ANIMAL CONNECTION

Archive for the ‘Companion Animals’ Category

Paige with Rudy and Dakota

Greyhounds can turn on light switches, peek around corners for incoming crowds and check out in grocery lines.

They are Purple Heart Veteran Greyhound Service Dogs, also known as furry lifesavers, for sufferers of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder.

These service animals are part of a new local initiative that is an extension of the Second Chance at Life Greyhound and Inmate Prison Partnership Program.

The dogs undergo 10 weeks of training at Gadsden Correctional Institution, and veterans can apply to be paired with them at no cost.

Retired racing canines appreciate the unconditional love, and veterans benefit from the protective companionship.

“Greyhounds will accompany veterans everywhere and help give them confidence as they perform their everyday activities in life,” said Joanne Wuelfing, who co-runs the Southwest Florida branch of the Purple Heart Program with Ken Wuelfing.   Here is a link for a fundraiser they would like to promote:  http://bikersanddogs.org/ .  Let Joanne know if you would like to get involved.  You can also contact me and I will get you connected with her.

Nickel, a greyhound who once competed under the moniker Regal Queenie, is an example of one potential pal for a veteran. Sox is another.

“We have many veterans returning from war who are unable to cope with life due to PTSD and they could really do well with dogs like Nickel or Sox,” Ken Wuelfing said. “PTSD in one of the biggest problems facing our veterans returning from war, and we owe it to our veterans to assist in any way we can.”

The Wuelfings became involved in the effort after adopting their own pet, a greyhound named Seymour, two years ago.

Seymour was trained in prison for obedience and could not be more loyal, the couple said.

Seymour

Greyhounds, as a breed, were chosen for the program because of their relaxed, calming demeanor, an attribute that helps PTSD patients who often get easily upset.

“The greyhounds learn how to block their owner in front and cover in the back, or walk in a circle around the veteran to keep people away from him,” Joanne Wuelfing said. “They can be taught that, if someone is coming up behind them, to alert the veteran.

“In Home Depot, for example, they have those tall, scary aisles, and the dog can be taught to check out the end of the aisle to make sure there’s no one around the corner that will alarm the veteran.”

If a veteran experiences night tremors, a greyhound might be trained to lick its owner’s face to wake him or her from an awful slumber.

The dogs can ring bells. They can lie on top of their owner’s chest for comfort.

The program is currently seeking foster families to introduce service dogs-in-training to everyday activities for 10 or more weeks.

If you know anyone in the military who are looking for additional income, have them contact me.  paige@animalconnectionshow.com

A puppy, who is said to be the smallest surviving canine in the world, defied the odds and lived despite her extremely small size. Thus, she’s been named Beyonce, due to the song ‘Survivor’ penned by the superstar singer.

Now, about two weeks old, she is just the size of an iPhone and weighs 4 ounces. This actually indicates she’s making healthy progress, as when born, she was only the size of a business card.

To watch video of Beyonce the puppy, click here.

According to World Records Academy, Beyonce has set the new world record for Smallest Puppy.

Her mother is a dachshund mix named Casey who was found living on the street and was picked up by animal control.

Earlier this year, The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) “. . . announced that it has teamed up with WebThriftStore.com to launch an online thrift store where its supporters can sell unneeded goods on behalf of the ASPCA, which will receive 80 percent of the sales proceeds.”

It is understood that national non-profit organizations must fundraise in order to meet their mission of helping people and/or animals in their designated field.  In fact, in order to help others the development person or group within a charitable organization is often viewed as the foundation from which the organization launches all its good works.  We are a capitalistic society and money continues to  drive the work we do and often how successful we become.

The non-profit world is often viewed as different because its goals are usually more altruistic than those in the for-profit domain, but when it comes to national non-profits and local non-profit concerns of the same defined mission is there an imaginary line in place that might get crossed that harms fundraising efforts of one or the other?

Annie and Her Favorite Stuffed Animal

It’s the New Year.  I wonder if our pets know it’s a time to of rejuvenation and starting over?  This New Years Eve, there were a lot of fireworks going off all over.  I noticed that Annie liked hanging out with her favorite stuffed animal.  I wondered if she was protecting it?  Then I noticed that Oliver, my other ferret, ran upstairs and got his favorite stuffed animal.  I watched him as he brought it from the room upstairs all the way downstairs, then hid it.  I was able to get my camera out in time to get most of it.  If he did this on New Years Eve, I wonder if he will do it again?  I will keep an eye out and try to get a better video of him.

