Michael Vick and the Ed Block Courage award

You probably all know that the Philadelphia Eagles recently voted Michael Vick as their preferred recipient of the Ed Block Courage Award. What a travesty! The Ed Block Foundation is dedicated to promoting awareness and assisting in the prevention of child abuse.  That objective is combined with the Foundation's commitment to celebrating players of inspiration in the NFL.  Each year, every NFL team votes for one of its players to receive the Ed Block Courage Award.  It is considered to be one of the most prestigious awards in the NFL, and heralds the winner as an example of inspiration, spirit, and bravery.

WHAT where the Eagles thinking, nominating Michael VICK, the man who epitomizes the exact opposite of what the award should represent?!

Child abuse and animal abuse are perpetrated by the same time types of people (often the same people, as we all know that domestic violence and animal abuse go hand in hand, just as much as animal abuse often presages violence against humans): cowardly and craven bullies taking advantage of an innocent, dependent being. There is no-one LESS courageous than someone who abuses either children or animals.

Vick is NOT a courageous man – he is a cowardly creature who tortured and abused animals for pleasure and the approval of his equally degenerate peers. There's nothing courageous about bowing to peer pressure; there’s nothing courageous about abusing animals. And where's the courage when Vick, offered the opportunity to look the surviving dogs in the eyes, refused to step up even for that?? This is no hero, there is no courage. That man is the ultimate coward, through and through.

Please sign a petition against Vick’s nomination – it’s a travesty and makes a mockery of all the truly brave NFL players who deserve to be nominated, not to mention the real heroes – people who put their safety and peace of mind on the line every day to prevent animal abuse and those who rescue the victims. Sign to stop this prestigious award from being tarnished by association with the likes of Michael Vick - http://bit.ly/7pLfb6.

Even temporary holding conditions should be humane

In an update on the recent shocking case involving the seizure of over 20,000 exotic animals in Arlington, Tx it has been clearly established that the inhumane conditions in which the animals were being held lead to the deaths of over 1,600 and health conditions ranging from parasite infestations to starvation.

Besides the fact that these animals were torn from their native environments and callously traded for their exotic appeal at risk to their wellbeing (and in some cases, the wellbeing of the environments into which they were being introduced), even the most basic fundamentals of animal transportation were not being observed.

Whether transporting a pet, livestock or exotic animal, it is critical to ensure adequate food, water and bedding when transporting or holding animals, and to have sufficiently trained personnel on hand to monitor the animals’ wellbeing at all times.

Let’s hope that this company is summarily put out of business – their holding facility is such a health hazard, health specialists are recommending its demolition – an organization like should not be allowed to continue their cruelty and exploitation. Say what you will about PETA, who sponsored the undercover investigation, their goal to end the commercial sale of exotic animals around the world can only be a good thing.

Dallas Area Pet Stores Take ‘Puppy Friendly’ Pledge

Local animal lovers have been working with Dallas area pet stores to sign The Humane Society of the United States' puppy friendly pet store pledge — committing not to sell puppies, but instead support local animal adoption programs and provide literature that helps customers learn about reputable breeders.

These businesses are proof that selling puppy mill pets is not the way to a successful pet-related business, and their participation in the program will hopefully boost shelter adoptions as well.

Please show your support for these more humane businesses by boycotting stores that sell live puppies and kittens and shopping with one of these instead:

The independent retailers in the Dallas area that have recently signed the puppy friendly pledge to not sell puppies are:

• Big Paw Designs (online only)
• Canine Commissary (Dallas)
• City Pet Supply (North Dallas)
• City Pet Supply Oak Lawn (Dallas)
• City Vet Center Uptown (Dallas)
• Doggy Tug (Dallas)
• Downtown Dog (Dallas)
• Green Pet (Dallas)
• Lucca Bella Doggie Spa & Boutique (Dallas)
• Lucky Dog Barkery (Dallas)
• Perky Poodle (Dallas)
• Pet Supplies "Plus" (Dallas)
• The Dog Lofts Oak Lawn (Dallas)
• The Dog Lofts Uptown (Dallas)
• The Petropolitan (Dallas)
• The Pooch Patio (Dallas)
• Urban Paws (Dallas)
• City Vet Center (Flower Mound)
• Glamour Paws (Fort Worth)
• Every Dog's Day Canine Resort and Day Spa (Frisco)
• Prestige Pet Products (Grand Prairie)
• Pete & Mac's Pet Resort (Irving)
• Foxy Paws Dog Boutique (Plano)
• Pet Supplies "Plus" (Plano)
• Pete & Mac's Pet Resort (Plano)
• Woof… Cool Stuff Fur Dogs (Plano)
• Three Dog Bakery (Southlake)

THANKS, animal advocates and HSUS for this program that will help consumers make better decisions!

