Thanks to this study we can see just how effective a treatment that repels as well as kills can be. With the increasing risk of CVBDs, I'd urge all pet owners to speak to their vets about finding the right tick-prevention strategy for their dog especially when travelling into endemic areas," said leading parasitology expert, Dr. Luis Cardoso of the University of Tras-os-Montes e Alto Douro, Portugal.

Sarah Weston, Global Veterinary Services of Bayer Animal Health said "It is important to realise that with globalisation, climate change and the increase in pet travel, many more pets now need to be protected from these diseases that can be potentially fatal for both pets and humans. This study demonstrates that using Advantix(R) is an effective way to protect pets from bites of ticks and sand flies, reducing the risk of CVBD transmission.

Bayer Animal Health has been researching in the field of parastitology over the last 100 years. The company is committed to advancing the scientific understanding of parasitology by supporting the annual CVBD World Forum and an online guide that is educating pet owners around the world on the dangers posed by parasites http://www.youtube.com/user/parasitesundercover1.

For more information on canine vector-borne diseases and the CVBD World Forum, please visit http://www.CVBD.org.

To view the full MMR release, including video interviews with the study investigator and leading veterinary experts, please click here (http://bit.ly/CVBDprevention )

About the study

The study was conducted over two parasite seasons, and ran from March 2008 to October 2009. It looked at two types of dog, puppies indigenous to the area and naive sentinel beagle puppies.

A total of 111 indigenous dogs were enrolled alongside 20 naive sentinel beagles. The dogs were randomly assigned in equal numbers to either a treated group receiving Advantix(R) at 3-weekly intervals for the course of the study or a control group receiving no treatment.

Please see the video 'Prof Otranto - Study design' for more information from Prof. Otranto on the study design.

The backgrounder also includes additional information on the study and the original study paper is available via the full MMR release.

About Bayer HealthCare

Bayer HealthCare, a subsidiary of Bayer AG, is one of the world's leading, innovative companies in the healthcare and medical products industry and is based in Leverkusen, Germany. The company combines the global activities of the Animal Health, Bayer Schering Pharma, Consumer Care and Medical Care divisions. Bayer HealthCare's aim is to discover and manufacture products that will improve human and animal health worldwide. Find more information at http://www.bayerhealthcare.com.

With a turnover of EUR977 million (2009) Bayer HealthCare's Animal Health Division is one of the world's leading manufacturers of veterinary drugs. The division manufactures and markets more than 100 different veterinary drugs and care products for livestock and companion animals.

Forward-Looking Statements

This news release contains forward-looking statements based on current assumptions and forecasts made by Bayer Group management. Various known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors could lead to material differences between the actual future results, financial situation, development or performance of the company and the estimates given here. These factors include those discussed in our annual and interim reports to the Frankfurt Stock Exchange and in our reports filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (including our Form 20-F). The company assumes no liability whatsoever to update these forward-looking statements or to confirm them to future events or developments.

http://www.news.bayer.com

Has Pennsylvania's Dog Breeding Law Been Thrown In The Garbage

MLAR: Rendell Refuses to Enforce His Own New Dog Laws. Millions of Dogs in PA to Remain Trapped Inside Cages in Hot Barns, Forced to Stand on Painful Wire Flooring


Shock soon turned to anger as animal advocates attending last week's Dog Law Advisory Board meeting were told by Governor Rendell's Special Secretary Jessie Smith and Bureau of Dog Law Enforcement's Sue West that important elements of Pennsylvania's hard fought new dog law would not be enforced. Almost two years ago, Governor Rendell, at the urging of the General Assembly and citizens throughout the Commonwealth, signed a law that would require among other things that breeding dogs in commercial kennels have unfettered access to the outside (indoor/outdoor kennel runs), and that all dogs over the age of twelve weeks not be housed on wire flooring (solid or slatted floors only). Historically, dogs in Pennsylvania's puppy mills have been forced to spend their lives standing on painful wire strand flooring in too-small cages often without any access to the outside. Governor Rendell's new law was meant to improve conditions for millions of dogs in PA's commercial kennels in the years to come. Instead Smith and West have decided to ignore the Governor's wishes and the new law, by creating a policy that would allow pregnant and nursing mothers to be forced to stand on the now-outlawed wire strand flooring up to six months of the year and deny these poor animals unfettered access to an outside exercise area.

