Animal Rescue's Pet of the Week is Fred, a handsome 4- to 5-year-old declawed orange/beige tabby who was found as a stray.
He appears to like dogs and other cats.
For details, call (717) 993-3232, e-mail info@animalrescueinc.org or visit www.animalrescueinc.org.
From Steve Dale's "Pet World":
Q: I know Chow Chows can be willful, and our dog is trying to dominate us.
The first hint was the Max would jump on the sofa when we weren’t home. He knows he’s not supposed to be up there, yet we find his hair on the sofa when we arrive home. The other day, I even caught him on the sofa.
I have to repeat over and over what I want him to do. I tried the Cesar (Millan) method, with mixed success.
How can I show my dog who’s boss?
Remember Arbor, the cat who was stuck in a tree until Brian the Tree Guy rescued him? He's looking for a home.
Lisa said Arbor gets along fine with her other cats, but her dogs don't like him.
He's now neutered, litter-trained and up-to-date on vaccinations.
For details, call Lisa at (717) 244-5493 or (717) 495-7441, or e-mail mysaygrace@arczip.com.
View the previous blog entry, with photos of Arbor being rescued from the tree.
From Steve Dale's "Pet World":
Q: My 3-year-old cat has a problem with constipation. I’ve had him to the vet three times since January to be ’unblocked.’
The first two times, I didn’t realize what was happening; he was vomiting and acting lethargic. The problem was so bad they had to put him under (anesthesia) at the clinic to remove the stool.
We now have the cat on a high-fiber prescription food and enulose twice daily. I’m hoping we can avoid this from happening again — or will it always be a problem?
Need spice in your life? Try me, Nutmeg!
I'm a young torti kitty who came to the HOKAFI shelter with my sister, who has since been adopted.
I LOVE toys! They are GREAT! I'm a cute, inquisitive kitty with lots of love to give, and I have the cutest little meow! I
'm spayed and up-to-date with my vaccines.
For details, call the Helen O. Krause Animal Foundation Inc. at (717) 697-3377, go to www.helenkrause.org or visit the shelter during adoption hours, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturdays.
From Cindy McDevitt, Best Friends Ambassador:
Dog lovers and lawmakers rallied at the State Capitol in Harrisburg, PA, May 14 to support new legislation for improving Pennsylvania's large commercial breeding kennels (puppy mills), targeting approximately 650 large-scale breeders. The bill defines commercial kennels as any facility that sells dogs to a dealer or pet shop, or sells more than 60 dogs a year.
Representative's James E. Casorio, Thomas R. Caltagirone and Gene D. DiGirolamo; and Special Deputy Secretary for Dog Law Enforcement Jessie Smith all spoke to the crowd with such enthusiasm and hope. People came in from the Lancaster area and even New Jersey.
A package of three bills: House Bill 2525, 2532 and 499 will mandate access to outdoor exercise areas which are to be twice the size of their (new) cage size, double the floor space and require solid flooring of cages, no longer allow any stacking of cages, clean water at all times, daily cleaning standards, lighting/ventilation standards, controlled temperature of 50-85 degrees, fire extinguishers in place.
They will also require some surgical procedures only be done by a licensed veterinarian, such as Cesareans and debarking. One sweet little puppy who was debarked by the practice of shoving a metal rod down her throat was present in the crowd.
As far as cruelty to animals, the legislation also requires owners of confiscated animals to pay for the costs of the animals care while it is confiscated, or give up ownership; increases the penalty for misdemeanor and felony animal cruelty; allows dog wardens to file charges of cruelty; and the dogs can no longer be shot after their money-producing days are over.
What you can do
The dogs still need YOUR HELP. These are fast acting bill -- they want to
have them in force by June 30, which means that we need you to contact your
legislators within the ASAP. They have a tremendous amount of
support, but still need more!
For More Information
Please, visit the official PA website www.doglawaction.com to find
out more, such as how to contact your legislator, or find a local newspaper to write a
letter. You can also sign up for additional news and updates.
Do you know an unsung hero who helps animals?
Nominate someone you know for the Animal Planet 2008 Hero of the Year today!
If you know a courageous canine who has heroically helped someone in need, then The Humane Society of the United States wants you to nominate him or her for the first annual Dogs of Valor Awards. You don't have to personally know the dog as long as you can tell the story!
The HSUS established the Dogs of Valor Awards to honor dogs who have exhibited an extraordinary sense of courage by heroically helping a person in need. To celebrate these animals, The HSUS is accepting nominations in two categories: companion dogs and working dogs.
Nominations should be submitted at humanesociety.org/dogsofvalor, and will be accepted from both dog guardians and non-guardians.
Deadline for entries is Friday, May 30 at 5 p.m. EDT. Winners will be chosen by a panel of celebrity judges, including Martina Navratilova, Candy Spelling, and Tamar Geller.
One grand-prize winner and three finalists will be chosen in each category. Winners will receive an original sterling silver dog tag by designer Kate Dwyer, founder/owner of California-based Bella Tocca Tags (bellatoccatags.com).
In addition, grand prize winners will receive a $250 shopping spree at Humane Domain, HSUS's official online store; and a copy of Tamar Geller's DVD learning series "Celebrate Your Dog! The Loved Way of Training" and her book "The Loved Dog: The Playful, Nonaggressive Way to Teach Your Dog Good Behavior" (tamargeller.com).
Questions about the nomination process and the awards can be sent to: dogsofvalor@humanesociety.org.
From PSPCA:
Putting an end to the cruelty and neglect that takes place at Pennsylvania's puppy mills is a top priority for the PSPCA. We need your help to protect and save the thousands of dogs that are harmed each year by the abusive practices at these dog factories. Ask your local representatives to support the following bills.