More information and action for you (links below):

• See more information about the “Puppy Friendly” program here.
• You can help get pet stores to sign the “Puppy Friendly” pledge!
• Find out what else you can do to fight puppy mills here.

Exotic animals seized in Arlington

I am not a pet!

Photo: Nigel Treblin / AFP/Getty Images

The largest animal seizure of its kind in the country took place in this week in Arlington, TX when as many as 20,000 critters were targeted for seizure from an exotic pet distributor Tuesday morning. Many of them were in appalling condition, starving or suffering from being kept in inappropriate conditions for their species; a large number were already dead when authorities made the raid.

The fact that the distributor ran a multi million dollar business trading in exotic animals for over a decade hints at the demand for such unusual “pets” in this country, and poses some unique challenges for animal welfare groups (and communities at large) when people cannot adequately care for their exotic charge. Some are simply released – into non-native habitats where they die because of conditions they are not meant to live in; or where they thrive and decimate native fauna and flora – sometimes to a dangerous degree (think of some of the African and Burmese pythons now cross-breeding with local snakes in the swamps of Florida). Some attack their owners or other people, while some simply die from neglect and ignorance of their unique environmental, dietary and social requirements. And some, usually involuntarily, are surrendered to animal welfare agencies who themselves are ill-equipped to assist in the care and re-homing of highly specialized animal species.

It’s bad enough that we have an overpopulation of everyday companion animals like dogs, cats and rabbits – but the additional burden placed on rescue and welfare groups when exotics are added to the mix pushes the system well beyond its already-strained limits.

Wild animals are not pets, people! It is irresponsible and inhumane to be capturing, transporting and trading exotic, non-native wildlife to be kept as pets or status symbols.

What you can do about this issue:

• Never buy or promote the ownership of exotic or wild animals as pets.
• Please support the awesome groups who have been pulled into this latest seizure: SPCA of Texas, Arlington Animal Services, and Humane Society of North Texas
• Get educated about the issue of exotic wildlife as pets by checking out the HSUS page - http://www.humanesociety.org/issues/exotic_pets/ 
• And let your elected officials know you support legislation such as the Large Constrictor Snake Trade Ban (recently approved by a Senate panel, now under consideration by the Senate). How to you do that? Check out the HSUS page http://www.humanesociety.org/action/now/ or the ASPCA page http://www.aspca.org/fight-animal-cruelty/lobby-for-animals/.

Our motto “No More Disposable Pets” means exactly that – no more disposable pets of ANY kind!!

Fun holiday gifts for pet lovers – for a good cause!

Looking for Holiday gifts for pet lovers?

Contemporary Cats has an awesome selection of accessories, bags and wallets, notecards and more – and they donate a portion of all sales to Companions For Life to help our humane education efforts!

Extra! Extra!

If you have other organizations you might want to support, check out Rebecca Poling’s latest article on great gifts for pet lovers that also benefit local shelters and rescue groups – from divine doggie treats at Sublime Bakery to Mousepads, Snowglobes and pet beds, your holiday shopping can mean more than just awesome gifts! Groups that benefit include Animal Rescue of Texas, Cat Matchers, Dog and Kitty City, SPCA of Texas, Homeward Bound Rescue and more. These are gifts that keep on giving!

Do you know someone who wants a new pet for Christmas?

Pets are like perfume, there’s a lot of chemistry involved in getting a perfect match, and many well-meaning gifts of pooches or kitties end up in shelters as a result of a poor match or because the time isn’t quite right. Instead of giving a pet, why not give a pet gift certificate instead? Many shelters offer gift certificates that can be used to cover adoption fees so that people can take their time and find exactly the right pet to love forever.

And… if you want something fun to wrap for under the tree, why not get a pet gift certificate from your local shelter or humane society, and pop it in a nifty little pet carrier like this one (from Contemporary Cats) – now they have something to carry their new friend home in!

Virtual Virtues!

Finally, if you’d like to directly help an animal, you can also make a donation on a person’s behalf – or sponsor an animal either in a shelter or at a zoo or sanctuary. This is a great way to help teach kids about conservation or animal welfare – many programs exist that provide an “adoption” certificate and information about the animal being sponsored, and sometimes also little plush toys that children can enjoy while learning about different animals.

Do you have any other suggestions for fun gifts that support a good cause or help teach humane values? Share them with us and inspire someone to make a difference - what better way to bring real cheer to the holiday season than with wonderful gifts that also help deserving causes – happy shopping!

