Good News, Bad News

There's so much good news for the animals, but sadly, there continues to be a lot of bad news, too. But this is not just a lament. We can all help -- easily.

The good news: Over the years, we've kept you informed of the many ways PAL has been helping animals: thousands of cats and dogs rescued and placed in loving homes; thousands of animals spayed and neutered; hundreds of dog and cat houses distributed; thousands of tons of pet food distributed; dog obedience rebates given to people who would not have been able to afford basic training without the rebate; humane education in the schools; and advocacy on every level to help animals be more valued and cherished.

The bad news: Even though there are thousands of groups like ours throughout the country and throughout the world, none of us can keep up with the numbers of unwanted and abandoned pets. Animal shelters and pounds in the U. S. euthanize roughly 5 million animals each year because people throw them away and there aren't enough homes for them all.

While advocacy has helped, some people still keep their dogs on chains. Some people still declaw their cats even though they know it's a horrible thing to do. (Luckily we are able to talk most people out of this barbaric procedure, but some still think their couch is more important.) Some people beat and even torture animals. The list of abuse is longer than a telephone book if you go to some of the animal abuse sites on the internet.

The good news: There are easy ways to help. National animal groups have email action alerts that they send out to people who want to receive them. These emails alert you to take some form of quick, easy action to help animals. You can google these groups or we can provide you with their email addresses. 

A few of the national groups are Fund for Animals, Doris Day Animal Foundation, ASPCA, and the Humane Society of the United States. Some of these groups have the letter already written for you -- all you have to do is fill out your information the first time, then on subsequent emails you just fill in your email address and hit "send." 

We also send out alerts and would be happy to add you to our list if you like. We and all these groups will unsubscribe you immediately if you no longer want to receive the alerts. 

The more letters and signatures a judge receives, the more inclined he or she is going to be about giving a stronger sentence to someone who horribly abused and/or killed an animal. Right now, most sentences are basically a slap on the wrist.

People who hurt, abuse or torture animals go on to hurt, abuse and torture people, especially children. So even if you don't care about the animals, please think about the kids who inherit this violence.

Law breakers know they won't suffer any consequences for their actions where animal abuse is concerned -- unless we make it our business to change things.

We all have to make calls, sign petitions, write letters otherwise little will change. It's so easy to do and takes so little time, yet can make a huge difference.

If you would like to start by receiving our action alerts -- easy, quick ways to help animals by making a call, signing a petition or emailing a quick letter -- email us at palmailbox@yahoo.com or call us at 530-273-7958 and we'll start sending emails to you right away.

Please don't turn away. People say things like "I don't want to know about that." That doesn't help. It only continues the abuse. Yes, it is painful to see and hear about these things, but animals will not be helped if we do nothing.

Please do whatever you can. Even if it means talking to a neighbor and convincing them that chaining, declawing, etc. is abuse. Or convincing them to spay and neuter their pets and allowing them indoors. Or being kinder to their pets. Offer to take a dog for a walk if a neighbor can't. 

Also, write (politely) to newspapers, radio and television stations and ask why they aren't giving more coverage to pet overpopulation, puppymills, etc. Occasionally someone will do a story about animal-related issues, but they are far and few between. Write to legislators to ask why they aren't doing more to help aniamls. We need to keep encouraging them to do the right thing.

We're sure you can think of many other ways to help. Animals do have feelings. They suffer pain, loneliness and heartbreak just like we do. They need us to help them.

Kids and Pets

Children and pets make a wonderful combination -- if children are taught how to act appropriately around animals. "Kids will be kids" is not the right attitude when it comes to humane treatment of our furry family members.

Children look to us for guidance. While we're training the new family dog, we need to do some "training" where the kids are concerned, too. Let them know that cats and dogs are feeling, sensitive beings who don't like being hurt. Help kids understand that being gentle, kind, and loving is the way to go. 

Many experts recommend getting pets after the kids reach age 6. Your child should be able to exhibit self-control and understand you when you're explaining rules about how to be a good guardian.

Adopting adult animals is usually a better choice than adopting kittens or puppies if you have very young children. Young animals are fragile, take more time and care, and are prone to bite or scratch more readily than an adult animal.

You are a role model for your children. They will behave toward the pet the way that you do. If they see that you are patient, kind, loving, they will be, too. When faced with a pet problem, get help, but also stay calm. You are teaching by example.

The best dogs for kids are those who receive (from you) socialization, humane training, exercise and attention; who are given adequate food, water, shelter, veterinary care and are sterilized; who are allowed indoors; and who are shown love and affection.

