Where In The World Is Paco?

A guy goes to Mexico for vacation, notices a dog hanging out on the beach, adopts him since the dog is homeless, and Delta lost the dog (named, Paco) on the way home? I normally like Delta but this is unacceptable.

Worse, they are offering $200?!

Full story, though there isn't much more to know, except that Delta lost someone's dog.

http://abcnews.go.com/Travel/dog-lost-delta-flight-airline-offers-200/story?id=10605443

 

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Quilt Raffle Benefitting Rolling Dog Ranch

One of Rolling Dog Ranch's amazing volunteers makes a quilt for them each year that gets raffled. The proceeds benefit the ranch and help augment the $60,000+ needed for vet bills each year.  This is only one picture; click the title above to be brought to Rolling Dog Ranch's site for the full (and wonderful display).

"For the fifth year in a row, quiltmaker Barbara Edwards from Seeley Lake, Montana, has produced another stunning quilt to raffle off as a benefit for the animals here. 100% of the proceeds will go directly to the ranch. Barbara and her husband Scott came by on Friday to show us her latest beautiful creation. Barbara's family named this quilt "Road Trip: Montana to New Hampshire 2010."

"Barbara's quilt raffle has brought in thousands of dollars each year for the animals, so this has turned into an amazing fundraiser for the ranch!"

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News Rounds Up

One lucky dog: Couple's Dominican honeymoon results in rescued pet
Full story:
http://www.greenbaypressgazette.com/article/20100508/GPG04/5080360


Girl Scout creates dog bite prevention program for Gold Award
Full story:
http://www2.dothaneagle.com/dea/lifestyles/local/article/girl_scout_creates_dog_bite_prevention_program_for_gold_award/151847/


Dog with own disability helps hospitalized kids

Full Story:
http://www.14wfie.com/Global/story.asp?S=12447318


Two people save dog from drowning, dog wrapped in chains
Full story:
http://www.winknews.com/Local-Florida/2010-05-05/Two-people-save-dog-from-drowning-dog-wrapped-in-chains#ixzz0nUChQFcB



Don't Give A Dog A Bone, FDA Says
Full story:
http://www.wpxi.com/irresistible/23224367/detail.html


Dog-sized dinosaur had thick, head-butting skullhttp://www.tehrantimes.com/index_View.asp?code=217965




Dog, gone: How poison killed his pet
Full Story:
http://www.readthehook.com/stories/2010/04/22/COVER-ratpoison-main-E.aspx


Learn about bone marrow transplants for dogs
Full Story:
http://pets.lohudblogs.com/2010/04/28/learn-about-bone-marrow-transplants-for-dogs/


First blood test unveiled for cancer detection in dogs
Full Story:
http://veterinarynews.dvm360.com/dvm/Veterinary+news/First-blood-test-unveiled-for-cancer-detection-in-/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/657623?contextCategoryId=378

Also: check this out for cancer-related questions concerning your dog:
http://www.oncopetdiagnostics.com/links.php

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Happy Mother's Day! Be a Mom to a Shelter Dog.

In the past two weeks, 54 of the 55 animals on the Urgent list at Dallas Animal Services have been rescued or adopted—only THEO is left, and he has until Monday, May 10, or he will be euthanized.

Theo is 1 year old and weighs 57 pounds. He’s a handsome fellow, a pit mix with a few red-orange freckles on his snow-white coat. Theo is friendly and good with people but doesn’t like other animals, so he needs a home where he’s the only pampered pet. Surely there’s a home out there for Theo! He’s neutered, has had all his shots, is heartworm negative and microchipped.

To adopt: 214-671-0249; teresa.cleek@dallascityhall.com; Dallas Animal Services, 1818 N. Westmoreland at I-30, in Dallas .

Rescue groups: 214-670-8298; mark.cooper@dallascityhall.com

Please spread the word. Thanks for your help.

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Remember Puppy Mill Moms

Laurel Babcock of Lower Hudson Blog (Paws N' Claws) does a nice post for Mother's Day. No reason to reinvent the wheel. She references the most excellent Best Friends Animal Society's efforts to alleviate the suffering of mother dogs in puppy mills.

Mother dogs live in cramped wire cages resembling rabbit hutches and often stacked on top of each other. They are bred repeatedly and churn out litter after litter until their bodies are exhausted and worn out to the point where they can’t produce any more puppies. They spend their entire lives without exercise, playtime or human affection, and often without medical care. When they are used up, they are killed or sold at auction.

This Mother’s Day, Best Friends Animal Society is spreading the word about these unseen, forgotten moms by offering “I’m Tired of Puppy Mills” bracelets. Edgy, trendy, and made from recycled materials, the bracelets cost only $10, and half of the proceeds will be donated to Best Friends’ Puppies Aren’t Products campaign.

