Hi, I am Augie. This is my blog about animals and their guardians, homeless pets and happy endings. About rescue, companion animal health and well being, and information for people who want to make a better world for animals. Please join me in conversations while we share our stories, advice and tips. Love Augie
Saturday 22 December 2012
Pound Dogs: A Conversation Between a Puppy Miller and a Dog Re...
Pound Dogs: A Conversation Between a Puppy Miller and a Dog Re...: It's been an emotional week for Kimberley Thomas of Kismutt Rescue (see here , here and here ) and then last night she got a phone call: ...
Saturday 8 December 2012
A shelter manager's letter: What happens to dogs relinquished to a shelter-Pets are not Christmas gifts
The shelter manager's letter:
Our society needs a huge wake-up call.
As a shelter manager, I am going to share a little insight with you all - a view from the inside, if you will.
Maybe if you saw the life drain from a few sad, lost, confused eyes, you would change your mind about breeding and selling to people you don't even know - that puppy you just sold will most likely end up in my shelter when it's not a cute little puppy anymore.
How would you feel if you knew that there's about a 90% chance that dog will never walk out of the shelter it is going to be dumped at - purebred or not! About 50% of all of the dogs that are "owner surrenders" or "strays" that come into my shelter are purebred dogs.
No shortage of excuses
The most common excuses I hear are:
We are moving and we can't take our dog (or cat).
Really? Where are you moving to that doesn't allow pets?
The dog got bigger than we thought it would.
How big did you think a German Shepherd would get?
We don't have time for her.
Really? I work a 10-12 hour day and still have time for my 6 dogs!
She's tearing up our yard.
How about bringing her inside, making her a part of your family?
They always tell me: We just don't want to have to stress about finding a place for her. We know she'll get adopted - she's a good dog. Odds are your pet won't get adopted, and how stressful do you think being in a shelter is?
Well, let me tell you. Dead pet walking!
Your pet has 72 hours to find a new family from the moment you drop it off, sometimes a little longer if the shelter isn't full and your dog manages to stay completely healthy.
If it sniffles, it dies.
Your pet will be confined to a small run / kennel in a room with about 25 other barking or crying animals. It will have to relieve itself where it eats and sleeps. It will be depressed and it will cry constantly for the family that abandoned it.
If your pet is lucky, I will have enough volunteers that day to take him / her for a walk. If I don't, your pet won't get any attention besides having a bowl of food slid under the kennel door and the waste sprayed out of its pen with a high-powered hose.
If your dog is big, black or any of the "bully" breeds (pit bull, rottweiler, mastiff, etc) it was pretty much dead when you walked it through the front door. Those dogs just don't get adopted.
If your dog doesn't get adopted within its 72 hours and the shelter is full, it will be destroyed.
If the shelter isn't full and your dog is good enough, and of a desirable enough breed, it may get a stay of execution, though not for long. Most pets get very kennel protective after about a week and are destroyed for showing aggression. Even the sweetest dogs will turn in this environment.
If your pet makes it over all of those hurdles, chances are it will get kennel cough or an upper respiratory infection and will be destroyed because shelters just don't have the funds to pay for even a $100 treatment.
The grim reaper:
Here's a little euthanasia 101 for those of you that have never witnessed a perfectly healthy, scared animal being "put-down".
First, your pet will be taken from its kennel on a leash. They always look like they think they are going for a walk - happy, wagging their tails. That is, until they get to "The Room".
Every one of them freaks out and puts on the brakes when we get to the door. It must smell like death, or they can feel the sad souls that are left in there. It's strange, but it happens with every one of them. Your dog or cat will be restrained, held down by 1 or 2 vet techs (depending on their size and how freaked out they are). A euthanasia tech or a vet will start the process. They find a vein in the front leg and inject a lethal dose of the "pink stuff". Hopefully your pet doesn't panic from being restrained and jerk it's leg. I've seen the needles tear out of a leg and been covered with the resulting blood, and been deafened by the yelps and screams.
They all don't just "go to sleep" - sometimes they spasm for a while, gasp for air and defecate on themselves.
When it all ends, your pet's corpse will be stacked like firewood in a large freezer in the back, with all of the other animals that were killed, waiting to be picked up like garbage.
What happens next? Cremated? Taken to the dump? Rendered into pet food? You'll never know, and it probably won't even cross your mind. It was just an animal, and you can always buy another one, right?
Liberty, freedom and justice for all
I hope that those of you that have read this are bawling your eyes out and can't get the pictures out of your head. I do everyday on the way home from work. I hate my job, I hate that it exists and I hate that it will always be there unless people make some changes and realize that the lives you are affecting go much farther than the pets you dump at a shelter.
Between 9 and 11 MILLION animals die every year in shelters and only you can stop it. I do my best to save every life I can but rescues are always full, and there are more animals coming in everyday than there are homes.
My point to all of this is DON'T BREED OR BUY WHILE SHELTER PETS DIE!
Hate me if you want to - the truth hurts and reality is what it is.
I just hope I maybe changed one person's mind about breeding their dog, taking their loving pet to a shelter, or buying a dog. I hope that someone will walk into my shelter and say "I saw this thing on craigslist and it made me want to adopt".
That would make it all worth it."
Author unknown
Together we can end this senseless killing. Keep speaking out and sharing this page:
http://www.facebook.com/pages/
Our society needs a huge wake-up call.
As a shelter manager, I am going to share a little insight with you all - a view from the inside, if you will.