How can shelters increase adoptions?

Dog training!  A recent article on the ZoomRoom website highlights new research confirming that even moderately trained dogs are more likely to be adopted from animal shelters. In the study, trained dogs were adopted about 1.5 times as frequently as dogs without basic training, corroborating the observations of the article’s author, that dogs in shelters “who exhibit friendly ‘pet-like’ behavior are the quickest to be adopted”.

Lola McKnight Co-founder of Shelter Animal Advocacy Fund, LA and Dog Trainer & Behavior Specialist completely agrees: “At the West LA city shelter we have an on going training program made up of volunteers and dog trainers. We work with as many of the dogs as possible teaching them basic obedience. Every time we show a dog who knows "sit" or walks well on leash, people are much more interested in adopting them. In addition, our dogs who participate in the K9 Connection program (at risk kids training shelter dogs) are also much more likely to be adopted.”

Prioritizing basic training for dogs at shelters is good on a number of levels: it keeps the dogs socialized and teaches them manners which, as we’ve seen above, makes them more desirable – but it also keeps them engaged and stimulated, helping prevent depression or other kennel-induced behavior problems that make it harder for a dog to find a home. And of course, for shelters that euthanize, adopting more dogs (faster) can mean fewer animals sent to the kill room.

How can you help? Well, the more volunteers a shelter has, the better its chances of being able to spare some resources to train the dogs – so do what you can! Walk dogs, train them, or just take on some shelter duties to free staff up to make this critical commitment. Fostering also helps – foster parents train and socialize dogs while caring for them in a home environment, helping to make sure they’re at their most adoptable.

So reach out to your local shelter now, to see what you can do to help them adopt out more dogs – helping a dog learn “sit” could save its life!

Children’s books you can use to teach compassion

In a world where violence and gore no longer elicit shock, it’s little wonder that some children are growing up thinking that it’s OK to abuse others, whether animal or human. But it’s not OK – and it’s the responsibility of parents, teachers and influential adults to help children learn and understand the concepts of compassion, empathy and humanity, starting as young as possible.

Stories are powerful tools in our humane education toolkit – reading to and/or with a child not only encourages literacy but helps to stimulate their natural curiosity, and introduces concepts of humane living in age-appropriate context.

The Institute of Humane Education has a new Children’s Literature section on their website, where they list some fantastic book suggestions for children of all ages. Options include fiction and non-fiction, picture books and chapter books – why not start by checking out the books listed under the “animal protection” category? There are some great Thanksgiving titles, or you could help a kid learn about adopting a dog, or why it’s not a good thing for cats to keep having kittens.

Come to think of it, some of these books might be useful for adults too!

 

Technorati Tags: literature,humane education,books,education,stories,library,animals,pets

Animal Rescue Volunteers – all they’re missing are capes!

Volunteers at a horse rescue – grooming, fixing fences and mending shelters – somebody’s got to do it!

Rebecca Poling’s latest Examiner article really sums up the daily heroic actions that animal rescue volunteers routinely take in stride.

Sometimes those heroic efforts are dangerous, extreme and all-out – when natural disaster strikes or yet another puppy mill is exposed and animals need to be airlifted to safety. These are the ones that make the news and thank goodness they don’t happen every day.

But more often, those heroic efforts are the daily gifts of time, attention, love and skill given by volunteers who sacrifice social lives, space in their homes and down time to keep the trains running in shelters and for animal rescue organizations nation-wide. These are the people who make sure animals are fed, cages are cleaned, prospective pets are socialized. These are the folk who put themselves out there to raise the funds that keep organizations’ doors open and animals alive. These are the ones who have to make hard decisions and take heartbreaking action every day because our society is conditioned to dispose of anything that is no longer convenient, and to blithely absolve itself of any accountability for the wellbeing of creatures in its care. These people are quiet heroes and deserve our deepest gratitude for their compassion, commitment and care. 

Everyone who takes a stand, who acts in defense of animals – however small that action – is a hero. Everyone who gives up something to make this world a better place for people and animals – no matter how small that sacrifice – is a hero. Sometimes it’s like holding back the tide, but every single person who keeps going and spreads compassion in the face of overwhelming odds every day is a hero.

The article’s last paragraph really sums it up: “Animal rescue is hard. It’s physically demanding and emotionally draining.  There is never enough money nor volunteers, and there is never enough time.  But they persevere. These are my heroes.”

Want to be a hero, too?  Volunteer, donate, foster or adopt. And if you work for a company that matches your donations or volunteer hours, take advantage of that to double your impact!

