What looked like a scene from a Hollywood thriller turned out to be a real-life episode in the life of teenage Heroes' star Hayden Panettiere. There she was in tears and putting her life in danger last month as she surfed the waters off the coast of Japan trying to stop the slaughter of dolphins with a group of activists called Sea Shepherd.
"I risked my life," Panettiere told TV Guide. "A lot of people in this world will say they are involved in causes and organizations, but they don't actually do something. It was a great feeling to be there physically, making a difference."
In the video of the event, which is now making the Internet rounds (watch it here), the attacks on pilot whales by Japanese fishermen are so violent that the ocean water turns into a red sea. "It is hard for me to look at," Panettiere says. "I wasn't concerned about risking my life at the moment. The resulting footage created such tremendous awareness, it made it all worth it."
Panettiere and the other activists tried to form a barrier between the fishermen and the dolphins. They were in the area working on a documentary called Secret Dolphin Cove, which will be in theaters next summer. Some of the footage from them event was so bloody that it could not be shown on television.
"For the future I am going to continue to be involved and active until the problem is solved," Panettiere says. "The response has been incredible. By virtue of television, the Internet and word of mouth, it has gotten to the eyes and ears of people who would never have known about the problem otherwise."
Reference:TV Guide
Sunday, November 11, 2007
Monday, October 08, 2007
Rabid cat discovered in Harford
By Gina Davis
Harford County health officials confirmed yesterday that an abandoned kitten has tested positive for rabies.
They are seeking anyone who might have had contact with other kittens, or the mother cat, that were left outside a Pylesville convenience store about a month ago.
"We don't perceive many people are at risk, but anyone who has been exposed is at great risk," said Bill Wiseman, county Health Department spokesman. "They are at risk for a potentially life-threatening disease."
Wiseman said the tested kitten was among a litter that was left in a box with its mother outside a High's convenience store at Routes 24 and 165.
He said two kittens were taken by people at the store, and the other kittens and the mother are missing.
Anyone who has handled the animals -- and been bitten, scratched or exposed to their saliva -- should immediately seek treatment at an emergency room, according to a statement released by the Health Department.
Anyone who is unsure about whether he or she has come in contact with these kittens or the mother cat should contact the Health Department through the county's emergency operations center at 410-638-3400.
Receiving treatment -- which involves a series of five rabies shots -- soon after exposure will prevent rabies, according to Health Department officials. Even those who have been previously vaccinated should seek treatment, they said.
Rabies is a viral infection that targets the nervous system. Early symptoms of rabies in humans include fever, headache and general malaise, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Eventually, neurological symptoms appear and may include insomnia, anxiety, confusion, slight or partial paralysis, excitation, hallucinations, agitation, hypersalivation, and difficulty swallowing.
Death usually occurs within days of the onset of symptoms.
Reference:baltimoresun
Harford County health officials confirmed yesterday that an abandoned kitten has tested positive for rabies.
They are seeking anyone who might have had contact with other kittens, or the mother cat, that were left outside a Pylesville convenience store about a month ago.
"We don't perceive many people are at risk, but anyone who has been exposed is at great risk," said Bill Wiseman, county Health Department spokesman. "They are at risk for a potentially life-threatening disease."
Wiseman said the tested kitten was among a litter that was left in a box with its mother outside a High's convenience store at Routes 24 and 165.
He said two kittens were taken by people at the store, and the other kittens and the mother are missing.
Anyone who has handled the animals -- and been bitten, scratched or exposed to their saliva -- should immediately seek treatment at an emergency room, according to a statement released by the Health Department.
Anyone who is unsure about whether he or she has come in contact with these kittens or the mother cat should contact the Health Department through the county's emergency operations center at 410-638-3400.
Receiving treatment -- which involves a series of five rabies shots -- soon after exposure will prevent rabies, according to Health Department officials. Even those who have been previously vaccinated should seek treatment, they said.
Rabies is a viral infection that targets the nervous system. Early symptoms of rabies in humans include fever, headache and general malaise, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Eventually, neurological symptoms appear and may include insomnia, anxiety, confusion, slight or partial paralysis, excitation, hallucinations, agitation, hypersalivation, and difficulty swallowing.
Death usually occurs within days of the onset of symptoms.
Reference:baltimoresun
Dogs attack woman on beach
TWO dogs attacked a woman as she was walking on a beach south of Perth.
The woman was strolling along the beach near Secret Harbour, 50km south of Perth, with her dog, a Jack Russell-cross, when two dogs, possibly Dobermans, came bounding towards her at 5pm (WST) yesterday.
“They've jumped on her, knocking her back into the water. Her dog was knocked from her grasp, and both her and her dog were attacked,” a police spokesman said.
“She received some bite wounds to her hands.”
A man arrived in a four-wheel drive and loaded up the dogs.
The woman tried to confront him, but he drove away, police said.
She was treated for the wounds to her hands at Perth's Sir Charles Gairdner hospital. The extent of her injuries was unknown.
Reference:Au News
The woman was strolling along the beach near Secret Harbour, 50km south of Perth, with her dog, a Jack Russell-cross, when two dogs, possibly Dobermans, came bounding towards her at 5pm (WST) yesterday.
“They've jumped on her, knocking her back into the water. Her dog was knocked from her grasp, and both her and her dog were attacked,” a police spokesman said.
“She received some bite wounds to her hands.”
A man arrived in a four-wheel drive and loaded up the dogs.
The woman tried to confront him, but he drove away, police said.
She was treated for the wounds to her hands at Perth's Sir Charles Gairdner hospital. The extent of her injuries was unknown.
Reference:Au News
Friday, September 14, 2007
77 cats taken from GR home
GRAND RAPIDS -- Dozens upon dozens of cats are at the Humane Society of Kent County after they were found in the same Grand Rapids home.
The Human Society got tipped off to the case by a neighbor. When the owner was approached, she voluntarily turned over all of the cats.
"The carpets were saturated in urine so much that if you walked into the basement...the ceiling tiles had urine saturated through them," Amber Conklin, a kennel technician at the Humane Society, told 24 Hour News 8.
"(The owner) had about 48 food bowls around the house for the cats to eat out of."
But unlike similar cases where many animals have to be euthanized, everyone involved says these cats are in good health.
Many of the cats are already spayed or neutered, and some are even declawed.
Those at the Humane Society say this case just boils down to one person getting overwhelmed after taking in all these cats.
"There were too many of them in a household with someone who didn't have the financial means or time to properly care for that quantity of cats," said Karen Terpstra of the Humane Society.
The animals will go up for adoption next week for $25 each.
Reference:woodtv
The Human Society got tipped off to the case by a neighbor. When the owner was approached, she voluntarily turned over all of the cats.
"The carpets were saturated in urine so much that if you walked into the basement...the ceiling tiles had urine saturated through them," Amber Conklin, a kennel technician at the Humane Society, told 24 Hour News 8.
"(The owner) had about 48 food bowls around the house for the cats to eat out of."
But unlike similar cases where many animals have to be euthanized, everyone involved says these cats are in good health.
Many of the cats are already spayed or neutered, and some are even declawed.
Those at the Humane Society say this case just boils down to one person getting overwhelmed after taking in all these cats.
"There were too many of them in a household with someone who didn't have the financial means or time to properly care for that quantity of cats," said Karen Terpstra of the Humane Society.
The animals will go up for adoption next week for $25 each.
Reference:woodtv
Lance Armstrong sues animal group over yellow wristbands
WASHINGTON (AFP) - The Lance Armstrong Foundation set up by the former Tour de France champion to battle cancer is suing an animal charity over dog and cat collars which resemble its yellow wristbands.
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Armstrong, a cancer survivor, launched the yellow bands during the 2004 Tour bearing the words "Livestrong." They became an instant success, and selling at a dollar a piece, have turned into a huge money-spinner for his foundation.
They have also become a sign of recognition for those fighting against cancer. Armstrong always wears his, as does cancer-sufferer White House spokesman Tony Snow, along with many other personalities.
In court documents filed in Texas on Tuesday, the foundation (LAF) alleges that the Oklahoma-based Animal Charity Collar Group stole the idea in producing yellow dog and cat collars embossed with the words "Barkstrong" and "Purrstrong."
The animal collars which went on sale in 2005 "use the same color, the same or similar materials, similar wording ... and similar fonts," the documents allege.
"Such confusion, mistake and deception are likely to cause irreparable harm to LAF," they add.
The foundation has sold some 65 million yellow "Livestrong" wristbands since they were launched three years ago and is asking for the animal charity to pay damages from the profits of the collars and to stop selling them.
yahoo
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Armstrong, a cancer survivor, launched the yellow bands during the 2004 Tour bearing the words "Livestrong." They became an instant success, and selling at a dollar a piece, have turned into a huge money-spinner for his foundation.
They have also become a sign of recognition for those fighting against cancer. Armstrong always wears his, as does cancer-sufferer White House spokesman Tony Snow, along with many other personalities.
In court documents filed in Texas on Tuesday, the foundation (LAF) alleges that the Oklahoma-based Animal Charity Collar Group stole the idea in producing yellow dog and cat collars embossed with the words "Barkstrong" and "Purrstrong."
The animal collars which went on sale in 2005 "use the same color, the same or similar materials, similar wording ... and similar fonts," the documents allege.
"Such confusion, mistake and deception are likely to cause irreparable harm to LAF," they add.
The foundation has sold some 65 million yellow "Livestrong" wristbands since they were launched three years ago and is asking for the animal charity to pay damages from the profits of the collars and to stop selling them.
yahoo
Man arrested after beating dog
Tampa, Florida - A 36-year-old Hillsborough County man is jail today, accused of beating his dog in a bank parking lot in the Town N' Country area.
Herbert Cox Jr. has a long arrest history in Hillsborough County. He's been arrested at least 19 times, the majority of those are battery and drug charges.
Investigators say numerous people called the Sheriff's Office when they spotted Cox hitting and kicking his mixed breed dog outside a bank on Sheldon Road.
Cox was taken to the Hillsborough County Jail and the injured dog was taken to an emergency vet clinic.
The dog reportedly has eye, mouth and leg injuries.
Cox is charged with animal cruelty and is being held on a $2,000 bond.
tampabays10
Herbert Cox Jr. has a long arrest history in Hillsborough County. He's been arrested at least 19 times, the majority of those are battery and drug charges.
Investigators say numerous people called the Sheriff's Office when they spotted Cox hitting and kicking his mixed breed dog outside a bank on Sheldon Road.
Cox was taken to the Hillsborough County Jail and the injured dog was taken to an emergency vet clinic.
The dog reportedly has eye, mouth and leg injuries.
Cox is charged with animal cruelty and is being held on a $2,000 bond.
tampabays10
Stolen Dog Recovered After Two Years
Usually, you hear dogs will scare away would-be intruders, unless it’s your dogs they’re after.
“My window had been pried open,” Jennifer Gleason said. “And the dogs were gone.”
When someone broke into Jennifer Gleason's home in Canton, Georgia, the only things missing were her two purebred pugs. She filed a police report and started a search that lasted nearly two years.
“One of the animal control officers told me there’s been a rash of small dogs being stolen and sold,” Gleason remembered. “I never thought I’d see them again.”
Then, last week, a phone call: “My mother screamed, ‘Jenny, Jenny, they found Cupcake!’”
The female pug was discovered abandoned on the side of the road by two Carrollton sisters. Melissa and Melinda didn’t want to use their last names, because they’re also dog owners and are afraid they could be targeted.
“I was led to her,” Melissa said. “My husband said he saw a pug on the side of the road and I went looking for her.” Melissa finally found Cupcake at the end of an abandoned road. She was covered in fleas, missing patches of hair, and had lost 15 pounds.
When the sisters took Cupcake to the veterinarian, they asked for a microchip scan. That scan came up with Jennifer’s name. The two groups quickly planned a reunion over Labor Day weekend.
“I was emotional,” Melinda said. “I was crying. She was crying, and Cupcake was like, ‘What’s going on?”
Randi Tucker, from the Southeast Pug Rescue and Adoption (SEPRA), said when certain breeds gain popularity, and price, they can also become targets:
"A lot of times because they're purebreds, they're valuable. They can be put into puppy mills, which are solely for the purpose of breeding puppies."
That’s why Tucker says microchipping your dog is so important: “Whether lost or stolen, it will help you find your dog.”
Because stolen dogs are sometimes sold at flea markets or in classified ads, she also warns you should have new dogs scanned to make sure they don’t belong to someone else.
Meanwhile, police are still looking into Jennifer Gleason’s case. Jennifer said she’s been told other nearby dog owners suspect they, too, might have been targets. Canton police say there have been no other police reports filed in that area.
tampabays10
Wednesday, September 05, 2007
Muncie man guilty of dog fighting
STAR PRESS FILE PHOTOOne of two pit bulls confiscated from Chris Wilson’s home peeks out from a cage at the Muncie Animal Shelter in December of 2006. The dogs were later put to death.
MUNCIE -- Christopher Wilson loved dogs as a child, according to his mother, but the Muncie man was found guilty Tuesday of promoting animal fighting and cruelty to animals.
"This is a case of an individual that benefited from fighting dogs," said Deputy Prosecutor Joe Orick, displaying photographs of a chewed-up pit bull that was found in Wilson's possession.
Wilson's mother, Brenda Gore, maintained the guilty verdicts rendered by Delaware Circuit Court 3 Judge Robert Barnet Jr. were wrong.
"Chris raised dogs since he was nine," Gore said. "He loves animals."
Based on evidence presented by Orick, Barnet found Wilson, 22, guilty of promoting an animal fighting contest, a class D felony carrying a standard 18-month prison term, and two counts of animal cruelty, a class B misdemeanor with a maximum 180-day jail sentence.
The judge found Wilson not guilty of resisting law enforcement.
Barnet issued the verdicts after a two-hour bench trial and ordered Wilson held in jail pending a Sept. 17 sentencing hearing.
Wilson's arrest followed a December fire in a condemned house at 823 E. Main St. where two canines were found.
Police officer Michael Edwards said he found two pit bulls, an adult in a cage that was standing in feces and urine without food or water, and a puppy tied to a treadmill with a one-foot leash.
Orick provided photographs illustrating scars from chew marks on the head and legs of the adult pit bull.
Jill Dolon, president of Unconditional Love Foundation, testified that the scars on the dog were consistent with wounds caused by dog fighting.
The animal rights group has produced a documentary on dog fighting and also provides education to prevent animal cruelty.
Defense attorney Ross Rowland tried to exclude Dolon's testimony, saying she had no formal education in animal care and treatment. Barnet allowed the testimony after Dolon testified she received education and training as a county animal control officer.
Wilson denied he had ever been involved in dog fighting, insisting that the animals were regularly fed and watered. He also claimed equipment in the house, such as the treadmill and scales, were for his personal use.
