Tuesday, December 29, 2009

"The Peeing Post"

Here is an excellent online email newsletter
http://www.thepeeingpost.com/

"The Peeing Post"
Newsletter for dog lovers who respect the dog's nature
Chief Editor: Mogens Eliasen
Communication with your dog

Sunday, December 27, 2009

COLD NOSES AT THE PEARLY GATES

 - A book about pets, pet loss and animal afterlife
www.coldnosesbook.com
We offer encouragement to those who have lost pets and addresses the question of animal afterlife. Here you'll find articles and resources for animal lovers as well as excerpts and online ordering for Cold Noses at the Pearly Gates a must read book for anyone who keeps and loves animals

Just One Dog!

Click on link http://www.blip.tv/file/3014054 to read Stanley's Christmas miracle. An inspiring story to show that it only takes every person to do one thing, and all of us together can make a difference.

Saturday, December 26, 2009

DB


And here's my DB ....

Banshee


Wanted to post this picture of Banshee

Martha´s Christmas Miracle

Wanted to share this one, too (author unknown)

Martha´s Christmas Miracle

Martha was sitting in her living room watching television this
Christmas Eve, alone as she had been for the last five years. All of
her children had married and moved to the four corners of the nation, her youngest, a surgery resident at the Vet School across the state had planned on coming home, but had been assigned to work the emergency clinic and couldn't find a replacement. Martha told herself  that having Sally working to help the sick and injured animals this  Christmas Eve was worth being alone, besides, Sally would be driving  over for Christmas dinner the next afternoon.

All the animals had been fed and now were safely in either the kennel  building or lazily laying around the house. Martha had to stop to  think how many dogs she had at her house this Christmas, she sighed  when she realized there were 16. She did rescue and the number of dogs  was always changing with some dogs being adopted, and new abandoned  dogs coming in. Feeling overwhelmed by the number of dogs she had and all the dogs still left in shelters to die because there was no room for them in rescue, Martha seriously wondered if she should stop working rescue. If she didn't have all these dogs, she could have flown to any of her other children's homes for the holidays to be with family.  Besides, the heartbreak of seeing each dog in such need was beginning to really weigh on her.

Tonight she had a new dog, brought home that day. Martha didn't really plan on adding another dog but on her way home from the store she saw a dog lying on the side of the road. Certain the dog was dead, Martha stopped, to pick up the body and take it home for a burial. As she got closer, she recognized the shell of an Alaskan Malamute, the breed she rescued. Covered by cuts and festering wounds, what fur was left was matted and filthy, it was so skinny that laying there you could see each rib and it's hipbones were the
widest part of his body.

With tears in her eyes, mourning for what once had been a majestic
animal now reduced to almost a skeleton she reached down to give the poor dog one last pat on the head. "Oh, you poor boy, what a way to end your life. Well, at least I can name you and give you a decent farewell." As her tears fell on the dog's head, one eye slowly opened and the tail gave a single wag.

"You're alive! Everything will be OK now, I'll take you home and you will have a soft bed and food tonight." She said, tears streaming down her face, this time from happiness.

The rest of the afternoon was spent cleaning the dog's wounds and
making sure he was able to eat and drink water. Martha set up the
large run in the kennel building for him. A soft blanket and a thick
foam pad was to be his bed, fresh water and food beside him. Papers for his 'necessary functions' were placed at the far end of the run. He lay there watching every move she made.

Martha left the dog resting on his bed, somewhat surprised at the
reaction of the rest of the dogs in the kennel. Pandemonium usually
broke out with all the other dogs wooing and barking when a new dog was brought in, tonight all the other dogs just stood and silently
watched as Martha cared for the new dog. Thankful the other dogs were not disturbing the new boy, Martha went to the house to finish
preparations for tomorrow's dinner.

Later that evening Martha went down to the kennel to check on the new boy and feed the other dogs. As she walked in the door the new boy shakily stood to greet her. As she was straightening up the kennel after feeding and exercising the dogs, she saw her microchip reader.
"Well, this will be a waste of time" she thought as she ran the reader
over the dog's body.

BEEP! The reader had located a chip! Writing the number down, she hurried to the house to call the chip registry and report the found dog. As she suspected on Christmas Eve, all she got was a machine.

Very late that night, the phone rang. Martha answered and a strange
voice was on the other end. "Did you find a dog with a microchip?"
"Yes, are you the registry needing more information? " Martha asked. "No, the registry called us and told us you found our dog!" and then the man broke down crying. After composing himself, he continued.

