• PAL Thrift Store Closing
• What About the Cats?
• Shelter Needs Help
• Safety Kit for Your Pet
• Stressed Out? Spend Time...
• Tips for Renters with Pets
• Quiet Please!
• Where There's a Will.....

• The Prolific Cat

• California Dog Breeders

• No Declawing

• Solar Cats

• Federal Issues Need Your Help

• In Honor Of

• In Memory Of

• Grief Support

PAL Thrift Store Closing

July 20 will be the last day that the PAL Thrift Store will be open.

Donations to the thrift store will be accepted throughout June but in July we will take only those items we believe will sell quickly.

After the store closes, we will continue to accept pet carriers, cages, traps, pet food, pet bedding, pet supplies and such.

We are currently seeking office space where we can store the pet food and supplies we distribute, the cat and dog houses we give away, and house the traps, carriers, etc., that we loan out. If you know of a nice 600 - 800 sq. ft. location, please let us know. We are open to suggestions.

The store was a great way to meet many of you -- we have made so many wonderful friends. We owe a huge debt of gratitude to all the fantastic volunteers who have helped with the thrift store, too. Obviously we couldn't have run it without them.

We really appreciate all the good quality items that have been donated over the years. Many of you have already offered to sell your items yourself through yard sales or on eBay and give us the proceeds. Thank you. 

We appreciate so much all your support. We will continue this newsletter, of course, and will keep you abreast of what we are doing and how things are going with our many pet programs.

Our fellow furry community members, we are sure, really appreciate your continued help on their behalf!
If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to reach us at 273-7958 or at pal_95945@yahoo.com.

All of the present Pet Adoption League programs will continue as usual even though the store is closed. 

There are not enough homes for all of them. Please spay and neuter your pets.

Call the Pet Adoption League if you need financial assistance: 273-7958.

Please print The Prolific Cat and post it at work or on a bulletin board or wherever you think would be a good place, where people will see it. Thank you! Click here for a printable version

As many of you know, Judy has lived at the our thrift store for a few years. If she were hoping to have a more traditional home, she got her wish.

Nancy Picker signed on as a PAL volunteer a few months ago. When we mentioned to her that Judy would be looking for new digs, Nancy took her in. When Judy was at the store, she had her favorite customers, yet she wasn't fond of everyone. But she has really bonded with Nancy. We have had nothing but fantastic updates on her progress. Judy seems VERY happy. We all miss her, but know she couldn't have found a better home!

Eddie is now living with Mike and Anna Drummond. When the resident cats saw Eddie, they must have wondered why we decided to adopt a dog! While his size is daunting, his good nature seems to be winning everyone over.

He likes having a people-size bed to sleep on, and he LOVES stretching all the way out on the couch! (When he does, there's hardly room for a person to join him!) 

Like Judy, Ed seems very happy in his new traditional home.

Shelter Needs Help

The Nevada County Animal Shelter on McCourtney Road needs your help.

Can you foster a few underage kittens or puppies for a week or two? Pet Adoption League will supply food, food bowls and litter. For REALLY young ones, PAL will supply milk replacer formula and bottles. The shelter will then take them back and find homes for them.

If you can't take in any fosters, perhaps you could donate food, litter, bowls, litter boxes, or milk replacer formula? Please contact Ruth Rassmussen at the shelter to find out exactly what is needed: 273-2179 or email Ruth at violet328@juno.com.

Please remember that the shelter can use your help in other ways, too. Call them at 273-2179 for more information.

It's a good idea to have a first aid kit for your pets. Keep the pet safety items in a convenient place but out of reach of children. 