What are some things you have noticed your pets doing on New Years, if anything?  Do any of your animals have favorite toys that they cherish?  It seem animals are like small children, they get comfort from being with something they feel close to, even if adults don’t understand it.

Oliver, the Ultimate Climber

Click Here to see the Youtube Video

It’s inevitable this time of year to make resolutions for the coming twelve months.  We all say we’ll do or say something new or improved in the new year, but the real importance lies not in what the human species is going to do for themselves but what they will do for the animals they have promised to protect and love forever.

Resolutions that concentrate on the health and happiness of your four-legged companions can not only add years to their lives, but bring you the satisfaction of knowing you’re doing the best to make this year a great one for them.  This is what you do to show your commitment to your four-legged family and thank them for the joy they bring into your home.

From the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) comes a list of some of their most popular pet resolutions from last year that once again apply in the new year:

Check-Up Time
You go to the doctor regularly—and so should your pet.  This year, give your veterinarian the chance to notice any developing illnesses and the opportunity to take care of them right away.  If it’s been a year or more since your pet has seen a vet, make that appointment today!

Protect Their Pearly Whites
Does your pet have morning breath—all day long?  Your cat or dog may need dental care. Pledge to check your pet’s teeth and gums at least once a week, and ask your vet to show you how you can prevent dental disease by brushing regularly.

Shake It Up!
We all could use a bit more movement in our lives—make a resolution to shake it up with your pets!  Healthy adult dogs need at least 30 minutes of aerobic exercise twice a day—jogging, swimming and playing at the dog park are all great options. Get kitty fit with rousing play sessions of chase and fetch with furry toys, small balls or toy mice.

Battle the Bulge
Pets depend on us to regulate their nutrition and activity levels.  It’s important to follow strict feeding guidelines, since overweight pets face increased health risks. This year, vow to lay off those table scraps and consider switching to a well-balanced, high-quality pet food.

Poison-Proof Your Home
With various dangers lurking in corners and cabinets, the home can be a minefield of poisons for our pets. Don’t leave it up to Fido or Fluffy to keep themselves safe. Resolve to make your home a safe place for your pets.

Get a New Look!
In 2012, give your pet the gift of glam!  A regular grooming regimen will make your pet feel proud, pampered and healthy.  Take a peek at our easy grooming tips for dogs and cats.

IDs, Please
Keep ‘em close to your heart by outfitting all of your animal companions—even indoor-only pets—with an ID tag.  Implanted microchips are also a smart option, but keep in mind that microchips are only as good as the information provided to the chip’s company, so keep your contact info up-to-date!

Of course, your four-legged friend may have his or her own perspective on making resolutions for the new year.  From PetPlace.com come ten New Year’s resolutions that our four-legged doggie friends might want to make for 2012.  See if your furry companion agrees with these:

Resolution #1: I will eat less and exercise more.
Too many nights on the couch, too many dog biscuits and too little time running around the local dog park has made me a little, well, fluffier.  I don’t think the old “I’m-just-big-boned” excuse will work anymore.  I resolve to bug my owner to take me out to the doggy park several times a week.

Resolution #2: I will beg less.
I’ve got begging down to a fine art – he’s puddy in my paws – but it sure is demeaning.  I promise to reserve the begging for worthwhile things, like going out to the park and T-bone steak.

Resolution #3: I will recognize the difference between furniture and fire hydrants.
I promise not to treat the furniture and walls the way I do fire hydrants.  It drives my owners batty and has no lasting benefit for me (they clear away the scent almost as fast as I can “deposit” it.)

Resolution #4: I’ll stay out of the cat’s litter box.
I vow to resist the urge to snoop around the cat’s private lavatory – even though it’s a lot of fun and really makes her go nuts.

Resolution #5: I won’t bite the vet anymore.
I’ll remember that the vets and their staff are just trying to help in their own, inscrutable way, although they really know how to push my buttons with those needles!

Resolution #6: I won’t steal food as much.
I won’t go out of my way to steal food, although all bets are off if they make it really easy for me.

Resolution #7: I’ll introduce myself in more appropriate ways.
In other words, I’ll focus above the waist when introducing myself to humans. Somehow, I get the feeling my normal greeting methods invade their private space.

Resolution #8: I’ll do better “holding it” until morning.
When nature calls, I’ll steel my resolve to wait for my normal morning walk, unless special considerations apply.  I’ll decide what those special considerations are.

