Big wags for this pet protection

One of the most loved stories in Paw Print Post this year was our shelter pet contest, where you, the readers, picked your favorites. Walter, an elderly black Labrador retriever, and Eva, an adorable cat, won that contest, which enabled many readers to tell stories about pets they'd rescued, and who in turn, many said, rescued them.

The group behind the rescues in this photo album is on a distant shore, but their commitment to helping animals is near and dear to all of us. I thought you'd enjoy looking at the photos and learning more about Battlesea Dogs & Cats Home. It is one of the oldest and best known animal welfare charities in England and in the world. It is 150 years old and has found homes for three million cats and dogs since its opening.

Security device up your animals this New Year

As the fireworks and celebrations are underway, Animals around South Australia will be terrified by the loud noises and lights. With some animal hearing around 10 times more sensitive than human, that loud bang from a firework that makes you jump, can send your pets into unmanageable panic. It's not just dogs either, as the RSPCA prepares for a 30 percent increase in housing of dogs, cats, rabbits, guinea pigs, horses and all kinds of domesticated animals.

With many revellers heading out to enjoy the celebrations, RSPCA SA chief inspector Simon Richards said it is value treating your animals like they are young children. If possible, organize a friend that is not caption out to baby sit your pet animals. If you do return home and find your animal is missing, Simon recommends calling councils, local vets, the RSPCA and Animal Welfare League. If travelling on the roads whilst fireworks displays are happening, or heading home after the events, also ensure you are aware that Animal charities may be fleeing or in a panicked state, and may flit out in front of vehicles

Man may look charges in fire that killed pets

An eastern Pennsylvania man could face Animal unkindness and contempt charges after his home burned down, killing two dozen of his pets. Sixty-year-old Joseph Mayer was barred from owning animals after he pleaded guilty to animal cruelty in 2009. Fire officials say his home was smashed Monday in a blaze caused by cardboard, paper and clothing left near a space heater.

Fifteen birds, three cats, three dogs, two rabbits and a chinchilla died in the fire. Three cats, two dogs and one rabbit survived and were being treated at a veterinary core. The Pennsylvania Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals expects Mayer to face animal cruelty charges. Defense attorney Scott Wilhelm said Mayer may not have violated the terms of his responsible plea by owning pets.

RSPCA 'at breaking point' with discarded pets

The RSPCA's Weston Creek branch has been swamped this year, with over 700 animals taken in. The Society's Michael Linke says the facility is near breaking point. "Most of society is celebrating Christmas, and celebrating winding down, when in fact here at RSPCA we're zigzag up," he said."We're here every day over the Christmas/New Year period. Staff are not going to get a break."

Mr Linke says people who plan poorly for the holidays are more likely to abandon their pets because they have not organised a place for them to stay. "There’s a sample facility available in Canberra there's boarding facilities, there are people who will come to your home and sit your pets for you while you away," he said. "So we're begging the community to really look at the commercial options available to you before you make your travel plans."

Pets silent need home

Some of the five cats and four dogs detained in a Kalispell parking lot are being adopted by the public. The animals were exposed after clawing their way out of a trailer located in the Shopko parking lot. The family who claimed some of the pets did not return to adopt one dog that was left and all of the five cats.

The dog was adopted by a family on Friday and two cats establish homes on Tuesday, leaving three cats to be adopted. Officials with the Flathead County Animal Shelter say they are currently near full capacity when it comes to housing cats, but are still accepting them. Adoptions this time of year are grave to keep animals out of the cold.

Stanhope discards Greens animal welfare reform

Under the proposal, Pet shops would be barred from putting Animal welfare in their windows and selling to children. Chief Minister Jon Stanhope says the Government is already reviewing the laws and plans to put forward its own changes next year. He says the Greens' proposal goes too far and may well lead to more people buying pets on the black market.

"There's very high degrees of rule and transparency in relation to sales through pet shops," he said. "The pet sales those are of greater concerns are those that are done irregularly, those that are done over the garden fence, those that are done at markets, those that are done over the Internet."It's those dogs that we believe are at greater risk of being ill-treated, of not being kept in circumstances they should be."

Santa Stops At Animal Service Core

Santa section made a special appearance at a local Animal shelter to help raise money for the dogs and cats that are housed there. Persons could bring in their pets to the Tallahassee Leon Community Animal Service Center to take a photo with Santa and make those special holiday memories last. Some people said they would turn the photo into a holiday greeting card and even a decoration for their Christmas tree.

"She is a member of the family, she is on our Christmas card every year and people often ask after they ask how we're doing, how's Daisy doing so, it's just a good custom to do and the kids like it and she's part of the family," said Stacie Spears. The center asked folks to donate 5 dollars per picture to help the shelter maintain and care for the animals.

