Then and Now

When the Pet Adoption League started in Grass Valley fifteen years ago, roughly 4,000 animals died each year in the local shelter.

Now, with a second shelter, and the enormous work of so many animal lovers in this community, fewer than 140 were euthanized in 2005. 

 On a national level, an estimated 15 million animals died in shelters fifteen years ago. That number has dropped to 4 to 5 million. Still a horribly large number, but a marked drop. 

One of the reasons fewer unwanted animals are dying needlessly is that so many people have gone into rescue work. There are thousands of shelters and rescue groups helping animals in the U. S. Yet we still can't keep up with the numbers of animals people casually throw away. Even though dedicated volunteers work tirelessly to place every animal, shelters are often full to overflowing.

Spaying and neutering is a big reason why there are fewer homeless animals. More people are aware it is the right thing to do, and they get it done. If they can't afford it, they call groups like PAL.

People are also more receptive to rescuing animals. At one time, it was a common misconception that animals in shelters were either rabid, or had behavior problems, or were undesirable for one reason or another.

The animals are usually there through no fault of their own. Some reasons we've heard why people abandon their pets: we are moving; we are going on vacation and don't want to pay a pet sitter; we don't have time to attend dog obedience classes and the dog misbehaves; and, (this is true) we changed the decor in our house and the cat no longer matches the furniture. The rationalizations are endless and heartbreaking for rescuers who try so hard to place every pet in a permanent, loving home.

Our local media (newspapers, radio, and cable TV) are great about helping animals. But the national media rarely focuses on the plight of animals. 

The numbers of animals who die in our shelters could be brought to zero if each of us would do just one thing each week to help. 

 Pet Housing

 For a number of years PAL has operated its "Woof Over My Head" program, building and distributing hundreds of homes in a variety of sizes and colors to outdoor dogs and cats in need.

Special thanks to this winter's volunteer construction crew, which included: Ken Walker, Ken & JoAnn Basile, Darrell and Katie Torry, Jim Mote and Erik Enger, and Hayden Navo with Cheryl & Ed Fisk (and a little help from sister, Hannah Navo).  And a grateful tip of the paint brush to artful paint slappers Carol Gaynor and Dan Melius.

In addition to building new houses, PAL acts as a clearinghouse for people with unused dog houses in good condition and for those who need shelter for their pets. Thanks to all of you who donated pet shelters to our program this year!

PAL also provides simple plans for constructing houses. A medium-sized house can be completed in a few hours using a 4' x 8' sheet of 1/2" plywood and a few 2" x 4"s. It is an enjoyable project when shared between a parent and child. Hayden Navo's house was part of her church's public service project. Katie Torry's was for her school. Over the years, schools and youth groups such as the Boy Scouts, the Girl Scouts, Big Brothers/Big Sisters, and several middle school classes have completed hundreds of dog houses for our program.

Pets are always happier and healthier if they are allowed to live indoors, and older cats and dogs, kittens and puppies, and certain small or short-haired breeds aren't suited to the outdoor life at all. But if indoor accom- modations aren't possible, make sure your pet has a comfortable, warm, dry shelter away from wind and weather.

For more information about house plans properly sized for your pet (one size does NOT fit all!), visit our website: www.pal.nccn.net and click on the link for dog house plans, or contact us directly: 530-273-7958.

A Pet Housing Success Story!

Longtime volunteer and feral cat feeder Darrel Smith recently moved to a new neighborhood and discovered many stray cats lived there, too. The good news is that they were being fed, AND they all had ears notched, which meant they were already spayed and neutered. 

One stand-offish cat adopted Darrel's yard as his home, but wouldn't come near the house. When winter approached, Darrel took one of PAL's "Woof Over My Head" cat houses and set it up in his yard. 

His yard-guest watched warily from the distance, until Darrel finished and backed up a few feet. Then the cat trotted inside, turned around and peeked out at Darrel, as if to say, "Thanks! This is great!"

For more information about our free feral cat "trap-neuter-return" program, call us at 530-273-7958.
Or, if you can adopt three cats who are at one of our colonies, please let us know. They are taming up and would like to have a cozier home.