"The dog you found is BISS AM/CAN/INT CH Wasilla's Ice Sculpture, WPD, WTD, WLD, TT, CGC but to us he is our heart, the love of our life, Icy. Three years ago Icy was stolen from his exercise area in our back yard. We did everything we could think of to find him, but lately we had almost given up hope of ever seeing him again. This is a miracle. We are leaving now to come pick him up. We are about 14 hours from you so we will see you and Icy in the morning."

Martha was crying, indeed it was a miracle! And the new dog now had a name, his own name and his people were coming for him. What a wonderful Christmas gift.

Martha hurried down to the kennel to let Icy know that his humans had been found and they were on their way to take him home.  As Martha walked up to Icy's kennel he stood to greet her, "Icy, yes, I know your name and I have spoken to your people.  They´re coming to take you home."  As she was talking to Icy, she heard the old clock in the building strike midnight.

Much to her amazement, Icy said "Thank you."

Martha thought, now I am sure I have been around dogs too long, I
could swear I heard Icy speak.

Icy continued "Martha, yes I am talking to you in human language, you see, at the stroke of midnight on Christmas Day, all animals can
speak. Let me tell you what happened to me today."

"I have been kept in a dark barn for a long time by some very mean
people who beat me and often forgot to feed me. Two days ago I found a loose board on the barn and was able to escape. I walked as fast as I could, looking for my people, or at least for some kind person to feed me and give me a warm place to sleep before I died. I was in the middle of a big field when I couldn't walk or even crawl any more, I laid down, knowing I was about to cross to the Rainbow Bridge. As I stepped onto the Bridge, an Angel came towards me."

"Icy," the Angel said "If you agree, He has a job for you before cross the Bridge. There is a very kind human who needs you today to restore her sprit."

"Of course I agreed to help a human -- that is what Malamutes do. The Angel picked up my body and carried it to the side of a road and laid it down. The next thing I remember is you were scratching my ear and talking to me and your tears were falling on my face. You have cared for me this day."

Martha heard a chorus of voices all about her. To her amazement she was surrounded not only by her dogs, but dogs she had rescued and sent on to forever homes, all voicing stories how Martha had cared for them and restored them to health and loved them, thanking her for her love.

The first Malamute Martha had rescued many years ago stepped to the front of the gathering and said, "Martha, you took us in to your home, cared for us, healed us both in body and spirit then, even though it broke your heart, sent us on to our new forever families. This gave us a life we would never have had without you. Others of us here, never were adopted and lived out our lives with you, loved and cared for as if we were your own dogs. In our hearts we are your dogs. Thank you."

Then one small mixed breed puppy stepped forward from the back and said, "Miss Martha, you never held me nor fed me, you see I am speaking for all the shelter dogs and cats gathered here for which you did all you could. We understand that you can't save us all, but you read our shelter stories, knowing we would cross the Bridge without knowing a home of our own, and you cried for us. We thank you for that. You see, we knew you cared and loved us, too. And that love helped us as we crossed. We thank you and all the other Rescuers for that small act of love."

Icy looked at Martha and told her, "It is getting late and you will
have many people here tomorrow to celebrate Christmas. And you have your rescue work to continue. Our time to be able to talk to you is growing short, but always remember what happened tonight. What you do for the animals is a gift to us and to Him, the Father of us all. Each of us, animals of every species, needs people like you. Please keep on helping. You are doing the work of Angels."

At that point all of the dogs in unison said "Thank You," and their
voices blended into a joyous howl which echoed from the heavens to the  ends of the earth.

Humbly offered as a Christmas Gift to all who love animals.

Christmas 2007

Dogs' letters to God

Just had to share this ... author unknown

Dear God,
How come people love to smell flowers, but seldom, if ever, smell one another? Where are their priorities?

Dear God,
When we get to Heaven, can we sit on your couch? Or is it the same old story?

Dear God,
Excuse me, but why are there cars named after the jaguar, the cougar, the mustang, the colt, the stingray, and the rabbit, but not one named for a dog? How often do you see a cougar riding around? We dogs love a nice ride! I know every breed cannot have its own model, but it would be easy to rename the Chrysler Eagle the Chrysler Beagle!

Dear God,
If a dog barks his head off in the forest and no human hears him, is he still a bad dog?

Dear God,
Is it true that in Heaven, dining room tables have on-ramps?

Dear God,
If we come back as humans, is that good, or bad?

Dear God,
More meatballs, less spaghetti, please.

Dear God,
When we get to the Pearly Gates, do we have to shake hands to get in?

Dear God,
We dogs can understand human verbal instructions, hand signals, whistles, horns, clickers, beepers, scent IDs, electromagnetic energy fields, and Frisbee flight paths. What do humans understand?