Maybe if you saw the life drain from a few sad, lost, confused eyes, you would change your mind about breeding and selling to people you don't even know - that puppy you just sold will most likely end up in my shelter when it's not a cute little puppy anymore.
How would you feel if you knew that there's about a 90% chance that dog will never walk out of the shelter it is going to be dumped at - purebred or not! About 50% of all of the dogs that are "owner surrenders" or "strays" that come into my shelter are purebred dogs.
No shortage of excuses
The most common excuses I hear are:
We are moving and we can't take our dog (or cat).
Really? Where are you moving to that doesn't allow pets?
The dog got bigger than we thought it would.
How big did you think a German Shepherd would get?
We don't have time for her.
Really? I work a 10-12 hour day and still have time for my 6 dogs!
She's tearing up our yard.
How about bringing her inside, making her a part of your family?
They always tell me: We just don't want to have to stress about finding a place for her. We know she'll get adopted - she's a good dog. Odds are your pet won't get adopted, and how stressful do you think being in a shelter is?
Well, let me tell you. Dead pet walking!
Your pet has 72 hours to find a new family from the moment you drop it off, sometimes a little longer if the shelter isn't full and your dog manages to stay completely healthy.
If it sniffles, it dies.
Your pet will be confined to a small run / kennel in a room with about 25 other barking or crying animals. It will have to relieve itself where it eats and sleeps. It will be depressed and it will cry constantly for the family that abandoned it.
If your pet is lucky, I will have enough volunteers that day to take him / her for a walk. If I don't, your pet won't get any attention besides having a bowl of food slid under the kennel door and the waste sprayed out of its pen with a high-powered hose.
If your dog is big, black or any of the "bully" breeds (pit bull, rottweiler, mastiff, etc) it was pretty much dead when you walked it through the front door. Those dogs just don't get adopted.
If your dog doesn't get adopted within its 72 hours and the shelter is full, it will be destroyed.
If the shelter isn't full and your dog is good enough, and of a desirable enough breed, it may get a stay of execution, though not for long. Most pets get very kennel protective after about a week and are destroyed for showing aggression. Even the sweetest dogs will turn in this environment.
If your pet makes it over all of those hurdles, chances are it will get kennel cough or an upper respiratory infection and will be destroyed because shelters just don't have the funds to pay for even a $100 treatment.
The grim reaper:
Here's a little euthanasia 101 for those of you that have never witnessed a perfectly healthy, scared animal being "put-down".
First, your pet will be taken from its kennel on a leash. They always look like they think they are going for a walk - happy, wagging their tails. That is, until they get to "The Room".
Every one of them freaks out and puts on the brakes when we get to the door. It must smell like death, or they can feel the sad souls that are left in there. It's strange, but it happens with every one of them. Your dog or cat will be restrained, held down by 1 or 2 vet techs (depending on their size and how freaked out they are). A euthanasia tech or a vet will start the process. They find a vein in the front leg and inject a lethal dose of the "pink stuff". Hopefully your pet doesn't panic from being restrained and jerk it's leg. I've seen the needles tear out of a leg and been covered with the resulting blood, and been deafened by the yelps and screams.
They all don't just "go to sleep" - sometimes they spasm for a while, gasp for air and defecate on themselves.
When it all ends, your pet's corpse will be stacked like firewood in a large freezer in the back, with all of the other animals that were killed, waiting to be picked up like garbage.
What happens next? Cremated? Taken to the dump? Rendered into pet food? You'll never know, and it probably won't even cross your mind. It was just an animal, and you can always buy another one, right?
Liberty, freedom and justice for all
I hope that those of you that have read this are bawling your eyes out and can't get the pictures out of your head. I do everyday on the way home from work. I hate my job, I hate that it exists and I hate that it will always be there unless people make some changes and realize that the lives you are affecting go much farther than the pets you dump at a shelter.
Between 9 and 11 MILLION animals die every year in shelters and only you can stop it. I do my best to save every life I can but rescues are always full, and there are more animals coming in everyday than there are homes.
My point to all of this is DON'T BREED OR BUY WHILE SHELTER PETS DIE!
Hate me if you want to - the truth hurts and reality is what it is.
I just hope I maybe changed one person's mind about breeding their dog, taking their loving pet to a shelter, or buying a dog. I hope that someone will walk into my shelter and say "I saw this thing on craigslist and it made me want to adopt".
That would make it all worth it."
Author unknown
Together we can end this senseless killing. Keep speaking out and sharing this page:
http://www.facebook.com/pages/
Sunday 2 December 2012
Keep Your Pet Safe This Christmas- Avoid these common hazards
The Hazardous
Days of Christmas. Keep your pet safe!
This information kindly composed by Dr. Watters and Dr.
Pittaway of Golf links Veterinarian Hospital
27 Legend Court, Unit 1A
Ancaster, ON
Tel: 905 304 PETS
Antifreeze
This common toxin is known to cause acute kidney failure even when
consumed in small amounts. Some of the first signs noticed may include: Lethargy,
weakness, and increased drinking/urination. Immediate emergency
treatment is required following ingestion of antifreeze. Antifreeze poisoning can be fatal. Keep out of the reach of pets and children.
Chocolate - No chocolate (or coffee gift
packs) under the tree!
Keep all
chocolate away from our furry friends, especially dark or baking chocolate. The
seriousness of the reaction depends on the amount and type of chocolate
consumed and size of the pet. Increased thirst,
vomiting, restlessness and seizures are among the signs to watch for.
Foreign Objects/Decorations
Toys, ribbon,
tree ornaments- all of these items can get stuck within the intestinal tract of
pets. – Often requiring emergency surgery. Take a minute to ensure your home is
pet proof
Grapes and Raisins (and Onions are a no
no too!)
