Protecting Animals and People

Working Together!

2010-03-27T20:52:00.002-05:00

As of late, I have had several people ask me if I could take their dog or puppies, and find them homes. Unfortunately, I am not able to offer this service. What people need to know is that I am technically a pound, not a shelter. So what is the difference?

Well, a shelter generally survives on donations and grants. Most often, they are no-kill, which means they do not euthanize their animals. They keep them until they find homes for them. This is not always the case, but most often they have the ability to keep animals for a longer period of time than I do. They are also often afilliated with people who will provide foster homes for animals until a more permanent placement can be found. The larger shelters often have their own veterinarian either on premises, or on call, which means that the animals you might get from them will have already been spayed or neutered, and be up to date on their shots. Many shelters will also micro-chip their animals prior to adoption, and they charge a larger adoption fee. Often shelters will require you to go through a home check prior to adoption, and they will require you fill out an application. And they usually have a much larger animal capacity than I do.

Pounds, like mine, are generally controlled by a City or County government. This means we usually have a limited budget, and for this reason, are unable to provide many of the services a shelter might be able to provide, like spaying or neutering prior to adoption. We usually have a smaller animal capacity than a shelter, and since we are regulated by our respective City or County governmental bodies, we will have limits on how long we may keep an animal before we are forced to euthanize them.

The other main difference, is that a shelter will welcome animals from private citizens unable to care for or keep their pets...often for a donation of some kind. The Kansas Humane Society in Wichita is a good example of this. City or County pounds, more often than not, can only take in the animals they catch running loose...and as I just mentioned, then only keep them for a short period of time. Since our space is usually very limited ( I only have 12 cages ) we are forced to move our animals in and out much faster...one way or the other.

While I do make every effort to find homes for every dog & cat coming through our pound, the sad truth is, there are too many animals for the number of potential homes available! Somewhere between 4-5 million dogs are euthanized every year in this country. So try as I might, the truth is I just can't save them all. No one can!

But you can help! How? By having your dog or cat spayed or neutered for starters! While it is true that you can find pure-breds in many shelters, they are far out numbered by the mixed breeds. And I think we all know how the breeds get mixed! The other way you can help is by working with your local pound or shelter. Be a volunteer! This doesn't mean you have to clean out the dirty cages, although I'm sure that would be much appreciated! No, what many...most...of the dogs I have need, is love & attention! They need socialization, training, and someone to just sit & pet them for a while, or maybe take them for a walk outside!

And finally, in my case, work with me to find a home for your pet, instead of dumping them out in the country, or just turning them loose and hope I will find them! While I may not be able to take your dog right away, in many cases, I might be able to help find a suitable foster home or animal rescue that can! It may take a little longer, but if you ever truly loved & cared for your pet...then surely you would think it worth the wait.

I'm willing to bet your pet would think so!

Winterize Your Pets!

2010-01-07T20:08:00.004-06:00

As I am writing this, the wind is howling outside my door, and the temperature is about 10 below zero with windchill factored in. If it is too cold for you...then most likely, it is too cold for your pets as well!

So which dogs handle cold better? Labrador Retrievers, Golden Retrievers, German Shepherds, Huskies and American Eskimo's are all breeds that handle cold weather very well. That doesn't mean that in extreme temperatures like we are having now, they won't need a little extra help...like hay in their dog houses for example. Breeds that don't do well in weather like we are having now are Boxers, Chihuahuas, Miniature Pinschers, Smooth Coated Rat Terriers, Pitt Bulls, and several other breeds that have smooth coats. They will definitely need more protection than just hay...such as sweaters or coats. The best thing you can do for these breeds is to bring them inside during frigid weather! In temperatures like we are having now, they won't last long outside, even with a sweater! Like I said, if it's too cold for you, even with a sweater, it's too cold for many of these dogs too!

One other thing to remeber is those chemicals you use to treat ice. Salt, and other types of ice melt can have adverse effects on your pets if they lick their paws after they have walked through them. You can combat this by having them wear dog booties, or be sure to wipe their paws down with a cloth after they come inside.

If your pet resides indoors, protect the animals feet when you take him outside in sub zero weather. He is not accustomed to the freezing ground. You can provide them with shoes or spray PAM on their feet. The PAM seals their feet, locks out the cold and prevents their feet from cracking.

If your is an outdoor pet, ensure your animal has a continuous supply of fresh water and an adequate, daily food supply. Placing the water inside an enclosed area will prevent it from freezing. A light bulb placed near the bowl will also help to prevent the water from freezing. Avoid metal bowls, which freeze faster than plastic bowls. And remember, dogs will need more food than normal in extremely cold weather to help keep their metabolic rate up and enable them to stay warmer.

Finally, here are a few tips regarding appropriate bedding for your outside dogs:

Thick Pad with Cedar Chips or Shredded Newspaper:
One form of winter bedding dog owners may choose is a thick pad, with a washable cover, containing cedar chips or shredded newspaper, Cedar chips can irritate a dog's skin and may cause an allergic reaction in some animals. If a dog frequently chews on items, this type of bedding may not be a good option because of the danger of chips or paper ingestion.

Blanket or Quilt:
Many dog owners may utilize a blanket or a quilt as winter bedding for their dog. Dog owners must ensure the blanket or quilt does not get wet with water or ice. A wet blanket or quilt may retain water making a dog colder. Specialty stores now sell heated dog blankets.

Straw or Hay:Straw or hay provides a good bedding option for dogs as it allows moisture to evaporate and both are relatively inexpensive. However, like other types of bedding, straw or hay needs frequent changing as it may harbor pests or other insects and can also become wet. If unchanged, straw or hay may become moldy which can lead to respiratory or skin problems in dogs.

If you aren't sure you have a cold weather breed dog, you can follow this link, and see if yours in on the list!

http://www.dogbreedcenter.com/cold-weather-dogs-image-gallery.htm

Have a happy, furry Christmas!

2009-12-21T07:41:00.002-06:00

I hope everyone reading this article has a very Merry (and Furry) Christmas! Furry you ask? Well sure! We don't want to forget our little furry friends, do we?

Please remember, while there are a few hidden dangers for our pets during the holidays - such as certain foods & plants, there are also many wonderful moments to be shared as well!

One thing I thought of, was traveling with our pets this Christmas! Thinking of taking Fido or Fluffy with you this year? Outstanding! I love taking my pets when I travel! Motel Six and many other places are pet friendly, so if you are driving to Grandma's this year, google the pet friendly places along the way!

Does your pet get car sick? Now this can be a bummer...but it can also be dealt with. Obviously, if you are just now starting to address this issue, it may not be possible to train your pet to ride without becoming sick at this late date. You may want to go the route of a pet motion sickness medication. Dramamine or Benadryl can be used for pets, just as for people...but never attempt to administer these medications without consulting with your Vet. Dosage is extremely important with pets, as it would be with children, so your Vet will need to tell you what dosage will be safe for your pet based on its weight and/or age. There are some non-prescription medications available such as "Johnston's Travel Eze", or "Pet Calm". Ask your Vet about these as well, and see what they recommend!

Here are a few other tips that may make the trip more enjoyable:

1. You may want to make sure your dog has an empty stomach before getting in the car. Don't give him any food 3 to 4 hours prior to travel. Some vets also recommend limiting water intake just before travelling.
2. Allow your dog to relieve itself before travelling.
3. If you know your dog is prone to car sickness, be sure to take it slow, and be extra careful around sharp curves or up and down hills.
4. There are a number of homeopathic solutions that help reduce travel sickness. You can google these on the internet, or go to someplace like Pet Smart for help in finding one that works!
5. Open the window a little. Fresh air does wonders for animals that have a tendency to get car sick. Take note of the temperature; dogs cannot regulate their body temperatures as efficiently as humans can, so make sure it isn't too hot or too cold in the car.
6. Looking out the window can bring on nausea in many dogs, so consider keeping your pet safe and secure in a covered portable crate.
7. Be prepared in case the dog gets queasy in the car. Cover the seats, bring towels, paper towels and bags, give a back seat dog plenty of air, play soothing music, and do not play music too loudly.
8. For long road trips, give yourself and your pet a rest stop and take a walk every two or three hours. Aviod dehyrdation and take a good travel bowl will allow them to have a drink during the break.

So, gear up, break out the doggie downers, and hit the road to the relatives for Christmas! Taking the pets can be almost as much fun as taking the kids...and you wouldn't leave them behind...would you?!!!

Brrrrrrrr!

2009-12-16T20:08:00.001-06:00

Just Say No !

2009-12-16T19:59:00.001-06:00

We all have our favorite foods & beverages. Not surprisingly, so do our our dogs. And often, it just happens to be the same as ours! Spoiling our pets often becomes second nature to us. Unfortunately, many of us don't know that that we may not just be spoiling them, but we might be poisoning them as well!

So here are a few of the things we should NEVER feed our dogs...no matter how much they beg for it!

Alcohol: Alcohol depresses brain function in dogs and can send them into a coma. It can cause further damage by turning their blood acidic.

Dogs are not equipped with the protective enzymes that allow humans to imbibe reasonable amounts of alcohol without harm. And because most dogs are smaller than humans and are more sensitive to alcohol, it doesn't take much to cause serious problems. How much depends on the size of the dog, and the amount and type of alcohol it consumes.

So - no pina colodas for Fido. Not for fun, and not by accident with those party leftovers.

Coffee: The caffine in a cup of coffee is a methylxanthine compound that binds to receptors on all surfaces, precluding the normal compounds from attaching there. In english? Caffine blocks the normal compounds from attaching to Fidos blood cells. In much the same way that inhaling carbon monoxide from your cars exhaust will block oxygen from attaching to your blood cells. It just tastes better to Fido.

Caffine in any form - coffee, tea, soda, or chocolate - can increase your dogs heart rate, produce an irregular heart beat, and trigger seizures. It can also cause severe gastrointestinal problems. So no Starbucks for Fido!

Garlic: Someone once told me that if you eat a lot of garlic, you won't be bothered by many types types of biting insects, like mosquitoes and fleas. Or your friends & neighbors either! So...by logical extension, you might think it will work the same way for your dog. WRONG!

Garlic, in any form, breaks down a dog's red blood cells, and large amounts over time can lead to anemia and possible kidney failure from leaking hemoglobin.

Dogs don't have the necessary enzyme to properly breakdown the compound thiosulphate, which is a prime ingredient of garlic.

According to ASPCA (American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals), if a dog eats 0.5 % of its body weight in garlic, it can show signs of poison. In otherwords, just five grams (0.18 ounces) of garlic per kilogram (2.2 lbs), or two grams (0.07 ounces) of garlic per pound, can mean an emergency trip to the Vet for Fido. As you can see, it doesn't take much.

Chocolate: If you take nothing else from this article, please remember this! The chemical contained in chocolate - theobromine - can be fatal to our furry friends! Just 3 ounces (85 grams) of dark chocolate, or seven ounces (198 grams) of milk chocolate can bring on vomiting in a 50 pound dog!

Chocolate also contains the methylxanthine compound reffered to earlier in coffee, making the combination a deadly & dangerous combination for our best friends. Dogs don't metabolize & excrete theobromine as fast as humans, causing a toxic build up in the blood.

So, how can you tell if Fido has been the victim of chocolate toxicity? The signs can occur withing hours. They include vomiting, diarrhea, increased heart rate, rapid breathing, tremors, seizures and coma. This one is serious, so be sure to tell the children, no chocolate for the dog. No matter how much they beg, just say no!

Grapes: Animal toxicologists have found that grapes and raisins can cause acute renal and kidney failure in dogs.

Though the research is ongoing, some suspect the cause may be a compound soluble in water, which is indigestibal to dogs. A possible fungal toxin is also suspected.

One thing is known for sure. As few as ten raisins or grapes could be fatal to your beloved pooch.

Onions: Aside from the breath issue, onions for your dog is a bad idea for another reason. The damage caused by ingesting onions is cumultive, so small tastes over time can be potentially worse than if Spot ate the whole bulb at once.

Whether its done over time, or all at once, the eating of onions by dogs can cause anemia.

Anything onion, like anything garlic, also contains the thiosulphate compound, which we now know dogs lack the enzyme to digest.

Yeast: Like alcohol, ingestion of yeast can cause fatal damage. Active yeast found in raw bread releases alcohol as it grows.

Yeast enjoys moist, warm environments - like a dogs stomach. The expanding dough can prevent blood from flowing to the heart, by distending or expanding the abdomen.

Macadamia Nuts: Expets have yet to discover why just a few of these nuts can produce tremors, even temporary paralysis, in a dogs hind legs.

High phosphorus content in nuts in general, can cause kidney stones in dogs. And it doesn't take much...four or five nuts and a 10 pound dog can show signs of poison. The holidays are nearing, so be extra vigilant with that nut cracker this holiday season!

Finally, just another precautionary note about the dangers of Antifreeze and your pets. Every year it is estimated that about 10,000 cats & dogs will be the victims of accidental anitfreeze poisoning. Most commercial brands of antifreeze consists of about 95 % ethylene glycol, an extremely toxic chemical. Just a few licks of this sweet-tasting liquid can be fatal to your cat or dog. (It is also extremely hazardous to children!)

For a medium sized dog, ingestion of about 2 ounces (3-4 tablespoons)is toxic. For a cat, as little as 1/4 of an ounce (1-2 teaspoons) can be fatal.

Both cats & dogs are attracted to the taste and smell of antifreeze. So when changing out that radiator in preparation for the upcoming winter season, please use extra care to be sure there is none left on the ground for our furry loved ones to sample.

Antifreeze poisoning occurs in two stages: In the first stage, the ethylene glycol in the antifreeze causes a drunken appearance in the animal within about 30 minutes which may continue for several hours. After passing through stage 1, the animal appears to recover. Stage 2 begins when the dog's liver begins metabolizing the ethylene glycol, changing it into more toxic substances. Within 12 to 36 hours of ingestion, these metabolites have reached such a level that the dog's kidneys stop functioning, and the animal slips into a coma.

Symptoms of antifreeze poisoning include a drunken appearance including staggering, lack of coordination, and apparent disorientation and vomiting. The animal may appear listless and depressed. Because early signs of antifreeze poisoning often mimic signs of other illness, neither you or your veterinarian may suspect antifreeze poisoning until it is too late. Fortunately, in house lab tests performed by your veterinarian by assist in the diagnosis of antifreeze toxicity.

Getting the dog or cat to a veterinarian is critical within the first 9-12 hours following ingestion. After that length of time, the liver will have already begun metabolizing the ethylene glycol into substances that cause kidney failure and ultimately death. Many people have asked, "What should be done to immediately care for my pet. Should I induce vomiting or give activated charcoal to my pet?"

Please take note: These are very short term fixes and not a cure. The faster your pet is treated by a veterinarian the better the chances of recovery. Again, this poison is extremely toxic.

So, remember that just because you can do someting...it doesn't mean you should. When Kitty or Fido start begging for that tasty little morsel left over on our plates...for their health and our peace of mind...just say no! And please watch those household and garage chemicals. Our furry friends only know what smells and tastes good...not what is good for them. Just like our two-legged children, they depend on us to sort that out for them, and to protect them from themselves!

Frequently asked questions!

2009-11-03T21:04:00.002-06:00

I'm often asked questions regarding our furry friends. For as long as dogs and cats have been a part of our history, many people have no idea about the little things that make our pets unique. So, for fun, I thought I would list some of the most frequently asked questions and post the answers. Knowledge is power the old saying goes...and gaining a little extra can be fun too!

Enjoy!

1. Are dogs color blind?
Answer: Dogs are not color blind - they see color, but their chromatic acuity is significantly less than humans'. This is for two reasons: (1) dogs have far fewer cone cells in their retina (cone cells are responsible for seeing color); and (2) dogs are dichromatic (they see only two primary colors - blue and yellow) whereas humans are trichromatic, meaning we see three primary colors - red, blue, and green.
Humans have 7 times higher proportion of cone cells than dogs, meaning that when dogs do see colors, they are pale or faded. However dogs have a much higher concentration of rod cells, responsible for seeing black-and-white, and also much more sensitive in lower light conditions. For that reason, dogs have much better night vision than people.