Adoptable Pets

THE Alameda Animal Shelter reports the following lost pets twisted in to the shelter during the week of Dec. 7 through Dec. 11 and requests the public's assistance in their identification: A young male tan-and-white Chihuahua longhair; a young adult female black German shepherd found near Clement and Grand streets; a young male tan and white shorthair Chihuahua with a black bandanna establish near Harbor Bay Parkway; and a large male adult chocolate brown siamese cat with dark points found under a automobile on Lafayette Street.

If you recognize any of these lost pets, please contact the shelter at the number at the end of this column. Rescuer needs help: A longtime rabbit rescuer in Alameda is opposite serious health issues of her own and needs to find loving homes, or other rabbit save organizations, for as many of the bunnies in her care as possible. All are adults and are singles, pairs and one group of four siblings. Most have been spayed or neutered and are healthy, but a few have non-life-threatening health issues that need some special care.

Expect for the best works for ties, not pets

While the idea of waking up to a puppy or kitten on Christmas morning is an tempting one, the city’s Animal and Bylaw Services suggests waiting until after the holidays to become a pet owner. Director Bill Bruce said a better option to buying pets as Christmas presents is giving a gift certificate. “The whole issue comes up every Christmas about gifting of pets,” said Bruce. “Pets are a wonderful addition to everybody’s life but a pet is a very close thing.

”He said it’s better when people are able to come in and pick animals that they bond with.“We all hear the stories about gifting someone a jersey that they hate. It’s worse when you’re dealing with an actual living being.”The gift certificates can be purchased year-round and don’t finish. That approach allows the recipient to have a pet when the time is right for them, Bruce said. He added that if Animal and regulation Services doesn’t have the right animal for the gift-certificate holder, it can work something out with the Humane Society.

Pets Need to be Kept hot in the Cold

Humane Society is getting an increased number of reports of pets being left outside, alone in the cold. "Animals charities need filling, they have to have some way to get out of the cold, if you have a pet and he's chained out to a tree, rested guarantee we will remove that pet immediately," said Linda Lugo, director. 

The Humane Society urges owners to check this from happening, by doing the following:
- Keep food and water fresh for pets at all times
- Insulate shelters and dog houses with blankets, hay, or brood needles
- Bring pets inside as much as possible
Lugo recommends owners keep their pets indoors rather than outside. "Just because they have wrath skin, doesn't mean they don't get cold,"

Information for holiday travel with pets

• Always make sure your pet is properly identified with current information, like address and phone number.
• Have your pet travel in their kennel to ease strain of the animal.
• Makes sure the kennel is the right size. Your pet should be able to stand up and turn around comfortably. If traveling by plane, make sure the kennel is labeled with "this end up" and "live animal" stickers to cover safety.
• If traveling by car, try to keep your pet on the same potty schedule as at home.
• When traveling by plane, try to book direct flights and inform the flight entourage that you have a pet in cargo.
• Avoid traveling with pets that are too young, delicate, or sick to travel. Animals that are "pug-nosed" should not fly in the cargo of a plane. Take copies of vaccination records in case of an emergency. These documents are usually required for soaring.
• Plan your trip in proceed. Some states have strict rules on pet travel. If this happens to affect your trip, planning ahead will allow time to contact a kennel. Holidays are a busy time for kennels, so they fill up quickly.

Charity for pets

AS YOU do your Christmas shopping this year don’t forget our four-legged friends. Residents have the chance to lighten the day of an unwanted dog by making a donation or dropping off a present at a Mitcham pet supplies store.

PETstock assistant manager Jodie Miles said donations and presents left at the store’s wishing tree would benefit Rescued with Love, a Balwyn-based charity which fosters and rehouses dogs. The aid rescues unwanted dogs from pounds and shelters, and finds them a new home. To make a donation to the wishing tree go to PETstock.

Animals barred from 4th Avenue Street Fair

The 4th Avenue Merchants Association is giving a thumbs up for the recent rule to ban animals from the Fourth Avenue Street Fair."With 300,000 people, you have one percent that bring a pet, you could imagine how many pets it is. It's not a place for animals," said Kurt Tallis, director of the street light.Vendors said leaving your four-legged friends at home is a good idea, especially when it comes to safety.

"You don't need a dog who might get thrilled and bite somebody or do something - it's in the welfare for everybody," vendor Dave Schindler said.Longtime vendor Debie Quaglino said she's had her share of animals destroying her artwork during festivals."There's a lot of barking and again people try to control their pets, and it makes it difficult," Quaglino said.But others say the regulation is a bazaar, and all animals should be welcomed."Why have birds, why have fish? You know I think all Abroad animals should be invited to everything,"

300 complaint against circus animals exploitation

A crowd of some 300 protested against circus animal spite and exploitation this evening as a circus started presenting its shows in Floriana. The protesters walked from City Gate to Floriana Granaries, where the circus has been set up.
The crowd included representatives of 20 NGOS which form the Circus Animal Rights Coalition. Some of those present shouted' No to animal cruelty No to animal circuses'. They also carried banners against animal spite and jeered and booed the people who walked into the circus tent. No incidents were reported.