Berks County Representative Thomas Caltagirone has proposed changes to the state's cruelty laws that will improve conditions for dogs in commercial kennels. Currently, Pennsylvania dog owners can perform a variety of veterinary procedures on their dogs without medical supervision, including ear cropping, debarking and caesarean sections. Commercial kennel owners have been able to perform these procedures in unsanitary areas with little or no repercussions. Under Representative Caltagirone's proposed House Bill 2532, only licensed veterinarians will be able to carry out the operations. The amendments also grant the dog wardens who inspect commercial kennels the power, under certain circumstances, to file cruelty charges against kennels.
Westmoreland County Representative James Casorio has introduced legislation that will amend the state's Dog Law. House Bill 2525 requires the following for dogs over 12-weeks old in large commercial kennels: double the cage space; exams by a licensed veterinarian at least once a year or at each pregnancy; a solid floor on which to rest; access to an outdoor exercise area; and limits to the number of stacked cages. Kennel owners would be required to provide the following for all dogs, regardless of age: clean water at all times; remove dogs from their cages when the cages are being cleaned; housing facilities be kept between 50 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit at all times; sufficient ventilation and lighting in all kennels; smoke alarms and fire extinguishers in all kennels; euthanization performed by licensed vets only; and no more than six dogs housed in one cage (except for nursing mothers with litters).
Representative Casorio's bill would also give the Bureau of Dog Law Enforcement increased authority to penalize unlicensed kennels. In addition to these bills, Bucks County Representative Gene DiGirolamo introduced House Bill 499, which would increase the fines for those convicted of animal cruelty.
For details on all of the legislation, visit www.agriculture.state.pa.us/doglawaction/site/default.asp.
You can help ensure the passage of these important bills by writing to your local representative and asking him or her to vote for the changes to Pennsylvania's animal cruelty laws.
To find your representative's name and contact information, visit www.legis.state.pa.us. Write your own letter, or use the following template to let your voice be heard:
Dear: (fill in name here)
As a Pennsylvanian and animal lover, I am concerned about the Commonwealth's status as the "Puppy Mill Capital of the East."
There are more than 2,100 commercial breeding kennels in Pennsylvania. In many of these facilities, dogs are kept in deplorable conditions, over bred, abused and neglected, with little or no consequence for the kennel owner.
Representatives Caltagirone, Casorio and DiGirolamo have proposed amendments to the Commonwealth's animal cruelty and dog laws. This crucial legislation would prohibit some of the worst abuses in these kennels, help ensure enforcement of the state's animal cruelty law by those who oversee the regulation of these kennels and increase the fines for those convicted of animal abuse.
I am requesting your support of Representatives Caltagirone's, Casorio's and DiGirolamo's bills to amend the state laws to address the cruel practices in these kennels and the current lack of enforcement of the cruelty law.
The bills would prohibit dog owners from performing procedures such as ear cropping, tail docking of dogs more than three days old, debarking and cesarean sections, and instead require that these procedures be performed by a licensed veterinarian; require providing basic necessities for dogs, such as clean water at all times, cages with solid floors and room to exercise; and permit dog wardens to file cruelty charges against kennels.
Sincerely,
(Your Name)
(Address)
(City, State ZIP)
Thanks to investigator Lisa Ling, who went undercover into a handful of Pennsylvania puppy mills, the April 4 episode of The Oprah Winfrey Show revealed to millions of viewers the horrific abuses that go on in these large-scale breeding facilities.
This important episode will be shown again next Thursday, May 29, at 4:00 p.m. EST.
If your dog or cat will be joining your family trip this Memorial Day weekend, take steps to ensure his safety and comfort on the road or in the air. Learn what supplies you need and precautions to take to make sure everyone travels safe.
For travel safety tips, see Petside's Guide to Traveling with Pets.
Or, click here for tips on finding a pet sitter.
A yellow lutino cockatiel was lost April 12 on S.W. End Ave., Lancaster, PA. Her head and crest are a brighter color than the rest of her body; her belly and back are dirty white. She has bright orange cheeks and large feet that are pigeon-toed. She was a hand-fed baby and is very gentle. If you think you might have seen her, call 717-203-7473 or 717-666-5925. A reward is offered for her safe return.
A female orage, black & white tabby cat, resembling a calico, was lost May 17 in the South Albemarle Street area. She was wearing a black collar with hearts. Her belly was shaved from her recent spay surgery. If seen, call 817-9757. A reward is offered for her safe return.
A gray female cat named Chloe was lost from the Sherman Oaks area of Mount Wolf, PA. She's 7 years old and declawed. If seen, call 717-873-7714.
A gray & white neutered male named Coleman was lost on Third and Center Streets. He's front declawed, 12 years old, friendly and vocal. If seen, call Angie at 384-8406.
Two parakeets were lost if the Haines Acres area. Sunshine is yellow with green around tail feather area, and has a pink nose. Ocean is blue with a white face, black on wings. Call 717-600-0195 with any information.
I am e-mailing you because I'm very angry about what I just heard. A cat was hit by a car at 5 a.m. today at College & Richland Ave. Employees at Bickel called 911, and were told that nothing could be done.
They called again at 6, and again were told they couldn't do anything. Meanwhile, that poor animal was crying in agony. Apparently, it took until 9 a.m. for someone to get it to the SPCA.
I was under the impression that the city contracted with an animal control person to handle off hours. If this is not the case, then why isn't it?
If the city can't do anything about hurt animals, then at least tell people to call someone who cares enough about them, who can rush them to the Animal Emergency Clinic.
There should be a reference system for cases like this.
MARGARET REIS
YORK, PA
The Humane Society of the United States is offering grants of up to $2,000 to animal shelters, non-sheltered rescue/adoption groups and animal care and control agencies to help establish, expand, or publicize services or programs that assist individuals in caring for their pets during the current economic downturn.
Learn more at www.animalsheltering.org.
The good folks at the Humane League in Philadelphia, PA, convinced a nearby university to allow the release/rescue of the rats used in repetitive, pointless classroom psychology experiments.
This year, there are nearly double the number of rats as in previous years -- 70 rats, and whichever ones don't find homes will be killed.