2. Can dogs get frost bite or sun burns?
Answer: Yes they can. Although not all areas are prone to sunburn, the most important locations that are prone are the belly, the tips of the ears and tips of the nose. Although most of you have not thought about the possibility of sunburn on your dog, it is a serious condition that can cause certain injuries. Some of these injuries are skin ulcers (aka sores), infections and even cancer that can spread through the body. Sunburn threat is more serious in some dog breeds than others. For instance, short haired dogs or lightly colored ones are more prone to sunburn than other dog breeds. Lighter dogs naturally have thinner hair and will allow more sunlight to reach the skin of the dog. In addition, shorter dogs get the shorter stick because they are closer to the ground. Being closer to the ground causes sun reflecting from the pavement and other lighter ground covering such as sand to cause sunburn, especially on the belly region. On the other hand, some larger breeds are just naturally prone to cancer which makes the common case of sunburn in a more serious threat status than other dog breeds. Some of these breeds are Weimaraners and Boxers.

3. Is it true my pet will get fat if I have them spayed or neutered?
Answer: Lack of exercise and overfeeding makes pets fat and lazy, not spaying and neutering. Spayed and neutered pets are typically healthier and actually live an average of two to three years longer than unsterilized pets. Exercise your pet just as you did before they were fixed, and they will suffer no ill effects from weight gain.

4. How long does a female stay in heat?
Answer: Female dogs have a heat cycle that takes about three weeks to complete. Female cats cycle at approximately 21 day intervals during the spring, summer and fall.

5. How do I get the smell of dog urine out of my floor?
Answer: Dog urine is powerful stuff, and the smell can linger for years after the dog is gone, enticing any new four-legged family member to use the smelly spot as a "potty spot".

Use an enzyme based cleaner (we recommend Nature's Miracle) and follow the directions on the label.

Tip: Do NOT use an ammonia product, or bleach. The smell simulates the smell of urine, and the dog will continue to use that area for a bathroom.

6. Why shouldn't I breed my dog?
Answer: For every puppy born, three die in shelters. There are too many out there and not enough homes for them all.

Complications in birth and pregnancies happen all the time. You could face losing your dog to death, and all the puppies with her. Will YOU pay the $1200.00 for a much-needed emergency cesarean section when she cannot deliver the pups?

What about sexually-transmitted diseases? That stud dog you had pickled out may have one. They are more common than you think.

How about genetic diseases? They abound.

Breeding is not a careless affair, it is so much more than bringing bitch and stud together during a heat cycle.

7. Do dogs get depression?
Answer: Like humans, dogs do occasionally suffer from bouts of depression. They get mopey, lethargic, stop eating, and drink only minimal amounts of water, stop wanting to play, and even lose drastic amounts of weight.

What can cause this in pets?

Grief, change of scenery, or sometimes it is a chemical imbalance, needing medication to correct it. Even the weather can adversely affect a normally happy dog. The most common reason for dog depression however, is lack of social interaction with their human owners. Dogs are pack animals...and our families are the pack they want to be with... a task made difficult when they kept constantly chained to a tree. Dogs don't just want to be near us...they need to be with us. Left to their own, watching us go about our daily lives, watching the kids playing in the distance while never being able to particpate runs counter to everything that makes a dog our best friend. Not only will your dog benefit from you spending quality time with them, numerous studies on humans have found that quality pet time makes us live longer too!

8. Is it ok for dogs and cats to eat grass?
Answer: Grass eating by dogs and cats is considered normal by most veterinarians. Dogs in the wild do the same thing to supplement their diet with vegetation. You should only be concerned about access to grass that has been treated with herbicides, insecticides, or fertilizers that might cause illness. If chemicals have not been used on the grass, your pooch can graze away!

9. How often should I bathe my dog?
Answer: The simplest answer to this question is, whenever he needs it. Dogs who spend the most of their time indoors will not need much bathing, while dogs who are outside a lot, romping in the mud and trees (and possibly other smelly things) will need to be bathed more often. Also, some dogs' coats will accumulate grease and oil more quickly than others.

Breeds prone to oily skin and other skin conditions, such as Cocker Spaniels, benefit from regular bathing about every four weeks. Breeds with a thick, double coat, like huskies and chows, only need bathing about three or four times a year. Washing a dog with an undercoat more often than this can make the coat softer and less waterproof and insulating.

In general, you can use your common sense to judge when your dog needs bathing. If you're concerned about causing dry skin, there are moisturizing treatments available at most pet stores, which you rub into your dog's skin after you shampoo him. If your dog seems uncomfortable or shows signs of skin problems, consult your veterinarian.

10. What is Parvo?
Answer: Parvovirus is a dangerous virus that attacks dogs' intestinal tracts. It can cause severe bloody diarrhea, vomiting, and electrolyte imbalances and can lead to severe dehydration, a buildup of toxins or poisons in the bloodstream, and eventually death. When puppies under 12 weeks old are infected, the virus can damage the heart muscle and cause lifelong cardiac problems. Parvovirus is extremely contagious and can be transmitted by any person, animal, or object that comes in contact with a infected dog's feces. The virus can survive extreme heat and cold for long periods of time, and may remain alive on a surface long after the feces has been removed.

There are many ways you can protect your dog from parvovirus. Most veterinarians recommend multiple vaccinations for growing puppies. As dogs get older, their immunity is maintained with annual booster shots. Use a solution of one part bleach to thirty parts water to clean areas frequented by other dogs, and use the solution on the soles of your shoes if you think you've walked through an infected area.

If your dog experiences vomiting, severe diarrhea, depression, or loss of appetite, see your veterinarian as soon as possible. Though there are presently no drugs to kill the virus, there are treatments proven to control its symptoms.

Are you "pet friendly" ?

2009-10-07T08:04:00.003-05:00

Being pet friendly means more than just loving animals. It also means that we never subject them to physical or verbal abuse. We are not allowed to treat our children that way, and under Kansas State law, we are not allowed to treat out pets that way either. Beating your dog is considered by law to be a form of animal cruelty, which is now a Felony in the State of Kansas.

I have trained dogs for many years, and frankly, I have never had a time when it was necessary to hit a dog. Most dogs respond quite well to verbal commands and the inflection of the owners voice. There are some breeds that require a firmer bit of handling, but that does not mean hitting them. For these dogs, once you lay a hand on them, you have lost control of them forever.

Recently, I have had several reports of owners that have been seen beating their dogs. I cannot emphasize strongly enough, that this is never an acceptable means of discipline, and in many instances, can be counter productive to what you trying to accomplish. More importantly, it is illegal. If you have a training issue, please contact me for assistance. There are many excellent training programs available online or through the mail that can help you train the perfect dog. I will also be glad to help you with a few tips as well.

I urge everyone to be pet friendly, and let your dogs know that there is never a reason to bite the hand that feeds them. Extend your hand in love, never anger!

Old Man Winter is around the corner...are you ready?

2009-10-07T07:51:00.002-05:00

There is a chill in the air, which signals the arrival of the winter season. Are you ready? More importantly, are your animals? This is the time to start helping them get ready by making sure they have adequate shelter if they are outside dogs. Be sure they have sufficient warm bedding inside their dog houses, and you will need to check their water bowls every morning to be sure they are not frozen over. Also, remember that many breeds of dogs have shorter coats, and can get chilled quite easily. Like people, dogs can suffer from hypothermia, and freeze to death at worst, or catch colds or pneumonia at the least. If they need a doggie sweater, please make sure they have one. Last winter, even though it wasn't as cold and snowy as predicted, I did have a couple reports of dogs freezing to death.

Finally, remember that during cold weather, dogs will need a little more food than normal in order to keep their metabolism working up to par, in order to help fight the cold.And don't forget to check those weather reports every evening, and bring Fido or Fluffy inside if the temperature is going to hit the freezing mark. Even if they dog freeze to death, a dog can get frostbite on it's feet, tail and tips of its ears...and even its nose! Be vigilant and help your pet through what many are forecasting to be a potentially bad winter!

Happy Fourth of July!

2009-06-29T17:43:00.006-05:00

As the 4th of July looms around the corner, you are probably spending your evenings as I have been...listening to all the neighbors popping off those cases of fireworks they have been lugging home. So, this might be a good time to remind everyone that while we humans find this an occasion for celebration, animals might have a different view point entirely!

Many dogs & cats are scared to death of loud noises like thunder, cars back-firing, and of course...fireworks. So how can you minimize their anguish? Well, the answer largely depends on whether your pet is an inside or outside pet. If Fido or Fluffy stays outside, nothing short of being stoned on pet tranquilizers and and being very securely confined will help. Sorry...no need to gloss it over. The fireworks are everywhere, all day...all night. Unless you can bring them in in the evening, they will be at the mercey of every neighbor with a bottle rocket or an M-80!

If your pets are indoor pets, there is help! If you gone during the day or evening, leave the T.V. or radio on...and turn them up a little to help drown out the noise of the outside pyrotechnics. Sometimes, if they are extremely fearful, you may still need the aid of a pet tranquilizer. Ask your Vet what they recommend for these trying times.

And even though I really shouldn't have to say this...say it I will. Parents, please tell your children that it is not permissible to throw fire crackers at animals, strap them to cats tails, or a myriad of other equally nasty little cruelties that animals often suffer.

So, celebrate the birthday of our country. Enjoy the fireworks displays - large or small. But try and remember that not every member of our household is thrilled with the whole thing. They will need a little extra love and attention too!

Things to ponder?

2009-06-03T18:20:00.002-05:00

As we go through our daily grind, how many of us really stop to consider the things around us? I'm not talking about things like houses, office buildings or the new car the neighbor just bought. I'm referring to the other things around us. Trees, plants, birds and turtles. Yep...turtles!

Today I came across a very large turtle, about the size of the hubcap on the Toyota my wife drives. To reach this size - if I am remembering my biology correctly - usually takes a turtle around 20 to 30 years. This particular turtle was a female - with eggs. The true tragedy here is that aside from the death of this marvelous creature and her potential offspring, it really didn't have to happen in the first place. Unfortunately, what with cell phones, CD players and XM radio...we often find way too many things inside our vehicles to distract us from seeing what is outside. We go too fast, and observe too little.

I can't help but wonder why it wasn't possible that the person who ran over this poor creature, didn't see her lumbering across the street, and give her a chance? I can only hope they tried to avoid hitting her. I would hate to think that any of us would be so cold and callous, that we would take the destruction of a creature 20 or 30 years old with a frivilous attitude. If that were true...that would really be the greatest tragedy of all!

Rabies Season Is Here!

2009-04-01T10:48:00.002-05:00

Well, it's that time of year again. Rabies season is here, and so far this year, there have been 16 cases of rabies reported in the State of Kansas. See link here:

http://www.vet.ksu.edu/depts/dmp/service/rabies/2009/KSpos09.htm

As you can see, all but three of the reported cases have been from skunks. Here in Eureka, there have been several reports of skunk activity during daylight hours. While it is unusual for skunks to be seen during daylight hours, it is not totally unheard of. Here are a few reasons you might observe a skunk moving about during daylight hours:

1. Bad Weather: Skunks will move about when the space in which they reside beomes too wet, too cold, or both. They will look for someplace dryer and warmer, and often will move about in daylight to do so.

2. Noise or other disturbances: Skunks will move about if the space in which they reside is no longer habitable due to continuous loud noises or other disturbances. Some of these might be disturbances from chainsaws, quads(four-wheel drive motorcycles), activity from nearby bull dozers or dump trucks, or any other loud and/or continuous activity which they consider threatening.

3. Food: Skunks are omnivores, meaning they eat meat and plant materials. They are also attracted to garbage, and pet food. Skunks are also one of the primary predators of the Honeybee, relying on their thick fur to protect them from stings. The skunk scratches at the front of the beehive and eats the guard bees that come out to investigate. Mother skunks are known to teach this to their young.

Skunks typically account for about 20-25% of all reported rabies cases, nationwide. Not all skunks "carry" rabies. Clinical signes of rabies in skunks can last from 1 to 18 days, before the animal dies. If you should come across the dead carcass of a skunk, you should notify Animal Control for removal.

The main point is that while many people think that skunks are nocturnal animals, this is just a popular myth. Actually, skunks are crepuscular, meaning they come out mostly at dawn and dusk. During late summer and early fall, skunks may be seen more frequently during the day as a result of the young exploring their new world.

Rabies - What You Should Look For:

1. Furious Rabies - Generally indicated by heightened agression, irritability and restlessness. Instead of running away or displaying warning behavior, such as hissing, stamping it's feet, etc. - which a skunk will normally do - it will actively pursue the pet or person trying to bite them.

2. Dumb Rabies - These animals are lethargic, depressed, partially paralyzed and may appear unusually tame. They may stumble about, often appearing to be drunk, or they may just sit still, weaving about unsteadily. They will eventually die.

If you should encounter a skunk showing the signs of either of the above - call Animal Control immediately. Do not attempt to trap the animal yourself!

As with anything related to wild animals, common sense should dictate caution when you have a close encounter of any kind. As the weather warms up, you may encounter many other animal species wandering about during daylight hours. Just remember to exercise caution, and report anything you think might be unusual.

You can reach me at 750-0302, anytime.

Clinic was a success!

2009-02-23T20:48:00.003-06:00

This is just a sincere "Thank You!" to all who participated in the Annual City Tag & Rabies Clinic, held this past Saturday, February 21st.

Last count was at 105 tags sold, which was double what we did last year. And today Monday), I know others came and purchased their tags, since they were unable to make it Saturday.

Obviously, we all know there are many more than 105 dogs and cats living within the city limits. But, now that the price of tags has been lowered, it is hoped that it will make it easier for all to get their tags throughout the year, and getting the tags is what is truly important...no matter when it happens!

So thanks again to all who participated, and a special thank you to Dr. Droge and his staff, who worked very hard to keep up with the long lines. We are talking about even trying to do another one in a few months. We'll keep you posted!

ANNUAL CITY TAG & RABIES CLINIC

2009-02-18T17:33:00.002-06:00

If your pets could talk…they’d be telling you that you need to come to the Clinic this coming Saturday, February 21st, from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM and get their City tags and rabies shots! The Clinic will be held at Memorial Hall.

The cost of City tags for all dogs and cats that have not been fixed is now only $6.00! It is $4.00 for those that have been spayed or neutered.

Doctor Droge and his fine staff will also be present to get those rabies shots – which are required to get City tags – and any other shots your pets might need. He will be offering all shots and worming treatments at a discounted price…so now is the time to get them done!

If your pet is current on its rabies vaccination, please bring proof with you to the Clinic.

Current City tags and rabies vaccinations are required all dogs & cats living within the city limits. Tags are required, whether or not the pet is an inside animal or not. City tags are required on all puppies and kittens, regardless of age. Rabies shots are not required on animals under six months of age.

Any questions should be directed to the Animal Control Officer : 750-0302, or the City Clerk : 583-6511

A friendly dog is a good dog!

2009-02-02T20:54:00.005-06:00

Many years ago, I learned in a psychology class while in college about the detrimental effects of proper external stimuli on animals (both the two and the four legged variety), and how it can adversley affect them as they get older.

An example in our text book reflected on two groups of kittens. One group was allowed to roam free, and do what kittens do...climb, jump, play fight, play with toys, chase string and so on.

Another group was deprived of those experiences. They were kept in an area that was comfortable, but devoid of the space needed to learn play, develop proper socialization skills with other animals, and devoid of changes in their external stimuli. The area they were kept was always lit, very quiet and they were kept from prolonged exposure to other of their kind.

The findings of this study were quite informative. The kittens who were exposed to an open, stimulus filled existence, were able to jump up and down at will on things like furniture. They had no apparent fear of heights, reacted in a positive manner when exposed to other kittens from outside their control group, and enjoyed play activities.

The kittens that were deprived of the same open environment were not well developed. The would not jump up on furniture - like chairs or couches. When placed up on these items, they were afraid to jump down. They did not climb like normal kittens, and when exposed to high levels of external stimuli - like screaming children, loud music, etc., they became very fearful and withdrawn. They exhibited anti-social behavior when exposed to others of their age group and species. When presented with toys, or string to chase, they just sat there and stared at them. Also, because they were never exposed to darkness, they showed a marked lack of development with regards to their night vision ability, and so they also became fearful of darkened spaces, because they could not navigate like normal.