Resolution #9: I’ll bark at the mailman less.
Even though it works to put him in his place, I’ll try not to exercise my authority over him and other delivery people, although my self-esteem does get a boost when they retreat.

Resolution #10: I’ll tolerate those homemade bandannas more.
My owner has gone to a lot of trouble to make these things, so I’ll just put up with the way they feel and the taunts of the other dogs.

One of Orange County Animal Services (OCAS) New Year’s resolutions in Central Florida is to find “loving, forever homes” for four-hundred animals this month.  During January, OCAS will reduce adoption fees to $20.12 in celebration of the New Year.

Said Dil Luther, Division Manager of OCAS, “With the holidays during this time of year, we tend to have fewer visitors at the shelter, but there are plenty of animals still looking for new homes.  We did a similar promotion last year and were amazed with the results, 396 animals were adopted.  We’re hoping this year is even more successful.”  Can you make a resolution to start off 2012 by saving a homeless animal’s life?

What are some of you and your four-legged friends resolutions for the coming year?  Whatever they may be, we hope the new year finds you and your furry friends happy and well!

Bessie Paige

Whether it’s a family member, friend or a pet, we all deal with the loss of someone close to us at some point in time.

A week ago today I lost my little girl Bessie. She was my daughter with 4 legs and a tail.  I knew the time was near since she had cancer and had been fighting it for a long time.  Even though I tried to prepare myself, when the time came, I felt like I was completely unprepared.   I have to confess, I have had ferrets for over 20 years.  They are prone to certain cancers and illnesses, so I am always aware that they will not live very long when I get one.  I can’t help it, they are like potato chips, you can’t love just one.

I spent the last night tossing and turning, knowing it was my last night with her. I kept hugging her as much as I could until she gave me a look that said, “Leave me alone, I’m trying to sleep!”

The next morning I took her to the veterinarian for her final visit. When we came home I was consumed with making sure her resting spot, next to her soul mate Herb, was just perfect.   For that period of time, my life seemed normal.  As soon as I came in the house my world fell apart.

Herb & Bessie

I realized that I had lost two of the closest loves of my life over the past 18 months.  For two days after the burial I don’t remember any of the phone conversations I had.  I also didn’t realize all of the emails and posts I had responded to.  It was like someone invaded my body and took over for 48 hours.

With the help of friends I got out of the house and kept busy this weekend.  I even helped the local Greyhound rescue.  It helped, until I come home and went into my bedroom.  That’s where my kids lived with me.  I have not been able to clean, or move, any of the things Bessie used.  I am not sure how long that process takes. When Herb died, Bessie was here to console me and I did the same for her.  We made a great team.  Now I don’t have a team.

I will be ferret sitting for 2 ferrets later this week while their owners are on vacation.  I have also decided to do more sitting for other ferret owners and dog owners. Right now I’d feel guilty if I were to get another animal.  My heart is raw.

One friend sent this question to me, and it helped put things in perspective:  “Honey, if you had the choice of giving up the short time you had with this precious one for the way you feel right now, would you?” Of course my answer was NO, but I miss my kids!!!

I would like to know how other people deal with the loss of their pet?  I am sure everyone deals with the loss in many different ways.

Bessie loved to drag slippers all over the house, especially ones twice her size.

Bessie was also a big Cheerleader.  She could never decide between LSU Tigers and Florida Gators.

Do you care about animals?  Would you like to find a new job, or need a job? Listening to the news I would think the economy is coming back, but not when I talk with a lot of people around the country.  Making a living still seems to be a challenge for most.  Many people are very unhappy doing the work they are doing everyday.  They have passions and desires that are not being fulfilled.  Others are out of work and say they want to find “anything” because they need the income.

This is the perfect time to evaluate what is really important to you, what your passions are AND help animals at the same time.

If you are out of work, or would like to do something else, this is the best time to open the doors for the kind of work YOU want to do.  Do you know what you’re really passionate about?  Most people have no idea.  Don’t think in terms of income but what kinds of things get you really excited and leave you happy and fulfilled when you are finished. It could be ANYTHING:

1. Walking in the woods

2.  Doing crossword puzzles

3. Meeting new people

4. Caring for animals

5. Gardening

6. Talking on the phone

7. Reading

8. Traveling…..the list goes on and on

Recently I’ve had a number of friends ask me to help them figure out what they should do, they are not happy doing what they are doing, or they got laid off and fear they won’t find a job in their industry.

