My Cat From...

Image courtesty of animalphotos.net

Most cats surrendered to animal shelters arrive for the same reason...bad behavior. Perhaps they won't use the litter box, tatter furniture, or even scratch and bite their people. Not the kind of scenes that evoke warm and fuzzy feelings. And sadly, at most shelters, Kitty Convicts reside in abundance.

Finally, someone has come along to help undo the damage. Jackson Galaxy, a tattooed mountain of a man, looks more like a motorcycle gang member than a cat whisperer. Yet he works the same magic on felines that Cesar Millan does with troubled canines. Galaxy appears on the Animal Planet show, "My Cat From Hell." I've watched a number of episodes now, and seen hissing and snarling wild things become contented lap cats. What are his feline training secrets? Whip and chair? Haz-mat suit and tranquilizers?

No. It's really quite simple. With a strong knowledge of cat behavior, Galaxy teaches people.

Here are a few of his tactics:

1. Cats feel more powerful and less stressed when they can travel up to observe their world from a perch high above. Give them a way to climb to the top and back down again in a natural flow.
"Ahhh, I am now ruler of  my world!"

2. Cats are natural hunters. Get play toys that give them the chance to do what they're meant to do, and use them. A tired kitty is a happy kitty.

3. Provide plenty of litter boxes kept scrupulously scooped. If kitty has an accident, make sure the area is thoroughly cleaned and deodorized. No covered litterboxes, please. In addition, if you've set the environment up well (see number 1), kitty won't feel the need to mark his territory.

4. Cats must scratch something. Provide plenty of attractive scratching posts, both vertical and horizontal. Focus on putting them beside areas kitty has proven he/she likes to scratch. A little catnip incentive doesn't hurt, either. Voila! It's kitty happy hour!

5. Be sure your cat is spayed/neutered. Raging hormones create as many behavior problems in cats as they do in teenagers.

These are only a few of Galaxy's suggestions. Every time I see the show I learn something new, as he assigns his prescription "homework", then returns to check on progress. It's fascinating to watch.

I hope anyone who is experiencing troubles with their feline will tune in and see what they can do to improve the pet/guardian bond. Don't worry. Even if your cat is angelic, you'll still unearth a nugget or two of wisdom.

We bring animals into our homes and usually expect them to behave like people. Much as we may think  otherwise, critters aren't human beings. They have a different genetic makeup and different instincts. Yet it only requires a few adaptations for everyone to have a happy and fulfilling co-existence.

And that, my friends, is the key to having fewer animals languish in shelters or euthanized as unadoptable.

Amen, Mom...Amen!

Adopt a Dog

Looking for someone to cuddle with on cool Fall evenings? This handsome senior citizen is called Shadow. His expression seems to radiate a sweet confidence, as though he knows there's someone out there who wants to take him home and love him forever. 

Shadow is one of many dogs at Five Acres Animal Shelter (formerly St. Charles Humane Society) in St. Charles, Missouri looking for a permanent and happy home. Check them out. You could discover just the furry face you've been waiting to find!

Indy woofed for me to remind everyone that October is Adopt a Shelter Dog Month. What a great time to rescue a pet! If, however, you can't adopt, consider helping your local shelter in other ways. They can use volunteers, pet food, toys, and towels. And to pay all those vet bills, monetary donations are always welcome. 

 We hope you and your furry best friends are having the same beautiful weather we are.  Low humidity, warm sunny days, and comfortably cool nights.

Don't you just love Fall?

Remember

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By all reports, the Adoptathon in Joplin exceeded everyone's expectations. Hundreds of potential adoptive families jammed the streets and stood in lines waiting to visit the animals. It appears that nearly all of the available dogs and cats were adopted. You could call the event a real miracle.

The news made me happy, yet kind of sad, too.

After Hurricane Katrina, a similar frenzy to adopt displaced animals occurred. If a shelter let the public know they had Katrina animals, an abundance of people would appear, each clamoring to take one home.

But most critters don't come into shelters as a result of a monumental disaster. They arrive as strays, or after being abandoned by a family who had to move without them, or who had a child that developed allergies. Or they got too big, too old, or too sick. Although circumstances vary, each animal has a story that could break your heart as much as any highly publicized case. But they all need the same thing...a loving home.

You didn't see me on television
or read about my plight in the news
because I'm just an ordinary animal
watching with nose pressed against a kennel door
waiting for someone who'll look at my face
and somehow understand that
if you give me half a chance to show you
our future will be guaranteed.
I'll live in your heart forever,
you'll be one less person who's in need.

Belonging to a family is better than waiting in a shelter. Please don't forget the thousands of animals who still await a miracle.

A New Name for an Old One

Have I really been gone this long from Blogger-land? Last week was a mad rush of getting ready for a three day out-of-town conference. Then back home for four whole hours before re-packing and leaving to spend three more days at the river. Whew!