"I moved out of the house because it was condemned," said Wilson, who maintained he continued to care for the two dogs and others there after moving out. The two dogs police found were taken to the Muncie Animal Shelter and later put to death.
Orick said the prosecutor's office took animal rights "very seriously."
"We aggressively pursue these cases any time we hear of dog fighting," the deputy prosecutor said.
Rowland, meanwhile, insisted there was no evidence to prove his client intended to commit the crimes against animals.
Tuesday, September 04, 2007
Ancient Beehives Unearthed in Israel
Amihai Mazar, Hebrew University of Jerusalem
Honeybee Central?
An archaeologist peers into the opening of an ancient beehive found in excavations in Tel Rehov in northern Israel. Researchers digging in northern Israel recently discovered the hives, believed to be the oldest ever found, as well as remnants of ancient honeycombs and beeswax.
Archaeologists digging in northern Israel have discovered evidence of a 3,000-year-old beekeeping industry, including remnants of ancient honeycombs, beeswax and what they believe are the oldest intact beehives ever found.
The findings in the ruins of the city of Rehov this summer include 30 intact hives dating to around 900 B.C., archaeologist Amihai Mazar of Jerusalem's Hebrew University said. He said it offers unique evidence that an advanced honey industry existed in the Holy Land at the time of the Bible.
Beekeeping was widely practiced in the ancient world, where honey used for medicinal and religious purposes as well as for food, and beeswax was used to make molds for metal and to create surfaces to write on. While bees and beekeeping are depicted in ancient artwork, nothing similar to the Rehov hives has ever been found before, Mazar said.
The beehives, made of straw and unbaked clay, have a hole at one end to allow the bees in and out and a lid on the other end to allow beekeepers access to the honeycombs inside. They were found in orderly rows, three high, in a room that could have accommodated around 100 hives, Mazar said.
The Bible repeatedly refers to Israel as a "land of milk and honey," but that's believed to refer to honey made from dates and figs — there is no mention of bee cultivation. But the new find shows that the Holy Land was home to a highly developed beekeeping industry nearly 3,000 years ago.
"You can tell that this was an organized industry, part of an organized economy, in an ultra-organized city," Mazar said.
At the time the beehives were in use, Mazar believes Rehov had around 2,000 residents, a mix of Israelites, Canaanites and others.
Ezra Marcus, an expert on the ancient Mediterranean world at Haifa University, said Tuesday the finding was a unique glimpse into ancient beekeeping. Marcus was not involved in the Rehov excavation.
"We have seen depictions of beekeeping in texts and ancient art from the Near East, but this is the first time we've been able to actually feel and see the industry," Marcus said.
The finding is especially unique, Marcus said, because of its location in the middle of a thriving city — a strange place for thousands of bees.
This might have been because the city's ruler wanted the industry under his control, Marcus said, or because the beekeeping industry was linked to residents' religious practices, as might be indicated by an altar decorated with fertility figurines that archaeologists found alongside the hives.
Reference:Discovery News
Protect rabbits from wet weather disease
By Mark Waffel
Vets in Northampton are urging pet owners to have their rabbits vaccinated against a deadly disease, as wet weather this summer could cause an outbreak.
Heavy downpours this summer have already lead to flash floods, swarms of mosquitoes and an explosion in slug numbers.
And now the wet weather could lead to a rise in myxomatosis, a virus spread by biting insects, which have thrived this summer.
County animal charities and vets are now urging rabbit owners to get their pets vaccinated, as the disease is most prevalent in the autumn.
Annette Shanahan, who runs Rabbit Rescue & Boarding in Ashton, near Towcester, said: "It always increases in September, October and November – that's the time it really flares up.
"That's why we're saying to owners, even if you live in the middle of the town, it's worth doing it. For the sake of a small amount of money you could save yourself a lot of heartbreak."
Myxomatosis, which nearly wiped out the entire population of wild rabbits in the UK in the 1950s, is usually spread by fleas and mosquitoes, but it can be passed on by contact with infected animals.
Simon Maddock, a veterinary surgeon at the Cat & Rabbit Care Clinic in Limehurst Square, Northampton, said an outbreak was more likely this year.
He said: "I think it's quite likely that this year there will be an increase because of the wet weather. There are quite a lot of mosquitoes around and we had a bad fly season this year."
Mr Maddock, whose clinic last week treated its first few cases of the year, said the number of animals infected varies each autumn, depending on viral strains and the size of the wild rabbit population.
The veterinary surgeon's clinic offers a health check and the myxomatosis vaccine for £26 which, although does not prevent the illness in every rabbit, does weaken the symptoms in infected animals.
For more information on the illness visit www.rabbitwelfare.co.uk
Vets in Northampton are urging pet owners to have their rabbits vaccinated against a deadly disease, as wet weather this summer could cause an outbreak.
Heavy downpours this summer have already lead to flash floods, swarms of mosquitoes and an explosion in slug numbers.
And now the wet weather could lead to a rise in myxomatosis, a virus spread by biting insects, which have thrived this summer.
County animal charities and vets are now urging rabbit owners to get their pets vaccinated, as the disease is most prevalent in the autumn.
Annette Shanahan, who runs Rabbit Rescue & Boarding in Ashton, near Towcester, said: "It always increases in September, October and November – that's the time it really flares up.
"That's why we're saying to owners, even if you live in the middle of the town, it's worth doing it. For the sake of a small amount of money you could save yourself a lot of heartbreak."
Myxomatosis, which nearly wiped out the entire population of wild rabbits in the UK in the 1950s, is usually spread by fleas and mosquitoes, but it can be passed on by contact with infected animals.
Simon Maddock, a veterinary surgeon at the Cat & Rabbit Care Clinic in Limehurst Square, Northampton, said an outbreak was more likely this year.
He said: "I think it's quite likely that this year there will be an increase because of the wet weather. There are quite a lot of mosquitoes around and we had a bad fly season this year."
Mr Maddock, whose clinic last week treated its first few cases of the year, said the number of animals infected varies each autumn, depending on viral strains and the size of the wild rabbit population.
The veterinary surgeon's clinic offers a health check and the myxomatosis vaccine for £26 which, although does not prevent the illness in every rabbit, does weaken the symptoms in infected animals.
For more information on the illness visit www.rabbitwelfare.co.uk
Reference:northamptonchron
Monday, August 20, 2007
Coyotes corner woman in Westlake
By Teresa Rochester (Contact)
Saturday, August 18, 2007
The professionals call it human-wildlife interface.
Beverly Thompson calls it downright scary.
The Westlake Village woman was still shaking hours later on Wednesday when she recounted her early morning run-in with five coyotes while walking her Shih Tzus, Goldie and Monty Hall Jr.
"They were so brazen," Thompson said. "I've never seen them so brazen."
Living in this region, it's not uncommon to encounter coyotes that come down from the hills for food and water. However, officials in both Thousand Oaks and the city of Westlake Village said they have not received increased complaints this year.
Thompson's experience began around 6:20 a.m. as she and her dogs strolled down North Shore Lane, in the Westlake Village section of Thousand Oaks. Suddenly, Goldie came to a halt. A moment later Thompson spotted two fast-moving coyotes heading toward them.
She turned around, but not before dispensing pepper spray in the air.
Thompson said 16-year-old Monty Hall Jr. sprang to life.
"He has eye problems and can't hear, and I haven't seen him move that fast in three years," she said.
Thompson was holding Goldie, as the trio rounded a corner only to discover three other coyotes running toward them.
Thompson started shouting "coyote, coyote," as the five bore down on her. A man in a nearby townhome swung open the gate to his backyard and pulled Thompson and her dogs in.
Thompson is understanding of the coyotes' plight.
"They are starving now. They should be doing lifts of food up there," she said referring to the Santa Monica Mountains. "If they are coming in now they are hungry."
Brebda Sanchez, a spokeswoman with Los Angeles County's Department of Animal Care and Control, which Thousand Oaks contracts with for service, said hunger is what drives the bristly-tailed animals into the more populated areas.
"They are probably looking for food and water," said Sanchez adding that coyotes tend to become aggressive when they are protecting their young. "When you see three, you are probably seeing a mother and pups."
Officials in Westlake Village and Thousand Oaks said reports of coyote run-ins have held at a steady rate of a couple of phone calls a year. Scott Wolfe, Westlake Village's senior planner, said that several years ago there was a surge in the numbers. Thompson agreed.
California's Department of Fish and Game launched a campaign several years ago called "Keep Them Wild," an effort to educate people about coyotes. They are advised never to feed coyotes deliberately because the animals will get used to coming around, and that puts people and pets in danger. Pets should also be fed indoors and trash cans should have secured lids.
The Department of Fish and Game also recommends that bush and dense weeds around homes be cleared to reduce places where coyotes and rodents can take cover.
Small children should also not be left unattended in areas where coyotes congregate. Small pets should be kept indoors at night. Making loud noises, throwing rocks or spraying them with a garden house can keep coyotes at bay.
Saturday, August 18, 2007
The professionals call it human-wildlife interface.
Beverly Thompson calls it downright scary.
The Westlake Village woman was still shaking hours later on Wednesday when she recounted her early morning run-in with five coyotes while walking her Shih Tzus, Goldie and Monty Hall Jr.
"They were so brazen," Thompson said. "I've never seen them so brazen."
Living in this region, it's not uncommon to encounter coyotes that come down from the hills for food and water. However, officials in both Thousand Oaks and the city of Westlake Village said they have not received increased complaints this year.
Thompson's experience began around 6:20 a.m. as she and her dogs strolled down North Shore Lane, in the Westlake Village section of Thousand Oaks. Suddenly, Goldie came to a halt. A moment later Thompson spotted two fast-moving coyotes heading toward them.
She turned around, but not before dispensing pepper spray in the air.
Thompson said 16-year-old Monty Hall Jr. sprang to life.
"He has eye problems and can't hear, and I haven't seen him move that fast in three years," she said.
Thompson was holding Goldie, as the trio rounded a corner only to discover three other coyotes running toward them.
Thompson started shouting "coyote, coyote," as the five bore down on her. A man in a nearby townhome swung open the gate to his backyard and pulled Thompson and her dogs in.
Thompson is understanding of the coyotes' plight.
"They are starving now. They should be doing lifts of food up there," she said referring to the Santa Monica Mountains. "If they are coming in now they are hungry."
Brebda Sanchez, a spokeswoman with Los Angeles County's Department of Animal Care and Control, which Thousand Oaks contracts with for service, said hunger is what drives the bristly-tailed animals into the more populated areas.
"They are probably looking for food and water," said Sanchez adding that coyotes tend to become aggressive when they are protecting their young. "When you see three, you are probably seeing a mother and pups."
Officials in Westlake Village and Thousand Oaks said reports of coyote run-ins have held at a steady rate of a couple of phone calls a year. Scott Wolfe, Westlake Village's senior planner, said that several years ago there was a surge in the numbers. Thompson agreed.
California's Department of Fish and Game launched a campaign several years ago called "Keep Them Wild," an effort to educate people about coyotes. They are advised never to feed coyotes deliberately because the animals will get used to coming around, and that puts people and pets in danger. Pets should also be fed indoors and trash cans should have secured lids.
The Department of Fish and Game also recommends that bush and dense weeds around homes be cleared to reduce places where coyotes and rodents can take cover.
Small children should also not be left unattended in areas where coyotes congregate. Small pets should be kept indoors at night. Making loud noises, throwing rocks or spraying them with a garden house can keep coyotes at bay.
Cats suffering in silence with pain of arthritis
CATS have been found for the first time to suffer from arthritis, Scottish researchers have revealed.
Vets previously thought that felines do not suffer from the disease because their symptoms were less prominent than in other species.
But scientists at Glasgow University have now found that as many as 30 per cent of all cats over the age of eight may now be in pain with arthritis, badly affecting their quality of life.
Professor David Bennett, from the university's vet school, said the condition was difficult to diagnose in the pets as they do not limp like dogs and horses - animals traditionally thought to be susceptible to the disease.
Cats also do not normally vocalise their pain in the same way as other creatures.
But Prof Bennett said: "This does not mean that cats suffer from arthritis any less frequently than dogs and other animals. Arthritis is often a very painful condition and it is always difficult to detect and quantify pain in animals, and cats in particular."
There are an estimated nine million cats in the UK, with one-quarter of all households owning at least one of the animals.
Prof Bennett said the key to recognising pain in cats was to check for any lifestyle changes related to mobility.
These include an unwillingness to jump or an inability to jump as high as previously, and a reduction in overall activity.
Reference:News
Vets previously thought that felines do not suffer from the disease because their symptoms were less prominent than in other species.
But scientists at Glasgow University have now found that as many as 30 per cent of all cats over the age of eight may now be in pain with arthritis, badly affecting their quality of life.
Professor David Bennett, from the university's vet school, said the condition was difficult to diagnose in the pets as they do not limp like dogs and horses - animals traditionally thought to be susceptible to the disease.
Cats also do not normally vocalise their pain in the same way as other creatures.
But Prof Bennett said: "This does not mean that cats suffer from arthritis any less frequently than dogs and other animals. Arthritis is often a very painful condition and it is always difficult to detect and quantify pain in animals, and cats in particular."
There are an estimated nine million cats in the UK, with one-quarter of all households owning at least one of the animals.
Prof Bennett said the key to recognising pain in cats was to check for any lifestyle changes related to mobility.
These include an unwillingness to jump or an inability to jump as high as previously, and a reduction in overall activity.
Reference:News
Making shelters 'no-kill' is the only way to truly care for pets
Susan Cosby, chief operating officer, Philadelphia Animal Care and Control Association - Philadelphia
The article "Merits of no-kill shelters questioned" reveals the stark challenges animal shelter staff face in saving innocent animals (USATODAY.com, Aug. 12).
(Photo -- To be or not to be? This few-days-old kitten, held at San Antonio’s Animal Care Services, is one of 1,004 cats and dogs taken in by the city-run shelter in a week. / By Eric Gay, AP)
San Antonio's Animal Care Services, which is profiled in the article, should be applauded for trying to end the senseless killing of healthy animals. Sadly, it doesn't seem like many no-kill shelters receive praise.
There are many animal services and organizations that seem to think no-kill shelters are more trouble than they are worth. The truth is, any organization that truly cares about animals must strive to reach the goal of San Antonio's Animal Care Services and become a no-kill shelter.
Rather than becoming an animal warehouse, this organization has a plan and is heeding the successes and failures of other no-kill shelters. It is quite scary when national organizations describe killing animals as the "only humane way to ease overcrowding."
As someone who has faced many of the challenges that the San Antonio shelter is facing, I know that killing friendly, healthy and easily treatable animals is the least humane way to reduce overcrowding. Adoption, foster care, spay/neuter and rescue programs top the killing option by miles.
It will take hard work. It will take involving the community through volunteering and foster care, and it will take a major culture shift, but as the staff at San Antonio's Animal Care Services see the progress, they will find great joy in their work.