Read her whole post here:
http://pets.lohudblogs.com/2010/05/05/remember-4-legged-moms-on-mothers-day/

DON'T buy a dog for your Mom on Mother's Day. Go to a shelter or a rescue and take one in that has paid her dues, and then some. Puppies at pet stores are 100% from puppy mills. There is no exception.

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(Happy Mother's Day to all you Moms out there!)

NYC - Long Island - New Jersey Adoption Events - May 2010

Liberty Humane Society / Friends of Cats at Liberty (FOCAL): Adoption Day at Petsmart

Saturday, May 8, 2010

11:30 a.m.–3:30 p.m.

Secaucus PetSmart

400 Mill Creek Drive

Secaucus, NJ

Adoptable cats and kittens (and a doggie or two) will be in front of the Pet Hotel or training area at the Secaucus PetSmart. Volunteers will be on hand to answer general questions about the shelter, adoptions, and volunteering. Join us and find a new adoptable friend!

For more information, contact Liberty Humane Society at (201) 547-4147 or lhs@libertyhumane.org, or visit the Liberty Humane Society website.

ARF-ARF (Allied Rockaway Foundation for Animal Recreation and Fitness)

and ASPCA / Bobbi and the Strays: It's My Bark Day
Saturday, May 15, 2010

8:00 a.m. – Spay/neuter clinic (arrive by 7:00a.m.)

11:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m. – Festivities and pet adoptions

Freeway Dog Park, Rockaway, Queens

ARF-ARF (Allied Rockaway Foundation for Animal Recreation and Fitness) is a community group of dog owners with an interest in serving the common needs and interests of the very large number of dogs and their loving companions who frequent the ARF-ARF Freeway Dog Park in Rockaway, Queens. Raffles, games, and a trick contest, plus lots of off-leash doggie fun! Low-cost/free spay/neuter clinic by the ASPCA. Bobbi & the Strays will be there with adorable dogs of many different sizes, ages, and breeds available for adoption. Come and bring a friend or two and give a homeless animal the chance for a better life.

For more information on the event, contact ARF-ARF at info@arfarfrockaway.org, or visit the ARF-ARF website. For more information on adoption, contact Bobbi & the Strays at (718) 326-6070 or events@bobbicares.org, or visit the Bobbi & the Strays website.

Castella De Borghese Vineyard:

Canine Cutchogue Classic All-Breed Dog Show Benefit

for North Fork Animal Welfare League

Saturday, May 15, 2010

10:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.

Castella De Borghese Vineyard, Route 48 (Sound Avenue)

Cutchogue, Long Island

The Cutchogue Canine Classic (CCC), where every dog is a star! This is the third year in a row that the generous people at Castello de Borghese Vineyards will be hosting this wonderful all-breed dog show and fair. The CCC is designed as a fundraising opportunity for not only the North Fork Animal Welfare League, but also the Guide Dog Foundation for the Blind, American's Vet Dogs, The Southold Town Shelter, Kent Animal Shelter, and SAVES, Inc. So please make time to come and visit our booth and all the other wonderful groups represented! We will have fabulous adoptable animals for you to hug. Bring you favorite canines and show them off. The event is free and open to the public; donations accepted.

For more information, contact Lynn Tonnessen at (631) 734-5362, or visit the Cutchogue Canine Classic website.

Liberty Humane Society / Friends of Cats at Liberty (FOCAL):

Adoption Day at Petsmart

Saturday, May 15, 2010

11:30 a.m.–3:30 p.m.

Secaucus PetSmart, 400 Mill Creek Drive

Secaucus, NJ

Adoptable cats and kittens (and a doggie or two) will be in front of the Pet Hotel or training area at the Secaucus PetSmart. Volunteers will be on hand to answer general questions about the shelter, adoptions, and volunteering. Join us and find a new adoptable friend!

For more information, contact Liberty Humane Society at (201) 547-4147 or lhs@libertyhumane.org, or visit the Liberty Humane Society website.

Liberty Humane Society / Friends of Cats at Liberty (FOCAL):

Adoption Day at Petsmart

Saturday, May 22, 2010

11:30 a.m.–3:30 p.m.

Secaucus PetSmart, 400 Mill Creek Drive

Secaucus, NJ

Adoptable cats and kittens (and a doggie or two) will be in front of the Pet Hotel or training area at the Secaucus PetSmart. Volunteers will be on hand to answer general questions about the shelter, adoptions, and volunteering. Join us and find a new adoptable friend!