E-mails to rescue lists and myspace bulletins have gotten very few offers of help. These rats are going to be gassed with carbon monoxide in late June if they have not found homes for them by that time.
The rats are all white albino males, very friendly and sociable.
If you live in the upstate NY area and can adopt or foster a rat, please e-mail Amber at info@syracuseanimalrights.com.
If you do not live in the upstate NY area, but are still interested in helping, please e-mail info@thehumaneleague.com.
For more information, visit: www.thehumaneleague.com/campaigns/animalrescue.htm.
Animal Rescue's Pet of the Week is Rosey Pumpkin, a 1½-year-old red-nose pit bull that has been patiently awaiting her new home since last October.
She is a favorite among the Animal Rescue dog walkers because of her incredible personality.
Rosey loves to sit on your lap, lives for belly rubs, thinks rope toys are heavenly and will go for as many walks as your legs can handle. She absolutely adores people, and can’t seem to get enough attention or affection from them.
If you are ready for a doting companion, come meet Rosey Pumpkin!
For details, call (717) 993-3232, e-mail info@animalrescueinc.org or visit www.animalrescueinc.org.
HOKAFI’s Pet of the Week is Tobi, a 6-year-old lovebug who adores adults and children. He is tattooed, housebroken, likes other dogs and walks well on a leash.
If you are looking for a well-behaved dog, who will make a great furry family member, this is the guy for you.
For details, call (717) 697-3377, go to www.helenkrause.org or visit the shelter during adoption hours, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturdays.
Harper is an energetic and loving 7-month-old puppy, who started limping when he was just 4 months old.
At first, his person thought Harper might have pulled a muscle or injured something while playing.
Then, the limping got worse. X-rays showed that Harper was suffering from hip dysplasia.
I’m so lonely; day after day, I just wait for someone to play with me, to love me, to take care of me. Would you like to play? Would you love me?
I’m very friendly and I really do like all other dogs. I grew up with my mother who passed away a few years ago, and I just haven’t been the same since. I have no health problems and no behavioral problems, so I won’t cost much -- just your time and attention.
My owner has a new job. His new schedule takes him away from home a lot, and now I’m alone quite a bit. He doesn’t like seeing me sad, and wants me to find a family that will love me as much as he does, but one that has time to spend with me. He wants me to be happy again.
If you think you have time to play, cuddle and love me, I’d sure like to come live with you. I’m through all the ‘puppy’ stuff, so there is no training needed.
I’m 10 years old and I’m a good dog.
I promise I’ll be your best friend.
If you want me to be your friend, please contact Cindy at cldepalma58@comcast.net; she knows how to find me.
I hope I get to meet you soon,
Lots of kisses,
For details on pets available for adoption, call the York County SPCA at (717) 764-6109, e-mail msmith@ycspca.org or visit the shelter at 3159 Susquehanna Trail North, (Manchester Township) York, PA. To fill out an adoption application, visit www.ycspca.org and click on "adopt a friend," which will take you to a link for the application. Pets adopted from the SPCA are spayed or neutered and receive necessary vaccinations as part of the adoption fee.
Frankie is a handsome adult Siamese mix who is looking for the right home. He was adopted but returned to the shelter -- his adopters felt he was afraid of the dogs in his new home because he was always hiding. Frankie likes
children and other cats. Come visit Frankie today; maybe he will be a perfect match for your family! His ID# is 47560.
Squeakers is a 4-year-old male orange tabby with a great personality. He likes children and other cats. Squeakers so badly wants a family to call his own! Could it be yours? His ID # is 45298.
Heaven is a sweet little angel who loves attention. She is so affectionate and purrs up a storm when you pet her. Heaven was hard to
photograph because she wanted to crawl in the photographer's lap the whole time. She was
found as a stray living under someone's deck. May 22 will be one full year
that Heaven has been at the shelter. She's been so patient, waiting for her new
family. Please visit Heaven at the shelter today! Her ID# is 42100.
Blackberry is a shelter favorite. She should be -- she's been at the shelter since October 2006! Sadly, Blackberry seems to just be overlooked. She's been patiently waiting for someone to notice what we already know about her
-- that she is super-sweet and will make a wonderful companion. Blackberry
was brought in as a stray. She's a very nice cat that gives
kisses, snuggles and really likes other cats. Stop in at the shelter and let
this wonderful cat find her way into your heart! Her ID# is 39473.
Jason is a very handsome guy who was found as a stray. He's very affectionate and will make a great new friend. If you are looking for
that perfect new companion, come to the shelter today and check Jason out!
His ID# is 46572.
Little Man is a small domestic shorthaired male who needed to find a new home when his owner's landlord said "no cats." He is used to living indoors and is a friendly boy. He likes children, other cats and even dogs. Let Little Man into your life to be your new indoor pal! His ID# is 47335.
Emma is a sweet girl who was found as a stray. She was pregnant and had a litter of kittens. Emma was not feeling too well when she was found, but has fully recovered. She likes children, cats and dogs. She would make a great
family pet. Come see if she is perfect for your family. Emma's ID# is 46406.
Tyler is a handsome 6-year-old brown and white tabby. His owner moved and couldn't keep him. Tyler likes dogs, but prefers to be the only feline in his
household. Tyler's ID# is 47217.
Oliver is a handsome adult domestic shorthaired male who ended up at the shelter because his owner no longer had enough time for him. He likes children and dogs. Oliver would love a new home to relax in and be loved. His ID# is 47161.
Oh, poor Huckleberry! He really could use a sweater! He is a domestic long-haired male who came to the shelter in poor health, but he's feeling much better now. He's so happy to be well-cared-for that he doesn't care that he
is having a bad hair day. He just loves and appreciates anyone who cares for
him! He is litter trained and is used to living indoors. He also likes
children and other cats. Can you give Huckleberry the love he deserves?
His ID# is 47115.