Why do I relate this story? Mainly because on my daily travels around Eureka, I often encounter many animals that display the unfortunate behaviorial symptoms of those under stimulated kittens. These animals tend to be fearful of people, agressive towards people and/or other animals - even of their own species - and are fearful of doing things that normal animals would take for granted...like playing with toys, jumping up onto a seat in a vehicle, or walking on a leash. Often, these animals are not even trained well enough to come when called by their own name.

Many of these animals have not been properly socialized, spending much - if not all -of their lives at the end of chain in the back yard. Not much use for a name if they are left to chase their tails all day as they wrap those chains around a tree.

No need to learn to come to their name when they are called either, since once they are finally free to run, they have no intention of returning to the meager existence from which they just escaped. They view most other animals as either threats to their personal safety, or competition for mates or food. People walking, other animals attempting to be sociable, children playing are all seen as things to fear. In the animal kingdom, you either run from what you fear...or you try and dominate it.

The point of this article is not about whether or not an animal should be chained up or not. It is about the need to properly socialize our pets. Not just to other animals, but most importantly to people. Walking people, people riding bicycles, children running and shouting. All the things that normal people do everyday. Your dog does not have to be so well socialized that it would rather sleep in your neighbors bed than yours...but it should not try and bite your neighbors hand off when offered either. It should be trained to learn and respond to its named being called, even by your neighbor. It should not chase people walking or riding a bike in a threatening manner, and it should never chase and try and bite children runnning in play.

The good news is that when the deprived group of kittens were provided with the necessary stimuli need for proper growth and development, they began to act as kittens should. After three months of normal exposure to all the things they lacked, they were all at the same point of development as their peers from the first group. By the age of nine months, all the kittens from both groups were perfectly normal. Well socialized and happy!

Your pet can also be properly socialized - even in the later periods of its life. Although studies show that the maximum benefit of training comes in the early stages of its life as a puppy, training can also be very effective even as late as six or seven years old. It also proves that you can teach an old dog new tricks!

These studies also show that a well socialized animal is happier, less destructive to its home environment, and more tolerant of other animals - often even those of a different species, like cats. So take a little extra time with your dog. Ten minutes a day, every day to start. It will pay diividends down the road for you and your pet. And remember, a freindly dog is a good dog! All dogs want to be good...they just need us to show them the way!

ANUAL CITY TAG & RABIES CLINIC

2009-01-19T20:43:00.002-06:00

Every year around this time, the City of Eureka and Dr. Droge and his staff get together and have our annual City Tag & Rabies Clinic. This year will be no different. The Clinic will be held on February 21st, at Memorial Hall, from 9:00AM to 12:00PM.

This is the best time of the year to purchase those annual City tags for your dogs and cats. Yes, I said cats. City Code requires cats have tags as well as dogs. The cost of tags for animals that have been spayed or neutered is $4.00. For animals that have not been spayed or neutered, $30.00. This is really the very best time of the year to get these tags, because after March, there will be a $2.00 penalty fee for every month past March that you wait. So...that $30.00 tag you might have purchased in March, will cost you $42.00 in September for example. So getting them now, can save you later. Also, a dog or cat with tags is much easier to return home in the event they slip out and get picked up.

Dr. Droge will also be offering a discount on his shots as well, although at this time, I do not have information on what it will be. A current rabies vaccination is required for the purchase of City tags. Typically, rabies vaccinations are good for a year, although longer term vaccinations are available. Ask Dr. Droge what is best for you and your pet.

Please be aware that City tags are due every year, in March. If you get a dog in August and get your tags then, they will still need to be renewed in March of the following year. They do not go from August to August, November to November, and so forth.

As a final note, please be aware that every dog or cat is required to have current rabies and City tags if they reside within the City limits. While there is a age limit for the rabies vaccination (generally puppies and kittens under 6 months of age are not required to have rabies shots), there is no such age limit for the City tags. Puppies and kittens are required to have the City tags, regardless of age.

I would like to encourage all pet owners to do the right thing, and get your pets vaccinated and tagged. The fines can be steep if you are caught without them. More importantly, the rabies vaccination is also a public health issue, since household pets can come into contact with rabid squirrels, raccoons, skunks and other critters. Help protect your pets, and your community, and gets those shots and tags while they are the least expensive! Your pets will thank you, and your neighbors will too!

A New Year!

2009-01-12T21:16:00.005-06:00

The year may be new, but - alas - we still have the same old problems. Too many dogs running loose. Too many animals without current rabies vacinations or current City tags. And of course, too many animals without good homes.

Let's all try and make this a better year than 2008. Please be more vigilant with your pets. If you are unsure about the current City Codes regarding the number & types of animals you are allowed, please call me at 750-0302. I would happy to help you figure out what you need to do to avoid getting an unnesscesary citation.

If you have issues regarding the training of your dog, the best food for your pets, or need to know more about the City Tethering Ordinance, please be sure to call me as well.

The annual City Tag & Rabies Clinic will be sponsored again this year, and is currently scheduled to happen in February. It will be at Memorial Hall like it was last year. I will make sure an ad is posted in the paper, and will also annnounce it on the radio. A poster will also placed on the door at City Hall. The actual day and time has not been set yet, but will be decided soon...so check back frequently.

Let's all work together this year and make Eureka a safer and more pet friendly community!

Thanks for your support!

2008-12-13T11:27:00.001-06:00

The micro chip clinic went off very well. While the number of participants was slightly less than those that had initially signed up, we still did well. I would like to extend my sincere thanks to Vicki and John from Alex's House for all of their help and expertise!

For those of you who may have missed this clinic, another one will probably be planned sometime after the first of the year. If you are interested in having the procedure done sooner, please call me during normal business hours, and I will be happy to give you the phone number for Alex's House. Vicki and John said they will be happy to assist anyone interested, at the same low price charged at our clinic. You will just need to take your pet to them. They live near Rosalia, so it is a pretty short drive.

Thanks again to all who came out!

Microchip Clinic, Coming Soon!

2008-11-30T11:09:00.003-06:00

If you haven't already signed up, I would like to encourage everyone who has a dog or cat to get your name on the list for our upcoming Microchip Clinic on the 7th of December.

It will be held at Memorial Hall, from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM. The clinic is being co-sponsored by Alex's House, a new dog rescue facility near Rosalia - and the Community Foundation of Greater Butler County. The Foundation is a public, non-profit 501(c)(3) organization, established in 2001 to assist those individuals and organizations in need, in the community.

The Foundation, in conjunction with Alex's House, has been generous enough to assist the people in Greenwood County with implanting microchips in their pets for the very low cost of $10.00.

Typically, having this procedure done for your pet can cost upwards of $75.00 (including the cost of chip resgistration). Registration in this clinic will be done for free, on site, after the implant procedure is completed. The chips are being provided at a discount price, by a company called 24PetWatch. You can go the the companies website at: www.24petwatch.com to learn more about the company, and the other valuable services they offer.

The microchip is about the size of a grain of rice, and is implanted with a needle & syringe in the fleshy area, between the back of the head and the top of the shoulder blades on the animal. In most cases, the procedure is no more painful than a routine injection. The chip lasts a lifetime, and the registration data base is Nationwide.

I would like to encourage everyone in our area to sign up for this wonderful program. The price is a real bargain, and the peace of mind in knowing that your pet will returned home to you if it should for some reason become lost, is well...priceless.

Please call me at (620)750-0302 to sign up, or if you would like more information!

A Gift Worth Giving!

2008-11-26T17:28:00.003-06:00

No...it's not diamonds! But it is just as valuable! It is the love and laughter that goes with inviting a new dog or cat into your home.

I won't bore you today with statistics. I'm sure most of you have heard them recited over and over again. But did you know that a pet can extend your life? Not to mention that adopting one from a rescue group, or your local animal pound, can definitely extend theirs!

As you look at the pictures posted here today, I ask each and everyone of you to try and look more closely at their faces. Each one of them, at some point in their young life, was loved and wanted. Now, they languish in our local pound, wondering what happened?

Some have been physicaly abused. Some have been abandoned. Some have simply wandered too far away from home, and got lost. But each and every one of them is full of love and hope! They only want to be with someone who will offer them what they most desire: Love and companionship.

So as we gather for this Thanksgiving and Christmas holiday period, let us not forget the forgotten. Let us remember that these lost souls didn't ask to be here. They didn't set about their small lives to be left behind. Once, they were were wanted. Once, they were loved. Once, they entrusted their very survival to their keepers, only to be betrayed. And yet, even now, they harbor no ill will or malice. They just keep wagging their tails, hoping for the day when they will be chasing that ball, getting that belly rub, or giving that face licking!

This year, as you sit pondering a gift that will bring smiles to you and yours for years to come, remember that the most precious gift is not a big screen TV or a diamond ring. It is a life filled with love.

Now that is a gift worth giving!

If life is good - why not share it ?

2008-09-15T21:25:00.002-05:00

October has been designated as Adopt-a-dog-month for the American Humane Society. As you look at the pictures here of the dogs now at our pound, my question for any of you browsing through this site is: If life is good, why not share it with a loving soul in need of a chance at a good life?

The brutal truth is that in shelters and pounds across the country, thousands of wonderful dogs like those shown here have little or no hope of a second chance. Many have been previously abused, most have been neglected in some way, and now - through no fault of their own - they have been simply discarded, like yesterdays old newspaper.

Once wanted because they were cute and cuddly little puppies, they now waste away in a 3x4 foot cage. Their crime? They grew up.

It is hard to find homes for adult dogs. They most often will require special attention and training because of the lack of either they have had perviously. For many people, this is more trouble than they want to deal with.

As an owner of an adopted pound dog - I can only say that is has been worth every last minute of it! To see my dog grow and fully develop her personality has been a pleasure beyond words. It was no harder to train her than it was my pure-bred, and just as much fun! As in life, you get out of something only what you are willing to put into it - and that includes training your pet to be a good family member.

No dog is too old to learn, and with the right amount of love and effort, each of the dogs on this site can be a valued and faithful companion for years to come. So give one of these beautiful and loving animals a second chance at a good life. They deserve it. And remember...compassion isn't something reserved only for two-legged animals!

Just add love!

2008-07-16T22:47:00.003-05:00

Every now and again when I am out with my two dogs, I am complimented on how well behaved they are, or how well they mind. Naturally I am proud of them, even though they refuse to pick up their own toys and....sorry, I digress! The next thing that happens is usually a question regarding training. You know, how do you get them to stop peeing on everything, running away, or chewing up my favorite shoes and the kids toys?

The short answer? Just add love. The training will almost take care of itself. Sounds too simple? Well, maybe a little. But love is an integral part of any training program. If your dog is afraid of you, afraid of the leash, or any number of other things...your task will be a little harder. Maybe even a lot harder, depending on which one of those items I just mentioned scares your dog.

So lets start with a few basic training tips, and maybe even dispel a few dog myths in the process.

1. Myth - If you don't train your dog young, by the time it is 4 years old, it's too late!

Answer: False. Just like there is no date stamped on the bottom of your foot, that says you can't learn a new trade or skill by the time you are twenty, your dogs learning time is also open. Does it become harder? Sometimes. Dogs are like people. They like what they like, and can learn bad habits. They also can become stuck in their old way of doing things. They are products of their environment - just like us.

It is important to try and train your pet early in life. It makes for a happier, more well adjusted dog. Or cat. But if you need to retrain them later, just remember that you might have to un-teach them some of those bad habits you chose to ignore in the past. Kind of like teaching guys to put down the toilet seat when they are fifty, instead of when they are five!

Start slow. Maybe ten or fifteen minutes a day...everyday. Use praise every time they do what you want. And be sure to use a lot of positive physical contact. Petting, rubbing behind their ears, even a good belly rub. You can use treats in the beginning, but be careful. Too much of anything is bad for their health. Soon, just the praise and petting will be enough. Remember, in training your older pet - age is not a factor as much as patience and love. Your dog wants your praise and positive attention more than it wants food.

2. Myth - Collars are the best for training your dog.

Answer: False. I have never been a big fan of collars in the first place. They are usually too tight, or too loose. And they can cause injury to the air passages in a dogs throat...or in rare cases, death by strangulation. I prefer a harness. I have rarely seen a dog slip out of a well adjusted one, and have never heard of a dog being strangled to death by one. More importantly, you actually have better control of the dog with a harness. Pull on a dogs collar with a leash, and you can hear it choke or gasp for air. A dog spinning and jerking around at the end of a leash attached to a collar, can spin itself right out of it, or break it's neck trying. Not so with a harness. I can't even begin to tell you how many dogs I have caught, only to have the owner later tell me it "slipped out" of its collar. Slipped out of its harness? Not so much. Twice in the past two years to be exact. And neither one was properly adjusted.

3. Myth - Dogs that are afraid of things like firecrackers, will always be afraid of them.

Answer: False. Dogs learn from us. If we act like they should be afraid of something, then they will be. Remember that while a dog will feed off the positive energy you emit, they will also feed off the negative as well. In this case, it is the negative re-enforcement we gave them the first time they jumped into our lap, shaking like a leaf, when they heard their first fire-cracker. Remember how you hugged them close and said, "Awwwww....poor little Fluffy!". Bad owner! Bad! You just told them they were right to be afraid! So what would have been the best reaction? None. Just sit there, read your book, sip your drink, and act like you didn't hear a thing. Give them a favorite chewy or toy to distract them if you wish, then go back to what you were doing. Eventually, when they see that you are calm, even in the face of WW III going off outside, they will be more calm as well. Just turn up the TV and ignore it.

4. Myth - Dogs can't really understand what we are saying. All they hear is "Blah, blah, blah!".

Answer: False. Wanna see my two dogs haul butt for the back yard like two felons in a prison break? Just ask them about "Tony, their doggie friend". Ask them if they want to go for a ride, and you best not be standing in front of the door when you do it! Tell them it's time to go to bed, and they are already lying on my pillow before I get there! Trust me, your dog can understand plenty. You just have to teach them, and give them an incentive to learn. Not much point in learning if your never going to get off that chain in the back yard, is there?!

So, here are a few tips.

1. Start early, start late. But train your dog, and it will learn. Use praise, affection, and patience.

2. Be consistent. The words "off" and "down" have two separate meanings in the dictionary, and they should have two separate meanings at home as well. "Off" means to get off...like the couch. "Down" means to lie down, like flat on the ground. If you tell your dog to get down when he jumps on the couch, its a safe bet it will be confused later when you want it to lay down on the floor. And remember that words like down, sit, stay all have matching hand signals. Use them with the words when you train, and one day, all you will need to do is snap your fingers and point to the ground, and down the animal will go. Try that with little Johnnie!

3. Hands are for loving, petting, rubbing. NEVER for punishing! If you have to hit your dog to get it to listen...YOU are doing something wrong, not the dog! The answer to the question, "Why would a dog bite the hand that feeds it?" is simple. Because that hand also was used to hit it. Slap me with a hand often enough, and the next time one comes towards my face...I'd probably bite it too! Even if it was attached to little Johnnie. Think about it.

4. My dog will get fat if I get it fixed.

Answer: False. That's not to say your dog won't get fat. Only that it was not getting it fixed that caused it. Too many snacks, not enough exercise = fat dog. Spay/neuter + plenty of exercise and proper diet = lean, mean barking machine.

5. My dog would rather be outside than inside.

Answer: Hmmmmm...let me think...sleeping in mud, being eaten alive by fleas, ticks and mosquitoes, or sleeping in nice air conditioned house at foot of masters bed, or on his favorite chair. Nope...gonna have to go with "false" on this one too! Your dog may act stupid at times, but trust me. It's just an act! Dogs are companion animals. They have been bred for thousands of years to be by our sides. They are pack animals - and we are its pack. Why does your dog bark all night long, chained to that fine oak tree in the back yard? I dunno...maybe because its lonely?????

Any dog can be a dog to be proud of. They already come equipped to learn anything we want to teach them. All you need to do is just add love!

What Matters Most!