For more information, contact Liberty Humane Society at (201) 547-4147 or lhs@libertyhumane.org, or visit the Liberty Humane Society website.

Liberty Humane Society / Friends of Cats at Liberty (FOCAL):

Adoption Day at Petsmart

Saturday, May 29, 2010

11:30 a.m.–3:30 p.m.

Secaucus PetSmart, 400 Mill Creek Drive

Secaucus, NJ

Adoptable cats and kittens (and a doggie or two) will be in front of the Pet Hotel or training area at the Secaucus PetSmart. Volunteers will be on hand to answer general questions about the shelter, adoptions, and volunteering. Join us and find a new adoptable friend!

For more information, contact Liberty Humane Society at (201) 547-4147 or lhs@libertyhumane.org, or visit the Liberty Humane Society website.

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Patty's Paws for Cause Luncheon - June 12th

I have gotten my last three dogs from Elmsford Animal Shelter. They take in all dogs, many that others would turn away. Yes, they have a lot of animals. Do they all get walked every day? Probably not. The same could be said of shelters one-fifth their size. With more volunteers that would be remedied. But I know the staff takes good care of them, and advocates tirelessly on their behalf.

They are having a luncheon to raise some money for much-needed improvements. I cannot be there but will be sending in my own donation, as with nearly all of the requests I make of all of you here.

To register for the luncheon, go here:
http://guest.cvent.com/EVENTS/Info/Summary.aspx?e=df359a2c-0193-4fbe-8cfb-f4c615dbbaa6

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A little Comic Relief

via College Humor dot com:

See more funny videos and funny pictures at CollegeHumor.

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Give a Little Money For a Transport TODAY

I got this off facebook. If you make even a small contribution, it matters to the lives of these 57 dogs that need transport. They have a ride; they need a little moola for the people donating their cars (gas and maybe some crates).

This is dog rescue, 57 little souls at a time. It matters.

**URGENT! My friend & fellow animal rescuer, Sharon Gold, is transporting 57 dogs from Kern County, CA to Oregon tomorrow. If we cannot raise the funds to transport them, they will be euthanized. Please consider donating even $5 so these dogs can LIVE! Please go to PayPal & donate to the email julianandella@yahoo.com. https://cms.paypal.com/us/cgi-bin/?cmd=_render-content&content_ID=marketing_us/send_money



[regarding donating directly to the vet as opposed to paypal]:

There's no vet. Sharon Gold has 3 or 4 caravans of cars leaving LA tomorrow & driving to Eugene, Oregon. There Noah's rescue will meet her & take them all to their place in Washington State. 850 miles each way. They need money for gas (at $3.00 a gallon now) & the pull fees so the money would go directly to Sharon. Sharon Gold is a HUGE animal rescuer. She rescues about 100 dogs a week from all over LA. She works with Eldad & Hope for Paws. I can vouch for her. I have been to her house & seen a lot of dogs being rehabilitated. She is wonderful. If people are uncomfortable donating to this than no worries. There is just no vet as everything is coming out of Sharon's pocket. I can 100% guarantee her credibility. [donating up through this] Sunday is not too late to donate as Sharon is using money from her own pocket for the costs that can't be covered by donations.

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If Your Organization Fosters or Adopts Out Pitbulls, Take A Look At The Animal Farm Foundation

Funded Programs:

THE PERFECT MATCH AWARD
The Perfect Match award celebrates the human-canine bond by awarding $500 to not-for-profit shelters or rescues that make the "perfect match" between an owner and an adopted shelter dog. Together, the honored pair will be winning hearts and opening minds, paving the way for other dogs and owners who are still searching for their Perfect Match. This award showcases an adoption that has benefitted the community in that it is an excellent example of the human-canine bond in action.

To qualify, the Perfect Match nominees must have been together for at least three months. The dog must appear to be a pit bull dog or a pit bull dog mix. The owner must be a positive role model for the community, showing how wonderful it is to have a dog identified as a pit bull as your best friend!

AKC CANINE GOOD CITIZEN® INCENTIVE AWARD
Working as a team with their human companions, dogs of all shapes and sizes have passed the AKC Canine Good Citizen® test and are now recognized as valued members of their communities. Animal Farm Foundation provides an Incentive Award to encourage dog and owner teams to earn their AKC CGC® certification as a way to support their community's shelters and rescues. While all dogs are welcomed to participate, Animal Farm Foundation will award $150 to pre-qualified participating organizations for each dog appearing to be a pit bull and owner team in their community who successfully complete the CGC program.

Dogs must be at least one year old

Dogs must be handles by their owners during the test

The Incentive Award is available for any dogs who appear to be pit bulls and their owners, not just those adopted from the participating shelter.

