Crazy for Critters

Help for Feral Cats

On Sunday, September 26, the Clydey Foundation together with the Cat Network, will join forces to help alleviate the feral cat problems on Miami Beach. The plan is to aggressively spay and neuter 80 cats so they can be at a manageable level.

Feral cats have been overpopulating Miami Beach for decades. The problem goes back to 1912 when one of the city's developers brought in cats to control the rat problem that existed at the time.

According to the Clydey Foundation, a manageable level can be accomplished in less than ten years without killing any animals. "The female cats, once you spay them, will not have litters of kittens. Then, we can fix the problem over time," said Sharon Jacobson, who founded the Clydey Foundation.

Funding for this effort includes $20,000 from Chase Bank and $5000 from the City of Miami Beach. The Clydey Foundation needs volunteers and doctors who are willing to donate their time to spay and neuter the stray cats. Additional donations are still needed for this ambitious project at theclydeyfoundation.org.

WHERE:        1245 Michigan Avenue - Flamingo Park, Miami Beach

The exact parking spot will be on the11th Street side of the park just south of the pool and east of the fraternal police building

 

WHEN:           Sunday, September 26

The Clydey Mobile will be arriving at 8:00.

Surgery is planned to begin at 8:30 a.m.

 

Now that it's over...............

The county commission adopted the mayor's proposed budget, which means that Animal Services gets more kennel workers but loses the wonderful Aileen Sanchez, volunteer coordinator. I have to say that I've NEVER gotten so much email on anything, all of it begging to save her job because she saves so many animals. (see just a few comments at the end of the prior post on the subject). Here's the basic letter that Dr. Pizano, head of ASD, sent to many who emailed her, before the vote.

"Thank you for supporting our shelter pets.  Please know that our outreach and volunteer programs will continue to grow stronger as will the events and internet postings.  We are also in negotiations to purchase a new shelter that will, of course, depend on funding so appreciate you speaking out on the desperate need for a new shelter. 

For the past few years, our County has had to face serious budget cuts.  For the current 2009/2010 Fiscal Year, at Animal Services alone, fourteen (14) positions were cut as well as other operational expenses totaling over $1.5 million.  Each cut, including two Assistant Directors, Animal Control Officers, an Investigator, Customer Service staff and clerks had an impact on the Department and the remaining staff had to absorb the workload.  More stray dogs are on the street, investigations take longer and fewer phone calls are answered.  These unavoidable cuts came at a time when more animals than ever before were abandoned at Animal Services, over 37,000.

"Still, our dedicated staff has worked tirelessly and this year more animals will be saved than any year in our history. Many initiatives to decrease shelter intake are underway including the establishment of the Miami Dade Animal Services Foundation that will fund spay/neuter programs and the ASPCA Partnership.  The decisions behind budget cuts have not been easy.  And no matter how big or small, have been heartbreaking to make.  Difficult choices had to be made and for the Fiscal Year 2010/2011, along with other cuts, we are proposing to reclassify the Volunteer Coordinator position into two kennel staff to provide better care for our shelter pets.  The volunteer program and initiatives will continue as other staff absorb those duties such as Pet of the Week postings and email updates.  On behalf of our shelter pets, thank you for caring.''

I know it's not going to be easy to replicate Aileen's level of commitment, but let's all hope for the best.

I'm also interested in getting ideas about how to deal with the big picture in Dade County, given the harsh realities of so many abandoned pets and so little space to house them. It's easy to criticize; it's not so easy to figure out a better way. But if you have ideas, please share them.

AKC Honors Longtime Miami terrier afficionado

MIAMI RESIDENT WINS AMERICAN KENNEL CLUB LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD

New York, NY -- The American Kennel Club^® (AKC) is pleased to announce the winners of the 2011 AKC^® Lifetime Achievement Awards: Walter F. Goodman (Conformation), James J. Ham (Companion Events) and Jo Ann Frier-Murza (Performance). The three recipients will receive engraved silver Revere bowls on Tuesday, December 7, 2010 at the AKC Delegates luncheon held in conjunction with the AKC/Eukanuba National Championship in Long Beach, California. A sterling silver Tiffany and Co. bowl, engraved with the names of all recipients past and present, is on permanent display at AKC headquarters in New York City.

The AKC Lifetime Achievement Awards were created to honor those individuals who have made outstanding contributions to the sport of purebred dogs on a national level. The recipients were selected from votes cast by AKC member clubs for nominees in the categories of Conformation, Companion Events and Performance.

 

Conformation: Walter F. Goodman of Miami, Florida

A breeder-owner-handler of Skye Terriers, Walter Goodman has finished 35 champions, garnering 99 Best in Show awards and more than 300 Terrier Group firsts, including the 1971 Westminster group winner. His Ch. Glamoor Good News won Best in Show at the Garden in 1969. Mr. Goodman is a two-time winner of the Kennel Review Male Owner-Handler of the Year and the Quaker Oats owner-handler award.

 

A judge since 1977, Mr. Goodman is approved for all terriers, the Terrier Group, Toy Manchester Terriers, Best in Show, and Junior Showmanship. He has been a member of the Skye Terrier Club of America for more than 50 years and is a past president and vice president, as well as a member of the Palm Beach Dog Fancier’s Association. Walter is president and chief steward for the Montgomery County Kennel Club, host of the world’s largest annual terrier show. He holds membership in the Westbury Kennel Association, the Westminster Kennel Club, and The Kennel Club (England). 