2008-06-24T19:23:00.002-05:00

Life is about choices. We choose every day what matters the most to us, and then either do it, or buy it.

If it's a new car we want or need, we buy it. If it involves making a decision about applying for that new job we want, then we do it...or not. But what about our pets? What decisions do we make with regards to those creatures that often seem to live near us, around us, but in many cases, not necessarily "with" us?

We can choose to be responsible and get the vaccinations they need to be healthy, keep them on the preventive medications they need like heartworm medication or flea control medication, and get those required tags they need to comply with our local laws and regulations...or not.

In the end, I guess it comes down to what matters most to us. A wise old gentleman once told me once, that we as individuals are not so much defined by the choices we make, as we are by the results of those choices, and how those results affect those around us. We can all choose to have a pet. But if as pet owners, we fail to do the things needed to ensure the health and safety of those pets, what does that say about us as individuals? And if pet ownership is a "right", then you should lose it when you abuse or neglect your animals, just as surely as you would lose that license when you drive drunk.

Most reponsible people I know, do the things we might expect them to do. They make sure they have insurance for their automobiles, they take their children to the doctor for their annual vaccinations, they go to their jobs on time and they pay their taxes when required to do so. And, if they own a dog or cat, they make sure their animal is properly vaccinated, tagged, and fed and watered, and they make sure they keep them properly restrained at all times.

Most people who have pets, think of them as a loved and valued member of their family. They show them love, respect, and they understand that for them to grow and realize their full potential, they must be nurtured, just as they would nurture their human children.

Many people however - far too many to be honest - do not understand, or even care about these things. To these people, a dog or cat is just a "thing". A possession much like a chair or one of those many old beat up cars in their yard or drive-way. Their animals are simply one of many things they will own, and not care for.

These people act as though they are perplexed by the constant needs of their pets, and they are often angry and rebellious towards anyone who tries to tell them what is best for their pets. They think it is okay to let their animals run rampant through their neighbors yards, cross busy streets and highways at risk of death, or even let them fend for themselves if they are hungry. And medical care or proper tags? They have no health insurance themselves, and they get by, right? Given the choice between that Playstation 3 or those needed shots...Playstation wins everytime. City tags versus that cable TV? What do you think! And dog or cat food verus that six-pack of beer or pizza? Please! Maybe you know people like this. It's pretty obvious what matters most in their lives...and more often than not, it's not their pets.

No, I don't expect people to choose between the doctor for their kids, or the vet for their dog. I don't expect people to choose between food for their families, or their dog. I know what I am about to say may not be politically correct, or popular with some - but if you are in a position where these choices are ones you face on a daily or weekly basis, then you should not have pets in the first place. Sure, you can choose to have five dogs and three cats with two litters on the way...but if you can't afford to properly care for them, why would you? Do you really think you are doing them a favor by letting them die slowly of thirst and/or starvation, or being eaten alive by fleas or ticks?

Take a look at that water bowl next to the tree your dog is chained to. Is the water (assuming there IS water in the bowl) black and/or moldy looking? Does it have yard debris, bugs or both floating in it? Would you drink it? No? Then why do you think it's okay for your dog to drink it! Does you dog have to walk, stand and sleep in it's own feces? When it rains, does your dog have a dry and mud free place to stand or lie, or does it have to jump on top of it's dog house to try and stay dry - assuming of course it is lucky enough to even have a dog house! Would you like to live under those conditions??? No? Then why is it okay to allow a beloved member of your family to live like that?!

Animals are not old furniture. They are not expendable commodities that you can choose to care for or not, depending on how you feel or how big your check might be this month. Having a bad day? Talk to a friend or the pastor at your church. Don't kick your kitten in the head, or beat your dog with a broom handle. Can't afford to buy groceries? You can get help with that. Can't afford that dog or cat food? Turning your pets loose on the neighborhood garbage cans is not an acceptable solution.

So if you are one of those people that feel your pet is a valued and loved member of your family, I and other responsible pet owners applaud your sacrifice and your devotion. If you are one of those other people who can't understand why your dog barks all night while chained to a tree; who can never quite figure out why they won't come when you call them...even though your idea of love is the back of your hand instead of the palm of it; who thinks that somehow you are being picked on because your dog can't run free through the city while others obey the city laws; who can't afford food or medical care for your pet, but can afford pizza, Playstation or X-Box...then do everyone a favor - and all the dogs and cats looking for a home as well. Don't get a pet if you don't already have one. And if you do have have one...or two, three or four as many people in this latter category seem to have - please...find them a good, loving home and give them a real chance at a decent life!

For in the final analysis, whether you have two legs or four, being loved and properly cared for is, and has always been, what matters most!

Welcome to the Wild Kingdom!

2008-06-11T23:02:00.002-05:00

Ok…maybe it’s not quite that bad, but we do live in a rural area, and as the weather warms up, we will begin to see more and more of those woodsy critters taking shortcuts through our yards. And our flower gardens!

It is to be expected that some of these encounters with our furry neighbors will be less than pleasant. Which brings me to the point of this article. This will be the first of a three part discussion on animals in our community, both wild and domestic. Hopefully, you the reader will be able to learn something you didn’t know, and find something useful should you come into close quarters with a free-ranging skunk at 9:00 in the morning. So sit back, grab that cup of coffee or herbal tea, and read on.

Just for the record, that little item I just mentioned about the skunk wandering around at 9:00 in the morning, just happened the other day. Last year, I saw two skunks meandering about during daylight hours – generally not a good sign – and four raccoons, also wandering around during daylight hours. All shared one common behavioral trait. They walked as though they were drunk, and appeared to have trouble with their balance when they sat down. A few even fell over. While it was obvious they were sick, what they were sick from was not so obvious.

So here are a few general tips for those who may have a chance encounter with a woodland friend. Whether you are planting flowers in your garden, or taking a short hike through the woods…if you should encounter a skunk during daylight hours behaving erratically, give it a wide berth. If you live within the city limits, call Animal Control. If you are in the great outdoors, head back the way you came and report it to the local Fish & Game Warden.

Now, that is not to say that all skunks you might see during daylight hours are ill. Often, they may just be looking for a new place to hole up, having been driven from their old den by noisy lawn mowers, weed eaters or back-hoes. Also, if we have just had a particularly heavy rainfall, they may just be looking for a dryer place to stay. Generally speaking however, skunks are nocturnal creatures that usually come out at dusk to forage for food, mate and stink up the neighborhood.

Believe it or not, back in the 1800’s, skunks were actually hunted for their fur…which may account for why there were so many single men in those days! Once believed to be a member of the weasel family, more recent genetic investigations have led taxonomists to group all North American skunks and Asian stink badgers into their own separate family.

Skunks are true omnivorous mammals. When they feed at night, they will eat insects, rodents, frogs, crayfish, bird eggs and nestlings, and carrion. They will also eat berries, fruit and other plant material…like those beautiful roses you’ve been cultivating! As the weather and seasonal changes impact food availability, skunks will adapt their feeding habits accordingly. Generally speaking, skunks are opportunistic foragers that will eat just about anything they can find or catch. Including that cat or dog food you left out for Fluffy and Fido.

Skunks carry a multitude of diseases, including rabies and canine distemper, which is why you should always contact your local Animal Control Officer should you observe one wandering around your yard at 9:00 AM.

To wrap up the discussion on skunks, here are the answers to a few of the most frequently asked questions regarding skunks:

1. I think I may have a skunk under my house, what should I do?
Answer: Sprinkle a layer of flour by the suspected entrance, and check it during the night for foot prints leaving the hole. Once you see the prints, you can block off the hole to keep it from getting back in. Sprinkle a large amount of moth-balls just inside the entrance before you seal it up, and another generous layer around the outside of the entrance. While not 100% effective, most skunks hate the smell of them, and they usually work 90% of the time.

2. I think a skunk sprayed the side of my house. How do I get rid of the smell?
Answer: If you or your dog are sprayed, you can always try the old fashioned tomato juice bath. That seems to work most of the time for smaller, more confined items like pets and people. Another home remedy that has been reported to be very effective is as follows:

1 quart 3% hydrogen peroxide
1/4 cup baking soda
1 teaspoon liquid soap

Once the hydrogen peroxide is mixed with the baking soda, the mixture is unstable and generates oxygen, and thus cannot be bottled or stored. Apparently, oxidation changes the chemical composition of skunk scent so that it no longer smells. When the fresh mixture is applied to items contaminated by skunk odor, the smell diminishes quickly. Any leftover mixture should be diluted several fold with water and poured down the drain. Hydrogen peroxide mixtures can be used safely on pets and people as well as on clothing and furniture. Rinse pets thoroughly with water after treatment.

3. Can I trap a skunk?
Answer: Trapping a skunk is not hard. It’s what to do with it once it has been
trapped that is the problem. If you have a skunk in a regular open mesh trap, it
may be hard to get close enough to pick it up without risking being sprayed. I recommend an enclosed trap, specifically designed to trap skunks. Contact your
local Animal Control Officer and ask for help.

Ok, so enough about skunks. Let’s talk briefly about Raccoons. Typically, Raccoons breed in February and March, but matings may occur from December through June. Raccoons have a large territorial range, and males tend to be especially aggressive during mating season.

The Raccoon diet is extremely diverse. They will eat fruit, berries, grain, eggs, poultry, vegetables, nuts, most insects, rodents, carrion garbage and pet food. Raccoons will den up in hollow trees, drain pipes, in unoccupied buildings, under decks and storage buildings, brush piles and abandoned burrows.

Raccoons can cause substantial damage (particularly to attics and roofs), lawns, fruit trees, garbage cans and trash containers. Raccoons are opportunistic foragers, and will take the easiest meal they can get. They are quite attracted to pet food left outdoors, and will attack pets to get it.

Raccoons are known to carry a wide variety of diseases, including canine distemper, rabies, encephalitis, histoplasmosis, mange, and tuberculosis to name a few. Raccoons also carry a roundworm often referred to as “Raccoon Roundworm”, otherwise known as Baylisascaris. This type of parasite is known as a “Zoonotic” parasite, meaning it not only readily transfers between different species of animals, but also from animals to people. The eggs of this parasite are readily found in the feces or scat of the Raccoon. The eggs are resistant to most environmental conditions, and with adequate moisture, can survive in the ground for years. Raccoon feces usually are dark and tubular, have a pungent odor (usually worse than dog or cat feces), and often contains undigested seeds or other food items.

It is recommended that homeowners police their yards regularly for all types of animal remains, especially if you have pets of your own. Often, dogs are attracted to the left behind Raccoon remains because of the undigested materials it may contain, and this is where they can become infected with Raccoon roundworm. Generally, Raccoons are infested with ticks and fleas, which are known transmitters of many of the illnesses previously mentioned.

At this point, many people might be thinking that those ugly Opossums are dirtier than the Raccoons…but they would be wrong! Opossums groom themselves like cats, and are considered to be quite clean…as far as woodland creatures go. Here are a few other interesting Opossum facts:

1. They are exceptionally non-aggressive and non-destructive. They will not harm people or pets.

2. They present far less of a health risk than do dogs or cats. Opossums are more immune to many diseases than other animals, and are far less likely to carry rabies.

3. They are beneficial to the environment because they eat insect pests, snails and slugs.

4. Opossums have a remarkable resistance to poisonous snake bites (Rattlesnakes, Cottonmouth, Russell’s Viper, and Asiatic Cobra to name a few). None of the Opossums tested showed any effects from these snake bites, other than fang punctures.

5. They are one of the few animals that regularly prey on shrews and moles.

6. Adult Opossums have 52 teeth, more than any other mammal in North America.

7. Contrary to what you may have heard, Opossums do not turn over garbage cans. They also do not dig holes or destroy gardens and shrubs.

Finally, let’s not forget that digging machine, the Armadillo. If you are suffering garden destruction on a biblical scale…it’s probably an Armadillo. Armadillos are not blind, but have very poor eyesight. Their diet consists mainly of grubs, insects and other invertebrates. Some species feed mainly on ants. In general, it is difficult to trap an Armadillo in a regular mesh or wire trap. As mentioned, their eyesight is quite poor, and they have trouble seeing the opening of the trap. A V-shaped funnel made from wood will help them find their way into the trap, if it is baited properly. They do not eat fruit or veggies, and are not attracted to cat or dog food. A small plate of worms & grubs will do just fine! Also, they cannot stand the feel of that wire cage under their feet. They have very long claws, and they tend to get stuck in the open spaces of the wire. If you wish to use a conventional cat trap, cut a small piece of cardboard that will fit in the space before the pressure plate of the trap. Once in, providing the cardboard does not interfere with the pressure plate, the cat trap will work just fine.

Wow! Who knew this rural country living would be so much fun! Skunks and raccoons and opossums, oh my! Oh, and don’t forget the snakes!

What’s that Animal Control fellow’s number again?

It's time to show our gratitude!

2008-05-15T11:57:00.002-05:00

Typically, I tend to send reminders to the citizens in our community about caring for their pets, and to try and remind my fellow pet owners to be be a little more vigilant regarding the wanderings of those pets.

Today however, I would just like to take a few moments for another purpose. I would like to speak for a little while about those that work behind the scenes, to make the lives of those animals I do wind up taking in to the pound a lot easier.

There are many, many wonderful organizations out there, whose sole purpose is to provide love and homes for the less fortunate animals in our midst. Those animals that have been discarded like an old tire, abused, starved and generally cast aside for whatever reason. Without these organizations, the pain, loneliness and suffering these unfortunate animals go through would be mind-boggling. The one I would like to focus on, is the Lifeline Animal Placement & Protection Organization (LAPP for short), out of Wichita, Kansas.

Perhaps some of my more ardent readers may remember me mentioning how during my first year in this job, I had to put down over two hundred dogs and cats that I simply could not find either the old owners for, or even find new owners for. That is two hundred animals in a town whose population runs less than three thousand. It kept me awake at night, more often than not, trying to figure out how and where I could find an alternative solution to this vexing problem.

As a community, we should all be concerned about the message it sends when we have so many lost and discarded animals in a town this size. Really, whether you own a pet or not, it affects us all. Stray and wandering animals are often left to the mercy of speeding vehicles, angry home owners who often vocalize their dislike of trespassing pets to the extent of wanting to shoot them, and also to other predatory animals. Animals that are dicarded and left to fend for themselves often contract diseases, which they can then pass on to our house pets via feces or perhaps even a bite. In some cases, they might even contract rabies, which they can also pass on to our household pets or our children.

The City of Eureka has a Animal Pound. We are not an Animal Shelter. The difference lies not only in the policies that govern the animals we can pick up, but also the type care the animals might recieve once they are picked up. I am essentially a one-man operation. I feed, clean & care for all the animals I have in the pound by myself. A Shelter on the other hand, might have several people working there, one of whom may be an in house Vet. In many cases, a Shelter has a vet on call 24/7 if they do not have one on staff.

Many Shelters are "No Kill" Shelters. They will keep an animal as long as it takes to find them either a foster home until a more permanent placement can be found, or a new family right away. Animal Shelters are most often "not for profit" organizations, which means they survive on grants from larger organizations like the American Humane Society, the ASPCA and private donations. The Eureka Pound however has very specific limits regarding the amount of time we should keep an animal before it is either returned to the owner, or adopted out. If either of these options fail, euthanization has been our only other option.

Until the wonderful people at LAPP came along that is.

LAPP is a "No Kill" Shelter. I had been calling around, looking for other options last year, when a contact at the Kansas Humane Society in Wichita told me about Patricia "Pat" Morriss, and her wonderful organization. For the past 8-10 months - honestly I've lost track - LAPP has sent numerous volunteers to our fair city to take virtually every adoptable animal we have had. Cats, dogs, puppies, and kittens. Pregnant and old, they have taken them and found them homes with loving families. In several cases, they even arranged to send dogs to places where they recieved much needed Vet care before final placement. And to make what this organization has done for our community even more special - as if what they have done wasn't enough already - in special cases, they have even been kind enough to help out the less fortunate in our community who for health and financial reasons weren't able to keep their beloved pets, by making special trips to take their pets for placement in new homes as well.

