Crazy for Critters

Scrappy Needs a Home

Here's his story, from the Good Samaritan who saved him:

"My friend was driving to work a couple of weeks ago and saw this little dog that had been hit by a car. He thought the dog was dead but as he drove by, the dog lifted up his head and barked. So my friend turned back, picked him up and took him to the vet. The vet checked him out and he seemed to be in good health, except for a slight concussion (he's a tough little guy). Anyway, the vet called the Humane Society but they were full and couldn't take him. The only other options were to A) call Animal Control and have him put to sleep, or B) find someone to adopt him. I could not, in good conscience, let the little guy be put to sleep for no reason (he didn't hurt anyone, he doesn't have a disease, etc). So I adopted the dog and brought him home. The problem is that he is a terrier mix and has a lot of energy, and I live in an apartment. But he is VERY smart and very trainable (in 2 days he's already learned his name, to walk submissively, "here" and "sit"). He's almost potty trained (only 1 accident in the house so far) and with some patience and dedication, he can be trained to respond to a lot of commands. He also sleeps in his crate (you have to bribe him with a treat though) and does not cry or bark at all the whole night. But he needs room to run and play (preferably a yard) and I don't have that. I don't want to have him crated or on a leash all the time because that's no life for him. In addition to that I have allergies and they have been going crazy since I got him.

Vitals: His name is Scrappy, he weighs about 18 lbs (he is full grown, not a puppy), has all his shots, no heartworm, is neutered and has a microchip (not registered yet). I have his crate, food, toys, etc so his new owner wouldn't have to get anything else for now. Keep in mind that he was a stray (he had a collar but no tag when he was found) so he's still learning how to be a "normal" dog.

Please - I need your help to find this little guy a home. I really don't want to take him to the Humane Society but I can't keep him. Please pass along my info to anyone you know in Dade/Broward, and maybe I'll be able to find him a better home.''

Interested? Call 305-279-6084 or 305-332-1965.

Proposal at Miami-Dade to Expand Pet-Friendly Services at MIA

The following is under consideration by the county commission:

RESOLUTION RELATING TO THE IMPROVEMENT OF ANIMAL RELIEF AREAS AT MIAMI INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT; AND REQUESTING MAYOR OR DESIGNEE TO REPORT WITHIN THIRTY DAYS ON THE FEASIBILITY OF IMPROVING SAME

WHEREAS, there are pet friendly airports around the U.S., including Phoenix Sky Harbor, Los Angeles International, Ontario, Inland Empire, San Diego International, Denver International, Boston Logan International, Minneapolis-St. Paul International, Reno-Tahoe International, Columbus, Port Columbus International, Portland International, Austin-Bergstrom International, and Seattle/Tacoma, Sea-Tac International; and
WHEREAS, there are currently two designated pet friendly areas at Miami International Airport ("MIA") that are equipped with very limited amenities, including a small doggie walk area outfitted with boxes containing bags and scoops and signage directing pet owners to clean up after their pets; and
WHEREAS improving the pet friendly areas at MIA would be a welcome amenity for the growing number of pet owners now traveling through the Airport with their animals who need convenient, sanitary and safe relief areas to take their pets while at MIA; and
WHEREAS, improving the pet friendly areas at MIA may also reduce the risk of injury to the increasing number of narcotics and explosive-detecting canines that work at MIA by improving sanitary conditions inside the terminal buildings,
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS OF MIAMI-DADE COUNTY, FLORIDA, that the Board requests the Mayor or designee to report to the Board within thirty (30) days, on the feasibility of the following:
1.) Improving the current pet friendly areas at MIA, in such ways as providing fresh drinking water, fencing, customer seating, and sufficient space for pets to exercise and stretch their legs while waiting for departure. The report should also consider the implementation of additional services in the terminal, such as booths or kiosks where pet owners can receive helpful traveling tips and can purchase pet-related items such as leashes, water bowls, pet food, collars, diapers and pet treats;
2.) Determining if current locations are adequate, desirable and convenient;
3.) Determining if additional sites are warranted; and
4.) Developing a plan to promote MIA's pet friendly areas and MIA as a pet friendly airport.

Transit Workers Unite for the Dogs of War

Sorry the picture is so blurry, but this is a great story. (The tiny pix at the bottom are employees and their pets). Kudos to everyone at SERTA who participated. Other workplaces and groups should consider a similar project. It's also a really nice thing to do for the holidays.

"When the Marketing Department of the South Florida Regional
Transportation Authority (SFRTA) was looking for a project to
take on as a team building exercise, they needed look no farther
than Bruno Packs, a national effort that originated in Chicago.
The program sends snacks, treats, toys and goods to K-9 units
abroad, primarily in Iraq. These are items which greatly enhance
the quality of life for the troops, but are virtually inaccessible in the field.

