Ellie Brecher is a general assignment reporter for The Miami Herald. Email her at pets@miamiherald.com.
Pet lady: That's my role in the Miami Herald newsroom. I've been here since 1989, during which time I've had eight dogs, a ring-necked parakeet, a chicken, and a lizard named Lance. At the moment, I've got four dogs, two step-dogs, and two cockatiels. A native New Yorker, I came here from Louisville, Ky. I'm a graduate of the University of Arizona, and had a Nieman Fellowship at Harvard in 1988. I have written 233 stories containing the word 'dog' in the past 17 years.
Saturday July 19, 2008
Saturday morning and late afternoon
Where: Blanch Dog Park on the corner of Shipping & Mary in Coconut Grove.
We are selling Lupine leashes & collars, as well as some baked good and t'shirts. The dog leashes and collars are drastically cheaper than are being sold in pet stores and every purchase gets a free cookie!
All proceeds will go to help the animals!
From Aileen Sanchez, who coordinates volunteer activities (among other things) at the Miami-Dade shelter.
"Chuchi, a gray Miniature Schnauzer, was found roaming the streets. She was brought to Animal Services and impounded as a stray. Melissa [the volunteer] reviews the ads of lost dogs listed on two websites: Craig’s List and Dog Detective.com. She compares that information to the postings on Animal Services - website photos and ads. Chuchi’s ad photo was small so Melissa wasn’t sure if it was the same dog. She contacted the owner to let her know there was a gray Schnauzer at Animal Services with a pink collar similar to the one described in her ad. Owners went to Animal Services to see if it was their Chuchi.
When the dog was brought out to the shelter lobby, the owners were elated to see it was Chuchi! Immediately, Chuchi rushed to them, gave them kisses, did flips and ran in circles with joy! Chuchi was finally going home thanks to the help of a volunteer who cared.
You, too, can help reunite pets with their owners! If you are interested, please contact asanche@miamidade.gov for training in Lost & Found.
The AC went kaput at the shelter, so there's a need for emergency cash and, in the meantime, fans:
MIAMI, FLA--(July 9, 2008, As outside temperatures soar into the high 90s in South Florida, the inside temperature is escalating into the 90s at the Humane Society of Greater Miami Adopt-A-Pet’s Soffer and Fine Adoption Center due to a irreparable air conditioning system. The Humane Society of Greater Miami is making an urgent plea to the South Florida community to help its own today.
“In our 70 plus year history we have rarely issued a plea to the community but we are in desperate need to help the 200 animals in our care,” says Emily Marquez-Dulin, Executive Director of the Humane Society of Greater Miami Adopt-A-Pet. “We are calling out to companies and individuals to help us raise the $85,000 needed to purchase and install a new air conditioning system. We have raised $13,000 thus far.”
The Humane Society of Greater Miami also urges the community if they are interested in adopting animals from right here at their local community shelter now is the time. “Our cats are most affected and we need potential adopters to please visit our shelter as soon as possible,” added Marquez-Dulin. “Also those interested in fostering cats or dogs during this crisis are asked to contact our shelter.”
The Humane Society of Greater Miami Adopt-A-Pet Soffer and Fine Adoption Center is located at 16101 West Dixie Highway in North Miami Beach. The shelter is open Tuesday-Sunday from 11am until 7pm.
Art Auction Presented by Miami Veterinary Specialists and
artist Darek Pala to Benefit "Karmela's Fund".
There are 10 one-of-a-kind dog paintings available (oils on
canvas). Bidding for each piece starts at $1,000, now through
August 15, 2008.
Last year, more than 34,000 Miami area animals were brought to
Miami-Dade Animal Services. Many times, pets are surrendered
because of serious injuries or complicated medical conditions.
This makes them nearly impossible to adopt.
To help save these pets, Miami Veterinary Specialists is
teaming up with world renowned artist Darek Pala to offer the
îîKarmela's Fund.'' The fund will assist four Miami area shelters
and rescues to care for sick pets that require specialty
veterinary care. The project will allow more pets to be adopted.
VIEW PAINTINGS IN PERSON: Miami Veterinary Specialists 8601
Sunset Drive Miami, FL 33143 (305) 665-2820. Viewing Hours:
Monday through Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. and Saturdays
from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. To see them online and learn more about the fund, go to mvhospital.com.
To make a bid by phone, please contact Robbie at Miami
Veterinary Specialists at 305-665-2820.
To make a donation to Karmela's Fund, please contact Dr. Juan
Sardinas at 305-665-2820.
Fannie's Story Hour will be held at 11:30 a.m. Saturday, June 21, at Spellbound Books, 107 N. Krome Ave. in Homestead. Children of all ages and adults are welcome.
Not if you go to the Siberian Husky Rescue dog wash tomorrow (Saturday):
Back by Popular Demand!
Charity Dog Wash
Sat, June 7th 10am-3:00pm
in the parking lot of VCA Hillsboro Animal Hospital
4181 W. Hillsboro Blvd.
(just east of Lyons Rd. in Coconut Creek)
Come join us for this fun filled event!