Dear God,
Are there dogs on other planets or are we alone? I have been howling at the moon and stars for a long time, but all I ever hear back is the beagle across the street!

Dear God,
Are there mailmen in Heaven? If there are, will I have to apologize?

Dear God,
Is it true that dogs are not allowed in restaurants because we can't make up our minds what NOT to order? Or is it the carpets thing, again?

Dear God,
May I have my testicles back?

Banshee goes to Harbor Chase (Dec.22)

Pet therapy day at Harbor Chase (2d visit there); Banshee is excellent spirits today. Had 6 dogs, a good turnout! Banshee had her new Christmas 'necklace' on,  Maggie had on a Santa suit and Savannah had bells on her collar .... this is a really nice assisted living facility, very friendly residents, also an Alzheimer's wing. After pet therapy we went to Pet Smart (unfortunately I forgot to buy dog food and had to go back saturday) and Super Petz (Banshee's favorite store, as they give out liver treats (Pet Smart gives milkbones).

Saturday, December 12, 2009

Ginger subs for Banshee at pet therapy Dec.1


When I returned from Saluda to pick up Banshee and go to pet therapy, Banshee, Snoopy and DB got into an altercation over space issues (who's first when i get out of the car.) Because  Banshee was still wrought up, decided to take Ginger to pet therapy at Azalea Woods and Croft House.... she did very well. Very loving, licked Mr. Frank and several other residents in the face, didn't paw anyone (this is my main concern with using Ginger to visit the elderly, she still hasn't completely gotten over her habit of pawing at you to get your attention, and it is too easy to break the skin on the elderly....) Other than that, she does well. For some reason, she doesnt paw at children, just stands there and lets them love on her (and licks them and smells them:-)  so I generally take her to childen events. Afterwards, we went to Croft House ... because we were late, only 1 resident had waited outside for us. Afterwards, went to SuperPetz (where Ginger was a big hit with a yippy little yorkie (whose owner said he usually hated other dogs) and then to the chiropractor (where I had to wait awhile, so walked Ginger in the big fenced yard behind the building ... full of squirrels!) Returned home satisfied with a 'job well done'

Friday, November 27, 2009

Snoopy's One Year Anniversary

It was one year ago (Thanksgiving 2008) that I brought Snoopy home from the Aiken SPCA to join my family .... Snoopy had been at the Aiken SPCA since January 08, I started walking her in April 08. No one else would walk her, she was terrified of a collar, so I got a step in harness. She was terrified of everyone, snapped and cowered, but I worked with her for months ... on my lunch hour twice a week ... and she started coming around ... reading a post I made back in the summer 08 I said 'she was scared to come out of her crate. She has issues with her neck,cant stand a collar, was terrified and wouldnt even walk on leash (just lay there and whined) or let anyone touch her . I have worked
with her 2 days a week on my lunch hour ever since, she now will allow you to pet her, I bought a stepin harness and she will walk nicely on leash, has a good recall, I taught her sit, down, am working on stay. She loves to play fetch and SWIM (in the wading pool). She has come SO far, with the minimal work I've done with her. This is a VERY smart
girl, and very sweet and affectionate if you treat her with respect and kindness. She is still terrified of a crate, and riding in a car, and I'm unable to get her to adoption events successfully.'   I posted her story, tried very hard to find her a home, to no avail ... she was losing weight and I decided to bring her home. She has done beautifully ... she rides in the car with delight, plays with the other dogs, is crate trained (and loves it), is generally a wonderful addition to the pack. I wish I could bring home ALL the Snoopys, but, 4 is enough...


Here's a recent picture of Snoopy

Thursday, November 26, 2009

Happy Thanksgiving!

I am thankful for my health, my husband, my four wonderful dogs, my cat, my job, my friends, and the 'mission' given to me by St. Francis when he sent DB and Banshee to me (abandoned under my toolshed in July 2006) which has led me to a wonderful new world of animal rescue and the kind caring people who are 'dog people'.

"Our lives begin to end the day we become silent about things that matter " - Martin Luther King, Jr.

Some things that matter ... Noah's Ark Rescue, which provides medical care and treatment for abused and injured animals. All God's Creatures, a wonderful small rescue in Johnston SC. Aiken SPCA, an excellent 'no kill' shelter in Aiken which has allowed me to volunteer in pet therapy to local nursing homes and walking the shelter dogs. The Grey Muzzle Organization, which I joined as an ambassador, to spread the word about helping senior dogs.... and so many more.

Thank you, Lord, for giving me these opportunities! May I be worthy of your faith in me.