Since LAPP has started coming to Eureka, I have only had to euthanize two dogs. Both were animals that I picked up that had severe health issues where euthanization was the only option to stop their suffering. Well over 60 animals have gone through LAPP to new homes. Some animals have gone to Colorado where many cities have a shortage of adoptable pets. In the case of many purebreds, they have gone on to animal rescue groups that handle those special breeds, like German Shorthair Pointers or Austrailian Shepherds. I have frequently recieved e-mails with the pictures of many of the dogs once residents of our Eureka Pound, now lying around their new homes, relishing the love and attention of their new families.

And I can't help smiling. As you should. Smile because you know that without the help and concern of organizations like LAPP in general, and LAPP in particular, most probably all of those animals would no longer be with us. They would have been doomed to an all but too brief existence, thanks to the carelessness or callousness of their former owners. Smile because thanks to LAPP, these loving, beautiful animals now have a bright & loving future, instead of a terminal existence.

So, in closing let me say that we all, pet owners & non-pet owners alike, owe a much deserved debt of gratitude to LAPP and it's many volunteers, who have made the future existence of these animals possible. And the next time you are thinking it might be nice to donate a few dollars to a worthy cause, think of the animals LAPP has taken from us...for us...and give back what you can to help them keep doing it, not just for us, for all the other Eureka-like communities out there who need their help and support.

Thank you LAPP! And God bless you every one!

THE DOG DAYS OF SUMMER!

2008-04-01T11:56:00.004-05:00

Ahhhhh! Sunshine! Gentle breezes, sultry summer evenings, punctuated only by the sound of....yikes! Barking dogs! And they are chasing other barking dogs through your freshly manicured lawn, disturbing your summer Karma! What the %$#&!

Yep...summer is just around the corner. And at the risk of sounding like a broken record, there are too many dogs (and cats) running loose around town. Making matters worse, it is already "the season" for many of the female dogs in town, and their would-be suitors are already beginning to make themselves known. So, in the interest of community relations, and because there is nothing I like better than having to repeat myself over & over...here are a few things you should know.

1. If you have a dog that has not been fixed...you should probably take care of that very soon. Not only will it be cheaper for you when it comes time to get those new tags, but it will also keep your male dogs closer to home, and eliminate the visitors your female dog gets in the wee hours of the morning. It is also better for your pets health if they are fixed. Hey...don't believe me? Ask your vet!

2. All dogs residing in the city limits of Eureka are required to have city tags. No exceptions. You are required to have a license for your car, even if it's broke and you can't drive it. Fido is required to have tags, even if he stays inside most of the time. In fact, the City Code for this reads..."No person shall own, keep or harbor any dog or dogs, cat or cats, regardless of age, within the city until he or she have paid the annual city taxes hereafter provided and procure from the city clerk a dog tag or cat tag for the current year for each such dog or cat." And just so you know, the tags for your un-neutered dog or cat, $30.00. If your dog or cat has been neutered....$4.00. And in order to get those city tags, your pets must also have current proof of rabies vaccinations.

3. This past Friday, I just released a dog that had been in quarantine for 10 days, because it came out of the yard, chased a young boy, and bit him. It was not current on its rabies shots, thus the need to be quarantined. At the risk of overstating the obvious, much of this could have been avoided simply by having the dog current on its shots, and by making sure the dog was properly restrained. No one wants to think their dog is capable or likely to be mean to someone. The truth, however, is that all dogs have the ability to be aggressive and territorial. That is why we have leash laws, and laws regarding dogs running at large...to protect us - and them - from this type of situation ever happening in the first place. So, do yourself...and your pet...a favor. Get those shots current, and keep them that way. It's not just the law, it's good common sense. If your dog does get loose - or is allowed to roam loose - and it bites someone, and then they have to go through that nasty series of painful rabies shots...well, it's a very good possibility you have just opened yourself up for a very expensive law suit. The last such lawsuit I read about from Minnesota, cost the owner $75,000. It cost the dog it's life. Enough said? Let's hope so!

4. So...what exactly IS running at large? Basically, it is allowing your dog to run free, anywhere within the city limits, where it is not under the owners direct control and supervision. And no, letting it run loose in your own yard to go potty is not ok, unless you are standing right there with it while it does its business. Let me emphasize this point! You cannot just open the door and let Fido run loose in your own yard, unless you are right there to supervise it, and the dog is under your direct control. Oh, and just so you know...if you chain or tether your dog in an area where it is within range of a public thoroughfare...like a sidewalk...it is still deemed to be "at-large". Your animal cannot be tied up in any area where it can reach people who are walking down the street, or down a sidewalk. If you want your dog to run free, move to the country, or fence in your yard. Otherwise, be a good neighbor, and a responsible pet owner, and keep Fido under control.

5. Its been a tough week. You are sooooo looking forward to sleeping in on Saturday. Then out of nowhere, promptly at the break of dawn, your slumber is disturbed by the noises of your neighbors roosters! Or the cackling of their chickens running around your yard. Running from your cat, or someone elses loose dog. Can't happen here in Eureka you say? Foolish child! Not only can it, but it has since I've been here...a little over two years. As a matter of fact, I know someone right now who has two turkeys in a pen in their front yard. Can you say, romper-room no-no? The City Code says, ""It shall be unlawful for any person to keep or maintain any fowl (i.e. chickens, ducks, geese, guineas, turkeys, etc.) within the city limits." 2-102 (b). Unless you have a proper 4-H permit. If you need one of those, contact the City Clerk in City Hall. Otherwise, it's back to the country for your birds.

6. If you are a dog owner, there is a City Ordinance you should make yourself familiar with. It is Ordinance No. 4086, and it deals with animal restraint, and animal confinement. If you keep your pet outside, you really need to get a copy and read it. It was passed & became effective last May. It will be enforced this year. You can get a copy either by calling City Hall, 583-6511, or by calling the City Administrators office at 584-6140. Get a copy now, and save yourself some frustration later!

7. Now I know not everyone is all that familiar with every breed of dog. Especially now in an age where so many dogs are mixed breeds, like Jack Russells and Dachsunds. I even saw a Blue-heeler/Dachsund mix today. Cute little guy, mottled in color, with one blue eye. But it is hard to miss the fact that a dog is a pit bull, or has a mix of pit bull in them. In either case, they are not allowed within the city limits of Eureka. The City Code says in a nuttshell, that you cannot have a pit bull, or any mix of pit bull or any of the pit bull or the bull terrier breeds, including American Stafforshire Terriers, Bull Terriers, Staffordshire Bull Terriers. The fines are heavy, and the dog may be confiscated. So, if you have any doubt about the dogs ancestry, it might be best to pick one you are more certain about.

8. Lastly for today, I'd like to discuss something called "Right Of Entry". Basically, this is a clause written into the City Code, which gives the Animal Control Officer and the Code Enforcement Officer - thats me - the right to enter upon private property to enforce the codes of the city. It reads as follows:

Chapter 2, article 2-208: "The impounding officer shall have the right of entry upon any private unenclosed lots or lands for the purpose of collecting any animal whose presence thereupon is a violation of this article. It shall be unlawful for any person to interfere with the impounding officer in exercise of this right."

That means if Fido gets loose, and then runs home after I see it and chase it, and then sits on the porch, I can come up on the porch and impound the animal if I deem it necessary. It also means I can come into a yard and check on the welfare and proper tagging of any animal found in said yard. So, if a neighbor tells you I came into your yard while you were gone, and took a peek at Fidos collar to see if it had the proper tags, please do not call the office and scream at my boss about me trespassing on your property. It might be helpful to remember that had your pet not been breaking the law by running loose to begin with...even if it did come home, or had it been properly tagged in the first place...my visit would not have even been necessary. It might not be particularly helpful to stand in front of the Judge and accuse me of breaking the trespass law, when the city laws that you broke prompted my visit to begin with! I'm just sayin'!

So, to wrap up, let me make one final point. It is NEVER ok to beat your dog with a BBQ fork, crowbar, rake handle, shovel, ball peen hammer or anything else that may cause serious injury or even death. In the State of Kansas, that is called animal cruelty and abuse, and that is now a felony. Yes, dogs can be irritating at times. They can be stubborn, and often will not come when you call them. Often it is because they know they will be beaten with one of the above mentioned items if they do come, and often, it is because they have been chained up and neglected for so long, they hardly even KNOW their names, let alone have any incentive to come back to a chain around a tree! If your dog is hard to handle, maybe I can help. If they get loose, maybe I can help there too! It's worth a call at any rate, and could save you a lot of extra heart-ache. It's good to call the local radio station, and let people know your dog is missing. They perform a wonderful public service by announcing it, and should be commended for doing so! But they do not pick up your dog. I do. So after you call them, please, call me too! I might already have your dog. I am always willing to help you look for it! My number is 750-0302. Write it down. You might be glad you did! And Fido will thank you too!

A night in the pound, $75.00 or more. A night at home with his human family who love him...priceless!

COULD IT BE?

2008-03-12T08:18:00.003-05:00

That bright orb in the sky...it almost looks like...why yes! The Sun! It looks like the Sun! It's been so long, I almost forgot!

One thing is for certain, our fuzzy friends haven't, and they are out to enjoy it. Which means we need to keep a closer eye on them! Just a friendly reminder...keep those doggies under your watchful eye! Just turning them out to roam free while they take a bathroom break, can wind up being a very expensive proposition for you, and a very uncomfortable one for your pet.

I cannot emphasize enough how much tougher the enforcement of the animal codes will be this year. Please...for the sake of your pet, and your finances...keep those wandering four-legged friends under close supervision.

New Year - Same Old Problem!

2008-02-28T00:39:00.002-06:00

At the risk of sounding too negative, it seems at first blush that the New Year is so far, not that new at all....at least as far as the dog situation goes. Everyday, as I drive around town, I see dogs, dogs, dogs running loose.

And to add insult to injury, the vast majority of them not only have collars, but they have collars without tags. Rottweiler, Border Collie, Pointer. These are not mutts. We are talking potentially high dollar dogs here. So....whats up dog owners?

Now I understand that sometimes, things happen, and Fido will take off. But why anyone would go through all the trouble of buying an expensive dog, outfitting it with a collar, and then never bother to call once it goes missing remains a mystery to me.

Is a dogs life so worthless, that the responsible party can't even pick up a phone to report it missing, or check to see if it has been picked up? I mean, if you care so little about it...why even get it in the first place?

Well, I understand that we can't legislate common decency and morality. Too bad, because sometimes I can't help but think it would be a good thing. You know, I once heard somewhere that you can tell the measure of a society by the way we treat our animals.

Considering the number of dogs we run through our pound with a population of only around 2900 people or so...you can't help but wonder what that says about us!

THANK YOU!

2008-02-25T08:31:00.002-06:00

Just a special thank you to all who participated in the City Tag & Rabies Clinic we held on the 16th of February. And a special thanks to Dr. Droge and his staff for their participation as well. Obviously, having your pets tagged and vaccinated is important. The weather was nasty, and the roads were not much better, but if you braved it all to have your pet taken care of, you deserve a special thanks from all of us!

For those of you who missed us, just a reminder that it is vital you have your pets tagged and vaccinated. This year, Animal Control will be a little more proactive in checking for tags. So if you keep your dog chained up outside, please don't be surprised if I stop by to check their status.

Also, as a reminder, there is a new ordinance in effect for the tethering of your pets outside that will start to be enforced when the weather clears up. If you need a copy of this ordinace, please contact Animal Control and request a copy be mailed to you. Or, you can stop by where you pay your water bill, and request a copy there as well.

Finally, just a friendly reminder that there is an ordinance regarding cats as well. If you have a cat, they must also be tagged & vaccinated. If you allow your cat to run loose, it may be trapped along with many of the wild cats I trap every week. Without proper ID, I have no way of knowing a feral cat from a domesticated one, as a general rule. There are also many cat related diseases that your friendly tabby can contract from it's wilder friends if allowed to run loose, so please bear this in mind when considering allowing your cat to roam freely. Animal Control will be much more active this year in going after cats running at large, so please be advised, and act accordingly.

Dogs, dogs dogs....

2008-01-30T21:08:00.000-06:00

"They're everywhere, they're everywhere!!!" Yep...I'm talking about dogs. I really shouldn't be...they are supposed to be restrained at home, instead of out wandering the neighborhood...but...you guessed it! No matter where I have gone for the past week, it's been a dog day afternoon!

I know, I know, that's why they pay me the big bucks. But frankly, I would be ok with being put of the "chase-your-loose-doggie" business. Really! I could take up needlepoint, work a few crossword puzzles...maybe even eat a few dozen doughnuts!

Now I know that sometimes, things happen, and Fido runs crazy throughout the neighborhood. But most of the dogs I have been chasing - and catching - lately, seem to be just running loose with little or no concern by the owners. How do I know that? Maybe because even though they have collars and are dragging six feet of chain behind them, no one ever bothers to call to see if they have been picked up. Not one call. Go figure!

So, in the hope that this message will be read by someone who still cares about their pets, please take note. If your dog gets loose, call me right away. I will help you find it if I can. It may even be that I have already found it, but because it was not properly tagged, I could not find it's home to return it. Hint, hint!

So, tag your pets. Please! It is the very best way to ensure they get home safely! The annual City Tag event will be coming up on February 16th, at Memorial Hall, from 9:00 AM to 12:00 noon. You can get those city tags and the required rabies shots all in one quick trip!

And please, if you have a dog that is not fixed, get it done as soon as you possibly can! It will help your pet live longer, stay closer to home, and be much easier on the budget when it's time to get those annual city tags. A mere $4.00 versus $30.00!

Lets work together this year to keep more dogs at home, and fewer at the City Pound. I like doughnuts! Really!

Brrrrrr!

2008-01-23T11:42:00.000-06:00

Well, it's official! It's cold outside!!! I know this because of the thermometer hanging on the wall next to my Rocket Science Degree!

So, not that most of you need any reminding, let me play "mother hen" and remind everyone anyway that if you have a pet outdoors, PLEASE be sure they are set up with a warm environment for the weather conditions.

Just a few helpfull hints:

1. If you are using hay or straw for the dog house, check it every couple of days. Moisture can and will accumulate in the bedding, and it may need to be turned or changed if it gets wet. Not only that, but most pets like to "spread it around" a little bit, so they may not have as much in their dog house as they now do outside their dog house!

2. Check those water bowls everyday. It's supposed to get down to 12 degrees tonight, so you can be sure that water will freeze. And unless there is direct sunlight on the bowl during the day, it may not defrost enough to provide potable drinking water.

3. Be aware that if you put out canned food for you dog, it will freeze too. I know most people use dry, but that food can form ice crystals as well, and become soggy later as it thaws.

4. And finally, please be cautious about using creative means to warm your doggies house. Placing an unprotected light bulb attached to an extension cord inside the dog house, can be very hazardous to your dogs health. Not only can they be electrocuted if they chew through the cord, but they can be badly burned if they get too close to the hot bulb. Seems like common sense, I know...but if I mention it here, it's because it has already been tried by someone. Really!

Also, heating pads and those small lap-style electric blankets are just as dangerous. Really, if it is so cold that you think you need to try these things, then maybe it's cold enough to bring the pet indoors for a day or so!

Lastly, just a friendly reminder that we have our annual City Tag & Rabies Clinc at Memorial Hall coming up soon. This year it will be held on February 16th (Saturday), from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM. Dr. Droge and his staff will also be there to provide any shots your pet might need as well. Your dog or cat will need a current rabies shot to get their City tags...and yes, cats are required to have tags as well!

Tags for dogs that have NOT been fixed will be $30.00, with tags for NON fixed cats running $20.00. If your pet HAS been spayed or neutered, their tags will only cost $4.00. This will be the cheapest time of the year to get your tags if your pet has not been spayed or neutered. Each month after this clinic, a late fee will be assessed, so by August, those tags could be a little pricey! So get them now, and be ahead of the game!

PLEASE...WATCH YOUR PETS!

2007-12-28T11:02:00.000-06:00

Yesterday I had to impound two dogs. They were running at large, and had attacked a stray cat and killed it. There is still another pair of dogs out there that attacked a cat, and injured it badly enough it had to be euthanized.