Enjoy music while your pooch gets a posh bathing and brushing.
Other activities include: items for sale,
While there ask how you can adopt/foster a Husky!
$10 a dog $5 for Nail Trimming
Sponsored by our friends at:
VCA Hillsboro Animal Hospital
You know, you think you've heard it all, then you hear something like this: the intentional starvation of a white German shepherd named Ella in March. The only good news to come out of this is the following:
The Central Brevard Humane Society will have a dedication and ribbon cutting ceremony for their new Dog Walk, in the memory of Ella (the 1-year old white German shepherd from Cocoa who starved to death after being abandoned by her owner) on Wednesday, June 18th, at the Shelter located at 1020 Cox Road in Cocoa, beginning at 5 p.m. - the public is invited to attend.
Ella’s Walk will be a beautiful and private walking area for any individual and their pet to come and enjoy a calming and tranquil place while being surrounded by the natural beauty of Florida. The pathway will include an archway at the entrance, benches, large potted plants, paving stones and pet waste receptacle stations. There will be opportunities for individuals to personalize any of the items in Ella’s Walk - ‘In Memory’ of their own pet or loved one.
This ‘labor of love’ (Ella’s Walk) was started by some students from the University of Central Florida, and the trail was developed by Cameron Pinkosky with the Boy Scouts of America, Troop # 701, Cape Canaveral as his Eagle Scout Leadership Service Project. It has taken over 200 man hours to turn this ‘dream into a reality’.
Please help keep the memory of Ella alive and in our hearts! For more information or to make a donation to this worthy cause, please contact the Central Brevard Humane Society at (321) 636-3343.
Now here's the backstory-- you'll need a strong stomach. From Pet-Abuse.com:
A Cocoa woman, who neighbors said loved her dog, abandoned him in a crate for two months and then told investigators she knew it would starve to death. Cocoa police on March 13 arrested Christine Dawn Abrams, 29, on a charge of cruelty to animals in the death of her two-year-old German Shepherd, Ella. She is at the Brevard County Jail and faces a $1,000 bond. Neighbors told police they were concerned that they had not seen Abrams or Ella for several months. "It was unusual for Abrams to be away from her home for any length of time," neighbors said. One neighbor peeked through a window of Abrams' home on Peachtree Street and spotted the dead canine inside a locked metal crate. Police searched for Abrams for five hours and found her at a new address on Parapet Drive, less than six miles from her former residence.
Abrams told detectives that the water had been turned off at the house in January and she had to move. She locked Ella in a crate at the old home because her new roommate did not like dogs. Abrams told the detectives that she knew what would happen if Ella was left without food or water for an extended period of time, the report shows. "Abrams showed no remorse over the dog," the police report shows. Cocoa Police Department spokeswoman Barbara Matthews said "this was a dog that was current on all of his shots. All she had to do was leave the door open." Police added that there was a bag of dry dog food just a few feet from the dog's locked crate.
LOW COST MICROCHIPPING AT MIAMI-DADE COUNTY ANIMAL SERVICES
DEPARTMENT
You can save your pet's life by implanting a microchip! During
National Pet Week, May 5 to 9, 2008, the South Florida Veterinary
Medical Association (SFVMA), participating veterinarians and
Miami-Dade Animal Services will offer low cost microchipping to
help reunite pets with their owners.
"Last year, more than 34,000 pets were left at Miami-Dade
Animal Services. Over 20,000 were strays with no form of
identification, making it impossible to reunite them with their
beloved families," said Dr. Sara Pizano, Director of Miami-Dade
Animal Services.
"The few pets with microchips or tags had old information and
the owners couldn't be reached, added Dr. Pizano. Sadly, less
than 1% of the pets at Animal Services are reunited with their
families. You can change that!"
Local veterinarians and Miami-Dade Animal Services are proud
to participate in this joint venture to microchip as many pets as
possible, raise awareness about the number of pets lost every day
in our community and the importance of microchipping. It can
save your pet's life.
For additional information or for participating veterinarians,
please visit SFVMA's website at www.sfvma.com.
WHO: South Florida Veterinary Medical Associationand
Miami-Dade Animal Services.
WHAT: Low cost microchipping.
WHEN: Wednesday, May 7, 10:30 a.m. - 6 p.m., also May 5-9, at
participating veterinarians.
WHERE: Miami Dade Animal Services, 7401 NW 74 St.,
Medley.
The first ever South Florida "wheelchair dog'' class is being held at Coral Gables' Village of Merrick Park. Three special-needs children in South Florida are being educated to receive specially trained service dogs.
The classes are held daily until Sunday April 27th at Store 3210, 3rd floor, Village of Merrick Park. At the conclusion of the classes, the service dogs will be donated by New Horizons Service Dogs to the children. New Horizons Service Dogs is an Orlando based not-for-profit organization dedicated to serving persons with disabilities in Florida by providing them certified service dogs.
The three specially-trained service dogs and special-needs children will work as a team. The dogs help the physically disabled children accomplish tasks such as retrieving dropped or hard-to-reach items, turning light switches on and off, pulling wheelchairs, opening and closing doors, and many other tasks.