ACHIEVEMENT AWARD
Each day, lives are enriched by the companionship and services dogs provide. Dogs appearing to be pit bulls can earn $1000 for not-for-profit organizations by winning an Animal Farm Foundation Achievement Award. To qualify, the winning dog and owner duo must work together to win hearts and open minds so that other dogs that are identified as pit bulls can be just dogs. This team is one that is out and about in the community making strides that promote understanding and acceptance of dogs that look like pit bulls.

SPAY/NEUTER GRANT PROGRAM
Animal welfare organizations best serve their communities when they develop strong partnerships within the community, utilizing each organization's strengths to deliver to every dog owner the opportunities for low-cost and accessible spay/neuter services. Most owners of dogs appearing to be pit bulls are just like the other dog owners - Given the opportunity, they will use accessible services to care for their pet. To encourage the development of a sustainable and accessible program, Animal Farm Foundation will reimburse qualifying spay/neuter programs up to $50 for the cost of each spay/neuter surgery for dogs appearing to be pit bulls.


ANIMAL FARM FOUNDATION FUNDS PIT BULL SPECIFIC PROGRAMS, NOT BECAUSE PIT BULLS ARE DIFFERENT FROM OTHER DOGS, BUT BECAUSE THEY ARE NOT.

Animal Farm Foundation, Inc. has been in operation since the early 1980's making a stand against cruelty to animals. We now dedicate our efforts, through a variety of services, to improving the lives of dogs labeled "pit bulls" and to protecting all dogs from discrimination and cruelty.

Contact:


Animal Farm Foundation
PO Box 624
Bangall, NY 12506
Phone: (518) 398-0017
FAX: (845) 868-3275
For general information
info@animalfarmfoundation.org

For grants and awards information
grantsandawards@animalfarmfoundation.org

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Georgia On My Mind!

via the Animal Law Coalition: (thanks for your work, guys!)

Thank you, Georgia Legislature!!

http://www.animallawcoalition.com/gas-chambers/article/695%20


Let's have these be relics....

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Dog Greets Returning Soldier

This is an oldie but goodie. I think I may have posted it before but it's worth doing again. Be sure to turn up the volume!  Enjoy!

See more funny videos and funny pictures at CollegeHumor.

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Hike For Our Heroes

http://video.foxbusiness.com/v/4144066/7000m-walk-for-a-cause/?playlist_id=87003

Iraq War Veteran Troy Yocum is hiking 7,000 miles across America, banging his drum and sounding the call for $5 million to help military families in need. With Emmie the SuperDog by his side, he took the first step of his 16-month quest on April 17, 2010. Now they are on track to complete the first two weeks on schedule and return to Louisville, KY for the Kentucky Derby.

Emerson Elaine Eskridge the Superdog


Emmie (for short) is Troy's companion across the states. Troy took Emmie hiking at Red River Gorge in Eastern Kentucky, and a few days after he returned from Iraq, he realized that she is in fact an amazing trail dog. She has an abundance of energy and can hike up to 25 miles a day. No training necessary! She enjoys leading the hike out front and looks back when a fork in the trail begins. After a right or left command she is once again in full stride.

http://drumhike.com/EVENT_SCHEDULE_.html

http://drumhike.com/Sponsors__1.html

http://www.veteransflagdepot.com/hike.html

Share (Thanks to Louisville Slugger, Bionic Gloves and Veterans Flag Depot)

xoxo

I RESCUED A HUMAN TODAY

Her eyes met mine as she walked down the corridor peering apprehensively into the kennels. I felt her need instantly and knew I had to help her. I wagged my tail, not too exuberantly, so she wouldn't be afraid.

As she stopped at my kennel I blocked her view from a little accident I had in the back of my cage. I didn't want her to know that I hadn't been walked today. Sometimes the shelter keepers get too busy and I didn't want her to think poorly of them.

As she read my kennel card I hoped that she wouldn't feel sad about my past. I only have the future to look forward to and want to make a difference in someone's life.

She got down on her knees and made little kissy sounds at me. I shoved my shoulder and side of my head up against the bars to comfort her. Gentle fingertips caressed my neck; she was desperate for companionship.

A tear fell down her cheek and I raised my paw to assure her that all would be well. Soon my kennel door opened and her smile was so bright that I instantly jumped into her arms. I would promise to keep her safe. I would promise to always be by her side. I would promise to do everything I could to see that radiant smile and sparkle in her eyes. I was so fortunate that she came down my corridor. So many more are out there who haven't walked the corridors. So many more to be saved. At least I could save one.
I rescued a human today.
 