Help your child see the world through your pet's eyes. Explain that even the most docile animal has limits, and all animals need to be treated with caution and respect. You should always supervise all pet-child interactions. 
Pets need time away from the kids. Tell children to leave pets alone when the pets are eating, sleeping, or taking a breather from all the exuberance of an active household. Provide pets with a place of their own where they can retreat from the kids. 

Pets may become over stimulated. Teach children to heed warning signs (such as hissing, lip curling, retreating, growling) that the pet wants to be left alone. Explain how some pets may feel threatened when stared at, cornered, or hugged.

Some dogs get excited and may even become dangerous when children scream and run. They may also become overly excited during games of tug-of-war or wrestling, possibly injuring a child in the process. Teach children not to play these games with dogs.
Encourage kids to be loving caretakers, too, by helping to feed, exercise, groom and love pets. But don't expect them to take over this job. Animals aren't a tool for teaching your kids responsibility. Ultimately, even if you get a dog or cat "for the kids," you are the main caregiver. The pet is your responsibility, but kids should take an active part.

If you encounter problems, don't hesitate to contact us. If we can't help, we can refer you to someone who can. PAL: 530-273-7958.

Movie Must-See

Benji Off the Leash is entertainment for the whole family. Kids and parents alike will love this movie. Audiences in early screenings gave the film a 97 percent approval rating. One person said, "I had no idea I would like this movie so much."

Not only is it a great movie, but it sends a message of compassion. Pet columnist Julia Szabo says, "If you want to raise humane, ethical kids, take them to see this movie." Adults will also benefit from this film. Colby, the teenage star of the film, shows courage and compassion as he helps animals who are neglected by his father, in the process, tackling important issues such as puppy mills and the struggle and triumph over family violence. 
Joe Camp, the producer, writer and director of the movie, adopted Benji from a shelter. So the movie also sends a message that you can get a great dog at a shelter.

If Benji Off the Leash is a success, Camp will donate a portion of the movie's proceeds to animals shelters around the country. 

For more information about the movie, it's background, and reviews, go to www.benji.com.

Health Problems of Purebred Dogs

The United Kingdom is currently working on the largest survey of the health of purebred dogs. Over 70,000 people have been contacted. The results may show specific health problems not yet recognized.

The most common health disorders in purebreds are canine hip dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy, deafness, short toe anomaly, epilepsy, liver disease, dilated cardiomyopathy, autoimmune diseases, and renal failure.

Instead of buying a purebred dog, go to the shelter to adopt a great friend.

Source: www.animalradio.com (Dr. Pitcairn's Complete Guide to Natural Health for Dogs and Cats, by Richard Pitcairn, DVM, has an entire chapter on purebred pets' health problems.)

ADOPT A SHELTER OR RESCUED PET SOON!

Myths and Facts

Myths still manage to control people's thinking about spaying and neutering. The facts are that sterilizing animals prevents health problems later on, eliminates undesirable behaviors such as fighting, spraying, and roaming, while keeping good behaviors in tact. Dogs do not become less protective if they are altered.

Of the 30 million or so cats and dogs who are born every year, about 1 in 10 actually finds a permanent, loving home. The rest die. Death comes in the form of cruelty, disease, starvation, poisoning, accidents, or overcrowded animal shelters that are forced to euthanize animals because they must make room for all the others coming through the doors every day.

Nearly 55% of dogs and 70% of cats entering U. S. animal shelters or pounds are killed.

Of the millions of pets who end up in shelters or pounds, only about 4% of cats and 14% of dogs are reunited with their families.

Five to 10 million stray dogs and cats live on U. S. streets. 

About 1 to 2 million pets are stolen or taken from families each year. Only about 10% are reunited with their people. The rest end up in research labs, dog fighting rings, puppy mills or other abusive and cruel situations.

Source: The Journal of the National Humane Education Society: P. O. Box 340, Charles Town, WV 25414-0340; 304-725-0506; www.nhes.org; information@nhes.org.

Outside Dogs

There are very few dogs who actually prefer living outside. Most of them would rather be a part of the family. 

Dogs are "pack" animals who crave the notice of their guardians -- we are part of their pack. They need to be part of our lives and activities, whether it's lying next to us if we're reading, watching TV or doing some work, going for a walk with us, or watching us garden.

Outside dogs are NOT more protective. In fact, they are so starved for attention, that they will probably walk up to a stranger for some attention.

