New Years - Pet Safety Tips

We want to wish everyone a very safe and Happy New Year!  We also want to send along a few friendly dog reminders.  When walking your dogs in snowy areas, their paws might pick up some salt from the sidewalks, so please remember to lightly wipe their little paws with a baby wipe or damp cloth to remove the salt.  Also, please remember to keep small ornaments , chocolate treats, alcoholic beverages, and Pointsietta plants out of your dog's reach because they could be very hazardous to your dog.  The small ornaments could cause choking or bowel obstruction, chocolate treats, alcoholic beverages, and Pointsietta plants are toxic to dogs.  Please keep in mind that New Year celebrations may include fireworks, which may upset your dogs, if this is the case, please remember to keep your dogs safely indoors.   Have a very Happy New Year! Love Maxxamillion      

Tips for a Pet-Safe Holiday Season

Happy Hooowlidays!
ASPCA: There’s nothing more scrumptious than gathering with friends and family for the holidays, but many of the ingredients in human fun can result in distress for pets. As we kick off this season of lights, parties and yummy treats, the ASPCA wants to remind pet parents of the potential hazards certain goodies and décor can pose to our furry friends... paw here for more

Greyhounds Up For Adoption At Dairyland

Our local news today had a report about Dairyland Greyhound Racetrack in Wisconsin closing down at the end of December 2009.  Their report said about 900 greyhounds would be up for adoption. For more information on this closing paw here Greyhounds Pets Of America or visit the Dairyland Website.

When Putting Down Your Dog Is Not An Option!

Four years ago our dog Maxxamillion of ten years got very ill just after he had fully recovered from a surgery that removed a cancerous tumor. Our vet told us that this was it and that it was only a matter of time that our boy would pass away, there is nothing I could do for him, we were told. Well we were absolutely not going to give up on our loving companion of ten years so easily.

Shortly thereafter disappointed and heart-broken we took our boy home, putting him down was not an option. He is family and we would not give up on him so easily, especially when we could see so much life and love in his sparkling eyes. My husband and I started researching on the internet for alternative medicines for dogs.

Fortunately, we found medicinal options that we felt would safely help Maxx get started on his way to getting well again. Many of these medicines we read about were holistic and although we live in a big metropolitan area, some were not locally available. However, we were fortunate to find that some of the holistic medicines we needed for Maxxamillion were sold on-line, while several others were available in stores a short distance away.

Over a short time of giving Maxxamillion these holistic medicines, his health began to steadily improve. Although Maxxamillion's overall health steadily improved, he still suffered from arthritis in the joint of his right front paw, which occasionally caused him to limp.

In addition to the holistic medicines we also found a great animal holistic rehabilitation center fully equipped with state-of-the-art equipment. We also learned it provided acupuncture for pets. The center had multiple rehab equipment, one of them being an underwater treadmill which Maxx could use to rehab his rear legs without putting weight on them. We could also get his acupuncture treatments all in one visit. The staff was great, and made us feel right at home. The veterinarians had vast experience in animal rehabilitation as well as being well versed in Chinese and Western herbs. After a few months of taking Maxx to the clinic we were able to arrange for Maxxamillion to receive his acupuncture treatments at home twice a month.

We are so happy to say that these holistic medicines have turned our boy Maxxamillion's health completely around and we recently celebrated his twelfth birthday (10/07)! The holistic approach has let us enjoy Maxx for two more wonderful years and counting. Just like humans, always get a second opinion if in doubt.

Halloween Costume Tips for Your Pets

Even though our fur kids can look smashing in a pumpkin or pirate costume specifically made for their four-legged frames, many pets can have adverse reactions to a constrictive outfit or its irritating materials. Remember, pet parents, animals are most comfortable hanging out in their birthday suits. But in the spirit of all that’s ghoulish, the ASPCA offers some helpful costume tips to keep you and your pet singing “trick-or-treat!” all the way to November 1... ASPCA

Does Lead in Toys Pose a Danger to Pets?