 

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May 3rd Broadway Barks Event in New York City

May 3, 2010

3:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Dylan’s Candy Bar

1011 3rd Avenue at 60th Street

Manhattan

Join Bernadette Peters on Monday, May 3rd at Dylan’s Candy Bar (1011 3rd Avenue at 60th Street) from 3 to 5 PM for a special celebration of her new children’s book, Stella Is A Star. Ms. Peters will read from the book, perform her original song called “Stella’s Song” and sign copies of the book. A portion of the proceeds from the sale of this book benefits Broadway Barks.

Win a chance to walk onstage with Bernadette Peters and Mary Tyler Moore at Broadway Barks on July 10, 2010!

From 3 to 5 PM, enter to win the opportunity to walk onstage with Bernadette Peters and Mary Tyler Moore as well as an adoptable pet at the 12th Annual Broadway Barks Adopt-a-thon in Shubert Alley on Saturday, July 10, 2010. Raffle tickets are $10 each with all proceeds benefitting Broadway Barks.

Following the book signing, Ms. Peters will select one lucky raffle entrant as the winner of the walk-on appearance at the 12th Annual Broadway Barks Adopt-a-thon. The selected winner need not be present at the time of the drawing to win.


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Guardian Angels for Soldier’s Pet Announces Site in Texas for Organization’s First Military & Veterans Pet Sanctuary

You may remember this story:
http://shelter-tails.blogspot.com/2009/12/series-on-soldiers-and-dogs-part-one.html


Hot Springs, AR, April 26, 2010 – Guardian Angels for Soldier's Pet announced today the official site for the establishment of the organization’s first "Military & Veterans Pet" (MVP) Sanctuary. The site consists of 13 acres west of Fort Hood in Gatesville, TX and will be the future home of a pet care facility, the organization’s National Office and room for events to support the troops, their families and their pets. Receiving word that the organization’s offer was accepted by the seller to buy the land marks a major milestone in Phase I of the MVP Sanctuary project.
"This is a big day for the organization and we are asking for everyone's continued support to get the word out,” said Linda Spurlin-Dominik, Founder/CEO of the organization. “We also want to extend an invitation to those who wish to make a donation so we can complete the second half of Phase I.”

According to Ms. Spurlin-Dominik, purchasing the property is a major milestone, but only half of Phase I for the overall project which was announced in February 2007. Donations can be made online at the MVP Sanctuary website via PayPal (www.mvpsanctuary.org) or by check/money order (payable to Guardian Angels for Soldier's Pet; Memo Line: MVP Sanctuary) and mailed to:

Guardian Angels for Soldier's Pet

Attn: MVP Sanctuary

167 Candleberry Circle

Hot Springs, AR 71913-2109

To learn more about the MVP Sanctuary project visit http://www.mvpsanctuary.org/  and for more information about Guardian Angels for Soldier's Pet visit http://www.guardianangelsforsoldierspet.org/.

About Guardian Angels for Soldier’s Pet:

Guardian Angels for Soldier's Pet is an all volunteer 501(c)(3) nonprofit Federal Tax Exempt public charity supporting the United States' military service members, veterans, and their beloved pets through programs aimed at reuniting pets with their owners following a deployment to harm's way (combat or peace-keeping or humanitarian mission) or an unforeseen emergency hardship.



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Having Courage

A few weeks ago the animal community was stunned at the news of a severly emaciated German Shepherd. His condition was reported in anonomously, but he was found tied to a tree with no food or water. It appears he had been left that way for a long while, some estimate 5 or 6 weeks, though I cannot believe he survived that long.

Here is a snipet from from the Examiner.com about German Shepherd Rescue of Orange County (GSROC), the group that rescued the poor dog:

When GSROC found the dog, he was lying depleted on the ground too weak to physically lift his own head! At 37 pounds, he was literally skin and bones. A healthy German Shepherd his age normally weighs between 75-85 pounds. He bore the vacant gaze of an animal so overtaken by the war waged upon him that the ghost of his own death had long since been beckoning. In fact, to look at him one couldn’t even be certain he was still a living dog. His was the image of a creature who had all but given up mentally and physically. However, it was a sheer force of will that allowed this dog to survive for as long as he had. And for that he was aptly named “Courage.”

The GSROC rescuer raced against the clock trying to get Courage to the emergency care at the Community Veterinary Hospital in Garden Grove. She feared he might not even make it to the hospital. Once there extensive emergency treatment was immediately enacted upon him including a thorough GI flush, blood, plasma, electrolyte and vitamin transfusions, antibiotics and fluids. Numerous tests were also conducted to determine organ functionality. This initial examination revealed that he, literally, would not have been able to survive one more day in those conditions. He’d held on as long as he could. When flushing out his intestinal tract to remove blockage found in the system, the vet learned it was full of dirt and rocks – Courage had been eating dirt and rocks to survive. Dirt and rocks.