Follow Germany's lead
Bobbee Murr - Portland, Ore.
Thanks to the vision and action of many animal services staff and volunteers across the USA, one day, I believe, the killing of homeless pets finally will end. Those working in the animal services field and pet owners need to help the United States match Germany's high standard of keeping healthy animals and those who have treatable conditions alive. It is a moral imperative of humanity to eliminate the shamefully high kill rates at facilities that call themselves "shelters."
Reference:USA Today
The article "Merits of no-kill shelters questioned" reveals the stark challenges animal shelter staff face in saving innocent animals (USATODAY.com, Aug. 12).
(Photo -- To be or not to be? This few-days-old kitten, held at San Antonio’s Animal Care Services, is one of 1,004 cats and dogs taken in by the city-run shelter in a week. / By Eric Gay, AP)
San Antonio's Animal Care Services, which is profiled in the article, should be applauded for trying to end the senseless killing of healthy animals. Sadly, it doesn't seem like many no-kill shelters receive praise.
There are many animal services and organizations that seem to think no-kill shelters are more trouble than they are worth. The truth is, any organization that truly cares about animals must strive to reach the goal of San Antonio's Animal Care Services and become a no-kill shelter.
Rather than becoming an animal warehouse, this organization has a plan and is heeding the successes and failures of other no-kill shelters. It is quite scary when national organizations describe killing animals as the "only humane way to ease overcrowding."
As someone who has faced many of the challenges that the San Antonio shelter is facing, I know that killing friendly, healthy and easily treatable animals is the least humane way to reduce overcrowding. Adoption, foster care, spay/neuter and rescue programs top the killing option by miles.
It will take hard work. It will take involving the community through volunteering and foster care, and it will take a major culture shift, but as the staff at San Antonio's Animal Care Services see the progress, they will find great joy in their work.
Follow Germany's lead
Bobbee Murr - Portland, Ore.
Thanks to the vision and action of many animal services staff and volunteers across the USA, one day, I believe, the killing of homeless pets finally will end. Those working in the animal services field and pet owners need to help the United States match Germany's high standard of keeping healthy animals and those who have treatable conditions alive. It is a moral imperative of humanity to eliminate the shamefully high kill rates at facilities that call themselves "shelters."
Reference:USA Today
From the West Indies to a van in the Borders - rare animals smuggling ring smashed
A SMUGGLING ring bringing endangered tortoises and parrots into the UK has been smashed by wildlife investigators.
The breakthrough came after officials acting on a tip-off stopped a van in Galashiels, Selkirkshire, and discovered 15 of the reptiles and two parrots in cramped conditions.
It is understood the tortoises were being delivered to Scottish addresses after being sold through advertisements and the internet, for prices in excess of £150 each.
Some of the breeds of tortoises recovered from the van, which had travelled from the south of England, are on the verge of extinction.
They had been captured from the wild and brought into Britain to be used in breeding for the pet trade.
But the practice is illegal as they are endangered species.
One investigator said: "This is just the tip of the iceberg and it is a significant development. We expect this discovery will lead to arrests in England.
"There is legal breeding of tortoises and illegal breeding of tortoises and this definitely comes into the latter category.
"They were being delivered to homes throughout Scotland but people are probably unaware that they are breaking the law buying them this way.
"Proper documentation for the tortoises is required from the Department of Environment Food and Rural Affairs and this smuggling is becoming big business and a major problem."
The source added: "Gone are the days of the £2 tortoise being put in the garden to crawl about. The tortoises, some of whom are from breeds which are critically endangered, were not in good condition so this raid was a major success as this practice needs to be stamped out.
"One of the breeds was sub-tropical, coming from the West Indies, so this smuggling venture appears to be worldwide. But we suspect they are being brought in from somewhere in Europe."
The joint operation was conducted by Lothian and Borders Police and the Scottish Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals.
Two men were detained after the van was stopped and interviewed before being released. The tortoises are being looked after at SSPCA centres.
Investigators are still establishing how the tortoises, which come from around the world, managed to get into Britain via Europe.
Constable Mark Rafferty, wildlife crime officer with Lothian and Borders Police, who featured recently in BBC Scotland's documentary Wildlife Detectives, confirmed the operation had taken place in conjunction with the SSPCA. He said 15 tortoises had been recovered.
"Our inquiries are continuing and we hope to be a position to make more arrests soon.
"It is another example of agencies working well together to stamp out wildlife crime," he added.
Doreen Graham, a spokeswoman for the SSPCA, said: "We would ask the Scottish public to help us track information to establish the size of the trade.
"We would like to speak to anyone who has bought any tortoise this year. We would ask them to contact us on 0870 240 4832."
The maximum sentence for being involved in the smuggling and sale of endangered species is two years in prison or a £10,000 fine under the Animal Health and Welfare (Scotland) Act 2006 and regulations controlling the trade in endangered species.
This article: http://news.scotsman.com/scotland.cfm?id=1316362007
A SMUGGLING ring bringing endangered tortoises and parrots into the UK has been smashed by wildlife investigators.
The breakthrough came after officials acting on a tip-off stopped a van in Galashiels, Selkirkshire, and discovered 15 of the reptiles and two parrots in cramped conditions.
It is understood the tortoises were being delivered to Scottish addresses after being sold through advertisements and the internet, for prices in excess of £150 each.
Some of the breeds of tortoises recovered from the van, which had travelled from the south of England, are on the verge of extinction.
They had been captured from the wild and brought into Britain to be used in breeding for the pet trade.
But the practice is illegal as they are endangered species.
One investigator said: "This is just the tip of the iceberg and it is a significant development. We expect this discovery will lead to arrests in England.
"There is legal breeding of tortoises and illegal breeding of tortoises and this definitely comes into the latter category.
"They were being delivered to homes throughout Scotland but people are probably unaware that they are breaking the law buying them this way.
"Proper documentation for the tortoises is required from the Department of Environment Food and Rural Affairs and this smuggling is becoming big business and a major problem."
The source added: "Gone are the days of the £2 tortoise being put in the garden to crawl about. The tortoises, some of whom are from breeds which are critically endangered, were not in good condition so this raid was a major success as this practice needs to be stamped out.
"One of the breeds was sub-tropical, coming from the West Indies, so this smuggling venture appears to be worldwide. But we suspect they are being brought in from somewhere in Europe."
The joint operation was conducted by Lothian and Borders Police and the Scottish Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals.
Two men were detained after the van was stopped and interviewed before being released. The tortoises are being looked after at SSPCA centres.
Investigators are still establishing how the tortoises, which come from around the world, managed to get into Britain via Europe.
Constable Mark Rafferty, wildlife crime officer with Lothian and Borders Police, who featured recently in BBC Scotland's documentary Wildlife Detectives, confirmed the operation had taken place in conjunction with the SSPCA. He said 15 tortoises had been recovered.
"Our inquiries are continuing and we hope to be a position to make more arrests soon.
"It is another example of agencies working well together to stamp out wildlife crime," he added.
Doreen Graham, a spokeswoman for the SSPCA, said: "We would ask the Scottish public to help us track information to establish the size of the trade.
"We would like to speak to anyone who has bought any tortoise this year. We would ask them to contact us on 0870 240 4832."
The maximum sentence for being involved in the smuggling and sale of endangered species is two years in prison or a £10,000 fine under the Animal Health and Welfare (Scotland) Act 2006 and regulations controlling the trade in endangered species.
This article: http://news.scotsman.com/scotland.cfm?id=1316362007
A SMUGGLING ring bringing endangered tortoises and parrots into the UK has been smashed by wildlife investigators.
The breakthrough came after officials acting on a tip-off stopped a van in Galashiels, Selkirkshire, and discovered 15 of the reptiles and two parrots in cramped conditions.
It is understood the tortoises were being delivered to Scottish addresses after being sold through advertisements and the internet, for prices in excess of £150 each.
Some of the breeds of tortoises recovered from the van, which had travelled from the south of England, are on the verge of extinction.
They had been captured from the wild and brought into Britain to be used in breeding for the pet trade.
But the practice is illegal as they are endangered species.
One investigator said: "This is just the tip of the iceberg and it is a significant development. We expect this discovery will lead to arrests in England.
"There is legal breeding of tortoises and illegal breeding of tortoises and this definitely comes into the latter category.
"They were being delivered to homes throughout Scotland but people are probably unaware that they are breaking the law buying them this way.
"Proper documentation for the tortoises is required from the Department of Environment Food and Rural Affairs and this smuggling is becoming big business and a major problem."
The source added: "Gone are the days of the £2 tortoise being put in the garden to crawl about. The tortoises, some of whom are from breeds which are critically endangered, were not in good condition so this raid was a major success as this practice needs to be stamped out.
"One of the breeds was sub-tropical, coming from the West Indies, so this smuggling venture appears to be worldwide. But we suspect they are being brought in from somewhere in Europe."
The joint operation was conducted by Lothian and Borders Police and the Scottish Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals.
Two men were detained after the van was stopped and interviewed before being released. The tortoises are being looked after at SSPCA centres.
Investigators are still establishing how the tortoises, which come from around the world, managed to get into Britain via Europe.
Constable Mark Rafferty, wildlife crime officer with Lothian and Borders Police, who featured recently in BBC Scotland's documentary Wildlife Detectives, confirmed the operation had taken place in conjunction with the SSPCA. He said 15 tortoises had been recovered.
"Our inquiries are continuing and we hope to be a position to make more arrests soon.
"It is another example of agencies working well together to stamp out wildlife crime," he added.
Doreen Graham, a spokeswoman for the SSPCA, said: "We would ask the Scottish public to help us track information to establish the size of the trade.
"We would like to speak to anyone who has bought any tortoise this year. We would ask them to contact us on 0870 240 4832."
The maximum sentence for being involved in the smuggling and sale of endangered species is two years in prison or a £10,000 fine under the Animal Health and Welfare (Scotland) Act 2006 and regulations controlling the trade in endangered species.
Reference:news
The breakthrough came after officials acting on a tip-off stopped a van in Galashiels, Selkirkshire, and discovered 15 of the reptiles and two parrots in cramped conditions.
It is understood the tortoises were being delivered to Scottish addresses after being sold through advertisements and the internet, for prices in excess of £150 each.
Some of the breeds of tortoises recovered from the van, which had travelled from the south of England, are on the verge of extinction.
They had been captured from the wild and brought into Britain to be used in breeding for the pet trade.
But the practice is illegal as they are endangered species.
One investigator said: "This is just the tip of the iceberg and it is a significant development. We expect this discovery will lead to arrests in England.
"There is legal breeding of tortoises and illegal breeding of tortoises and this definitely comes into the latter category.
"They were being delivered to homes throughout Scotland but people are probably unaware that they are breaking the law buying them this way.
"Proper documentation for the tortoises is required from the Department of Environment Food and Rural Affairs and this smuggling is becoming big business and a major problem."
The source added: "Gone are the days of the £2 tortoise being put in the garden to crawl about. The tortoises, some of whom are from breeds which are critically endangered, were not in good condition so this raid was a major success as this practice needs to be stamped out.
"One of the breeds was sub-tropical, coming from the West Indies, so this smuggling venture appears to be worldwide. But we suspect they are being brought in from somewhere in Europe."
The joint operation was conducted by Lothian and Borders Police and the Scottish Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals.
Two men were detained after the van was stopped and interviewed before being released. The tortoises are being looked after at SSPCA centres.
Investigators are still establishing how the tortoises, which come from around the world, managed to get into Britain via Europe.
Constable Mark Rafferty, wildlife crime officer with Lothian and Borders Police, who featured recently in BBC Scotland's documentary Wildlife Detectives, confirmed the operation had taken place in conjunction with the SSPCA. He said 15 tortoises had been recovered.
"Our inquiries are continuing and we hope to be a position to make more arrests soon.
"It is another example of agencies working well together to stamp out wildlife crime," he added.
Doreen Graham, a spokeswoman for the SSPCA, said: "We would ask the Scottish public to help us track information to establish the size of the trade.
"We would like to speak to anyone who has bought any tortoise this year. We would ask them to contact us on 0870 240 4832."
The maximum sentence for being involved in the smuggling and sale of endangered species is two years in prison or a £10,000 fine under the Animal Health and Welfare (Scotland) Act 2006 and regulations controlling the trade in endangered species.
This article: http://news.scotsman.com/scotland.cfm?id=1316362007
A SMUGGLING ring bringing endangered tortoises and parrots into the UK has been smashed by wildlife investigators.
The breakthrough came after officials acting on a tip-off stopped a van in Galashiels, Selkirkshire, and discovered 15 of the reptiles and two parrots in cramped conditions.
It is understood the tortoises were being delivered to Scottish addresses after being sold through advertisements and the internet, for prices in excess of £150 each.
Some of the breeds of tortoises recovered from the van, which had travelled from the south of England, are on the verge of extinction.
They had been captured from the wild and brought into Britain to be used in breeding for the pet trade.
But the practice is illegal as they are endangered species.
One investigator said: "This is just the tip of the iceberg and it is a significant development. We expect this discovery will lead to arrests in England.
"There is legal breeding of tortoises and illegal breeding of tortoises and this definitely comes into the latter category.
"They were being delivered to homes throughout Scotland but people are probably unaware that they are breaking the law buying them this way.
"Proper documentation for the tortoises is required from the Department of Environment Food and Rural Affairs and this smuggling is becoming big business and a major problem."
The source added: "Gone are the days of the £2 tortoise being put in the garden to crawl about. The tortoises, some of whom are from breeds which are critically endangered, were not in good condition so this raid was a major success as this practice needs to be stamped out.
"One of the breeds was sub-tropical, coming from the West Indies, so this smuggling venture appears to be worldwide. But we suspect they are being brought in from somewhere in Europe."
The joint operation was conducted by Lothian and Borders Police and the Scottish Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals.
Two men were detained after the van was stopped and interviewed before being released. The tortoises are being looked after at SSPCA centres.
Investigators are still establishing how the tortoises, which come from around the world, managed to get into Britain via Europe.
Constable Mark Rafferty, wildlife crime officer with Lothian and Borders Police, who featured recently in BBC Scotland's documentary Wildlife Detectives, confirmed the operation had taken place in conjunction with the SSPCA. He said 15 tortoises had been recovered.
"Our inquiries are continuing and we hope to be a position to make more arrests soon.
"It is another example of agencies working well together to stamp out wildlife crime," he added.
Doreen Graham, a spokeswoman for the SSPCA, said: "We would ask the Scottish public to help us track information to establish the size of the trade.
"We would like to speak to anyone who has bought any tortoise this year. We would ask them to contact us on 0870 240 4832."
The maximum sentence for being involved in the smuggling and sale of endangered species is two years in prison or a £10,000 fine under the Animal Health and Welfare (Scotland) Act 2006 and regulations controlling the trade in endangered species.