   When other SFRTA departments found out about the project, the enthusiasm for it spread throughout the agency, and then onto colleagues at Miami-Dade Transit, and customers and employees at
Sadie’s Café in Pompano Beach, as well.

The choice of a project to help canines was a natural one for the SFRTA Marketing Department, which has won statewide and national advertising competitions for a recent campaign which touted the expanded Tri-Rail service with the help of a dachshund, golden retriever, and trio of miniature poodles.

In addition to the hundreds of items collected from employees and customers, a poster was created to accompany the packs to help cover the cost of postage. For a $5 contribution, sponsors could send a photo of their own pets to the troops, personalizing the effort for both the donors and the recipients.

   Service dogs improve and save the lives of our soldiers abroad. Their loyalty to our troops is legendary. SFRTA, MDT and Sadie’s collected such things as doggie goggles, doggie eye
wipes, tennis balls, biscuits, chew ropes and brushes for the four-legged soldiers and welcome items including oatmeal, sun screen and wet wipes for their handlers.''

For more information about Bruno Packs, go to  http://thehousehound.net/ and scroll to the bottom.

   

Gorgeous Pet Portraits

Check these out. A colleague who knows this artist sent them to me and they're really charming. The artist is Janet Bloch. Click here to see more of her work - not pet-related but very interesting.   

Local Tethering Ordinance Under Consideration

And I hope it passes. From WFOR in Miami:

New Law Might Make Tethering Your Dog Illegal

Reporting
Natalia Zea

MEDLEY (CBS4) ― Changes to the way you tie up your pet could be coming to dog owners in Miami-Dade County, even if your pet is in your own backyard.

Ask almost anyone at your local dog park what they think about tethering an animal and you'll probably get a response like this: "I've seen that and it's disgusting," said dog owner Tony Dealmeida.

Animal activists post pictures of tethered dogs on their websites. Ozzie Flowers used to think tethering was no big deal. As a matter of fact, he tied up a Dalmatian his used to own in his yard.

"I think it's cruel and inhumane," said Flowers, who is a current dog owner.

But one day, "Two dogs from across the street came and they attacked him and he couldn't do anything. So I learned from that experience because he was tethered at time and because of something like that I never tethered a dog again," said Flowers.

Reactions like this one have prompted Miami-Dade animal services to push for a new local law banning tying dogs to any stationary object, such as a house, fence or post.

If this law passes you are still allowed to tie your dog up, as long as you stay near them and keep a very close eye. What you can't do is tie your dog up and leave them all alone.

Animal services Assistant Director Robert Santos says this proposal will also protect the public.

"Tying a dog is not a good idea," said Santos. "Behaviorists will say that the dog becomes very aggressive, that their social skills are diminished, and we want to minimize that."

Even though no one would say it on camera, CBS4 News did find some folks who didn't think tethering was cruel.

Gabby Needs a Home

She's a purebred boxer, and sooo cute. Email lissie34@yahoo.com.

Pet Store Inspections on Tap

BRONSON TO DEPLOY INSPECTORS TO PET STORES DURING HOLIDAY SEASON

TALLAHASSEE-Florida Agriculture and Consumer Services Commissioner Charles H. Bronson today announced that his department is conducting a sweep of pet stores during the next five weeks to ensure that such establishments are complying with regulations that protect consumers in the purchase of pets.

"Purchasing a pet during the holidays can be a rewarding experience and bring great joy to a child and other family members," Bronson said. "But you want to make sure that you are dealing with a reputable dealer who knows and follows the law to avoid what sometimes can deteriorate into an unfortunate situation."

Toward that end, inspectors are visiting numerous pet stores and dealers between now and January 1 to make sure that a store or dealer is complying with Chapter 828.29 of the Florida Statutes, a law that imposes certain obligations on sellers and offers recourse to consumers in the event that problems arise.

Under the law, dogs and cats must be at least eight weeks of age when sold or offered for sale, and each animal must be accompanied by a Florida health certificate signed by a licensed and accredited veterinarian within the past 30 days documenting required vaccinations, tests and treatments for internal or external parasites.

In addition, the law requires a dealer to provide a purchaser with information on the buyer's rights under the law, which includes the right to return, exchange or receive reimbursement for veterinary expenses if an animal is deemed unfit by a licensed veterinarian within 14 days of purchase.

Aside from making sure that a dealer is complying with the law, consumers should also consider suitability when purchasing an animal, Bronson said. For example, some breeds of dogs may be less appropriate if there are infants or young children in a home. Likewise, consumers may want to think twice before purchasing a large animal if they live in a small dwelling.

Bronson offered the following tips to consumers who are considering or planning to purchase a dog or cat:

* Don't buy on impulse; research the size and breed of the animal for suitability with your lifestyle and circumstance.

