BAYOU RESCUE

Is Your Dog Under the Weather? What Kinds of Things Should You Look For?

Dr. Jon of PetPlace.com has proposed this question to readers: What illnesses are the most common among dogs? Do you know?  Sometimes we need a nudge to see what is right in front of us and maybe this will be that reminder.

Here is the list - Top 10 Canine Conditions of 2008 - based on pet insurance claims filed last year.

1. Ear Infections - the most common symptoms are red, itchy or smelly ears
2. Skin Allergies - the most common symptoms are red skin, hair loss, itching
3. Pyoderma/Hot Spots - the most common symptom is a hairless, moist, painful area on the skin, often on the neck or rear end
4. Gastritis/Vomiting - the most common sign is vomiting and/or lack of appetite
5. Enteritis/Diarrhea - the most common symptom is loose or frequent stools 
6. Urinary Tract Infections - the most common symptoms are frequent urination, inappropriate urination, or bloody urine
7. Benign Skin Tumors - the most common symptom is an abnormal lump or growth on or under the skin
8. Osteoarthritis - the most common symptoms are lameness, trouble getting up or walking
9. Eye Inflammation - the most common symptoms are a red, irritated or painful eye
10. Hypothyroidism - the most common symptoms are hair loss and weight gain

Most of the conditions on this Top 10 List will be accompanied by a noticeable change in the behavior or appearance of your dog. Watch for abnormalities such as lumps, sores, unusual odors or drastic changes in behavior. They are a good sign that it's time to visit the veterinarian. 

And, remember, if you think something is not quite right with your friend, follow up on it.  My "grand-dog" had been under the weather for a couple of weeks and in spite of tests saying things were fine his mom decided to take him back for another check-up.  It turned out to be Addison's Disease that just hadn't shown up on the blood work a couple of days before the return visit.  She just knew something was not right and followed up.  He will be fine, but it was nip and tuck for a while.

Newly Formed "Congressional Animal Protection Caucus"

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Reps. Jim Moran (D-VA) and Elton Gallegly (R-CA) announced today that they will co-chair the newly formed "Congressional Animal Protection Caucus (CAPC)," a bipartisan organization committed to raising awareness of animal welfare issues in Congress. 

CAPC replaces the Friends of Animals Caucus that existed in previous Congresses.

Through non-partisan forums and briefings, CAPC will seek to highlight important issues affecting animals and upcoming animal welfare legislation.  CAPC will also track the progress of relevant legislation, provide members of Congress with dependable information, and attempt to build broad coalitions in support of common-sense, humane animal welfare laws.

Read more at the Animal Law Coalition.

Primates Are Not Pets

You may have heard about the tragic event recently where a "pet" chimp attacked a friend of his owner and seriously harmed her.  Travis, the chimpanzee, was also a victim.  He was a wild animal being treated as though he were a human child.  The most predictable thing about Travis was his unpredictability.  Travis was a creature of the jungle and wired to be a chimp, not a human being.

Once again, the Captive Primate Safety Act (H.R. 80) has been introduced in Congress.  This federal legislation bans interstate trade in nonhuman primates for the exotic pet industry.  Ask your Representative on Capitol Hill to cosponsor H.R. 80.  Ask your Senators to introduce a companion bill.  If you would like to read more about this subject, identify your legislators and how to address them in a letter, and view a sample letter follow this link to Kinship Circle's Blog.

Haley Goes Home

Two months ago, Haley and her family lost their home to a fire.  They were happily reunited on February 20.   Carrie Griffin, owner of Max's Dog Wash in Pittsboro, and a board member of Best Buddies Companion Rescue and Adoption, fostered Haley with her until Haley could return home.  Haley found it difficult to say good-by to her foster mom who gave her lots of tender loving care. 

Helping animals who face crisis situations can be an overwhelming task.  In Haley's case, there were many people who assisted in her care.  It takes many volunteers, donors, and partners to make care for displaced pets and reunions like this one possible. A special thank you to all who have provided financial donations, and to all those directly involved in this family's happy story.