This article: http://news.scotsman.com/scotland.cfm?id=1316362007
A SMUGGLING ring bringing endangered tortoises and parrots into the UK has been smashed by wildlife investigators.
The breakthrough came after officials acting on a tip-off stopped a van in Galashiels, Selkirkshire, and discovered 15 of the reptiles and two parrots in cramped conditions.
It is understood the tortoises were being delivered to Scottish addresses after being sold through advertisements and the internet, for prices in excess of £150 each.
Some of the breeds of tortoises recovered from the van, which had travelled from the south of England, are on the verge of extinction.
They had been captured from the wild and brought into Britain to be used in breeding for the pet trade.
But the practice is illegal as they are endangered species.
One investigator said: "This is just the tip of the iceberg and it is a significant development. We expect this discovery will lead to arrests in England.
"There is legal breeding of tortoises and illegal breeding of tortoises and this definitely comes into the latter category.
"They were being delivered to homes throughout Scotland but people are probably unaware that they are breaking the law buying them this way.
"Proper documentation for the tortoises is required from the Department of Environment Food and Rural Affairs and this smuggling is becoming big business and a major problem."
The source added: "Gone are the days of the £2 tortoise being put in the garden to crawl about. The tortoises, some of whom are from breeds which are critically endangered, were not in good condition so this raid was a major success as this practice needs to be stamped out.
"One of the breeds was sub-tropical, coming from the West Indies, so this smuggling venture appears to be worldwide. But we suspect they are being brought in from somewhere in Europe."
The joint operation was conducted by Lothian and Borders Police and the Scottish Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals.
Two men were detained after the van was stopped and interviewed before being released. The tortoises are being looked after at SSPCA centres.
Investigators are still establishing how the tortoises, which come from around the world, managed to get into Britain via Europe.
Constable Mark Rafferty, wildlife crime officer with Lothian and Borders Police, who featured recently in BBC Scotland's documentary Wildlife Detectives, confirmed the operation had taken place in conjunction with the SSPCA. He said 15 tortoises had been recovered.
"Our inquiries are continuing and we hope to be a position to make more arrests soon.
"It is another example of agencies working well together to stamp out wildlife crime," he added.
Doreen Graham, a spokeswoman for the SSPCA, said: "We would ask the Scottish public to help us track information to establish the size of the trade.
"We would like to speak to anyone who has bought any tortoise this year. We would ask them to contact us on 0870 240 4832."
The maximum sentence for being involved in the smuggling and sale of endangered species is two years in prison or a £10,000 fine under the Animal Health and Welfare (Scotland) Act 2006 and regulations controlling the trade in endangered species.
Reference:news
Wednesday, August 15, 2007
UAN Offers Pet Safety Tips for Hawaii Residents in Path of Hurricane Flossie
SACRAMENTO, CA (August 14, 2006) – As Hurricane Flossie approaches Hawaii, United Animal Nations (UAN) is encouraging residents to keep their pets safe during the severe weather by taking the following steps:
Bring all pets indoors. Pets left to fend for themselves in high winds and heavy rain can get injured, lost or die.
Comfort animals and provide distraction. If your pet is scared, providing familiar toys, treats and a quiet place to rest, such as a carrier or crate, may provide a sense of security and comfort.
Assemble an animal disaster kit that includes food, water, medications, a leash or cat carrier, and photos of the animal(s). This kit will prove useful if roads are blocked, stores are closed or residents must evacuate.
Make sure all pets have an identification tag and permanent microchip so they can be found easily if lost or separated.
Identify potential pet-friendly evacuation locations in advance. A searchable database of pet-friendly accommodations is available at www.petswelcome.com or www.petfriendlyhotelsandtravel.com. Residents wanting to find pet-friendly shelters in their community can also call their local American Red Cross chapter or their county Civil Defense Agency.
Through its volunteer-driven Emergency Animal Rescue Service (EARS), UAN provides free emergency sheltering and disaster relief services for animals in communities that become overwhelmed by natural disasters or other crises. Since 1987, UAN has responded to 70 disasters, including Hurricane Katrina in 2005. With more than 3,400 EARS volunteers in the United States and Canada, UAN can provide the following services to communities in need:
Set up and operate temporary animal relief shelters
Evacuate animals from a disaster site
Rescue abandoned and stranded animals
Feed and care for displaced animals
Transport animals and coordinate veterinary care
Distribute food and supplies to the community
Reunite lost animals with their caregivers and find permanent new homes for unclaimed animals
Emergency management and animal control agencies in the state of Hawaii
can call United Animal Nations at (916) 429-2457 for assistance with animal-related issues.
Now celebrating its 20th year, United Animal Nations (UAN) is North America ’s leading provider of emergency animal sheltering and disaster relief services and a key advocate for the critical needs of animals.
Bring all pets indoors. Pets left to fend for themselves in high winds and heavy rain can get injured, lost or die.
Comfort animals and provide distraction. If your pet is scared, providing familiar toys, treats and a quiet place to rest, such as a carrier or crate, may provide a sense of security and comfort.
Assemble an animal disaster kit that includes food, water, medications, a leash or cat carrier, and photos of the animal(s). This kit will prove useful if roads are blocked, stores are closed or residents must evacuate.
Make sure all pets have an identification tag and permanent microchip so they can be found easily if lost or separated.
Identify potential pet-friendly evacuation locations in advance. A searchable database of pet-friendly accommodations is available at www.petswelcome.com or www.petfriendlyhotelsandtravel.com. Residents wanting to find pet-friendly shelters in their community can also call their local American Red Cross chapter or their county Civil Defense Agency.
Through its volunteer-driven Emergency Animal Rescue Service (EARS), UAN provides free emergency sheltering and disaster relief services for animals in communities that become overwhelmed by natural disasters or other crises. Since 1987, UAN has responded to 70 disasters, including Hurricane Katrina in 2005. With more than 3,400 EARS volunteers in the United States and Canada, UAN can provide the following services to communities in need:
Set up and operate temporary animal relief shelters
Evacuate animals from a disaster site
Rescue abandoned and stranded animals
Feed and care for displaced animals
Transport animals and coordinate veterinary care
Distribute food and supplies to the community
Reunite lost animals with their caregivers and find permanent new homes for unclaimed animals
Emergency management and animal control agencies in the state of Hawaii
can call United Animal Nations at (916) 429-2457 for assistance with animal-related issues.
Now celebrating its 20th year, United Animal Nations (UAN) is North America ’s leading provider of emergency animal sheltering and disaster relief services and a key advocate for the critical needs of animals.
Thursday, June 07, 2007
Feds involved in dog fighting probe
Associated Press - June 7, 2007 7:33 PM ET
SURRY, Va. (AP) - It appears federal officials are taking over the investigation into dogfighting in a home owned by Atlanta Falcons quarterback Michael Vick.
Federal law enforcement officials descended on the property today armed with a search warrant and went through the house and its surroundings. Officials found dozen of dogs on the site in late April and evidence of dog fighting.
Commonwealth's Attorney Gerald Poindexter questioned why the federal authorities were getting involved in an investigation that local official were handling properly.
Surry county officials had secured a search warrant in late May based on an informant's information that as many as 30 dog carcasses were buried on the property. But Poindexter objected to the wording of the warrant and it was never executed.
Reference:wane
SURRY, Va. (AP) - It appears federal officials are taking over the investigation into dogfighting in a home owned by Atlanta Falcons quarterback Michael Vick.
Federal law enforcement officials descended on the property today armed with a search warrant and went through the house and its surroundings. Officials found dozen of dogs on the site in late April and evidence of dog fighting.
Commonwealth's Attorney Gerald Poindexter questioned why the federal authorities were getting involved in an investigation that local official were handling properly.
Surry county officials had secured a search warrant in late May based on an informant's information that as many as 30 dog carcasses were buried on the property. But Poindexter objected to the wording of the warrant and it was never executed.
Reference:wane
June is Adopt A Shelter Cat-Month
During the month of June you will probably be hearing many reasons to adopt a cat or kitten. Who gets the most out of Adopt A Shelter Cat Month? It goes both ways actually. The cat that enter the shelter/rescue is probably scared or confused. Once adopted they get a second chance with people who love, care and play with it. The cat gets a warm, dry and cuddly human. There may even be other fellow cats to keep him or her company while you are gone.
However, you get to save a life. Give a cat or kitten a loving home with food and water. What more can a cat ask for? Besides love from a human family. Being associated with humans for over 9,500 years, cats have become one of the worlds most popular pets. You'll never have trouble finding other people who are willing and can talk about their cats all day.
The lifespan of the cat is typically from 14 to 20 years. Reducing the risk of injury from fights or accidents, and exposure to diseases cats can live longer if they are not permitted outdoors. The cat is intelligent and can be trained to obey simple commands. Individual cats have also been known to learn to manipulate simple mechanisms.
Most breeds of cat have a noted fondness for settling in high places, or perching. Animal behaviorists have posited a number of explanations, the most common being that height gives the cat a better observation point, allowing it to survey its "territory" and become aware of activities of people and other pets in the area. In the wild, a higher place may serve as a concealed site from which to hunt; domestic cats are known to strike prey by pouncing from such a perch as a tree branch, as does a leopard.[17] Height, therefore, can also give cats a sense of security and prestige.
Domestic cats, especially young kittens, are known for their love of string play. Many cats cannot resist a dangling piece of string, or a piece of rope drawn randomly and enticingly across the floor. This well known love of string is often depicted in cartoons and photographs, which show kittens or cats playing with balls of yarn. It is probably related to hunting instincts, including the common practice of kittens hunting their mother's and each other's tails.
If string is ingested, however, it can become caught in the cat’s stomach or intestines, causing illness, or in extreme cases, death. Due to possible complications caused by ingesting a string, string play is sometimes replaced with a laser pointer's dot, which some cats will chase. Some also discourage the use of laser pointers for pet play, however, because of the potential damage to sensitive eyes and/or the possible loss of satisfaction associated with the successful capture of an actual prey object, play or real.
References:wikipedia
However, you get to save a life. Give a cat or kitten a loving home with food and water. What more can a cat ask for? Besides love from a human family. Being associated with humans for over 9,500 years, cats have become one of the worlds most popular pets. You'll never have trouble finding other people who are willing and can talk about their cats all day.
The lifespan of the cat is typically from 14 to 20 years. Reducing the risk of injury from fights or accidents, and exposure to diseases cats can live longer if they are not permitted outdoors. The cat is intelligent and can be trained to obey simple commands. Individual cats have also been known to learn to manipulate simple mechanisms.
Most breeds of cat have a noted fondness for settling in high places, or perching. Animal behaviorists have posited a number of explanations, the most common being that height gives the cat a better observation point, allowing it to survey its "territory" and become aware of activities of people and other pets in the area. In the wild, a higher place may serve as a concealed site from which to hunt; domestic cats are known to strike prey by pouncing from such a perch as a tree branch, as does a leopard.[17] Height, therefore, can also give cats a sense of security and prestige.
Domestic cats, especially young kittens, are known for their love of string play. Many cats cannot resist a dangling piece of string, or a piece of rope drawn randomly and enticingly across the floor. This well known love of string is often depicted in cartoons and photographs, which show kittens or cats playing with balls of yarn. It is probably related to hunting instincts, including the common practice of kittens hunting their mother's and each other's tails.
If string is ingested, however, it can become caught in the cat’s stomach or intestines, causing illness, or in extreme cases, death. Due to possible complications caused by ingesting a string, string play is sometimes replaced with a laser pointer's dot, which some cats will chase. Some also discourage the use of laser pointers for pet play, however, because of the potential damage to sensitive eyes and/or the possible loss of satisfaction associated with the successful capture of an actual prey object, play or real.
References:wikipedia
Bird Feeding Precautions Urged In Wash.
OLYMPIA, Wash. -- After reports of sick or dead birds at back-yard feeders in Washington, the state Department of Fish and Wildlife has recommended that people temporarily discontinue bird feeding or take extra steps to keep their feeders clean.
Veterinarian Dr. Kristin Mansfield advised for people to stop back-yard bird feeding for at least a few weeks, if not for the remainder of the summer, to encourage birds to disperse and forage naturally.
She said laboratory analysis of bird carcasses has confirmed salmonellosis, a common and usually fatal bird disease caused by the salmonella bacteria.
Mansfield said salmonellosis is probably the most common avian disease at feeders in the state, with the disease afflicting species such as finches, grosbeaks and pine siskins that flock together in large numbers at feeders.
She said the birds transmit the disease through droppings.
About four dozen reports of dead birds have been received during the past several weeks involving pine siskins, goldfinches and purple finches in both eastern and western Washington.
Carcasses of purple finches and pine siskins were sent to a Washington State University laboratory for testing that confirmed the disease.
Mansfield said people who handle birds, bird feeders or bird baths should wear gloves and wash their hands thoroughly afterward.
To report a dead bird contact the Department of Fish and Wildlife at 1-800-606-8768, and to report a sick bird contact PAWS at 787-2500 ext. 817.
Reference:kirotv
Veterinarian Dr. Kristin Mansfield advised for people to stop back-yard bird feeding for at least a few weeks, if not for the remainder of the summer, to encourage birds to disperse and forage naturally.
She said laboratory analysis of bird carcasses has confirmed salmonellosis, a common and usually fatal bird disease caused by the salmonella bacteria.
Mansfield said salmonellosis is probably the most common avian disease at feeders in the state, with the disease afflicting species such as finches, grosbeaks and pine siskins that flock together in large numbers at feeders.
She said the birds transmit the disease through droppings.
About four dozen reports of dead birds have been received during the past several weeks involving pine siskins, goldfinches and purple finches in both eastern and western Washington.
Carcasses of purple finches and pine siskins were sent to a Washington State University laboratory for testing that confirmed the disease.
Mansfield said people who handle birds, bird feeders or bird baths should wear gloves and wash their hands thoroughly afterward.
To report a dead bird contact the Department of Fish and Wildlife at 1-800-606-8768, and to report a sick bird contact PAWS at 787-2500 ext. 817.
Reference:kirotv
Tuesday, June 05, 2007
Giving pets a fighting chance
By Mike Melanson, Enterprise correspondent
WEST BRIDGEWATER — Saving the lives of man's four-legged friends suffering from smoke inhalation or in need of rescue is becoming a Fire Department priority, officials said.
With 24 new pet oxygen masks, emergency responders will be able to treat cats, dogs, birds, gerbils and ferrets in distress at fire calls, said Firefighter-Paramedic Shawn Morales, who is implementing the program.
According to Morales, the masks represent one more thing the department can do for West Bridgewater residents and their pets.
“It's part of the job,” said Morales, adding he got the idea from the Leominster Fire Department.
The masks come in three sizes — small, medium and large — and pump from one to seven liters of oxygen from tanks connected to the department's ambulances, engines and ladder trucks.