* Examine the health certificate that is required to be presented upon sale for completeness and compliance with the law.

* If there is a problem with your pet after purchase, contact the seller immediately.

The department's Division of Animal Industry assists consumers, veterinarians and pet dealers in educating them about the pet law and making sure that its provisions are followed. For additional information or to file a complaint, consumers can call 1-800-HELPFLA (1-800-435-7352) or (850) 410-0900.

Since the program began nearly three years ago, consumers who have sought assistance from Bronson's office for alleged violations of the law have received restitution totaling $80,000.

New Pet Law

BY CARLI TEPROFF

cteproff@MiamiHerald.com

CHRIS CUTRO / FOR THE MIAMI HERALD

Rita Howe feeds stray cats behind the Piccadilly on Biscayne Boulevard in North Miami. Such feedings may soon be illegal under proposed city code changes.

The second Ramon Baez opened his front door Tuesday afternoon, Romeo made a run for it.

With the front gate open as well, Romeo shot into the street, a dangerous scenario for a dog.

But just as Romeo put his paw in the street, North Miami animal code enforcement Officer Tami Fox happened to drive by.

She quickly pulled over at the corner of Northeast 125th Street and Griffing Boulevard, caught the dog and located Baez.

Fox, North Miami's only animal code enforcement officer, told Baez if it happens again, he could get a fine. She also told him that if a new animal code ordinance is approved Tuesday by the North Miami City Council, what would have been $50-$100 fine could be $150.

''We're lucky we caught him in time,'' Fox said after returning Romeo to Baez. ``That could have been a really bad situation.''

To address an outdated code -- the majority of the city's animal code was written in 1958 -- and encourage better animal care, Fox has been working with city staff to update the law to include heftier fines and stricter regulations.

The law would prohibit having any kind of fowl -- a recent problem plaguing the city. It also would limit the number of cats a person could have to four and restrict feeding wild cats. There is currently no limit.

''Right now, I am extremely limited with what I can do because our code is very outdated,'' Fox said, refering to citing people for feeding stray cats and keeping fowl. ``I think the new code will help address a lot of the concerns of the residents.

On a daily basis, Fox drives the entire city and often finds stray dogs, injured animals or code violations. She also tends to complaints from residents, including reports of too many animals in a house or stray dogs in their yard. One call she gets daily is reports of fowl running loose.

North Miami resident Ray Rodriguez, who lives on Northeast 146th Street and Northeast Seventh Court, said he couldn't wait until all of the chickens in his neighborhood were gone.

''They are noisy and nasty,'' said Rodriguez, who allowed Fox to set up a chicken trap in his yard.

Right now, all Fox can do is trap them and warn residents to get rid of them. With the new law, she will be able to issue a $100 ticket on the spot, which she thinks could be a deterrent.

Also addressed in the code are feral cats. The new code would require a person who wants to keep a cat colony outside to register with Fox and show an effort to spay or neuter and vaccinate the animals.

Rita Howe, who feeds a group of cats on the east side of the city, said she doesn't disagree with making sure the animals are fixed, but she doesn't see why feeding the animals is a problem.

''They don't bother anyone,'' she said.

Henry Pham, on the other hand, said the problem with cats is that they multiply quickly.

''A couple is not the problem. It's when there are so many,'' said Pham, who owns a nearby hair and nail salon.

If you go: Animal code ordinance

• What: North Miami City Council meeting.

• When: At 7 p.m. Tuesday.

• Where: City Hall, 776 NE 125th St.

• Information: Call 305-893-6511 or to get the agenda, visit www.northmiamifl.gov.

 

Join the discussion

The Miami Herald is pleased to provide this opportunity to share information, experiences and observations about what's in the news. Some of the comments may be reprinted elsewhere in the site or in the newspaper. We encourage lively, open debate on the issues of the day, and ask that you refrain from personal comments and remarks that are off point. Thank you for taking the time to offer your thoughts.

Recent Comments

IF YOU DON'T WANT TO SEE PETS STARVE TO DEATH, HAVE YOUR PET...
It's time to get rid of feral cats.They destroy lots of the natural...
It all starts and ends with a subsidized spay/neuter program for...
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So, Mr. Vick, Was it Worth It?

(CNN) -- The government asked a federal court Tuesday to order former Atlanta Falcons quarterback Michael Vick to keep on hand assets valued at more than $900,000 -- the amount earmarked for the care of 54 pit bulls.

The animals were found on his property when a dogfighting operation was busted last April. Vick turned himself in to authorities Monday to get a jump start on serving his sentence for running the ring.

In a motion filed in U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia, U.S. District Judge Henry Hudson noted that Vick, in his plea agreement, agreed to pay "restitution for the full amount of the costs associated with the disposition of all dogs" in the case.