A spokesman for the coalition said the NGOs were concerned that notwithstanding the public's opposition to the utilization of animals in circuses, JS Productions had still brought to Malta a circus which featured Abroad animals.
In the morning, circus organisers Silvio Zammit and Johann Said said the circus featured two lions, two bears, a tiger and a hippo. They were born in detention and cared for in line with EU rules, they insisted. The circus also features acrobats, trapeze artists, jugglers and a water show.

Cold weather alert: keep your pets

The temperatures are dropping quickly, and it’s time to be sure your pets are well protected from the elements. And keep an eye out for other animals whose need for shelter and warmth may be deserted during this time. Thank you to Orange County Animal Services for providing us with this vital information:

“In addition to these tips, we advise citizens to report chained dogs that are not provided with sufficient shelter for the cold weather,” said Dil Luther, Assistant Manager of Orange County Animal Services. “It is against Orange County Code to leave dogs chained outside during stormy weather as well as between the hours of 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. Chained dogs are at high-risk for suffering the effects of cold weather for long periods of time.”

Snakes on a airplane

A passenger was arrested after security officials exposed he had carried snakes, birds and a squirrel in hand luggage on a long-haul flight. In a thankfully less-dramatic version of the 2006 thriller film Snakes On A Plane, fellow passengers were blissfully unaware of the man's box full of pets. However, police arrested the suspect at Abu Dhabi Airport after the Etihad Airways flight from Jakarta, Indonesia when the animals were establish with him.

The snakes were identified by an specialist as being non-venomous reticulated and blood pythons. It was unclear how he managed to get the animals past security in Indonesia.Khamis al Marar, the acting director general of security affairs and ports in Abu Dhabi, stressed that carrying animals on board is strictly forbidden. In this case, other passengers' safety was at risk, he said.

He added that licensed animals had to travel in specially designed boxes, which should be stored in the aircraft's hold. The unidentified passenger was travelling on Etihad Airlines flight EY471. No-one from the airline was available for comment. Last year a Qantas flight was grounded after four pythons being approved in the hold escaped in flight between Alice Springs and Melbourne.

Why Large Birds are not correct for Everyone

Some of the most exotic animals that are kept as pets are birds. Large birds often attract a good many people because of their intelligence and almost humanlike manner. However, experts agree that large birds are not the right choice for everyone. Large breed birds, like cockatoos and parrots, are highly sought after in the market. When a bird is caged for long periods of time it will form a condition known as “cage bound.” When a bird becomes cage jump it fears the world that is outside of the cage and can turn aggressive. 

That is why large birds need to be allowed out of the confine to roam free for sure times during the day. Health problems are also common with the large birds. If they feel neglected then they may start plucking their feathers out. Birds that are frightened in their cage can do themselves harm by flying around inside the confined space. Other birds will start to bite, which can lead to further problems. As such most pet experts suggest that perspective bird owners do their research before owning a large type bird.

Micro-pigs are for life

Micro-pigs, bred to be much smaller than conservative pigs, have become popular pets but they are still farm animals and can grow much bigger, ministers warn. New pig owners should contact their vet, register their animal, have it identified and learn about its welfare needs. They are urged not to move it without a licence or feed it kitchen scraps. Pigs are subject to the same disease control measures and system as commercial livestock, says the Environment Department (Defra).

‘Remember that a pig is a ranch animal and not a pet for Christmas,’ said agriculture minister Jim Paice. ‘A micro-pig may sound like a popular gift idea – but, beware, it can grow too big. I’ve already heard stories about micro-pigs outgrowing their homes.’ Mr Paice advises pig fans to pop along to a petting farm if they want to see the mini creatures. Defra said that pigs kept as pets are still considered farm animals in law because of their wellbeing needs and the risk of spreading disease.

Don't forget your pets

The Shoshone County Humane Society reminds people to make preparations for their animals, small and large, for the winter season. Dogs and cats should have sufficient food, water and shelter. If dogs are chained, they should have exercise off their chains daily. No animal should be on a chain 24 hours a day - they need to be socialized and loved properly. They also need shelter, food and fresh, thawed water. Large animals need regular veterinarian care, vaccinations and foot adornment on a regular basis. 

We get many complaints about horses not being cared for properly. People need to understand they feel pain just like we do and they need proper care, love and attention. This year has been a difficult one with the economy, and donations are always welcome to help us assist the animals and birds in our locale. To send a donation as part of your sharing this holiday season, it can be sent to the Shoshone Humane Society.

Rabies cases noted in November

Health officials reported on Wednesday a rise in extreme animal cases in Botetourt County and announced a vaccine clinic for this weekend.Eight cases were found in November, up from six reported in the first 10 months of the year and four reported in the same month in 2009, said Bobby Parker, a Virginia Department of Health lecturer.