The issue of them running at large to begin with aside, there is the issue of animals attacking and killing other animals which can never be condoned, regardless of whether the victims are stray or not.

The first problem is that we have far too many people who still feel it is ok to let Fido out to run around unsupervised. It's not. Today a stray cat, tomorrow a small dog...or a child running around in their own yard. We all would like to believe our pets are not capable of such things...but the reality is always a little more tragic.

The second problem is that many dogs are not being properly socialized, with people and with other animals. The end result is often tragic, not only for the victim of the attack, but for the attacking pet as well. Even more tragic is that this could all be prevented in the first place.

A new year is just around the corner. My hope is that all pet owners will realize the potential difficulties that can arise from not watching your pets when they are outside. All dogs and cats that reside within the city limits of Eureka are required to have current City tags and Rabies tags. All pets outdoors are required to be properly restrained, either on a lead or inside a fenced enclosure, unless they are under the direct control of the owner in their front yard. If you take you dog for a walk, it must be on a leash.

There will be a change this upcoming year, making violations of these ordinances even more costly for the owner than they are now. So please, watch your pets when they are outdoors. It is never permissible to just open the door & let them roam free to "do their business", while you busy yourself with checking your mail or fixing that cup of coffee. The excuse of " I just let them out for a minute..." will not help if your dog is picked up for running at large, especially if they injured or killed another animal while doing so. For those pet owners who feel so inclined, they may even choose to pursue legal avenues against irresponisible pet owners who have pets that attack & kill other beloved pets. And if these animals attack a person, a lawsuit is almost a certainty.

So make a New Years Resolution to spend more time with your dogs this year, and get them properly trained & socialized. Your pets will be better for the effort, and the community as a whole will be much safer too! And get those tags! That way if by some fluke of circumstance, your pet should escape its enclosure, we can make sure they get home as soon as possible. Let's work together in this New Year to make our community more pet responsible. Everyone will benefit from the effort!

START PLANNING NOW!

2007-12-13T22:05:00.000-06:00

Well, it is a little early, but I thought I would just get a jump on it this year. What am I referring to? The annual Rabies Clinic we hold every year at Memorial Hall.

This coming new year it will be in February, on the 16th...that's a Saturday...from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM. As usual, we will be selling the City Tags for your dogs and cats(proof of rabies vaccination required). And as luck would have it, our local Vet staff will also be on hand to give Fido & Fluffy all the shots they need as well.

I do want to emphasize one point. If you wish to get City tags for your pet - and I would hope you would - this would be the very best time to do it. This will be the time when tags for your un-spayed or neutered pet will be the least expensive. After this point, there will be a late fee assessed each month throughout the rest of the year, and that could make it quite a bit more expensive later in the year if your pet should be picked up for some reason.

Tags for animals that have been fixed will be approximately $4.00, with tags for animals that have not been fixed at approximately $24.00. Later in the year, these same tags could run double that...so plan ahead now, and get them while they are at the best price. Also, as an added incentive, every effort will be made to return pets that are properly tagged home, before they are taken to the pound. You may still incur a ticket for your pet running at large depending on the circumstances, but the savings might make the difference between being able to afford to bring your pet home from the pound or not.

So be sure to mark this date on your calendar. You & your pet will be glad you did!

ARE YOU READY FOR WINTER?

2007-12-04T22:41:00.000-06:00

Yep...Ole' Man Winter will soon be upon us. Are you ready yet? Got those ear muffs and mittens handy? How about that warm fuzzy blanket to curl up with in front of that roaring fire place?

I only ask, because the odds are pretty good there are a lot of pooches out there without the benefit of even a decent dog house for the winter... let alone a fuzzy blanket to curl up with.

Which brings me to my Christmas wish for this year. Dog houses for all that need them. There are many people - maybe you even know one or two - that have a dog outside, and they really need a dog house, but just can't afford one for whatever reason.

My sense is, we can always argue the other 11 months of the year over whether or not someone should even have a pet they cannot afford to provide for...and that includes shelter. But this month, in the spirit of the Christmas season, let us just help those who for whatever reason, cannot help themselves...or their dogs. If you have the means to do so, help a neighbor, or a friend, or your local shelter. If you have an old Igloo style dog house that is no longer needed, donate it to one of the above mentioned entities. Or if you can afford it, maybe buy one for someones pet, and give Fido a Christmas to remember too!

If you don't know someone who needs one, you may donate one to your local shelter. If they are like me, they have a short list of people who have requested one, or who we know could use one, as a function of our daily travels at work. I can assure you, if you choose to donate one to our shelter, there are several needy families & pets that would be very grateful.

I am quite sure Santa will be very happy with you! I know the doggies will be too!

BE SURE ABOUT THIS GIFT!

2007-11-27T21:02:00.000-06:00

At the risk of sounding like Scrooge before this Christmas Holiday, just a few thoughts if a dog or cat might be on someones "Wish List" for Santa.

As you can see on this site, I have a pound full of beautiful dogs...all of whom I would love to see in new home. But unlike that toy your child got two of, or that sweater that doesn't fit...there is a no return policy on the lives of these animals.

Each one of these wonderful animals has a very distinctive personality. Yes...personality. Because unlike that fuzzy sweater, these fuzzy critters have feelings, emotions, fears and needs...just like us. Most of them have been already been abandoned once. Once, all of these animals had a real home. Now, they just have each other...and of course me. But before you decide to take one of them, or some other little puppy or kitten home for Christmas, please take a moment and be sure of the following:

1. It is a good fit for the home? We all have different life-styles. Some of us are couch potatoes. Some of us are very active and always on the go. How will your new family member fit in to your schedule? Will it have a play-mate to keep it company when you are gone? Will it be to big , too small, shed too much or bark too much? Only you can tell, but you need to have it figured out before you take it home...not after it doesn't work out. Many people spend more time researching the next pair of shoes they will buy, than the animal that will live in their home for the next ten to fifteen years. For it's sake...and yours...be sure it's a good match.

2. Can you afford it? Shots, tags, food, dog houses, collars and toys. It adds up, just like with real children. Many people do not realize how expensive it can be to own a pet. A good quality dog or cat food is not cheap. And if the pet gets sick, just like with our two-legged children, those doctor bills can add up... fast! There are pet insurance policys for your pet, and they can be a very good investment. But many people these days cannot afford insurance for themselves, let alone their cat or dog. Most dogs will live an average of 10 to 15 years, with good care. That means regular vet care - spaying/neutering, booster shots, and yes, even dental care. So please, crunch the numbers. Be sure a pet is within the family budget. Remember, this is a living, breathing creature that has needs just like you do, in order to live a long & healthy life. Be sure you can meet those needs before you take it home.

3. Pound or Pet Store? Most everyone has heard of puppy-mills. To be very honest, in all my years of dealing with animals, rarely have I heard of wonderful success stories from people who purchased their new pet from a Pet Store. Unless it is a turtle or giant spider! In general, many pet stores purchase their animals from puppy-mills. Breeders who breed hundreds of Labs, or Dalmations, or Shepherds every year. Many are reputable, and provide the very best care for their animals. Many more however, do not. If you want a pure-bred dog or cat, I recommend a breeder who specializes in that one breed, and has verifiable paper work regarding the lineage of the father & mother, and is willing to produce any paper work you might ask to see, especially regarding veterinary care. If they balk at your request to view these documents, you should be warned! Most breeds of dogs have one or two genetic traits that you should be aware of before adopting. Hip displasia, eye problems, skin problems. Be sure you know what these potential problem areas are, and plan accordingly. In-breeding is common in many puppy-mills, and this can make these issues even worse, not to mention create new ones not mentioned here. Also, many breeders over-breed the parents of these puppies. If your potential breeder has only a single male and female, but they have 50 available puppies, you might want to keep looking!

How about those animals from the local shelter? True, they may not have a pedigree, but I have personally adopted all but one of my animals from a shelter. And to be very honest, I would have been proud ...and still am actually...to put any one of them up against a pedigreed dog for anything from temperment to intelligence. As you can see from this site, you can get some beautiful animals from a shelter. And with the money you save by not paying for that pedigree paper, you can even afford that obediance class you might have been thinking about!

And remember, every dog can be trained, no matter the age. True, an older dog may be more set in it's ways, but they are also usually more settled down, and thus, training them to new ways is actually easier in many respects.

So, before you decide to surprise little Jimmy with a new puppy this year, please, be sure this a gift that you are prepared for. With the proper thought and planning, this gift will keep giving you and your family ton's of love and enjoyment for many, many years to come! And unlike that itchy sweater from Grandma, this one will be much harder...if not impossible...to return for another gift!

Happy Holidays...for pets too!

2007-11-20T12:17:00.000-06:00

Wow! Thanksgiving already! And Christmas is just around the corner too! I can smell that Turkey already...and so can the pets! So, in the spirit of the upcoming Holiday season...just a few helpful reminders to keep this time of the year festive, and safe, for all!

Most dog owners are aware of the hazards of giving your dog chicken - and turkey - bones. For those that are not aware, just a reminder that giving your dog these types of bones can be very harmful to your pet. Chicken & turkey bones splinter, instead of breaking off in small chunks like say...a ham bone. These splinters can become wedged in your dogs throat, and choke it. Also, the splinters can even pierce the walls of the throat, causing internal bleeding and infection. The only way to remove these bones if they become lodged like this, is through surgery...and we all know how expensive any type of surgery can be, for human or pet! So, ham bones...good! Turkey legs or chicken legs...bad!

Mmmmmm! Stuffing! But...before you let Fido have a hearty helping, think about the ingredients of that stuffing. Does it have onions? Any garlic? If so, don't let Fido have any! If you have read a few of my previous articles, you may have noted the comments regarding the harmful effects of garlic and onions to your dog. If not, I encourage you to take a peek at some of the archived articles. Onions and garlic can not only make your pet very ill, but depending on the size & age of your pet, it could even be fatal! Might wanna stick with a small bowl of high grade dog food like Science Diet, and a little doggy gravy. The Iams dog food company puts out a number of different flavored sauces, that you can add to your dogs canned or dry food for a special Holiday treat. They do not need to refrigerated after they have been opened, so that is a big plus. And, they come in a number of tasty flavors, like Beef, Bacon & Chicken! They are specially designed for your pets, and have all the vitamins they need to keep their coats healthy...without being too rich for their systems like much of the people food might be! And hey...they even smell good too!

And what would the Holidays be without all the desserts! It would like McHale's Navy...without the fun! Ok...so maybe I'm dating myself! But we all know how tempting those festive Holiday dessert trays can be to us, and you had better be sure they will appeal just as much to our pets! Chocolate covered cherries, Bread Pudding (with raisins), pies or cookies with Macadamia nuts...all bad for Fido...and possibly even fatal. So please take the extra time to make sure the kids know these things are for peeps only...not pets!

We want to make our pets feel included in our Holiday festivities, and we definitely want the Holidays to remain a happy time for all. With the proper thought and planning, we can make this a reality for everyone...even Fido!

INSIDE OR OUTSIDE - WHICH IS BEST?

2007-11-04T14:38:00.000-06:00

One of the eternal - and often more contentious - questions dog owners have, is over whether it is better to keep your dog inside, or outside. The short answer is - it depends! Whatever your personal choice turns out to be, here are a few things to consider you may not have thought of - at least not lately.

1. Training - The myth is that some dogs cannot be trained to become an indoor dog. The operative word here is "trained". For many dog owners, housebreaking a dog can be the most daunting of any training they will do. It can be very frustrating if not done correctly. Done properly, it can be done fairly quickly, and with minimal mess. It requires patience, committment, and consistency. It also requires an indoor crate in which to keep your dog during the training process. If this is the only reason you have kept Fido outside, come back next week for training tips that may help!

2. Outdoor Hazards - There are many. Other animals, weather, yard debris and parasites. Small dogs kept outdoors may fall victim to roaming predators such as coyotes. A small dog, chained up outdoors, has virtually little or no protection from a larger adversary such as a coyote. With winter coming, if you live in a more rural area where coyotes roam, you should bear in mind that if food becomes an issue, a coyote has no problem coming into your yard for an easy meal. A small dog staked out on the end of a chain is as easy as it gets!

Some breeds are not good outdoor dogs. A Rat Terrier for example may have a rough go of it in very cold weather. Their short hair and low body fat offers them little natural protection from inclement weather and cold temperatures. It should also be noted that some breeds were bred for the express purpose of being an indoor lap dog. Dogs that fall into the Miniature, & Toy categories, like Jack Russell, Rat Terrier, Chihuahuas were meant to be indoor dogs. If you want an outdoor breed, pick one that will have the proper size and coat to survive if weather is an issue where you live. Hardier breeds like Labs, Retrievers, Shepherds and Sheepdogs are some of the more common choices. If you keep any dog outdoors during the winter, be sure they have a dry and weatherproof dog house for shelter, preferably on a raised platform. All too often I see a dog chained in the yard after a driving rainstorm, standing in three or four inches of mud & muck. Even the inside of the dog house house is covered in mud & muck. Be sure to change the bedding inside the dog house regularly. In winter if it snows, and you use hay inside the dog house, it should be changed weekly to keep it dry & allow for maximum warmth.

Yard Debris - If you keep a dog chained up in your yard, be sure and police your yard regularly to ensure there is nothing your dogs chain or lead can become entangled with. Fallen tree branches, large toys such as bikes, or other items can cause the dogs lead to shorten, thus keeping it from being able to reach its shelter or food & water. And some of these items can also cause poking injuries to the eyes, or scratches which can later become infected.

Parasites - Fleas and ticks are the most common, but outdoor animals can also fall victim to stings from scorpions, spider bites and of course, mosquito bites. If you keep your dog outdoors, be sure to keep them on medication such as Heartguard to protect them from heartworms, and Frontline to protect them from fleas & ticks. Check them weekly at a minimum to be sure they have not been bitten or stung by anything else that may require Vet treatment. Remember, if the inside warmth of a dog house is attractive to your dog, it will also be attractive to other critters too!

3. Indoor Hazards - If you keep your dog inside, remember that like your two-legged kids, they also need protection from things like household cleaners. Just because it smells bad to us, don't assume they will find the odor equally offensive. And just like our human children, they will put anything & everything in their mouths! Coins, buttons...I even heard of a lady who had left a wrist watch with a nice new leather band on her end table. Her Poodle thought the new leather band tasted even better than it smelled, and somewhere during the whole chewing process, even managed to swallow her watch! Gave a whole new meaning to "Takes a licking, and keeps on ticking!".

4. Noise - How many times have you heard someone complain about a neighbors outdoor dog barking all night long, keeping them awake. Dogs bark for a variety of reasons. They bark because they are hungry, thirsty, bored or to warn of potential intruders - four legged as well as two legged. Also remember that our domestic dogs are descendants of the wolf - and we all know they love to howl at the moon! Really though, dogs also bark to communicate with other dogs in the neighborhood. They also bark if they are lonely. You can help curb this all night noise affair by making sure before you go in for the evening, they have a full water & food dish, a dry & warm place to sleep, and plenty of attention. Play with them late in the day, and wear them out a little. They will sleep better, and make a lot less noise at night.

In the end, it really comes down to personal preference. I prefer my dogs inside, lying next me on the couch, or sleeping at my feet. I don't believe that if you have a big dog for protection, you are protected very much when someone kicks in your front door, while "Killer" is chained up out back! Having said that, if you prefer your dog outside, and you provide for it's health & well being, I know many breeds that thrive on those conditions, and often prefer it. The key is picking the right dog for your personal situation. Having a Great Dane inside the house may pose a little more of a challenge than say, a Miniature Schnauzer, but it isn't impossible. Keeping that Great Pyranese outdoors may make a little more sense than say, that Toy Poodle. What makes it the best choice for you and your dog, depends mostly on how you train them if they are going to be inside, and how you provide for them if they will be outside.

And please remember. If you have that female unspayed Lab chained up outside, don't be one of those people who complain about all the unwanted male attention they get at three in the morning! Male or female, indoor or outdoor, your dog will be happier, heathier and yes, even quieter if they are spayed or neutered.

Ain't misbehavin'!