Vick agreed that those costs could include "the long-term care and/or the humane euthanasia of some or all of those animals," which were seized from the "Bad Newz Kennels" on his property in Surry County, Virginia.

The motion said that only a restraining order can ensure that Vick's assets are not placed beyond the reach of the government. It noted that Vick's financial condition is deteriorating, and cited the team's attempt to recoup bonus money from his 10-year, $130 million 2004 football contract; his alleged default on a $1.3 million bank loan for a wine store; another bank lawsuit seeking payment for default on a $2.5 million line of credit; and yet another bank's lawsuit seeking at least $2 million for loans related to a car-rental business.

Don't Miss

• Vick surrenders early to begin dogfighting sentence

"In addition, published reports also indicate that Vick is in the process of selling assets, specifically a suburban Atlanta home listed at $4.5 million," it said.

Vick, 27, is being held at Northern Neck Regional Jail in Warsaw, Virginia, until an upcoming sentencing hearing. He pleaded guilty in August to a federal conspiracy charge of bankrolling the dogfighting operation after three associates admitted their own roles in the ring and agreed to cooperate with prosecutors.

Vick, who has been suspended indefinitely by NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell, faces 12 to 18 months in prison on the conspiracy charge. The sentencing hearing is scheduled for December 10.

On September 25, a Virginia grand jury indicted Vick and the three co-defendants on state charges of running a dogfighting ring. The Surry County grand jury brought two felony charges against the four men: one count of unlawfully torturing and killing dogs and one of promoting dogfights. Each could result in a five-year prison term.

Gag Order on the Tammy Grimes Case

From the Dogs Deserve Better website (FYI: I support the mission of this caring and compassionate group, and I hope the jury gets what this case is really about).

On Monday, September 19th a Jury was selected in the Case of Tammy Grimes and the trial has been set for December 12th, 13th and 14th according to the Court Administration's Office at Blair County Courthouse. 

The judge issued a Gag Order on Grimes and everyone involved in the case, however, a call to the court house revealed that the jury has been selected and the above dates have been set for the trial. It is unlikely that Grimes' evidence including a video of the dog's suffering and the veterinarian's report  will be deemed admissible.

Grimes was arrested for theft when she rescued a dying dog on September 11, 2006.  Just remember, Grimes voice may be temporarily silenced, but you still have yours. Let your voices be heard December 12th, 13th, and 14th! More information

---

In other news, on this same day, Dogs Deserve Better has signed a Private Criminal Complaint against the Arnolds. These dog owners "allegedly" left their dog "Jake" renamed "Doogie'' lying on the ground without being able to stand for days before Grimes stepped in on September 11, 2006 and took Doogie to the vet and refused to return him. Grimes was subsequently arrested for theft of the dog from the Arnold's property.

Critter Safety on Thanksgiving

It's tempting to let the critters partake in the holiday feasting, but it's not really a great idea. Much of what's on the table - and most of what's in the garbage - could cause them problems. Click here to read some sensible tips for keeping everyone happy and healthy on Thanksgiving.

Now, getting to the heart of the holiday: the "thanks'' part. I've got a lot to be grateful for, not the least of which are my wonderful and entertaining dogs and stepdogs: Gracie, Shadow, Moose, Harley and Cowboy. I can't imagine life without their antics and inquisitive looks, their furry and reassuring presence on my bed, their unqualified, tail-wagging affection and enthusiasm when I come home from work. I'm sure everyone reading this knows exactly what I mean and feels equally thankful for their own critters.

Enjoy the holiday. If you have to work, may it be an easy day.

Ellie B

Rabies Alert

A rabid racoon bit a dog- the 37th case in Broward County since July 2000. Be careful!

From the county: Laboratory tests performed on a raccoon that bit a dog came back positive for rabies, according to the Broward County Health Department. This is the 37th rabies case in Broward County since July 2000. The bite occurred on Saturday, November 10, 2007, at the 800 block of S.W. 18th Court, Fort Lauderdale. The County Health Department has advised that the rabies alert issued in 2006 for areas west of A1A to U.S. 27 and from Southwest/Southeast 17th Street South to Sheridan Street remains in effect. This area includes the cities of Cooper City, Davie, Southwest Ranches, Weston, Dania Beach, Fort Lauderdale and Hollywood. Following the attack, the rabid raccoon was taken to the Health Department which sent it to a laboratory where the tests were performed.   

Howl-o-ween Pix

From the delightfully daft Wendy Doscher-Smith. Enjoy.

Max the Surfer!

Now there's a happy dog! Send me your pet pix: pets@miamiherald.com. I'll post 'em.

Snowbunny Pomo!

Our little friend, Pomo, WOOF Patrol mascot, recently rambled back south after the first snows of the season frosted his furry self in Upstate New York. Brrr!