I've been trying to catch up both at work and at home ever since, and find that I could sure use a long weekend to recover from my long weekend!  Now that my chin is finally (barely) above water, I'm looking forward to seeing what's been happening with everyone.  I'll be visiting your blogs soon!

In the meantime, here's some local news. The St. Charles Humane Society, a group I've worked with for many years, has decided to change it's name. There were so many organizations using "St. Charles" as part of their name, and so much confusion about it, that a whole rebranding became necessary. However, the group has existed with it's original name since 1973, so it may be tough for them to get the public to understand that they aren't a brand new shelter.

In any event, henceforth, they will be known as the Five Acres Animal Shelter.  Along with the new name, they've adopted a new logo and launched a new website.  The site looks great, so if you can, stop by for a virtual visit.

Here's the new logo:

For those familiar with the group, not to worry. Five Acres Animal Shelter remains a no-kill shelter offering the same programs as before, including their pet food pantry program called Animeals, created for families in financial distress.

It's a huge undertaking to make a change like this. New stationary, new envelopes, new signs, new logo, and new web address are only the beginning. The biggest challenge of all will be getting the public to understand and embrace the "new" Five Acres Animal Shelter.

My fingers are crossed for them. They do wonderful work!

Stamping it Up

Where's my pen and stationery?

The United States Postal Service (USPS) may have a lot of problems, but there's one thing they're doing right.

On April 30, 2010, the USPS will unveil a new version of an extremely popular stamp they issued several years ago that features real shelter pets. And the message is a good one: adopt a shelter pet. This social awareness campaign has "adopted" a pretty powerful spokesperson, too. Ellen DeGeneres, one of my favorite female comics, is a strong advocate of shelter adoptions and, I suspect, will be promoting the stamps on her show and in other marketing media.

Look at those adorable faces! Kind of makes you want to write a real letter to someone, doesn't it?

For more information, or to preorder stamps check out this website.

Show Us the Money

In these days of shrinking government budgets, people are feeling the pinch. So are animals.

Two local animal control agencies are currently having serious problems. The mayor of the City of St. Louis announced yesterday that operations at the city shelter would be closed later this year. A deteriorating building and lack of funds means the agency can no longer care humanely for animals. The city plans to contract services with local nonprofit agencies for strays and surrenders.

Likewise, animal control in neighboring Jefferson County is under fire for inadequate conditions and high euthanasia rates. Though staff is trying to bring the shelter up to par, there is a real possiblity that they may face closing as well.

I believe both agencies have tried to do the best they can with very limited budgets. What is the answer? A short term solution is to use nonprofit shelters. Unfortunately, they, too, are stretched to the max.

We need a long term solution. This lies in funding for better facilities, increased adoption outreach, and a concerted effort to get pets spayed and neutered. Of course, these programs require more money.

Which puts us right back where this blog began.

Appreciate Your Shelter

Visit HSUS for details

November 1-7 is National Animal Shelter Appreciation Week, sponsored by the Humane Society of the United States (HSUS). Recognize your local shelter by donating food, towels, blankets, leashes, collars, or cash. Consider volunteering. Adopt a pet. They need your help.

Shelters rock! See what dozens of celebrities do for animals by visiting the HSUS website.

Happy Howl-O-Ween!

Winning entry from My Dog Space

We're coming up on Halloween, and I've noticed an abundance of costume contests for pets. Dear to my heart are those that are organized to benefit animal rescue organizations.

Our local shelters have several fun pet costume contests going on. Check with your own area shelters and join in the fun, have a great time, and give them the support they need.

Happy Halloween to all!

Adopt-A-Shelter-Dog Month

Image from ASPCA website

October is Adopt-A-Shelter-Dog Month. The event is sponsored by the ASPCA and was created as a way to encourage adopting a shelter dog rather than buying a pet from a breeder.

There are literally thousands of adoptable pets euthanized each year because there simply are not enough homes for them all. You can help change these horrendous statistics by always looking for a shelter animal first.

Vet bill bonus: Typically, shelter pups will be up to date on vaccinations, already spayed or neutered, and have cleared a basic health exam before you take them home.

Looking for a particular breed? Many shelter animals are purebreds. There are also breed-specific rescue groups. And I hasten to add that most dogs I've brought into our family have been of the all-American mutt variety. They're fantastic!

If you aren't ready for the antics and hard work of caring for a puppy, think about adult dogs...they need homes, too! With an adult dog you'll be certain of ultimate size and personality, and usually the animal is already housebroken. Your carpet will thank you.