Each service dog costs about $20,000 from birth to placement and is given to the recipient at no charge. While New Horizons normally conducts the "wheelchair dog'' classes in Orlando, the organization decided to teach this class in Miami because all the recipients are children from South Florida.
For 10 intensive days, the dog and the recipient train together. Team training is important to ensure a quality working relationship that will provide increased independence to the disabled partner. In addition to the classes, the child/dog team will go through the mall performing tasks that would be taken for granted by able-bodied people. Upon successful completion of training, the dog is certified and the team graduates.
New Horizon Service Dogs and their trainers prepare each dog to give a lifetime of unconditional love, mobility, independence and service to a person with disabilities. Additional information about New Horizons Service Dogs is available at http://www.newhorizonsservicedogs.org/.
Meridian, ID, April 15, 2008 - The American College of Veterinary Opthamologists ACVO®), Pet Health Systems (PHS) and Merial are launching the ACVO® National Service Dog Eye Exam event the week of May 12, 2008. This unprecedented event will provide free sight-saving eye exams and preventative health reports to 5,000-10,000 Service Dogs. Over 140 board certified veterinary ophthalmologists and 1,300 general veterinarians across the U.S. will work together to provide these services at no cost to Service Dog groups including: guide dogs, handicapped assistance dogs, detection dogs and search and rescue dogs. With this event, ACVO® and PHS hope to give back to these animals who selflessly serve the public for no compensation. They will accomplish this goal while donating nearly $1 million in services to the 5,000-10,000 Service Dogs anticipated to participate. Merial, makers of HEARTGARD® Plus (ivermectin/pyrantel) and FRONTLINE®, is the official event sponsor.
Click on the above link for more info.
FORT LAUDERDALE
– Join PetSet for the 7th annual Moonlight and Martinis event on April 18th from 6:30 PM – 9:30 PM. This year the exciting event will be held at the beautiful Fort Lauderdale Grande Hotel & Yacht Club located at 1881 SE 17th Street, Fort Lauderdale. Moonlight and Martinis is one of PetSet’s most popular fundraisers and it promises to shake you up while you enjoy sipping on some delicious martinis. Chaired by PetSet Board Members Brooke Gettler, Tara Kriss and Susan Penrod, the ladies hope that you will attend and bring your friends, as all money raised goes to support the homeless animals at the Humane Society of Broward County. In addition to an exotic menu of martinis available, guests will enjoy two complimentary cocktails, delectable hors d’oeuvres and be able to bid on fabulous items in the silent auction, all while enjoying live entertainment. In addition, models who have be styled by Fernando Castano of Zasa Salon Day Spa, will be wearing the latest fashions by Emilio Pucci and mingling amongst the party goers.
Ticket prices are $30 for PetSet members, $40 for guests, and $50 if you would like to join PetSet and attend. Moonlight and Martinis is proudly sponsored by Premier Beverage, Land Shark Lager, Xellent, The Gettler Family Foundation – Brooke & Ben Gettler, Fort Lauderdale Grande Hotel & Yacht Club, Zasa Salon, Emilio Pucci and Purina ONE. Make your reservation today at www.petset.org or call 954-266-6827.
PetSet is the new generation of young adults in South Florida who are dedicated to making a difference in the lives of animals by raising funds and awareness for the Humane Society of Broward County. PetSet currently has an established membership of over 1,200 with the majority of members comprised of individuals between the ages of 21 and 45 in Broward, Dade, and Palm Beach counties. The Humane Society of Broward County is a private, non-profit organization that is funded by donations.
And supporters need help. Here's a letter from Commissioner Joe Sanchez on the subject:
From Misty at Broward Ferret Rescue, who says: "We are over packed with ferrets and really need all the help we can get.''
The Broward Ferret Rescue is holding an
April Adoption Day on Saturday the 12th
Adoptions will take place between
10am and 3pm
Please call 954-9774583 to make an appointment
and for location directions.
Join Andrew Prendeville and Best Friends Animal Society for their
first race of the season Saturday, March 29, 2008 at the
Homestead-Miami Speedway.
PetStops are a new addition to the Racing Laps program this
year. For each PetStop, Andrew will take the car to a local
rescue or shelter in the city where he is racing that week. Kids
can sit inside the car (which has a cool new paint job showing
off the Best Friends logo) and get their pictures taken behind
the wheel. Andrew will sign autographs and talk to fans. The
PetStops will be manned by Best Friends employees, staff of the
host shelters and local volunteers.
Humane Society of Broward County will host a vaccination clinic on Sunday, March 30th, 7 a.m.-11 a.m. in the back parking lot of the shelter, 2070 Griffin Road, just west of I-95.
Vaccination package prices are: Dogs - $35 for rabies vaccination, Broward tag, 5-in-1 and bordetella. Add $15 if dog not sterilized.
Puppies: $25, for 5-in-1, bordetella and Droncit.
Cats: $25 for rabies, Broward tag and FVRCP. Add $15 if cat is not sterilized.
Kittens: $15 for FVRCP and Droncit.