Special THANKS to:
- Lori Rinker, volunteer for the Triangle Red Cross who coordinated foster care and adoption (requested by family) for Fritz, Willie, and Spike
- Dr. Kellis Ferris of the NCSU vet school who provided vet care for the dogs
- All Haley's friends at Max's Dog Wash  (www.maxsdogwash.com)
- To Independent Animal Rescue who shared some of their pet supplies in a hurry  (www.animalrescue.net)
- Animal Kind who provided low cost spay vouchers for Haley and her canine mom Hannah   (www.animalkind.org/home.html)
- Bayou Rescue case manager Kelly Ronnow
- Transporters Cathy Harrison, Susanne Schmal, and Molly Cook.  Molly and Susanne took the reunion photos, too, which make us all smile!

There's no place like home, is there, Haley?

Local Girl Scouts Help Out Orange County Animal Shelter

Sometimes we get overwhelmed by the scope of what needs to be done to help our our animal friends.  Perhaps you ask yourself, "But what can I really do to help with the problem.

Well, some of our wonderful young people in Orange County must have asked themselves the same thing.  According to the  News & Observer here's the story...

Five Girl Scouts in Troop 317 in Chapel Hill recently completed a project to benefit the Orange County Animal Shelter.

Melissa Chua, Anne Kelley, Elizabeth Kelley, Emma McNairy and Julianna Parham delivered 100 "Welcome Waggin'" bags to the shelter in time for a special pet adoption day.

The Scouts sought donations for the shelter and created bags that included pet-care instructions (half of the bags were geared for dogs, the others for cats), homemade animal treats, coupons for pet food and supplies, contact information of local animal medical care providers, a bandanna and other pet care supplies.

All of us can make a difference, too.  Did you know that the shelters would love to get donations of towels, washcloths, and blankets?  They, also, would love a bag of food or some toys.  So, the next time you clean out your closets, don't add another "rag" under the already equipped sink or throw out that squeaky toy that Fido won't play with any more - take it out to your local shelter to help with bath time or with keeping an animal warm on cold nights!

Poor Economy May Cause Many Family Pets to Lose Homes

The current U.S. financial crisis has the potential to grow into a serious animal welfare issue, warns Executive Vice President of ASPCA Programs, Dr. Stephen Zawistowski. As households across the country are caught in the economic downturn, an estimated 500,000 to one million cats and dogs are at risk of becoming homeless. 

No Paws Left Behind is an excellent organization committed to helping pets STAY with their families.  Bayou Rescue has referred a family to this organization and they were able to make a difference that allowed the family to keep their two beloved cats!

To avoid or ease the heartbreak of losing an animal companion due to economic hardship, the  ASPCA urges pet owners who are faced with foreclosure to think of alternatives ahead of time:

• See if friends, family or neighbors can provide temporary foster care for their pet until they get back on their feet.
• If they are moving into a rental property, get written permission in advance that pets are allowed.
• Contact their local animal shelter, humane society or rescue group before they move. If a shelter agrees to take the pet, they should provide medical records, behavior information and anything else that might help the pet find a new home.

Bayou Rescue Wants to Know...

What is the most endearing thing your pet has ever done?  Send us your wonderful stories, please.

Looking for Ways to Help Animals?

Each of us can make a difference in the lives of animals by giving consideration to some common sense ideas.  For instance, adopt from an animal shelter and spay and neuter your pets. Don't buy an animal from a pet shop or a puppy mill.  Support your local animal shelter through volunteering your time or through donations of materials that can be used with the animals under their care.

Visit zoos where conservation and education is the central mission and the animals are living in natural habitats. Find alternatives to rodeos, or circus performances.  Don't take a ride in a horse drawn carriage while visiting a city.  Buy cruelty-free products and support companies which do no animal testing.

For a more extensive list connect with Just Give.org and see 80 ways you can help animals.