2007-10-20T23:32:00.000-05:00

I have two dogs, and with few exceptions, they are both well mannered and well behaved. On occasion, I have been asked how it is that they are so well behaved. The short answer is...time. You must make the time to spend with your pet if you want them to be properly trained and socialized. Just as you make the time for your children. And while some may be offended by the comparison, it really isn't that far off in some ways. Here are a just a few examples of what I mean:

1. Toys - Like children, your pets will fight over toys or chewies, and need to be taught how to share. We teach our children not to hit or fight, and we should also teach our pets not to snarl & bite.

2. Food - Animals, like children, can be very picky eaters. The main difference is that while our kids may not especially like "people food", you can be sure the same is not the case most often with our pets. Is it possible to over-feed our pets? Yes. And just like we do for our kids, we should watch for those high-calorie, high fat foods that our four-legged children seem partial to. Just because it tastes good, doesn't mean it's good for them! In general, people food is too rich for our pets, and may contain some things that may be harmful for them, like garlic powder or onions.

3. Vaccinations - Just like we ensure our children have their shots for school, we need to make sure our pets have their shots too. If your pet goes outside at all, those shots may be the difference between them contracting a case of rabies or parvo, or staying healthy. Think of it like car insurance. You get it not so much because you think of yourself as a bad driver, but because you expect someone else might be. You get the shots for your pets not as much because you worry what they might get at home, but because of what they might be exposed to outside of the home...like other pets who are not vaccinated by their owners.

If you want the best out of your pet, here are four things you can do to help them make your life more enjoyable, and theirs too!

1. Exercise - Like people, pets need exercise. Some breeds of dogs need more than others, but a couch potato dog is not a good thing! A daily walk is a good start. Not only is it good exercise, but it also gives you and Fido a chance to work on proper leash etiquette. If you have a high energy breed, daily exercise is the best medicine for keeping them calm, and making it easier to turn them into a house dog, versus a yard dog.

Suggestion: Many dog websites sell bubbles that come in in flavors that dogs like. Most dogs love chasing bubbles, and it can be good exercise! NOTE: Don't use kids bubbles! They have a soapy residue that may cause vomiting and diarrhea in your pet!!!

2. Mental Stimulation - All dogs need mental stimulation. And some breeds, like border collies, shepherds and dalmations need even more. Toys that give dogs a chance to use problem solving skills are an excellent way to challenge them. Most pet stores and veternarians sell toys like Kongs. They come in different sizes, and are made of an almost indestructable material. They are hollowed out in the middle, and allow you to stuff them with Fidos favorite goodies, like a mixtures of kibble and peanut butter, or even half of a hot dog for the larger variety. Fido will spend hours trying to figure out how to get his goodies out, and most important, it gives you the chance to teach him that chewing on the Kong is good, and chewing on your favorite sneakers is not.

3. Toys - Start your puppy off early with the use of toys. Starting them off early will let them know what is ok to play with, and what is not. It is most important later, when you need to go off to work or Grandmas, and must leave Fido behind. When you are gone, your pet needs something to do. If you have not provided the proper entertainment for them, they will entertain themselves, often at your expense. Be sure the toys are sturdy, and that they don't have things Fido can bite off and swallow, like buttons or snaps. Also, rotate their toys every week, so they won't become bored with them and look for something a little more exciting. And remember, never play with Fido with things you DON'T want them to play with later on their own. That leather work glove or kitchen mitten makes for great fun at the time, but how is your pet supposed to know that when your gone, it is not ok to tear it up on their own? Think about that the next time you chase Fido with that vaccum cleaner hose!

4. Time - It's cheap, they won't choke on it, and it will pay many dividends later. Spending time with your pet not only strengthens your bond with it, but also allows you to learn more about them and their hidden talents. And, like our human children, they need to be taught what we expect of them. Remember, they are thinking creatures...not plants. Osmosis won't work! Your dogs WANT to please you! It really is what they live for. In a mere ten to fifteen minutes a day, you can teach your dog to shake hands, high-five or lay down on command. You'll be proud to show your neighbors their fancy tricks, and they will love the attention! Teaching them to scuba dive or ride a skateboard may take a little longer...but it could be well worth the effort!

The really good news? So far...I have not had one report of a dog trying to stuff a peanut butter and jelly sandwich into the slot on a VCR, or put a pop tart in the DVD player!

And one last pet tip. Our indoor pets get used to our lifestyles. If we have the TV on, or listen to the radio, they become accustomed to the sounds of those things. When you leave, and the house is totally quiet, they can become easily spooked by noises that are not familiar to them. Help curb pet separation anxiety by leaving the TV on, or the radio. The noise will help to drown out unfamiliar noises, and helps to relax them. Also, leave an old t-shirt or other clothing article in their bed. Your scent on the article will also help relax them, and will keep them from dragging out all your dirty laundry into the living room!

Dogs that need homes!

2007-10-20T23:10:00.000-05:00

I have had several people in the Eureka area that have contacted me, requesting help in finding a home for their dogs. These dogs are not currently being housed at the pound, and the hope is that with your help, they will not need to be.

The dog breeds available range from shepherd mix, to rat terrier mix. Most are fairly young. In the case of the rat terrier dogs, one is male, one is female, and both have been spayed/neutered, have current city tags, and are current on their shots. The owners have sold their home and are moving soon, and really need to find these two pooches a good & loving home. If you think you can help, please contact me at (620)750-0302. I have posted a picture of them.

To find out what other dogs are available, just give me a call. Please help if you can!

Sites for everyone!

2007-10-14T14:34:00.000-05:00

There is so much information available for animal lovers these days. Whether it's dogs, cats or whales, there is something for everyone. Here are a few sites I have culled from the listing of the Humane Society of the United States. If you have the time, why not take a peek. The HSUS is one of the best in the world for all they do for not only domestic pets, but all wild life. Whether you would like to find out more on how you can become more active in animal issues, or just how to get some flyers & brochures for your organization, these sites recommended by the HSUS can help.

www.hsus.org - The HSUS site provides information on animal-related topics, describes HSUS programs, and suggests ways to help animals. You can slo find information on how to order those flyers and/or brochures for your organization, or even a T-shirt showing your support for your favorite animal cause.

www.fundforanimals.org - The Fund For Animals and the HSUS have joined forces to make the work to protect animals even more effective. The Fund's website provides a wealth of information direct-care, hands-on efforts and more.

www.hsihsus.org - This is the Humane Society International's website. If you have a desire to help animals the world over, visit this site and see how you can help.

www.nahee.org - This is a HSUS affiliate website, designed for youth education. The National Association for Humane and Environmental Education, maintains this website to help parents and educators teach children to treat animals with kindness and respect.

www.humaneteen.org - This HSUS educational affiliate also has an interactive website to inspire middle and high school students to get involved in animal protection activities.

www.stoppuppymills.com - This website provides information on how you can help protect our best four-legged friends from the abuses of the mass commercial dog-breeding industry.

www.fund.org - The Humane Society Legislative Fund, a new political arm the HSUS created with The Fund For Animals, maintains this website to provides members with information on legislative and public policy actions you can take to make the world a better place for all animals.

www.protectseals.org - This website provides information on Canada'scommercial seal hunt - and what members can do to help end it.

www.furfreeaction.org - This website for activists features the latest work being done to protect animals from becoming victims of the fur industry, and ways everyone can help create a fur-free society.

www.savewhalesnotwhaling.org - This website offers informatiion on the threats whales still face from whalers, and how you can help protect them.

Please note: I have included these these sites as a matter of fairness to all sides of the effort to protect the animals of the world. This site in no way specifically endorses the individual sites mentioned, or their specific policies and procedures.

Please...be pet responsible!

2007-09-27T13:21:00.000-05:00

Just a special, heartfelt request to everyone in our area. Please, be pet responsible. Please, do not bring your unwanted dogs & cats to the pound and just dump them there. Or anywhere else for that matter! Dumping animals is a form of animal cruelty, which is now a felony in the State of Kansas. Not only that, for puppies that are barely weaned and have little or no ability to fend for themselves, they can very easily fall victim to predators like Coyotes, or worse yet, be run over by traffic.

The Eureka Pound has a very limited number of available cages. While every effort is made to find homes for every animal we take in, it is a hard truth that in in the last year and a half, over two hundred dogs and cats have had to be euthanized, because there are simply not enough homes for them. That statistic alone, for a town this size, is very disturbing. But not nearly as disturbing as the number of animals that have been dumped at the pound over the past couple of months.

If you have animals you cannot find a home for, and you have made every effort to do so, please call me, and lets try working together for a possible solution. Every animal that is dumped at the pound places an increased pressure on those that have been waiting for a home, and forces a decision as to which dog or cat can stay, and which one might have to be euthanized in order to make room for the new arrival. Perhaps , before you make that decision to leave an animal behind, you would like a opportunity to look into the sad & desperate faces of the animals already there, and choose for yourself which one must go. It seems only fair.

So please, be pet responsible. Spay or neuter your current pets, and if you have animals you don't want, think before you act. Call me, and lets see if there is another option that may be more equitable for all.

Think About it!

2007-09-27T12:34:00.000-05:00

As an Animal Control Officer, I often see things that just make you scratch your head and ask "What are they thinking?". The number one thing is why more people don't have their pets spayed or neutered. Oh, I have heard all the excuses...from "She's so cute, what if we decide we want puppies?", to... "I don't want my dog to get fat!". The truth? As a general rule, the two main reasons more people don't do it is because of 1.) Lack of information, and 2.) Money. Let's be honest about it! More often than not, it comes down to a matter of dollars. The other excuses are just a convenient form of rationalization.

This month, the ASPCA is sponsoring the Adopt-A-Shelter Dog Month, and are encouraging people across the the country to visit your local shelter or pound, and give a dog or cat a chance for a new life. In keeping with this theme, I am redistributing some pertinent information for you, courtesy of the Kansas Humane Society and the American Humane Association. Please...take a few moments to look through it, and then think about it. Look at the pictures I have posted on this site, and know that not one of these wonderful animals has been fixed. Then ask yourself, would they be where they are, if they had been? Or if their parents had been? Just think about it!

Too many pets, not enough homes:

Each year, around 15 million pets are turned in to animal shelters across the country. Only 25 to 30 percent of these animals are reclaimed by their owners or adopted into new homes. The rest, some 11 million dogs, cats, puppies and kittens, must be put to death because no one wants them. This terrible waste can easily be reduced by reducing the number of puppies and kittens being born. And the best way to do that is to neuter your pets. Neutering is a simple surgical procedure which prevents pets from reproducing by removing their reproductive organs.
As a pet owner, you can add to the overpopulation problem or help end it. Don't fool yourself into thinking that if you find a home for each of your pet's offspring you avoid adding to the number of homeless pets. Actually, you've only eliminated potential homes for other waiting puppies and kittens. Only so many responsible, caring homes exist, and finding a home for one of your pet's offspring inevitably dooms some other cat or dog. Besides giving other pets a chance at a loving home, neutering your pets gives them and you a lot of benefits you may not be aware of...

Your pet will be a more content family member:

Because they're domestic animals, dogs and cats naturally take to, and need, people, but this natural affection gets overpowered by the drive to reproduce. This urge to mate leads to roaming, fighting, aggression, excessive barking, howling, and other unwelcome behaviors. Neutered pets are freed of this urge and the resulting bothersome behaviors, making a calmer and more content pet who prefers to stay home and concentrate on you. If you have more than one pet, you'll find your neutered pets get along much better with each other.

You won't have to fight off suitors:

When your female dog or cat goes into heat, the males for blocks around will know it. Some breeds of dogs can smell a female in heat up to five miles away. Walking her will be like going into battle. Every loose male dog in the neighborhood will follow, and nothing will drive them away. Your dog will normally come into heat twice a year, and she'll attract males for almost three weeks.
Cats are incredibly efficient reproducers. During breeding season (approximately February through October), females come into heat as often as every two weeks, and won't stop unless they're allowed to reproduce. They also can go into heat while nursing their current litter. Cats needing to mate will wail, rub, and dart out the door at the slightest opportunity. They become almost magical in their ability to escape. If you don't want your pet to breed, you're in for a very trying time. You'll get no cooperation from your pets because all their instincts are compelling them to find a mate. Nor is a fenced yard sure protection. Dogs will achieve the impossible when motivated to mate, and the number of puppies conceived in safely fenced yards number in the hundreds of thousands.

Your pet will be healthier:

Because the urge to search out mates is eliminated, neutered pets are less likely to roam from home and be injured in fights or killed in traffic. In fact, neutered pets have twice the average life expectancy of unneutered pets, partly due to a much lower chance of suffering from breast, uterine, prostate, and testicular cancers.
Dogs and cats can be neutered as early as eight weeks or anytime beyond that age. Females can be neutered when they're in season or early pregnancy, but the risks are somewhat greater. (Be sure to inform your veterinarian of her condition.) The best and easiest thing for you and your pet is to get her neutered as early as possible and before she comes in season the first time. Waiting until after her first heat period does nothing for either of you. Make an appointment with your veterinarian. If the expense is a problem, ask your local humane society about the low-cost spay/ neuter clinics in your area.

You won't have to put up with staining or spraying:

During their "heat" periods, female dogs and cats experience a flow of blood. So unless you're willing to diaper your pet (and can anticipate the timing) or deal with the stains on your rugs and furniture, spay your pet and eliminate this problem entirely.
Unneutered male cats can also stain your floors and furniture, but it happens year round and it smells terrible. As active reproducers, unneutered male cats must tell everyone that this is their area and they're willing to defend it, so they mark territory by "spraying" objects inside and outside of the house with strong smelling urine. If neutered early, male cats rarely develop this habit. Older "sprayers" usually stop within a few months of being neutered.

You won't have to spend extra money:

Purebred or not, it costs money to bring a healthy litter into the world. The mother will need periodic check-ups by a veterinarian and a special diet during her pregnancy. Medical costs will mount if she has problems during the pregnancy or delivery, or if the puppies or kittens have health problems. The young won't be ready to leave home for eight weeks, which means two months of housing, cleaning, and feeding them. In addition, they'll need to be checked and vaccinated by a veterinarian before putting them up for sale.
All this takes time and money, not to mention the cost of advertising and the days spent waiting by the phone and showing the animals to prospective buyers. If you don't screen the buyers carefully, you may also end up carrying the additional burden of conscience for letting a puppy or kitten go to a home where he may be ignored, mistreated, abandoned, or abused. Worst of all is the heartbreaking decision about what to do with the leftover puppies and kittens you just can't find homes for.

You won't have to find homes for the offspring:

When you read the columns of classified ads selling puppies and kittens, or listen to your local radio station, you'd think breeding your pet could make you rich. Don't count on it! A lot of those animals are never sold and end up being given away or taken to a shelter.
If your pet isn't a purebred, you'll have trouble giving the young away. Even if your pet is purebred, she must be mated with another purebred and the pups or kittens properly registered (for a fee) for any hope of profit. And it's very likely your pedigreed female will make a shambles of your best-laid plans by mating with the first mutt or alley cat she meets. Worse yet, even if you keep your pet properly restrained in your yard, she can still be mated by someone elses pet on the loose, and you won't know what the pups will be like until they get here. Most dog breeds have their own genetic issues, and some breeds - if they mix - can have potential issues that may be very expensive indeed to take care of at best, and make it very difficult to adopt out at worst.

You won't add to the fatal population explosion:

No one likes to think about healthy, beautiful, affectionate cats, dogs, puppies and kittens losing their lives because no one wants them. Shelters, which offer food, warmth, and medical attention, care very much about these animals, but the volume of pets entering shelters greatly outnumbers the families looking to adopt. Euthanasia protects the unwanted ones from the pain of a life without companionship. A better solution is to limit the number of animals being born until they equal the number of people who want and can care for them. So please contact your veterinarian or animal shelter and get your pet neutered.

Thanks again to the Kansas Humane Society and the American Humane Association for the contents of this article.

Did You Know?

2007-09-27T12:20:00.000-05:00

You raised that dog since it was 8 weeks old. Through countless vacations, weekend trips to the country, or maybe just being there for you when you were suffering from that nasty flu, Fido or Kitty has been there for you, comforting you, loving you without question. Now, unfortunately, your beloved pet has passed on.