Members of Pennsylvania's animal welfare community are asking for Jessie Smith and Sue West's immediate removal and see their new policy as just one more attempt by the Bureau to protect the commercial breeders rather than the dogs of Pennsylvania. In October of 2009, as the new dog law went into effect, Smith and West issued waivers to 81 of the 111 commercial kennels, exempting over two thirds of PA's commercial kennels from Pennsylvania's new dog laws. Some of these waivers were for up to three years. "The Governor should be outraged by what his staff is doing. If the Governor does want to help the dogs of Pennsylvania, he would demand that his Special Secretary and his Director of Dog Law enforce his new law rather than searching for loopholes to help the breeders keep their dogs on wire flooring" said Bill Smith, founder of Main Line Animal Rescue and an ASPCA Lifetime Achievement Award Winner. The ASPCA permitted HSUS' Sarah Speed to express their opposition to the Bureau's new policy at last week's DLAB meeting. The Humane Society of the United States, United Against Puppy Mills, North Penn Puppy Mill Watch, Animal Law Coalition, Main Line Animal Rescue, and Cumberland Valley Animal Shelter's Nancy Gardner have all expressed their opposition to the Bureau's new policy of allowing kennel owners to circumvent the new law.

"Everyone who worked so hard to pass these new laws in an effort to improve conditions in PA's mass dog breeding facilities should know all their hard work was for nothing - now that the administration plans not to enforce them" said one angry volunteer who helps rehabilitates rescued puppy mill dogs in Lancaster County. "And after all the Governor's promises, dogs continue to suffer - breeding dogs trapped inside barns in 101 degree temperatures." In spite of Jessie Smith and Sue West's announcement last week that dogs could remain on wire, the two administrators listed breeding dogs removed from wire flooring as one of the Bureau's accomplishments in their 2009 report to PA's General Assembly. Only last month, PA's Canine Health Board, consisting of nine veterinarians, also voted against the use of wire flooring in commercial kennels. "I feel like I live in North Korea" said one advocate for the animals. "The government can do as they like - and in this case, not only are they not enforcing the law, they're encouraging people to break it."

The requirements for solid flooring and unfettered access to the outside exercise area are two of the more important aspects of the new law, and many believe anyone who feels that it is alright to keep dogs trapped inside hot barns and standing on wire flooring has never been to a puppy mill and is hardly qualified to comment or shape new policies. "The governor once said that he knows how bad these kennels are - he didn't need to see them" said Bill Smith "Well, I think its time the governor visit a few of these places, see 700 dogs unable to walk properly after spending their lives on vinyl coated chicken wire. How can the administration claim that Pennsylvania now has the toughest dog laws in the country if the governor is not insisting they be enforced?" Animal advocates are planning a rally to protest the Bureau's ongoing policy of continuing to allow PA's puppy mill dogs to suffer - either in Harrisburg or Philadelphia's City Hall near the governor's Broad Street offices.

Main Line Animal Rescue 610-933-0606

Monday, July 5, 2010

Who’s Poisoning The Dogs In Houston, TX?



After watching the video you kind of wonder if there is some sick person going around trying to poison the dogs for some strange reason. Luckily Charlotte Liberda was smart enough to bring her dogs to a vet or her beautiful dogs would have been dead.

I hope all the dog owners in that area are on the watch for any cheese balls that might be laced with strychnine.

Read the article by Andy Cerota here.

This Years 2010 Guiding Eyes Golf Classic With Eli Manning Raises Nearly $500,000

33rd Annual Guiding Eyes for the Blind Golf Classic with NY Giants Quarterback Eli Manning Raises Nearly $500,000

Guiding Eyes for the Blind, the internationally accredited nonprofit guide dog school, recently welcomed the return of NY Giants Quarterback Eli Manning for his fourth year as host of the 33rd Annual Guiding Eyes Golf Classic. 252 golfers teed off, raising close to $500,000 for the organization. The sold-out event was held June 14, 2010 at the Mount Kisco Country Club in Mount Kisco, NY and the Whippoorwill Club in Armonk, NY.

Guiding Eyes for the Blind, the internationally accredited nonprofit guide dog school, recently welcomed the return of NY Giants Quarterback Eli Manning for his fourth year as host of the 33rd Annual Guiding Eyes Golf Classic. 252 golfers teed off, raising close to $500,000 for the organization. The sold-out event was held June 14, 2010 at the Mount Kisco Country Club in Mount Kisco, NY and the Whippoorwill Club in Armonk, NY.