• Absorbent cotton -- to help stop bleeding
• Non-stinging iodine solution (dilute with water) to cleanse wounds
• Medical tape -- to use as bandage adhesive
• Gauze bandage rolls -- can be used on wounds and also as an emergency leash
• Gauze pads -- to be used as a compress
• Sharp scissors with rounded safety tips
• Tweezers -- to remove thorns, splinters & ticks
• Antihistamine for insect bites
• First aid ointment
• Cotton swabs -- to cleanse pets' ears or to apply ointment
• An extra collar with tags and leash
• Photos of your pets (in case they get lost)
• An extra copy of your pets' medical records
• Your veterinarian's name, address, phone number, and emergency hours
  
  From: Best Friends Animal Sanctuary Magazine. You can subscribe by going to www.bestfriends.org; or writing to them at Best Friends Animal Sanctuary, Kanab, Utah 84741-5000; or calling 435-644-2001; or faxing them at 435-644-2078.

There's nothing better than coming home to a house full of wagging tails and wet kisses after a long day at work. And getting out for brisk walks is another great side effect of living with a dog. 
Even just petting cats and dogs helps lower blood pressure and reduce your heart rate. 
Researchers have found that cardiac survival rates were higher for patients living with animal companions and that elderly people with pets made fewer visits to the doctor.

Source: Good Medicine, a publication of Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine. If you would like to receive their very informative magazine, write to PCRM at 5100 Wisconsin Ave., N.W., Suite 400, Washington, DC 20016; or call 202-686-2210; or fax 202-686-2216. Visit their website: www.pcrm.org.

It's sometimes difficult to find a place to rent if you have pets. Consider these ideas to help you:

• Get references from veterinarians and previous landlords that mention how well-behaved your animals are.
• Show proof of licensing, neutering, obedience training and anything else that proves you are a responsible animal guardian.
• Have a prospective landlord meet your animals.
• Offer to pay a pet deposit or small monthly charge.
• Express your willingness to have the landlord visit you and see that the property is well cared for.
• Offer to sign an agreement that covers any damage done by your animals.
• Check with local humane societies -- some have lists of complexes that accept animals.
• When you go to meet a potential landlord the first time, make a great impression by washing your car and dressing as if for a job interview.
• You may have good luck dealing with homeowners who have an attached apartment for rent; they are less likely to have a blanket "no pets" policy and more likely to negotiate.

From: PETA's Animal Times. For membership and subscription information: PETA, 501 Front Street, Norfolk, VA 23510; 757-622-7382 (telephone); 757-622-0457 (fax); www.peta.org; info@peta-online.org.

Psychologists says that if you fight in front of your children it not only frightens them and makes them insecure, but it also changes who they are.

Pets also have a negative reaction to yelling and screaming. John C. Wright, PhD, an animal behaviorist and author of Ain't Misbehavin' says pets can become nervous and even terrified of such behavior. He recommends solving problems in a civil tone, and, if necessary, taking an anger management course.

Sometimes it's the extra little touches that really add to your quality of life. Although our house was built almost fifty years ago, it does have a pretty nice passive solar aspect. However, we found that it needed just a little something more to help distribute the warmth. Our solution was a pair of Solar Cats.

Brand and Model Choices: First we acquired a single unit from the local branch of American Solar Power Cat Appliances (ASPCA). We chose a generic version instead of a name brand. The generic versions are much cheaper and more widely available. They are just as effective and aesthetically pleasing, and often more durable than name brands.

We opted for the smaller Kitten model. At first blush, this seems like a poor bargain. The initial setup cost is at least as much as (possibly more than) the full-size Cat model for a unit only one tenth as big. However, there are other advantages. Although it seems counter-intuitive, the Kitten model actually disperses more energy than the full-size model.

It comes with the full array of potential operating profiles, but no preprogramming. This is both a benefit and an obstacle. On the downside, programming Solar Cats is difficult, and results are spotty at best. (At worst, they can be very spotty, particularly on carpets.) However, on the plus side it is often easier to program a Kitten model, because there isn't any existing programming in place that requires modification, overrides, or deletion. Within a few months, the Kitten model self-upgrades to the full-size Cat version.

Performance: We also learned that the Solar Cat is much more than a heat transfer device. It's a multi- function system, with a surprisingly diverse set of features. For example, the Kitten model doubles as an interactive entertainment center. It's also useful for dusting under and behind furniture in hard to reach places.
Our unit includes a household security macro. It patrols the premises, warning of birds, deer, or any other intruders visible from the windowsill. It also includes a timekeeping function, and will discreetly notify us when it's mealtime.