Why do chained dogs bark? They are bored and lonely. That's why dogs run away or dig up the yard. They want something to do -- someone to be with. But people who don't understand this will chain their dog so he or she won't run away or become destructive. This sets up a pattern of frustration for the people involved and sadness and rejection for the dog.

 Why have a dog (or cat, for that matter) if you never spend time with the pet? If you adopt a dog to be an outdoor dog, you've made a decision that there will be no great closeness between you and the animal. No matter how many times you say you'll be outside with him or her, no matter how good your intentions, the dog will not get the attention he or she needs and deserves. 
Cruelty doesn't necessarily come in the form of outright abuse and neglect. It can be as simple as ignoring an animal that needs affection and attention.

Please DO NOT adopt a pet unless you can make a commitment of love, attention, and the necessary finances to pay for any kind of care that may arise.
Yes, animals do have feelings. They are not just dumb wind-up toys. They deserve our kindness and compassion.

Featured Website

Animal Nutritionist Pat McKay believes raw meat must be at least a component of feeding our pets. Her website: www.patmckay.com is an excellent source for information. 

Raw food, she says, is alive with enzymes and friendly bacteria, something pets can't get from highly processed food. 

She believes that parasites and bacteria aren't a concern because carnivores are not bothered by them. In fact, a dog can bury a bone, according to McKay, dig it up weeks later, and eat it without harmful effects. This apparently is because of their highly acidic systems. If you're concerned, though, she has a formula for killing off "bad" bacteria with the use of food grade hydrogen peroxide and water.

Still, McKay advises common sense when handling raw food. For example, don't leave raw meat sitting around for more than 15-20 minutes. Keep cutting boards properly cleaned. 

Visit her website if you'd like to read articles about her views, testimonials, or to download a free Raw Food Diet e-book. If you have questions, you can contact McKay at 800-975-7555 or email her at patmckay@gte.net. 

We can also mail you a short article about her views. If you'd like to receive it, give us a call (530-273-7958) or email us at palmailbox@yahoo.com.

Vegetarian Dogs

While some people insist that dogs are carnivores or omnivores, others say that they can be mostly vegetarians.

An article about Veggie Dogs in Whole Dog Journal states that the belief that there are certain proteins that can be found only in meat is a fallacy. Tony Buffington, DVM, Professor of Veterinary Clinical Sciences at the Ohio State University Veterinary Hospital, says "All meat and vegetable proteins are broken down in the gut into amino acids, and it's the amino acids that are absorbed. It doesn't matter where the proteins come from."

Some dogs can be allergic to meat, so a vegetarian diet could be helpful. Also, vegetarian meals can help dogs suffering from inflammatory bowel disease, according to Jean Dodds, DVM, a canine nutritionist. 

Some people claim their dogs are healthier and live longer because of a vegetarian diet. A 27-year-old border Collie in England, named Bramble, is a vegan. Tykie, a 24-year-old Terrier mix from Traverse City, Michigan has been a vegetarian since he was 8 weeks old.

If you're considering a veggie diet for your dog, research carefully and don't change your pet's diet abruptly.
The following manufacturers make a vegetarian kibble for dogs: Avoderm, Harbingers of a New Age, Natural Life, Nature's Recipe, Petguard, and Wysong.

If you'd like to read the entire article, let us know and we'll mail it to you.

Source: www.whole-dog-journal.com. This is an excellent publication to subscribe to. (You can get more information about vegetarian diets for dogs at www.vegetariandogs.com.)

Facts About Feral Cats

• Feral cats are cats who grew up without human socialization, or stray cats who have lived outside long enough to revert to the wild.
• Feral cats usually cannot be tamed and are most content living outside. They often live in family groups called colonies.
• Stray cats are cats who have been lost or abandoned, and have joined a feral colony. Stray cats can usually be re-homed.
• Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) is the nonlethal 
  population control plan in which entire colonies are humanely (and painlessly) trapped, vaccinated, eartipped, and neutered by veterinarians.
• Kittens and cats who are tame enough to be adopted are sterilized, then placed in homes. Adult cats are returned to live out their lives under the watchful care of volunteers.
• TNR works. Cat populations are gradually reduced. Behaviors, such as the yowling of females or the spraying of toms, are virtually eliminated. The cats can live healthy, safe and peaceful lives in their territories.

Source: Alley Cat Allies, www.alleycat.org. 

If you have feral or stray cats in your neck of the woods, please call us. We'll pay to have them all spayed or neutered, regardless how many you have. We can also help with vaccinations, worming, and earmite treatment. If you need help with food and/or cat houses, we can provide that as well. We're at 530-273-7958.