For more info:

• Volunteer match lists lots of volunteer opportunities with local rescue groups
• To donate visit JustGive and find an organization to support. 
• Want to adopt?  Check Petfinder for a list of area rescue groups and the homeless pets available now.

Using eBay for fun and (non) profit!

These darling little 18” diameter pet beds were recently posted on eBay as an eBay Giving Works charitable listing. That means that 10% of the proceeds from each sale will benefit Companions for Life.

First up, THANK YOU to spigem-1 for generously sharing the wealth (and Kudos for strategic placement of Model Chihuahua to showcase the fabulousness of your product – do the beds come ready-populated with one?!) – and thumbs up to eBay for helping people effortlessly do good while they indulge in some recreational commerce!

In fact, it’s so easy that over $126 million has found its way to charitable causes through the Giving Works program on eBay. So how can you get on the bandwagon? Well, buying something on eBay is a no-brainer with little blue-and-yellow ribbons identifying listings that support nonprofits, and it’s not just businesses who can donate a portion of their sale profits.

Anyone who posts something for sale can do it – so why not consider a charitable listing when it comes to selling that elliptical trainer that’s never been employed as anything but an expensive clothes rack or your ex boyfriend’s creepy boggle-eyed goldfish bowl. And in fact, you don’t even need to buy or sell something – if you’re still dipping your toe into the online auction space but you have a Paypal account, you can make an online cash donation of as little as $1 - or as much as your bank account can handle - to any nonprofit in the eBay Giving Works program!

Isn’t it great to do good without leaving home? Now go buy that pet bed – your pooch won’t be the only animal thanking you!

Here in this house...........

Here in this house...........
I will never know the loneliness I hear in the barks of the other dogs 'out there'.
I can sleep soundly, assured that when I wake my world will not have changed.
I will never know hunger, or the fear of not knowing if I'll eat.
I will not shiver in the cold, or grow weary from the heat.
I will feel the sun's heat, and the rain's coolness,
and be allowed to smell all that can reach my nose.
My fur will shine, and never be dirty or matted.

Here in this house...
There will be an effort to communicate with me on my level.
I will be talked to and, even if I don't understand,
I can enjoy the warmth of the words.
I will be given a name so that I may know who I am among many.
My name will be used in joy, and I will love the sound of it!

Here in this house...
I will never be a substitute for anything I am not.
I will never be used to improve peoples' images of themselves.
I will be loved because I am who I am, not someone's idea of who I should be.
I will never suffer for someone's anger, impatience, or stupidity.
I will be taught all the things I need to know to be loved by all.
If I do not learn my lessons well, they will look to my teacher for blame.

Here in this house...
I can trust arms that hold, hands that touch...
knowing that, no matter what they do, they do it for the good of me.
If I am ill, I will be doctored.
If scared, I will be calmed.
If sad, I will be cheered.
No matter what I look like, I will be considered beautiful and thought to be of value.
I will never be cast out because I am too old, too ill, too unruly, or not cute enough.
My life is a responsibility, and not an afterthought.
I will learn that humans can almost, sometimes, be as kind and as fair as dogs.

Here in this house...
I will belong.
I will be home.

(anonymous)

Canines, Cats and Cabernet on Sunday, November 8

Operation Kindness is North Texas’ largest and oldest no-kill shelter and they’d like to invite you to sip on fine wines, sample delicious hors d'oeuvres and bid on more than 200 outstanding auction items while mingling with fellow animal lovers at a benefit on November 8th.

It's from 3pm to 6pm at the Marriott Legacy Town Center (don't worry, the Cowboys play at night, so you can still get home in time for the game!) - for more information and to purchase tickets, please visit their website:
http://www.operationkindness.org/events/ccc_2009/

Garland taking steps in the right direction

Garland’s Mayor has been taking some positive steps to address the situation with the city’s shelter, as Rebecca Poling outlines in her recent Examiner article, but he’s got a ways to go and he’s going to have to be a champion change agent if he’s going to overcome the obdurate resistance of his own City Council. He has the support of the public, shelter management and even the shelter employees to improve shelter practices and programs, but he faces an uphill battle and is going to need continued public support as he tries to blaze a new, progressive path for the city’s animal shelter. We urge you to keep up the pressure on the City Council until they listen to their constituents and get with the program!

A group that works to unchain dogs

When Companions for Life worked with other animal advocates in the metroplex to champion the new city ordinances adopted in Dallas last year, one of those laws specified (among other things) that a dog cannot be tethered unless it is in the immediate possession and control of its owner – or it can only be tethered for no longer than is necessary (less than 3 hours) for the owner to complete a temporary task.