Full story:

http://www.examiner.com/x-40189-LA-Dog-Rescue-Examiner~y2010m4d15-German-Shepherd-Courage-victim-of-cruel-abuse

Today, and demonstrating that once again, with a little love and care and due in part to contributions from the public (I donated a little bit and I hope you will, too), another dog is given a new lease on life..

Thankfully, Courage now basks in the love and attention of his new foster family, GSROC volunteers and Community Veterinary Hospital staff, not to mention the whole of Southern California and beyond.

From Maria Dales of GSROC says:

“Physically,” she said, “it's so refreshing to see some meat on his bones, although he has a long way to go. If this is how he looks at 55 pounds, he needs to be an 85 pound dog easily, so he'll continue to eat the high quality diet that the vet has prescribed.” His vet is Dr. Bill Grant of Community Veterinary Hospital in Garden Grove. And thanks to Dr. Grant and his staff, the affable dog seems to be getting the right amount of medical attention and TLC required for a full recovery.

To donate or learn more about Courage, call this number: (714) 974.7762 at German Shepherd Rescue of Orange County, a registered non-profit 501c(3) organization serving Orange County, Greater Los Angeles, San Bernardino, Riverside and more. Also keep updated on his progress on his web-page.

Courage's abuser, one Kimberly Nizato, faces up to five years in prison.

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xoxo (Thank you to German Shepherd Rescue of Orange County and Dr. Bill Grant of Community Veterinary Hospital in Garden Grove.)

Hero Dog Saves Owner From Fire - Goes and Gets the Police!

via the Examiner.com in NY:

Amazing video from the dashboard camera of an Alaska State Trooper's vehicle shows how a dog led the trooper through snowy roads to a fiery blaze that had erupted at his owner's property.

The raw video, distributed by the Associated Press, shows Buddy the German Shepherd dog waiting by the side of a main road on a dark and cold night. As soon as Buddy sees the trooper's headlights, the dog takes off running down a smaller road, leading the trooper's car down the right path at each fork in the road to where the fire is blazing.

The incident occurred on April 4. Buddy and his owner, 23-year-old Ben Heinrichs, were in the family workshop when a heater ignited chemicals and the workshop burst into flames, reports the AP.

"I just told him, 'We need to get help,' and then that's the last time I seen him," Heinrichs told the News-Tribune. "I didn't train him or nothing. He just took off and went and did what he did. ... He was just being a good dog."

...Heinrichs survived the fire with minor flash burns to his face, reports the AP. Buddy will receive a special award today from the Alaska State Troopers: an engraved silver-plated dog bowl.

Full story:

http://www.examiner.com/x-1028-Pet-News-Examiner~y2010m4d23-German-Shepherd-dog-leads-Alaska-State-Troopers-to-fire-Video



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New, Improved Crush Act Introduced -- Let's Get It Passed!

via ASPCA:

Dear Animal Advocates,


Earlier this week, the U.S. Supreme Court declared an important federal anti-cruelty law known as the “Crush Act” (18 U.S. Code Section 48) unconstitutional and therefore unenforceable. The Crush Act banned the creation, sale and possession of materials depicting genuine acts of animal cruelty where such acts are illegal. The Court made it clear that its major concern was the broadness of the law’s language, which could make the law applicable in many circumstances not intended by its authors.

While the ASPCA is disappointed with the Court’s decision, we are moving forward! Representative Elton Gallegly of California has acted quickly and introduced a bill to amend the law. H.R. 5092 will make the Crush Act’s language more specific and resolve the over-breadth concerns raised by the Supreme Court.

Passage of H.R. 5092 will help prevent a revitalization of the crush video industry. The original Crush Act was passed with little opposition—help us ensure that this revision passes, too.
What You Can Do

Please tell your U.S. representative that you support H.R. 5092 (which has more than 50 sponsors), and that he or she should co-sponsor the bill and help move it quickly through the legislative process.

See this link for ASPCA's Advocacy Center and find your representative's email address:  https://secure2.convio.net/aspca/site/Advocacy?cmd=display&page=UserAction&id=2695&JServSessionIdr004=7inu3ocwt2.app239b
 
Thank you for helping us fight animal suffering and exploitation.

 
The above link to ASPCA's Advocacy Center gives good background on the issue. Take a look.


Share (Thanks, ASPCA, for all your fine work. I'm proud to be a monthly donor.)