The Kitten model is much smaller than the full-sized Cat model, but puts out more energy.

This is all well and good, of course, but what about its intended function as a solar heat transfer system? Well, it works great! The Solar Cat is entirely automatic. It seeks out the areas of greatest passive solar heat in front of windows, and then deploys and absorbs the heat into a dense filament storage system. From time to time, it will turn over as needed to expose a new portion of the heat collection surface.

When it is fully loaded, it will automatically relocate to a cooler portion of the house to disperse the accumulated heat. It has a built-in bias in favor of areas frequented by humans, such as chairs or beds. So it efficiently concen- trates the warmth exactly in the areas where it is most needed and appreciated.
Options & Extras: In addition, the Solar Cat can be used as a personal heating device. The full-size models typically weigh about 10 pounds, although some may be twice that size. They fit nicely on a lap, chest, or across feet. You can also bury cold hands in the filaments for quick spot warming.

The units come with short or long filament options. The long filament version can collect more solar heat, but the filaments require more maintenance. However, as an added bonus, in dry weather you can rub the unit briskly and produce small amounts of electricity. The long filament versions are most effective for this, also. With a long filament model on your lap on a dry winter night, you could probably produce almost enough light to read by, if you have very good eyes . . .

Solar Cats act as holistic health care devices. Studies show that regular contact with a Solar Cat reduces stress levels, lifts depression, and increases general health and longevity.

Maintenance You do need to understand that the Solar Cat is not itself solar powered. It is necessary to provide some fuel for it, and it does produce some emissions. However, the fuel is inexpensive and easy to apply, and the emissions are 100 percent organic, nontoxic, and biodegradable.

The units include auditory warning systems to let you know if there is any malfunction in need of correction. Different models have different volume and tone settings, and some trigger more easily than others. We have not yet found the control settings for this feature. In normal operation, the units are generally very quiet. When they are working most efficiently, they may emit a low rumble, but it is not unpleasant.

Passive & Active Solar: The Solar Cat is a modular system, and you can add as many units as you want. This should be done carefully, however, since some units are incompatible with others. We went back to the ASPCA for a second module, and ours proved fully compatible. In fact, we discovered that having multiple units produces a kind of catalytic interaction (so to speak). Introducing the second unit invigorates the first to increased energy output.

With proper care and maintenance, a Solar Cat can last more than ten years, and some reach or exceed twice that. The best longevity, best performance, and lowest maintenance are achieved if the unit is kept indoors at all times. 

Would we recommend Solar Cats? Absolutely! We have come to depend on ours, and wouldn't ever want to be without at least one. They spread palpable warmth from room to room, the kind of warmth that makes a house a home.

Reprinted with permission of Home Power Magazine and Shari Prange shari.prange@homepower.com.

Mourning Dove Hunting (HCR 275) Introduced by Representative James Hansen (R-UT) would extend the mourning dove hunting season and would ensure that young doves are orphaned during their nesting season. Please contact your Senators and ask them to oppose HCR 275. Tell them that mourning doves are not overpopulated, they do not cause nuisance problems, and their tiny bodies yield little, if any, meat for hunters. These gentle birds should not be used simply for target practice.

American Horse Slaughter Prevention Act (HR 3781) Introduced by Representative Connie A. Morella (R-MD), this bill would prohibit the slaughter of horses for human consumption and the trade and transport of horse meat and live horses intended for human consumption. Please contact your Representative and ask him or her to cosponsor HR 3781. Tell him or her that America's horses should be protected so they do not end up on dinner plates in other countries.

How to Reach Your Representatives Look up your Senators and Representative and find their direct contact information by visiting the Fund for Animals Legislative Action Center at www.fund.org/action/lac. The Fund for Animals recommends a phone call or fax since mail is still slow in Washington, D. C. You can call the switchboard numbers and ask to be connected to their offices. Senate: 202-224-3121; House of Representatives: 202-225-3121.