Wednesday, November 25, 2009

Pet therapy at Harbor Chase Tues 24th

I took Banshee with me to CSN meeting (She stayed in car during meeting) then to new pet therapy venue at Harbor Chase (former Eden Gardens). 5 dogs today! Went very well, we had a 'guide' who took us to residents' rooms (the assisted living wings) and then to the Alzheimers Wing... watching a 'light' come on in these residents' eyes when they touch a dog is, well, awe inspiring. Banshee does so well on these outings, I am so proud of her. Afterwards we went to PetSmart to buy food, met a nice young woman and her goldendoodle pup, (Banshee kept rolling her eyes at me 'gee, mom, this pup is a BIT much' ) then did errands and finally went home. Banshee is a great 'passenger', she curls up and sleeps, wakes up when we stop but politely waits to be invited to 'disembark'.

Friday, November 20, 2009

Thursday, November 19, 2009

Pet Soup projects in GA and SC

As the economy worsens, many pets are being surrendered to shelters because the owner can no longer afford to feed them ... there is a growing movement to provide pet food so low income folks, particularly the elderly, can keep their pets in their homes ....Here's a pet food distribution project in Columbia SC, distribution day is Friday, they need volunteers! Pet Soup

Here's another in rural Georgia Daffy's Pet Soup Kitchen

If you know low income folks who could benefit from this, refer them ... if you have time to volunteer, volunteer .... if you have a few extra bucks, donate ... if you're really ambitious, start a local Pet Soup project!

Remember, there but for the grace of God go I ....

Here's a link to a nationwide database, by state of organizations that offer pet food assistance
Pet Assistance Network

Monday, November 16, 2009

Quotes ....

"The bottom line is that as long as people believe that killing homeless pets is one of those “necessary evils” that can never be stopped, then it will never be stopped.~ Michael Mountain

" The time will come when men such as I will look upon the murder of animals as now they look upon the murder of men. " - Leonardo Da vinci

"The greatness of a nation and its moral progress can be judged by the way its animals are treated." - Mahatma Gandhi

Tuesday, November 3, 2009

Pet therapy day for Banshee

Today was Banshee's day for pet therapy at a nursing home. Small turnout (only 3 other dogs), she enjoyed herself as usual (particularly the nurse who gives out treats and the resident who gives awesome back scratches)... unfortunately, the senior residence we usually visit next had cancelled. And it was such a gorgeous day, maybe some of the residents who don;t normally venture outside would have come out. Oh, well. I've thought of a new answer to give folks who ask 'what kind of dog is she?' ... a racoon mix:-)

Friday, October 30, 2009

Poochapalooza Nov.7

Ah, here's a nearby event! And if you don't HAVE a dog, you can rent one! (What a cool idea) I'm up for it, now, if my 'dog van' will just make it to Columbia ....


PAALS (Palmetto Animal Assisted Life Services) and the Heartworm Project are once again teaming up for the third annual dog walk & reunion. This event will held Saturday, November 7, 2009 from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at Saluda Shoals Park in Columbia, SC.This year the dog walk has expanded; and the decision was made that a big name was needed to match the big fun!! POOCHAPALOOZA was the perfect fit! The day consists of a one mile dog walk styled poker run with the chance to win fabulous prizes; where a dog and his human walk a preset course stopping at each of the five sponsor checkpoints to receive a playing card. The best poker paw wins! There will also be an auction & dog show starring your pooch with lunch and goodie bag included. Families are welcome, and if you prefer not to bring your own pooch, you can Rent-a-Rescue Rover at the park for a nominal donation! The goal of PAALS and The Heartworm Project for hosting these events is to educate and enlighten the community on both a local and state level about their missions, goals and the unique services provided; as well as communicate the variety needs these nonprofits face and can fulfill. The various costs incurred to raise, train, house, transport and lend service dogs for adults and children with physical disabilities and special needs are as vast as are the costs of saving strays that have treatable medical conditions from being euthanized. “We’re so excited and grateful to be partnering this year with another worthy cause, The Heartworm Project. Both of our groups provide invaluable services in our community and are able to join forces with the help of our sponsors and our volunteers. The word really needs to get out about the differences our loving service dogs have made in the lives of the disabled, as well as the number of pets that have been saved by The Heartworm Project,” said Jen Rogers, Founder and Executive Director of PAALS.