Since 1988, Walter has served on the AKC Board of Directors, chairing several committees. He is a director of the AKC Museum of the Dog and is on the Board of Overseers of the University of Pennsylvania Veterinary School. Professionally, Walter was a trust officer and assistant vice president at Chase Manhattan Bank, an associate producer for NBC Television and Mike Ellis Productions, and the retired president and senior partner of the Goodman-Flanders company. He graduated from Yale University.

 

Angry about Animal Services budget cuts? Go to Thursday's Budget Meeting

In the face of horrendous budget cuts throughout Miami-Dade County, a respected member of the Animal Services staff - who has been crucial to the significant improvements made at the department in its five years as an independent entity - has lost her job.  And the rescue community is furious. Aileen Sanchez, volunteer coordinator, has been a solid bridge between ASD and the rescuers - a creative thinker whose programs and tactics have contributed mightily to the agency's record adoption rates. More animals than ever are finding homes; fewer are dying in the euthanasia room. No one can argue that this is exactly the direction that ASD should be going.

BUT in such dire times, when there are  no good choices, bad things will happen to good people - and those who remain have to work twice as hard to fill in the gaps. Heaven knows we've seen it at the Herald, where we've had layoff after layoff for two years, pay cuts, and  one unpaid furlough after another. When I came to the Herald in 1989, there were 700 people in the news division producing several editions of a daily newspaper. Now we've got just over 200- and we not only produce a print edition - different in Broward than Miami-Dade - but a website, blogs, Twitter feeds, I-Phone apps and other web-based stuff that a geriatric like myself can't begin to understand. It's no different than a thousand other businesses and public agencies.Is it fair? No. Not to the people who lose their jobs or to the customers of the employers' business.

Here's the relevant language in the proposed budget: The FY 2010-11 Proposed Resource Allocation Plan includes the elimination of one Volunteer Coordinator position ($80,000); the volunteer program will continue to a lesser degree with existing staff and the savings will be utilized to establish two Kennel positions and reclassify six part-time Kennel staff to full-time to assist the Department in dealing with the dramatic increases in owner surrendered animals.

Go here for the whole budget document. http://www.miamidade.gov/budget/FY2010-11/Proposed/pdf/volume2/public_safety/animal_services.pdf

GO TO THURSDAY'S BUDGET MEETING 5 pm, Commission Chambers, Second Floor of the Stephen P. Clark Center, 111 N.W. First Street, Miami. But get there EARLY, otherwise you'll be number 900 on the speaker's list. Also, you can sign in online at the county's website. If you get to talk, keep it short and to the point. Don't waste your precious time with namecalling and accusations. Ranting and raving helps no one .

My personal opinion: We should all support the proposed property tax rollback, which will offset the loss of revenues from property value declines. Do I WANT to pay higher taxes? Of course not. But without that revenue level, Animal Services will be gutted. Every imrpovement made in the past five years falls apart. MORE animals die. Think seriously about the priorities: a few hundred more from your thinning paycheck - or sending Animal Services back to the Dark Ages.And remember: this year alone, 14 ASD workers BEFORE  Aileen already lost their jobs, as ASD lost $1 million from its budget (animal control officers, an investigator, custormer service, etc...)

And - in my opinion - the mayor's proposed budget deserves support. This is NOT a negative commentary on Aileen,  with whom I've worked on major projects for the newspaper. She is a kind, caring person with a huge heart who selflessly gave herself to the animals. She was making $80,000, and in my mind should have been making twice that. Adding her duties to some overworked colleague's job isn't a good strategy, but it's the ONLY strategy under the circumstances. The tradeoff for that position is adding two kennel workers, who deliver direct care to the animals, and getting more hours for the part-time kennel staff. If you hate me for saying this, so be it. (By way of small comfort: I understand that Aileen already has another job, teaching).

Here is the farewell letter from Aileen, Community Outreach & Volunteer Coordinator for MIAMI DADE ANIMAL SERVICES

 Dear Friend of Animal Services,

 It is with a heavy heart I must bid you all a fond farewell. I have tendered my resignation as Volunteer/Adoption Coordinator for Miami Dade Animal Services. As you may have already heard, the position will be eliminated due to budget cuts. My last day will be 9/26/10 for the “Happy 5th Birthday” event.

More importantly, I would like to say thank you and goodbye to the volunteers, the supporters and the rescues. You have been and continue to be an INSPIRATION. Your work and dedication has made a difference and the shelter has made GREAT strides because of it.  Thank you. 

To my wonderful co-workers, thank you for your guidance and support and for all that you do every day to save lives. I wish you all the very best!

Some inspirational quotes below. Whenever you feel discouraged, please read them:

Nobody can do everything, but everyone can do something. Everybody can be great. 

Because anybody can serve.  You don't have to have a college degree to serve.  You don't have to make your subject and your verb agree to serve.... You don't have to know the second theory of thermodynamics in physics to serve.  You only need a heart full of grace.  A soul generated by love.    -Martin Luther King, Jr.

Kindness is the greatest wisdom.

In order to motivate others, you must first become a source of motivation by yourself. It simply means that if you want to get anything done through others, you must first do it yourself.
 
Volunteering is not a choice, it's a responsibility.
 
