posted Feb 22, 2010 4:03 PM by Angela Grujicic
Below is the story,
you can go to http://exposeanimalabusers.org/ to sign a petition an
read more!
Should animal abusers be registered like sex offenders?
California may soon
place animal abusers on the same level as sex offenders by listing them in
an online
registry,
complete with their home addresses and places of employment.
On Friday, State
Senator Dean Florez (D) announced a bill for a statewide registry in California,
which follows in the footsteps of our state's newly passed protections for
chickens, pigs and cattle. Similar bills have already been introduced in Rhode
Island, Colorado and Tennessee, but, to date, have not passed.
The proposed bill,
drafted with help from the Animal Legal
Defense Fund (ALDF), would require any person convicted of a
felony involving animal cruelty to register with the police and provide a range
of personal information along with a current photograph. This information and
the person's specific offense would then be posted online. The
website Petabuse.com already offers a limited
type of online registry, with listings of animal offenders and their
crimes.
Last fall, California
became the first state to outlaw tail-docking of dairy cows, where the tail is
partly amputated to ease the milking process. In 2008, we also passed
Proposition 2, which gave hens, calves and pigs more room in their crates or
cages. (This controversial law made some agriculturally minded residents hot
enough under the collar to threaten to secede from the state.)
Meanwhile ALDF has
launched a new campaign, ExposeAnimalAbusers.org to help all states
establish public animal abuser registries. The ALDF hopes such registries would
protect animals, pet guardians and communities by preventing repeat offenses
from anyone with a known history of abusing animals. This could include violence
(torture, mutilation, intentional killings), sexual abuse and animal fighting as
well as neglect (such as hoarding).
ExposeAnimalAbusers.org
enables the public to contact their state lawmakers and urge them to propose
legislation for the creation of state registries. Visitors to the website can
also watch a short video (above) that outlines the benefits of such registries
(i.e. preventing new cases of animal abuse and creating safer communities). At
10:30 a.m. (PST) this morning, Senator Florez's live press conference will be
available for viewing here.
ALDF is promoting the
registry not only as a way to notify the public but also as a possible early
warning system for other crimes. "We know there's a link between those who abuse
animals and those who perform other forms of violence," says Stephan Otto, the
group's director of legislative affairs.
In addition to sex
offenders, California currently lists arsonists in an online registry. Animal
abusers would be listed on a similar site. Supporters say that such a registry
could also be valuable in tracking people who run puppy mills and
animal-fighting rings.
"A lot of times these
people will just pick up and move to another jurisdiction or another state if
they get caught," says Gillian Deegan, an attorney who has written on animal
welfare laws. "It would definitely help on those types of cases where people
jump around."
Senator Florez says he
is confident that he has the votes needed to move the measure forward and
estimates that the registry would cost less than $1 million to
establish. |
posted Feb 19, 2010 7:54 AM by Angela Grujicic
[cross-posted from Dr. Jon's Dog Crazy Newsletter]Emergencies
happen all the time. Some are preventable and some are not. There are
some common household dangers that send dogs to the emergency room
quite often. Do you know what they are?
I'd
like to tell you so we can keep your dog healthy and avoid an emergency
situation! Here is an article with some common problems that occur and
what you can do to prevent them. Go to
http://www.petplace.com/household-dangers-for-pets Did
you also know that some common human foods can be toxic to dogs?
Knowing which foods can harm your pet is very important, so I want to
share this information with you too. Go to:
Dangerous Foods - What NOT to give your dog Until next time,
Dr. Jon
P.S. On a lighter note, read about
dog names that fit your pet perfectly...
P.P.S. I want to make you smile today as well -
check out this video it is very cute. ....
|
posted Feb 17, 2010 6:23 PM by Angela Grujicic
[cross-posted from Dr. Jon's Dog Crazy Newsletter]|
If your dog had an accident or life-threatening injury, would you know what to do?
Often,
the right preventive measures can save a dog's life. You never know
when something can happen. No one ever "expects" an accident or
injury. That's why it's so important to be prepared.
First aid is important. So, what are the things you should know
that could one day save your dog's life? This is my Top 10 List of
things you should know in an emergency medical situation.
Here they are.
1. How an injured dog behaves - You need to know what to expect from an injured pet to prevent injury to yourself.
2. Vet phone numbers and address
- You quickly need to know who to call and where to go. Make sure you
also have numbers on hand for 24-hour emergency clinics that provide
after-hours emergency care.
3.