Saturday, November 7 | 11am - 3pm | Saluda Shoals Park 5605 Bush River Road, 1.5 miles from Lake Murray Dam  

 

No Westmuttster this year :-(

In case you hadn't heard ... (and I hadn't. til I went by the SPCA
today and then saw it on Facebook...) No Westmuttster this year.
Bummer. DB,Banshee,Snoopy,Ginger and I were looking forward to it! And it's such great PR for the SPCA. Oh,well.
From the Aiken Standard .
SPCA nixes 2009 Westmuttster show

And no Halloween carnival at Odell Weeks, either .....

There is a Halloween costume contest on Newberry st tomorrow at 530 PM (sponsored by PetSmart I think), but I dont dress my girls up in costumes (a bow or bandana, perhaps, but that's it). I just like to give them the chance to socialize with other dogs (and people) .... and we sure are lacking in events around here. Well, maybe once the Aiken dog park opens Dec.12 (and there is supposed to be a grand opening) more will start happening!







Tuesday, October 27, 2009

A Dog's Purpose? (from a 6-year-old)

Going around the Net today ....

A Dog's Purpose?   (from a 6-year-old).

Being a veterinarian, I had been called to examine a ten-year-old Irish Wolfhound named Belker. The dog's owners, Ron, his wife Lisa, and their little boy Shane, were all very attached to Belker, and they were hoping for a miracle.

I examined Belker and found he was dying of cancer. I told the family we couldn't do anything for Belker, and offered to perform the euthanasia procedure for the old dog in their home. As we made arrangements, Ron and Lisa told me they thought it would be good for six-year-old Shane to observe the procedure. They felt as though Shane might learn something from the experience.

The next day, I felt the familiar catch in my throat as Belker 's family surrounded him. Shane seemed so calm, petting the old dog for the last time, that I wondered if he understood what was going on. Within a few minutes, Belker slipped peacefully away.

The little boy seemed to accept Belker's transition without any difficulty or confusion. We sat together for a while after Belker's Death, wondering aloud about the sad fact that animal lives are shorter than human lives.
Shane, who had been listening quietly, piped up, ''I know why.''

Startled, we all turned to him. What came out of his mouth next stunned me. I'd never heard a more comforting explanation. It has changed the way I try and live.

He said,''People are born so that they can learn how to live a good life -- like loving everybody all the time and being nice, right?''The Six-year-old continued,''Well, dogs already know how to do that, so they don't have to stay as long.''

Live simply.
Love generously.
Care deeply.
Speak kindly.

Remember, if a dog was the teacher you would learn things like:

When loved ones come home, always run to greet them.
Never pass up the opportunity to go for a joyride.
Allow the experience of fresh air and the wind in your face to be pure ecstasy.
Take naps.
Stretch before rising.
Run, romp, and play daily.
Thrive on attention and let people touch you.
Avoid biting when a simple growl will do.
On warm days, stop to lie on your back on the grass.
On hot days, drink lots of water and lie under a shady tree.
When you're happy, dance around and wag your entire body.
Delight in the simple joy of a long walk.
Be loyal.
Never pretend to be something you're not.
If what you want lies buried, dig until you find it.
When someone is having a bad day, be silent, sit close by, and nuzzle them gently.

ENJOY EVERY MOMENT OF EVERY DAY!

'Animals come into our lives as gifts from God, for companionship, to teach us, and to heal us. They deserve our very best efforts in caring for them'....Dr. Ihor Basko, DVM

Power to the Pet People!

Great news from Susan Thixton (see yesterday's blog post)....


"In less than 24 hours, four pet food companies [The Honest Kitchen Pet Food,Wysong Pet Foods,Nature’s Logic Pet Food,Mulligan Stew Pet Food] and one pet treat company [Complete Natural Nutrition] have agreed to participate in Pet Food Recall First Alert Program!


Unbelievable progress in less than one day!  My thanks go out to all of you!  Please keep sending your letters, telling your friends and family, and if you can write your newspaper and or TV stations please do.  The more news about this the better!
Wishing you and your pet(s) the best,
Susan Thixton Truth about Pet Food  Petsumer Report
SpokesPerson for Pet Food Recall First Alert

Monday, October 26, 2009

The Silent Killer of Pets

"In 2007 melamine was the killer of countless dogs and cats across the U.S. and Canada.  In 2009 there is a new killer of pets; silence..... There is a GAPING HOLE in the pet food withdrawal and recall system that everyone of authority seems to be ignoring; Notification of pet owners.... We can no longer wait for FDA reform; it might not ever happen.  Silent recalls ARE making pets sick! .... Let’s take matters into our own hands and ask (ok, perhaps demand nicely) Pet Food Companies initiate a notification system for pet food withdrawals and silent recalls! ....Please take a few minutes, copy a letter and email it to your Pet Food Company.  Click Here for the very simple instructions.Wishing you and your pet(s) the best…And, hoping you help us Stop Silent Pet Food Recalls."
Susan Thixton Truth about Pet Food Petsumer Report

Sunday, October 25, 2009

Tip: Preventing shock

Did you know ... you can prevent a dog (or person) from going into shock by firmly stroking their ears from base to tip. (Thanks to Cricket of The Pawsitive Dog for this tip!)