Coming Up....The Eukanuba

  MIAMI CANINES HEAD WEST TO COMPETE FOR TOP DOG HONORS AND
$225,000 AT SEVENTH ANNUAL AKC/EUKANUBA NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP

   WHO: Nearly 2,500 of the world's best dogs will compete to be
named Best in Show at the AKC/Eukanuba National Championship on
Dec. 1-2 in Long Beach, Calif., and 11 of them are from the Miami
area.

   WHAT: The world-class canines have qualified to compete in one
or a combination of the following categories at the planet's
greatest dog show.

   AKC/Eukanuba National Championship (Best in Show) - Those
invited to contend for this prestigious honor are: the country's
top-25 dogs (based on points) from each of the 169-AKC recognized
breeds; every Best in Show winner from AKC all-breed shows;
reigning National Specialty winners; breeder/owner handled
Champions from the Bred-by-Exhibitor and/or Puppy class; and
international competitors from around the globe.

   AKC Agility Invitational - Considered the fastest-growing
canine sport, agility allows dogs to demonstrate their
athleticism and versatility by racing against the clock and
overcoming a challenging obstacle course of tunnels, weave poles,
jumps and seesaws. It's a sport of physical skill, control,
patience and - most importantly - teamwork between handler and
dog.

   AKC National Obedience Invitational - Obedience trials
demonstrate and showcase accuracy and precision, as well as the
natural movement of the handler and the willingness and enjoyment
of the dog.

   Junior Showmanship - The excitement of competing isn't just
for adults - 159 Junior Handlers (ages 9-18), who have met high
academic standards and qualification criteria based on year-round
competition, will compete for prestigious wins and scholarship
money.

   WHERE/WHEN: Long Beach Convention Center, Long Beach, Calif.,
Dec. 1-2, 2007 (8 a.m. - 4 p.m. PT; 7 p.m. - 11 p.m. PT daily).

   AKC/Eukanuba National Championship will be simulcast on Animal
Planet and the Discovery Channel on Saturday, Feb. 2, 2008 from 8
- 11 p.m. (ET/PT).

   AKC Agility Invitational highlights will air on Animal Planet
on Sunday, Feb. 10, 2008. For more information please visit topdogshow or akc.org.

Good Counterpoint to the Remarks Below

MIAMI, November 14, 2007) - Miami-Dade County Animal Services
Department will host its 3rd annual Home for Every Holiday Pet
Adoption event to be held on Saturday, December 1, 2007, from 5
p.m. to 8 p.m. The event will be held at the Animal Services
Shelter located at 7401 NW 74 ST, Miami, FL 33166.

This adoption celebration will give County residents the
opportunity to adopt some of the shelter's many dogs and cats who
are in need of a loving home. Anyone who adopts a pet at the
event will receive a complimentary toy and have the opportunity
to take a picture with Santa.

For additional information on Miami-Dade County Animal
Services Department or this event, please contact Xiomara
Mordcovich at 305-844-1102 ext. 255.

Attendance is free and open to the public. Donations of dog
and/or cat toys are appreciated and will be accepted at the door.

Adoption Requirements:  Interested adopters must be at least
18 years of age and have proof of home ownership or that their
landlords allow pets, i.e., lease agreement or notarized letter.
Adoption fees apply, including a $50 refundable deposit if pet
is not yet spayed or neutered.

The facility is accessible. For sign language interpreters,
assistive listening devices or materials in accessible format,
please call Xiomara Mordcovich at 305 884-1102, ext 255, at least
five days in advance.

From a Craig's List Posting

Very tough words from a righteously indignant shelter operator, in response to breeders who post there. We all know she speaks the sad truth.

Reply to: see below
Date: 2007-11-12, 3:32PM EST

I am posting this (and it is long) because I think our society needs a huge "Wake-up" call. As a shelter manager, I am going to share a little insight with you all...a view from the inside if you will.

First off, this is a forum to for adoption and/or rehoming as clearly stated in the rules. All of you breeders/sellers on craigslist should not only be flagged (and I hope the good people on craigslist will continue to do so with blind fury), but you should be made to work in the "back" of an animal shelter for just one day.

Maybe if you saw the life drain from a few sad, lost, confused eyes, you would change your mind about breeding and selling to people you don't even know that puppy you just sold will most likely end up in my shelter when it's not a cute little puppy anymore.

So how would you feel if you knew that there's about a 90% chance that dog will never walk out of the shelter it is going to be dumped at? Purebred or not!

About 50% of all of the dogs that are "owner surrenders" or "strays", that come into my shelter are purebred dogs.

The most common excuses I hear are; "We are moving and we can't take our dog (or cat)." Really?

Where are you moving too that doesn't allow pets?

Or they say "The dog got bigger than we thought it would".

How big did you think a German Shepherd would get?

"We don't have time for her".

Really? I work a 10-12 hour day and still have time for my 6 dogs!