For details on pets available for adoption, call the York County SPCA at (717) 764-6109, e-mail msmith@ycspca.org or visit the shelter at 3159 Susquehanna Trail North, (Manchester Township) York, PA. To fill out an adoption application, visit www.ycspca.org and click on "adopt a friend," which will take you to a link for the application. Pets adopted from the SPCA are spayed or neutered and receive necessary vaccinations as part of the adoption fee.
Stevie is a lovely 5-year-old yellow Lab. Her previous owners felt that she "was too much work." Stevie seems overwhelmed by the shelter environment, but relaxes and comes out of her shell when she's outside. Stevie needs exercise, love and consistency in her life to thrive. She would be great for an active family that enjoys the outdoors as much as she does, or someone who is looking for a walking partner. She is housetrained and likes children and other dogs. Stevie's ID# is 47696.
Lady is an awesome 2-year-old German shepherd. Great girls like this usually get adopted pretty quickly, and she did ... twice. Lady seems to be having trouble finding the right owner. Her first adopter discovered that Lady had picked up a cold, and Lady was brought back to the shelter because the new owner didn't want to care for a sick dog. Lady got well and was adopted a second time. She was again brought back; this time because she needs some remedial work on housetraining. Animals, like humans, sometimes need help when they are sick, and sometimes need patience and guidance when they forget. Some humans would be very frustrated and confused by being bounced around like Lady has been, but she is a dog, and she has an amazing capacity to adapt, forgive and love. She needs a human with a matching willingness to be patient and loving with her. How about you? Visit her today! Her ID # is 47353.
Benson is such a cutie! He is an adult Jack Russell terrier, and definitely a lap dog. He walks perfectly on a leash. Benson's owner returned him to the shelter because their grandson was afraid of him. Benson would undoubtedly be very sad if he knew that, because he really is a friendly, kindhearted little dog. He is also housetrained. Benson would love for yours to be his forever home. His ID# is 47485.
Alazoo is a spunky bundle of fun! This shepherd mix came to the shelter as a stray, and is estimated to be about a year old. He is a very friendly boy, who will add joy to your life. Alazoo's ID # is 47105.
This beautiful girl is such a cute beagle, less than 6 months old. She was brought to the shelter, along with two siblings, as a cruelty case. They were living outdoors
in poor conditions. They are shy, but oh so sweet! Won't you take one home
today? Visit the shelter to find your perfect companion! Her ID# is 47629.
Jax is a great guy! He is a 3-year-old Australian cattle dog, brought to the shelter because his owner had "too many dogs." Jax is very
sweet and walks nicely on a leash. Jax has a great disposition and likes
children and other dogs. He is also housetrained. Could Jax be the perfect
addition to your family? Come check him out. His ID# is 47359.
Tora is an adorable, petite pit bull terrier who came to the shelter as a stray. She appears to be less than a year old. Tora has a
wonderful, gentle, affectionate personality. Stop by the shelter and let her
charm her way into your heart! Her ID# is 47322.
Diesel is a gorgeous 2-year-old pit bull terrier, who steals your heart and breaks it at the same time. You will fall in love with his stunning good looks -- he is a deep brindle with contrasting white markings. He is so fearful and
overwhelmed by the shelter environment right now, that's what breaks your
heart. Diesel is slowly coming out of his shell with the love and patience
shelter staff and volunteers have been giving him. He wags his tail and will
cover you with kisses to say thank you. Diesel's previous owner moved and couldn't keep him. He is
housetrained and likes children and other dogs. Diesel also walks nicely on
a leash and has a calm personality. Stop by the shelter and let him
steal yours heart! His ID# is 47314.
Corter is a wonderful older yellow Lab, who was found as a stray and his finder initially intended to keep him because of his great personality. However, Corter was turned over to the shelter when it was discovered that he has a
tendency to escape from the yard when not directly supervised. He will need
a dedicated owner who will keep him on a leash and take him for walks to
release that "roaming" energy. Corter is a real sweetheart who asks for so
little, but will give you so much love in return. Visit the shelter
today to see if Corter can be your new love. His ID# is 47406.
Bruin is a handsome adult male pit bull terrier who was found as a stray. He has a wonderful disposition and is very friendly. Bruin is calm and
kindhearted, and will make a loyal companion. Visit him today! His ID# is 47252.
A female calico cat with white paws, wearing a purple collar with a bell, was lost May 14 in Madison at Valley Manor. Call (717) 650-4155 with any information.
A gray shorthair cat, front declawed, wearing a maroon collar, was lost May 8 near Walker Avenue, Dover, PA, area. If seen, call (717) 318-5090.
A small gray female cat named Daisy was lost on Mother's Day from Country View Estates off Plank Road, Hopewell Township. If seen, call (717) 235-3306.
A gray & white male cat, neutered and declawed, was lost May 5. Last seen around Duke Street in North York. A reward is offered. Call (717) 852-8433 or 846-8918.
The Central Pennsylvania Animal Alliance and Mostly Mutts would like to introduce you to a senior canine who is in search of a permanent “Wonder”ful home!
Stevie Wonder is a special needs Lhasa/Shih Tzu mix who is diabetic and needs insulin daily. Stevie is legally blind but can see a little out of his left eye. He was found wandering aimlessly in the road and was in shock.
He is now stable and doing quite well. He runs “with the pack” at the shelter and enjoys attention from people and going for walks. Stevie requires a family or person who is capable of giving him his insulin shots. He cannot navigate stairs.
Miracles do happen, don’t they? We are all hoping for one for this amazing little survivor. Stevie was one of the featured canine models in CPAA’s Compassion for Fashion Show in April of 2007. He certainly looks dashing in his tuxedo!
Please consider opening your heart and home to this fine, deserving fellow! Let Stevie Wonder become your best canine friend. For more information or to meet him, e-mail robinp2@evenlink.com or call Mostly Mutts at (570) 374-0330.
CPAA is an all volunteer, 501(c)(3) charitable organization committed to ending the killing of cats and dogs as the means of animal population control. For more information, please visit www.cpaa.info.
Animal Rescue Inc.'s Pet of the Week is Onyx, a 3-year-old black-and- gray toy poodle. His owner, after becoming ill, surrendered Onyx to a shelter in hopes of him finding a new home.