Blackie's House

When Blackie showed up at Melva and George Jones' house, he needed accommodations. He liked the Joneses and he liked living there, but he needed a house of his own. So PAL provided one through our Woof Over My Head program. 

While the program was originally started for dogs, it quickly followed that cats needed them, too.

It's hard to know how some animals end up homeless, but it's great when kind people take them in.

George has been so nice about calling us over the years to let us know how Blackie is doing. Blackie did have allergies at one point. We suggested Nettles and that did the trick! No more allergies.

While Blackie doesn't like to be picked up or petted for too long, he loves being with George when George is outside. He follows him around, talks to him, and likes his company.

Blackie's own house is near a sheltered part of the main house, about 4 feet off the ground. He has used his house, but now has his eye on the house that George and Melva live in. George said that he is welcome, so soon Blackie won't need his PAL house anymore -- he's moving into the BIG house. Since Blackie is a sprayer, hopefully he won't want to do that indoors. But if he does, George says that's no problem, they'll just clean it up.

It's always so heartwarming to hear a good story about a cat or dog. Who knows where Blackie came from, but he ended up in a loving, accepting home.

If you need a cat or dog house, or know someone who does, give us a call: 530-273-7958.

PAL provides new or recycled pet houses to pets in need through our Woof Over My Head housing program. If you would like to build your own pet house (this is a fun activity to do with your kids), you can get plans on our website: www.pal.nccn.net or we can mail you simple plans.

Help for Our Loss

Animals are our friends and the bond between us is not easily broken. When they leave us, it can be a heart- wrenching experience. We may feel that our loss is unbearable, the pain simply too great.

We should never feel ashamed or guilty about our grief. Those of us who realize how very special animals are -- angels here on earth -- know that they are a significant, meaningful part of our lives.

People often feel that losing a pet is as painful as losing a human friend or family member. That's not a terrible thing. You should feel what you feel. If you're devas- tated, let yourself feel the desolation. Because our feelings for our pets are so strong, you may go through the same grieving process as for a person: shock, anger, bargaining, depression and finally acceptance. This is normal. 

Not everyone shares our feelings, so talk to those who are sympathetic. If you have no one that you can turn to, you can always call us at PAL. We are happy to listen and understand.

We've given you resources in past newsletters. If you no longer have the information, don't hesitate to call us if you want it again.

Here are some more resources for a grieving guardian. They offer either support, help/counseling, an opportunity to memorialize pets, and offer information about memorial urns or candles.

www.angelashes.com
www.aplb.org
www.furryangel.com
www.humanesociety.com
www.ilovedmypet.com
www.paws2heaven.com
www.petloss.com
www.pet-loss.net
www.petownerscounseling.com
www.rainbowsbridge.com
www.thistledown.info

Give yourself time to grieve fully and completely. You don't have to be "over" your friend's passing in a week or even a month. Sometimes it takes much longer. However long it takes -- it's OK.

That One Place In Our Hearts

They will not go quietly,
The cats who've shared our lives.
In subtle ways they let us know
Their spirit still survives.
Old habits still make us think
We hear a meow at the door.
Or step back when we drop
A tasty morsel on the floor.
Our feet still go around the place
The food dish used to be.
And, sometimes, coming home at night,
We miss them terribly.
And although time may bring new friends,
And a new food dish to fill,
That one place in our hearts
Belongs to them . . . and always will.

by Linda Barnes 

Harmful to Pets

There are things pets should never eat. Some can make them very ill, others can cause their deaths.

We all know about the dangers of anti-freeze. Be sure it's never around. Its sweet taste is enticing but deadly to cats and dogs. Use a less toxic anti-freeze just to be on the safe side.

During winter, be sure to wash de-icing salts off your dog's paws.

The insecticides in many over-the-counter flea and tick control products can be toxic to pets.

Rawhide doggie chews may carry Salmonella bacteria, which can infect pets and people. The chews can also cause choking, as can squeaky toys and any play-things with removable parts.

If you don't know already, chocolate is toxic to dogs and cats. Other human food to keep away from pets includes: seeds and pits of apples, apricots, cherries, mustard plants, peaches, and avocadoes. Don't give them macadamia nuts, walnuts, mushrooms, onions (even onion powder), raisins, or grapes either. 

Also poisonous: Mistletoe, poinsettias, rhododendrons, daffodils, dieffenbachia, geraniums, hollies, irises, most lilies, morning glories, oleander.