Gifts NOT to Give Your Pets

Colds: If you and your family have one going around, it's a good bet your pet will get it, too. Vitamin C can help dogs and cats ward off the virus.

Fungal Infections: Ringworm and athlete's foot can be transmitted from you to your pet.

Bacterial Infections: Streptococcus bacteria are the most common. They can cause sore throats and infections of the ears and urinary tract. 

Use common sense around pets so you don't transfer these ailments to them. Be sure to see a pet health practitioner right away if they become ill.

Source: 137 Astonishing Health Secrets for Your Pet, by Robert S. Goldstein, DVM and Susan J. Goldstein

 AAARF FurBall March 12th

The Auburn Area Animal Rescue Foundation (AAARF) is holding its first annual FurBall, Sunday, March 12th from noon until 4:00pm to highlight the many adoptable pets in their care. Admission is free and there will be delectable desserts and raffle prizes. 

The event will take place at AAARF's Isabelle Torsak Memorial Adoption Center, 11940 Masters Court, Auburn (just west of Hwy 49, opposite the BelAir Shopping Center). 

Phone: 530-887-5577, email: aaarf@usamedia.tv, website: wwww.aarf.petfinder.org . 

Formal attire is NOT required for humans or pets -- unless you are a "tuxedo" cat.

Disaster Prep for Pets

Natural disasters such as floods or wildfires can separate dogs and cats from their families. Be sure to include your pets in any emergency evacuation plan. They are part of the family, too (as if you need reminding!).

Emergency housing: many disaster relief shelters don't admit pets. Find out now if any motels or hotels in your area accept pets as guests. Keep a list of kennels and veterinarians who might board your pet. Make arrangements with friends or relatives for temporary pet housing.

"Pets Inside" sign: put signs at your front and back doors to alert rescue personnel to the presence of pets, in case you are not home when a disaster strikes. Date the signs and take them down if you evacuate the pets yourself so rescue personnel won't needlessly put themselves at risk.

Identification: your pet should wear ID at all times. Your phone may not work after a disaster, so list a relative's number as well. Talk to your veterinarian about microchip identification. Keep several close-up photos and a record of your pet's size, weight, and special markings. You can use this for "lost" flyers, or to identify you as the guardian when the pet is found.

Emergency Kit: a week's supply of food and water, lightweight food bowls, can opener, portable carriers or crates, copies of vaccination certificates, pet medications and prescriptions, leashes, collars, harnesses, portable litter box and litter, blankets, paper towels, and familiar toys.
May you never have a use for any of this information.

This article was adapted from SF/SPCA's Our Animals, Winter 2005, www.sfspca.org. 

OUR SECRET

We have a secret you and I, 
That no one else shall know
For who but I can see you lie, 
Each night in fire glow?

And who but I can reach my hand 
Before we go to bed,
And feel your warmth and 
Stroke your silken head?

And only I walk woodland paths 
And see ahead of me,
Your form racing with the wind, 
So young again and free.

And only I can see you swim 
In every brook I pass.
And when I call, no one but I 
Can see the bending grass.

                           Author Unknown 

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

Pet's Bill of Rights

 We have the right to be full members of your family. We thrive on social interaction, praise, and love.

 We have the right to stimulation. We need new games, new toys, new experiences, and new smells to be happy.

 We have the right to regular exercise. Without it, we could become hyper, or sluggish . . . or fat.

 We have the right to have fun. We enjoy acting like clowns now and then; don't expect us to be predictable all the time.

 We have the right to quality health care. Please stay good friends with our veterinarian.

 We have the right to a good diet. Like some people, we don't know what is best for us. We depend on you.

 We have the right not to be rejected because of your expectations that we be great show dogs or show cats, watchdogs, hunters, or babysitters.

 We have the right to receive proper training. Otherwise, our good relationship could be marred by confusion and strife - and we could become dangerous to ourselves and others.

 We have the right to guidance and correction based on understanding and compassion, rather than abuse.

 We have the right to live with dignity ... and to die with dignity when the time comes.

  from PetEducation.com                                 

In Memory of . . . 