Love,

Aileen

 

The reaction was swift and intense:

Here are some email letters that went to ASD and the commissioners:

ity is extremely distressed at budget cuts cutting YOU. You have been the most critical, instru

The rescue community is extremely distressed at budget cuts cutting YOU. You have been the most critical, instrumental, creative, dedicated, inspired, passionate employee ever to grace the halls of MDAS.

Volunteerism is at an all-time high with the best trained, innovative programs (to name just one your wonderful "Pet Detectives" club) ever in shelter history. You are an animal lover and rescuer at heart who took on the mantle of working with humans vs. the animals to better the lives and situations for all surrendered, lost, stray, abandoned and homeless pets entering the shelter. No one has made a bigger difference nor left a bigger impact on its animals nor the public than you.

We are writing Dr. Pizano, the commissioners, Mayor Alvarez, the media, and anyone else we can think of to plead your position be spared. Surely between commissioners' budgets, the mayor's, the badly managed, misspent and criminally stolen funds, raises due county workers in 2011 when the rest of the country has had income halved, there is room for Aileen Sanchez' and the HUGE difference your commitment makes to shelter animals, shelter staff, rescuers, the public, shelter volunteers, etc. position to be spared. Adoptions are at an all-time high because of the adoption events and volunteer programs you've put into effect thereby easing the burden of daily routine on paid county workers to allow for more intimate, effective, compassionate and real adopter/pet interactions.

If not for the adoption events and the wonderful volunteers you atract, sign-up, train and monitor folks looking to adopt will be left to wander the halls with no one to guide them and personalize pets' personalities by sharing endearing traits and histories prompting compassion, love at first sight, and ultimately ADOPTIONS. I hate to say the majority of shelter workers' emotions are shut down and not available in the same way volunteers emotions are but it's the truth; with more than 200/animals daily entering the shelter and more than 200/animals daily being killed to make room it's inevitable ... no person's spirit could withstand that level of death and sadness without detaching. Sadly without  you the entire volunteer program will dry up and die just like it had before you breathed life, soul and heart into it; sentient beings warehoused in cages and runs won't stand a chance of being groomed, exercised, played with, nor have their spirits lifted, but will instead sink into depression and despair, not showing up for potential adopters like the life-loving pets they truly are, and will be passed over and taken to Room "A" where their lives will be taken. All because county government couldn't spare ONE POSITION THAT MAKES SUCH A DIFFERENCE IN OUR PUBLIC SHELTER FOR OUR PETS AND THE VOTING PUBLIC.  

We salute you. We love you. The animals NEED you. Don't go quietly into the night by resigning to what's perceived as the inevitable; too many will die without you as their shining star!! 

WE ARE GOING TO FIGHT FOR YOUR POSTION TO BE RETAINED!

 

I experienced first-hand Aileen's impact on shelter ambiance when I was escorted to West Wing to look at a rottie 3-months ago by a wonderful African-American woman whose daughter practically lives at the shelter after her school day ends and every weekend. The mother's smile, upbeat attitude, willingness to take me anywhere I needed to go, encouragement, familiarity with the dogs, etc. all added to my experience can you imagine how much she adds to every-day adopters who aren't as familiar with the shelter as I am? (The daughter adopted a ferrret of all things that very same day that someone brought to the shelter to be rehomed!)

 I hear so many negatives about MDAS from the public most particularly about the shelter's staff's atttitudes; they're calloused, unhelpful, curt, short, rude, disrespectful, hang up on people, tell them "it's not my job," etc. If EVERY worker were like Aileen the place would be so much better!! That's why her volunteer program has made such a difference since she was hired to head it; she has turned the volunteer program into an army of animal saviors. THAT'S why adoptions are up! She's also who's responsible for the quarterly adoption events which are huge successes.

Retaining Aileen should be of the utmost, highest importance to you and Dr. Pizano. She is an amazing asset in helping achieve the goals MDAS sets for attaining a no-kill status, increasing adoptions, public awareness, volunteers, etc. Dr. Pizano has apparently stated that you will take on Aileen's duties; you do not have time to do all that Aileen does! You're already like a one-armed paper hanger you haven't time to take on what she does hence the volunteer program, adoption events and animals' lives will all suffer not because you're not competent, but because you aren't cloneable!

WE NEED AILEEN'S POSITION TO BE RETAINED WITH HER IN IT!! The entire rescue community, your volunteer army, and many more are at stake for Aileen for the animals' sakes. She is only resigning because she knows her position is eliminated. How can we convince you and Dr. Pizano to "un-eliminate" it and find something else to balance the budget with?

What is wrong with you commissioners?  You pay for a stadium out of our (Tax Payer Money), let the people that make the millions use their OWN money NOT OURS ESPECIALLY NOW .  Yet you decide to cut Aileen Sanchez’s positions, the one the saves more animals than anyone at ASU.  Cut some of the positions of the ones that make the most $$$$$.  Who decided to eliminate her position? ……. You all make me sick.  When was the last time you went to animal services to see the animals being euthanized….puppies, healthy dogs, etc.  Do something to the people.  The excuses I am moving..  You take the kids right.  Don’t give me the excuses that they cannot afford any longer. (with their BMW’s, Lexus, Caddy’s etc.).   They killed (PTS) the animals way before this crisis.  We are a Third World Country.  Dade County Florida.  Why don’t you get your bleeding heart attorney’s that work for you.  Get rid of a few of them and save Aileen’s position.  I have lived here for 53 years…..used to love it here…..the answer is GREED GREED GREED……EVERYONE THAT DOES NOT CARE ABOUT THESE ANIMALS WILL SEE THEM SOMEDAY. 