Through a Dog's Eyes

This documentary explores the relationships between people and their service dogs. On PBS. Premiered last night but they will be showing it at other times and you can view it at this link:

http://video.pbs.org/program/1430606654/


About the Film: (via PBS's website)


Through a Dog’s Eyes will change the way you feel about your own dog. The documentary follows a handful of people as they journey through the heartwarming and often challenging process of receiving their service dogs.

Jennifer Arnold, founder of Canine Assistants, discusses her teaching methods and the life-changing impact these dogs have on the recipients and their families. She gives us a glimpse of puppy-rearing and training, and takes us inside the intense and sometimes nerve-wracking experience of matching people with their dogs. Ádám Miklósi, Ph.D., one of the world’s foremost experts in dog cognition, also discusses the science behind Jennifer’s training philosophy.

You’ll also follow the families home and watch their relationships with their dogs unfold. Sometimes what began as love at first sight deepens. Occasionally the initial chemistry doesn’t last. Overall, it’s a bonding process that, as with any relationship, takes work and time.

These hopeful stories provide unique insights into the ways canine assistants improve people’s lives. What’s more, you’ll see your own dog in a whole new light.



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xoxo (Thanks, PBS -- funded largely by viewers like us).

This Is Too Bad

I don't pretend the fully appreciate all the counter points made to this proposed law, but I do know I'm not thrilled that such activity cannot be banned outright.  Just my opinion.

via the Fort Wayne, Indiana Journal Gazette:

WASHINGTON – The Supreme Court struck down a federal law Tuesday aimed at banning videos that show graphic violence against animals, saying it violates the right to free speech.
The justices, voting 8-1, threw out the criminal conviction of Robert Stevens of Pittsville, Va., who was sentenced to three years in prison for videos he made about pit bull fights.

The law was enacted in 1999 to limit Internet sales of so-called crush videos, which appeal to a certain sexual fetish by showing women crushing to death small animals with their bare feet or high-heeled shoes.

The videos virtually disappeared once the measure became law, the government argued.

But Chief Justice John Roberts, writing for the majority, said the law goes too far, suggesting that a measure limited to crush videos might be valid. Animal cruelty and dog fighting already are illegal throughout the country.

In dissent, Justice Samuel Alito said the harm animals suffer in dogfights is enough to sustain the law.


Alito said the ruling probably will spur new crush videos because it has “the practical effect of legalizing the sale of such videos.”

Animal rights groups, including the Humane Society of the United States and the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, and 26 states joined the Obama administration in support of the law. The government sought a ruling that treated videos showing animal cruelty like child pornography, not entitled to constitutional protection.

But Roberts said the law could be read to allow the prosecution of the producers of films about hunting. And he scoffed at the administration’s assurances that it would only apply the law to depictions of extreme cruelty. “But the First Amendment protects against the government,” Roberts said. “We would not uphold an unconstitutional statute merely because the government promised to use it responsibly.”

Stevens ran a business and Web site that sold videos of pit bull fights. He is among a handful of people prosecuted under the animal cruelty law. He noted in court papers that his sentence was 14 months longer than professional football player Michael Vick’s prison term for running a dogfighting ring.

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Update on Joey

Remember this story?

http://shelter-tails.blogspot.com/2010/03/being-there-for-joey.html

(Joey, just rescued)(Joey, after a little TLC)

Well, take a look:

And video!...

From Picasso Veterinary Fund's site:

RuthAnn reports that Joey will remain in her care for the next few months until he is completely healthy and ready for adoption. "He's on a very healthy diet of home-cooked dog food, carrots, apples, and vitamins. His hair is starting to grow in and he is looking mightily handsome. He loves to lay out in the yard in the sun — it hasn't been that hot yet, but when it is, he will require sun block!"

As part of his treatment, RuthAnn bathes Joey every other day. "He really likes bath time. He has to be the best dog ever when it comes to bath — he jumps right in the tub!" she says. "I think it's because I massage him for about 15 minutes, massaging in the medicated shampoo. Either that or he's just a typical male — loves massages and attention!"


Joey is a playful pup, and so willing to please, says RuthAnn. He's completely housebroken, doing well learning basic commands, and he loves kisses! He was recently neutered and now is making friends with RuthAnn's other foster dogs. Next, she'll begin a search for a permanent home for Joey. "I want Joey to have a back yard and kids to play with," she says. "He is an overgrown baby himself!…the most loving puppy, considering what was done to him." Watch the Happy Joey Video RuthAnn made and see for yourself!

See, folks, all it takes is a little love. These guys give us everything in return.