All the pets that perished during the hurricane and its aftermath, from Roy & Johanna Harper
All the homeless animals, from Joanne English
Bailey Abbey, from John & Pat Abbey
Zack Ackerman, from Maryalyce & Karsten Hansen
Maya Adams, from Margaret Adams
John Allen & his beloved canine companion, Otis, from Chelsea Fox Robinson
Corky Anderson, from Edna Anderson
Cira & Keesha Arnold, from Edward & Cherie Arnold
Bubba Babao, "My wonderful pound dog," from Donna Babao
Rosie Baltake and her beloved pet, Woody, from Joe & Susan Baltake
Tippi Baltake, "Our sweet Tippi, now together with her beloved companion, Hitch," from Joe & Susan Baltake
Gladys Bartz, from the Pet Adoption League
Jackson Bateman, from Bob & Dawn Bateman
Alice Beedy, from Shirley Beedy
Cleo, Madison, Chewie & Schatzi Beesley, from Louise & David Beesley 
Linda Boom, "in memory of a dear friend and animal lover. Thanks for your laughter, smiles, and our Ollie kitty." from Jackie Johnson & Mike Powell
Sierra Brock, "A good dog loved for many years by the kids at Brock Family Wee Care," from Jake & Hallie Trembley
Mugsy, my little sweetheart. How I loved you. Mama. from Beverly Brown
Mugsy Brown, from Mary Dreifuss
Mugsy Brown "one great cat," from Pam & Chuck Fisher
Mugsy Brown, from Sue Nepstead
Mugsy Brown, from Terry & Maxine Robinson
Alex Brumm, from Barbara Brumm
Ebony, "a sweet cat who 'adopted' my heart," from Lesley Buffington
Scampi, HoneyBear, Suzie, JR, Rachel & Melissa Carter, from Carolyn Carter 
Rebel Childers, from Becky & Brian Childers
Bitsy & Hallie Cruser, from Jane Cruser
Mandy Currier, from Marolyn & George Currier
Dolly Datlik, from Casey & Tigger Croft
Skoshi Devine, from Sandy & Tom Devine
Kenji Dierkes, from Katherine & Soji Dierkes
Milo Dunkle-McKean, from the Heinzen-Unholz Family
Honey, Juno, Sassy, and our little Misty. "God bless. I miss you all so much." from Diane Egger
Tulip Elser, from Kandice Kelley & John Peterson
Gretchen, Ginger & Rusti Fleming, from Elizabeth Fleming
Storm Fournier, from Mary & Jim Stradinger
Storm Fournier, from Anne Wright
Dottie Gale, from Erin Hay
Dottie Gale, from Audrey Young
Nitro Garbers, from Richard & Isabel Garbers
Nicholas Gibson, from Mary Dreifuss
Nickie Gibson, from Cleo & Gerry Gibson
Nicholas Gibson, from Sue Nepstead
Arthur Gonterman, from Leona Gonterman
Pat Grant, "a true animal lover," from Terry Laughlin
Charles K. Graydon, from Dorothy A. Graydon
Gregor's Miss Ellie, from Helen Avery
Chelsie Groom, "our beloved Chelsie," from Lynda & Jim Groom
Tucker Hanford, from Melinda Prewitt & Pam Lindquist
Sammie Hanson, from Kathleen Hanson
George Hazelwood, from Mr & Mrs John Hazelwood
Betty Hill & Barney, from Ralph Hill
Daisy Holroyd, from Muriel Holroyd
Smokey Holtz, from Nancy Holtz
Eddie Horton, from Linda & Bob Lucchesi
Lee Houts, from Vicki Valentine
Pipi & Pepe Irish, "We love you and miss you," from Patricia Irish
Tootsie, Chipper & Joey Johnston, from Ruth Johnston
Max & Axel Porteous-Kelly, from Phyllis Porteous & Nik Kelly
Clyde & Pepper Kerr, from Jim & Kay Kerr
Katie Kutcher, from Marge Kutcher
Joan Lancaster, from Mary Dreifuss
Joan Lancaster, from Sue Nepstead
Abigail Landsburg, from Melinda Landsburg
Shadow Lapierre, from Fran Yordan
Callie Levien, from Peter Fulton Foss
Callie Levien, from Fred & Harriet Levien
Josie Lewis, "our beloved Sheltie," from S.E. and Midge Lewis
Chance Lucchesi, from Bob & Linda Lucchesi
Thor & Molly Mansfield, from Diane Mansfield
Barney McGrady, from Kay McGrady
Fluffy "white kitty" McNallen, from Stephen McNallen
Dillon Miskimen, from Charlene Miskimen
Amber & Oliver Montavon "and our many animal friends, past and present," from Leo & Kathleen Montavon
Chloe Montierth, "Our beloved dog," from Flo and Garry Montierth
Kelly Griffiths Nunez, from Marilyn & Bob Rixon
Woggles Palmerton, from Sandy Palmerton
Sweetie Picker, from Nancy Picker
Amy Quintana, "a special dog," from Corrine Quintana
Sweetie Reaney, from Julie Reaney
Ashley Robinson-Phillips, from Joanna Robinson & Utah Phillips
Willie Rose, from Marianne & Bill Rose
Groucho Simpson, from Larry & Nanette Simpson
Bill Sinay, from Deborah Wills
Russ Smith, from Pat Grace
Tommy Two Stevens, from Nancy Stevens
Dolly St George, from Helen St George
Scooter & Murphy Sundberg, from Mary Sundberg
Buttons Sutter, from Barbara Sutter
Penny Symes, from Stephanie & Peter Symes
Ron Treadway, from Dick & Jan Townsend
Bucky Valle, "our little buddy," from John & Carolyn Valle
Sassie Walker, from Leo Walker
Scooter, Molly & Winston Wallace, from Susan Wallace
Mattie Ward, from Isabell Thomas
Ginger Wells, from Karen Wells
Florence Wills, from Bill & Paula Newton
Fritz & Jennie Wilshusen, from Carol Ann Wilshusen
Lucille Wingo, from Nancy Young