"She's tearing up our yard". How about making her a part of your family?

They always tell me "We just don't want to have to stress about finding a place for her we know she'll get adopted, she's a good dog".

Odds are your pet won't get adopted & how stressful do you think being in a shelter is?

Well, let me tell you your pet has 72 hours to find a new family from the moment you drop it off sometimes a little longer if the shelter isn't full and your dog manages to stay completely healthy if it sniffles, it dies.

Your pet will be confined to a small run/kennel in a room with about 25 other barking or crying animals.
It will have to relieve itself where it eats and sleeps. It will be depressed and it will cry constantly for the family that abandoned it. If your pet is lucky, I will have enough volunteers in that day to take him/her for a walk.

If I don't, your pet won't get any attention besides having a bowl of food slid under the kennel door and the waste sprayed out of its pen with a high-powered hose.

If your dog is big, black or any of the "Bully" breeds (pit bull, rottie, mastiff, etc) it was pretty much dead when you walked it through the front door. Those dogs just don't get adopted. If your dog doesn't get adopted within its 72 hours and the shelter is full, it will be destroyed.

If the shelter isn't full and your dog is good enough, and of a desirable enough breed it may get a stay of execution not for long though. Most get very kennel protective after about a week and are destroyed for showing aggression even the sweetest dogs will turn in this environment.

If your pet makes it over all of those hurdles chances are it will get kennel cough or an upper respiratory infection and will be destroyed because shelters just don't have the funds to pay for even a $100 treatment.

Here's a little euthanasia 101 for those of you that have never witnessed a perfectly healthy, scared animal being "put-down". First, your pet will be taken from its kennel on a leash they always look like they think they are going for a walk happy, wagging their tails.

Until they get to "The Room", every one of them freaks out and puts on the brakes when we get to the door it must smell like death or they can feel the sad souls that are left in there, it's strange, but it happens with every one of them.

Your dog or cat will be restrained, held down by 1 or 2 vet techs depending on the size and how freaked out they are. Then a euthanasia tech or a vet will start the process they will find a vein in the front leg and inject a lethal dose of the "pink stuff".

Hopefully your pet doesn't panic from being restrained and jerk I've seen the needles tear out of a leg and been covered with the resulting blood and deafened by the yelps and screams. They all don't just "go to sleep", sometimes spasm for a while, gasp for air and defecate on themselves.

When it all ends, your pets corpse will be stacked like firewood in a large freezer in the back with all of the other animals that were killed waiting to be picked up like garbage. What happens next? Cremated? Taken to the dump? Rendered into pet food? You'll never know and it probably won't even cross your mind it was just an animal and you can always buy another one, right?

I hope that those of you that have read this are bawling your eyes out and can't get the pictures out of your head I do everyday on the way home from work. I hate my job, I hate that it exists & I hate that it will always be there unless you people make some changes and realize that the lives you are affecting go much farther than the pets you dump at a shelter. Between 9 and 11 MILLION animals die every year in shelters and only you can stop it. I do my best to save every life I can but rescues are always full, and there are more animals coming in everyday than there are homes.

My point to all of this DON'T BREED OR BUY WHILE SHELTER PETS DIE!

Hate me or flag me if you want to. The truth hurts and reality is what it is. I just hope I maybe changed one persons mind about breeding their dog, taking their loving pet to a shelter, or buying a dog. I hope that someone will walk into my shelter and say “I saw this thing on craIgslist and it made me want to adopt. THAT WOULD MAKE IT WORTH IT.

Cat People vs. Bird People: It's Getting Ugly

From the NY TImes, a story about a veteran birder who shot a cat that he says was endangering some wild plovers. His story: the cat was feral, so there's no crime. The state's story: a bridgetender had been feeding the cat, so even though the cat lived under the bridge, it wasn't feral, and killing a pet is against the law. It's going to a jury.

Animal Thieves At Work

This is a really funny video on YouTube - critters snatching snacks, hats, etc., from unsuspecting humans.

Kennedy Cat Situation Editorial

From Newsday: sensible thoughts about the airport cats situation. Click here to read it.

I'm Back...In Love With Mules!

So let me say this about riding a mule into/out of the Grand Canyon: PEAK EXPERIENCE! My mule was named Squid and, with the possible except of my dad, I never trusted another living creature more. The ride was overall less scary than I'd anticipated, but there are a few spots where the trail is about two feet wide with no edge on the downhill side of a sheer drop of a couple of thousand feet that are pretty bracing, and Squid handled them like the pro he is. I went to say goodbye to him Monday morning but I couldn't pick him out of the herd: about 50 mules in the corral on their day off. They play just like dogs!