Unfortunately,
these sweet treats can cause kidney failure and sometimes death in our pets
Macadamia nuts
There is an
unidentified toxin in these nuts that causes weak legs incoordination and vomiting. Ingestion is not usually fatal but is stressful for both pet and owner.
Poinsettia
The most
traditional Christmas plant, poinsettias will cause vomiting and diarrhea if
eaten. Protect your pet and put these
plants out of reach or do not bring them into the house.
Mistletoe
Ingestion of
Mistletoe can cause vomiting and diarrhea.
Left overs/turkey/stuffing/fruitcake
Feeding
holiday left overs to our pets sure is tempting; however, sudden changes in
diets can cause diarrhea and vomiting. High fat and sugar and toxic onions in
turkey and stuffing can make your pet very ill. Do not give in to the begging.
Give doggy treats to the doggies and keep food out of reach to avoid “Christmas
belly” in your pet.
Sugar Free Gum
Sugar free
gum contains Xylitol, an artificial sweetener. Xylitol fools the body into
thinking the blood sugar is high and the body responds by secreting excess
insulin. This can lead to a potentially fatal sudden drop in blood sugar. If
you suspect your pet has consumed sugar free gum – see a vet immediately. Keep the purses and coats of your guests out
of reach. Dogs steal these treats from purses and coat pockets!
Wishing you and your pet a Happy and Healthy
Holiday Season
Sunday 18 November 2012
Puppy mill dogs
Hello,
My topic tonight is puppy mill dogs. There is no good reason to ever buy a dog from a pet store - read puppy mill. The breeder dogs are treated like livestock, caged for their entire lives , never feeling the warmth and love of a human touch, the grass beneath their feet , the sun on their faces or the freedom to run. Thet receive no love and minimal if any vet care. Please do not promote this cruelty with your dollars. Adopt your pet.
Read the story of Lily and the inception of the National Mill Dog Rescue. Theresa Strader will give you inspiration.
My topic tonight is puppy mill dogs. There is no good reason to ever buy a dog from a pet store - read puppy mill. The breeder dogs are treated like livestock, caged for their entire lives , never feeling the warmth and love of a human touch, the grass beneath their feet , the sun on their faces or the freedom to run. Thet receive no love and minimal if any vet care. Please do not promote this cruelty with your dollars. Adopt your pet.
Read the story of Lily and the inception of the National Mill Dog Rescue. Theresa Strader will give you inspiration.
Please check this link to learn the truth behind puppy mills and so called responsible breeders.
Love and hope for change.
Augie
Sunday 23 September 2012
Meet Penny Rescued Puppy Mill Dog- Adopt -Don't Buy
Hi Everyone, Meet Penny.
She is a 5 year old shitz/jack cross from a puppy mill. She has just joined Jack Russell Terrier Rescue When asked why we foster, she is one of many reasons. Kissmutt rescue brought her in, and asked JRTRO to help out. Had she not been taken in she would have been shot. You see, her usefulness at a mill is only as a breeder machine.
Please think about this when tempted to buy puppies from pet shops or back yard breeders. She is 5 years old and has never known the gentle touch of a human until now.
She is surprisingly gentle and trusting although timid just now and will find a great new life in a great new home because of the work that Rescue does. Two rescues came together to help this girl.
Your new best friend may be waiting for you at a rescue and you will have given a homeless dog hope, life, and happiness. In return they give you joy and unconditional love. These little beings are not throwaways or cash machines!
Pet Store Fact ~ Pet Store Puppies and their parents are not screened for genetic disorders. The parents are bred in mills regardless of hereditary orthopedic problems, such as hip dysplasia or ophthalmic diseases. The parents are simply 'puppy machines' bred over and over again for profit and the female is bred until her body just gives up approx by the age of 5 years
Pet Store Fact ~ Pet Store Puppies and their parents are not screened for genetic disorders. The parents are bred in mills regardless of hereditary orthopedic problems, such as hip dysplasia or ophthalmic diseases. The parents are simply 'puppy machines' bred over and over again for profit and the female is bred until her body just gives up approx by the age of 5 years
Opt to Adopt
Penny and all the homeless dogs thank you.
Wags
Augie
Sunday 16 September 2012
Read Bingo's Story: Please help
Hi Every one,
Meet Bingo.
He is 8 months old and was surrendered to a vet clinic today. He had broken his front paw back in the beginning of July. The owners only sought help from the vet because the humane society had gotten involved. His owners were reported due to Bingo’s condition to the humane society.
The vet had splinted his foot (as is regular procedure for this type of break), but the owners failed to take care of it properly. When he was at the clinic today the owners were told that they could be looking at surgery or amputation for his foot as it hasn’t healed properly. They decided that they would have him euthanized instead. The vet convinced them to surrender Bingo to the clinic.
Jack Russell Terrier Rescue will take him because he is a great dog and deserves proper care and a chance at life.
The ladies at the vet clinic had already gone out and bought him a collar (he came in with baler twine for a collar and leash). Bingo has very dry skin, hair and is itchy. This is due in part to a flea infestation and poor nutrition. He is being treated for that. He will need surgery and we are hoping that we can raise the money for his surgery through generous donations from all the wonderful dog lovers out there.
He is an amazing little guy. I can’t believe what a great disposition he has considering he has been in agony for the past 2 months. He is affectionate, friendly to everyone: people, canine or feline and super cute. There was no way JRTRO couldn’t help him.