This adorable little guy is housebroken, neutered and up-to-date on vaccines. Onyx knows some commands, such as “sit,” “down,” “come” and “play dead.” He has a great personality and a lot of spunk.
For details, call (717) 993-3232, e-mail info@animalrescueinc.org or visit www.animalrescueinc.org.
From the Associated Press:
CHICAGO — The Chicago City Council has repealed its controversial two-year-old ban on foie gras (fwah-GRAH’), a delicacy made of duck and goose liver.
The vote was led by Mayor Richard M. Daley, who called the measure that went into effect in August 2006 the “silliest” ordinance the council’s ever passed.
Supporters of the ban consider foie gras cruel because geese and ducks are force-fed to make their livers bigger.
The measure passed Wednesday by a vote of 37-6 with no debate.
The Illinois Restaurant Association and a local restaurant had filed a lawsuit in federal court seeking to overturn the ban, but a U.S. District Court judge dismissed the effort last June.
RETURNED TO OWNER A Chesapeake Bay Retriever, dark chocolate brown (looks like a chocolate Labrador) was lost Friday, May 9, from Canine Clippers' boarding kennel at 2789 South Queen Street, Dallastown, PA (York Township).
She's about 60 lbs., very friendly and her name is Delilah. She wears a red collar.
Delilah has been seen in the areas of Feree Hill Road, Ironstone Hill Road, Honey Valley Road, Spartan Road and Hess Farm Road.
If you see her, please call Jim Johnson at (717) 683-6455 or Stephanie at (717) 683-6456. A reward is offered for her safe return.
HOKAFI’S Pet of the Week is Turquoise, a gray and white young female cat who was found in a shrub as a kitten. She is a fun little girl, and gets along with other kitties.
Turquoise loves food, food, food, people and toys — in that order.
For details, call (717) 697-3377, go to www.helenkrause.org or visit the shelter during adoption hours, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturdays.
Heavenly Paws Animal Shelter's Pet of the Week is No. 08-019, a beautiful orange and white female cat with golden eyes. She’s approximately 10 months old.
She’s very affectionate, and gives kisses by putting her paws on your shoulder and rubbing her mouth on you.
For details, call 495-1727, e-mail an15nb38@comcast.net or visit heavenlypaws.wordpress.com.
Pets for the Elderly Foundation, based in Ohio, will pay up to $50 of the adoption costs -- fees, medical exams, spaying or neutering -- when people 60 or older adopt a cat or dog from one of 58 animal shelters in 31 states.
According to the foundation's website, The Humane Society of Harrisburg Area is a participating shelter.
For details and a list of participating shelters, visit www.petsfortheelderly.org or call, toll-free, (866) 849-3598.
May is Pet Cancer Awareness Month. Find out more at www.petcancerawareness.org/home.aspx.
A dark gray male cat with white chest and white paws was found May 11 on Jackson Street in York, PA. He's very friendly. E-mail scarrig@ycp.edu.
A male cat was found on Oakland Road, Dover, PA. Call (717) 764-5720.
A female beagle/foxhound mix was found May 4 on the PA/MD line. Call (410) 357-5890 and leave a message.
An older brown & black mixed-breed dog with a stubbed tail and short legs was found in Dover, PA. Call (717) 487-5866 to identify.
A black & white female kitten was lost from Seven Valleys Road near Rutter's. Call (717) 792-1810 or 659-7671 with any information.
A female gray cat with white under neck and on feet, was lost March 26 in the area of Derry Road and Sunset. Her name is Terri and she's 7 months old. If seen, call (443) 910-4005.
A male gray tabby with a white trangle shape around mouth, nose and neck, and white paws, was lost in the Ashley Farms area of Dover Township. He's declawed. If seen, call Robin at (717) 324-0527.
A 5-month-old male pitbull mix, tan with white patch on his chest, is missing from Belvedere Avenue, between Princess and King. He was wearing a black "bad to the bone" collar with pink & blue tags. A reward is offered. Call (717) 858-9519.
By MIKE HOOVER
Daily Record/Sunday News
Tired of waiting for someone to do something, Michael “Beeper” Zeigler climbed a 100-foot oak tree in Lower Windsor Township to rescue Tinkerbell the cat.
Tinkerbell was stuck in the tree at the Zeigler Trailer Park for four days.
Zeigler grabbed the orange-and-white tiger-striped cat, who was about 75 feet up, said the cat’s owner, Allison March.
He then climbed down and tossed the cat to people who were holding a blanket below, she said.
Zeigler went up the tree after local firefighters stopped by Thursday to see if they could help but could not. Power lines were too close to the tree to use the ladder truck.
March said she hasn’t had a chance to thank Zeigler, the brother of one of her neighbors.
“He saved my cat. He is so awesome. I am going to send him flowers or something,” March said.
She said she learned of the rescue about 10 p.m. Thursday after returning home from being fitted for a bridesmaid dress for an upcoming wedding.
March said Tinkerbell bounced off the blanket and ran. She said she heard Tinkerbell scratching at her trailer door about midnight.
Other than being hungry, Tinkerbell was fine.
March said her little girls, Nikita, 4, and Jaden, 3, were happy to see that Tinkerbell had returned.
“They were hugging her. She slept in their bed like she always does,” March said.
Blog editor's note: This story might sound familiar, but it's a DIFFERENT cat, and this one still needs help to get down out of the tree. And the tree is taller. (The cat stuck in a tree last week was rescued by Brian Wike of Dallastown, also known as "Brian the Tree Guy," who was considering adopting the cat, last I heard.)
By MIKE HOOVER
Daily Record/Sunday News
Tinkerbell is stuck.
About four days ago, the orange, tiger-striped cat climbed a 100-foot oak tree at Zeigler Trailer Park in Lower Windsor Township.
Now, she can’t get down, leaving about 50 residents feeling helpless as she meows for help.