Phone number of a friend - In
some situations when a pet is lost or when you are trying to transport
an injured pet, you can't do it alone. You need a friend's help. Always
be prepared by having the phone number of an animal-loving friend you
can call for help.
4. CPR
5. Heimlich maneuver
6. How to bandage a wound
- This can be easy to do and it is important to protect a wound.
Bandaging helps to control bleeding and helps keep the wound clean.
7.
How to stop bleeding - Gentle pressure is the best way to stop bleeding.
8. Towel or blankets - They can be used to cover the wound or to help you pick up an injured pet.
9. Strong blanket - This can help you transport an injured pet.
10. Finances
- It is important to be financially prepared. You need to be able to
take care of your pet's medical needs. Many clinics do not allow
payment plans but do accept credit cards. One good way to protect your
pet is to consider a pet insurance policy.
I hope that this helps.
Until next time,
Dr. Jon
|
|
posted Feb 16, 2010 9:56 AM by Angela Grujicic
[
updated Feb 16, 2010 9:56 AM
]
[cross-posted from Dr. Jon's Dog Crazy Newsletter]
Do you dread giving your dog a bath? Is it a big soapy mess? Do you let your dog go without a bath for weeks because it is simply too much of a hassle?
Well, you're not alone.
My friend, Margie, has a little black and white Terrier named Chips who just HATES baths. Every time she mentions the word "BATH," he runs away and hides under the sofa. It takes the entire family to catch and bathe him. Margie even tried SPELLING the word. "It's time to give Chips a B-A-T-H," she would say. But Chips soon caught on and began running for cover at the very spelling of the word "BATH." (Who said dogs aren't smart?)
There are other challenges to washing your dog.
Big dogs can be more of a handful just because of their size. Dogs with thick coats are always more difficult to bathe because it's hard to clean through the fur, down to the skin.
In some climates, it can be too cold to wash your dog outdoors during winter months. This year is so cold, even South Florida is getting freezing temperatures! For some dogs the job is just too messy to be done indoors, but it must be done regardless. (Any time your dog starts to SMELL like a dog, it is time for a good bath.) Professional groomers are always a good option ... provided it's in your budget (which is not always the case -- especially these days). Regardless of HOW you do it, your dog still needs to be bathed regularly during cold winter months - and for most of us, that means bathing him indoors.
Here are some tips to help you bathe your dog indoors during cold winter months.
1. Never wash your dog outside if the weather is cold. This is particularly true for puppies - they have trouble regulating their body temperatures. Puppies should be at least four weeks old before they receive their first bath.
2. Before starting an indoor bath, make sure the house is warm. Turn up the thermostat a few degrees. Do your prep work. Have everything ready ahead of time - shampoo, towels, the works.
3. Start by combing and brushing out all mats. Otherwise, the water will turn the mats into solid masses, which will require clippers to remove. If your dog's hair is matted with paint, tar or some other sticky material, trim with clippers or soak the area with vegetable or mineral oil for 24 hours. (Consult a professional groomer for especially difficult tangles.)
4. Prep your dog. Put a drop of mineral oil in the eyes to protect them from suds. Some people use cotton balls in the ears. If you use cotton balls, make sure they're the right size for your dog's ears; if they're too small, they may slip down the ear canal.
5. Bathe your dog as quickly as possible. Be thorough and do a good cleaning, but whether you're using the tub or the shower get him in and out as soon as possible. Dry your dog immediately and as quickly as possible. Use a good pet shammy, lots of big soft towels, or a hair dryer set to a low setting. NEVER allow a wet dog to go outdoors in the winter.
I hope this will help make bathing your dog a lot easier this winter. Your dog will be happier and he will smell nice and clean. With a little preparation and the right tools it can actually be fun for both of you.
Everybody wins!
Until next time,
Dr. Jon |
posted Feb 14, 2010 8:08 PM by Angela Grujicic
[cross-posted from Dr. Jon's Dog Crazy Newsletter] How kissable is your dog? Does he have bad breath? Are his teeth stained? Well,
if you do not brush your dog's teeth it is very likely that your dog
has "doggy" breath, stained yellow teeth and/or swollen gums. If you brush you dog's teeth, I congratulate you. You are in the top 20% of pet owners in the country.
However, if you do not brush your dog's teeth, you are making a big mistake... Healthy
teeth and gums are important for biting and chewing, and even more
important for your dog's overall good health. Tooth and gum disease can
lead to serious health problems, including infection, kidney problems
and heart disease!