Saturday, October 24, 2009

Ginger and I go to the races

 Ginger (my Irish setter) and I were invited to help out at the Aiken Junior SPCA 'paddock playground' at the Aiken Steeplechase today. (This was the18th Running of the Aiken Fall Steeplechase.) It was raining this morning, but cleared up around lunchtime. Ginger was a big hit with the hordes of children who came by the booth to have their faces painted ... she was supposed to also do some 'serious' pet therapy work by having the kids read to her, which she has done before at other events ... inside. The combination of lots of kids, other dogs, horses, and the smell of food and treats, well, Ginger wasnt particularly interested in laying down quietly. (Though the kids weren't interested in reading, either:-) But oh, she does love children, from babies to teens, and is so very gentle with them, licks babies faces, nuzzles little girls necks, play bows to little boys. We walked around the track several times, and she was a perfect lady, met several folks who told me their "Irish setter stories', everyone commented on how beautiful she is (well, she is). She could have been adopted out a dozen times (I was wearing my SPCA Tshirt) ... I explained she was mine (or I am hers, actually) and told her story (Ginger is my girl who kept escaping from prior owners and ended up down the road from me at All God's Creatures old location... where she jumped the fence and made it to my front gate, where she waited til my husband came home and jumped into his truck and rode regally into her 'chosen home'.) That was a little over a year ago, and she has been a joy and a delight, a welcome addition to my little pack. We got home around 5PM, the rest of the girls were impatiently awaiting our return, and got a nice long run before dark.

Friday, October 23, 2009

Wales: Shock collars banned

"A proposed ban on electric shock dog training devices in Wales will be re-written to make it a complete ban, says the minister who wants to bring it in.Rural Affairs Minister Elin Jones said more than half the responses during consultation on the ban were in favour.The collars are used on dogs by some to give an electric shock when the dog is deemed to be behaving incorrectly.Ms Jones said she agreed with the argument that allowing exemptions to the ban would be difficult to police.Ms Jones said last year that she planned to ban the use of such collars, mats and leads because of concerns that pets were suffering."BBC News

Thursday, October 22, 2009

To the Rescue: Found Dogs with a Mission Book Signing Nov.1 Aiken


Strays to the Rescue

 A new photo book details the stories of dogs rescued from streets and shelters and how they learned to give something back. Excerpted from the book To the Rescue: Found Dogs with a Mission by Elise Lufkin, with photographs by Diana Walker.

Book Signing Nov.1,  5-7 PM,  the Wilcox Inn (100 Colleton Avenue) to benefit Aiken SPCA. Serena, a local rescue dog who is a complex rated therapy dog will also be there! (Read Serena's story at pg. 8 in the Strays to the Rescue photo essay)


 

Pet-A-Fair Sunday, October 25th

CSRA Humane Society’s Annual Pet-A-Fair Sunday, October 25th Julian Smith Casino Augusta GA.Doors open at noon. Pet contests start at 2pm.

All Proceeds Benefit our Homeless Pets!
Various pet contests include
Handsomest Male, Prettiest Female, Best Trick, Best Costume, Best Person-Pet Combination Costume, and many more.  Pet categories:  Dogs, Cats, Other (ferrets, hamsters, birds, lizards, and any other type of pet).  First place winners in all contests compete in their respective categories for BEST in SHOW.  Prizes & ribbons will be awarded.  (Small fee to enter contests; discount for entering multiple contests, discount for entering pets adopted from us.  Please provide proof of current rabies vaccinations.)FREE Admission, but donations GLADLY accepted!Silent Auction, Raffles, Bake Sale, Vendor Tables, Refreshments, Shirts, Microchip Clinic & lots more.

Wednesday, October 21, 2009

Beautiful Wednesday, Snoopy's limp

Forgot to mention, for the last week Snoopy has been limping on her right rear leg, off an on, doesnt seem to be a sandspur. Started giving her glucosamine today. Hopefully this will clear up. But it could be a luxating patella, I guess..... poor Snoopy, she's such an active dog, I cant imagine her having surgery. Which reminds me, I need to check out some pet health insurance ....