If you know what you’re passionate about, you can use that passion to help animals and open doors for your next career.  Yes, CAREER, not job. The animal organizations, and charities, around the country need help now, more than ever before.  Funding has dried up so they can’t hire the people they need.  They also can’t afford to buy the food and supplies needed to care for the animals.  Everyday I get requests from these organizations for volunteers and donations.

Right now you are asking yourself, “How can helping an organization help me”?  It can, in MANY ways. You meet new people who might open the door to your next position.  You also get to do the things you are passionate about.  It’s a great way to find out if it’s something you want to do for a living.  If so, you can put the experience on your resume.  Most people have only worked in the field they have been trained in, but that is not what they love doing.                                                                                                    

Here are some ideas for you to think about:

1. Walking and caring for animals at a shelter (if you like being outside)

2. Help the staff with ideas about how to raise money and supplies (doing crossword puzzles)

3. Feeding baby animals or holding ones that are afraid (caring for animals)

4. Cleaning up and landscaping the facility (gardening)

5. Making calls for supplies, donations, volunteers, etc.  (talking on the phone)

6. Research and help find new ideas that can benefit the organization (reading)

7. Animals and supplies need to be transported to other locations (traveling)

These are only a few ideas.  I could go on for quite sometime.  There are also a lot of animals that need to be fostered until a permanent home can be found.  They can be cats, dogs, ferrets, iguanas, pigs, etc.

What kinds of animals do you like?

1. Tigers

2. Dogs

3. Cats

4. Birds

5. Horses

6. Monkeys

7. Deer

8. Pigs

There are organizations caring for any kind of animal you can think of, all over the country.  All of them need help. You can Google the kind of animal you want to help with “rescue” or “shelter”, then your area.  (Ex: ferret shelter Florida)  You will most likely find something in your area.  If not, call or email the ones that pop up.  The animal community is very small and we all help each other the best we can.

I hope that this post will inspire people to find their true passion, and use their passion in a way that will fulfill them personally and help animals that have a lot of needs.  At the very least, you will open doors by meeting other people who might know a company that needs a position filled with someone who has your qualifications.

The holidays are a wonderful time of year; friends and family visiting and an abundance of new toys for your pet.  Those annual holiday items we think are beautiful and peaceful are viewed as toys by your dog and then a menace when they ingest it.  To make sure that your holiday runs smoothly, here are a few tips to dog proof your house during the holidays.  These suggestions should be used for other your other pets as well, like cats and ferrets.

Everyone loves the holiday lights that glow beautifully in the night this time of year; but there is an unseen hazard.  Dogs, especially those who are over curious, will find the cords to your indoor and outdoor lights a toy.  This is a hazard if your dog chews on the cords, they could expose the wiring which could shock or even electrocute your pet.  To avoid this, make sure to tie your cords together and hide them under a sheet or cord cover and check regularly that your pet hasn’t messed with the cords.

The tree looks beautiful to us but to a dog it is covered with lots of toys.  All those shiny, glittery balls are great to knock off the tree, then break, and then eat.  And once it’s eaten, the problems multiply.  The last thing you want during the holidays is a pet with a blocked intestine and in need of surgery.  Set your tree off the floor on boxes and cover those boxes with a large tree skirt, and don’t hang ornaments too low where your pet can get to them.

Everyone knows the best food of the year is made during the holiday season.  There is a lot of turkey, chocolates, cakes, cookies, and the list goes on.  All of these foods are dangerous to your pet.  After cooking a turkey, make sure the keep it out of the way where your dog can’t get at it, and when you are finished with the turkey, take the trash with the bones out to a lidded trash can immediately.  Dogs love turkey bones which are sharp and can puncture the intestines if eaten.  Many meals contain a chocolate treat this time of year as well.  Chocolate is a poison to dogs and should be kept out of reach at all times.  Keep an eye on your dog to make sure it’s not getting into anything they shouldn’t be.

Dogs react to alcohol just like anyone does.  Except, your dog has a low tolerance and can get sick from it.  Every year beloved pets die from alcohol poisoning.  Don’t let them drink from the punch bowl or the eggnog.  Keep it out of reach of your pet.

Holiday plants like poinsettias, mistletoe and holly can be dangerous to pets.  Recent studies have shown that the plants are not as dangerous as they were thought to be, but they can still cause stomach upset for your pet.  Use fake plants instead, just make sure that your pet doesn’t eat the fake flowers which are also dangerous.