The eight sets of masks West Bridgewater ordered were expected to be deployed Monday, Morales said.
Morales said an emergency responder would hold the mask over the pet's muzzle as it is rushed to an animal hospital.
“We're here to help out in any way we can. Our job is to serve the community,” he said.
Fire Chief Leonard Hunt said the department will also attend an emergency first aid course for animals in the late summer or early fall at the New England Animal Medical Center in West Bridgewater.
The chief said firefighters, EMTs and paramedics are well-trained in dealing with humans and could use some training in dealing with their pet companions.
“We'd rather have it and not need it than need it and not have it,” said Hunt, who owns a dog, three cats and gerbils.
“I can't imagine losing a pet in a fire, knowing there's something we could have done to save them,” he said.
Morales contacted the Greater Worcester NEADS (National Education Assistance Dog Service) Lions Club, which has distributed 50 sets of the pet oxygen masks in central Massachusetts since the fall, said Charter President Kathy Haskell.
“It's taken off. It really has,” she said. “This is a great project for us.”
“A lot of people have pets and it means a lot to them,” said L. Doug Sime, an international director for Lions Club International.
The masks, which cost $50 per set of three masks, are sold by Best Friends Pet Care.
“Dogs help us. We need to help them, too,” said Judy Marvelli, assistant manager at the Best Friends branch in Brockton.
In addition to the NEADS Lions Club, West Bridgewater businesses sponsoring the pet oxygen masks are the New England Animal Medical Center, Club Fit, Suburban Insulation and May's Tires & Accessories, Morales said.
Reference:enterprise
WEST BRIDGEWATER — Saving the lives of man's four-legged friends suffering from smoke inhalation or in need of rescue is becoming a Fire Department priority, officials said.
With 24 new pet oxygen masks, emergency responders will be able to treat cats, dogs, birds, gerbils and ferrets in distress at fire calls, said Firefighter-Paramedic Shawn Morales, who is implementing the program.
According to Morales, the masks represent one more thing the department can do for West Bridgewater residents and their pets.
“It's part of the job,” said Morales, adding he got the idea from the Leominster Fire Department.
The masks come in three sizes — small, medium and large — and pump from one to seven liters of oxygen from tanks connected to the department's ambulances, engines and ladder trucks.
The eight sets of masks West Bridgewater ordered were expected to be deployed Monday, Morales said.
Morales said an emergency responder would hold the mask over the pet's muzzle as it is rushed to an animal hospital.
“We're here to help out in any way we can. Our job is to serve the community,” he said.
Fire Chief Leonard Hunt said the department will also attend an emergency first aid course for animals in the late summer or early fall at the New England Animal Medical Center in West Bridgewater.
The chief said firefighters, EMTs and paramedics are well-trained in dealing with humans and could use some training in dealing with their pet companions.
“We'd rather have it and not need it than need it and not have it,” said Hunt, who owns a dog, three cats and gerbils.
“I can't imagine losing a pet in a fire, knowing there's something we could have done to save them,” he said.
Morales contacted the Greater Worcester NEADS (National Education Assistance Dog Service) Lions Club, which has distributed 50 sets of the pet oxygen masks in central Massachusetts since the fall, said Charter President Kathy Haskell.
“It's taken off. It really has,” she said. “This is a great project for us.”
“A lot of people have pets and it means a lot to them,” said L. Doug Sime, an international director for Lions Club International.
The masks, which cost $50 per set of three masks, are sold by Best Friends Pet Care.
“Dogs help us. We need to help them, too,” said Judy Marvelli, assistant manager at the Best Friends branch in Brockton.
In addition to the NEADS Lions Club, West Bridgewater businesses sponsoring the pet oxygen masks are the New England Animal Medical Center, Club Fit, Suburban Insulation and May's Tires & Accessories, Morales said.
Reference:enterprise
Siouxland Humane Society Overrun With Cats and Kittens, Offering Discounts on Adoptions
June is National Adopt-A-Shelter Cat Month. The Siouxland Humane Society is highlighting cats and kittens this month. June is usually the busiest month in term of the number of cats and kittens that arrive at shelters.
"Actually we're overrun with cats and kittens right now just like most shelters around the United States. June is a very busy time for cats and kittens due to the fact of people not having their animals spayed or neutered," says Kelly Erie, Assistant Shelter Manager.
The Siouxland Humane society is offering a discount on all cat and kitten adoptions this month and is offering a two for one special for those who adopt two cats or kittens.
Everyone who adopts a cat or kitten this month will also receive free cat or kitten food and a pet taxi.
Reference:kmeg14
Want a dog but just not all the time? Pet Rentals???
Business caters to humans whose schedules put them on short leash. A Delaware-based company called Flexpetz has introduced a Flexible Dog Ownership program in Los Angeles and San Diego, employing recycled tail-waggers of every description. Now busy people can time-share a pooch — perhaps a small dog for a pocketbook shopping trip or a luxurious Afghan hound for an afternoon at the park.
“Our members realize that their busy work, family or travel schedules make full-time ownership unfair to a dog,” said Marlena Cervantes, company president and innovator. Here’s her pitch: “A Flexpetz membership enables them to become part of each Flexpetz dog’s extended family by providing a level of dog ownership on an occasional basis, while imparting each dog with the love of multiple human friends.”
The dogs are all AKC Canine Good Citizens — some are certified therapy pets — and chosen for their stellar personalities. Members can borrow them for hours or days for a monthly membership fee of $39.95, plus a daily fee.
What is your opinion on this? Should dogs be rentals or should they have forever homes?
Reference:Kansascity
“Our members realize that their busy work, family or travel schedules make full-time ownership unfair to a dog,” said Marlena Cervantes, company president and innovator. Here’s her pitch: “A Flexpetz membership enables them to become part of each Flexpetz dog’s extended family by providing a level of dog ownership on an occasional basis, while imparting each dog with the love of multiple human friends.”
The dogs are all AKC Canine Good Citizens — some are certified therapy pets — and chosen for their stellar personalities. Members can borrow them for hours or days for a monthly membership fee of $39.95, plus a daily fee.
What is your opinion on this? Should dogs be rentals or should they have forever homes?
Reference:Kansascity
Bees sting Hereford man 250 times
Sandy Rathbun Reports
A Southern Arizona man survives being attacked by hundreds of bees. Thom Housley, 65, was attacked in his neighbor's yard Saturday in Hereford. Housley says, "I was beating them with my hat and they were mostly on my head and hands and then some down my back." Housley says doctors pulled 250 stingers out of him. Africanized bee stingers.
He says, "I was in dire trouble." Housley was driving his tractor and mowing his neighbor's yard when he thought he drove into a swarm of moths, then realized they were bees. Terrified, he jumped off the moving tractor. Since he was a boy he was told he was deathly allergic to bees.
Housley says, "I was thinking I was going to die, because pretty soon I'm not going to be able to breathe." Neighbor Tommy Cosby helped Housley into his home, then called paramedics. Cosby, who also got stung, says, "I knew he was hurt from the way he was hollering." After the attack, Reed Booth, who calls his business "The Killer Bee Guy," removed the bees.
Booth says, "I am personally surprised that no one died." He says, "It was insane. It turned out that there were two large hives underneath this trailer." Booth says, "These two hives combined had over a quarter of a million bees in it. It only takes 500 stings to equal a rattlesnake bite." Booth figures the bees had been there a long time. Why did Housley's tractor set them off?
Booth says, "They hate whirring sounds, motors and engines." He says, "All of the bee hives in Arizona now are Africanized. They're all bombs waiting to go off." Housley says from now on doctors have told him to carry a vial of drugs with him everywhere he goes in case he gets stung again. He says, "You pull the top off and jab it into your leg." Housley believes his story has there's a lesson for all of us. He says, "just respect them bees."
Reference:KVOA
A Southern Arizona man survives being attacked by hundreds of bees. Thom Housley, 65, was attacked in his neighbor's yard Saturday in Hereford. Housley says, "I was beating them with my hat and they were mostly on my head and hands and then some down my back." Housley says doctors pulled 250 stingers out of him. Africanized bee stingers.
He says, "I was in dire trouble." Housley was driving his tractor and mowing his neighbor's yard when he thought he drove into a swarm of moths, then realized they were bees. Terrified, he jumped off the moving tractor. Since he was a boy he was told he was deathly allergic to bees.
Housley says, "I was thinking I was going to die, because pretty soon I'm not going to be able to breathe." Neighbor Tommy Cosby helped Housley into his home, then called paramedics. Cosby, who also got stung, says, "I knew he was hurt from the way he was hollering." After the attack, Reed Booth, who calls his business "The Killer Bee Guy," removed the bees.
Booth says, "I am personally surprised that no one died." He says, "It was insane. It turned out that there were two large hives underneath this trailer." Booth says, "These two hives combined had over a quarter of a million bees in it. It only takes 500 stings to equal a rattlesnake bite." Booth figures the bees had been there a long time. Why did Housley's tractor set them off?
Booth says, "They hate whirring sounds, motors and engines." He says, "All of the bee hives in Arizona now are Africanized. They're all bombs waiting to go off." Housley says from now on doctors have told him to carry a vial of drugs with him everywhere he goes in case he gets stung again. He says, "You pull the top off and jab it into your leg." Housley believes his story has there's a lesson for all of us. He says, "just respect them bees."
Reference:KVOA
Tucson ranked in Top 5 of most "dog friendly" cities
Dara Demi Reports
Tails are waggin' in the city of Tucson!
Men's Health Magazine has rated the Old Pueblo one of the most "dog friendly" places in the U.S. Out of 50 cities, Tucson ranked #4 behind Albuquerque (#3), Colorado Springs (#2) and Portland (#1).
Rebecca Weissman is one of many dog owners in Tucson who loves playing with her pups at the Reid Park dog park. And man's best friends don't mind much, either. "They get excited," says Rebecca. "I mean, every morning, when they wake me up, they're like, 'let's go, mom! let's go, let's go, let's go!'"
"They love it here," says dog owner Eric Frias. "They like to socialize with the other dogs. It's great." "It's great to have a place like a dog park," says dog owner Rebecca Lipson, "where they can go off leash, because they just don't get enough exercise just with me!" Men's Health Magazine thinks that kind of freedom makes dogs happy. That's why it factored the number of dog parks per city into its rankings.
Tucson has six, and that helped us "claw" our way to the top.Another reason Tucson is top dog: the abundance of animal health care. Men's Health Magazine found Tucson has more veterinarians than any other city it surveyed."
"There's easy access to a veterinarian," says Eric, "and I feel good about that. They get the proper care that they need." Men's Health believes healthy dogs are happy dogs. And that includes strays. Cities like Tucson with shelters to care for homeless dogs rated higher than the rest.
Reference:KVOA
Tails are waggin' in the city of Tucson!
Men's Health Magazine has rated the Old Pueblo one of the most "dog friendly" places in the U.S. Out of 50 cities, Tucson ranked #4 behind Albuquerque (#3), Colorado Springs (#2) and Portland (#1).
Rebecca Weissman is one of many dog owners in Tucson who loves playing with her pups at the Reid Park dog park. And man's best friends don't mind much, either. "They get excited," says Rebecca. "I mean, every morning, when they wake me up, they're like, 'let's go, mom! let's go, let's go, let's go!'"
"They love it here," says dog owner Eric Frias. "They like to socialize with the other dogs. It's great." "It's great to have a place like a dog park," says dog owner Rebecca Lipson, "where they can go off leash, because they just don't get enough exercise just with me!" Men's Health Magazine thinks that kind of freedom makes dogs happy. That's why it factored the number of dog parks per city into its rankings.
Tucson has six, and that helped us "claw" our way to the top.Another reason Tucson is top dog: the abundance of animal health care. Men's Health Magazine found Tucson has more veterinarians than any other city it surveyed."
"There's easy access to a veterinarian," says Eric, "and I feel good about that. They get the proper care that they need." Men's Health believes healthy dogs are happy dogs. And that includes strays. Cities like Tucson with shelters to care for homeless dogs rated higher than the rest.
Reference:KVOA
Eating live frogs, rats "cures tummy upsets"
BEIJING (Reuters) - A man in southeast China says 40 years of swallowing tree frogs and rats live has helped him avoid intestinal complaints and made him strong.
Reuters Photo:Jiang Musheng, a 66-year-old resident, eats a live tree frog at a village in Shangrao,...
Jiang Musheng, a 66-year-old resident of Jiangxi province, suffered from frequent abdominal pains and coughing from the age of 26, until an old man called Yang Dingcai suggested tree frogs as a remedy, the Beijing News said on Tuesday.
"At first, Jiang Musheng did not dare to eat a live, wriggling frog, but after seeing Yang Dingcai swallow one, he ate ... two without a thought," the paper said.
"After a month of eating live frogs, his stomach pains and coughing were completely gone." Over the years Jiang had added live mice, baby rats and green frogs to his diet, and had once eaten 20 mice in a single day, the paper said.
Yahoo
Pet lion, tiger kill man at feeding time
Article from: Reuters
A LION and a tiger kept as exotic pets on the roof of a Mexican meat processing plant have killed a man feeding them, Mexican media have said.
Caretaker Angel Aguilar, 56, was taking pieces of chicken to feed the two big cats when the lion swiped at him through the bars of its cage and pulled him inside, Reforma daily said.
The tiger then joined in the attack.
Paramedics arrived at the plant in the Mexico City suburb of Iztapalapa while the man was still alive but they could not get past the animals to treat him.
The two big cats, which had separate quarters of a big cage but came together to eat, were kept by the plant's owner as pets and in good condition, according to reports.
After the attack, which left scraps of bloodstained clothing on the floor of the cage, the animals were sedated and the tiger's jaws tied around a chunk of wood.
The tiger later died, apparently of suffocation, after being transported by animal protection authorities to a nearby zoo in a small container.
The lion survived the journey.
news
A LION and a tiger kept as exotic pets on the roof of a Mexican meat processing plant have killed a man feeding them, Mexican media have said.
Caretaker Angel Aguilar, 56, was taking pieces of chicken to feed the two big cats when the lion swiped at him through the bars of its cage and pulled him inside, Reforma daily said.
The tiger then joined in the attack.
Paramedics arrived at the plant in the Mexico City suburb of Iztapalapa while the man was still alive but they could not get past the animals to treat him.
The two big cats, which had separate quarters of a big cage but came together to eat, were kept by the plant's owner as pets and in good condition, according to reports.
After the attack, which left scraps of bloodstained clothing on the floor of the cage, the animals were sedated and the tiger's jaws tied around a chunk of wood.
The tiger later died, apparently of suffocation, after being transported by animal protection authorities to a nearby zoo in a small container.
The lion survived the journey.
news
Thursday, May 03, 2007
Dog owners growl about proposed limit
By Brian Mosely
The number of pets allowed in a yard may be re-examined after the Shelbyville City council got an earful from concerned dog owners about animal control proposals.