We are unsure of what his future holds for him but we are going to try to help him keep his leg and his great spirit.
Hoping to bring him to Paris next weekend for the Jack Russell Trials at the Paris fairgrounds so everyone can have the pleasure of meeting him.
He was so well loved he doesn’t even know his name. How sad.
We are accepting any donations towards Bingo’s vetting
There
are many ways to donate:By
cheque:
Mail cheques payable to JRTRO to the following
address:
Linda Klan, JRTRO Finance
2
Withrow Avenue, Unit 2
TORONTO On M4K
1C9
Write "Bingo Fundraiser" in the memo line. To receive a tax
receipt please ensure that your full name and address is included with your
cheque.
By
e-transfer:
Please send e-transfer to:
linda.evelyn.klan@gmail.com
By credit card:
Go
to the Helping Homeless Pets website: http://www.helpinghomelesspets.com/
At the top right hand
corner of their home page is a DONATE button. Click this and you will be given a
choice of making your donation by credit card or by cheque. If you would like
to send a cheque, please mail it directly to JRTRO, see above.
If you
would like to pay by credit card, click on Donate Now over the Credit Card
option:
At the donation screen, enter the amount you wish to donate AND
be sure to enter Jack Russell Terrier Rescue in the Fund/Designation field.
You can use the comments section for additional information such as
"Bingo fundraiser" and there is an option to make a gift .
After you
fill in the form, click on the continue button to enter the credit card
information and complete the donation. If you have any questions contact
Ursula Meyer at beams_um@hotmail.com.
Bingo Thanks You!!
|
Sunday 9 September 2012
Feeding home cooked dog food
Good Evening,
Some commercial foods are really poor nutrition for pets and cause allergies and other health problems.
One of the best ways to keep dogs healthy is to feed home cooked dog food. My mom makes vegetarian food and supplements with Vitamin B. Or a multivite because veg diets lack b vitamins and so must supplement (People must supplement too if they are veg). We are all healthy and dive into the food and look for more.
She uses barley or brown rice as a base, adds lentils, split peas, and tofu or soy crumbles as protein. Any vegetables are fair game especially squash, carrots, potatoes. Never give dogs grapes, onions or raisins! And everyone knows chocolate and caffeine are no no's for dogs.
Add some low sodium bouillon cubes, olive oil , apples or blueberries if you have some left over and put it all in the crock pot with about 8 cups water. Let it simmer on low setting for several hours and you have the best dog food and the house smells great while it is cooking.
We have been on this diet for 4 years and we are doing very well. Vet approved!
I used to have allergies and Melly had kidney failure but she has been hale and hearty for 4 years and is now 18 with no problems. Our teeth are in good shape too .
We get Natural Balance vegetarian food if Mom skips cooking for a few days. So consider doing this for your furkids. They will thank you and you will be thrilled with how inexpensive it is and how healthy and happy your dogs will be.
Wags
Augie
Some commercial foods are really poor nutrition for pets and cause allergies and other health problems.
One of the best ways to keep dogs healthy is to feed home cooked dog food. My mom makes vegetarian food and supplements with Vitamin B. Or a multivite because veg diets lack b vitamins and so must supplement (People must supplement too if they are veg). We are all healthy and dive into the food and look for more.
She uses barley or brown rice as a base, adds lentils, split peas, and tofu or soy crumbles as protein. Any vegetables are fair game especially squash, carrots, potatoes. Never give dogs grapes, onions or raisins! And everyone knows chocolate and caffeine are no no's for dogs.
Add some low sodium bouillon cubes, olive oil , apples or blueberries if you have some left over and put it all in the crock pot with about 8 cups water. Let it simmer on low setting for several hours and you have the best dog food and the house smells great while it is cooking.
We have been on this diet for 4 years and we are doing very well. Vet approved!
I used to have allergies and Melly had kidney failure but she has been hale and hearty for 4 years and is now 18 with no problems. Our teeth are in good shape too .
We get Natural Balance vegetarian food if Mom skips cooking for a few days. So consider doing this for your furkids. They will thank you and you will be thrilled with how inexpensive it is and how healthy and happy your dogs will be.
Wags
Augie
Sunday 12 August 2012
Foster Parents needed and Pawlooza this weekend
Happy Sunday to everyone,
We are still looking for good foster parents for our dogs waiting to be adopted. We have several beautiful Jack Russell Terriers in rescue waiting for homes. They need a place to rest their paws while waiting for forever homes. Won't you consider helping one of these great little dogs. It is great way to experience having a dog short term. Vetting is paid for by the rescue.
You supply the love.
Contact cjechambers@gmail.com or go to the Jack Russell Terrier Rescue of Ontario website if you can help
Don't forget Pawlooza is happening this weekend in London ON.
We are still looking for good foster parents for our dogs waiting to be adopted. We have several beautiful Jack Russell Terriers in rescue waiting for homes. They need a place to rest their paws while waiting for forever homes. Won't you consider helping one of these great little dogs. It is great way to experience having a dog short term. Vetting is paid for by the rescue.
You supply the love.
Contact cjechambers@gmail.com or go to the Jack Russell Terrier Rescue of Ontario website if you can help
Don't forget Pawlooza is happening this weekend in London ON.
Pawlooza
https://www.facebook.com/Pawlooza
Pawlooza is a 100% volunteer-driven festival. Thousands of hours are put into the festival by the Organizing Committee and 300 volunteers. All are working on behalf of two local non-profits - [ARF Ontario – working with First Nations and rural communities throughout Ontario to rescue, rehab and re-home stray dogs and cats, and LEADS Employment Services – helping people with disabilities throughout Southwestern Ontario find employment and receive skills training].