Went down the Bright Angel Trail - about six hours down - and up the Kaibab Trail, about four hours, both on the South Rim. We stayed two nights at the bottom at Phantom Ranch and took day hikes. Saw so many mule deer - so named for their enormous ears - that after awhile, they became almost routine. Saw a variety of birds but unfortunately didn't get to glimpse any bighorn sheep. First night at the ranch, we had a furry visitor in our cabin: a ringtailed cat, also plentiful in the Canyon. He found a bag of almonds under one of the bunks and the galpal in that bunch awoke to an unmistakable munching sound. Alas, he scooted before I could see him.

Of course I took a zillion pictures which I'll try to post in the next couple days.

One Last Thing...

A heartbroken colleague's lost kitty:

He got out into the street in Coconut Grove Thursday night near Day Ave and SW 32 Ave. He's short haired, neutered, about 13 pounds, and is microchipped. He has tuxedo coloring: all black with a white chest, tummy and paws. He's super friendly, and knows his name-- "Kodak". There are a bunch of other cats in the neighborhood that fit the description, mostly strays, but he is clearly a well-cared for, very social animal. There is no trace of him, and I really think if he could, he would come home. He either got himself totally lost, stuck somewhere, or somebody took him in thinking he'd be a great new house mate. If somebody does have him, I hope they will trade him back to me for the generous reward I am offering.

Pls. contact rgradus@miamiherald.com.

Blog On Vacation

Dear Readers:

I'm headed off to a GREAT vacation for a week: riding mules into/out of the Grand Canyon! I'm told they get pretty close to the edge and it can be kinda scary, but I would trust a mule to keep it together under such conditions. Many critters will be seen, I'm sure, and many pictures will be taken and shared.

Have a great week.

Ellie

Sequel to a Really Funny Email

A NOTE TO MY DOGS

Dear My Dogs,

It seems that lately things have gotten a smidge slack around here. I feel it is time to remind you of the rules that heretofore we have operated under. You are both cute dogs, but your continued cuteness in no way negates our previous agreement. Let me remind you of a few details of this agreement:

1. In exchange for room and board, you are to guar d the kingdom. That would
be guarding the kingdom from any and all bad guys, robbers, serial killers,
etc. Feel free to bark maniacally at any of those who should appear in the
yard. Guarding the kingdom does NOT include barking maniacally at bunnies,
squirrels, cows, sheep and invisible things that only you can see,
especially between the hours of 5 am (when I stumble out of bed to let you
out) and 8 am (when I actually have to be out of bed to get to work). (And
let me take a moment here to remind you that the pizza guy is a potential
bad guy. He is not your friend. Just because he comes bearing food does not
allow him free and easy access to the kingdom. He is potentially way more
dangerous than the bunnies that you threaten to tear limb from limb.)

2. All of the stuff that lives in the toy basket is yours. Everything else
is mine. Your stuff includes squeaky balls, random bones, partially
unstuffed stuffed animals and chew ropes. My stuff includes any and all
shoes on the floor (especially the expensive leather ones), underwear that
missed the hamper, bras, socks, dishtowels, the remote, the cell phone, the
legs of my grandmother's antique chair and the vacuum. Did I mention shoes?
ALL the shoes are mine. They come in pairs, not quads, for a reason.

3. The cat gets to sleep on the bed. You do not. You each weigh 50 pounds.
The cat weighs 12 pounds. You sleep smack dab in the middle of the bed with
all four feet spread out covering approximately 12 square feet apiece. The
cat sleeps in a neat little ball covering about 2 square feet. The cat does
not bring fleas into the house. You do. You, dogs, will never be allowed to
sleep on the bed. Quit sneaking up when you think I'm not looking. Your 50
pounds of dogginess negates your stealth superpowers. I know when you are up
there!!

4. Speaking of the cat- when he hunkers down into that little mo und, lays
his ears back, squints his eyes and growls way back in his chest, HE IS NOT
A HAPPY KITTY. Leave him alone. He does not want to play with you. What he
wants to do is poke your eyes out and shred the skin around your face. He
can do that, you know. Five of his six ends are really sharp and pointy. He
has previously shown very little restraint. Clearly he enjoys smacking you
upside the head with a paw full of claws. Do not aggravate him. When he
takes your head off after you have cornered him, I will let him. You have
been warned.

5. The cat is mean. He will lead you down a path to destruction. He likes to
tear around the house winding you up. He does this knowingly and
intentionally. When you chase him, I will only yell at you for careening
into walls and furniture. He knows this. Quit falling for it.

6. If you find something in the garbage can, assume that I intend for it to
be there. Plastic tampon shells ar e not chew toys. Don't eat them.