Dogs, like humans and all other living organisms, need food. The right food is important, it makes your dog look, act, and feel better. The wrong foods can upset their stomachs, give them gas, make them appear unhealthy, or even be fatal. Here is some information to help you decide what foods are best for your dog.

Dogs should be maintained on dog food. Whether it be dry or wet food or a mixture of both. There are many dog food companies out there and all of them want you to purchase their food. But which is right for your dog. The first rule about dog food; look on the back of the package at the ingredients. If it starts with anything including the word “meal”, this is a poor food. Good foods will always start the ingredients with a real meat like chicken, lamb or beef.

Many people like to feed their dogs people food. If you know what is good and bad, then it’s ok. But where does that hazy gray line come in? The second rule about dog food; if you shouldn’t eat it, neither should your dog. Giving your dog the scraps at the end of the meal is not good. These scraps are pieces of fat, bone and unedible material, your dog doesn’t know that, but relies on you to feed him appropriately. Some of these scrap foods can make your dog overweight, cause intestinal blockage, or gastroenteritis.

So what can you feed your dog off the table that won’t raise your vet bill? Start with some vegetables. Third rule about dog food, always feed your dog raw or frozen plain vegetables. This means no canned vegetables and no vegetables marinated in butter or other tasty sauces. Good foods are broccoli, carrots, green beans and cauliflower. The downside to the tasty goodness, the gas. Broccoli and cauliflower are known to cause caustic gas. When it comes to meat, feed them steak, chicken or pork, as long as it is not covered in seasonings.

Foods for dogs that are absolute no-nos; well there’s a few and they have serious consequences. Chocolate is poisonous; it causes gastroenteritis and can lead to death if not dealt with quickly. Garlic, onions and shallots are all poisonous. If you season your meats or vegetables, make sure they don’t contain these ingredients. Here is a link to foods poisonous to your pets.
http://www.peteducation.com/article.cfm?c=2+1659&aid=1030

Proper food makes for a healthier dog. Feed your dog well, treat often, but make sure it’s doggie safe.

If you notice that your pet got into something they shouldn’t have, call your vet immediately.  Let your vet know if you notice any changes in bowel movements, eating and drinking habits, playfulness, lethargy; these symptoms will help your vet pin point your pet’s problem and help to solve it sooner.

For more animal related information please visit this link as well.

Have a happy holiday season and remember to animal proof your house for the holidays.

The oil disaster in the Gulf is far from over.  Even though it’s no longer in the news, there are a lot of environmentalists and experts in engineering, science, commerce, culture, socio-economic studies and research wanting to educate the public about solutions to sustainability issues.

Deltas and estuaries are among the most productive and the most threatened ecosystems on earth. As such, there is an unprecedented urgency for collaboration across deltaic regions of the world to share technology, develop intellectual capital and build knowledge about sustainable deltaic systems.

“The greatest tragedy that we face is not the oil spill itself, but our own willingness to believe that our wildlife and way of life is back to normal. This is a great disservice to our country, our people, and those who will be here long after we are gone”.  Roger Ivens  Defenders of the Coast

I want to bring more information to the pubic so people can feel empowered to do things in their own lives that will have a positive impact.  Education and awareness is the key to opening these doors.  On November 18th there will be an event in New Orleans.  It is called, “Celebrating Critters and the Coast”.  It will benefit two non-profit organizations on the front lines. They help the wildlife and companion animals affected from this situation.

Even if you can’t attend this very special event in New Orleans, you CAN be part of it.  Go to our website homepage and click on “Celebrating Critters and the Coast” If you buy a ticket to the event, you will be entered into the contest to win a 1 week stay in Costa Rica or Steamboat Springs.  You pick the one you want.  They sleep 6-8 people and valued at $3500.

Steamboat Chalet

The Humane Society of Sarasota County received a dog named Buddy. He is an American Bulldog Hound Mix.  He is so cute and sweet.  I met him at the Ron Gordon Golf  Tournament , raising money for the Humane Society, last weekend.  He is dying from cancer and has only 2 years to live.  I understand he lived a very hard life and now he has a wonderful home waiting for him.  Since I met him, he has gone to a foster home while transportation plans are being made to get him to his forever home, in the Houston, Tx area. There is a sanctuary there that is like hospice for animals.