“She is screaming her head off. It is dehydrated and crying for help. It has attracted the whole darn park,” said resident Rebecca “Becky” Socash.
“Everyone in the park has tried to do something. They have tried climbing the tree. It is too high and too far up to get her.”
Tinkerbell has climbed so high up that she can no longer be seen, said the cat’s owner, Allison March.
March bought Tinkerbell at a pet store about a year ago for her little girls: Nikita, 4, and Jaden, 3. The girls do not know the cat is missing.
“I don’t want them to see the cat in the tree. My daughters would freak out. I don’t want them crying. It breaks my heart,” she said.
March said her boyfriend and another man tried to rescue Tinkerbell.
“I don’t want them falling and busting their legs or falling and killing themselves,” March said.
March called 911 and was told fire companies no longer get cats out of trees.
She asked Lower Windsor Township Police and the Craley and Leo Fire departments for help.
Lower Windsor Township Police Chief David Sterner suggested calling a tree service.
It is not safe for police to go up a tree for a cat, and fire departments are concerned about the liability, Sterner said.
Someone could get bitten and fall out of the tree or get rabies, he said.
“I feel bad. But we just can’t be climbing trees for every cat that goes up a tree. We don’t want to be a bad guy with this. But it is not a police issue,” Sterner said.
Leo Fire Chief David Stump said he has not been contacted about Tinkerbell. In his 20-plus years in fire services, he said, he has helped rescue a handful of cats from trees.
If contacted, he said, he might send someone to evaluate if the fire company can help.
Firefighters answer all kinds of calls, including animal rescues, Stump said. Just last week, he rescued six ducklings from a storm drain in the Dairyland Square in Red Lion.
Sterner and Stump said the cat will eventually find its way out of the tree.
“Sooner or later, when the cat gets hungry enough, the cat will come down,” Sterner said.
“I have never seen a cat skeleton in a tree.”
Blog editor's note #2: While cats usually do come down, if the cat has been up there for days, it's already quite hungry and it's not likely to find its way down without help.
Cats are prone to hepatic lipidosis (fatty liver disease) when they don't eat for several days. Lacking food, the cat's body starts sending fat cells to the liver to process into lipoproteins for fuel. Cats' livers are not terribly efficient at processing fat, and much of the fat is stored in the liver cells. Left untreated, eventually the liver fails and the cat dies.
In cases where cats have starved to death before figuring out how to come down, there wouldn't be skeletons in trees, because when the cat dies, it's no longer able to hold onto the tree.
The Central Pennsylvania Animal Alliance will hold a general meeting 7 to 9 p.m. Tuesday, May 13, at Isaac’s Restaurant in the West Shore Plaza, Lemoyne, PA .
Individuals interested in learning more about CPAA and volunteer opportunities are invited to attend to meet representatives from CPAA member rescues and shelters.
May’s guest speaker will be Amy Wimmersberger, a founder of “The Merrick Fund Foundation,” whose discussion topic will be the Fund’s provisions for catastrophic and emergency medical care for un-owned animals.
CPAA is also seeking volunteers for our “Woofstock” Riverfront Park Event which will be held Sunday, September 28, 2008.
For details, visit www.cpaa.info.
Pennsylvania Governor Ed Rendell is preparing to introduce a bill that would change the way commercial dog breeders do business in the state.
He's doing it with a new round of support brought on by Oprah Winfrey and her recent probe of puppy mills.
From WPXI.com:
BULLSKIN TOWNSHIP, Pa. -- A cruel collar forced a dog to undergo surgery. The mixed breed border collie was found wearing a collar full of fishhooks; and one of the hooks created a hole in the dog's neck.
Humane officers at the SPCA in North Union told Channel 11 this was an unusual case of animal cruelty and they have no idea who is responsible, or why someone would do something so terrible.
The dog is recovering from surgery to remove a fish hook from his neck -- one of 15 that someone had attached to the inside of his collar. SPCA Humane Officer Elizabeth Davidson said a resident found the dog wandering along Englishman Hill Road in Bullskin Township.
“When we found the collar it was extremely tight on the dog,” Davidson said.
No one knows for sure how just how long the dog, which rescuers named Hooks, had been walking around with the collar full of fish hooks. But humane officers want to get to the bottom of this, and soon.
Davidson said if anyone has information on owner of dog or knows how the dog may have ended up in that condition, to let animal officials know.
Hooks is on antibiotics to prevent an infection.
Humane officers said if the dog had not gotten treatment when he did, he probably would have died within a few days.
Animal Rescue's Pet of the Week is Mercedes, a 4½-year-old gorgeous girl with a great personality, gentle and loving.
At her former home, Mercedes was kept in a crate 23 hours a day, and she truly enjoys the freedom of exploring the back office at the shelter. She has become a greeter to the public and a constant companion to the office staff.
Mercedes will need an experienced owner who will guide her so that she does NOT develop separation anxiety.
Mercedes would probably do best in a home without other animals or young children.
For details, call (717) 993-3232, e-mail info@animalrescueinc.org or visit www.animalrescueinc.org.
From Alley Cat Allies:
This morning, millions of Americans learned about the growing movement to help feral cats in a feature article in the nation’s most popular daily newspaper, USA Today.
Feral cats, along with their advocates and caretakers, are finally getting the national media attention and recognition they deserve.
And, as the article indicates, Alley Cat Allies is leading the way. Alley Cat Allies has worked for over 17 years on a national level to bring attention to feral cats and raise awareness about what they are, how they live, who cares for them, and how they are treated in our outmoded animal control system.
As this article proves, our mission to stop the killing of cats by animal control pounds and shelters and promote humane care is a movement whose time has come. Thank you for your support in making this great news possible!
For the cats, Becky Robinson President
From the Associated Press:
The Humane Society of the United States released video footage Wednesday of sick and injured livestock the group says were mistreated at auction sites and stockyards where cattle are sold for slaughter.