ASPCA: Whether your pet prefers squeaky rubber squirrels, stiff rawhide bones or fuzzy mice, he or she undoubtedly loves to play with toys. But is the source of your dog's or cat’s merriment safe? Many common household products—including toys for children and pets—may contain trace amounts of lead and other toxins. In most cases, however, the levels of these ingredients in toys don’t pose a significant threat to your furry friend.

The ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (APCC) reviewed 200,000 cases from the past two years and produced no examples of lead poisoning from pet toys. According to Dr. Sharon Gwaltney-Brant, ASPCA Vice President and Medical Director of the APCC, younger dogs, just like children, are especially vulnerable to lead poisoning, but most studies reveal only tiny amounts of lead in pet toys—not a grave risk for acute or chronic lead poisoning in dogs...Paw Here to Continue

Are Cats and Dogs Safe From Swine Flu?

I have recently wondered if dogs and cats are safe from the spread of Influenza viruses such as H1N1. ASPCA vets say it's important that pet parents keep watch over their animal companion’s health. Read what ASPCA veterinarians have to say about pets catching swine flu and how to keep them healthy during flu season...Paw Here To Read More.

The Shelter Pet Project from the HSUS

Hooowl All! I just received an email from The Humane Society of the United States about their new campaign hitting the airways beginning today, several humorous, meaningful Public Service Announcements will be hitting the airwaves across the country. Why wait? You can you can watch the commercials now and even find a shelter pet of your own at The Shelter Pet Project's website. Paw Here

Dog Attacker Located Through Facebook

Last Friday, September 11, ASPCA Special Agent Paul Lai arrested New Yorker Donnell Walters for allegedly beating his boyfriend’s dog, a 4½-pound Yorkshire Terrier named Lucy. Lucy’s owner alleges that in late July, a verbal dispute triggered Walters, 22, to assault the tiny canine. He is accused of repeatedly slamming or dropping Lucy to the ground, shattering one of her legs.

When ASPCA Humane Law Enforcement (HLE) began its investigation, Agent Lai had trouble finding Walters. He cleverly used a variety of tools, including Facebook, the popular social networking website, to locate the suspect. Friday’s arrest was made at Walters’ Manhattan workplace; he has been charged with one count of aggravated animal cruelty, which carries a penalty of up to two years in jail...Read More

Keeping Your Pets Safe During Hurricane Season

With hurricane season in full force this is a good time to make sure you and your family have a backup emergency plan in effect for your family and pets. Emergencies come in many forms, and they may require anything from a brief absence from your home to permanent evacuation. Each type of disaster requires different measures to keep your pets safe. The best thing you can do for yourself and your pets is to be prepared. Check out the ASPCA's "Six Steps to A Rescue Plan that Includes Pets"...Paw Here For Rescue Plan

Rescues and Runways Fashion Show

Rescues & Runways kicks off on August 26 with a major fashion show and entertainment at the maurices home office in Duluth, MN. Rescues & Runways is an exciting new nationwide effort by maurices to support local shelters and the animals they help. During the month of September, more than 700 maurices stores in 44 states will host pet-themed fashion shows in partnership with their local animal shelter and sell a special charm to benefit the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals® (ASPCA®)...Continue

Make Your Own Dog Biscuits

Making your own dog treats at home is not as hard as it may seem. What dog could resist a tasty crunchy dog biscuit. Home made means healthier fresher treats for your loving canine companion. These wholesome biscuits are so tasty and fill the house with such a wonderful aroma. Several minutes after the first batch is baking in the oven, our boy Maxxamillion will suddenly stop playing, sniff the air, and walk over to his favorite spot in the kitchen to wait for them. He recognizes the delicious aroma of these biscuits every single time.