Mattie the little dog from next door came through the fence at suppertime, played and ran with my girls ... they all play beautifully, the big dogs 'hold back' so Mattie can keep up, she jumps over them and runs under them and they generally have a ball. Someday I may figure out how to work my video camera and get some pictures of the dogs at play.

Getting dark earlier now, kennel the girls around 7 PM. Just time for about an hour run when I get home, soon will be dark when I get home (sigh).

Skye, heartworm treatment

Another gorgeous day, 70's, crystal clear blue skies. Had a good run this AM, went to Aiken. Went by SPCA during lunch hour, walked Skye ... the beautiful Aussie-pointer mix with pale blue eyes I've been working with since last winter. Here is Skye's link on PetFinder. Not adopted yet, has heartworm ... and no one to foster him for the treatment. Am going to suggest they try one of the natural heartworm treatments, the dog doesnt have to be kept totally quiet, supposedly ... here are 2 I've found
----
The treatment used by the Holistic Vet Clinic is threefold:
1. The heartworm nosode is used on a declining schedule from daily to weekly over a three month period.
2. A product called Paratox (a homeopathic complex of several remedies) is
given orally or in the drinking water twice daily for 48 days.
3. Diatomaceous earth is fed in moistened food once daily for a month or
longer.

Statistics are not available as to what percentage of treated dogs test
negative after 6 months after completion of the treatment, but the percentage
seems to be over 75%.

----

HeartWorm Free™ by AmberTech alleges it can eliminate the heartworms slowly over a period of time allowing the dog's own immune system to help rid the heartworm from his or her body. Because this canine heartworm treatment works slowly your dog does not need to be confined and can continue to play as he or she normally would (not allowing over exertion such as racing or breeding). According to Amber Tech's studies, it can take 16 to 36 weeks to overcome heartworms with HeartWorm Free™ treatment.

HWF™ Organic Natural Ingredients:
GARLIC - Helps to repel parasites and has antimicrobial properties. Antioxidant, immunostimulant, lowers blood pressure, and overall tonic.
BLACK SEED - An overall tonic herb known for its effects on the respiratory system, gastrointestinal tract, kidneys, liver, circulatory, and immune system. Anti-parasitic.
LICORICE - An anti-inflammatory and expectorant, controls coughing and has hormonal and laxative effects. It is further used to prevent liver toxicity and treat tuberculosis and adreno-corticoid insufficiency. Blood cleansing, supports lung tissue, and immunostimulant.
HAWTHORN - Supports and strengthens heart structure and overall heart functions (tonic). Improves coronary circulation, relaxes and dilates arteries, improves blood circulation, lowers blood pressure, antioxidant, nutritive.
HOPS - Used as a diuretic. It is known to be relaxing to the central nervous system, eases tension and anxiety, induces sleep. Tonic for the digestive system, eases irritable bladder syndrome, good for sluggish livers, and cleanses the blood.
SORREL - Diuretic, anti-cancer, laxative. Promotes detoxification and cell regeneration. Contains anti-oxidants, including chlorophyll.
APRICOT PITS - Antitussive, antiasthmatic, demulcent. Contain small amounts of natural occurring cyanide.
GRAPEFRUIT SEED EXTRACT - Anti-microbial activity against viral, bacterial, and fungal infections. Also rids the body of microscopic parasites.
FLAVORINGS - To make the product more palatable.
ALCOHOL - Intensifies the herbs in the HWF™ tincture while acting as a natural preservative.

Tuesday, October 20, 2009

Treat an Old Dog

Treat an Old Dog

Through October 31! Pumpkin

Below are six dogs currently being helped by Grey Muzzle funding. Make a donation in honor of the dog that captures your heart.

We'll donate a comfy cozy new bed "treat" to two of these dogs:

  1. The dog with the most dollars in donations
  2. The dog with the highest number of donations.

Make even a small donation now, get your friends to help, and send your favorite oldster a restful treat for Halloween. We'll tally the results on October 31 so don't wait!

Click here for more details!

Pet therapy day

Another beautiful fall day ... went to Saluda, came back and got Banshee and went to Azalea Woods for pet therapy. Banshee really enjoys her 'job' there, the nurse with the cookies is a big hit! Usually go on 1st and 3rd Tuesdays, the group is now dropping 3rd Tuesdays and adding 2 more nursing homes, Eden Gardens on 4th Tuesdays, Carriage Hills on 3rd Wednesdays. Unfortunately, these don't 'mesh' with my work schedule:-( ... but I may add Pepper Hill on 2d Tuesdays. Banshee gets such a kick out of pet therapy work, I hate to disappoint her.