Love AugieMonday 6 August 2012
Good Morning,
I hope all are enjoying this fine Civic Holiday Weekend.
Yesterday I helped my mom with transporting 2 foster doggies to their foster moms. Two lovely Jack Russell Terriers are now safe and in foster care waiting adoption.
A new JRT is coming in on Tuesday. Her name is Cricket. She will be available for adoption once she sees the vet and we know all is well. She is 4 and cute as..... well a cricket.
Maddie and Nina the other two are also cute little girls. See these and the other JRTs waiting for homes on petfinder http://www.petfinder.com/pet-search?shelterid=ON134 Go see their pictures. Read the story of Liitle Jack a senior JRT found lost in the middle of a busy street! My goodness!
OR
Please go on the Jack Russell Terrier Rescue of Ontario web site to see Maddie and Nina and other great JRTs. Cricket will be there end of next week. Copy these links into your address bar to go to the website.
It is said that "money can't buy you love, everybody tell me so" but those people have never known the love of a pet. Especially a JRT
http://jrtro.wordpress.com/about/contact/
Love
Augie and Mom (Jan)
I hope all are enjoying this fine Civic Holiday Weekend.
Yesterday I helped my mom with transporting 2 foster doggies to their foster moms. Two lovely Jack Russell Terriers are now safe and in foster care waiting adoption.
A new JRT is coming in on Tuesday. Her name is Cricket. She will be available for adoption once she sees the vet and we know all is well. She is 4 and cute as..... well a cricket.
Maddie and Nina the other two are also cute little girls. See these and the other JRTs waiting for homes on petfinder http://www.petfinder.com/pet-search?shelterid=ON134 Go see their pictures. Read the story of Liitle Jack a senior JRT found lost in the middle of a busy street! My goodness!
OR
Please go on the Jack Russell Terrier Rescue of Ontario web site to see Maddie and Nina and other great JRTs. Cricket will be there end of next week. Copy these links into your address bar to go to the website.
It is said that "money can't buy you love, everybody tell me so" but those people have never known the love of a pet. Especially a JRT
http://jrtro.wordpress.com/about/contact/
Love
Augie and Mom (Jan)
Tuesday 24 July 2012
No Kill Nation - yes it is possible!
Good Evening My Friends
I wanted to share with you a wonderful book written by Nathan Winograd. He is an attorney and the leader of the "No Kill Nation" movement in Canada and the USA. My mom heard him speak in Toronto in April and was inspired by his philosophy. If you love animals, and I assume you do or you would not be rewading a blog by a dog, you must read this book. It will revolutionize the SPCA and sheltering methods for animals in North America and beyond.
You will never think of animal rescue in the same way once you have read Nathan's books. Also read "Irreconcilable Differences" by Nathan Winograd. My mom immediately resigned her PETA membership upon reading these books. Find out why!
Happy Reading.
Wags
Augie
Redemption: The Myth of Pet Overpopulation & The No Kill Revolution in America
By Nathan J. Winograd
By Nathan J. Winograd
Wednesday 18 July 2012
Good Morning,
I got to thinking about all the people that would love to have a pet but cannot afford the spay neuter or vet care. lets face it - vet care is very expensive.
There is a low cost spay neuter vaccination program at the Ontario SPCA located in Newmarket. on 16586 Woodbine Avenue and one in Barrie on 91 Patterson Rd Barrie ON.
It is a little hard to make and appointment - they only man the phones on certain days of the week and only for short periods of time so if you call 905 898 6112 for Newmarket or 705 734 9882 for Barrie between 8 and 6 they will tell you hours of operation for appointments and how to get your pet an appointment. The cost is very reasonable and well worth the trip.
The web site is http://spayneuter.ontariospca.ca. Here there is more information on the pre operative care and post operative care.
These clinics are open to anyone regardless of geography or income. There is another site being built but not sure of exact location in the GTA.
So get those spay neuters done. We need to stop the birth of unwanted pets because all pets should be wanted and loved.
As soon as I know where and when the next OSPCA low cost clinic is located and open I will be sure to let you know.
Wags
Augie
I got to thinking about all the people that would love to have a pet but cannot afford the spay neuter or vet care. lets face it - vet care is very expensive.
There is a low cost spay neuter vaccination program at the Ontario SPCA located in Newmarket. on 16586 Woodbine Avenue and one in Barrie on 91 Patterson Rd Barrie ON.
It is a little hard to make and appointment - they only man the phones on certain days of the week and only for short periods of time so if you call 905 898 6112 for Newmarket or 705 734 9882 for Barrie between 8 and 6 they will tell you hours of operation for appointments and how to get your pet an appointment. The cost is very reasonable and well worth the trip.
The web site is http://spayneuter.ontariospca.ca. Here there is more information on the pre operative care and post operative care.
These clinics are open to anyone regardless of geography or income. There is another site being built but not sure of exact location in the GTA.
So get those spay neuters done. We need to stop the birth of unwanted pets because all pets should be wanted and loved.
As soon as I know where and when the next OSPCA low cost clinic is located and open I will be sure to let you know.
Wags
Augie
Tuesday 10 July 2012
Fostering for a rescue: JRTRO needs foster homes
Good morning,
I have request of all of my followers. Jack Russel Terrier Rescue of Ontario has a serious shortage of foster homes. Foster homes are so important to the rescue. Here is where the dogs wait for there forever homes. If you have never fostered I must say it is a wonderful experience. The rescued dog has a family to live with while awaiting adoption. This means they get out of the pound or when they are surrendered by an owner they have a safe place to land. It means the rescue can save more dogs. The rescue pays for vet bills and may help with food if the foster cannot afford to buy food or if the dog needs a special diet.