Appointments are not necessary and will be done on a first come, first serve basis. Vaccinations are available individually.
HUMANE SOCIETY OF GREATER MIAMI TO OFFER FREE SPAY/NEUTER
SERVICES TO PETS BELONGING TO CITY OF MIAMI RESIDENTS
20 March 2008 (Miami, FL) - The Mobile Animal Clinic (MAC) will
be offering free spay/neuter services to pets of eligible low
income residents of the City of Miami starting April 8th.
The MAC will travel two days per week to Little Haiti, the
Upper East Side, Curtis Park, Shenandoah and Coconut Grove
neighborhoods.
In order to qualify for a free spay/neuter surgery, the pet
owner must show proof of federal assistance such as food stamps,
Medicaid, Supplemental Security Income, Aid for Families with
Dependent Children or Jackson Clinic card.
The schedule for the mobile unit is available at
http://www.miamigov.com/cms/ (in the news channel) and is also detailed
below.
The MAC is part of an alliance between Miami-Dade County
Animal Services and the Humane Society of Greater Miami.
The services are part of an effort spearheaded by the South
Florida Animal Welfare Association, a collaboration of animal
welfare organizations from Monroe County to the Treasure Coast,
that promotes the spaying and neutering of pets.
However, the Humane Society of Greater Miami maintains an
ongoing program to inform the public about the importance of this
issue. In fact, the Humane Society of Greater Miami seeks to
transform the public's perception about pet sterilization, which
is paramount to ending the serious pet overpopulation problem in
Miami-Dade County.
In April and May, the MAC unit's schedule will be:
April 8, Upper East Side Service Center / Legion Park
6599 Biscayne Blvd.
April 11, 15, Shenandoah Park, 1800 S.W. 21st Ave.
April 16, 25, Elizabeth Virrick Park, 3255 Plaza St., Coconut
Grove.
May 13, 20, Little Haiti Net Center, 6421 N.E. 2nd Ave.
May 21, 28, Curtis Park Sports Complex, 1901 N.W. 24th St.
For more information on the MAC schedule or other services,
please call the Humane Society of Greater Miami at (305) 696-0800
or visit http://www.humanesocietymiami.org/.
From Broward County HUmane--
Fort Lauderdale, FL - In an effort to help control the pet overpopulation problem in South Florida, seven local shelters will offer various spay/neuter programs during April 1st - April 8th.
The South Florida Animal Welfare Association, which is comprised of 10 shelters from Monroe County to the Treasure Coast are working together to encourage pet owners to have their pets spayed or neutered.
While puppies and kittens are cute, the fact is there are simply too many unwanted pets and not enough homes. In fiscal year 2007, the seven shelters who are participating in this effort received nearly 95,000 animals that were either surrendered by their owners or picked up as strays.
A staggering number that pet owners have the ability to help lower by simply spaying or neutering their pet, a relatively easy procedure that helps reduce the number of unwanted pets and helps protect them from health issues that may develop later in life.
Here are some simple facts:
An un-neutered male dog can detect an un-spayed female dog in
heat for up to 3 ½ miles away. As a result more than 80% of dogs
hit by cars are un-neutered males. Neutering pets makes them
less likely to roam.
Altering your pet greatly reduces or eliminates the desire for
them to spray or mark their territory.
A dog or cat that is neutered is less likely to fight with
other animals for a mate or territory.
You will greatly reduce the chance of testicular and ovarian
cancer if you have your pets altered at an early age.
Unsterilized animals often exhibit more behavior and
temperament problems than do those who have been spayed or
neutered.
Spaying and neutering can make pets less likely to bite.
Spaying and neutering helps dogs and cats live longer,
healthier lives.
Don't you want your pet to live as long as possible?
The seven participating shelters are: Humane Society of Vero
Beach, Peggy Adams Animal Rescue League, Broward County Animal
Care and Regulation, Humane Society of Broward County, Miami-Dade
Animal Services, Humane Society of Greater Miami/Adopt-A-Pet and
Key Largo Animal Shelter.
The next Whisker Mixer, a party for pet lovers and their four-legged friends, will be held from 1 to 4 p.m. Sunday, March 9, in the outdoor patio of Stick & Stein, 28 Krome Ave. in downtown Homestead.
The Whisker Mixer is a Key West-style, afternoon fundraising party held monthly to pay for the rescue and spay/neuter of homeless animals. Admission is $5 per person; well-behaved dogs are admitted for free.
Following the doggie strut, partygoers this month will vote for the Best Speaker or Singer, Best Trick, Mr./Ms. Congeniality and The Muttliest. Prizes will be awarded.
For the dogs' best friends, a 50/50 raffle will be held, along with drawings for door prizes donated by local merchants, including Schnebly Redland's Winery and Robert Is Here.
Cookout fare and beverages will be available for purchase. Food includes a hamburger or hot dog plate for $5 with choice of two: potato chips, potato salad, cole slaw or homemade baked beans. Beverages are available from the bar.
The Whisker Mixer is hosted by Homestead-based Friends of Gummi East, and sponsored by Stick & Stein of Homestead and Key West.