 

Another,anThe animals NEED you. Don't go
quietly into the night by resigning to what's perceived as the
inevitable; too many will die without you as their shining star!!
 WE ARE GOING TO FIGHT FOR YOUR POSTION TO BE RETAINED!
Aileen,
 The rescue community is extremely distressed at budget cuts
cutting YOU. You have been the most critical, instrumental,
creative, dedicated, inspired, passionate employee ever to grace
the halls of MDAS.  Volunteerism is at an all-time high with the
best trained, innovative programs (to name just one your
wonderful "Pet Detectives" club) ever in shelter history. You are
an animal lover and rescuer at heart who took on the mantle of
working with humans vs. the animals to better the lives and
situations for all surrendered, lost, stray, abandoned and
homeless pets entering the shelter. No one has made a bigger
difference nor left a bigger impact on its animals nor the public
than you.
 We are writing Dr. Pizano, the commissioners, Mayor Alvarez, the
media, and anyone else we can think of to plead your position be
spared. Surely between commissioners' budgets, the mayor's, the
badly managed, misspent and criminally stolen funds, raises due
county workers in 2011 when the rest of the country has had
income halved, there is room for Aileen Sanchez' and the HUGE
difference your commitment makes to shelter animals, shelter
staff, rescuers, the public, shelter volunteers, etc. position to
be spared. Adoptions are at an all-time high because of the
adoption events and volunteer programs you've put into effect
thereby easing the burden of daily routine on paid county workers
to allow for more intimate, effective, compassionate and real
adopter/pet interactions.
 If not for the adoption events and the wonderful volunteers you
atract, sign-up, train and monitor folks looking to adopt will be
left to wander the halls with no one to guide them and
personalize pets' personalities by sharing endearing traits and
histories prompting compassion, love at first sight, and
ultimately ADOPTIONS. I hate to say the majority of shelter
workers' emotions are shut down and not available in the same way
volunteers emotions are but it's the truth; with more than
200/animals daily entering the shelter and more than 200/animals
daily being killed to make room it's inevitable ... no person's
spirit could withstand that level of death and sadness without
detaching. Sadly without  you the entire volunteer program will
dry up and die just like it had before you breathed life, soul
and heart into it; sentient beings warehoused in cages and runs
won't stand a chance of being groomed, exercised, played with,
nor have their spirits lifted, but will instead sink into
depression and despair, not showing up for potential adopters
like the life-loving pets they truly are, and will be passed over
and taken to Room "A" where their lives will be taken. All
because county government couldn't spare ONE POSITION THAT MAKES
SUCH A DIFFERENCE IN OUR PUBLIC SHELTER FOR OUR PETS AND THE
VOTING PUBLIC. 
 We salute you. We love you. The animals NEED you. Don't go
quietly into the night by resigning to what's perceived as the
inevitable; too many will die without you as their shining star!!
 WE ARE GOING TO FIGHT FOR YOUR POSTION TO BE RETAINED!
 

    Aileen,
 The rescue community is extremely distressed at budget cuts
cutting YOU. You have been the most critical, instrumental,
creative, dedicated, inspired, passionate employee ever to grace
the halls of MDAS.  Volunteerism is at an all-time high with the
best trained, innovative programs (to name just one your
wonderful "Pet Detectives" club) ever in shelter history. You are
an animal lover and rescuer at heart who took on the mantle of
working with humans vs. the animals to better the lives and
situations for all surrendered, lost, stray, abandoned and
homeless pets entering the shelter. No one has made a bigger
difference nor left a bigger impact on its animals nor the public
than you.
 We are writing Dr. Pizano, the commissioners, Mayor Alvarez, the
media, and anyone else we can think of to plead your position be
spared. Surely between commissioners' budgets, the mayor's, the
badly managed, misspent and criminally stolen funds, raises due
county workers in 2011 when the rest of the country has had
income halved, there is room for Aileen Sanchez' and the HUGE
difference your commitment makes to shelter animals, shelter
staff, rescuers, the public, shelter volunteers, etc. position to
be spared. Adoptions are at an all-time high because of the
adoption events and volunteer programs you've put into effect
thereby easing the burden of daily routine on paid county workers
to allow for more intimate, effective, compassionate and real
adopter/pet interactions.
 If not for the adoption events and the wonderful volunteers you
atract, sign-up, train and monitor folks looking to adopt will be
left to wander the halls with no one to guide them and
personalize pets' personalities by sharing endearing traits and
histories prompting compassion, love at first sight, and
ultimately ADOPTIONS. I hate to say the majority of shelter
workers' emotions are shut down and not available in the same way
volunteers emotions are but it's the truth; with more than
200/animals daily entering the shelter and more than 200/animals
daily being killed to make room it's inevitable ... no person's
spirit could withstand that level of death and sadness without
detaching. Sadly without  you the entire volunteer program will
dry up and die just like it had before you breathed life, soul
and heart into it; sentient beings warehoused in cages and runs
won't stand a chance of being groomed, exercised, played with,
nor have their spirits lifted, but will instead sink into
depression and despair, not showing up for potential adopters
like the life-loving pets they truly are, and will be passed over
and taken to Room "A" where their lives will be taken. All
because county government couldn't spare ONE POSITION THAT MAKES
SUCH A DIFFERENCE IN OUR PUBLIC SHELTER FOR OUR PETS AND THE
VOTING PUBLIC. 
 We salute you. We love you. The animals NEED you. Don't go
quietly into the night by resigning to what's perceived as the
inevitable; too many will die without you as their shining star!!
 WE ARE GOING TO FIGHT FOR YOUR POSTION TO BE RETAINED!
 