Fostering is very rewarding. My mom has had many fosters over the years and we are thrilled when these dogs get adopted and get a second chance at happiness.
Please consider fostering. Go on the JRTRO web site and fill out an application. You will be glad you did.
Be a hero and help a homeless pet.
Love,
Augie
I have request of all of my followers. Jack Russel Terrier Rescue of Ontario has a serious shortage of foster homes. Foster homes are so important to the rescue. Here is where the dogs wait for there forever homes. If you have never fostered I must say it is a wonderful experience. The rescued dog has a family to live with while awaiting adoption. This means they get out of the pound or when they are surrendered by an owner they have a safe place to land. It means the rescue can save more dogs. The rescue pays for vet bills and may help with food if the foster cannot afford to buy food or if the dog needs a special diet.
Fostering is very rewarding. My mom has had many fosters over the years and we are thrilled when these dogs get adopted and get a second chance at happiness.
Please consider fostering. Go on the JRTRO web site and fill out an application. You will be glad you did.
Be a hero and help a homeless pet.
Love,
Augie
Thursday 5 July 2012
Hot Dogs #2 To walk or not to walk in the heat!
Hi Everyone.
My mom has been away for her birthday. I was in charge of my sisters and my brother while we were in the care of the doggy sitter. Max, my brother is a bad ass Jack Russell and can be quite a handful. He was his usual ornery self while mom was away, growling at anyone that goes near his bed. I was very happy to see her and my dad come home.
Today I want to remind everyone about Hot Dogs again but this time about exercising such as chasing a ball, or staying out side for extended periods, or walking dogs in this heat. The temperatures will soar to 35 degrees tomorrow and it has been very humid. Not much relief in sight either.
Dogs do not sweat like humans. Dogs release heat by panting. The only limited way they sweat is through the foot pads and nose. So they cannot cool themselves like humans. AND you may have noticed the fur.
If you must walk your dog in this heat it must be done in the early morning or after sundown. Keep exercise brief (ten minutes) and if need be put a wet shirt on the dog to keep him cool while walking.
If a dog cannot effectively rid himself of heat, the internal body temperature begins to rise. Once the dog's temperature reaches 106°, damage to the body's cellular system and organs may become irreversible.
Too many dogs succumb to heat stroke when it could have been avoided. Learn how to recognise the signs of heat stroke and prevent it from happening to your dog. Prevention is better than treatment.
Watch for these symptoms of heat stroke and take action immediately
Don't forget the wet shirt! Stay cool.
Love Augie
My mom has been away for her birthday. I was in charge of my sisters and my brother while we were in the care of the doggy sitter. Max, my brother is a bad ass Jack Russell and can be quite a handful. He was his usual ornery self while mom was away, growling at anyone that goes near his bed. I was very happy to see her and my dad come home.
Today I want to remind everyone about Hot Dogs again but this time about exercising such as chasing a ball, or staying out side for extended periods, or walking dogs in this heat. The temperatures will soar to 35 degrees tomorrow and it has been very humid. Not much relief in sight either.
Dogs do not sweat like humans. Dogs release heat by panting. The only limited way they sweat is through the foot pads and nose. So they cannot cool themselves like humans. AND you may have noticed the fur.
If you must walk your dog in this heat it must be done in the early morning or after sundown. Keep exercise brief (ten minutes) and if need be put a wet shirt on the dog to keep him cool while walking.
If a dog cannot effectively rid himself of heat, the internal body temperature begins to rise. Once the dog's temperature reaches 106°, damage to the body's cellular system and organs may become irreversible.
Too many dogs succumb to heat stroke when it could have been avoided. Learn how to recognise the signs of heat stroke and prevent it from happening to your dog. Prevention is better than treatment.
Watch for these symptoms of heat stroke and take action immediately
- Rectal temperature over 104° requires action, over 106° is a dire emergency
- Panting hard
- Lying down and unwilling or cannot get up or stand up
- Look in the mouth for:
- Gums that are dark red
- Dry mouth
- Sticky, thick saliva
- Staggering, dizziness or confusion
- Collapse or loss of consciousness
First - get the dog out of the heat! Find shade or get the dog in a cool house.
- Cool the dog by compressing with cool wet washcloths (not ice or extremely cold water) around the face and body and foot pads.
- The aim is to cool to 103° by rectal temperature
- Encourage the dog to drink cool water and have someone call the vet while you administer these first aid measures - you must see the vet! If the temperature exceeds 104° or the dog has the above signs and symptoms it is a medical emergency
- Heat stroke has serious consequences - avoid at all costs.
Don't forget the wet shirt! Stay cool.
Love Augie
Thursday 28 June 2012
Story of Mellie: Care of a pet when a guardian becomes ill or dies.
Hello,
I have been a very busy dog this last week. On a conference about well being for companion animals. One topic that we need to talk about is what happens when a pet can no longer be cared for by their guardian due to illness or death of the guardian.
Now then, humans "get their affairs in order" because they know that one day they will die or get sick and be unable to care for themselves. They make a will and their belongings are dispersed according to that will. They make plans to go into a nursing home or stay with one of their children.
But what happens to pets when someone dies or becomes disabled. Often they go to the pound.
Mellie (short for Caramel), my older sister, (and I mean old),was just such a case.