New Update on Wayne County's Puppy Mill

The 283 dogs seized from a puppy mill are now being rehabilitated in different rescues, and will be sent around the country to adoptive homes.  None of the dogs ended up in the Orange County/Alamance County area, but they all went to "no-kill" shelters and are being rehabilitated so that each one will find a forever home. 

Almost every dog had some health issue which varied from moderate to severe. The majority of them experienced dental disease because they had never been taken care of by a veterinarian said Dr. Lisa Dixon, DVM who works in a clinic in Charlotte but went to Wayne to help in the recovery of the animals.  This is an issue which will require more in depth care than some of the others. 

Meanwhile, volunteer workers from many different organizations worked to clean the dogs up and this in turn helped improve the attitudes of the dogs.  "You wouldn't imagine their change in attitude once we get them cleaned up. They become more alive," Dr. Dixon said. 

On February 10, the county and Virginia Thornton, the owner-operator of Thornton Kennels, settled out of court in a surprising move prior to the civil injunction hearing scheduled for Tuesday afternoon.  The settlement came as a result of Ms. Thornton and her attorney, Billy Strickland of Goldsboro, negotiating with County Attorney Borden Parker.  She gave up all rights to the dogs, transferring them to Wayne County, who will in turn give ownership rights to the dogs to the U.S. Humane Society. The HSUS will rehabilitate the dogs and distribute them to communities around the country, where they can be adopted. 

The HSUS, PetSmart Charities and other groups footed most of the bill.  Volunteers stepped up to care for the animals.  The veterinarians and groomers donated their time and skills, and a spokeswoman for PetSmart Charities said their 501(c)3 charity donated between $50,000 and $60,000 in supplies.  As for the HSUS, "I haven't heard on a number yet," said Jordan Crump, a public relations official with the society, but Ms. Crump estimated that the costs incurred from the operation were in the tens of thousands.

Can any good come out of this tragedy?  Hopefully the answer is yes!  Rep. Efton Sager, R-Wayne, and Sen. Don Davis, D-Greene, are both introducing puppy mill legislation that would place tighter controls on large-scale breeding operations that operate for the purpose of selling dogs to individuals.

For more information, please follow the link to the Goldsboro News-Argus.

Horse Slaughter Bill Reintroduced - you can help!

With more than 100,000 American horses brutally slaughtered last year, there is an urgent need to pass federal legislation to shut down this trade.  Despite claims by pro-horse slaughter advocates, horse slaughter has not been banned in the US.  Thankfully, House Judiciary Committee Chairman John Conyers, Jr. (D-MI), Representative Dan Burton (R-IN) and many of their colleagues have taken up the reins and reintroduced H.R. 503, the Conyers-Burton "Prevention of Equine Cruelty Act of 2009".  The legislation recognizes horse slaughter for what it truly is - animal cruelty- and will end the practice for good by prohibiting the slaughter of horses in the US and preventing their export for the same purpose.  Please take a moment to contact your U.S. Representative and ask for his/her support of this sound legislation. By following the link to Kinship Circle you will find a sample letter and contact information to help.

Free Animal Health Resources Web Sites from Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine

Does Max or Zuzu need to see the vet today?  Anytime your pet seems sick, the answer is "Of course!" 

But, sometimes, we may just want information about a certain topic before we make that appointment with our vet. Here are some free health resources web sites from  Cornell University's College of Veterinary Medicine.

Look here for Free Animal Health Resources Web Sites provided by the Veterinary Library.

As always, please remember that your veterinarian is the very best person to consult with questions regarding your animal's health, especially if your animal is ill.  If your concern is urgent, please be sure to contact him or her immediately.

Helping Out with the Victoria Australia Fires

You've been hearing lots about the wildfires in Australia.  It is estimated that well over 1 million wild and domestic animals have perished and those rescued will need months of care and  rehabilitation.  There are still fires burning.  MuttShack Volunteers has lists of ways to contribute to help out.

Davie's Law Introduced in North Carolina General Assembly

Learn about the Animal Law Coalition and how it works to stop animal cruelty and suffering through legislation, administrative agency action, and litigation.    You can make a difference by becoming informed.