In Honor of . . .

Hurricane Katrina Survivors, from Maryalyce and Karsten Hansen
All our wonderful pets, from Rene Kronland, MD
Raleigh Anthony, from Sandra Truman
Anna Drummond, from Jackie Johnson & Mike Powell
Mike & Anna Drummond, from Nancy Young
Chance, Skippy, Brandy, Copper, Halle, & Tana Eslinger, from Debbie & Larry Eslinger
Peter Foss, from Ben Foss
Joyce Haire, "Happy Birthday!" from Shirley Nibbelin
Carmine & Salvador Hauser, from Jean & Mike Hauser
Jeanne Ingram, from Roy & Teresa Jennings
Amii, Snupes, Tummies & Suzi Irish, "I love you all!" from Patricia Irish
Luna Keckley, from Paul & Peggy Keckley
Rosalie Kimberlin, from Lisa VonBiela
Bubba & Moo Moo Marozik, from Sandra Truman
Katie Petersen, from Maryjane Petersen
Kim Pike, from Deborah Wills
Tessa & Shadow Raintree-Hegwer, from Criss Raintree-Hegwer
Al & Tim Ross, from Deborah Wills
Dottie Schmidt, from Clay Schmidt
Minnie Scotten, "Happy Birthday!" from Midge Scotten
The Lake Oswago Sinays, from Deborah Wills
Jacqueline Smith, from Carol McGraw
Bug, Squeek, & Wag Trahern, from Sandra Truman
Rebecca, Shaun & Emily Welch, from Deborah Wills

 Can I Go Home Now?

 My family brought me home cradled in their arms.
They cuddled me and smiled and said I was full of charm.

They played with me and laughed with me and showered me with toys.
I sure do love my family, especially the girls and boys.

The children loved to feed me, they gave me special treats.
They even let me sleep with them, all snuggled in their sheets.

I used to go for walks, often several times a day.
They even fought to hold my leash, I'm very proud to say.