The rescue community is extremely distressed at budget cuts cutting YOU. You have been the most critical, instrumental, creative, dedicated, inspired, passionate employee ever to grace the halls of MDAS.

 

Volunteerism is at an all-time high with the best trained, innovative programs (to name just one your wonderful "Pet Detectives" club) ever in shelter history. You are an animal lover and rescuer at heart who took on the mantle of working with humans vs. the animals to better the lives and situations for all surrendered, lost, stray, abandoned and homeless pets entering the shelter. No one has made a bigger difference nor left a bigger impact on its animals nor the public than you.

 

We are writing Dr. Pizano, the commissioners, Mayor Alvarez, the media, and anyone else we can think of to plead your position be spared. Surely between commissioners' budgets, the mayor's, the badly managed, misspent and criminally stolen funds, raises due county workers in 2011 when the rest of the country has had income halved, there is room for Aileen Sanchez' and the HUGE difference your commitment makes to shelter animals, shelter staff, rescuers, the public, shelter volunteers, etc. position to be spared. Adoptions are at an all-time high because of the adoption events and volunteer programs you've put into effect thereby easing the burden of daily routine on paid county workers to allow for more intimate, effective, compassionate and real adopter/pet interactions.

 

If not for the adoption events and the wonderful volunteers you atract, sign-up, train and monitor folks looking to adopt will be left to wander the halls with no one to guide them and personalize pets' personalities by sharing endearing traits and histories prompting compassion, love at first sight, and ultimately ADOPTIONS. I hate to say the majority of shelter workers' emotions are shut down and not available in the same way volunteers emotions are but it's the truth; with more than 200/animals daily entering the shelter and more than 200/animals daily being killed to make room it's inevitable ... no person's spirit could withstand that level of death and sadness without detaching. Sadly without  you the entire volunteer program will dry up and die just like it had before you breathed life, soul and heart into it; sentient beings warehoused in cages and runs won't stand a chance of being groomed, exercised, played with, nor have their spirits lifted, but will instead sink into depression and despair, not showing up for potential adopters like the life-loving pets they truly are, and will be passed over and taken to Room "A" where their lives will be taken. All because county government couldn't spare ONE POSITION THAT MAKES SUCH A DIFFERENCE IN OUR PUBLIC SHELTER FOR OUR PETS AND THE VOTING PUBLIC.  

 

We salute you. We love you. The animals NEED you. Don't go quietly into the night by resigning to what's perceived as the inevitable; too many will die without you as their shining star!!

 

WE ARE GOING TO FIGHT FOR YOUR POSTION TO BE RETAINED!

 

mental, creative, dedicated, inspired, passionate employee ever to grace the halls of MDAS.

 

Volunteerism is at an all-time high with the best trained, innovative programs (to name just one your wonderful "Pet Detectives" club) ever in shelter history. You are an animal lover and rescuer at heart who took on the mantle of working with humans vs. the animals to better the lives and situations for all surrendered, lost, stray, abandoned and homeless pets entering the shelter. No one has made a bigger difference nor left a bigger impact on its animals nor the public than you.

 

We are writing Dr. Pizano, the commissioners, Mayor Alvarez, the media, and anyone else we can think of to plead your position be spared. Surely between commissioners' budgets, the mayor's, the badly managed, misspent and criminally stolen funds, raises due county workers in 2011 when the rest of the country has had income halved, there is room for Aileen Sanchez' and the HUGE difference your commitment makes to shelter animals, shelter staff, rescuers, the public, shelter volunteers, etc. position to be spared. Adoptions are at an all-time high because of the adoption events and volunteer programs you've put into effect thereby easing the burden of daily routine on paid county workers to allow for more intimate, effective, compassionate and real adopter/pet interactions.

 

If not for the adoption events and the wonderful volunteers you atract, sign-up, train and monitor folks looking to adopt will be left to wander the halls with no one to guide them and personalize pets' personalities by sharing endearing traits and histories prompting compassion, love at first sight, and ultimately ADOPTIONS. I hate to say the majority of shelter workers' emotions are shut down and not available in the same way volunteers emotions are but it's the truth; with more than 200/animals daily entering the shelter and more than 200/animals daily being killed to make room it's inevitable ... no person's spirit could withstand that level of death and sadness without detaching. Sadly without  you the entire volunteer program will dry up and die just like it had before you breathed life, soul and heart into it; sentient beings warehoused in cages and runs won't stand a chance of being groomed, exercised, played with, nor have their spirits lifted, but will instead sink into depression and despair, not showing up for potential adopters like the life-loving pets they truly are, and will be passed over and taken to Room "A" where their lives will be taken. All because county government couldn't spare ONE POSITION THAT MAKES SUCH A DIFFERENCE IN OUR PUBLIC SHELTER FOR OUR PETS AND THE VOTING PUBLIC.  