Brushing your dog's teeth makes a world of difference. In fact, the American Animal Hospital Association says
brushing your dog's teeth could add as much as five years to his life. So
if that's not something you are already doing, you really must start.
You should brush your dog's teeth at least three times a week.
We make our kids brush their teeth every night so they have healthy teeth and gums. Our dogs are no different.
Many of you have told me that you do kiss your dogs ... and that it would be a lot more fun without the "doggy breath." I hope this helps you. Until next time, Dr. Jon
P.S.
February is Doggy Dental Month and we are trying to increase the number
of people that properly care for their dog's teeth. This is truly a
small investment in your dog's health. |
posted Feb 14, 2010 8:06 PM by Angela Grujicic
[cross-posted from Dr. Jon's Dog Crazy Newsletter]
Since the current financial situation isn't expected to
resolve itself in the near future, we thought we would give dog owners
some easy and effective ways to save money.
Here are some tips...
1. Get Healthy
. Pet health should be taken seriously. Your dog needs exercise
to stay fit, just like you do. There isn't a 'magic pill' that can
replace preventive medicine, but you can provide healthy exercise for
your pets just by playing with them. Go outside and take your favorite
4-legged friend for a walk. This will help both you and your dog, and
it doesn't cost a thing.
2. Brush
. Get a doggy toothbrush and brush your dog's teeth. This is a
simple and effective way to keep your dog's overall health on the up
and up. It also helps prevent tartar build up and gum disease, such as
gingivitis.
3. Wash, Wash, Wash.
Bathing your dog at home will save you money. Bathe your dog with pet
shampoo and make sure you rinse thoroughly. You want to make sure you
use a pet approved shampoo because it will lessen the chance of
developing an allergic reaction. It is also very important to rinse
your dog thoroughly because if you don't, the suds left behind can
cause itchy irritating dry skin.
4. Get a Short Doo
. If you take your dog to the groomer ask them to cut your dog's
hair shorter. This will decrease the number of times you need to get
your dog groomed, and it will help keep your pet cooler during the
summer months. You can also trim your dog's nails at home instead of
going to the vet or groomer. We recommend the using a nail grinder.
It's a fast and easy way to trim your dog's nail safely and effectively.
5. Feed Right
. Next, check how much food you feed against what is
recommended by the manufacture and your veterinarian. You could be
feeding your dog too much, which could create problems - you could be
creating an overweight dog and your food will not last as long as it
could by just feeding the recommended amount. Also remember to
comparison shop. Just because you have bought your dog's food at the
same store for years doesn't mean they have the best price. Check the
food manufactures and pet stores websites often because they will often
email you special promotions and coupons if you sign up for their free
newsletter. In addition to their discounts, you can usually find
coupons in your local paper for many pet food brands.
6. Yearly Exam
. This is an important one. Take your dog in for a yearly
physical exam. The earlier you can catch any sign of disease the
better. The vet will also be able to inform you about your dog's
overall health and give the appropriate vaccinations. Before choosing
a vet, call around your area and ask different offices how much they
charge. You may be surprised at how much different offices charge for
the same services. Some offices even offer special discounts to new
clients, and clients that are in a difficult financial situation. You
can also ask your friends for veterinarians that they recommend.
Remember to be on the lookout for discount vaccination days with your
local county office and pet stores. At these discount days you can get
your yearly vaccinations and rabies shots for a fraction of the normal
cost.
7. Multi-use Toys.
Finally, look for good quality multi-use pet toys. Look for toys that
are long lasting so you don't need to replace them often.
Hopefully these ideas will spark some thinking about how
you can improve your dog's health and stay on a realistic budget. I
hope this was helpful.
Until next time,
Dr. Jon
|
posted Feb 9, 2010 6:26 AM by Angela Grujicic
[cross-posted from Dr. Jon's Dog Crazy Newsletter]
Black lights help you find urine spots in your home is this true or false?
TRUE! Believe it or not, black lights actually CAN help you find dog urine spots in your home!
Your dog may have an "accident" and urinate somewhere inside the
house without you even realizing it. It happens all the time. The next
thing you know, there's a strong, lingering urine odor that you just
CAN'T seem to locate, because at that point the "accident" is virtually
invisible. Black lights make these areas visible so you can treat
them!
Here's what happens: Black lights are fluorescent lights with a
special coating called phosphor. The black glass in a black light
blocks all visible light so that only the light hitting the phosphor
coating can be seen. Many things in nature contain phosphor, including
dog urine. So when a black light hits an area where a dog has urinated
the phosphor content in the urine glows in the dark. With a black
light, a urine spot that is invisible to the naked eye suddenly becomes
visible.