The group released videos shot during April and May showing downed cows abandoned for hours at facilities in Maryland, New Mexico, Pennsylvania and Texas. The video was posted on the group’s Web site, at video.hsus.org.
“We found downed cows in a state of ill health, with no relief provided to the animals,” said Wayne Pacelle, the Humane Society’s president and chief executive.
Downed cattle may pose a higher risk of contamination from E. coli, salmonella or mad cow disease because they typically wallow in feces and their immune systems are often weak.
An orange & white cat named Harry was lost Aug. 1 from Kurtz Avenue in York, PA. He can be friendly, but sometimes very scared.
Microchip # 474D570906 (Home Again).
If found, call (888) 466-3242.
The C.V.Y.B.A. Rink A girls' team presented the Adams County SPCA with a donation check for $330.30 earlier this year. The members of the team raised money throughout their season by asking family and friends for donations based on the points they scored in their games. Pictured are (from left) Kaelyn Long, Annie Miller, Ashlyn Nailor, Lyric Lebo, Breanne Sauter, Madison Smith, Jenna Plump, Haley Luckabaugh and Ayanna Johnson, along with Lisa Conklin, Director of Development at Adams County SPCA. Not pictured is Genevieve Rikard.
DogsInDanger.com shows pictures of cute dogs that are scheduled to be euthanized, including how many hours the dog has left to live.
Thanks to a grant, Castaway Critters and the Humane Society of Harrisburg Area will be offering free spay/neuter services to feral cats received from residents of the City of Harrisburg every Wednesday (BY APPOINTMENT) at the shelter, 7790 Grayson Road, Harrisburg, PA.
The cats must be dropped off at the shelter between 8:30 and 9:30 a.m. on Wednesday mornings. The cats must be checked in at the front desk and proof of residency, such as a driver's license, must be provided.
PLEASE DO NOT DROP OFF THE CATS WITHOUT CHECKING IN AT THE FRONT DESK.
For details or to schedule an appointment, call Castaway Critters at (717) 831-5010 (Mailbox #2) or e-mail ALR@paonline.com.
From Carrie Trimmer, the owner of Who Let the Dogs Out:
We all want our pets to be healthy and happy, but in going about our daily routines we can easily forget to give things like nutrition, exercise and potential hazards active thought. By nature, we are creatures of habit and I encourage you to rethink your usual pet routines and see where you could improve and make life better for your devoted, furry family members.
Nutrition is probably the single most important thing we can supply for the long-term health of our pets. Poor nutrition can lead to many health problems, such as allergies, organ failure, cancer and even behavioral abnormalities.
Take a look at the list of ingredients in your pet’s food. Because pet food manufacturers are required to list the ingredients in their product according to dry weight, in descending order, the first 10 ingredients are most important. Here's what to look for:
Quality animal protein sources such as chicken, turkey, lamb, beef, salmon - not "meat" or "meal"
Healthy fat sources such as fish, flaxseed, sesame or sunflower oils
Quality whole grains such as brown rice, barley or whole oats
Natural preservatives such as Vitamin C, Vitamin E or Rosemary
Here's what you want to avoid:
Peanut hulls, wheat/wheat gluten, soybeans have very little nutritional value and can produce chronic constipation.
Beet pulp sugar and other sweeteners can create hyperactive and depressive behavior and could also lead to diabetes.
Artificial colors and preservatives
By educating ourselves on proper nutrition, we can help ensure a long, happy, healthy life for the pets who give so much to us.
Please consult with your veterinarian about proper nutrition for your pet. The guidelines above do not take into consideration any special dietary needs of pets with known health problems. Your veterinarian will be able to recommend a diet based on your pet and its particular needs.
* * * * *
Who Let the Dogs Out? provides professional in-home petsitting and daily dog walks to pets residing in the York area. To learn more about the company, visit www.letdogsout.com.
On May 2, Belco Community Credit Union introduced the first pet savings account in PA.
Belco’s Critter Club is aimed at pet owners looking for a fun way to save for their pets’ medical bills and other expenses, this new savings account features no minimum balance requirement and easy access to funds. A $5 membership account at Belco is required to open a Critter Club account.
Prior to launching the product, Belco employees researched the increase in pet spending. They found that 63 percent of homeowners have one or more pets, and that pet spending has more than doubled in the past 10 years. Currently, Belco is the only area financial institution offering a savings account exclusively for pets.
Members with a Critter Club account will receive discounts at local “pet partners” as well as be entered into a monthly prize drawing when they deposit $75 or more. Members may choose to have funds deposited via automatic transfer, and funds are available for withdraw at any time.
The account currently pays 0.85 percent APY on balances of $5 or more. Belco members with more than one pet are encouraged to open multiple accounts and to “name” each account using their pets’ names.
To promote the pet club, Belco is planning to participate in several pet-related community events, starting with the Humane Society of Harrisburg Area’s 5K Run/Walk for Animals May 17 at the Wildwood Lake Sanctuary in Harrisburg.
The Central Pennsylvania Animal Alliance (CPAA) and Furry Friends Network would like to introduce you to a very deserving and adoptable dog, who is appealing to the world -- “in his own words”:
Although I don’t keep track of birthdays, I believe it’s true when they say I am about 4 years old. I live with a foster Mom who has her hands full with lots of other dogs. She has been kind enough to share some of her space with me until it is my turn to become someone’s special dog. I think about it every day, and keep my hopes high that we will meet soon.
Meanwhile, I am preparing for that special day. One of my friends comes to take me for car rides, another takes me out for walks. I absolutely LOVE riding in the car. Everyone laughs when they see me do my happy dance at the sound of “let’s get in the car!”
I love to learn, so when “sit”, “down” and “stay” were taught to me, I picked up on them quickly.
I hope someone will consider me as their only male dog. There are some times when I feel uncomfortable around other dogs. It confuses me, because other times I feel fine! I have shared space with cats and had fun with older children.
I am energetic and eager to please. If there is a place to nestle in front of the TV, I won’t disappoint you, affection is my middle name. I have heard people whisper that with this combination, I will make somebody very happy. And that is what I want to do, spend the rest of my years being devoted to the person who makes me theirs.
