Archive for November, 2010

This post is authored by Amy of Dog Rescuer’s Life

I have a lot of people tell me “Oh I can’t foster. I would get too attached.” Fair response but think of it this way, if you are able to foster a dog you are saving a dog from dieing in a shelter. You mean to tell me you would rather have a dog die instead of shedding a few tears when they get adopted? Never thought of it that way did you?? But that is the reality, without foster homes the dogs can’t be saved. Fostering is nothing more then “baby sitting” for an extended period of time… a week, a month, ok sometimes a year but that is rare. And honestly fostering can be a bit selfish… selfish because in brings so much joy into your life. To watch a dog who has had a dark past blossom and grow and turn into a happy, healthy dog who loves people and isn’t afraid any more. Then when they get adopted you receive emails and pictures of your foster dog living the life and being spoiled. They are now the center of someone’s world.. what could be better?

You can’t foster because your apt., condo association, housing community won’t allow it or you have the legal limit of dogs for your area or you work long hours. TOTALLY understand but you can be so helpful to a rescue by simply educating others of the need of fostering or by helping people understand adoption should be their first option. You can volunteer on the weekends walking dogs, you can volunteer your talents (gathering donations, making fliers, driving dogs to and from the shelter, vet office, foster home to adopter, you can conduct home visits, maintain a website, take pictures, network, run reference checks on adopters, help with adoption events or fundraisers, the list goes on and on.). Doesn’t matter if you are 8 years old, 80 years old or anywhere in between you can help!

With the holidays coming up the number of dogs in shelters will go up and adoption will go down, way down. That means now is an important time to get started with helping local shelters or rescues. Here are some ideas:

* Have a chance jar at work or home where loose change is added. When the jar is full or you feel their is enough in the jar donate the money to a shelter or rescue.
* When you go to the store and buy your dog or cat something like a toy, a leash, a bed, a bag of food, kitty litter buy an extra one and donate it.
* Read the newspaper? Good! Collect newspaper and donate to local animal shelters or rescue.
* Your dog or cat has toys, beds, collars, leashes that are no longer used. Donate them to a local rescue or shelter. For a dog that has nothing, used is better then not at all.
* Doing some fall / spring cleaning and you have old towels, blankets, comforters, sheets, etc. that you are going to throw away? Don’t! Donate them to a shelter or rescue.
* Tragically your animal has passed on and you now have left over medicine, flea prevention, heart worm prevention, toys, beds, leashes bowls, etc. Donate them!
* You don’t have time to collect things, walk dogs, etc. OK, fine then just call up a rescue/shelter or go on line and donate. Hey even $5.00 means a new toy for some homeless lonely dog.

Regardless of what way you are helping, it is very meaning full to those who have dedicated their lives to rescue and to the animals. And maybe you can encourage friends or family to help out too!

For more of Amy’s writings, visit http://dogrescuerslife.blogspot.com/

This post is authored by Adopt-a-Pet.com

Although there are millions of pets in shelters needing homes each year, many pet-owners-to-be don’t think about pet adoption when they’re looking for their new four-legged friend. Often the case is that many people simply are not aware of how many great pets are available at shelters. They might also have the misconception that pets in shelters have something wrong with them. In fact, most pets end up in shelters not because of any problem with pet behavior, but because an owner died, moved, or simply didn’t have the time or money to care for the animal. In some cases animals are lost and never found by their owners. These animals are healthy and very eager to please. Rescued pets are wonderful- just ask anyone who has one.

Another stereotype facing shelter pets is that some people are seeking purebred animals and believe these breeds are not available in shelters. Nearly a quarter of all animals in shelters are purebred. Often someone buys an expensive purebred animal and then attempts to breed that animal to recoup their money, the outcome is that these animals are not placed in homes, and end up in the shelter.

Here are five more reasons shelter pets are win-win for owner and pet.

1. When you adopt an adult animal, you can see his/her size and temperament. This helps ensure that the pet is right for you and your family.

2. It feels great to know you have saved an animal’s life and everyone you meet will give you kudos for that for years to come.

3. Adopted pets are very loyal and know they have been given a new home. They understand the stress of moving from place to place and when they are introduced to routines they will really open up and appreciate your choice to adopt.

4. Adopting a pet can be an important lesson to teach your children– both about the value of life, and also about civic responsibility and even recycling- in this case recycling a living and loving animal into a new home.

5. Choosing a mixed breed animal can help avoid many of the genetic health problems that have developed in purebred animals due over breeding and inbreeding.

For more tips about pet adoption, visit Adopt-a-Pet.com.

Thanksgiving leftovers are probably filling up your fridge, so here’s a great recipe for you to try when you need to free up some storage space while treating your dog to something special.

A Turkey Omelet
1 egg
2 tablespoons mashed potatoes (NO SPICES!)
1/2 cup cooked veggies, chopped small (NO SPICES!)
1/4 cup cheese
1/2 cup cooked turkey

Heat up a bit of olive oil in a medium sized pan over medium heat. While the pan heat, beat together the egg and potatoes, then spread in the pan. Place the turkey and veggies on top of the egg mixture and cover. Simmer until the egg cooks and the top mixture warms; just be sure the egg is all cooked through! Then, sprinkle the cheese on top and let melt. Remove and cool. Then cut into pieces and store in the refrigerator. Serve as a special treat for the next few days. Enjoy!

Can’t you just smell the turkey roasting?

On Thursday, most of us will gather together with family and friends to give thanks over delicious foods that people look forward to all year long. Yes, Thanksgiving is really a special holiday.