They were four skunks in Fincastle, two skunks in Blue Ridge, a skunk in Troutville and a cat in Buchanan.Rabies is a disease that can kill animals and humans by attacking the worried system. It can be transmitted through an open wound or through the eye, mouth or nose.

Flathead Valley Animal Shelter Has Worst overcapacity In Years

The Flathead Valley Animal Shelter reports its bad year in many years for overcrowding. They've had to close their doors to accepting pets on several days in the past few weeks.The shelter currently houses about 70 dogs and 80 cats. The director, Cliff Bennett, says they are over capacity by about 20 pets not including the 50 others in foster homes. Bennett explains the cold weather inhibits the shelter from given that extra housing outside for the pets.

"We're in disaster mode right now. We're having to turn people away on some days when we just don't have any place to put animals," states Bennett. The shelter asks that pet owners continue to check with the shelter on a daily basis if they are needing to give up their pet. The shelter may have room come available as pets are adopted. Bennett also says they have a few suggestions for pet owners if the shelter is unable to take on any more pets. Mostly, Bennett's just hoping people will come accept the the pets commenting that many of the dogs and cats are "friendly" and would make "great house pets."

Pet pictures with Santa

Santa Claus is coming to town tomorrow to and wants to spend it with your pet. The Portage Animal Welfare Society (PAWS) is welcoming Santa to the Herman previous Centre for a special photo session. People are invited to bring their pets down to have their picture taken with Santa tomorrow as part of the PAWS adopt-a-thon at the Herman previous Centre. For people interested in adopting an animal before the holidays this is the perfect time to do it according to Karla Kirkwood, Director of Animal eating for PAWS.

"This is going to be the only time you will get to have a peep at all of the animals available for adoption," said Kirkwood. "Some of our animals are currently in the care of foster families but they will all be together on Saturday, so this is a good opportunity to see what is available for adoption."

Vick backing animal movement

Shamed NFLer Michael Vick is urging kids across America to be kind to their pets as part of his new-establish dedication to animal welfare organizations. The quarterback was arrested for animal abuse and promoting dog fighting in 2007 and subsequently spent 23 months in jail. Since his release last year, Vick has worked with animal charities and he's now joined the Humane Society's End Dogfighting movement to teach kids about the importance of looking after animals.

The 30-year-old Philadelphia Eagle has been promoting the system across the U.S., and during a visit to a Connecticut high school on Tuesday he told the youngsters about how his attitude towards pets has changed."I didn't really care what people felt about animals, I didn't care about the welfare of animals," he told the students. And Vick is certain it was his destiny to become an animals rights campaigner.

12th Canine Christmas is a platform for dogs

For the 12th year, dog lovers, their pets and animals in need of a permanent home celebrated at the annual Canine Christmas Festival. Highlights of the event Saturday at Bishop Animal Shelter in west Bradenton were a dog costume fashion show, procession of adoptable dogs, contests and a talent show.
 

There also were pet pictures with Santa, prize drawings, a silent sale, vendors and food. The admission fee was a donation of pet food, toys or treats to go animal welfare and save groups that help homeless cats and dogs.

PET SIGN

Seventy-two-year-old Sue Davis of Ottumwa faces numerous charges for using her home as her personal animal shelter. She was housing as many as 84 cats and nearly a dozen dogs in what police describe as filthy conditions.

"She was charged with that because of the number she had," Police Chief James Clark says, "She was not able to satisfactorily take care of or keep the building clean. She had somewhere around 90 dogs or cats, 64 of them in cages in the garage. The rest were in her house."

Pet food advice accessible

Ensuring animals eat proper pet food as different to the rich offerings humans consumer over Christmas has been advised. Supplying an animal with pet food rather than failure or other items traditionally associated with the holiday season may be better for their health. Giving an animal rich foods popular with people over the festive period can cause a range of absorption problems not experienced by humans. 

For example, dogs are at a greater risk of choking on failure bones, while other items could cause sickness, Fosters.com notes. The news provider adds that steps can be taken to ensure that pets do not cause problems while owners are entertaining. If any candles are lit, they should be placed in positions where they cannot be accidentally knocked by the wagging tails of animals, the news provider said. Pets can become besieged by different guests, the article added, suggesting that owners should create a special place where an animal can go to avoid any visitors.

Big saunter: every dog can have day

Hundreds of the city's playful hounds will be assembly at the off-lead area of Innes Common at 1pm in an event aimed at the city's responsible dog owners and their four-legged friends. The dogs adopted from Hamilton City Council's Animal Education and Control Centre will lead the procession around Hamilton Lake at 2pm, followed by other dogs and their owners. Council animal learning and control manager Fiona Sutton encouraged all owners to bring their dogs to the event in an effort to make it the largest dog walk in New Zealand. 