To learn more about the Fund for Animals, visit their website: www.fund.org. To receive their very informative publication, contact the Fund at 200 West 57th Street, New York, NY 10019; 212-246-2096; Fax: 212-246-2633; fundinfo@fund.org. (While you're at their website, find out how you can receive free information for teachers.)

Previous law defined a "breeder" as anyone who sells or gives away more than 50 dogs in a given year, leaving any backyard breeder with fewer than 50 animals a year untouched by the law. AB 161 redefines "dog breeder" as anyone who has sold or given away all or part of three or more litters (or 20 or more dogs) in a year. It requires them to adhere to health and care standards for dogs, requires adequate exercise and socialization with other dogs as well as with humans, and makes it unlawful for a breeder to primarily house a dog on wire flooring.

Source: The Fund for Animals Magazine, Spring 2002

England, Denmark, Slovenia, Scotland, Netherlands, Portugal, Ireland, Finland, Spain, Wales, Belgium, Brazil, Italy, Norway, New Zealand, France, Sweden, Australia, Germany, Austria and Switzerland.

Source: www.declawing.com

Bob Goldstein, DVM and Susan Goldstein, who have 30 years of experience treating animals, say that disease and organ failure are not inevitable. Here's their "longevity program" to help your pets stay "young."
Watch what they eat. If your older animal has been eating commercially prepared foods that have been cooked to death, they will be lacking in many nutrients. Instead, choose a diet of raw food or a commercially prepared, cooked one that includes raw ingredients and vital and essential nutrients (you can add these). Select foods that are naturally preserved and contain whole ingredients rather than "meals" and by-products. This high-quality diet should be easy to digest, and for senior animals, it should be lower in fat and protein.
Supplement this nutritious diet with Ester C, Vitamin E, Vitamin A, Co Enzyme Q 10, Glucosamine, organic flax seed oil for dogs, and marine oil for cats.

Juice up their diet. As well as a high-quality diet, senior animals must have fresh, organic juice. 
To make the juice, combine two organic carrots and three stalks of celery with five sprigs of parsley and one clove of garlic. Give it to them daily. It will strengthen their immune system by supplying much needed vitamins, minerals and antioxidants.

Don't get them hooked. Avoid potent drugs that mask symptoms of pain. These drugs tax and suppress the immune system and weaken the liver, kidneys and lungs. Instead, ask your veterinarian to recommend herbal, homeopathic and other complementary therapies designed to alleviate your animal's condition. 
Consider the alternatives. There are a number of alternative therapies -- acupressure, acupuncture and chiropractic, for example -- that can effectively treat the symptoms experienced by older animals.
Senior Formula, by Anaflora (www.anaflora.com), can be added to drinking water and helps to minimize the physical and emotional difficulties of old age. 

Keep them in top shape. Exercise and plenty of fresh air keep a body healthy. Favorite games, toys and healthy treats can keep her busy and happy. A dog can spend hours gnawing on a raw knucklebone. Not only does this help clean her teeth, it provides mental stimulation and entertainment she will love.
The power of love. Lavish lots of love and attention on your pet. Regular interaction also helps maintain a positive attitude and a healthy state of mind.

Combining all these ingredients will have a major impact on how your animal companion looks and feels. 

Source: Animal Wellness magazine. To subscribe to this excellent magazine: 419 George Street North, Peter- borough, Ontario, Canada K9H 3R4; 888-466-5266; www.animalanimal.com. 
To get subscription rates and a complimentary copy of Dr. Bob and Susan Goldstein's exceptional newsletter, call 800-622-0260.

Supplements for Senior Pets

Dr. Bob Goldstein recommends these supplements for senior cats and dogs:

In Memory of . . . 