In honor of this event, the ASPCA is sponsoring a photo contest. They'd like you to catch your dog in the act of interspecies affection. Top 5 winners will be featured on the ASPCA website and receive an ASPCA prize package. No fee to enter, but submissions must be received by October 31, 2009. Check out the complete rules here.

Tough Times

Times are tough and money is oh-so-tight. Since we don't have as much to give, many nonprofit organizations are struggling in the current economy. Not only are donations down, but surrenders to shelters are higher than ever due to families being unable to afford their pets. So organizations dedicated to animal welfare have received a double whammy.

If you have a spare dollar or two, please consider donating to a worthy nonprofit organization that helps animals. I'd particularly recommend looking at your small local nonprofits who do not have the resources that are available to larger organizations. Most are existing right now on a wing and a prayer.

And remember that in addition to monetary support, becoming a volunteer is another wonderful way to make a difference for animals.

More than ever, animals need your help!

Planning a Vacation?

A resident of Best Friends Animal Sanctuary

A vacation type that has become increasingly popular in recent years is a "working vacation". By that, I mean you travel to a place with the specific plan of doing something more than sitting on the beach, such as becoming a cowpoke on a cattle ranch. In that spirit, I'd like to suggest a volunteer vacation experience that would be perfect for animal lovers.

Best Friends Animal Sanctuary located in Angel Canyon, Utah, is our nation's largest shelter for homeless pets. Housing between 1700 and 2000 animals at any given time, this 33,000 acre ranch is home to dogs, cats, birds, bunnies, horses, and farm animals. The animals come from shelters where they might otherwise be euthanized. Most animals are in need of medical or behavioral rehabilitation before they can be placed in a permanent home.

Caring for so many animals requires a lot of effort. Best Friends seeks both regular and visiting volunteers and has a variety of opportunities available. I have friends who volunteered at Best Friends and described the experience as remarkable. Someday (sigh), I hope to get there myself. Not only is the area beautiful, but who wouldn't love helping a homeless animal?

I'll bet this is one vacation you'd remember for a lifetime.

Take Your Dog to Work

Photo by KMF221


Will Fido go to work with you today?

That's the goal of the Pet Sitter's International (PSI) organization for their annual "Take Your Dog to Work Day" campaign. July 26, 2009 is this year's designated pooch visit, if your employer is so inclined. The day was created in 1999 as a way to recognize the bond between pets and people and to emphasize the importance of adopting a shelter pet.

And if you're seeking a pet friendly job, according to the SimplyHired website, the top 10 employers currently hiring are:

1. PetSmart
2. Google
3. Banfield, the Pet Hospital
4. Diversified Technical Solutions
5. Sur La Table
6. Amazon.com
7. Nature Conservancy
8. Dartmouth College
9. ValueOptions
10. Roy Talman & Associates


My employer is not on the list, but do not fear. As an alternative we're celebrating Keep Mom Home From Work Day. We plan to sit tight in the a.c. and chill.

Wherever your day takes you, have a wonderful weekend!

Hope for Parrots

Photo from Parrot Hope's website.


Most of us think of dog, cat, or bunnies when we talk about rescue organizations. Trust me when I say that there isn't a species out there that isn't in need of these services. Take parrots for example. They can live to be 80, are expensive to maintain properly, and many people get them with no real idea of what their care entails. This can result in abuse, neglect, or abandonment.

So today I'd like to feature a group that does parrot rescue. Based in Ohio, Parrot Hope steps in to help these beautiful and intelligent birds. They rehabilitate ill and injured parrots, and work on training to increase the bird's chances to be placed in a new home. Check out their website for more information on the services they provide.

Kudos to Parrot Hope for providing assistance to our feathered friends.

Number 4 Faves

Mutts by Patrick McDonnell

Mutts by Patrick McDonnell is different from many of today's strips. His artwork is reminiscent of the early days of cartoon comics. And what's not to love about this sweet, simple strip that gently reminds us animals are as much a part of creation as we, and just as deserving of respect and love. The main characters are a dog named Earl and a cat named Mooch. They have a droll way of looking at the world.

There are a couple of things I particularly love about McDonnell's work. He has an ongoing story line about a dog kept as a guard dog, who lives his life outside on a chain. McDonnell promises fans he'll free him one day, but not before he gets out the message about the cruel practice of chaining dogs.

Another story line that McDonnell uses is the message of adopting pets from shelters. He has done numerous poignant strips about abandoned animals and what they may think and feel, yet he handles these sensitive issues with tact, and a subtle sense of humor. As you might imagine, animal welfare groups adore Patrick McDonnell.

Therefore my number 4 faves are Earl and Mooch, stars of the comic strip, Mutts.

Pets for People

Old Dan, available for adoption from the St. Charles Humane Society.