They used to laugh and praise me, when I played with that old shoe.
But I didn't know the difference between the old one and the new.

The kids and I would grab a rag, and for hours we would tug.
So I thought I did the right thing when I chewed the bathroom rug.

They said I was out of control, and would have to live outside.
This I did not understand, although I tried and tried.

The walks stopped, one by one they said they hadn't time.
I wish that I could change things, I wish I knew my crime.

My life became so lonely in the backyard on a chain.
I barked and barked all day long, to keep from going insane.

So they brought me to the shelter, but were embarrassed to say why.
They said I caused an allergy, and then kissed me goodbye.

If only I'd had some classes, as a little pup.
I wouldn't have been so hard to handle when I was all grown up.

"You only have one day left," I heard the worker say.
Does this mean a second chance? Will I go home today?

                                                                by Sandi Thompson

No More, Please!

No more lonely cold nights or hearing that I'm bad.
No more growling belly from the meals I never had.
No more scorching sunshine with a water bowl that's dry.
No more complaining neighbors about "noise" when I cry.
No more hearing "shut up," "get down," "get out of here!" 
No more feeling disliked, only peace is in the air.

Euthanasia is a blessing, though some still can't see
Why I was ever born, if I weren't meant to be.
My last day of living was the best I ever had.
Someone held me very close, I knew that she was sad.
I kissed the lady's face, and she hugged me as she cried.
I wagged my tail in thanks, then closed my eyes and died.

by an anonymous shelter worker, Massena, NY

Create a Legacy

PAL's long-term mission can only be accomplished if we remain strong financially. A bequest to PAL in your will can create a legacy that continues to help the animals long after you are able to do so.

You may wish to make a gift funding a specific one of our programs, such as spay/neuter; or make a gift of a specific part of your property; or an unrestricted gift in the form of a specific dollar amount or a percentage of your estate. You and your legal advisor may have other options in mind.

If you have bank or stock brokerage accounts you can arrange a bequest to PAL without revising your will (thus avoiding the appointments and fees that might entail). Ask your financial institution about "pay on death" or "transfer on death" provisions. These arrangements can be made conveniently by telephone or by mail at no charge.

If you choose to include PAL in your will, be sure to use our full name: Pet Adoption League, Inc., located in Grass Valley, CA. Our Federal Tax ID is 68-0262007.

Matching Donations

Many employers will match your donation to the Pet Adoption League. You'll be helping animals TWICE as much! This often applies to retired employees too! Ask your employer about matching funds. 

United Way

If you participate in a United Way giving campaign, you can designate the Pet Adoption League, Grass Valley, CA as the beneficiary of your United Way gift.

"The time is always right to do what is right." Martin Luther King, Jr.

One by One

One by one, they pass by my cage,
"Too old, too worn, too broken, no way.
Way past his prime, he can't run and play."
They shake their heads slowly and go on their way.
A little old man, arthritic and sore,
It seems I am not wanted anymore.

I once had a home, I once had a bed,
A place that was warm, and where I was fed.
Now my muzzle is grey, and my eyes slowly fail.
Who wants a dog so old and so frail?
My family decided I didn't belong,
I got in their way, my attitude was wrong.

Whatever excuse they made in their head,
Can't justify how they left me for dead.
Now I sit in this cage, where day after day,
The younger dogs get adopted away.
When I had almost come to the end of my rope,
You saw my face, and I finally had hope.

You saw through the grey, and the legs bent with age,
And felt I still had life beyond this cage.
You took me home, gave me food and a bed,
And shared your own pillow with my poor tired head.
We snuggle and play, and you talk to me low,
You love me so dearly, you want me to know.

I may have lived with another person longer,
But you outshine them with a love so much stronger.
And I promise to return all the love I can give
To you, my dear person, as long as I live.
I may be with you for a week, or for years,
We will share many smiles, you will no doubt shed tears.

And when the time comes that God deems I must leave,
I know you will cry and your heart, it will grieve.
And when I arrive at the Bridge, all brand new,
My thoughts and my heart will still be with you.
And I will brag to all who will hear,
Of the person who made my last days so dear.

Author Unknown