Teddy-O, from All of Us
Cassie & Scarlett Baltich, from Barbara Baltich
Sandy Beebe, from Nancy & Bill Lindgren
Viola & Dave Benvie, from Audrey Mehas
Autumn Brenner, from Nancy Brenner
Harley Ditson, from Peter Fulton Foss
Kiri Drummond, from Anna & Mike Drummond
Molly Dyer, from Joan & Jim Dyer
Honey, Sassy, Juno & Misty Egger, from Diane Egger
Chelsy Farnell, from G.G. & Great Grandpa
Bob Fleming, from Theda Martins
Charles Graydon, from Dorothy Graydon
Charles Graydon, from Shirley Slavonic
"Our sweet Sam, our beloved companion for 14 years,"
from Lynda & Jim Groom
Geek Inch, from Rebecca Inch Partridge
Tigger Ingram, "My companion for over 20 years," 
from Jeanne Ingram
Tigger Ingram, from Roy & Teresa Jennings
Lucky Keckley, "Our beautiful Lucky," from Todd Keckley
Chap & Fuzz Narveson, "I miss you," from Mark Narveson
Gretchen Nepstead, from Mary Dreifuss
Gretchen Nepstead, from Cleo & Gerry Gibson
Gretchen Nepstead a sweet, faithful companion for 
13 years, from Sue Nepstead
Metro Parks, for 18 years of love, from 
Jim & Marge Folger
Misty Rumble, from Tom Rumble
Sarah Specht, "Our beloved rescued Brittany," 
from Ray & Donna Specht
Katie Stockle, "We miss you Katie," from Marra Swan
Beaslee Boy Tillotson, from Joyce Tillotson
Ready Wells-Jacobs, from Isabell Thomas
Alan Yanney, from Arlene Yanney

In Honor of . . .

"All my precious animals," from Patricia Irish
Shadow (Cano) Asher, from Cathy Asher
Lauren Drutz, from Lois Ann & Shorty Abraham
Honey, Sassy, Juno, & Misty Egger, from Diane Egger
Jay & MaryAnn Merrill, from Valerie Crawford & 
Daniel McIlhenny
Molly & Ebony Narveson, from Mark Narveson
Shirley Nibbelin, "Happy Birthday!" from Joyce Haire
Max & Oliver Rose, from Anne Rose
Bart & Chi-Chi Scutero, from Jim & Lynn Scutero

Grief Support

As many of you know, we are there for you if you need to talk about the passing of your pet. UC Davis also has a support line: 916-752-4200 or 800-565-1526, Monday-Friday 6:30 pm to 9:30 pm. They will listen, answer questions, and can send you free materials. If you would like to visit their website, go to www.ucdavis.edu/ then search for petloss.

They offer these suggestions when a loved one dies:

• It's OK to feel profound sadness and grief

• Give yourself permission to have a reaction, whether it be crying, numbness, irritability, or feeling hopeless

• Reach out -- don't be alone with your grief

• Talk only with people you feel understand you

• Get plenty of rest

• Even if you're not hungry, eat something nutritious

• Drinking alcohol or using other drugs can intensify feelings of depression

• Take one day at a time

These are some books UC Davis recommends:

Coping with the Loss of a Pet by Christina M. Lemieux
Living Through Personal Crisis by Ann Kaiser Sterns
Maya's First Rose by Martin Scott Kosins
When Your Pet Dies: How to Cope with Your Feelings 
by J. Quackenbush & D. Graveline

For children, they recommend:

Lifetimes by B. Mellonie and R. Ingpen
Oh, Where Has My Pet Gone? by Sally Sibbett
Pet Loss: A Thoughtful Guide for Adults and Children
by H. A. Nieburg & A. Fisher
The Tenth Good Thing About Barney by Judith Viorst

If you choose to do this, be sure to use our full corporate title: "Pet Adoption League, Inc." Contact your lawyer, or simply write: "I give to the Pet Adoption League, Inc. the sum of _______ Dollars (or, if insurance policies, land or other property, please describe).

If you would like more information, you can reach us at P. O. Box 3303, Grass Valley, CA 95945; 530-273-7958; or pal_95945@yahoo.com. 

Thank you for considering us.