For more information, call Pam at (239) 398-8538.
Doberman Rescue League, Inc.
30 years of successfully helping Dobermans
We will have a fantastic Disc Jockey, finger foods, beer, wine, sodas,
Chinese Auction and much more.
Date: Sunday, March 9, 2008
Time: 4:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Location: Sailboat Pointe Condo Club House,
2325 NW 33 St. Ft. Lauderdale
Diane & Jim Sedberry, 954-563-7061
I'll be in the Herald booth tomorrow during the Broward Humane Walk for the Animals. Stop by, say hi, and pet Shadow, the oldie Golden with me in the blog photo. See ya.
The Humane Society of Greater Miami/Adopt-a Pet's high-glam fundraiser of the season is Friday night, Feb. 29, 7 pm, at Jungle Island. A $225 entry fee gets you "an evening of food, drinks, entertainment and fashion.'' Dogs attend free. Watch 'em strut the red carpet in sparkly collars and matching-their-humans outfits. And remember: it benefits homeless animals. Click here for more info.
It's Saturday, March 1, in Fort Lauderdale, sponsored by the Humane Society of Broward County: 1.25 miles, rain or shine, leaving from Esplanade Park in downtown Fort Lauderdale (front of the science museum). Registration at 8 am; walk starts at 10. There will be all kinds of special events and goodies. Cick here for more info. (And don't forget your sunblock and hat!)
This is circulating in Miami-Dade County:
On Jan. 22, Miami-Dade County Commissioners refused to vote on an anti-tethering ordinance that was proposed by Miami-Dade Animal Services. The ordinance would have established humane conditions for tethering and would have reduced the incidence of dog bites and mauling. Animal lovers are now circulating a petition throughout Miami-Dade asking commissioners to pass an anti-tethering ordinance.
Children have been injured or killed by going into a chained dog's area, or by a dog who has broken free from a chain. A dog loose in our neighborhoods could be one who was made aggressive by chaining. The bill, sponsored by Miami-Dade Animal Services, would have required owners to be outside with their dog whenever the dog is tethered. People who are outside know if their dog is about to break free and can stop that from happening. They can also prevent children from coming close to their chained dog.
On the day that Miami-Dade commissioners refused to vote, Fort Worth, TX passed a law requiring people to be outside with their chained dogs. On Feb. 20, Macon, GA banned outdoor tethering of unattended dogs: macon.com . Other communities have a similar law.
A 1994 study by the Center for Disease Control found that chained dogs are 2.8 times more likely to bite. The American Veterinary Medical Association said in 2003, "Never tether or chain your dog because this can contribute to aggressive behavior." When confronted with a threat, dogs instinctively run or bite. A chained dog, unable to run, may attack any unfamiliar person who comes into his territory.
When aggressive tethered dogs get loose, they can travel many miles, posing a threat to children in every community. They can go into school yards, playgrounds and fields where children play sports.
Continuous tethering is inhumane:
In 1996, The United States Department of Agriculture said, "Our experience in enforcing the Animal Welfare Act has led us to conclude that continuous confinement of dogs by a tether is inhumane."
Tethered dogs are easy targets for attacks by other animals. They are killed or injured by extremes in weather, poisoned by humans, and made sick from animal feces or bird droppings. In many cases, the necks of chained dogs become raw and covered with sores from the dogs' constant yanking and straining to escape confinement. Dogs have been found with collars embedded in their necks.
Dogs are social animals. Tethering inflicts cruelty on dogs by forcing them to live in solitary confinement, unable to interact normally. Lonely and isolated, chained dogs are know to bark excessively at all hours of the day and night. This barking violates the County's noise ordinance.
Many other places protect children and dogs by having tethering ordinances, including Fort Worth, St. Louis, Washington DC, Fort Lauderdale, Dania Beach, Hollywood, FL and the entire States of California, Texas, Virginia, West Virginia and Connecticut.
For more information, click here.
It's tomorrow, Saturday, registration 8:30 am, Bayfront Park in downtown Miami. The event benefits the Humane Society of Greater Miami/Adopt a Pet. Click here for more info. Have fun!
Check out the ParkPaws newsletter for various events, including a bulldog olypmics Saturday at TY Park in Hollywood. That's bound to be a real hoot.
People are always asking about how to contact reputable rescue groups. I now have lists of dozens of groups in both Miami-Dade and Broward counties that each county's animal services division has approved. Some are outside South Florida. Click below: Download flowchart_2008.rtf, then also go into the blog archives for a list I printed on Feb. 6. Click on February 2008 and scroll down to the 6th.
WHISKER MIXER, second edition -- A Fundraiser Hosted By Friends of Gummi East
1-4 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 10, in the outdoor courtyard of Stick & Stein, 28 Krome Ave. in downtown Homestead. Admission is a $5 donation per person. Another $5 buys a cookout lunch. The first glass of wine is free. Well-behaved dogs are welcome. Proceds to benefit animal rescue and spay/neuter efforts in Miami-Dade County.