 

We salute you. We love you. The animals NEED you. Don't go quietly into the night by resigning to what's perceived as the inevitable; too many will die without you as their shining star!!

 

WE ARE GOING TO FIGHT FOR YOUR POSTION TO BE RETAINED!

Scott Logan |

uer__

   

PETFINDER.COM KICKS OFF ADOPT-A-LESS-ADOPTABLE-PET WEEK SEPTEMBER 19 – 25

 

Survey Uncovers that 95 Percent of Shelters and Rescue Groups Have Pets That They Are Having Extreme Difficulty Placing in a Home 

 

Silver Spring, MD – What if people were denied a loving home because they had dark-colored hair or were considered to be too old? According to a recent survey by Petfinder.com, the largest online database of adoptable pets, 95 percent of shelters and rescue groups currently have adoptable pets for which they are having extreme difficulty finding a home. In fact, 33 percent said they have had adoptable pets listed on Petfinder.com for one to two years, and an additional 27 percent said they have cared for pets that have been homeless even longer.

 

So that no pet is overlooked simply because of their age, breed or even the color of their fur, Petfinder.com is kicking off Adopt-A-Less-Adoptable-Pet Week from September 19 – 25 to help find homes for these loveable animals and bring awareness to the issue. So far, more than 500 shelters and rescue groups in Petfinder.com’s network are planning to participate. 

 

“It breaks my heart to think that some pets are homeless for years when they are just as wonderful as the younger, fluffier puppy next to them. These overlooked pets often make great additions to a family – but many people don’t even realize they are discriminating when they begin looking to adopt,” said Betsy Banks Saul, the co-founder of Petfinder.com. “The goal of this initiative is to bring the issue to the forefront and help find forever homes for these special animals.”

 

Petfinder.com launched the first ever Adopt-A-Less-Adoptable-Pet Day in 2009, and extended this year’s initiative to a full week so that more less adoptable pets will be given the chance to find a loving home. Petfinder.com will also be featuring a gallery of “less adoptable” pets on its website during the weeklong event to highlight just how many pets need to be given a chance. While the gallery is not intended to be searchable, visitors can log onto Petfinder.com and type in their zip code to find adoptable pets at their local shelters or rescue groups.

 

More details can be found at http://www.petfinder.com/lessadoptablepetweek.

 

For additional information or to speak with the co-founder of Petfinder.com, Betsy Saul, contact Katy Layton at 917-595-3057 or klayton@cooperkatz.com.

 

 About Petfinder.com:

Petfinder.com is an online, searchable database of animals that need permanent homes. A directory of over 13,500 animal shelters and adoption organizations across the USA, Canada and Mexico, the organization’s technology helps visitors search adoptable pets in their areas that fit their family’s individual needs and preferences. In addition, Petfinder.com also offers a wealth of information about how to select a family pet and how to raise and care for an animal. The Web site is free to use. Animal shelters and placement groups can register to join Petfinder.com online and can start entering pets the same day. Petfinder.com was named one of TIME Magazine’s 50 Best Web Sites of 2008 and was awarded a People's Voice Webby Award in 2009 for its mobile interface, Petfinder.com Mobile.

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FIVE CANINE HEROES HONORED WITH AKC® HUMANE FUND AWARDS FOR CANINE EXCELLENCE (ACE)

Recipients Include a Rescue Dog Turned Search and Rescue Hero, a Westminster Best in Show Winner and a Surfing Dog! (Click here for photos)

New York, NY – The AKC® Humane Fund announced the winners of the 11th annual AKC Humane Fund Awards for Canine Excellence (ACE), which commemorates five loyal, hard-working dogs that have made significant contributions to their communities in each of the following five categories: Exemplary Companion Dog, Search and Rescue, Law Enforcement, Therapy and Service.

“The AKC Humane Fund Awards for Canine Excellence celebrate what dogs contribute to our lives and these five exceptional recipients exemplify the heroic acts canines can accomplish,” said Lisa Peterson AKC spokesperson. “Their inspiring stories serve as an example of the canine-human bond and the impact a single dog can make in a community.”

All the ACE recipients will receive $1,000 and an engraved sterling silver medallion at the nationally televised AKC/Eukanuba National Championship in Long Beach, California on December 5, 2010. In addition they will be honored individually at local events. The New York and New Jersey ACE winners will have their local ceremony and be available for a public meet and greet during Meet the Breeds*on October 16-17, 2010 at the Jacob Javits Center in NYC.

This year’s ACE winners include:

Search and Rescue Dog: “Cassius” owned by Peter Taft of Brooklyn, NY. Once a shelter dog and now trained for Search and Rescue work, Cassius and owner Peter have been deployed by or worked closely with many organizations, including the Bedford Stuyvesant Volunteer Ambulance Corps, Louisiana State EMS Boat Team Search and Rescue, and the United States Army Airborne. The two also served during Hurricanes Ivan and Katrina and in Haiti during the aftermath of the recent earthquake. While Peter performed paramedic work in Haiti, Cassius, also a certified Therapy dog, provided comfort to both victims and volunteers of the tragedy. The team received Congressional Commendations for their exceptional work.