With paws and fingers crossed, Jordan and Mary (Trainer)
Hi, I'm Jordan, a German shepherd mix who is looking for a place to permanently call home.
Furry Friends Network is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization – for more information on Jordan, visit www.furryfriendsnetwork.com and click on Adoptable Pets, or call Mary at (717) 268-1866.
CPAA is an all volunteer, 501(c)(3) charitable organization of over 60 area shelters and rescue groups working together to save the lives of dogs, cats, and other companion animals through public education, increased adoption rates, and an aggressive spay/neuter program. For details, e-mail zella@cpaa.info or visit www.cpaa.info.
Recently, eBay Foundation pledged more than $330,000 in “seed grant” funds to help build a new Puppy Care Center at Best Friends Animal Sanctuary.
For abused, neglected and cast-off puppies and mother dogs, the Puppy Care Center at Best Friends will offer safe haven. A place to heal. A chance to join a loving, forever family.
For details, visit www.bestfriends.org/puppies.
Leash Luggage keeps everything you need while walking your dog in one convenient and organized place. T
Leash Luggage holds and dispenses doggy bags for easy cleanup; it has a pocket for treats, a special key holder and a place for your ID; and it attaches to any style of leash.
Leash Luggage is available in several different styles and colors. Check them out at www.leashluggage.com.
Say goodbye to spills, splashes, and stops. The To Go Bowl is the one and only travel water bowl for dogs to fit conveniently and securely into a car’s cup holder, keeping water accessible and handy during road trips.
No more stops for a water break, and no more worries, the To Go Bowl comes complete with a splashguard and lid. It also has storage space in its removable base for treats or dry dog food.
Check it out at www.furrytravelers.com.
The Bella Lucca Collection offers designer clothing tailored for the sophisticated dog.
From luxurious outerwear to delightful walking harnesses and carriers, each piece in this collection packs high style and attention to detail.
Looking for a spring trenchcoat, or a colorful quilted carrier tote bag? The Bella Lucca Collection has it!
To view the entire collection, visit www.bellaluccacollection.com.
Help your dogs survive the dog days of summer with a Cool Vest.
It's made with a special water- absorbing fabric without any chemical gel crystals. By simply soaking the adjustable, fashionable vest in water, it provides a protective layer from direct and indirect sunlight and heat.
The Cool Vest is washable, extremely light, and doesn’t require refrigeration. Find out more at www.coolvest4dog.com.
HOKAFI’s Pet of the Week is Jeffrey, an approximately 4-year-old boxer mix with adorable eyes. He is a loving, calm, affectionate dog who is eager to please. Jeffrey is neutered, microchipped,
up-to-date on vaccines and appears to be housebroken.
For details, call (717) 697-3377, go to www.helenkrause.org or visit the shelter during adoption hours, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturdays.
Heavenly Paws Animal Shelter's Pet of the Week is Sandal, a gorgeous 2-year-old male flamepoint Balinese who was surrendered by a breeder.
He was adopted into a home with three other cats, but the male cat was beating up on Sandal, so he was returned to the shelter. The adopter said Sandal was very loving and she had no problems with him.
For details, call (717) 495-1727, e-mail an15nb38@comcast.net or visit heavenlypaws.wordpress.com.
From the Associated Press:
WEST MIDDLESEX, PA -- State police in Mercer County say they believe all-terrain vehicle riders are responsible for the dragging death of a 10-year-old blind pony.
Owner Tory Morgan found Kahlua’s mangled body Wednesday afternoon in a pasture in Shenango Township.
Authorities say the animal’s back legs were broken and large pieces of skin had been ripped away from its legs, chest and belly.
Police believe the animal had been roped and then dragged behind an ATV.
Authorities say four other horses had cuts and scratches, possibly from running through trees to escape their attackers.
Morgan says Kahlua was a friendly animal that carried children on its back.
Kahlua is a breed known as Pony of the Americas.
There is a $500 reward for information on the attack.
Brian "The Tree Guy" Wike of Dallastown rescued a cat Friday afternoon that was stuck 60 feet up in a tulip tree for three days.
Land owner Lisa Catherman said she tried for days to find someone to help. The East Prospect Fire Company offered, but firefighters couldn't get the ladder truck up the Lower Windsor Township farm lane.
Wike, who owns a tree service, put a 30-foot ladder against the tree, then used ropes to pull himself up another 30 feet to reach the kitty.
The male cat devoured food at Seth and Lisa Cathermans' home in Lower Windsor Township on Friday afternoon. The Cathermans -- who already have a menagerie of pets, including eight cats -- said they're not sure what they'll do with the cat.
(Photos by Bil Bowden, York Daily Record/Sunday News photographer)
From a reader:
CAT HAS BEEN RESCUED We could really use some help. My husband and I have a stray young cat stuck in our tree (at least 60 ft. up) behind our home and no one seems to want to help rescue it.
I know this is a long shot and a strange request, but maybe someone could help us rescue this cat before it's too late. I've exhausted every resource I know, and all I've gotten from the fire dept. and police is "shoot it down" ... the SPCA doesn't deal with this, and animal control doesn't waste their time with cats, just dogs.
I just don't know what to do at this point; it's killing me to hear it's desperate meows for help. So I guess I'm asking for suggestions, ideas and help on how to get a stray kitty out of a tree.
We're worried sick about this cat. It's getting cold at night and calling for ugly weather so we're getting more & mored worried for the cat's welfare. Our 30 ft. ladder isn't even getting close to it.
We did put a can of tuna on the highest branch we could reach, hoping it'll come down for that. But as time goes on we're having our doubts. I called the animal emergency clinic and they said to call the police or fire company, which I did, and they said they can't help and recommended shooting it.
I'm truly at a loss, so if anyone has an idea on how to help this forlorn kitty, please e-mail me at mysaygrace@mail.arczip.com.
Thank you,
Lisa