Not only are they a delicious treat for your dog, but they are also very wholesome and nutritious for your pet's health. The biscuits are made of wholesome ingredients that contain no salt or unhealthy preservatives...Read More

Maxxamillion Taking A Yard Break

Traveling With Maxxamillion

Traveling with your dog can be a very rewarding experience, but it also means added responsibility on you. The best advice for traveling with your dog is to plan your trip in advance. Make sure your dog is up to date on all his vaccinations, and get a copy of your dogs medical records from your vet. It is a good practice to always have the medical records when you travel in case of an emergency or an accident. Most states in the USA require this.

One of the most popular ways people travel with their dog(s) is to go by car or recreational vehicle. Before you plan on traveling with your dog it is good practice to first get them used to being in your vehicle. Our boy Maxxamillion's wonderful car behavior resulted from us getting him accustomed at an early age. We would take him with us in the car every time we went out, especially to the park close to our home. We brought Maxxamillion home at eight weeks old in December, and by the following summer he was accustomed to riding in the car with us.

Be considerate of your dogs needs when traveling with them. A good tip for traveling with your dog is to chart ahead all the hotels in the towns you intend to stop and visit. It also would be good to look up some animal hospitals on your route. We did this on our way to Texas last summer and it gave us an added peace of mind knowing we had the addresses and phone numbers of most animal hospitals on our route. The internet makes this process very easy today...continue

Dog Fighting Raid Leads to Nearly 500 Rescues

Last week’s multi-state dog fighting raid, the largest federal and state agency crackdown on dog fighting in U.S. history, has resulted in the rescue of nearly 500 dogs, most of whom are Pit Bulls. At the Humane Society of Missouri (HSMO), which is housing more than 400 dogs, 14 puppies were born last week, adding to the overall number of dogs seized.

The operation spanned eight states—Missouri, Illinois, Iowa, Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Nebraska and Mississippi—and news reports indicate that a total of 26 arrests have been made. Because dog fighting is a felony in all 50 states, if convicted of animal fighting charges, those arrested each face up to five years in prison. According to the ASPCA’s Dr. Randall Lockwood, Senior Vice President of Anti-Cruelty Field Services, who was on-site in Missouri, not all dogs seized in raids have been used directly in fights. “Some are breeders—they do not fight, but produce litters of fresh fighters. Others are bait dogs. They lack the bloodlust and so serve as punching bags in training fights. Such dogs often get the worst of it.” Although the task of evaluating all of the seized dogs will be enormous, Dr. Lockwood notes, "At the very least, we're honoring these animals by caring for them.”

The dogs are being sheltered in a secure St. Louis facility under the direction of HSMO’s Animal Cruelty Task Force. Each dog has been examined by a veterinarian and has received an individual medical plan. All have been microchipped and treated for parasites and continue to receive nutritious food, fresh water and a safe place to sleep...ASPCA

Largest Dog Fighting Crackdown In U.S. History

ASPCA July 10, 2009
On Wednesday, July 8, the ASPCA began assisting federal and state agencies in what is believed to be the largest crackdown on dog fighting in U.S. history. The raid spans eight states so far—Missouri, Illinois, Iowa, Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Nebraska and Mississippi. Arrests have been made in all eight states.

Nearly 400 rescued dogs were safely transported to a secure facility under the direction of the Humane Society of Missouri’s (HSMO) Animal Cruelty Task Force, where they will be cared for until final disposition is determined by the U.S. District Court.

“The ASPCA is determined to protect the nation’s pets from dog fighting and other forms of brutality,” says ASPCA President & CEO Ed Sayres. “Animal cruelty cannot be tolerated, and we are proud to lend our support to federal and local agencies to ensure that these abusers are brought to justice.”

At the request of HSMO, the ASPCA is lending the services of its special forensic cruelty investigation team—including disaster animal rescuers, field service investigators and Dr. Melinda Merck, the nation’s premier forensic veterinarian—to collect evidence for the prosecution of the criminal case. The ASPCA’s Mobile Animal Crime Scene Investigation Unit, outfitted with medical equipment tailored specifically for animal patients, is also on hand.

The ASPCA will also eventually assist in behavior evaluations of the dogs.