We would like to find a way, preferably the least stressful, to get Buddy from Sarasota to Houston. It seems that driving would be the best.  If not, a direct flight with an airline that would keep him, comfortable and safe.  If you can help, please let me know.  I can connect you with his foster mom.

I want to thank every one in my database for all you do for all of the animals in this world.  Your actions make a big difference!

UPDATE….Buddy is taken care of. He will be driven to his new home and there have been almost $2,000 raised to pay for his care.  Thanks for your support!

Fall is approaching and that means lots of fun things to do.  I am working on an event that will take place in New Orleans. It will benefit the wildlife, pets and other animals that have been affected by the oil disaster in the Gulf.  Once I get more specifics finalized, I will be sending out information.  Stay tuned…….

If you, or someone you know, has an event coming up, please send me the information.  I will place it on this post, so please come back to see new announcements, anywhere in the world.

Here is information on an event that will take place on Saturday September 18th. It is an adoptathon put on by the Humane Society of Sarasota County. If you are on the West Coast of Florida, this is an event you might want to check out.  Click here for a website.

If you like golf and animals, this is the event for you. Saturday, September 25th in Sarasota, FL. It’s the Ron Gordon golf tournament. It’s always a fun event, which also happens to be in Sarasota, Florida. You can contact Ron at:  nuts4golf@verizon.net

Oak Street Pelican Block Party in New Orleans on Saturday October 23rd. This is a fundraiser for the Humane Society of Louisiana and the theme is “Everything Pelican”. To learn more click here to go to their website.

If you are in the Fairdealing Missouri area on Saturday Sept. 4th you might want to stop by and say hi to these guys. They are having an adopt-a-thon. This shelter is always saving animals, even ones that are dumped on the road and no longer wanted.  Any help you can give them is greatly appreciated.   Click here to learn more about them.

Saturday, Oct. 2nd in Cookeville, TN. there will be the 7th annual, walk-in-the-park.  It will be a lot of fun for everyone involved, including the animals.  Click here to learn more.

REGAP (Retired Greyhounds as Pets) of Illinois is hosting a Reunion Picnic on September 25th. Click here to learn more.

Greater Chicago Cavalier Rescue is having a 5th anniversary party on September 12. Click here to learn more.

Saturday, October 2nd at the Loose Screw Bar & Grill, 45 Church Street , German Valley, IL . 7pm to 1 am. Join the fun at this Benefit party for Critter Camp Director Beth’s 50th Birthday to raise funds.  Click here for more info.

The Humane Society of Southeast Missouri is hosting their annual Bark in the Park on Saturday, Sept. 25 at Kiwanis Park in Cape Girardeau, Missouri. This event helps raise money for the shelter. Click here for more info.

This is a very inspiring video that my mom sent me. I wanted to add it since it is uplifting and shows how connected humans are with animals.  Please enjoy!

Unfortunately, there are tragedies as well. Below is an email I got today.  We have had a number of really bad storms in my area.  These are stories about Greyhounds.  PLEASE KEEP YOUR ANIMALS SAFE!!!!

A greyhound got out because the storms had weakened the fence. Please check out your fenced areas if you plan to leave them out unsupervised.   This female grey pushed open the weakened area and was missing for what seemed an eternity for the frantic parents looking for her.  She was found in the river, but safe.

Other stories…… not so good an ending:

1) 2 greys get out of a gate left open – one is hit on a busy highway almost immediately – $ 2,000 later pinned and recovering. The other was found after 5 days of intense searching and she had been hit twice and required over $ 5,000 of treatments and huge help from the kennel owner

2) weaken fence with another 2 greyhounds getting out both get into a pond and 1 is bitten by a gator, but miraculously survives. Has had 2 very expensive procedures and now has a permanent pin.   Let’s make these learning moments to help us all protect our seemingly invincible greyhounds.  

Hurricane Preparedness Tips for your Pet

Now that we are into the heart of hurricane season, we would like to remind everyone to make sure and include your pets in your hurricane evacuation plan.  If you need to evacuate and cannot take your pets, make arrangements for them ahead of time at a local shelter or boarding facility.  Never leave pets at home alone.

Be Sure to:

Prepare adequate supplies of food, medications, and water for your pet.  Also, be sure to have medical records, leashes, collars, food bowls, bedding, toys, trash bags for waste, and a crate/carrier ready. Because sometimes our pets can get separated from us micro chipping is also a great idea. Many shelters are overwhelmed with found pets with no ID and a micro chip would get them back to you safely and quickly.