Founded in 1977 with the help of PGA legend Ken Venturi, the Golf Classic has raised over $10 million for the organization since its inception. As part of the Classic, Guiding Eyes also presented the Corcoran Cup, the “Masters” of blind golf, on Sunday, June 13. Thirteen top U.S. Blind Golfers Association (USBGA) players from around the country vied for the coveted award. This year, Patrick Browne, Jr. (of New Orleans, LA) was named Corcoran Cup champion for the twenty-first time. David Meador (of Nashville, TN) took home the Cribari Trophy for his second place finish.

Sheila Drummond (of Lehighton, PA) was awarded the Joe Spoonster Trophy for most improved from the previous year. The 2010 Ken Venturi Coach of the Year Award went to Keith Drummond, who coaches his wife – blind golfer Sheila Drummond. William McMahon (of Framingham, MA), won the McFarland Trophy, which is given to the competitor who exceeds his or her point target by the most points.

Eli Manning was introduced to Guiding Eyes’ Golf Classic through family friend and current tournament champion Patrick Browne, Jr. Pat taught Eli and his son, Patrick III, how to golf as boys. The elder Browne, coach by this year by Patrick III, reunited with Eli at the recent tournament. This time, the father and son team showed the star quarterback how to golf blind.

“This was my fourth year hosting Guiding Eyes for the Blind’s Golf Classic and it’s very special to me. I look forward to it every year,” says Manning. “We’ve had fun and we’ve done a lot of great work. It’s definitely been rewarding. To see some of the people who’ve gotten use out of Guiding Eyes’ guide dogs and how it has changed their lives is unbelievable.”

The 2010 Guiding Eyes Golf Classic gained major support from 21 individual and corporate sponsors including:

Diamond Sponsors: Entergy & Gatorade
Presenting Sponsor: The Journal News & LoHud.com
Platinum Sponsors: The Canine Fence Company, Hudson Valley Mechanical Contractors Association, and Southeastern Farms / Kinloch Insurance Services
Gold Sponsors: A. DeVito & Son, Inc., Empire Blue Cross Blue Shield, and JP Morgan Chase
Silver Sponsors: Aero Hardware, Avant Business Services, Citibank, Stanley Cohen, Emblem, Paul Holland, Ken Nilsen, Rolex, Skanska USA Civil Inc., The Stewart Family, TBS Shipping, and Wilson & Son Jewelers

Guiding Eyes for the Blind is located at 611 Granite Springs Road in Yorktown Heights, NY. They can be reached at 914.245.4024 or by visiting www.guidingeyes.org.

About Guiding Eyes for the Blind
Guiding Eyes for the Blind (www.guidingeyes.org), an internationally accredited nonprofit guide dog school, was founded in 1954 to enrich the lives of blind and visually impaired men and women by providing them with the freedom to travel safely, thereby assuring greater independence, dignity and expanded horizons of opportunity. Since that time, Guiding Eyes has become one of the foremost guide dog schools in the world, graduating more than 7,000 guide dog teams. It provides superbly bred Guiding Eyes dogs, professional training and follow-up support services to students at no cost to them and depends on contributions to fulfill its mission. The comprehensive cost of breeding, raising, preparing, training, and supporting a Guiding Eyes team is $45,000. Guiding Eyes for the Blind's Headquarters and Training Center is located in Yorktown Heights, NY and the Canine Development Center is in Patterson, NY.

Sunday, July 4, 2010

Meet Scuba Dooby Doo



Photo by Caters News


This little Dachshund named Boniface has done the ultimate adventure by going scuba diving with the renown Russian diver Sergei Gorbunov. This is just amazing to see a dog get the chance to scuba dive and see what most people don’t ever get a chance to do.

Read the article by Sara Nelson here.

Saturday, July 3, 2010

Indonesian City Hit With Rabies Outbreak

An Indonesian city called Bali has had a breakout of rabies from all the dogs that are running around though out their city with sixty five people dieing within the last two years.

Can you only imagine that there are three hundred people being bit a day in their city. With their Hindu beliefs that the dogs are sacred their are about five hundred thousand dogs running around living off the streets.

I can see why their are so many people being bitten by these dogs. Hopefully the Bali Animal Welfare Association can keep up the demand and vaccinate all the dogs before more people die from the rabies outbreak.

Read the article by Roger Maynard here.