Dog fighting is banned throughout the United States and is a felony in all 50 states. If convicted of animal fighting charges, those arrested each face up to five years in prison.

Your support makes it possible for the ASPCA to rescue animals from this horrendous life. Your generosity allows our experts to collect the evidence needed to build cases against and prosecute animal cruelty offenders...ASPCA

Fourth of July Festivities and your Dog

From ASPCA:

Should You Bring Your Pet?
As the country dons its red, white and blue to celebrate Independence Day, nothing says patriotism like a good old-fashioned barbecue with a side of fireworks. But beware pet parents, what’s fun for people can be a downright drag for our furry friends.

The ASPCA recommends keeping your pooch indoors as much as possible during backyard parties and Fourth of July festivities, even if he is a pro picnicker. From toxic food and beverages to raucous guests and fireworks, the holiday weekend is a minefield of potential pet problems.

“Even the most timid dog can leap a six-foot fence if he’s spooked by loud noises,” says Dr. Pamela Reid, Vice President of the ASPCA Animal Behavior Center. If your dog shows signs of distress from fireworks or boisterous revelers, Dr. Reid suggests giving him a Kong toy stuffed with peanut butter. “The consistent licking should calm his nerves,” she says.

The ASPCA offers some more expert advice to keep your pet singing, “Oh Say Can You See,” all the way to the fifth and beyond:

* Keep your pet on the wagon. Since alcohol is potentially poisonous to pets, place all wine, beer and spirits well out of paws’ way.
* Avoid scraps from the grill. Stick with your pet’s normal diet—any change, even for a day, can result in stomach upset. Certain foods like onions, avocado, chocolate, grapes and raisins are especially toxic to pets.
* Avoid lathering your pet with any insect repellent or sunscreen not intended for the four-legged kind. Ingestion can result in drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, excessive thirst and lethargy.
* Stay fire-smart. Keep your pet away from fireworks, matches, citronella candles and lighter fluid, which if eaten can irritate the stomach, lungs and central nervous system.
* Be cool near the pool. Don’t leave pets unsupervised around a pool or lake—not all dogs are expert swimmers! Also, pools aren’t large water bowls—they contain chlorine and other toxic chemicals that can cause stomach problems.


As always, if you suspect your pet has ingested something poisonous from the picnic table, please contact your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435. And be sure to check out our more complete list of holiday pet care tips for a safe and happy Fourth! Source: ASPCA

Are All Puppies Sold In Pet Stores From Puppy Mills?

It’s estimated that 99 percent of puppies sold by pet stores come from puppy mills. “No reputable breeder would ever sell their puppies at a pet store. In fact, most breed clubs have a code of ethics prohibiting breeders from selling dogs to pet stores,” says Baker. “Furthermore, reputable breeders care about their puppies, and they would never stick them in a cage. They screen all potential buyers to make sure the puppy goes to a good home.” The ASPCA has been investigating puppy mills for years, helping to expose the realities of this deplorable industry, and thanks to our experts and detailed reports from our undercover puppy mill investigator, the new ASPCA Puppy Mill FAQ offers a greater insight into the notorious puppy trade. Paw here to see the new ASPCA's new Puppy Mill FAQ

Ranch Founder Pleads Not Guilty

Latest News from Wisconsin Raid. Jennifer Petkus, founder of the Thyme and Sage Ranch, pleaded not guilty to 11 misdemeanor counts of animal cruelty and five forfeitures on May 29 in Richland County, WI. , is an animal sanctuary located 75 miles northwest of Madison, WI, that was raided on May 19. ASPCA Forensic and Disaster Response Teams, as well as the Mobile CSI Unit, were onsite to assist local authorities with the investigation and the collection of evidence that will be used in the prosecution of the criminal case.

Last week Petkus relinquished ownership of more than 270 animals, who are being transported to 15 humane societies and rescue organizations throughout Wisconsin and will eventually be made available for adoption. Ten dogs were returned to the Thyme and Sage Ranch, where a Richland County deputy will check on them daily, and a veterinarian will monitor their health. The remaining animals are being held by the Dane County Humane Society as evidence in the ongoing investigation. ASPCA...