Did you know that the ASPCA Animal Behavior Center offers a free Pet Loss Hotline for those trying to cope with the loss of a beloved companion? The service is led by Stephanie LaFarge, Ph.D., a psychologist with a deep understanding of the human-animal bond. As Senior Director of Counseling Services for the ASPCA, Dr. LaFarge helped hundreds of pet parents following the devastation of Hurricanes Katrina and Rita, and continues to aid those facing difficult circumstances.

The ASPCA Pet Loss Hotline is free and available round-the-clock. Call 1-800-946-4646 and enter the pin number 140-7211, then your own phone number. Or call 1-217-337-9773. Dr. LaFarge will return your call. For more advice, including how to help kids cope with pet loss, visit: www.aspca.org/behavior. Don't suffer loss alone!

Need help with your pets behavior?

2007-09-27T12:06:00.000-05:00

We've all seen it, that poor lady out trying to walk her dog, or should I say being drug down the street by her dog. Or maybe you have a dog who is great with family members, but shows aggression towards your friends when they come over for that weekend barbeque. Or maybe you are a frustrated cat owner, who can't understand why your cat would rather poop on the bathroom rug than in its litter box.

Whatever the issue, did you know help is a close as your computer? For all of the above pet behavior issues, and many more, simply log on the the ASPCA website, where you can get expert advice on resolving these problems. One of the most common reasons for animals to wind up in the local animal shelter or pound, is due to unresolved behavioral issues. So be a friend to your pet, and help them get the help they need to be a better best friend to you! Log on to www.aspca.org/behavior, and get help now!

And then there are the plants!

2007-09-23T19:51:00.000-05:00

First the question, "Why does my dog eat grass?". Dogs get upset stomachs just like we do. They eat grass because it helps them to throw up, which makes their stomach feel better. Or so I've been told. Makes sense to me anyway, and it seems to work pretty well for my dog, Haley.

Since we are on the subject of leafy, greenie things, let's talk about a few of the other things found in our home & yard our fuzzy children should stay from:

Toxic Plants for Dogs:

Mushrooms:

Mushroom toxicity does occur in dogs and it can be fatal if certain species of mushrooms are eaten. Amanita phalloides is the most commonly reported severely toxic species of mushroom in the US but other Amanita species are toxic. Symptoms include abdominal pain, drooling, liver damage, kidney damage, vomiting, diarrhea, convulsions, coma, and even death.

Holiday Plants:

Pet owners need to take extra care with holiday plants. When the holidays roll around, we often get caught up in the festivities and don't realize that we may be bringing something very dangerous into our home for our pets. Be aware of what holiday decorations may be toxic and avoid turning a happy occasion into a tragic one.

Poinsettias:

These plants are probably the most popular holiday plant and are easily recognizable by their large red, white, pink, or mottled leaves. These plants also contain a thick, milky irritant sap. In general, it would take ingestion of a large amount of this plant to see possible clinical signs in your pet. Signs could include vomiting, anorexia and depression. The symptoms are generally self-limiting and treatment is rarely needed. Your Vet may recommend limiting food and water intake for 1 or 2 hours if your pet is suspected of becoming sick after ingestion of poinsettias.

Easter Lilies:

Some members of the Lilly family of plants can result in serious illness in cats. Specifically, Easter Lilies, Tiger lilies, Japanese show lilies, Rubrum lilies, many lily hybrids and Day lilies have been known to cause kidney failure.

Mistletoe:

The berries from Mistletoe can be fatal for dogs or cats.

Hyacinth, Narcissus, Daffodil:

The bulbs are the toxic part. Symptoms will include nausea, vomiting and dirrhea. May be fatal.

Larkspur:

Young plants & seeds. Can cause digestive upset, nervous excitement, depression. May be fatal.

Rhubarb:

The leaf blade is the dangerous part here. Can be fatal. Large amounts of raw or cooked leaves can cause convulsions and coma, followed rapidly by death.

Rhododendrons:

Fatal. produces nausea and vomiting, depression, difficult breathing, prostration and coma.

Yew:

Both the berries and the foliage. Fatal. The foliage is more toxic than the berries. Death is usually sudden without warning symptoms.

Finally, while prevention is the best cure, no matter what we do, sometimes we just can't keep our good dogs from doing bad things. If you suspect your pet has eaten something they shouldn't have, call your vet immediately! I have included a link for the pet poison helpline in the event it is after hours.

What's in a name?

2007-09-23T19:23:00.000-05:00

Well, everything! Can't think of a name for the newest addition to your household? Of course I'm thinking about the four-legged variety...but I suppose you could use the names on the kids too. But don't blame us if having your child go through school with the name "Spot" eventually sends them to therapy!

But if you just can't think of the purr-fect name for that cute kitten...check out the link to bowwow.com. It's dog-gone good!

Just say no!

2007-09-23T15:56:00.000-05:00

We all have our favorite foods & beverages. Not surprisingly, so do our our dogs. And often, it just happens to be the same as ours! Spoiling our pets often becomes second nature to us. Unfortunately, many of us don't know that that we may not just be spoiling them, but we might be poisoning them as well!

So here are a few of the things we should NEVER feed our dogs...no matter how much they beg for it!

Alcohol: Alcohol depresses brain function in dogs and can send them into a coma. It can cause further damage by turning their blood acidic.

Dogs are not equipped with the protective enzymes that allow humans to imbibe reasonable amounts of alcohol without harm. And because most dogs are smaller than humans and are more sensitive to alcohol, it doesn't take much to cause serious problems. How much depends on the size of the dog, and the amount and type of alcohol it consumes.

So - no pina colodas for Fido. Not for fun, and not by accident with those party leftovers.

Coffee: The caffine in a cup of coffee is a methylxanthine compound that binds to receptors on all surfaces, precluding the normal compounds from attaching there. In english? Caffine blocks the normal compounds from attaching to Fidos blood cells. In much the same way that inhaling carbon monoxide from your cars exhaust will block oxygen from attaching to your blood cells. It just tastes better to Fido.

Caffine in any form - coffee, tea, soda, or chocolate - can increase your dogs heart rate, produce an irregular heart beat, and trigger seizures. It can also cause severe gastrointestinal problems. So no Starbucks for Fido!

Garlic: Someone once told me that if you eat a lot of garlic, you won't be bothered by many types types of biting insects, like mosquitoes and fleas. Or your friends & neighbors either! So...by logical extension, you might think it will work the same way for your dog. WRONG!

Garlic, in any form, breaks down a dog's red blood cells, and large amounts over time can lead to anemia and possible kidney failure from leaking hemoglobin.

Dogs don't have the necessary enzyme to properly breakdown the compound thiosulphate, which is a prime ingredient of garlic.

According to ASPCA (American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals), if a dog eats 0.5 % of its body weight in garlic, it can show signs of poison. In otherwords, just five grams (0.18 ounces) of garlic per kilogram (2.2 lbs), or two grams (0.07 ounces) of garlic per pound, can mean an emergency trip to the Vet for Fido. As you can see, it doesn't take much.

Chocolate: If you take nothing else from this article, please remember this! The chemical contained in chocolate - theobromine - can be fatal to our furry friends! Just 3 ounces (85 grams) of dark chocolate, or seven ounces (198 grams) of milk chocolate can bring on vomiting in a 50 pound dog!

Chocolate also contains the methylxanthine compound reffered to earlier in coffee, making the combination a deadly & dangerous combination for our best friends. Dogs don't metabolize & excrete theobromine as fast as humans, causing a toxic build up in the blood.

So, how can you tell if Fido has been the victim of chocolate toxicity? The signs can occur withing hours. They include vomiting, diarrhea, increased heart rate, rapid breathing, tremors, seizures and coma. This one is serious, so be sure to tell the children, no chocolate for the dog. No matter how much they beg, just say no!

Grapes: Animal toxicologists have found that grapes and raisins can cause acute renal and kidney failure in dogs.

Though the research is ongoing, some suspect the cause may be a compound soluble in water, which is indigestibal to dogs. A possible fungal toxin is also suspected.

One thing is known for sure. As few as ten raisins or grapes could be fatal to your beloved pooch.

Onions: Aside from the breath issue, onions for your dog is a bad idea for another reason. The damage caused by ingesting onions is cumultive, so small tastes over time can be potentially worse than if Spot ate the whole bulb at once.

Whether its done over time, or all at once, the eating of onions by dogs can cause anemia.

Anything onion, like anything garlic, also contains the thiosulphate compound, which we now know dogs lack the enzyme to digest.

Yeast: Like alcohol, ingestion of yeast can cause fatal damage. Active yeast found in raw bread releases alcohol as it grows.

Yeast enjoys moist, warm environments - like a dogs stomach. The expanding dough can prevent blood from flowing to the heart, by distending or expanding the abdomen.

Macadamia Nuts: Expets have yet to discover why just a few of these nuts can produce tremors, even temporary paralysis, in a dogs hind legs.

High phosphorus content in nuts in general, can cause kidney stones in dogs. And it doesn't take much...four or five nuts and a 10 pound dog can show signs of poison. The holidays are nearing, so be extra vigilant with that nut cracker this holiday season!

Finally, just another precautionary note about the dangers of Antifreeze and your pets. Every year it is estimated that about 10,000 cats & dogs will be the victims of accidental anitfreeze poisoning. Most commercial brands of antifreeze consists of about 95 % ethylene glycol, an extremely toxic chemical. Just a few licks of this sweet-tasting liquid can be fatal to your cat or dog. (It is also extremely hazardous to children!)

For a medium sized dog, ingestion of about 2 ounces (3-4 tablespoons)is toxic. For a cat, as little as 1/4 of an ounce (1-2 teaspoons) can be fatal.

Both cats & dogs are attracted to the taste and smell of antifreeze. So when changing out that radiator in preparation for the upcoming winter season, please use extra care to be sure there is none left on the ground for our furry loved ones to sample.

Antifreeze poisoning occurs in two stages: In the first stage, the ethylene glycol in the antifreeze causes a drunken appearance in the animal within about 30 minutes which may continue for several hours. After passing through stage 1, the animal appears to recover. Stage 2 begins when the dog's liver begins metabolizing the ethylene glycol, changing it into more toxic substances. Within 12 to 36 hours of ingestion, these metabolites have reached such a level that the dog's kidneys stop functioning, and the animal slips into a coma.

Symptoms of antifreeze poisoning include a drunken appearance including staggering, lack of coordination, and apparent disorientation and vomiting. The animal may appear listless and depressed. Because early signs of antifreeze poisoning often mimic signs of other illness, neither you or your veterinarian may suspect antifreeze poisoning until it is too late. Fortunately, in house lab tests performed by your veterinarian by assist in the diagnosis of antifreeze toxicity.

Getting the dog or cat to a veterinarian is critical within the first 9-12 hours following ingestion. After that length of time, the liver will have already begun metabolizing the ethylene glycol into substances that cause kidney failure and ultimately death. Many people have asked, "What should be done to immediately care for my pet. Should I induce vomiting or give activated charcoal to my pet?"

Please take note: These are very short term fixes and not a cure. The faster your pet is treated by a veterinarian the better the chances of recovery. Again, this poison is extremely toxic.

So, remember that just because you can do someting...it doesn't mean you should. When Kitty or Fido start begging for that tasty little morsel left over on our plates...for their health and our peace of mind...just say no! And please watch those household and garage chemicals. Our furry friends only know what smells and tastes good...not what is good for them. Just like our two-legged children, they depend on us to sort that out for them, and to protect them from themselves!

About This Site

2007-09-23T15:35:00.000-05:00

This is site has been started for the benefit of the greater Greenwood County, Kansas area in general, and the City of Eureka, Kansas in particular. It is hoped that you will embrace it as your own, and visit it often.

Every attempt will made to keep it as current as possible, and I hope you will find it useful. I have attached some links to sites where the reader can get information on pet medications if you choose to order them by mail, and also from sites which offer excellent information regarding our furry friends. If you have a favorite site of your own, please feel free to contact me, and I will be happy to post it here. Or, you can post a comment of your own, and share your favorites with us that way.

I will be publishing pictures of every lost dog or cat I pick up here. Please check back often, and tell your friends & neighbors to check often as well too. Dogs and cats that have not been claimed in five days will be eligible for adoption. Please contact me through the City Administrators Office - (620)583-6140 - to learn more about the fees for pet adoption. You can also contact the City Clerks Office - (620)583-6511 - and they will be happy to answer your questions as well. This is also the place to pick up your dog/cat tags.

I will be posting articles on pet health, pet behavior, animal care tips, puppy/dog training tips and information relating to the local city codes and your pets. If you have questions of a particular nature on any of these topics, or on topics not covered here, please send them to me at snoopy7248@mchsi.com. I will answer them for you as quickly as possible. Be sure to send your preference of contact, along with the appropriate number or e-mail address.

This is the Grand Opening of our site, and we will have a few growing pains I am sure. But we will try & keep it as fresh & informative as possible, and encourage your feedback as to how we can make it better.

Thanks in advance for your support!

Steve Taylor
Eureka Animal Control

Show you care!

2007-09-21T16:00:00.000-05:00

There are many things we as pet owners can do, to show our furry friends we care about them. The first thing is a visit to the Vets Office. Our dogs and cats need those shots to protect their health, just like our children do. And they need that first exam for parasites, teeth and potential genetic issues like arthritis and hip problems too.

Another way to show we care is to have our pets tagged for rabies, and get those City tags if required. In many instances, the tags are used to help reunite owner and missing pets. Also, if an animal is properly tagged, there is a good chance your pet may returned home instead of taken to the pound.

Our pets come to depend on us for their daily needs, just like our children do. They need ample food & clean water daily, and adequate shelter from the elements at all times. Check the areas where you keep your pet tied up, to ensure they can reach those items when they need them, and to be sure they can't suffer injuries from things which may become entangled in their leads. Fido will also be very grateful if you haven't tied him up next to any ant hills or wasp nests!

And most important, socialize with your pet. Spending time with your dog or cat everyday will pay dividends later if they escape the safety of their home & yard. Well socialized animals will not have a fear of people, and will make their capture & return home much easier later if needed. With dogs, it will also help curb aggressive behavior towards strangers. Your postal delivery person will thank you too!

Another thing to remember - and one of the most important - is that our dogs NEED to be loved. They are not called our "best friends" for nothing. They want to be near us, petted by us, and yes...even told they are loved by us. While they may or may not understand what we are saying, they understand the emotions, the tone & inflection of our voices, and the gentleness of our touch. Dogs that are confined outdoors bark and howl because they are lonely, scared, bored, hungry, thirsty or any combination of these. They can't ask for what they want, so they bark & howl. They need us to be the smart and attentive ones, who will try and figure out how we can help them feel better and more secure. And more loved.

Finally, show your pet you care by having them spayed or neutered. Dogs & cats that are not spayed or neutered have a much greater risk of either testicular cancer for males, or ovarian cancer for females. And the risks gets greater as they older. Also, many studies have shown that animals that are fixed tend not to wander so far from home, if at all. This is because they do not need to be searching out that female in heat, or their potential suitor if they are female. Additionally, having your pet fixed can help eliminate much of their aggressive behavior, since studies have also shown that most aggressive behavior comes from fighting over potential mates.

We spend a lot of our time as parents trying to teach our children to be good and responsible citizens. As part of the greater community in which we live, this also means being a responsible pet owner. Having our pets properly tagged and vaccinated, and not letting them run wild throughout the neighborhood defecating on our neighbors finely manicured lawn, should be part of that teaching. It also has the added bonus of helping keep our furry loved ones from being attacked by angry neighbors, pursued by wild predators like Coyotes, or run over by speeding cars.

Our pets need us...probably more than we need them. They depend on us for those basic needs everyday, and suffer greatly when those needs are not being met. So love your pets as you would have them love you. They need training so they will know boundaries, just like our kids. They need to know when they do good, not just when they do bad. They need to be socialized so they will be friends to all, not just to you. Because whether you have thought of it or not....they share your home, and thus, they too are a part of our community. Like our children, they will turn out to be what we help make them.

Show them you care, and help make them a part of our community we are proud of!