In the year ended October 31, 91 dogs were adopted from the centre after they were picked up wandering the streets and were not claimed – or were given to the centre by owners who could no longer find a home for them. Amanda Parker's family has adopted three dogs from the centre including papillon-chihuahua cross Sprat, who was rehomed from the centre four years ago. Sprat was proving to be a whizz on the agility course this week when the Waikato Times visited him and kennel-mates Pedro and Bosco the poodle.

Get a Shelter Pet Home for the Holidays

The Southampton Animal Shelter has dogs and cats that are neutered, trained and ready for acceptance. These loving animals would make excellent pets. In this photo column, we say, hi, to some of the shelter's valuable residents, who are waiting for a good home

A weekend of animal enchantment

IF you love pets you can’t give to miss all the fun and attractions at the first ever LovePets Show, on November 27 and 28.Britain’s only show that covers all pets has attracted huge interest from all over the country. It’s a great family day out as there really is something for everyone with a host of arena attractions, celebrity guests and hundreds of stands and sideshows.

 

 From noble steeds to blue-tongued skinks there’s never been a show like LovePets before, with its unbelievable range of animals on show. Celebrity guests include Britain’s Got Talent stars Kate and Gin, TV vet Joe Inglis and legendary strongman and budgerigar proficient Geoff Capes. Love Pets Show is at the Showground, Peterborough, PE2 6XE, November 27 and 28 from 9.30am to 5pm. Tickets can also be purchased on the day.

Pet dogs must at least 30 minutes of exercise each day

Pets should take on at least 30 minutes of activity each day and large canines need more, explained veterinary surgeon Eric Jackson, speaking to the Telegraph. Overweight animals can suffer from illnesses connecting to obesity such as diabetes mellitus, heart disease, high blood pressure, cancer and skin diseases, according to the RSPCA.

Indeed, many owners are simply feeding their furry friends too much food and Morrison's has announced it will put section control advice on their packaging, the newspaper continued. John Cannan, the supermarket's product development manager for animal feed, said: "We've had feedback from our customers which says that they are often in the dark about how much food they should be buying and giving their pet."And the publication concluded that research has shown 29 per cent of cats and 36 per cent of dogs that have been treated by vets were classed as fat recently.

Tony the Truckstop Tiger keep posted

Tony the Tiger, confined at a truckstop in Louisiana, continues to be embroiled in controversy and his plight was recently featured on CNN. The Founder of Big Cat save who has been trying to intervene on Tony's behalf, debated with Tony's owner who continues to challenge the need for intervention, although the tiger's confinement in the unnatural surroundings of the truckstop.

 "It is the Department's position that private control of tigers poses a significant hazard to public safety and is detrimental to the health of the animal. Prolonged confinement is by its nature stressful to tigers and proper long-term care by experienced persons is vital to the health of the animal." Tony's owner was decided a permit to keep him at the truckstop. The permit is up for renewal on December 14, and those concerned about Tony's welfare would like to see the permit revoked. They support the 1993 Ordinance regarding from abroad animals and would like to see it respected.

DJ Samantha Ronson is facing a legal fight over the dog

Celebrity DJ Samantha Ronson is facing a legal fight over her pet pooch after the dog was accused of attacking and killing a neighbor's dog in their Los Angeles apartment building. Farnouche Kamran filed outfit against Ronson in Los Angeles Superior Court on Friday, claiming the DJ's little Cadillac pounced on her dog Tiger during an encounter in the hallway of their complex in August.

Kamran alleges Cadillac in trouble its teeth into Tiger and the scrap became so violent, her pet died from the injuries sustained in the alleged fight. The plaintiff goes on to claim Cadillac has a history of freezing and attacking other pets and their owners - and accuses Ronson of failing to take appropriate action to put a stop to the incidents. Kamran is seeking $750,000 in damages, in addition to medical operating cost and punitive damages, citing charges including negligence, assault and battery. A case management conference has been set for March 2nd.

Six pets death of the pet owner homes

Police and animal control officers are investigating the deaths of six pets in Powell County. All of the animals appear to have eaten hot dogs laced with insect killer, according to a report by WKYT-TV in Lexington.

Investigators say the hot dogs were left in fields near the homes of the pet owners. State police say it is a method that is sometimes used to kill coyotes, but they're not sure the pet deaths are accidental.

Ventura County Animal Services

Ventura County Animal Services asks people who are looking for a new pet to check out the dogs being housed at the Camarillo protection, 600 Aviation Drive, in the airport complex. On any given day the Camarillo Shelter cares for more than 175 dogs, in addition to numerous cats, bunnies, horses and other critters.

Dogs end up at a shelter through no responsibility of their own. 29 percent surrendered their dogs due to behavior problems, 29 percent because of the family’s housing situation, 25 percent cited incompatibility with the family’s lifestyle and 15 percent surrendered their dogs due to the family’s preparation and/or expectations At the Camarillo shelter, 17 percent of the dogs in 2009 were owner surrenders; however, 70 percent were loose dogs picked up with no license or visible owner information. Fewer than 25 percent of those strays were broken by their owners. Shelter dogs are not damaged goods. Renowned dog trainer Joel Silverman says shelter animals make good pets—proper training is the key.