Friday, July 2, 2010

United Pet Group Expands Recall of Nutritional Supplements For Dogs

United Pet Group, Cincinnati, Ohio is voluntarily expanding its recent recall of its Pro-Pet Adult Daily Vitamin Supplement tablets for Dogs to include additional pet nutritional supplement products for dogs and cats due to possible Salmonella contamination. The list of recalled products is provided below. The Food and Drug Administration is aware of this recall.

The recalled products are sold nationally at various retailers. The products include various United Pet Group Pro-Pet and Excel branded products for dogs and cats, and certain other private label brands of the same products. All of the affected products are in tablet and powdered form. These products are being removed from retail stores and consumers should immediately stop feeding these supplements to their pets. The affected products are those with expiration dates that include and are between "01/2013" and "06/2013." Products with expiration dates earlier than 01/2013 or later than 06/2013 are not included in this recall. The expiration date can be found imprinted vertically on the right side of the product label.

Laboratory testing has revealed that some lots of some of these products may be contaminated with Salmonella. The company is recalling the additional products out of an abundance of caution.

Pets with Salmonella infections may be lethargic and have diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, fever, and vomiting. Some pets will have only decreased appetite, fever and abdominal pain. Infected but otherwise healthy pets can be carriers and infect other animals or humans. If your pet has consumed the recalled product and has these symptoms, please contact your veterinarian.

People who handle these products can become infected with Salmonella, especially if they have not thoroughly washed their hands after having contact with them or any surfaces exposed to these products. Healthy people infected with Salmonella should monitor themselves for some or all of the following symptoms: nausea, vomiting, diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, abdominal cramping and fever. Rarely, Salmonella can result in more serious ailments, including arterial infections, endocarditis, arthritis, muscle pain, eye irritation, and urinary tract symptoms. Consumers exhibiting these signs after having contact with the product should contact their healthcare providers.

Consumers who have purchased the affected products are urged to contact United Pet Group or the place of purchase for further direction. Consumers may contact United Pet Group at 1-877-399-5226, Monday through Friday, from 8:30 am to 5:00 pm EST.

See The Recalled List Here

Thursday, July 1, 2010

OK Cat Lovers, There's Another Cat Food Recall


Feline’s Pride is announcing a voluntary recall of Feline’s Pride Raw food with ground bone for cats and kittens, Natural Chicken Formula, Net Wt. 2.5 lbs. (1.13 kg., 40 oz.) produced on 6/10/10, because it may be contaminated with Salmonella. People handling raw pet food can become infected with Salmonella, especially if they have not thoroughly washed their hands after having contact with the raw pet food or any surfaces exposed to the product.

When consumed by humans, Salmonella can cause an infection, salmonellosis. The symptoms of salmonellosis include nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramps, minimal diarrhea, fever, and headache. Certain vulnerable populations, such as children, the elderly, and individuals with compromised immune systems, are particularly susceptible to acquiring salmonellosis from such pet food products and may experience more severe symptoms.

Pets with Salmonella infections may be lethargic and have diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, fever, and vomiting. Some pets will have only decreased appetite, fever and abdominal pain. Infected but otherwise healthy pets can be carriers and infect other animals or humans. If your pet has consumed the recalled product and has these symptoms, please contact your veterinarian.

The product is packaged in uncoded plastic containers and sold frozen to private consumers nationwide. Once thawed, the pet food has a shelf life of about 1 week. The firm manufactures the pet food by an as-ordered basis. This recall affects only those orders placed and shipped from June 10 through June 17, 2010.

The firm and FDA are investigating this matter to determine the source of this problem, and will take any additional steps necessary to protect the public health.

To date, both the firm and the FDA have received no reports of Salmonella infection relating to this product.

This product should not be fed to pets but should instead be disposed of in a safe manner (e.g., in a securely covered trash receptacle). People who are experiencing the symptoms of Salmonella infection after having handled the pet food product should seek medical attention, and report their use of the product and illness to the nearest FDA office.

People should thoroughly wash their hands after handling the pet food – especially those made from raw animal protein such as meat or fish -- to help prevent infection. People may risk bacterial infection not only by handling pet foods, but by contact with pets or surfaces exposed to these foods, so it is important that they thoroughly wash their hands with hot water and soap.

Since certain vulnerable populations, such as children, the elderly, and individuals with compromised immune systems, are particularly at risk from exposure they should avoid handling this product.

Consumers with questions should contact the company at (716) 580-3096, Monday –Friday from 10 am - 4 pm EDT.