Looking for a pet and not sure where to start? Petfinder is an online resource that gives shelters the ability to list available pets by photo and description. Over 12,000 shelters are represented on the site. Currently over 270,000 animals for adoption are featured. Petfinder is user friendly and gives the ability to search for critters by type (everything from barnyard animals to small and furry ones), area, age, gender, and breed. In addition, there are articles that provide information on such topics as choosing a pet, health issues, fun forums, and animal welfare issues.

Browse those sweet faces. I'll bet you can find the purr-fect someone to love!

Labs Bring It Again

Every January, the American Kennel Club (AKC) lists the number of registrations for each dog breed. Coming in at number one for the 18th straight year, is the Labrador Retriever, followed in order by Yorkshire Terriers, German Shepherds, Golden Retrievers, Beagles, Boxers, Dachshunds, Bulldogs, Poodles, and Shih Tzus. Each of these pups have unique characteristics that appeal to those looking for a specific breed. If you're interested in seeing where your choice falls with registrations, take a look at the complete list.

Well, I suppose you shouldn't argue with statistics, but I beg to differ with the AKC. I believe that the true number one dog is the all American mixed breed. I'll bet he can be found in more homes around the world than any pure bred dog. And with a combination of traits that often give the mixed breed better health and a happier disposition, the mixed breed should never be overlooked as a potentially wonderful companion animal.

You don't always need to find a breeder, when the perfect critter could be waiting at your local shelter.

Day for Animals

One of my favorite actresses (or female actor, as they prefer to be called today) is Doris Day. Though she hasn't made a film in decades, her accomplishments in movies and television, and her lovely singing voice remain an iconic symbol of the 40's,
50's, 60's, and even into the 70's and beyond. I still love to watch her romantic comedies where she played opposite the likes of Rock Hudson, James Garner, Cary Grant, David Niven, and other top leading men.

However, what I admire most about her is what she's done off-screen. A passionate animal welfare advocate, Miss Day has worked tirelessly to help animals and improve the human/animal bond. She established two animal welfare organizations, one of which recently merged with the Humane Society of the United States. The Doris Day Animal Foundation continues to operate by offering grants to unique projects that improve the life of animals. One of the Foundation's biggest accomplishments is creating Spay Day USA, which has resulted in the spay/neuter of literally thousands of companion animals. Visit the Foundation's website for more information:
www.ddaf.org

She keeps her involvement low-key, but at the age of 85 years, Doris Day remains a true friend of animals.

And that makes her a true friend of mine.

Food for Thought

www.stcharleshumanesociety.org


Feeding hungry people is a challenge that has become even more difficult in today's tough economic times. Food pantries across the nation report a substantial increase in need for services. Often, there isn't enough food available for those who need it. Fortunately, the holiday season stirs up a flood of generosity--donations to organizations, adopt-a-family programs, and food drives. But when the holidays are over, what happens? We carefully pack away our charitable impulses along with the beautiful holiday decorations, while many continue to face dark days.

People aren't the only ones in hard times. More pets than ever have been surrendered to shelters because families can no longer afford to keep them or have lost their family home and must temporarily stay in a place where pets aren't welcome. Yet there are ways to provide hope.

A few years ago, the St. Charles Humane Society created a program called Animeals. Its purpose is to help low income families and senior citizens feed their pets in times of crisis. The program uses pet food donated to the shelter, and like any other food pantry, those requesting assistance must provide proof of need. The program has almost no operating cost and is entirely volunteer-driven. It hasn't changed the world, but Animeals makes a difference by providing help to those who need it most.

Including the four-legged ones.

Christmas Pets

Photo courtesy of www.hsus.org

There are few gifts around that can generate as much excitement as a new pet for Christmas. But before you take the leap, consider a few things.

The holidays are a hectic time with decorations everywhere, people in and out, candles, out of the ordinary foods...well, the list goes on and on. Instead of buying a pet, consider giving a gift certificate to a shelter. Simply put the certificate with the new pet's crate/bed/dishes and top it all with a big bow! When the holidays are over and things have calmed down, the recipient can visit the shelter and pick out their new family member. The pet will have a much easier time adjusting in a more calm, normal environment. Plus, he/she can be the center of attention while everyone gets to know each other!

Now for some no-no's. Please don't surprise anyone with a pet. There may be a reason they don't have one, such as allergies or time restrictions. And even if you know they're looking, let them pick out their own animal (Repeat after me...gift certificate!), because the match should be a good fit for both.

Finally, please, please don't buy an animal from a pet store or backyard breeder. There are many good reasons for that advice which I'll cover another day. For now, just remember all the homeless pets patiently waiting in shelters or at animal control for a forever home. If no one takes a chance on them, many will be put to death. And why should a perfectly healthy, sweet, happy critter be euthanized?

Because we live in a pet overpopulated world, where too many people don't spay and neuter. And now there just aren't enough homes for them all.