Also from their site:

We hope you'll join us in our efforts to create more happy endings by donating to the Picasso Veterinary Fund. Or consider providing a caring foster home for a cat or dog like Joey who needs a few weeks, or a few months, to get back in shape for adoption. Let us know if you'd like to help; you can e-mail us at picasso@AnimalAllianceNYC.org.

Please consider adding Picasso Veterinary Fund to your list of worthy non-profit organizations, and those all need a few bucks here and there.

http://www.picassoveterinaryfund.org/donate.php


When I ask, I often have given myself to these groups (as is the case with the last two). Even smaller contributions help. Even if it's a nominal gift, it's encouraging for them to hear from people from all over the country and the world that you think their work is worthwhile.



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On Vacation

(Look! Some doggie sized hats for Halloween! Won't they be happy!)

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Cloud 9 Rescue Flights -- 19 Dogs Transported This Weekend

Having just adopted a dog from the rural south of these United States, where there literally are no spay/neuter programs, I know first hand how important it is for organizations like Cloud 9 Rescue Flights to get support from the public. While I did not utilize them, due to needing to get Mr. Wiggins up from Louisiana quickly so I could use my week off to get him acclimated, I see that they literally saves lives with their work.

Today 19 dogs will get safe passage form South Carolina to Manchester, NH. They will be saved from the gas chamber, a barbaric form of execution that takes more than 20 minutes, and often leaves the 20+ dogs in the chamber at one time sick and in need of a second gassing. I kid you not. There are forces that are working against the gas chamber usuage, but until they have their victory the best we can do is support safe passage out.

Take a minute, please, and give a few bucks to Cloud 9 Rescue Flights.

http://www.cloudninerescueflights.org/

From their site:

Cloud Nine is a registered 501(c)3 non-profit organization dedicated to providing flights to those in need at no cost. Cloud Nine works with organizations that coordinate these flights, performing flights to transport children and adults for medical purposes, and also transporting animals for animal rescue flights.

Cloud Nine’s mission is to fulfill flight needs that are otherwise difficult to fill. We are unique in our ability to provide an extremely capable aircraft for long trips. Trips can exceed 700 miles one-way, costing upwards of $2,000 per flight. Being able to perform these trips in a single aircraft makes them less strenuous for those being transported, as well as greatly increasing the ability to complete a mission, by only having one pilot and aircraft required. In addition, our aircraft is larger and more capable than many aircraft frequently used for these types of flights, which allows us to complete flights that otherwise would not be possible.

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Moving On Up!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=frHvc9QRdYs&playnext_from=TL&videos=_JKXmLNamcQ&feature=grec


via ohmidog.com:

On April 30, the Postal Service will issue a 44–cent, Animal Rescue: Adopt a Shelter Pet stamp series.

With the 10 stamp designs — five cats and five dogs — the U.S. Postal Service hopes to raise awareness of the need to adopt shelter pets.

Read their stories at Ohmidog! 

 Each one has a story and now, a happy ending!

http://www.ohmidog.com/2010/03/22/stamps-will-feature-once-homeless-pets/

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High Speed Pug Painting

via Dogster:

Be sure to watch it to the music!




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You Sure That Fur Is Fake, Part II

For background, see this:
http://shelter-tails.blogspot.com/2010/01/you-sure-that-fur-is-fake.html

Kudos to the California State Assembly, for tackling this issue.

via The Associated Press:

Clothes that are made with animal fur would need special labels in California under legislation adopted Monday by the State Assembly. Lawmakers voted 46 to 7 to close a loophole in federal law that allows many fur products to go unlabeled. Current law requires labels only for garments that have $150 or more worth of animal fur. The bill now goes to the State Senate. ”I think there is an expectation that if clothing isn’t labeled as real fur it must be fake, but this isn’t always the case,” Fiona Ma, the author of the bill, said in a statement after the vote. ”People have a right to know if they are buying raccoon, dog or a polyester blend.”

Full story here:
http://www.nytimes.com/2010/04/06/us/06brfs-KNOWINGDIFFE_BRF.html?partner=TOPIXNEWS&ei=5099



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Rolling Dog Ranch - in Beautiful New Hampshire?

In the OMG category!

I'm sad for Montana and RDR's long time volunteers, but happy for all the reasons they list in their blog. Take a look-see.

http://blog.rollingdogranch.org/

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Have a Blessed Easter

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Good Friday

This photo would be more appropriate during Christmas probably, or another high holy day. But it has a dog and this is a mostly-dog blog. I took it at St. Dominic's Church in San Francisco when I was there last. Their 7:30am Mass was packed. It was a beautiful and reverent Mass, and of course I zeroed in on the dog in the statuary.

Have a blessed Passover and Easter, all.

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