7. Also not for doggy consumption- anything you find in the litter box. This
is why you no longer get to kiss me.

8. You are allowed to sleep on the furniture. You are not allowed to eat the
furniture.

9. Yes, I have to leave every day to go to work. No, you cannot go with me.
That's why there are two of you, so you can entertain each other. The cat
gets to stay in the house. You both have to stay outside while I'm gone. The
cat does not chew things up. You do. Quit whining about it. Your porch is
air-conditioned. It's just like inside the house minus the sofa. If you'd
quit chewing up dog beds, it would be just like inside the house. You have
made your own proverbial bed by destroying two very expensive dog cushions.

10. I have opposable thumbs. This is why I get to be in charge. I can open
cans, doors, and bags of treats. I am the only one in the house who can
operate the hose sprayer. I'm also the only one with a driver's license and
a car. I win. Being cute is no match for opposable thumbs.

While I in no way wish to suppress your rightful dogginess, I feel that
these very simple guidelines will allow us to continue to co-exist in
peaceful harmony. Please know though, that should you choose to continue in
willful violation of these rules, I WILL PUT THE CAT IN CHARGE. He has just
been itching for a position in management.

Much thanks,
The Human

Read About A Great Guy Doing Great Work

Dr. Frank McMillan has been studying the emotions of dogs rescued from puppy mills. The conditions are beyond belief, as we all know. But he's got some interesting observations about the survivors. Click here to check it out.

More on the Airport Cats

PORT AUTHORITY EXTERMINATION EFFORT DUMPS SEVEN MORE JFK CATS AT ANIMAL CONTROL - Animal Activists Vow to Continue Fight as Long as Necessary

(New York, Nov. 1, 2007)  Seven more feline victims of the extermination drive being conducted by Port Authority of NY and NJ at JFK Airport were dropped off at animal control this morning.  The one day lull in the culling effort provided rescuers with time to find new locations where these cats can be brought, bringing to 17 the number of cats reprieved from a death sentence.  Leaders of the NYC Feral Cat Initiative, a program of the Mayor's Alliance for NYC's Animals, vowed to fight the Port Authority down to the last cat.  "They want us to disappear just like the cats," said Bryan Kortis of Neighborhood Cats.  "Neither is going to happen."

WHAT YOU CAN DO
This is a marathon - not a sprint.   You are our foot soldiers and there are many thousands of us all over the world - everytime you call, email or fax, you send a loud message that we will not tolerate this senseless killing.  Do not tire or get discouraged but  keep calling and writing - if you get a busy signal, call again.  If the email bounces back, let us know and we'll find another one.  WE MUST NOT LET THEM GET AWAY WITH THIS!! Or others will try to do the same.  (Next Monday, we will announce the time and place of our next major protest.)

WHO TO CONTACT (Note: we've added Gov. Corzine of NJ - he also has some authority over Port Authority).

Anthony R. Coscia, Chairman
Board of Commisioners
Port Authority of New York and New Jersey
Phone: 732.846.2120 (direct line)
732-846-7600 (this is the general number for Mr. Coscia's law firm)
Fax: 732.846.8877
E-Mail: acoscia@windelsmarx.com

Robert E. Wan Etten, Inspector General
Port Authority of New York and New Jersey
Main Office: (973) 565-4340
24-Hour Pager: (917) 788-6277
FAX: (973) 565-4307
Email: InspectorGeneral@panynj.gov

The Honorable Eliot Spitzer, Governor, New York
212-681-4580 (phone)
518-474-1513 (Fax)
Email: go to www.ny.gov and click on "contact us" at the bottom of the page, or use this direct link: http://161.11.121.121/govemail

The Honorable John Corzine, Governor, New Jersey
609-292-6000
Email:  http://www.state.nj.us/governor/govmail.html

The Honorable David Patterson, Lieutenant Governor, New York
518-474-4623
Demand the Governors reject Port Authority's new request for major toll increases on all its bridges, tunnels and subway lines.   If Port Authority has money to burn on killing cats, Ltgovernor.correspondence@chamber.state.ny.us

Port Authority Corporate Headquarters
(212) 435-7000
(212) 435-7777
(get a live person on the line and demand to speak to someone about the JFK situation - keep calling until they respond - they're hiding from the public!)

WHAT TO SAY
1.  Demand a stop to the extermination effort and good faith talks with the Mayor's Alliance for NYC's Animals designed at implementing a pilot TNR project at JFK.

2.  The Inspector General of the Port Authority told callers yesterday that PA is not killing the cats.  That's like saying, "I didn't fire the gun, I only hired the hit man."  PA will be responsible when the dead cats start piling up, not the shelter faced with no choice but to euthanize.

3.  WHEN CALLING THE GOVERNORS OF NY &NJ:

Animal Planet Hero

Topsail Beach, North Carolina resident Jean Beasley is Animal Planet’s HERO OF THE YEAR.  The campaign was a nationwide search and celebration of animal advocates who invest their time, talent and spirit to help animals in their community. She rescues sea turtles. Click here for the link to the contest results.