My staff and I feel strongly that black lights are one of the best
ways to find invisible urine spots in your home. But once you find
them, you must clean and treat the area to get rid of the smell.
Urine
spots require a special kind of treatment to get rid of the nasty odor.
And most products on the market today just don't work - trust me, I've
tried them all. Here's why. Urine is made up of several components, one
of which is urine salts. These urine salts are invisible, but no matter
how much you clean the spot they will never go away. These urine salts
cause the odor, and since they can't be removed they must be
"deactivated".
|
posted Feb 9, 2010 6:23 AM by Angela Grujicic
[cross-posted from Dr. Jon's Dog Crazy Newsletter] We
get a lot of questions about pet recipes. People want to know what
homemade dog food is good for a certain problem or they just want a
good basic dog food recipe. To be honest, over the years I've seen
health problems in some dogs that are fed a homemade dog food. It can
be difficult to properly balance a dog's nutritional needs in a
homemade food, and a poor diet can cause problems. Generally, we
recommend that dogs be fed a good quality premium dog food that is
properly balanced to meet all nutritional requirements.
But some owners still insist on making their own food. So in my
opinion, if you are going to do it, you should do it right. Also, if
your dog is sick and you are trying to get him to eat, a homemade food
recipe might come in handy.
If you decide to feed any of these
recipes to your dog, print the recipe and take it to your vet to
discuss it based on your particular dog's needs.
Here are our most sought after dog recipes:
Homemade Dog Food Recipe for Healthy Adult Dogs
Homemade Dog Food Recipe for Overweight Dogs
Homemade Dog Food Recipe for Dogs with Intestinal Disease
Homemade Dog Food Recipe for Dogs with Kidney Disease
Super Easy Dog Treat Recipes
You may even want to print one or two of these recipes
and keep them around in case you run out of food or if your dog will
not eat and you are trying to entice him to eat with something new.
Until next time,
Dr. Jon
|
posted Jan 8, 2010 8:27 AM by Angela Grujicic
[
updated Jan 8, 2010 8:28 AM
]
Hi Everyone:
We pulled Angel the six month old
Pit puppy on New Years Eve from Tiger GA. We cross posted to find an
adopter for Clyde, the male black pit still there and it looks as though we
have a home for him to.
However Angel broke with Parvo today and has been
rushed to the Seneca, Vet Hospital and is now under treatment for this. We also
already have an application for adoption on Angel to.
As most of you know we are a no,
kill, non profit, working solely off of donations.
So anyone who would like to help
offset Angel's vet care can donate three different ways, but please indicate it
is for Angel.
Mail a check to
Diamond in the Ruff
Rescue
P.O. Box 8328
Seneca, SC 29672
OR
Use the paypal button on our
website.
Or call in your credit card
number to the vet
Seneca Animal
Hospital
864-882-8747
Michelle Doneza |
posted Nov 10, 2009 11:48 AM by Megan Tindall
[
updated Nov 10, 2009 12:03 PM
]
Clemson's Best Pets
Calendar for 2010
is now available for purchase!
Hey Everyone! It's that
time of year again -- time to get your new copy of the Clemson's Best Pets
Calendar for 2010! We had some amazing entries this year, and the result was
a really awesome calendar. Calendars are currently in the printing process,
so CAWS members are doing pre-orders on Clemson's Library Bridge from 8am-4pm
Monday, November 9th - Friday, November 13th this week on Clemson's campus
cash or check only. Calendars are also available for sale on our website: www.clemson.edu/~CAWS
via our paypal account.
This year we have chosen to donate the
proceeds to Diamond in the Ruff
Rescue & Rehab, Inc. out of Seneca, SC.
They are a non-profit, no-kill rescue. Feel free to visit their website for
more information on all the great things they do for their animals: www.diamondrescue.org
Calendars will be $10.00
cash/check or $11.00 online with a credit card. This is a really great,
inexpensive holiday gift for any Clemson fan and/or animal lover. By giving
this small donation, you save lives, and receive a great gift in return! A
preview of the calendar is available on the CAWS website right below the
PayPal purchase button. Pass this on to your friends and family, the more
calendars we sell the more animals' lives we can change! Support the
"CAWS"! If you have any questions or comments, feel free to email
us! Brianne Campbell CAWS President btcampb@clemson.edu
(978)457-4919 |
|