Tips for Pets' Fundraiser Thursday Night at declare Jumper

The Nevada Humane Society is share its second annual ‘Tip for Pets' event at the Claim Jumper restaurant this Thursday night from 5pm-9pm. A pet food drive will also be located outside in the parking lot.

Media personalities, NHS board members, guardsmen from the Nevada Air National Guard and troopers from the Nevada Highway tour are all scheduled to take part in the volunteer event. Proceeds will stay in Reno to offset the costs to care for and house hundreds of displaced dogs and cats. On average, it costs about $240 to spay/neuter, protect and micro-chip every animal the ‘no-kill' Nevada Humane Society receives.

Paris Hilton Brings Her Doggie Shopping

Paris Hilton gives her animals the royal handling, this we know. Today's evidence: She brought her little chihuahua shopping in the most delightful bright blue carrier (which matched her own shirt and purse). Too cute! The match-y family went out and browsed at Samy's Camera in West Hollywood. 

We're not sure what she purchased on this trip, but she recently bought a Flip camera while at the same store. We bet that comes in handy when she wants to record copy of her adorable Pets! Paris totally loves animals and has more than 20 bunnies, lots of super cute dogs, a bird named Hank, a tiny piglet, and even a possum! She's always said if the whole fame thing didn't work out, she'd love to work at a zoo -- so until then she's just in charge of her zoo at home.

Pets can freeze with these owners: 72% would take on bears

We asked readers Monday if they'd follow a Gig Harbor, Wash., woman's lead to get between her dog and a brown bear that worried them on a walk. She and the dog (a medium size mutt) are going to be fine. Maybe that influenced readers? Anyway, 72% said yes, they'd do the same thing or probably do the same thing. Only 18% said, no, they'd scream and run for help. One reader said his pet would take on the bear for him.

 

You can still consider in. Many of you have said before that pets are important family members. One owner took out a full page ad for three days when his cat left, for instance, and it came home. These figures really drive home that sentiment. Breeze commented "I'd do whatever I had to do to save her (his dog)."The bear is still on the loose, avoiding traps set by U.S. Fish and Wildlife officials. Now, high school officials are guarding the border of a wooded area near a high school there, according to the Associated Press, caring students who wander outside. I'm hoping it's sound asleep for the winter by now.

Women are best pet owners

Women are more liable than men to animals that are cute, for example kittens and puppies, because that cuteness mimics that of a child, he said. They are also better at caring for their pets – for example, they are more likely to take them to a vet when they need it. Our body chemistry plays a crucial role in other ways, he says. While tests show men with high testosterone levels are more level to mistreating their dogs, the effect of a hormone called oxytocin has the opposite effect.

This is a substance that switches on maternal instincts, and some experts believe pets are major producers of the hormone. ‘Women who are taking hormonal birth control act differently from women who are not taking birth control. And those who are particularly sensitive to cuteness are women of reproductive age.’ The gender divide shows itself in other ways, said Professor Herzog, who explores our relationship with animals in his book Some We Love, Some We Hate, Some We Eat. Those who collect a large number of animals are overwhelmingly women, while those who misuse animals are often men.

Ill sea lions can infect people, pets

Marine mammal experts are advice people to stay away from sea lions they may find dead on a beach. KGW-TV reports at least two more dead sea lions were establish over the weekend on Oregon beaches.

The animals may carry a bacterial disease — called leptospirosis — that can be spread to dogs and people. In people it causes flulike symptoms — fever, chills and headaches. The disease can be spread on contact with a sick or dead California sea lion or its waste. Keith Chandler with the Stranding Network says if you see a dead sea lion on the beach, give it a wide land, especially if you have a pet with you.

Paying People to secure Their Pets

A few years back, a Freakonomics reader named Stephanie Downs wrote in with an idea: bribing people (with cash, gift certificates etc.) to sterilize or neuter their pets. “I found your story about the [Israeli] daycares very interesting,” she wrote. “I want to do the research upfront on what will inspire people instead of spending years finding the right formula.

” Stephanie recently launched the FIXIT Foundation, committed to “finding ways to increase interest in spay/neuter programs.” As she told us in a recent e-mail: “By January of this year we had agreement from the shelter in St. Croix to participate in the program and set ourselves up on island not long after. This summer we surveyed 2 percent of the island on their sensitivity of spay/neuter and what if any incentives would bring them around to the idea. Last month we completed an animal census to calculate the number of animals on island, and this month we will be doing message testing in survey environments. That data will be used to select the best messages to launch live in January.” We look forward to finding out what kind of incentives Stephanie finds successful — or if, perhaps, they somehow backfire.