Mellie was 14 when she came into our family. She was living the good life, the only child of an adoring mom. She was walked several times a day in a beautiful walking path just outside her home, she traveled frequently to California with her mom and to many other wonderful places. They were inseparable and loved each other very much. Mellie had expensive coats and toys and carrying cases for air travel. She was and still is a bit of a diva.
Then Mellie`s mom got really sick. Mellie no longer went for walks but she did not know why. Mellie's world came crashing down around her. Her mom had lung cancer and deterioriated very rapidly. She could no longer pay attention to Mellie for even the basics. One of her mom`s friends tried to walk Mellie but it was very infrequent.
Shortly after Mellie's mom died , my mom went to get Mellie as she was coming into Jack Russell Terrier rescue. When my mom picked her up she was in the almost empty apartment that she had called home with her mom for 14 years. The poor dog was grieving, confused, angry and in a near state of hysteria. The four people that her mom had lined up at the last minute that were supposed to take Mellie all backed out. May have been because Mellie was so distressed and was snapping at people. I can not blame her for being frightened and upset. She was such an emotional mess for the first 6 weeks she was at my house no one could touch her. We were very concerned about her.
One day, after about 6 weeks, Mellie hopped up beside my mom - it was unwise to try to pet her because she would snap at all of us if we got too close. This day she heaved a big sigh and put her head in my mom`s lap. She asked to be petted by bumping my mom`s hand. Mom petted her ever so gingerly and she did not snap. Mellie had decided she would give us a chance. My mom had a few tears just then because she knew what grief Mellie had suffered. It was so unfair to this little dog.
By this time my mom figured she was not adoptable and we told JRT rescue that we would keep her in our family. Mellie is now 18 and I must say in wonderful shape for an old girl. Sometimes she even tries to play with me, hopping around like a teenager. I think the old girl has a few screws loose and I am much too dignified to play with someone old enough to be my grandmother. Sheeesh.
But the point of my story, or Mellie's story is this - if you plan for someone to take care of your pets should you be unable to, get this in an agreement in writing well in advance of an emergency and make sure it is someone you trust. If you think it is possble the appointed guardian will not be there for your pet when the time comes contact a rescue and get advice from them about care of a pet when a guardian becomes ill or dies. You may be able to secure a promise for the rescue to take your pet and rehome them if no one else will do it.
Tell your humans to take care of this detail right now while you are thinking of it. Pets cannot fend for themselves when they lose their guardian and they are often not at their most lovable and adoptable when they are stressed and grieving.
Look at Mellie. She has had 4 good years and she is still going strong. But she could have been euthanized due to her age and behavior all because her guardian did not plan well for her care in the event of her being abandoned due to illness and death. Get your humans to make plans for your care right now. This is my best advice. And help your guardians stay healthy by getting them out for their daily walks and hope you never have to face losing your loved ones.
That is all for now,
Wags
Augie
I have been a very busy dog this last week. On a conference about well being for companion animals. One topic that we need to talk about is what happens when a pet can no longer be cared for by their guardian due to illness or death of the guardian.
Now then, humans "get their affairs in order" because they know that one day they will die or get sick and be unable to care for themselves. They make a will and their belongings are dispersed according to that will. They make plans to go into a nursing home or stay with one of their children.
But what happens to pets when someone dies or becomes disabled. Often they go to the pound.
Mellie (short for Caramel), my older sister, (and I mean old),was just such a case.
Mellie was 14 when she came into our family. She was living the good life, the only child of an adoring mom. She was walked several times a day in a beautiful walking path just outside her home, she traveled frequently to California with her mom and to many other wonderful places. They were inseparable and loved each other very much. Mellie had expensive coats and toys and carrying cases for air travel. She was and still is a bit of a diva.
Then Mellie`s mom got really sick. Mellie no longer went for walks but she did not know why. Mellie's world came crashing down around her. Her mom had lung cancer and deterioriated very rapidly. She could no longer pay attention to Mellie for even the basics. One of her mom`s friends tried to walk Mellie but it was very infrequent.
Shortly after Mellie's mom died , my mom went to get Mellie as she was coming into Jack Russell Terrier rescue. When my mom picked her up she was in the almost empty apartment that she had called home with her mom for 14 years. The poor dog was grieving, confused, angry and in a near state of hysteria. The four people that her mom had lined up at the last minute that were supposed to take Mellie all backed out. May have been because Mellie was so distressed and was snapping at people. I can not blame her for being frightened and upset. She was such an emotional mess for the first 6 weeks she was at my house no one could touch her. We were very concerned about her.
One day, after about 6 weeks, Mellie hopped up beside my mom - it was unwise to try to pet her because she would snap at all of us if we got too close. This day she heaved a big sigh and put her head in my mom`s lap. She asked to be petted by bumping my mom`s hand. Mom petted her ever so gingerly and she did not snap. Mellie had decided she would give us a chance. My mom had a few tears just then because she knew what grief Mellie had suffered. It was so unfair to this little dog.
By this time my mom figured she was not adoptable and we told JRT rescue that we would keep her in our family. Mellie is now 18 and I must say in wonderful shape for an old girl. Sometimes she even tries to play with me, hopping around like a teenager. I think the old girl has a few screws loose and I am much too dignified to play with someone old enough to be my grandmother. Sheeesh.
But the point of my story, or Mellie's story is this - if you plan for someone to take care of your pets should you be unable to, get this in an agreement in writing well in advance of an emergency and make sure it is someone you trust. If you think it is possble the appointed guardian will not be there for your pet when the time comes contact a rescue and get advice from them about care of a pet when a guardian becomes ill or dies. You may be able to secure a promise for the rescue to take your pet and rehome them if no one else will do it.