Events include a 50/50 raffle, door prizes and a Doggie Strut. Partygoers will vote for the Dog that Does the Best Trick, Best Speaker or Singer, Mr./Ms. Congeniality and The Muttliest. Prizes will be awarded!
Miami Beach Parks and Recreation Department has informed Responsible Dog Owners of Miami Beach that the temporary dog park on Washington Avenue and 2nd Street, which has been closed due to re-seeding, will re-open tomorrow: Thursday.
Sunday, February 3 afternoon, we’ll send out an e-mail with pictures of the ARF DECO Dogtown event, and will post them on our web-site.
SATURDAY, JAN. 26, "SAVE THE DOGS RALLY" TO HIGHLIGHT ABUSE OF GREYHOUNDS; Opponents urge NO vote on Slots Proposal (Miami, FL) The Miami-Dade Animal Rescue League, area animal lovers and their pets - including many greyhounds - will meet Saturday afternoon outside Flagler Dog Track to protest against Question 3, the Slots Proposal. The proposal on the January 29th ballot would permit slot machines at the dog racing track in Miami-Dade County. According to the Miami-Dade Animal Rescue League and other opponents in attendance on Saturday, slot machines would prop-up the dying dog racing industry which profits from the mistreatment of greyhound dogs. Opposition spokesmen will be available; fresh water will be free for all people and dogs. Meet 1:30pm outside Flagler Dog Track, southeast corner Douglas Road/37th Ave./ NW 7th St.
Sunday Jan. 27, T.Y. Park, 3300 N. Park Rd., Hollywood, from 10 am-2 pm., a fundraiser for Boxer Friends, Inc.
Contests: Best Dressed Dog, Owner/Dog Look Alike, and Silly Pet Trick. $1 games: Dress Up Race, Bobbing for Hotdogs, Ball Retrieve and Most Tail Wags.
Canine Good Citizen testing - $30.00, offered by AKC- registered evaluator Marni of HumaneK9 ( Dog Massage by Hope will be there. Also a raffle, an auction, Frisbee demos throughout the day
by The Tropicanine Disc Club of South Florida, and a chance to win a $215 Jamis Ranger XR Bicycle: tickets are two for $5.
Goody bag with bonus raffle ticket and event t-shirt, for a $10.00 donation.
All dogs must be current on shots and have proof of current rabies vaccination. Dogs that are not sociable and well behaved may be asked to leave.
Dog Bowl II is open to all members of the family, however all dogs must be accompanied by an adult. Regular weekend park admission fee in effect.
This isn't for a couple weeks, but put it on your calendar. It's bound to be much fun.
Sunday Jan. 27, T.Y. Park, 3300 N. Park Rd., Hollywood, from 10 am-2 pm., a fundraiser for Boxer Friends, Inc.
Contests: Best Dressed Dog, Owner/Dog Look Alike, and Silly Pet Trick. $1 games: Dress Up Race, Bobbing for Hotdogs, Ball Retrieve and Most Tail Wags.
Canine Good Citizen testing - $30.00, offered by AKC- registered evaluator Marni of HumaneK9 ( Dog Massage by Hope will be there. Also a raffle, an auction, Frisbee demos throughout the day
by The Tropicanine Disc Club of South Florida, and a chance to win a $215 Jamis Ranger XR Bicycle: tickets are two for $5.
Goody bag with bonus raffle ticket and event t-shirt, for a $10.00 donation.
All dogs must be current on shots and have proof of current rabies vaccination. Dogs that are not sociable and well behaved may be asked to leave.
Dog Bowl II is open to all members of the family, however all dogs must be accompanied by an adult. Regular weekend park admission fee in effect.
An important rabies vaccine research study is underway at the University of Wisconsin School of Veterinary Medicine/Madison. Dr. Ronald Schultz, a leading authority on veterinary vaccines and Chair of the Department of Pathobiological Sciences, has begun concurrent 5 and 7 year challenge studies to determine the long-term duration of immunity of the canine rabies vaccine, with the goal of extending the state-mandated interval for boosters. These will be the first long-term challenge studies on the canine rabies vaccine to be published in the United States. This research is being financed by The Rabies Challenge Fund, a charitable trust founded by pet vaccine disclosure advocate Kris L. Christine of Maine.
The Rabies Challenge Fund recently met its goal of $177,000 to fund the studies’ first year budget with contributions from dog owners, canine groups, trainers, veterinarians, and small businesses. Annual budget goals of $150,000 for the studies must be met in the future.
Scientific data published in 1992 by Michel Aubert and his research team demonstrated that dogs were immune to a rabies challenge 5 years after vaccination, while Dr. Schultz’s serological studies documented antibody titer counts at levels known to confer immunity to rabies 7 years post-vaccination. This data strongly suggests that state laws requiring annual or triennial rabies boosters for dogs are redundant. Because the rabies vaccine is the most potent of the veterinary vaccines and associated with significant adverse reactions, it should not be given more often than is necessary to maintain immunity. Adverse reactions such autoimmune diseases affecting the thyroid, joints, blood, eyes, skin, kidney, liver, bowel and central nervous system; anaphylactic shock; aggression; seizures; epilepsy; and fibrosarcomas at injection sites are linked to rabies vaccinations.