Pet Pals - After the fireworks

Diwali is a festival of lights and sound, joy and enjoyment only for human beings. It is a time of terror and upset for all dogs. It is time for us to be aware of the harm and distress we are causing animals. Every year in CUPA, we come across cases of terrible injury caused by crackers. There are burn cases and accident cases that are the result of dogs running across roads in panic to get away from crackers. A dog's hearing is much more sensitive than ours.

Recently, we rescued a young German Shepherd that had picked up an atom bomb which exploded in its mouth. Its jaw was crushed and scalded. Despite treatment, it succumbed to its injuries. It is very important that all pet owners ensure that a tag with contact number and address is fixed to the collar of their dog. We are planning to start a Lost and Found Blog, where people who lose pets and people who find dogs can post the information to facilitate upturn of lost pets. It is about time we started celebrating festivals more responsibly.

keep your pets this Halloween

While you trick or treat with your children this Halloween be sure to maintain track of your pets. If your pet puts on a costume make sure it's flame retardant and fits properly. Honey Creek Animal Hospital in Terre Haute also reminds pet owners to keep candy out of reach. Milk chocolate is the least harmful to dogs, but the darker the chocolate the inferior your pet could feel. If they do consume it, be sure to look for the warning signs like vomiting or diarrhea.

"Sometimes you'll have seizures, tremors, elevated heart rate, usually when you start considering those symptoms it's a good idea to take to your veterinarian as quickly as possible," Honey Creek Animal Hospital Greg Reilly said. People who own a black cat also need to keep a watchful eye. Some people are known to afflict these animals during this time of year. If you see an unsual activity involving animals this Halloween call you local police department.

Veterinary Specialty Center of Tucson (VSCT) Wins Second Wells Fargo Copper Cactus Award

The Veterinary Specialty Center of Tucson (VSCT) has won a second respected Copper Cactus Award, this time for Community Service. VSCT was one of only nine area businesses honored at Wells Fargo's 13th Annual Copper Cactus Awards on October 21st at the Westin La Paloma Resort and Spa. Over 330 companies were nominated.
 

"We are incredibly pleased to be awarded another Copper Cactus award," stated Barbara Gores, DVM, DACVS, Founding Owner, VSCT. "We have always thrived to make a positive giving in our community, and to be honored for community service makes us very proud. Giving back is very important, since it says a lot about a company and its people."  

"VSCT thrives to give back to the community," states VSCT Hospital Administrator Jan Woods. "We deliver sympathetic care to pets, pet owners and veterinarians 24/7. We also provide discounts for certified service dogs and animals at local pet shelters. Our pet blood donor program and non-profit Cause-Four-Paws was started to help pet owners in need. We provide monthly flattering continuing education seminars to area veterinary staff, and our employees volunteer at local animal related non-profit organizations."

Palike holds pets responsible for climb in stray dogs

As culling of dogs is no longer resorted to by the BBMP due to protests by animal lovers and animal rights groups, it adopted the Animal Birth Control programme to contain the dog menace. Even though, the Palike has spent a whopping Rs 10 crore in the past eight years for dog sterilisation programme, the lost dog population has increased to two lakh. If the population of the pet dogs is taken into account the total dog population in the City can be put at 3.5 lakh.

The Palike has now found out that pet dogs have significantly contributed to rise in the population of wander away dogs. Hence, it has now shifted its focus on sterilisation of pet dogs. A review meeting on the issue was chaired by Mayor S K Nataraj on Monday. At the meeting the Palike decided that it would fix the number of pet dogs to be crazed and would also collect a licence fee from pet owners. Moreover, owners who have pet dogs that are not sterilised have to pay three times more licence fee. However, the licence has not yet been fixed, said a BBMP official.

Kittens break out fire

A devastated family forced to leave their cats at the back when fire broke out in their home were pleased to hear the creatures are safe and well. According to the Bridlington Free Press, Lee Nuttall and the rest of her house had a lucky escape when they woke up to find their residence was full of smoke. They managed to get outside but were worried for the wellbeing of the three kittens - Nut, Meg and Kamii - which were shut up in the kitchen.

However, after firefighters at home, the animals were brought out in fine shape, even fighting against the machinery that was attempting to administer oxygen therapy."Those lads merit a medal for what they do and we can't thank them enough. They looked like film stars coming out with these tiny kittens. As one of the biggest independent cat insurance providers in the UK, Animal Friends Insurance products are available to buy online or the phone ( 0844 70 50 300 ). We offer a wide range of affordable cat insurance options to suit all budgets from accident only policies to full lifetime cover.

WeSNIP garage sale to profit local pets

The Whatcom County WeSNIP organization has scheduled a garage sale this weekend to help give free and low-cost spay and neutering to dogs and cats of low-income Whatcom County residents. The event is listed from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, October 30 at 1200 Iowa Street in Bellingham (next to Windsor Plywood). Donations are currently being accepted from 5 to 6:30 p.m.
Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday, and could include books, household items, kitchenware, furniture, pet supplies, children’s items, electronics, artwork, tools, clothing, shoes, bicycles, and exercise equipment. Volunteers are also needed to help set up at 6 p.m. Friday as well as to help with the sale on Saturday from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. and to help clean up after. Plastic grocery bags and newspapers are also needed.