Council members have been wrestling with how to deal with changing the city's code on animal control, which came following several dog attacks, including the attack on a Shelbyville woman by two pit bull dogs last November.
A new section to the city code is currently being considered regarding limitations on keeping animals outdoors. This would limit the number of animals allowed based on lot size.
The most critical component, the dangerous dog section, is already going through the process of becoming law, with a second reading set for the next council meeting on May 10.
However, a misunderstanding has arisen over the limitations with some interpreting it to mean that they would have to get rid of some pets if the ordinance is passed. City Manager Ed Craig explained that those animals would be grandfathered in.
One woman took strong objection to limiting the number of animals a person could keep. Debbie Corvino asked the council if they were trying to stop her "from extending my family."
Corvino said that she already has four dogs and asked why she would be prevented from adopting more. "These animals are like my children," she said.
She continued to ask why she was being punished for the irresponsible actions of others, saying that "good people are being punished for the bad people."
"You don't mess with my kids," she said.
In the current proposal, for a lot three acres or smaller, the total number of animals allowed outside would be no more than two cats, two dogs, one rooster, four chickens, four ducks, four rabbits, but no horses or cows. Property that is three to five acres may have one horse and cow each and a lot over five acres would be permitted to have two each.
The animals kept outside would have to be maintained to eliminate any nuisance disturbing the peace and enjoyment of the neighborhood, unsanitary conditions or an unsightly appearance.
All animals must be kept in a confined area and maintained in a sanitary manner. All cages or kennels used to house the animal must conform to the city's accessory use regulation, which allows only 25 percent of the property be used for the pens.
A transitional period will be provided, giving those with animals 45 days from the effective date to comply with the new requirements. The animals with the license would be able to stay on the premises where they are licensed until they are sold, transferred to another location or die.
Persons owning or keeping roosters, chickens, ducks or rabbits over the limit would have one year to meet the requirement.
Transition licenses would be issued by animal control to each animal that is kept in excess of what the new section of the code allows. The license would be specific to the location and after completing the application, an animal control officer will inspect the outdoor facility and photograph each animal.
The animal control officer may require that an identification microchip be implanted if he determines it is necessary to identify the animal in the future.
Another part of the animal control issue concerns amending the city's zoning ordinance to create a special exception for "hobby kennels," which is defined as an outdoor pen, maintained by the owner for housing, breeding or training dogs, cats, or rabbits owned by the person and not for others. A kennel is defined as a facility that is operated commercially.
The special conditions would require the owner to provide a site plan or other documents that would show location, property lines, proposed fencing and how sanitation would be maintained.
The permit would only be given to the owner or occupant of the property, no signs advertising the hobby kennel would be permitted, no grooming, boarding or other commercial service would be allowed and the applicant will have to establish that the hobby kennel would not have an adverse effect on the surrounding neighborhood.
Reference:t-g
The number of pets allowed in a yard may be re-examined after the Shelbyville City council got an earful from concerned dog owners about animal control proposals.
Council members have been wrestling with how to deal with changing the city's code on animal control, which came following several dog attacks, including the attack on a Shelbyville woman by two pit bull dogs last November.
A new section to the city code is currently being considered regarding limitations on keeping animals outdoors. This would limit the number of animals allowed based on lot size.
The most critical component, the dangerous dog section, is already going through the process of becoming law, with a second reading set for the next council meeting on May 10.
However, a misunderstanding has arisen over the limitations with some interpreting it to mean that they would have to get rid of some pets if the ordinance is passed. City Manager Ed Craig explained that those animals would be grandfathered in.
One woman took strong objection to limiting the number of animals a person could keep. Debbie Corvino asked the council if they were trying to stop her "from extending my family."
Corvino said that she already has four dogs and asked why she would be prevented from adopting more. "These animals are like my children," she said.
She continued to ask why she was being punished for the irresponsible actions of others, saying that "good people are being punished for the bad people."
"You don't mess with my kids," she said.
In the current proposal, for a lot three acres or smaller, the total number of animals allowed outside would be no more than two cats, two dogs, one rooster, four chickens, four ducks, four rabbits, but no horses or cows. Property that is three to five acres may have one horse and cow each and a lot over five acres would be permitted to have two each.
The animals kept outside would have to be maintained to eliminate any nuisance disturbing the peace and enjoyment of the neighborhood, unsanitary conditions or an unsightly appearance.
All animals must be kept in a confined area and maintained in a sanitary manner. All cages or kennels used to house the animal must conform to the city's accessory use regulation, which allows only 25 percent of the property be used for the pens.
A transitional period will be provided, giving those with animals 45 days from the effective date to comply with the new requirements. The animals with the license would be able to stay on the premises where they are licensed until they are sold, transferred to another location or die.
Persons owning or keeping roosters, chickens, ducks or rabbits over the limit would have one year to meet the requirement.
Transition licenses would be issued by animal control to each animal that is kept in excess of what the new section of the code allows. The license would be specific to the location and after completing the application, an animal control officer will inspect the outdoor facility and photograph each animal.
The animal control officer may require that an identification microchip be implanted if he determines it is necessary to identify the animal in the future.
Another part of the animal control issue concerns amending the city's zoning ordinance to create a special exception for "hobby kennels," which is defined as an outdoor pen, maintained by the owner for housing, breeding or training dogs, cats, or rabbits owned by the person and not for others. A kennel is defined as a facility that is operated commercially.
The special conditions would require the owner to provide a site plan or other documents that would show location, property lines, proposed fencing and how sanitation would be maintained.
The permit would only be given to the owner or occupant of the property, no signs advertising the hobby kennel would be permitted, no grooming, boarding or other commercial service would be allowed and the applicant will have to establish that the hobby kennel would not have an adverse effect on the surrounding neighborhood.
Reference:t-g
The Lucky Day Campaign to Celebrate 'Be Kind to Animals Week’ May 6-12
RISMEDIA, May 3, 2007-As Mahatma Gandhi once said, "A nation can be judged by how it treats its animals." In honor of this year's "Be Kind to Animals Week," The Pet Realty NetworkTM supports Pet Shelters and Humane Societies across the country with the new campaign, THE LUCKY DAY - that special day when an orphaned pet finally finds their new home.
The American Humane Association created Be Kind to Animals Week in 1915 to celebrate the unique bond between humans and animals. Every year, animal shelters throughout the country hold special events during this special week to raise awareness about Being Kind to Animals, and to teach people about the amazing role animals play in our lives. Be Kind to Animals Week is a great time to promote the nation's animal welfare organizations and to encourage everyone to get involved to make a difference for animals.
"Be Kind to Animals Week represents a worthwhile tradition of celebrating and respecting animals," says Amanda Jacobs of The Pet Realty NetworkTM. "This week is a time to reflect on the happiness these companions give us."
According the National Council of Pet Population, moving is the #1 cited reason dogs are relinquished to shelters, and the #3 reason cats are surrendered.
www.PetRealtyNetwork.com, launched in January 2007, serves both Pet Owners and Real Estate Professionals of the community in one convenient place and includes a helpful list of Pet Friendly Real Estate Agents, Properties, and will soon include Pet Friendly Rentals. By connecting Pet Friendly People with a Network of Pet Friendly Real Estate Professionals, The Pet Realty NetworkTM and THE LUCKY DAY campaign can help reduce the number of pets surrendered to pet shelters due to residential pet restrictions or relocation issues, educate and inform pet owners about how using a Pet Friendly Real Estate Professional can lead to healthier and happier pets, and promote the importance of adoptions from Pet Shelters and Humane Societies.
The Pet Realty NetworkTM thanks the Real Estate Professionals, Pet Shelters, and Pet Owners making a difference in the lives of pets everywhere, and recognizes the Humane Societies of THE LUCKY DAY campaign that embodies kindness through action and joins us in celebrating this year's Be Kind to Animals Week.
For more information, please visit www.PetRealtyNetwork.com or www.TheLuckyDay.com or e-mail info@petrealtynetwork.com.
Reference:rismedia
The American Humane Association created Be Kind to Animals Week in 1915 to celebrate the unique bond between humans and animals. Every year, animal shelters throughout the country hold special events during this special week to raise awareness about Being Kind to Animals, and to teach people about the amazing role animals play in our lives. Be Kind to Animals Week is a great time to promote the nation's animal welfare organizations and to encourage everyone to get involved to make a difference for animals.
"Be Kind to Animals Week represents a worthwhile tradition of celebrating and respecting animals," says Amanda Jacobs of The Pet Realty NetworkTM. "This week is a time to reflect on the happiness these companions give us."
According the National Council of Pet Population, moving is the #1 cited reason dogs are relinquished to shelters, and the #3 reason cats are surrendered.
www.PetRealtyNetwork.com, launched in January 2007, serves both Pet Owners and Real Estate Professionals of the community in one convenient place and includes a helpful list of Pet Friendly Real Estate Agents, Properties, and will soon include Pet Friendly Rentals. By connecting Pet Friendly People with a Network of Pet Friendly Real Estate Professionals, The Pet Realty NetworkTM and THE LUCKY DAY campaign can help reduce the number of pets surrendered to pet shelters due to residential pet restrictions or relocation issues, educate and inform pet owners about how using a Pet Friendly Real Estate Professional can lead to healthier and happier pets, and promote the importance of adoptions from Pet Shelters and Humane Societies.
The Pet Realty NetworkTM thanks the Real Estate Professionals, Pet Shelters, and Pet Owners making a difference in the lives of pets everywhere, and recognizes the Humane Societies of THE LUCKY DAY campaign that embodies kindness through action and joins us in celebrating this year's Be Kind to Animals Week.
For more information, please visit www.PetRealtyNetwork.com or www.TheLuckyDay.com or e-mail info@petrealtynetwork.com.
Reference:rismedia
Poaching animals more lucrative than drugs
POACHING and trafficking in wild animals such as monkeys and parrots is reaching critical proportions in Brazil, a non-profit group has said.
The trade is so attractive that it is even prompting drug traffickers to turn their attention to animals.
Police confiscated more than 50,000 captured animals in one part of Brazil's Atlantic rain forest in 2005, up from 15,000 five years earlier, according to a report by the National Network Against Wild Animal Trade, or Renctas.
"Sadly the situation is still critical," Dener Giovanini, founder of Renctas, told a congressional environment committee.
Mr Renctas estimates Brazil accounts for about 10 percent of the world's illegal trade in wild animals.
Nearly half the animals - mostly parrots and other birds - go to Europe and the United States.
Brazil's endangered blue Hyacinth Macaw can sell for $25,000, it said.
Big profits and lax laws are attracting criminals from other trades, said committee chairman Jose Sarney Filho.
"Some drug traffickers are moving to animal trafficking because the penalties are less stiff," Mr Sarney said.
The global trade in poached animals and their hides, tusks and bones is worth $10 billion to $20 billion a year, ranking third after illegal arms and drugs trafficking, the group said.
Reference:news
The trade is so attractive that it is even prompting drug traffickers to turn their attention to animals.
Police confiscated more than 50,000 captured animals in one part of Brazil's Atlantic rain forest in 2005, up from 15,000 five years earlier, according to a report by the National Network Against Wild Animal Trade, or Renctas.
"Sadly the situation is still critical," Dener Giovanini, founder of Renctas, told a congressional environment committee.
Mr Renctas estimates Brazil accounts for about 10 percent of the world's illegal trade in wild animals.
Nearly half the animals - mostly parrots and other birds - go to Europe and the United States.
Brazil's endangered blue Hyacinth Macaw can sell for $25,000, it said.
Big profits and lax laws are attracting criminals from other trades, said committee chairman Jose Sarney Filho.
"Some drug traffickers are moving to animal trafficking because the penalties are less stiff," Mr Sarney said.
The global trade in poached animals and their hides, tusks and bones is worth $10 billion to $20 billion a year, ranking third after illegal arms and drugs trafficking, the group said.
Reference:news
Animals often pay price when they become exotic pets
Samantha M. Novick
Cronkite News Service
The animals at Southwest Wildlife's sanctuary and rehabilitation center in Scottsdale seem content enough in their spacious enclosures, sleeping on tree branches, sunning themselves on large rocks or digging in the mud.
A closer look, however, reveals painful pasts that led many of the animals here after they were kept as pets.
A mountain lion walks gingerly because its claws have been removed. Some bobcats are missing claws and canine teeth. Another mountain lion, shorter than normal, suffered metabolic bone disease, causing three of his legs to break, because it was fed so poorly.
"It's sad because all of it is avoidable," said Linda Searles, director of the center. "They should have never lost their freedom."
These animals, which were bred to become pets or plucked from the wild, eventually became too much for their owners or were confiscated. State law prohibits keeping exotic animals without a permit, but that hasn't prevented people from owning cobras in Kingman, crocodiles in Tucson and piranhas in a Valley aquarium.
"We get calls every week from people wanting to give up everything from lions to bobcats," Searles said.
Many of the former pets that arrive at her facility are sick, injured or will sit and sway back and forth because they had been kept in a cage that was too small, Searles said. Others will bite themselves or chew on their limbs out of boredom.
"These animals are very intelligent and sometimes if they aren't given enough stimulation it leads to self-mutilation or other factors," Searles said.
Strong state laws in Arizona have kept ownership of exotic pets down, but lately the Internet has played a role in easing trade across borders, said Nicole Paquette, a researcher at the California-based Animal Protection Institute.
"Not only has it helped raised the attraction of keeping an exotic pet, but it has made it easier to learn where you can find these animals," Paquette said.
Four years ago, a Phoenix woman bought a baby mountain lion cub over the Internet to keep as a pet in her home. It was only when neighbors spotted her taking the cat for a walk that authorities were alerted and the animal was sent to Southwest Wildlife.
In Arizona, the majority of animals that are confiscated from pet owners are reptiles, followed by small mammals such as raccoons and skunks, said Jay Cook, a law enforcement supervisor for the Arizona Department of Game and Fish.
"I wouldn't say that it's a huge amount, but it is a problem," Cook said. "It does happen, and a lot goes on that we don't even know about."
Many of the state's confiscated reptiles end up at the Phoenix Herpetological Society, a sanctuary built in Daniel Marchand's Scottsdale backyard. It currently houses more than 40 alligators, crocodiles and caimans and several types of venomous snakes, Gila monsters, monitors, snapping turtles and lizards.
"There's no limit as to what people will keep as pets," Marchand said.
He said every year the society takes in approximately 125 non-native, venomous snakes. It also takes in as many as three alligators a month, he said.
"There are plenty of people out there who feel they are above the law and feel they have the right to have these things," Marchand said. "We already have 13 species of rattlesnakes that live here. We don't need any more venomous snakes on the loose."
Many of these reptiles are destined for a life in captivity because they either are not native to the U.S. or have become too used to humans to be released, Marchand said.