Click here for information about how you can help.
It’s Raining Men! Hallelujah! It’s Raining Men! Every Specimen! Tall, blonde, dark and lean, rough and tough and strong and mean! ....and Caring About the Strays is there to provide the men!!! We will be auctioning some of our calendar models (and some non-models) for a charity date! The winning ladies will get a date and a dinner for two from restaurants such as Chispa Restaurant & Bar, Basilico Ristorante, Pasha’s, Holleman’s Steak and Seafood, and wine tastings from The Best Cellar among many other places! Remember, this date is for charity. All proceeds go to Caring About the Strays so its volunteers can continue rescuing homeless animals, providing proper health care, spaying and neutering, and searching for good, loving homes. We also have an 8-Minute Dating Singles Mingle. There will singles of all ages, both men and women, ready to meet and greet. For the married or involved guest, this is the last chance to purchase a calendar and get it autographed. Our models will be there to do so! Help us make our last calendar event a huge success! Saturday, January 19th • 6:00pm to 9:00pm Cielo Garden & Supperclub, 3390 Mary Street, Streets of Mayfair, Coconut Grove 33133 Caring About the Strays has put together a beautiful, trendy calendar as a much needed fundraising piece. Twelve handsome men volunteered to pose with some of our rescues. Caring About the Strays is a non-profit rescue group based in Miami Springs. The group has spayed and neutered over 3,000 cats and dogs in the nine years since it was founded. Adoptions average 150-200 cats, dogs, kittens and puppies each year. Caring About The Strays | P.O. Box 661160 | Miami Springs, Florida 33266 | 305.889.0840 | caringaboutthestrays.com _________________________________________________________________
Whisker Mixer to benefit animal rescue
The first Whisker Mixer, a fundraising party for pets and their people, will be held from 1 to 4 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 13, in the outdoor patio of Stick & Stein, 28 Krome Ave. in downtown Homestead.
Volunteers Needed To Assist with Shelter’s Largest
Fundraising Event of the Year
Fort Lauderdale, FL –The Humane Society of Broward County will be hosting the annual Walk for the Animals on Saturday, March 1, at Esplanade Park, downtown Fort Lauderdale. Fifty volunteers are needed to assist in various capacities, and early risers, those with computer experience and people who enjoy walking are encouraged to participate. Students fifteen years of age and older can earn school required community service hours when accompanied by an adult. Contact Colette at 954-266-6814 or csaucier@hsbroward.com by February 10th for more details.
Such a great idea. Here's the email I got Karyn Moltzen, founder of AniMeals, a non-profit animal food bank in Missoula.
"Ten million animals are abandoned to shelters and the streets in this country every year. Many of the shelters and the rescue groups that house and feed these animals are struggling to keep them fed. Since 2003 AniMeals has been providing food and supplies for these hungry and homeless animals. We also feed the pets of the homebound and disabled, feral cat colonies and thousands of animals living on the streets. In the last two years we have sent out over 46 tons of food Our territory covers all of Western Montana ...an area of approximately 29,600 square miles. Our deliveries are made by the "AniMeals Express" a volunteer network of drivers. Please see our website at http://www.animeals.net/
Give the Gift of Giving Back While Toasting a Fine Wine to Man's Best Friend
New York, NY - Hero by day and beloved pet by night, Wheeler is a working K-9 police dog named after a New York State Police officer lost in the line of duty. As an officer for the NYSP, the German Shepherd risks his life protecting others. To honor Wheeler's bravery and accomplishments, Dog Lovers Wine Club ( www.DogLoversWineClub.com ) will honor Wheeler on their "Dog of The Month" December Label. Dog Lovers Wine Club supports animal shelters and rescue organizations nationwide.
"Wheeler, 2004 Santa Barbara County Syrah"
Dogs like Wheeler are why Dog Lovers Wine Club was created and each month, they select a "top-dog" from stories and photos submitted by wine and dog enthusiasts across the United States. Each bottle features an inspirational real-life story and a beautiful custom label illustrating a dog. But the story does not end when the wine is poured. More than 40 non-profit animal shelters and rescue organizations benefit from each wine club membership and every sale. So toast the holiday season and support animals in need with Dog Lovers Wine Club.
CSI: CRIME SCENE INVESTIGATION, "LYING DOWN WITH DOGS", THURSDAY, DEC 13, 9-10 PM (EST), on CBS.
Focusing on the brutal and illegal world of dog fighting, the episode was created in close consultation with two ASPCA experts considered leaders in their field-Dr. Randall Lockwood, Senior Vice President, ASPCA Anti-Cruelty Initiatives, and Dr. Melinda Merck, ASPCA Forensic Veterinarian and the country's only ‘‘Animal CSI." The pair has assisted in the prosecution of several high-profile dog fighting and animal cruelty cases, including the recent Michael Vick case.
For more information on dog fighting, please visit ASPCA.org.
Christmas Food Drive for the Animals
WHEN: Saturday, Dec. 15, 11 a.m.-2 p.m.