Tell your humans to take care of this detail right now while you are thinking of it. Pets cannot fend for themselves when they lose their guardian and they are often not at their most lovable and adoptable when they are stressed and grieving.
Look at Mellie. She has had 4 good years and she is still going strong. But she could have been euthanized due to her age and behavior all because her guardian did not plan well for her care in the event of her being abandoned due to illness and death. Get your humans to make plans for your care right now. This is my best advice. And help your guardians stay healthy by getting them out for their daily walks and hope you never have to face losing your loved ones.
That is all for now,
Wags
Augie
Saturday 23 June 2012
Hot dogs
Hello,
Augie here. I have been away for a few days.
I thought I should remind everyone about hot dogs. In this heat a car can heat up rapidly. There is no safe time limit to leave a dog in the car in warm weather. There have been several deaths in the news in the last two weeks from just such carelessness by guardians.
So we know how hot the car can get and we know that dogs die from exposure to heat in a car or even being left outside in the sun with no water.
The question is- you are walking along the street and you see a dog in the car in the heat. call the police. not 911 unless the dog appears near death. Call the police number or get someone to do it. Give the location and description of the car and license number. Stay near by. The car owner will be angry if they return and find you have reported them so no need to confront.
The police will come and the owner will be charged. Breaking windows could lead to the dog attacking you or you being charged with damaging property.
Make it clear when you call that the dog is in distress.
After all these warnings it amazed me guardians still do this. Leave your dog at home in a cool spot. This is a no brainer. Even I know that and I am a DOG!
Talk to you soon.
Wags
Augie
Augie here. I have been away for a few days.
I thought I should remind everyone about hot dogs. In this heat a car can heat up rapidly. There is no safe time limit to leave a dog in the car in warm weather. There have been several deaths in the news in the last two weeks from just such carelessness by guardians.
So we know how hot the car can get and we know that dogs die from exposure to heat in a car or even being left outside in the sun with no water.
The question is- you are walking along the street and you see a dog in the car in the heat. call the police. not 911 unless the dog appears near death. Call the police number or get someone to do it. Give the location and description of the car and license number. Stay near by. The car owner will be angry if they return and find you have reported them so no need to confront.
The police will come and the owner will be charged. Breaking windows could lead to the dog attacking you or you being charged with damaging property.
Make it clear when you call that the dog is in distress.
After all these warnings it amazed me guardians still do this. Leave your dog at home in a cool spot. This is a no brainer. Even I know that and I am a DOG!
Talk to you soon.
Wags
Augie
Friday 15 June 2012
First Aid Kit for Pets
Good evening,
Here is a list of first aid items that may help you in a time of emergency with your pet. You will feel much better knowing you are prepared should someting happen to your pet. Please always err on the side of caution and take your pet to the vet if you suspect he/she is ill. Any bleeding, crying when eliminating, vomiting more than a few times, blood in stool or vomit, dizziness or disorientation, feverishness to name only a few conditions.
I would like to have my vet - Dr J Pittaway comment on the special risks of summer. He and Dr Watters are great vets. Dr Pittaway has been my doctor for many years.
I hide under the chair when I go to see him. He always gets down and coaxes me out. He expects me to play hard to get and there is always a cookie in it for me!
Here is a list of first aid items that may help you in a time of emergency with your pet. You will feel much better knowing you are prepared should someting happen to your pet. Please always err on the side of caution and take your pet to the vet if you suspect he/she is ill. Any bleeding, crying when eliminating, vomiting more than a few times, blood in stool or vomit, dizziness or disorientation, feverishness to name only a few conditions.
I would like to have my vet - Dr J Pittaway comment on the special risks of summer. He and Dr Watters are great vets. Dr Pittaway has been my doctor for many years.
I hide under the chair when I go to see him. He always gets down and coaxes me out. He expects me to play hard to get and there is always a cookie in it for me!
Important Phone
Numbers
Put these on the
fridge and in the first aid kit
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•
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Veterinary clinic
phone number and directions to the clinic
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•
|
Emergency clinic phone
number and directions
|
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•
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Poison control center
phone numbers
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Equipment and
Supplies
|
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•
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Muzzle, or roll of
gauze for making a muzzle
|
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•
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Magnifying glass
|
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•
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Scissors
|
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•
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Tweezers
|
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•
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Nail clippers and
metal nail file
|
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•
|
Styptic powder or
sticks, Kwik Stop, or cornstarch
|
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•
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Penlight
|
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•
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Nylon slip leash
|
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•
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Eye dropper or oral
syringe
|
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•
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Cotton swabs
|
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•
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Cotton balls
|
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•
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Clean towels - cloth
and paper
|
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•
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Rectal thermometer
|
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•
|
Lubricant - KY Jelly-keep
hair from a wound
|
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•
|
Disposable gloves and protective
gloves for you
|
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•
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Syringes of various
sizes
|
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•
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Needle-nose pliers
|
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•
|
Grease-cutting dish
soap
|
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•
|
Bitter Apple or other
product to discourage licking
|
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•
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Pet carrier to suit
the size of your pet – I carry one in the car in case of emergencies
involving an animal
|
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•
|
Towel or blanket to
use as a stretcher, another to keep your dog warm during transport (some
pharmacies and camping outlets carry a thermal blanket)- these are perfect, compact
and fit into a fist aid kit
|
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•
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Cold packs and heat
packs (wrap in towel before using)
|
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•
|
Stethoscope - listen
over left side of chest
|
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