However, if you’re including your dog in on the fun, be sure that you’re making the right choices when it comes to his diet and health. Here are some tips and guidelines to follow if your dog comes begging at the table during Thanksgiving dinner:

First off, if your dog has a sensitive stomach or other health issues, don’t give into the begging. Keep him restricted to dog food only but if you want to treat him, give him a dog biscuit or another natural dog treat that he’s allowed normally. Other natural treat substitutes that are great for dogs include raw carrot, a little bit of cheese, or freeze dried beef. Fresh pumpkin right from the can (just a spoonful!) can also be a great treat for your dog to enjoy, as can a little bit of natural, low sodium turkey broth. Avoid anything with lots of seasoning, garlic, salt, or onion, as these can cause digestive problems.

If you want to give your dog a little bit of turkey, first you’ll need to get rid of the skin. Turkey skin is high in fat and can be hard on the digestive system, plus, it may contain spices or seasonings used in cooking that can cause tummy trouble. Instead, choose a bit of breast meat and remove all the skin. Then, cut the turkey in to smaller pieces and feed a little at a time to your dog as a treat. Or, you can mix in a bit of shredded turkey with his regular kibble.

As for side dishes, remember that dogs have delicate digestive systems and need to be fed foods that are free of the spices we typically use. Onions and garlic can sometimes cause problems for dogs, so avoid feeding your dog any amount of side dish that uses these ingredients. Some plain cooked veggies (like carrot or broccoli) can be a nice treat. Pass on any gravies or sauces, as these too can cause issue.

Finally, Thanksgiving can be a time to overfeed your dog so be sure that you’re doing your part to reduce your dog’s risk of obesity. Feed him proper portions and don’t over indulge in people food. Keep it as a treat only. Remember – having an overweight dog means a higher risk of many common health problems, including pet cancer. Make sure that you’re doing everything you can to keep your dog properly nourished and within a healthy weight range. Have questions? Consult your vet.

And as always, have a Happy Thanksgiving!

Your dog is like one of the family, so wouldn’t you want to make sure that

Here are five easy things that you can do to ensure that your dog is always in the best of health, no matter what stage of life he or she might be in. From puppy to a dog in his golden years, these tips for good pet health are sure to pay off:

1.) The Vet is Your Best Resource. When it comes to caring for your dog, it’s important to work with a veterinarian. Not only can your vet provide you with sound, professional advice, but he or she can also educate you on other matters that concern your dog’s health. Ask lots of question and make sure that your dog sees the vet regularly. Get tests done to see what health risks are associated with your pet. In the long run, it’ll be much better to practice good preventative care than to only visit the vet when your pet falls ill.

2.) Vaccines Are Key. When visiting your vet, be sure to ask about vaccinations and what the best process might be for your pet. Every dog is different so in some cases, your dog may need (or not need) a vaccine. Be sure to ask you vet plenty of questions and see what vaccines are most appropriate for your dog’s specific needs.

3.) Read the Label. When you give your dog a treat, food, or even a toy, it’s always smart to read the label. Make it a habit to read labels on everything your dog comes in contact with. Know what ingredients are harmful to your pet and be very sensitive of potential allergens. When possible, use all-natural or organic pet supplies.

4.) Good Nutrition Goes a Long Way. Just like you, your dog requires a very specific diet in order to stay healthy. He needs all of the valuable components: vitamins, minerals, digestive enzymes, protein, carbohydrates, fats, and water. Be sure that your dog is getting what he needs by giving him high quality dog food that isn’t packed with fillers and preservatives. Also, you may want to consider supplementing his diet with Dinovite to ensure that he’s truly getting everything he needs. The same thing goes for treats: natural and preservative/filler-free is best.

5.) Get Out and Play! Your dog needs his exercise, as well as companionship and interaction. Spend time with your dog and give him cuddles. Run around. Go for walks. Play. As a result, your dog can stay fit, happy, and healthy.

What are some other ways that you care for your dog?

Did you know?
-Cancer accounts for nearly 50% of all disease-related pet deaths each year
-One in four dogs die of cancer.
-Approximately 1 in 4 dogs develops a tumor of some kind during his lifetime.
-Just like in humans, cancer can occur in any part of your dog’s body.

The facts are real. The numbers are real. Pet cancer is an unfortunate problem that can touch any and all of our lives. This month, be sure that you do your part in the fight against pet cancer. Participate in Pet Cancer Awareness Month activities in your community, spread the word, and donate. There are many ways that you can help dogs in need.

Do Your Part: Have Your Pet Checked
If you notice that your dog has abnormal swelling, sores that don’t heal, weight loss, poor appetite, bleeding, offensive odor, difficulty eating, fatigue, lameness, or difficulty performing normal functions like breathing or urinating, it’s incredibly important for you to see your veterinarian. Many of these symptoms can be early signs of pet cancer.

Do Your Part: Donate to the Blue Buffalo Foundation for Cancer Research
There is a way for us to help find a cure for pet cancer. Through research and treatment options, we can start fighting back. Help the Blue Buffalo Foundation in their quest for a cure by donating today. You can check out their website for more details on how to make a cash donation or how to purchase pet cancer awareness products that can help support their cause.

Do Your Part: Ask Your Veterinarian
Educate yourself this month on the risks of pet cancer. Talk to your doctor about your dog and find out whether or not he or she has certain risk factors. Everything from breed to lifestyle can help shed light on whether or not your dog is at risk of developing cancer.

Do Your Part: Volunteer Your Time
Seek out an animal shelter or pet cancer charity near you and volunteer. Ask if they need help. Give your time to helping this organization move their mission forward.

How are you doing your part to help fight pet cancer? Share your stories with us in the comments.