Pets at center of 5-county tragedy dril

Animal service agencies from five counties took part in a tragedy drill to practice how they would handle and shelter pets during an emergency. Volunteers brought about 20 dogs to the Clackamas County Fairgrounds in Canby on Wednesday.

They also brought stuffed toy luxurious cats and bunnies as stand-ins for the real animals that might have proved too temperamental. Clackamas County coordinated the exercise that included agencies from Columbia, Multnomah, Washington and Clark counties. Officials took photos of each pet with its owner and tagged each with matching identification wristbands or collars.

Pet defense urged on Halloween

Hoping to cut down on the number of lost pet news this Halloween, Chico police have issued some precautions animal owners should take before people hit their neighborhood. Large numbers of people coming to the door can be upsetting, especially to territorial dogs. With the door opening and closing all night, dogs are more likely to dash out. If pets are uneasy around children or loud noises, they should be secured in a quiet area of the home.

Food, water, a toy or two and a litter box, for cats, should be provided. In case the bad happens, and they do run away, make sure pets are tagged and licensed. If you insist on putting your dog in a costume for Halloween, introduce it to them gradually and see how they react. Finally, keep pets away from candy. Chocolate and candy wrappers can be especially harmful to dogs. Many dogs respond with fear when approached by an adult or child wearing a costume. An otherwise docile dog may snap or bite under such stress.

Prince George's County take on a pet

Prince George's County Animal Shelter, 3750 Brown Station Rd. in Upper Marlboro, makes animals available for approval by residents of the county and other jurisdictions. Adoptable animals, as well as lost pets, can be seen at the shelter's Web site, http://princegeorgescountymd.gov. Under the "Select a Service" drop-down menu, select "Animal Control." The shelter's viewing and adoption hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Mondays, Tuesdays, Fridays and Saturdays and 11:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. Wednesdays. The shelter is closed Thursdays, Sundays and holidays.

Poor Animals want Help

Many animals have been put down or not been adopted yet in Animal Shelters. There are many animals that have been left in a shelter for many reasons. It is sad to see many different animals just be caged up with no hope of anyone adopting them. That’s why more people have to be aware of what’s happening to them.

Putting down pets means killing animals and that is really tragic. Sometimes they have a limited time to be in the Animal Shelter so that’s why they get put down if nobody adopts them. These are some reasons for dogs ending up in shelters, for example:
• New Baby
• Landlord doesn’t allow pets
• Limited space
• Too much energy
• Don’t have time for their animal
I did some research and I called a shelter there are many shelters in San Diego so, you can adopt an animal where ever you want. There are many different types of animals such as horses, dogs, cats, snakes, pigs, lizards, goats, turtles, birds and many other animals. The cost to adopt a dog is seventy-five dollars, but there are many benefits to that like having a new companion, learning about the animal you picked out and many other things.

Clint Eastwood reveals a menagerie of pets

Legendary actor Clint Eastwood has exposed his passion for Animal welfare and his menagerie of pets. Speaking to USA Today's Paw Print Post, the The Good, The Bad and The Ugly star explained that his studio offices play swarm to a number of different creatures, including a tame squirrel that likes to eat some nuts kept specially for him in one room.

"We have two tortoises, we have a pig, we have five chickens, we've got a guinea pig, a chinchilla and two rats," Eastwood said, admitting that there may be more that he has forgotten. And it seems like the slowest of all the animals may be one of those closest to Dirty Harry's heart - he waxed poetic about the personality of one of the tortoises, calling it a "character" and praising its "social side". His Million Dollar Baby co-star Hilary Swank is also known to be an animal lover, fronting pet food Iam's Home 4 the Holidays campaign last year.

Dog supplies news: Pet owners 'must take added care on Bonfire Night

An animal charity has called on members of the public to think of pets this Bonfire Night. Although Bonfire Night is a source of fun for many, it can be a tough time for pet owners, who may be using all of the dog supplies at their disposal to keep their animals calm. The Scottish SPCA has called on people who own animals to take extra care on November 5th 2010 and offered tips on how to distract dogs and cats.

Televisions and radios should be left on during firework displays, as feline and canine hearing can be up to three times as sensitive as humans'. Chief superintendant at the charity Mike Flynn also called on the government to change the laws about when fireworks can be sold.

"Because the current legislation is so relaxed, fireworks can and are being set off on any given day and for weeks and months on end rather than being limited to the major festival periods," he commented. According to the RSPCA, it is also a good idea for dog owners to alter their walking routines during firework seasons to ensure animals are indoors when bangers are likely to be going off.