Wisconsin Rescue Sanctuary Owner Charged

On Thursday, May 21, Jennifer Petkus, founder of the Thyme and Sage Ranch—a sanctuary once entrusted to care for homeless animals in Richland County, WI—was charged with 11 counts of misdemeanor animal cruelty and five forfeitures after nearly 400 animals were seized from her property. The charges include improper shelter and the mistreatment of animals by intent or negligence.

“The ASPCA Forensics Investigation Team is now beginning to evaluate the evidence they collected from the scene,” says Jeff Eyre, the ASPCA Director of Field Operations and lead investigator on the case. “This includes documentation of the injuries to the animals seized, causes of death and a review of sales, adoption and medical records. All evidence will then be turned over to Richland County authorities to aid in the prosecution of Petkus.”

Animal welfare organizations, in conjunction with the Dane County Humane Society, are currently housing many of the animals seized from the ranch. They include 315 dogs, 21 rabbits, 14 birds, two chinchillas, one cat, one ferret and one rooster. 23 horses also seized from the property are being housed at a Wisconsin horse rescue. Many of the animals are suffering from skin, eye and ear conditions, malnutrition and various internal infections.

Despite numerous attempts to have Petkus sign the seized animals over to authorities, so far she refuses to relinquish ownership. By law, the Dane County Humane Society cannot place any animals up for adoption until Petkus surrenders them or a judge mandates their release.

Petkus is currently free on a $10,000 bond and is scheduled to appear in court today, May 29, at 1:00 P.M. ASPCA Article

When A Rescue Shelter Goes Bad - Wisconsin Animal Seizure

This is a very disturbing story from the ASPCA about a Wisconsin animal sanctuary that was treating there animals in a very inhumane way. "On Tuesday, May 19, the ASPCA dispatched its forensics and animal response teams, as well as its Mobile Animal Crime Scene Investigation (CSI) Unit, to collect evidence in the investigation of the Thyme and Sage Ranch, an animal sanctuary in Cazenovia, WI.

Under the authority and request of the Richland County District Attorney and Dane County Humane Society, the ASPCA is currently evaluating more than 300 animals found at the site and gathering evidence for the prosecution of the criminal case. More than a dozen responders from the ASPCA Disaster Response Team are on the scene, along with the ASPCA Mobile CSI Unit, a specially-designed vehicle outfitted with medical equipment for animal patients." full story and pictures here >>>

Swine Flu Little Risk to Cats and Dogs

Press Release April 29, 2009

NEW YORK—The ASPCA® (The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals®) today announced that the recent human "Swine Flu" outbreak, thought to have originated in Mexico, appears to present a low risk of infecting cats and dogs.

To date, only humans have been affected by the new A/H1N1 virus, and it is unknown whether the virus will impact other animals. Although the virus is being termed "swine flu," researchers have not confirmed that this new strain evolved in pigs and are working to determine more about its origins.

"At this time there is no data demonstrating any risk of dogs and cats contracting this strain of the virus," says Dr. Louise Murray, the Director of Medicine at the ASPCA's Bergh Memorial Hospital in New York City. "However, owners of pet pigs, as well as farmers, should monitor their animal's health more closely during this outbreak. Steps to limit possible transmission from humans to pigs and vice versa are recommended." ... Read The Rest Here

How Dogs Influence Our lifestyles

For some, these two notions might seem too far apart to present any similarities. But still, dogs as objects of our love affect our lifestyle in more ways than we know.

Each and every one of us has gone through at least one experience that included a dog. Whether sad or fortunate, these experiences exist and cannot be ignored. As every other marking moment emotions triggered by a dog at some point influence our ways from that moment on.

Just for fun I want to show you what I mean by giving a rather unknown example to prove my point.