Former pets that cannot return to the wild have placed a strain on sanctuaries with limited space and funding, said Vernon Weir, director of the Las Vegas-based American Sanctuary Association.
"Everyone is aware that there are too many dogs and cats in shelters," Weir said. "But the same problem exists with other species. In many states it's still legal to own a tiger, a bear, even an alligator. And they are abandoned all the time."
Nick Derene, general curator for the Heritage Park Zoological Sanctuary in Prescott, said the biggest challenge for sanctuaries is finding places for animals that can't go back into the wild.
A third of the animals at Derene's zoo come from the pet trade, including a tiger named Samson who is so used to people he'll rub on his fence like a cat when a keeper approaches.
"Most nonprofits are only scraping by on donations," Derene said. "There are nowhere near enough places for them to go."
---
- Southwest Wildlife: www.southwestwildlife.org
- Phoenix Herpetological Society: www.phoenixherp.com
- Heritage Park Zoological Sanctuary: www.heritageparkzoo.org
- Arizona Game and Fish Department: www.azgfd.gov
- American Sanctuary Association: www.asaanimalsanctuaries.org
- Animal Protection Institute: www.api4animals.org
Reference:azcentral
Cronkite News Service
The animals at Southwest Wildlife's sanctuary and rehabilitation center in Scottsdale seem content enough in their spacious enclosures, sleeping on tree branches, sunning themselves on large rocks or digging in the mud.
A closer look, however, reveals painful pasts that led many of the animals here after they were kept as pets.
A mountain lion walks gingerly because its claws have been removed. Some bobcats are missing claws and canine teeth. Another mountain lion, shorter than normal, suffered metabolic bone disease, causing three of his legs to break, because it was fed so poorly.
"It's sad because all of it is avoidable," said Linda Searles, director of the center. "They should have never lost their freedom."
These animals, which were bred to become pets or plucked from the wild, eventually became too much for their owners or were confiscated. State law prohibits keeping exotic animals without a permit, but that hasn't prevented people from owning cobras in Kingman, crocodiles in Tucson and piranhas in a Valley aquarium.
"We get calls every week from people wanting to give up everything from lions to bobcats," Searles said.
Many of the former pets that arrive at her facility are sick, injured or will sit and sway back and forth because they had been kept in a cage that was too small, Searles said. Others will bite themselves or chew on their limbs out of boredom.
"These animals are very intelligent and sometimes if they aren't given enough stimulation it leads to self-mutilation or other factors," Searles said.
Strong state laws in Arizona have kept ownership of exotic pets down, but lately the Internet has played a role in easing trade across borders, said Nicole Paquette, a researcher at the California-based Animal Protection Institute.
"Not only has it helped raised the attraction of keeping an exotic pet, but it has made it easier to learn where you can find these animals," Paquette said.
Four years ago, a Phoenix woman bought a baby mountain lion cub over the Internet to keep as a pet in her home. It was only when neighbors spotted her taking the cat for a walk that authorities were alerted and the animal was sent to Southwest Wildlife.
In Arizona, the majority of animals that are confiscated from pet owners are reptiles, followed by small mammals such as raccoons and skunks, said Jay Cook, a law enforcement supervisor for the Arizona Department of Game and Fish.
"I wouldn't say that it's a huge amount, but it is a problem," Cook said. "It does happen, and a lot goes on that we don't even know about."
Many of the state's confiscated reptiles end up at the Phoenix Herpetological Society, a sanctuary built in Daniel Marchand's Scottsdale backyard. It currently houses more than 40 alligators, crocodiles and caimans and several types of venomous snakes, Gila monsters, monitors, snapping turtles and lizards.
"There's no limit as to what people will keep as pets," Marchand said.
He said every year the society takes in approximately 125 non-native, venomous snakes. It also takes in as many as three alligators a month, he said.
"There are plenty of people out there who feel they are above the law and feel they have the right to have these things," Marchand said. "We already have 13 species of rattlesnakes that live here. We don't need any more venomous snakes on the loose."
Many of these reptiles are destined for a life in captivity because they either are not native to the U.S. or have become too used to humans to be released, Marchand said.
Former pets that cannot return to the wild have placed a strain on sanctuaries with limited space and funding, said Vernon Weir, director of the Las Vegas-based American Sanctuary Association.
"Everyone is aware that there are too many dogs and cats in shelters," Weir said. "But the same problem exists with other species. In many states it's still legal to own a tiger, a bear, even an alligator. And they are abandoned all the time."
Nick Derene, general curator for the Heritage Park Zoological Sanctuary in Prescott, said the biggest challenge for sanctuaries is finding places for animals that can't go back into the wild.
A third of the animals at Derene's zoo come from the pet trade, including a tiger named Samson who is so used to people he'll rub on his fence like a cat when a keeper approaches.
"Most nonprofits are only scraping by on donations," Derene said. "There are nowhere near enough places for them to go."
---
- Southwest Wildlife: www.southwestwildlife.org
- Phoenix Herpetological Society: www.phoenixherp.com
- Heritage Park Zoological Sanctuary: www.heritageparkzoo.org
- Arizona Game and Fish Department: www.azgfd.gov
- American Sanctuary Association: www.asaanimalsanctuaries.org
- Animal Protection Institute: www.api4animals.org
Reference:azcentral
Wednesday, May 02, 2007
Chemical might have killed thousands of pets
By Chris Emery and Jonathan D. Rockoff
sun reporters
Federal health officials announced yesterday that the number of pets sickened or killed by contaminated pet food could be far bigger than previously reported, and they now believe that an industrial chemical operating in conjunction with related compounds is responsible for the deaths of as many as 1,950 cats and 2,200 dogs.
Contaminated products might have entered the human food supply, health officials said, because more than 3 million chickens at farms in Indiana could have eaten feed containing the chemical melamine and been processed. But the officials said the threat to people is extremely low.
"Those chickens are a tiny fraction of the more than 9 billion farmed for processing or breeding each year," said Kenneth Petersen, assistant administrator for field operations at the Agriculture Department's Food Safety and Inspection Service. "It's a small part of the pet food, and then it's a small part of the feed, and indications are it was fed for a very brief period of time."
The evidence of more widespread melamine contamination follows the discovery of the chemical in certain dog and cat food products last month. The Food and Drug Administration said it has received 17,000 reports of cats and dogs that became ill or died.
Investigators have suspected that melamine was to blame but were unsure how. They have been hindered by a shortage of research examining its effects. A few studies have shown that rats fed huge amounts of the substance developed bladder stones and later cancer.
FDA officials said they suspect that melamine combined with related chemicals caused kidney problems and deaths in cats and dogs. One of the related chemicals is cyanuric acid, which is commonly used to clean pools.
The melamine - a byproduct of coal - has been traced to protein products imported from China and then added to the pet foods and animal feeds.
There have been no reports of illness among farm animals that ate adulterated feed, and there is little threat to humans, officials said.
"We still have no evidence of harm to humans," said David W.K. Acheson, the FDA's new assistant commissioner for food protection.
However, Mickey Parish, a professor of nutrition and food science at the University of Maryland's College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, said the implications for human food are unclear.
"It's what we don't know that's the issue," Parish said. "Melamine is a non-food grade substance so we don't know much about its effect on the human body."
Officials said they have confirmed 16 pet deaths, but the FDA has found 8,000 of the reports of pet food poisoning that it has received - including about 4,000 deaths - credible enough to enter into a database for further examination.
Officials announced Monday that melamine and related compounds had been found in wheat gluten used in chicken feed on farms in Indiana.
A few days earlier, officials announced that contaminated feed might have been fed to as many as 6,000 hogs. The feed is thought to have been used in California, Kansas, New York, North Carolina, South Carolina and Utah.
Most of the hogs have been quarantined, but some might have gone to slaughter, federal officials said.
Recent news reports suggested that melamine often makes its way into the food of Chinese farm animals, and federal investigators think it has been added to wheat gluten and rice protein products shipped abroad from China.
It is unclear whether the meat and milk from farm animals that ingest melamine would contain the substance, experts said.
Household pets such as cats and dogs often eat a simple diet consisting of a single pet food, but the feed given to farm animals tends to contain a wider array of ingredients, which probably reduces the concentration of melamine and the potential risk to humans.
One explanation for melamine's harmful effects is that it might crystallize when combined with cyanuric acid. Such crystals could lead to kidney failure.
"It sounds as though it's filtered in the kidneys," said Dr. Robert S. Lawrence, a professor at Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health. "Crystals are forming and blocking the kidneys."
Reference:baltimoresun
sun reporters
Federal health officials announced yesterday that the number of pets sickened or killed by contaminated pet food could be far bigger than previously reported, and they now believe that an industrial chemical operating in conjunction with related compounds is responsible for the deaths of as many as 1,950 cats and 2,200 dogs.
Contaminated products might have entered the human food supply, health officials said, because more than 3 million chickens at farms in Indiana could have eaten feed containing the chemical melamine and been processed. But the officials said the threat to people is extremely low.
"Those chickens are a tiny fraction of the more than 9 billion farmed for processing or breeding each year," said Kenneth Petersen, assistant administrator for field operations at the Agriculture Department's Food Safety and Inspection Service. "It's a small part of the pet food, and then it's a small part of the feed, and indications are it was fed for a very brief period of time."
The evidence of more widespread melamine contamination follows the discovery of the chemical in certain dog and cat food products last month. The Food and Drug Administration said it has received 17,000 reports of cats and dogs that became ill or died.
Investigators have suspected that melamine was to blame but were unsure how. They have been hindered by a shortage of research examining its effects. A few studies have shown that rats fed huge amounts of the substance developed bladder stones and later cancer.
FDA officials said they suspect that melamine combined with related chemicals caused kidney problems and deaths in cats and dogs. One of the related chemicals is cyanuric acid, which is commonly used to clean pools.
The melamine - a byproduct of coal - has been traced to protein products imported from China and then added to the pet foods and animal feeds.
There have been no reports of illness among farm animals that ate adulterated feed, and there is little threat to humans, officials said.
"We still have no evidence of harm to humans," said David W.K. Acheson, the FDA's new assistant commissioner for food protection.
However, Mickey Parish, a professor of nutrition and food science at the University of Maryland's College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, said the implications for human food are unclear.
"It's what we don't know that's the issue," Parish said. "Melamine is a non-food grade substance so we don't know much about its effect on the human body."
Officials said they have confirmed 16 pet deaths, but the FDA has found 8,000 of the reports of pet food poisoning that it has received - including about 4,000 deaths - credible enough to enter into a database for further examination.
Officials announced Monday that melamine and related compounds had been found in wheat gluten used in chicken feed on farms in Indiana.
A few days earlier, officials announced that contaminated feed might have been fed to as many as 6,000 hogs. The feed is thought to have been used in California, Kansas, New York, North Carolina, South Carolina and Utah.
Most of the hogs have been quarantined, but some might have gone to slaughter, federal officials said.
Recent news reports suggested that melamine often makes its way into the food of Chinese farm animals, and federal investigators think it has been added to wheat gluten and rice protein products shipped abroad from China.
It is unclear whether the meat and milk from farm animals that ingest melamine would contain the substance, experts said.
Household pets such as cats and dogs often eat a simple diet consisting of a single pet food, but the feed given to farm animals tends to contain a wider array of ingredients, which probably reduces the concentration of melamine and the potential risk to humans.
One explanation for melamine's harmful effects is that it might crystallize when combined with cyanuric acid. Such crystals could lead to kidney failure.
"It sounds as though it's filtered in the kidneys," said Dr. Robert S. Lawrence, a professor at Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health. "Crystals are forming and blocking the kidneys."
Reference:baltimoresun
Terrier dies trying to protect kids from pitbulls
By RICHARD WOODD and JAYNE HULBERT - Taranaki Daily News
A feisty Jack Russell terrier has given his life to save five children from a mauling by two savage pitbulls.
NIC GIBSON/Taranaki Daily News
OUR SAVIOUR: Manaia youngster Darryl Wilson, 4, holds a photo of George the Jack Russell. Nine-year-old George was killed by two pitbulls which were threatening Darryl and other children in the town on Sunday. Also pictured are George's owner Alan Gay (69), Richard Rosewarne, Christian Rosewarne, 8, and Kelly Rosewarne, 10. Their two-year-old sister, who also witnessed the attack, did not want to be in the photo.
The tiny dog leapt to the defence of the children - aged between 4 and 11 - when the two rogue pitbulls threatened them on the way to a dairy in Manaia on Sunday.
The attack was the final straw for the South Taranaki District Council, which says it intends hunting down all dangerous and unregistered dogs and neuter them.
Richard Rosewarne (11), the oldest of the children, said the pitbulls came up behind them and were going for his brother Darryl Wilson (4).
"George tried to protect us by barking and rushing at them, but they started to bite him - one on the head and the other on the back.
"We ran off crying and some people saw what was happening and rescued George."
But nine-year-old George was so badly ripped apart he had to be put down.
Vet Steven Hopkinson, of the South Taranaki Animal Health Services Ltd, said the injuries were the worst he had seen.
George's owner Alan Gay (69), says his dog died a hero.
"These two pitbulls rushed up and were going for the little boy. George went for them, it's what he would do. He didn't stand a chance, but I reckon he saved that boy from being chewed up.
"These pitbulls should be banned. They're killers and it comes from them being bred for fighting."
Mr Gay lives alone and George had been his faithful companion for about seven years. He inherited George as a young dog after his former neighbours moved away.
The dogs disappeared after the attack, but yesterday dog rangers removed two pitbulls from a Manaia property.
South Taranaki environment services manager Graham Young says they are fairly certain the dogs were involved in Sunday's attack.
The dogs are in the pound and the council will be seeking the animals' destruction.
"Council will also be looking at a prosecution of the owners," Mr Young said.
In the past two months, four separate incidents have been reported in Manaia of pitbulls attacking other dogs and menacing children.
However, Mr Young said it was unknown whether the two impounded pitbulls were responsible for any of the other attacks.
But the attacks have prompted the council to introduce desexing of aggressive dogs. The council says it is empowered to take this action by the Dog Control Act.
"When any of these dogs come to our notice through registration or for reported menacing or any other reason, we will require desexing unless the owner can convince us to not to. Each case will be treated on its merits," Mr Young says.
The council will have a "zero tolerance" policy towards all unregistered, roaming and menacing dogs.
Mr Young said council officers were doing a property to property search throughout Manaia in order to locate such dogs and their owners, with the intention to destroy the dogs.
No warnings would be given to owners of unregistered dogs, he said.
The council will make a leaflet drop to Manaia's 400 houses this weekend, warning people to be on the lookout for menacing dogs and report sightings to an 0800 number.