Swallowed string, rubber bands and dental floss can cause intestinal blockages or strangulation. Ribbons, tinsel, and glass ornaments can also be dangerous. 
If your pet does ingest something he or she shouldn't, contact your veterinarian immediately.

Success Stories

Like so many pets who are abandoned by their people, Jazz wasn't sure what was in store for her. But she didn't need to worry. When Jazz was adopted by Bobbie Powell of Auburn, she got a wonderful home. It's always great when loving, kind people like Bobbie come along to adopt a cat or dog.

Tortoiseshell calicos tend to be real characters, so it's no wonder one of her favorite spots turned out to be a sink. It was her cute, easy-going, playfully impish disposition that attracted Bobbie to Jazz in the first place.

It was a purrfect match!

The Crowders of San Leandro were visiting Grass Valley when they happened to pass our adoption site. They didn't realize they were going to be adopting someone that day. But Pops (as they named him) was just too cute and too appealing to leave behind. The Crowders decided they had to make him a part of their family.
The picture here is of Pops and some of the other family members. It was Christmas and they were forming their own "tree." Very cute, don't you think?

The Crowders took Pops through obedience training, lavished lots of love on him, and in general spoiled him rotten. Which means he ended up in a VERY good home! 

PALs for Adoption - click dogs, cats for current pets available

Halloween Tips

With Halloween only a couple of months away, consider these suggestions from the North Shore Animal League. You can cut this out and post it somewhere to remind others.

• Keep cats and dogs inside your home, especially on Halloween night. Some people can and will play mean tricks on animals and sometimes harm them.

• If your pets are outside, keep them supervised and close to your side.

• When walking your dog on Halloween, try to avoid large crowds of children so your dog is not frightened by the costumes. Also, try to avoid having your dog lick the sidewalk where eggs or shaving cream have dropped.

• Chocolate is poisonous to animals. After checking the candy for your children, put it out of reach so your pets will not be tempted to also have a taste. If you know that your pet has eaten a large quantity of chocolate, call the animal poison hotline: 888-232-8870.

• Keep all Halloween decorations out of reach. Pets can chew, destroy and sometimes get tangled in them. 

• Try to keep your pets in a room away from the door of your house. The door will be constantly opening through- out the day and night. You do not want your cat or dog to run out the door.

• Keep your pets away from jack-o-lanterns. Pets are often attracted by the light and could get burned or tip them over causing a fire to start.

• Although costumes are worn on Halloween and meant for people to enjoy, pets are quite often scared by them. Be considerate of your pets' feelings. 

• Remember: Pets are a part of the family. They should be able to enjoy this time of year, too!

Source: www.nsal.org

In Memory of . . . 

Cleo Beesley,"for 19 purrrfect years," from Louise & David Beesley
Kati Bigarani, from June Bigarani
Zak Boze, beloved German Shepherd, from Kathe & Rich Gresham
Mitzi Callagy, "a loving companion," from Carol McGraw
Buddy Cardinale, companion and best friend of Vince & Patty Cardinale, from Peggy & Larry Metz
Sassy, Honey, Juno & Misty Egger, from Diane Egger
Mocha Frank, from Susan Frank
Dorman Gill, from Harvey & Amelia Davis
Chuck & Amos Graydon, from Shirley Slavonic
Rust Bucket, Rudolph & Brownie Hargens, from Lola Hargens
Loveta Hornsby, from Beverly Riddle
Loveta Hornsby "fondly remembered by us as a good neighbor, teacher and friend, from Helen & C.D. Steele
Loveta Hornsby, from Jack & Fay Wales
All my precious pets, from Patricia Irish
June Jackson, from Dale Jackson
Coco Mandeville, beloved kitty, from Louise Mandeville
Kelly Griffiths Nunez, from Bob & Marilyn Rixon
Baron Petersen, "the big red Dobie gentleman," from MaryJane Petersen
Misty & Muffin Rumble, from Thomas Rumble
Copper Seery, from Joy Greene
Domino Shaver, from Pat & John Abbey
Alex Sundberg, from Mary Sundberg
Buttons Sutter, from Barbara Sutter
Gabbie Trembley "our best buddy," from Jake & Hallie Trembley
Lady & Winston Wallace, from Susan Wallace

In Honor of . . .

Skippy Hanzlik, from Brad Hanzlik
All my precious pets, from Patricia Irish
Molly, Herc, Pops & Scoot Wallace, from Susan Wallace