Therapy Dog: “Rufus” owned by Thomas and Barbara Bishop of Holmdel, NJ. Rufus performs equally as well in show ring as he does in the community – he’s the top-winning Bull Terrier of all time as well as an exceptional Therapy dog. Since retiring from the show ring, Rufus has spent countless hours spreading happiness and cheer at schools, senior citizen programs and nursing-rehabilitation centers. He also received a special invitation to visit injured soldiers at the Walter Reed Army Medical Center.

Service Dog: “Wyatt” owned by Janice Wolfe of Wyckoff, NJ. While most Service Dogs typically work with just one person, Wyatt, a Rhodesian Ridgeback, has worked with hundreds. His breeder/owner Janice Wolfe is the founder and director of Merlin’s Kids, an organization that places dogs with autistic and developmentally disabled children. Wyatt’s affinity for children and his remarkable patience allows Janice to determine if a Service dog is right for a particular child.

Law Enforcement Dog: “Nike” owned by Senior Corporal Mark Tobin, New Castle County Police of New Castle, DE. Nike, an 11-year old German Shepherd Dog, spent ten years serving the 500,000 citizens of New Castle County, Delaware, with his partner, Senior Corporal Mark Tobin. This decade of service resulted in 161 apprehensions and the seizure of 1.6 million dollars worth of drugs. Nike also used his tracking skills to find an Alzheimer’s patient who had wandered away from home and a six-year old autistic boy lost in 97 degree heat, among many others.

Exemplary Companion Dog: “Ricochet” owned by Judy Fridono of Escondido, CA. When Golden Retriever Ricochet was dropped from Service Dog training due to her distractible nature, owner Judy Fridono decided to focus their efforts on something Ricochet could do – surf! This wave-loving Golden now surfs for charitable causes, and has raised more than $10,000 for a quadriplegic boy’s rehab as well as funds to purchase toys for 630 children at hospitals and women’s shelters during a Christmas toy drive.

To view photos and stories about the 2010 AKC Humane Fund ACE recipients and honorable mentions visit: http://www.akc.org/news/ace/2010/honorees.cfm

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The AKC Humane Fundsm, founded by the American Kennel Club® in 2008, was created to unite a broad spectrum of animal lovers in promoting the joy and value of responsible pet ownership through education, outreach and grant-making. Through its programs, the AKC Humane Fund’s goals are to: support Parent Club Rescue activities; assist shelters for domestic abuse victims that permit pets; provide resources for responsible dog ownership education; contribute to non-profit organizations that support its mission. Contributions to the AKC Humane Fund are fully tax deductible as allowed by law under Section 501(c)(3) of the IRS Code.

About Meet the Breeds -- With 160 dog breeds and 41 cat breeds, plus demonstrations, shopping and children’s activities, no pet lover will want to miss Meet the Breeds hosted by the American Kennel Club and Cat Fancier’s Association. Each breed will be presented in its own designated space, decorated to reflect its heritage, characteristics and unique attributes as a pet, while allowing attendees to literally “Meet the Breeds” by petting dogs, cats, puppies and kittens and learning about them directly from the experts. The event is proudly presented by PetPartners, Inc. a leading pet healthcare provider, and will feature more than 120,000 square feet of dog and cat festivities. Sponsors include Invisible Fence® Brand; Pet Brands, Inc.; P&G Pet Care, Iams; Motel 6; ADT Security Services, Inc.; LubriSyn CA; AOL Paw Nation; Hill’s Science Diet Small & Toy Breed dog food; TD Bank, N.A.; American Pet Products Association; Dog.com; GoPetFriendly.com; Dr. Elsey’s Precious Cat Litter; Paramount Chemical Specialties, Inc.; Royal Canin; Petmate; JAKKS Pacific, Inc.; Sturdi Products and World’s Best Cat Litter.  For more information visit www.meetthebreeds.com.

The American Kennel Club (AKC) proudly celebrated its 125th Anniversary in 2009. Since 1884 the not-for-profit organization has maintained the largest registry of purebred dogs in the world, and today its rules govern more than 20,000 canine competitions each year. The AKC is dedicated to upholding the integrity of its registry, promoting the sport of purebred dogs and breeding for type and function. Along with its nearly 5,000 licensed and member clubs and its affiliated organizations, the AKC advocates for the purebred dog as a family companion, advances canine health and well-being, works to protect the rights of all dog owners and promotes responsible dog ownership. Affiliate AKC organizations include the AKC Humane Fund, AKC Canine Health Foundation, AKC Companion Animal Recovery and the AKC Museum of the Dog. For more information, visit www.akc.org.

AKC, American Kennel Club, the American Kennel Club seal and design, and all associated marks and logos are trademarks, registered trademarks and service marks of The American Kennel Club, Inc.

I'm all for it

OCTOBER IS ADOPT A SHELTER DOG MONTH!

 

Helpful tips from noted veterinarian to successfully bring a shelter dog into the home, plus a discount on all-natural pet products.

 

According to the ASPCA, approximately 8-12 million dogs enter shelters nationwide each year. More than half are euthanized due to a lack of space or resources To raise awareness of the unfortunate situation of shelter animals across the country, October has been deemed Adopt-A-Shelter-Dog month.

 

 

PetAlive (www.petalive.com), the world’s number-one online provider of all-natural homeopathic health & wellness remedies for pets, is celebrating Adopt-A-Shelter-Dog month by offering 15% off any pet care purchase during the entire month of October.