Update Jan. 28, 2009:  H.B. 6, known as Davie's Law, has been filed in the North Carolina House.

Davie's Law is named for Davie, a puppy pictured here, who survived a North Carolina gas chamber. He was found in the trash after he was gassed at a shelter.  

Animal Law Coalition has been working towards the introduction of this bill with North Carolina Coalition for Humane Euthanasia (NCCHE) and American Humane Association (AHA). 

Tips For Keeping Your Pet Safe In Your Yard

PetPlace.com has some safety tips for your pet when he is in your yard.  There are several possible hazards that might be found in your yard that can cause injury or create problems for your dog.

Some of the possible hazards include:

- Sharp nails or wires on fencing

- Loose fence boards or areas where pets can sneak out, around or under

- Trash tossed or blown into the yard that may be chewed on or ingested

- Improperly stored toxins such as rodenticide, slug bait, fertilizer or antifreeze

This time of year, when vegetation is at a low point, is a great time to look around the yard and see if there are any areas that may need your attention.  Your pet will greatly appreciate it.
 

Don't Forget: Pet Adoption at Durham APS Saturday, February 14

Wonderful new friends await you today at the Durham APS between 10 and 3.  Check out the blurb below for more information.

ASPCA Peanut Butter Pet Treats Recall Reminder

The peanut butter recall isn’t over, pet parents! In fact, the FDA has added several  new pet food items to its expanding list of affected pro ducts. Last month, the FDA confir med an outbreak of Salmonella bacteria in peanut butter products and traced it to a GA-based plant owned by the Peanut Corp. of America. The company does not sell directly to consumers, but distributes peanut butter and peanut paste to institutions and manufacturers, including several pet food makers.

The ASPCA reminds pet parents to keep checking the FDA’s website for updates. Pet parents should also wash their hands after handling any potentially contaminated food and consult with a veterinarian if their dog shows any symptoms of Salmonella infection, including vomiting, diarrhea, fever, lethargy and drooling or panting. Cats may develop a high fever with vague, non-specific clinical signs. If you suspect that your pet may have ingested a recalled product, please contact your local veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435.

Update: Two Bayou Rescue Volunteers Deploy to Wayne County

Two Bayou Rescue volunteers, Kelly Ronnow and Dee Stribling, deployed Friday after being invited by PetSmart Charities and EARS (Emergency Animal Rescue Service) to assist in the Wayne County puppy mill rescue operation.  On Friday, hundreds of dogs were seized by Wayne County animal control authorities from Thornton Kennels in Mount Olive.  The county has filed a civil injunction against the kennel's owner, Virginia Thornton, accusing her of "willfully and intentionally depriving the animals of a proper living environment." WRAL.com posted the full story Friday.

Several of the "puppy mill" dogs will be fostered locally in our area.  On February 12, Bayou Rescue will be providing transport for 15 of the dogs to the Happy Hills Animal Foundation in Stanley, NC (Alamance County).  Happy Hills is a non-profit, no-kill animal rescue organization.

Pet Adoption at Durham County Animal Shelter on Valentine's Day

Fall in love at the
Durham County Animal Shelter
Saturday February 14th 10 am to 3 pm

Visit the animals and adopt the new love of your life! Enter a raffle, vote for the most adorable, adoptable animal and save a life by adopting!

There are so many beautiful animals available!

Whether you are looking to adopt or just want to visit, we want to welcome you to your local animal shelter!

 2117 East Club Blvd, Durham NC 27704
919-560-0640
www.apsofdurham.org

PET FRIENDLY VALENTINES

 Love means never having to say "I'm sorry you ate that, Max!"

For information on how to keep your favorite furry valentine safe, check out these tips from the ASCPA.

Humane Society's Tips About How You Can Help Neighborhood Critters In Need

Animal Angel: How You Can Help Neighborhood Critters In Need
Whether an injured dog along the highway or a stray cat in your neighborhood, free-roaming animals are in danger and need your help. Find out practical information in this article.