Let’s say you are over 30 and tried already every diet in the world to loose a few pounds. And naturally, nothing worked. Well, one evening, rainy evening of course, you come across a little fluffy puppy abandoned just next to the garbage can in front of your house. You don’t necessarily like dogs, but this one seems different and so alone, maybe even a little sick, that you feel pity (you think) for him and take him in…just for the night. And then you keep him another night, and another one till he officially becomes your pet – you can’t deny it anymore. You walk him every day at fixed hours and, although you forgot all about your weight problem being too busy petting the little pet, you amazingly reached undreamed results in that particular problem. Surprised?

You shouldn’t be, it’s known (by some at least) that regular daily 10 – 15 minutes walks are the best diet of all. Try them on your own and you might get bored and give up. But with a dog, the walks are a must, they have to be done, you can’t miss any of them.

So, the little innocent dog not only made you a better person since you let him into your house (and heart), but also solved the problem you had that all your determination and lost money on diet products couldn’t solve.

If I wasn’t convincing enough, just try it. Adopt a dog from your local shelter. And miraculously you will be a different person.

April is Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Month

This April, the ASPCA will kick-off Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Month on April 7 when iconic buildings and landmarks across the country will support the ASPCA’s life-saving work as they light up in its signature color and “Go Orange for Animals.”

Dogs from Chicago Puppy Mill Bust Going Fast

I am very happy to see the quick response of people wanting to adopt these dogs. My main concern is that other dogs up for adoption are being left behind. Are they being adopted only because they are designer dogs or for the true love and commitment of caring for that dog for 10 to 15 years? Big Mutt's also make great companions and need loving homes too. I'm a big lovable Mutt. Please make adoption first when considering a new pet.

Love Maxxamillion

Chicago Puppy Mill Bust

The Cook County Sheriff’s Police busted a puppy mill tuesday on Chicago's Southwest Side. A total of 67 dogs were removed and taken to Chicago Animal Care & Control center at 2741 South Western Ave. It was reported in the local news this morning that the dogs will be taken to local rescue shelters were they will be up for adoption after their medical checkups. Thirty-eight-year-old Demetria Newell was charged with 67 counts of animal cruelty.

Maxxamillion going green for St. Patrick's Day

Maxxamillion going green for St. Patrick's Day 2009. Help save a life, and adopt a shelter pet this holiday or any day.

Maxxamillion March 2009

It's already March and I am going to really miss the snow. But I am still having fun playing in my back yard. Big Hooowl! Love Maxxamillion

Coolest Dog On The Planet

Maxxamillion just loves this cold weather and all the snow. He spends more time out side in this weather. But we have to time the amount of time he spends out-side when the temperature drops, he doesn't like it, but we have to force him in the house.

Here we go again, The peanut butter recall across the country will now include pet foods and pet snacks. Some pet foods are said to have been infected as well and are being recalled, These include PetSmart Grreat Choice Dog Biscuits and 'Peanut Corporation of America or Parnell's Pride'.

Major national brands of jarred peanut butter are not affected by the PCA recall. PCA does not sell peanut butter directly to consumers. PCA only sells peanut butter to institutions and food manufacturers (some of which use it as an ingredient in other processed/packaged foods). Some food manufacturers use PCA peanut butter or peanut paste in baked or processed foods, such as crackers, cookies, cakes or ice cream to name a few. The FDA and food manufacturers are working to identify products that may be affected, and to track the ingredient supply chain of those products to facilitate their removal from the marketplace. FDA

List of recalls for Pet Food Products from Brand 'Grreat Choice'

List of recalls for Pet Food Products from Brand 'Peanut Corporation of America or Parnell's Pride'

Pet Food Recalls And Warnings

I started a new lens on Squidoo about dog food recalls. This lens is about recent or past recalls of pet-foods or related items that could hurt or even kill our pets. Squidoo has one of the greatest community of people on line today, which makes it a great place to help us pet people get the word out on recalls and FDA warnings before its too late sometimes. If you have or know of any recalls please add them here or contact me. Paw Here