 

Along with noted veterinarian, Dr. Gary Edelson, DVM, PetAlive has compiled a list of helpful tips for anyone who is considering adopting a dog to help ensure that the new addition to the household is happy, well adjusted and healthy.

 

1. Do plenty of research prior to adopting a particular breed. This can give a reasonable estimated cost of maintenance, feeding, and help identify any characteristic health problems which may require special care.
2. Adopt for the right reasons. From the lovable Dalmatians in the children’s movie to the cute Chihuahua in the Taco Bell commercials, animals portrayed in the media are often pursued shortly after their time in the spotlight. While some of pets find life-long happy homes, many end up in shelters once the next fad comes along.
3. Wait it out. Make sure the decision to bring a new pet into the home is appropriate for your lifestyle and carefully considered, factoring in work hours, community housing regulations, and other pets in the household.
4. Look past the puppies. Many people want to nurture a cute puppy, but this often leaves the older dogs behind, who may really need your love and support! Don’t forget, young puppies are often prone to chewing and accidents, so an older dog might really suit your lifestyle better, anyway.
5. Spend time at a shelter. You may be surprised that the breed you were initially most drawn to can change after you get to see the dogs in action. Once you do find a dog you may want to take home, play with him or her (especially if you have children) to see how the interaction goes.
6. Schedule a checkup with a veterinarian. Due to their prior living conditions, many shelter dogs need extra care in addition to regular vaccinations. Natural herbal and homeopathic remedies can help restore balance in the body to provide both safe, effective fast-acting symptom relief and improve body function for long-term health.
7. Prepare your home. Don’t wait until you bring the dog home to stock up on supplies, including leash, collar, bowls, etc.
8. Purchase pet insurance. Research and planning can’t protect your dog (and your wallet) from accidentally swallowing a toy or having an allergic reaction to a new food, but most emergency vet costs can be significantly cut by insurance.
9. Timing is everything. If and when you do decide to get a new dog, give your pet some time to acclimate to his or her new surroundings. Many shelters suggest adopting on a weekend or when you can be sure to have time at home with your new dog.
10. Be patient! Problematic behaviors are often caused by underlying issues, which can usually be resolved by training combined with some extra love and TLC.

 

Difficult picture to see, but take a deep breath

This beautiful cat somehow was chemically burned. I don't even want to think about the possibility that someone did it on purpose. In any case, he's going to be all right and needs a home. Here's the info I received:

This handsome young boy was dumped in a parking lot with ferals after being chemically burned. Then he lay in paper towels or something that got moist either with his body fluids or the rain & skin started growing on top of it before we could catch him. Finally got him last night & spent the night scraping & disinfecting him.

Well if he was feral,.....feral no more!  He is now convinced people are just awesome & they don't make kitties any sweeter than that!  

Needs a good home.  Normal adoption procedures along with meet & greet will be made to insure a match made in heaven for both human & kitty!
Contact me at blichy@hotmail.com or 305-308-7272

Happy Birthday ASD!

ANIMAL SERVICES CELEBRATES its 5^th anniversary with a pet adoption party

(MIAMI, September 13^th, 2010) – Animal Services invites you to celebrate its 5^th Anniversary with a Pet Adoption Party on Sunday, September 26^th, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.   The adoption celebration will be held at the Animal Services Shelter located at 7401 NW 74 Street, Miami, FL 33166.

 This Pet Adoption Party will give residents the opportunity to adopt dogs and cats who are in need of a loving home and find true unconditional love.  Anyone who adopts a pet at the event will receive a complimentary picture with their new family member. 

 WHAT:      Happy 5^th Anniversary Pet Adoption Party

 WHO:        Miami-Dade Animal Services Department

 WHEN:      Sunday, September 26^th, 2010 – 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

 WHERE:    Miami-Dade Animal Services Shelter - 7401 NW 74 ST - Miami, FL 33166 

 Adoption Requirements:  Interested adopters must be at least 18 years old.  Adoption fees apply, including a $50 refundable deposit if pet is not yet spayed or neutered.  Only Miami-Dade County residents may adopt pets under the spay/neuter agreement.

 Attendance is free and open to the public. Donations of dog and/or cat toys are appreciated.  It is the policy of Miami-Dade County to comply with all of the requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act.  The facility is accessible.  For sign language interpreters, assistive listening devices or materials in accessible format, please call 305 884-1102, ext 255, at least five days in advance.

 Adoption Gift Certificates are also available.  If you are thinking about giving a pet to someone as a present, you may purchase an Adoption Gift Certificate so they choose the pet best for their lifestyle.

Donation Gift Certificates are ideal presents for any occasion.  It’s the perfect gift for everyone and a gift that will help the shelter animals.

K9 Heroes of 9-11

Click here for a great video tribute to the brave search-and-rescue dogs who worked the World Trade Center site in the hours and days after the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attack. I was in NYC that day, purely by chance, and remained at or near Ground Zero for several days. I watched these fearless canines do their jobs - watched them limp into the vet tent with cut and burned paws, watched the volunteer vets and the dogs' loving handlers tenderly treat their injuries, watched the dogs strain to get back to work despite the pain. I will never forget the anxious concern in the eyes of dogs that wanted so desperately to find a survivor in the wreckage. There were none, so after awhile, firefighters had to pretend to be victims so the dogs wouldn't become demoralized, thinking they'd failed. In a place of such profound sadness, seeing a dog unearth a 'survivor' was a moment of bittersweet relief.