Grey Muzzle

The Grey Muzzle Organization improves the lives of at-risk senior dogs by providing funding and resources to animal shelters, rescue organizations, sanctuaries, and other non-profit groups nationwide.

We are not a shelter or rescue group. Rather, Grey Muzzle funds programs such as hospice care, senior dog adoption, medical screening, and other special programs to help old dogs at animal welfare organizations across the country. Distributed through grants, all funds are provided through our fundraising efforts and the generosity of public donations.

The Grey Muzzle Organization provides funding for senior dog programs nationwide. Below you'll find a state-by-state list of the organizations that we've approved for funding, as well as other interesting organizations in the area

How to apply for a Grey Muzzle grant
http://www.greymuzzle.org/grants.htm

Current grantees and projects
http://www.greymuzzle.org/where

Monday, October 19, 2009

First frost this morning

First frost of the year this AM ... beautiful crisp clear day. Dogs shot out of their kennels and ran and ran ... hated to have to leave and go to work. By the time I get home, it's almost dark, just time for a brief run. All are getting along well, no sign of Banshee's lump under the chin returning.

Sunday, October 18, 2009

Risk Ingredients Not Listed on Pet Food Labels

Risk Ingredients Not Listed on Pet Food Labels
http://www.truthaboutpetfood.com/articles/438/1/Risk-Ingredients-Not-Listed-on-Pet-Food-Labels/Page1.html

List of high quality pet food that contain ethoxyquin. (TOTW and all Diamond foods including Natural Balance contain it.) Wellness does not *(I emailed Wellness myself).

Love, Guilt & Putting Dogs Down

A wonderful post from Patricia McConnell's blog (The Other End of the
Leash). Be sure to read the comments!

http://www.theotherendoftheleash.com/love-guilt-putting-dogs-down/#comment-9608

Another cool find: "Salmon Fillet Treats"

"Salmon Fillet Treats" by "Grizzly Fillet Treats." These treats are 100% dehydrated salmon and may be broken up easily into small pieces. These are great for training or stuffing in a puzzle toy!

https://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_ss?url=search-alias%3Dpet-supplies&field-keywords=Salmon+Fillet+Treats&x=20&y=21

Interactive toy called the "Tornado.

From an alert friend : interactive toy called the "Tornado." This toy has three levels of compartments (for a total of 12 spots) for hiding treats. It comes with a few "bones" that restrict the movement of the toy, thus allowing you to adjust the difficulty.

Here's a link to it:

http://www.amazon.com/Nina-Ottosson-Dog-Tornado/dp/B001KZ8FWE/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&s=pet-supplies&qid=1255909845&sr=1-2

Finally, a sunny day!

This past week has been , well, pretty miserable for October, usually a gorgeous month. ... but not this year. Only one day (Tuesday) with sunshine, the rest cold,dreary,rain, sometimes hard rain, sometimes a drizzle .... the dogs put up with it better than I did. They enjoyed their runs, even in the rain and stayed remarkably cheerful (even Banshee). Little Mattie from next door came thru the fence to play Saturday, Had a nice ride in the van on Saturday. But today, ah, beautiful sunshine! After church, I mowed and ran the dogs, Snoopy jumped in the mudhole several times, handed out a new pink ball and DB and Banshee gleefully stole it and hid it from Snoopy (who ended up finding it in triumph, while Ginger stood to one side, clearly puzzled about what was going on) .... generally a great day. The other high point last week, Damcat caught a mouse in the bathroom! Hooray for the Damcat!

Saturday, October 17, 2009

More photos from the Blessing




















Blessing of the Animals 10/11/09


The Blessing of the Animals at Our Savior Episcopal (Trenton SC) was a great success this year! The yearly event is sponsored by All God's Creatures, click here for photos. Here are some photos of 'my gang' ....

the first one is me, reading Genesis 20-25 (accompanied by Banshee and DB.) "20And God said, Let the waters bring forth abundantly the moving creature that hath life, and fowl that may fly above the earth in the open firmament of heaven. 21And God created great whales, and every living creature that moveth, which the waters brought forth abundantly, after their kind, and every winged fowl after his kind: and God saw that it was good. 22And God blessed them, saying, Be fruitful, and multiply, and fill the waters in the seas, and let fowl multiply in the earth.23And the evening and the morning were the fifth day. 24And God said, Let the earth bring forth the living creature after his kind, cattle, and creeping thing, and beast of the earth after his kind: and it was so. 25And God made the beast of the earth after his kind, and cattle after their kind, and every thing that creepeth upon the earth after his kind: and God saw that it was good."

More photos in the next post!