"They have checked out and eliminated any pitbulls registered in Manaia and will be showing zero tolerance towards any unregistered, roaming and menacing dogs," Mr Young said. "The dogs will be taken to the pound and owners will be able to retrieve them only after paying $300 infringement fees. Owners of roaming dogs will have to pay $200 infringement fees."
Reference:Stuff
A feisty Jack Russell terrier has given his life to save five children from a mauling by two savage pitbulls.
NIC GIBSON/Taranaki Daily News
OUR SAVIOUR: Manaia youngster Darryl Wilson, 4, holds a photo of George the Jack Russell. Nine-year-old George was killed by two pitbulls which were threatening Darryl and other children in the town on Sunday. Also pictured are George's owner Alan Gay (69), Richard Rosewarne, Christian Rosewarne, 8, and Kelly Rosewarne, 10. Their two-year-old sister, who also witnessed the attack, did not want to be in the photo.
The tiny dog leapt to the defence of the children - aged between 4 and 11 - when the two rogue pitbulls threatened them on the way to a dairy in Manaia on Sunday.
The attack was the final straw for the South Taranaki District Council, which says it intends hunting down all dangerous and unregistered dogs and neuter them.
Richard Rosewarne (11), the oldest of the children, said the pitbulls came up behind them and were going for his brother Darryl Wilson (4).
"George tried to protect us by barking and rushing at them, but they started to bite him - one on the head and the other on the back.
"We ran off crying and some people saw what was happening and rescued George."
But nine-year-old George was so badly ripped apart he had to be put down.
Vet Steven Hopkinson, of the South Taranaki Animal Health Services Ltd, said the injuries were the worst he had seen.
George's owner Alan Gay (69), says his dog died a hero.
"These two pitbulls rushed up and were going for the little boy. George went for them, it's what he would do. He didn't stand a chance, but I reckon he saved that boy from being chewed up.
"These pitbulls should be banned. They're killers and it comes from them being bred for fighting."
Mr Gay lives alone and George had been his faithful companion for about seven years. He inherited George as a young dog after his former neighbours moved away.
The dogs disappeared after the attack, but yesterday dog rangers removed two pitbulls from a Manaia property.
South Taranaki environment services manager Graham Young says they are fairly certain the dogs were involved in Sunday's attack.
The dogs are in the pound and the council will be seeking the animals' destruction.
"Council will also be looking at a prosecution of the owners," Mr Young said.
In the past two months, four separate incidents have been reported in Manaia of pitbulls attacking other dogs and menacing children.
However, Mr Young said it was unknown whether the two impounded pitbulls were responsible for any of the other attacks.
But the attacks have prompted the council to introduce desexing of aggressive dogs. The council says it is empowered to take this action by the Dog Control Act.
"When any of these dogs come to our notice through registration or for reported menacing or any other reason, we will require desexing unless the owner can convince us to not to. Each case will be treated on its merits," Mr Young says.
The council will have a "zero tolerance" policy towards all unregistered, roaming and menacing dogs.
Mr Young said council officers were doing a property to property search throughout Manaia in order to locate such dogs and their owners, with the intention to destroy the dogs.
No warnings would be given to owners of unregistered dogs, he said.
The council will make a leaflet drop to Manaia's 400 houses this weekend, warning people to be on the lookout for menacing dogs and report sightings to an 0800 number.
"They have checked out and eliminated any pitbulls registered in Manaia and will be showing zero tolerance towards any unregistered, roaming and menacing dogs," Mr Young said. "The dogs will be taken to the pound and owners will be able to retrieve them only after paying $300 infringement fees. Owners of roaming dogs will have to pay $200 infringement fees."
Reference:Stuff
Obesity pill developed for dogs
OVERWEIGHT dogs may soon get a scientific leg-up to help shed unwanted puppy fat after an Australian company's animal weight-loss drug passed initial tests.
Perth-based Stirling Products Ltd's R-salbutamol drug was trialled on 15 beagles in the US, each losing 3 per cent weight loss a week, the company said.
Stirling chief executive and managing director Calvin London said it was early days in the drug's development.
"Phase one established an initial dose range that was considered safe to administer to dogs without any clinical side-effects and the second phase tested both high and low dose options in reducing the weight of overweight dogs," said Dr London.
"While it is early days, these results are extremely encouraging and we know we can enhance the effectiveness of R-salbutamol even further with revised formulations in studies."
The company will now tweak the formulation before more extensive trials.
If the second phase of testing is successful, the company will seek approval from the US Food and Drug Administration - a stage Dr London hoped to reach in about two years.
Should R-salbutamol make it to the supermarket shelves, the spoils won't be small (dog) biscuits.
About 35 per cent of US dogs and cats are considered to be overweight or obese, a statistic mirrored in Australia and Europe, Stirling said.
The market for anti-obesity drugs for pets is estimated to be worth more than $US200 million ($242.17 million) in the US alone.
Reference:Daily Telegraph, Australia
Perth-based Stirling Products Ltd's R-salbutamol drug was trialled on 15 beagles in the US, each losing 3 per cent weight loss a week, the company said.
Stirling chief executive and managing director Calvin London said it was early days in the drug's development.
"Phase one established an initial dose range that was considered safe to administer to dogs without any clinical side-effects and the second phase tested both high and low dose options in reducing the weight of overweight dogs," said Dr London.
"While it is early days, these results are extremely encouraging and we know we can enhance the effectiveness of R-salbutamol even further with revised formulations in studies."
The company will now tweak the formulation before more extensive trials.
If the second phase of testing is successful, the company will seek approval from the US Food and Drug Administration - a stage Dr London hoped to reach in about two years.
Should R-salbutamol make it to the supermarket shelves, the spoils won't be small (dog) biscuits.
About 35 per cent of US dogs and cats are considered to be overweight or obese, a statistic mirrored in Australia and Europe, Stirling said.
The market for anti-obesity drugs for pets is estimated to be worth more than $US200 million ($242.17 million) in the US alone.
Reference:Daily Telegraph, Australia
Global Survey of Lizards Reveals Greater Abundance of Animals on Islands Than on Mainland Ecosystems
A comprehensive survey of lizards on islands around the world has confirmed what island biologists and seafaring explorers have long observed: Animals on islands are much more abundant than their counterparts on the mainland.
Besides confirming that longstanding observation, the study signals an alarm for island populations in a rapidly warming world. It suggests that climate change may have devastating consequences for lizards and other animals that inhabit islands because their ecosystems are much more sensitive than those on the mainland to change.
Details of the study conducted by biologists at the University of California, San Diego will appear in a paper slated for publication in the June issue of the journal Ecology Letters, available online in May.
“We found that island populations are less resistant to biological invasions, which will likely increase dramatically with changing climate,” says Walter Jetz, an assistant professor of biological sciences at UCSD and a co-author of the study.
“Climate change will drive animals to move to new places,” says Lauren Buckley, a postdoctoral fellow at the Santa Fe Institute who is a visiting scholar at UCSD and the other co-author of the study. “Our research suggests that those animals that move to islands can strongly affect the sensitive animal communities on islands.”
In addition to their increased sensitivity to biological invasions, populations on islands are more vulnerable than those on the mainland to sea level rise and increased storm activity, which are expected by many scientists to become worse as a result of global warming.
Jetz and Buckley gathered 643 estimates of lizard abundance from around the world for their survey, the first extensive global study of island densities for any animal group. Analyzing these estimates, they determined that lizards were consistently more than ten times more abundant on islands than on the mainland.
Previous research conducted by Ted Case at UCSD and others on small groups of islands had found that islands’ limited areas and isolation can reduce predation and competition pressures. As a result, island animals were able to reach exceptionally high densities.
In their study, Jetz and Buckley confirmed that reduced numbers of predators and competitors accompany high lizard densities on islands across the world. The two biologists concluded that an average acre of mainland contains 52 lizards while an island acre contains 777 lizards. This difference in density persisted when the scientists controlled for location and environmental conditions.
“The ecology of islands is particularly important because, while the world’s more than 100,000 islands constitute only 7 percent of the global land surface, they contain many of the earth’s species with numerous species restricted to single islands,” says Buckley. “500 million people depend on island ecosystems for their food and livelihoods.”
The study suggests that islands are particularly sensitive to the loss and gain of species. Species introductions have had dramatic consequences for islands. Introduced mongooses have devastated island populations of lizards and introduced snakes have caused the loss of birds and lizards on islands.
“Cases of species introductions wreaking havoc on islands are likely to become more common as the islands face increasing pressures from population growth, tourism, development, and climate change,” says Jetz. “The consequences of island vulnerability have already been observed as island species account for half of known animal extinctions and a full 90 percent of known bird extinctions in the last 400 years. Our study suggests that islands will continue to be vulnerable worldwide.”
“Many people, myself included, enjoy visiting islands for their spectacular wildlife,” adds Buckley. “Our research suggests that we must be particularly careful to limit the movement of animals between islands if islands are to remain special places to visit.”
Source: University of California, San Diego
Besides confirming that longstanding observation, the study signals an alarm for island populations in a rapidly warming world. It suggests that climate change may have devastating consequences for lizards and other animals that inhabit islands because their ecosystems are much more sensitive than those on the mainland to change.
Details of the study conducted by biologists at the University of California, San Diego will appear in a paper slated for publication in the June issue of the journal Ecology Letters, available online in May.
“We found that island populations are less resistant to biological invasions, which will likely increase dramatically with changing climate,” says Walter Jetz, an assistant professor of biological sciences at UCSD and a co-author of the study.
“Climate change will drive animals to move to new places,” says Lauren Buckley, a postdoctoral fellow at the Santa Fe Institute who is a visiting scholar at UCSD and the other co-author of the study. “Our research suggests that those animals that move to islands can strongly affect the sensitive animal communities on islands.”
In addition to their increased sensitivity to biological invasions, populations on islands are more vulnerable than those on the mainland to sea level rise and increased storm activity, which are expected by many scientists to become worse as a result of global warming.
Jetz and Buckley gathered 643 estimates of lizard abundance from around the world for their survey, the first extensive global study of island densities for any animal group. Analyzing these estimates, they determined that lizards were consistently more than ten times more abundant on islands than on the mainland.
Previous research conducted by Ted Case at UCSD and others on small groups of islands had found that islands’ limited areas and isolation can reduce predation and competition pressures. As a result, island animals were able to reach exceptionally high densities.
In their study, Jetz and Buckley confirmed that reduced numbers of predators and competitors accompany high lizard densities on islands across the world. The two biologists concluded that an average acre of mainland contains 52 lizards while an island acre contains 777 lizards. This difference in density persisted when the scientists controlled for location and environmental conditions.
“The ecology of islands is particularly important because, while the world’s more than 100,000 islands constitute only 7 percent of the global land surface, they contain many of the earth’s species with numerous species restricted to single islands,” says Buckley. “500 million people depend on island ecosystems for their food and livelihoods.”
The study suggests that islands are particularly sensitive to the loss and gain of species. Species introductions have had dramatic consequences for islands. Introduced mongooses have devastated island populations of lizards and introduced snakes have caused the loss of birds and lizards on islands.
“Cases of species introductions wreaking havoc on islands are likely to become more common as the islands face increasing pressures from population growth, tourism, development, and climate change,” says Jetz. “The consequences of island vulnerability have already been observed as island species account for half of known animal extinctions and a full 90 percent of known bird extinctions in the last 400 years. Our study suggests that islands will continue to be vulnerable worldwide.”
“Many people, myself included, enjoy visiting islands for their spectacular wildlife,” adds Buckley. “Our research suggests that we must be particularly careful to limit the movement of animals between islands if islands are to remain special places to visit.”
Source: University of California, San Diego
Circuses with exotic animals to be banned
Jordan World Circus allowed one last show this summer.
by MARK NIELSEN
Citizen staff
The days of circuses featuring exotic animals performing in Prince George are numbered.
City council voted 6-1 Monday night to go ahead with a bylaw banning such shows from city limits in answer to a campaign spearheaded by local B.C. Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals representative Kathi Travers.
Travers, who also writes a weekly animals column for the Citizen, contends the animals are forced to do things they wouldn't normally do in the wild.
"Taking an animal and asking a tiger to jump through a fiery hoop, what's natural about that? It's almost like the olden days when Ringling used to have the sideshows where they had people disabilities and we'd go and say that's entertainment.," she said in an interview Tuesday.
"How can we say an animal being degraded is entertaining?"
Travers, who used to inspect zoos and circuses before she moved to Prince George also said circuses treat their animals poorly.
Travers said the move means Prince George has joined the ranks of 20 other B.C. communities who've banned the shows.
"It shows that we're just as progressive as they are," she said.
Pending final passage of the bylaw, the Jordan World Circus will be able to perform one last time this summer because it's already booked for CN Centre.
Only Coun. Glen Scott voted against the move.
Scott has said he's toured the backlots where circuses park their trailers and found no evidence of ill treatment.
"The cages were clean, they had a covered place to eat and lots of water and, as the trainer said, 'why would I abuse or neglect an animal that I make a living off of?'" Scott said. "To me it just seems we were following what other cities had done."
For many the circus is the only way many people in Prince George will ever get to see a live lion or tiger, said Scott. Travers maintained there are better ways to expose people to exotic animals, including the internet and trips to foreign countries.
"Let them go on a safari to India if they want to see a tiger," she said.
Reference:princegeorgecitizen
by MARK NIELSEN
Citizen staff
The days of circuses featuring exotic animals performing in Prince George are numbered.
City council voted 6-1 Monday night to go ahead with a bylaw banning such shows from city limits in answer to a campaign spearheaded by local B.C. Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals representative Kathi Travers.
Travers, who also writes a weekly animals column for the Citizen, contends the animals are forced to do things they wouldn't normally do in the wild.
"Taking an animal and asking a tiger to jump through a fiery hoop, what's natural about that? It's almost like the olden days when Ringling used to have the sideshows where they had people disabilities and we'd go and say that's entertainment.," she said in an interview Tuesday.
"How can we say an animal being degraded is entertaining?"
Travers, who used to inspect zoos and circuses before she moved to Prince George also said circuses treat their animals poorly.
Travers said the move means Prince George has joined the ranks of 20 other B.C. communities who've banned the shows.
"It shows that we're just as progressive as they are," she said.
Pending final passage of the bylaw, the Jordan World Circus will be able to perform one last time this summer because it's already booked for CN Centre.
Only Coun. Glen Scott voted against the move.
Scott has said he's toured the backlots where circuses park their trailers and found no evidence of ill treatment.
"The cages were clean, they had a covered place to eat and lots of water and, as the trainer said, 'why would I abuse or neglect an animal that I make a living off of?'" Scott said. "To me it just seems we were following what other cities had done."
For many the circus is the only way many people in Prince George will ever get to see a live lion or tiger, said Scott. Travers maintained there are better ways to expose people to exotic animals, including the internet and trips to foreign countries.
"Let them go on a safari to India if they want to see a tiger," she said.
Reference:princegeorgecitizen
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