WHERE: Poinciana Dog Park, 1501 S. 21st Ave., Hollywood.
WHAT: Free photo with Santa with any donation. Dog and cat
food (dry or canned), toys, treats, clean blankets, sheets,
leashes and other pet-related items may be dropped off at
selected Hollywood Community Centers, City Hall and the Police
Department through December.
Your donation helps improve the quality of life for the less
fortunate animals. For more information: 954-921-3061.
Saturday, Siberan Husky Rescue is having an Xmas adoption event. They need help (as well as adopters). It's at the Tamarac Petco, 5837 N. University Dr., 11am -- 4pm.
VOLUNTEERS NEEDED: Santa, photographer, "elves'' to assist with the dogs, someone to run the doption table. TWO SHIFTS: 11-1:30; 1:30-4
More info: http://www.sibrescue.com/
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From the Human Society of Greater Miami/Adopt-a-Pet (I was there with my boyfriend Jake and stepdog Harley, the wooly mammoth - aka wolf hybrid, who caused quite a sensation. I'll post photos soon).
December 2, 2007, Surfside, FL - It was a brunch like none
other - dogs sitting at tables, on laps, in strollers and even
dancing on the stage! The Surf Club was filled with dogs of all
sizes, from the 2 lb. Chihuahua to the 200 lb. Great Dane, and
all their human companions dressed in their Sunday best to honor
the Humane Society of Greater Miami Adopt-A-Pet.
Event founder Roye Levin, Honorary Chairperson Michelle
Headley-Manners and Chairpeople Allison Nash-Zelkowitz and Sally
A. Nash were amongst great supporters of the Humane Society of
Greater Miami such as Tova Leidesdorf, Gale Posner, Ralph
Lutrin, Helene Kovens, Ted and Jeanette Fine, Commissioner Sally
Heyman, Haute Couturier Rene Ruiz, NBC6's Ryan Phillips, Willard
Shephard and Jennifer Gray, Bella Goldstein, Mark and Trudy Gold,
Goeff and Lisa McGuire, Sam Blum, Edward and Ethel Dublin and
Irma Lyons. The brunch also served as the first event hosted by
newly elected chairman of the board Alan Rubin who took office in
November.
Guests enjoyed an elaborate buffet - from an omelet station to
an extensive dessert station and all the trimmings in between.
Cocktails, courtesy of Bacardi USA, Inc. flowed while people bid
on exciting and unique silent auction items. Tails wagged, dogs danced - it was a howlin' good time for
all!
The Humane Society of Greater Miami Adopt-A-Pet is dedicated
to placing every dog and cat in our care into a loving home, and
to promote responsible pet ownership and spay/neuter programs.
It's been a long, tough battle for this cause - allowing cats and dogs in condos - and Maida Genser, Fairy Godmother of the effort, is a real hero. An important meeting is coming up on the issue. Here are the details:
1) The Florida Condo Ombudsman is now ready to hear us. Please 12/8/2007, 10 AM - 1 PM, Annual Condominium Association Directions: Take the Florida Turnpike to the Hollywood Please write up your concerns -- make them concise and to the Other ways to contact her: Office of the Condominium Ombudsman 1940 North Monroe Street Tallahassee, FL 32399 Phone: 850.922.7671 FAX: 850.488.3395 OR: 1400 W. Commercial Boulevard Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33309 Phone: 954.202.3234 FAX: 954.202.3237 2) Linda Schmidt is fighting to keep her cat. She is in a desperate situation. She has an appellate attorney who will file an appeal for her, but she immediately needs over $2000 to get a transcript of the trial where her former attorney challenged whether the condos pet laws were properly entered. She is waiting to get disability and waiting for insurance to pay for her injuries. If anyone can please help with any kind of donation to help her, or with a loan, please contact us at info@petsincondos.org. If you make a donation for Linda, please let us know to separate that money for that purpose. Go to http://www.petsincondos.org/HelpUsHelp.htm#Donate for information on how to donate.
help make sure our voices are heard.
Members' Roundup, Broward Community College, South Campus, 7200
Pines Blvd, Building 68, Pembroke Pines, FL. This is your chance
to be heard! Come speak up for allowing pets in condos. Danille
R. Carroll, ESQ, the Florida Condo Ombudsman, has called this
meeting. She will be there, as well as the head of DBPR land
sales, and local state legislators.
Blvd/Pines Blvd exit. Go one mile west on Pines Blvd to the
campus entrance and proceed south to the perimeter road (just
beyond the parking lot that fronts Pines Blvd) then left to the
last building on the right, Building 68 - the Performing and
Cultural Arts Theatre. The building is on the NE corner of the
campus. Parking is just beyond (east of) building 68. The
entrance to the building is on the west side.
point. Then, send them to Danille Carroll, the Ombuds”man”
whether or not you are able to get to this public meeting. Ask
her to put your comments into the record. Use these same notes
if you get up and speak at the meeting. We want her to hear us
loud and clear; You may e-mail the Ombudsman at:
ombudsman@dbpr.state.fl.us.
Please sign the petition to allow pets, link in upper left at http://petsincondos.org/
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 t