If a dog has to be confined outdoors, it must be in a fenced yard or other pen or structure that:  (i) is capable of preventing the escape of the dog;  (ii) has at least 150 sq. ft. of space per adult dog; and (iii) provides the dog access to the inside of a building, a dog house or other type of shelter.

In North Carolina, a positive, upbeat group of people called Coalition to Unchain Dogs is doing awesome work proactively reaching out to dog owners in that state and helping them comply with laws like this by building fenced areas in which a dog can live unchained.

Check out this video of one of their recent projects – it’s a joy to see how happy and grateful that dog is when his heavy chain is removed and he can run free! You can see more happy stories on their website - http://unchaindogs.net/tails.html.

These groups are doing great work – not only do they ensure spay/neuter services are provided to dogs they help, but their positive stance is more likely to change minds and open hearts of people who think it’s OK to chain their dog than just about anything else.

OTHER GROUPS WORKING TO UNCHAIN DOGS:

Fences for Fido

Dogs Deserve Better

Helping Animals

Mothers Against Dog Chaining

Chained dogs are unhappy, unsafe and dangerous – please don’t leave your dog tethered all day – find a group who can help you build a fence, and your dog’s gratitude and happiness will reduce your liability immediately!

Feral Friends Annual Fundraiser this Saturday

Feral Friends Community Cat Alliance annual fundraiser is this Saturday, October 3rd, from 6:30 - 9:30 at Artfest International. 

The lineup for the silent auction includes gift certificates for great restaurants including III Forks and Cantina Laredo, a makeup party at Elizabeth Arden, 4 tickets to Disneyland, a private wine tasting, symphony tickets, pet portraits, gift baskets and much more!  The evening's menu includes veggie hors de oeuvres, pasta and bread sticks plus two free drinks! 

Tickets are only $22 per person and are available on line.  Come on out and enjoy a night of fun in support of Feral Friends' mission to help control the overpopulation of cats in your community and help provide medical care and foster homes to adoptable cats and kittens.

For more info: Feral Friends Community Cat Alliance.

(Content courtesy of Rebecca Poling, our Dallas Animal Rescue Examiner – more of her articles here. Image courtesy of Urbancritter.)

“Hooray For The Underdog” Artists Reception This Friday, benefitting Animal Rescue of Texas

Friday, September 25th, Healey Grisham Studios and Hooray For The Underdog are hosting a reception showcasing new works of Beverly Ann Moore and benefitting Animal Rescue of Texas. 

The event runs from 6:00 - 8:00 p.m. and wine & hors d'oeuvres will be served.  Plus one lucky dog will win a featured art piece!

Healey Grisham Studios are located at 2036 Commerce Street in Dallas – c’mon down and join us!

Dog Poetry : "THE LIFE OF A PUPPY

Someone sent us this sweet, anonymous poem and we had to share it - enjoy!

This morning, I woke up & kissed my dad's head.
I peed on the carpet, then went back to bed.
"The life of a puppy, oh my, this is great."
Then I thought about breakfast," I hope it's not late."

Mom took me outside, we walked for a while.
This never fails to make Mama smile.
I sniffed of everything, that we did pass,
I ate something weird - it gave me gas.

I'm sure God loves me, I know that is true.
He gave me so many great things to chew.
Rugs, plants or rocks, I really don't care.
What I truly like best, is Dad's underwear.

That obedience book was sort of yummy.
Though it didn't sit well on my poor puppy tummy.
I threw up a bit, but that was all right,
When Mom found it later, I was well out of sight.

I made streamers of T. P., while running at full speed.
Mom is pretty quick -- but I was still in the lead.
I flew under the bed, and Mom flew past,
She stopped-shook her head, and breathed,
"You're too fast."

Mama later phoned Daddy, and said, "It was frightening!"
That afternoon, she was sure I'd pooped lightning.
She'd sat at the computer, while I chewed the cord,
She thought I was mad, but I was just bored.

When Mama had enough, couldn't take anymore,
That's when my tushy got shoved out the door.
I love it inside, but outside is best.
Lay in the cool grass, and had a good rest.

That didn't last long, there was too much to do--
Can't quite remember where I hid Daddy's shoe.
I found an old bone, and scratched at a flea,
I watched the dumb squirrels as they jumped in a tree.

I barked at the kids, when they got off the bus.
I can't figure out why this makes Mama fuss.
I barked at the neighbor, I barked at the wind.
I barked and barked, till Mom yelled, "COME IN."

The sun dipped in the west-soon Daddy would come!
I sure love my daddy: we always have fun.
I barked at my daddy, then turned on my charms,
I woo-wooed, "Hello," then jumped in his arms.

Sitting under the table -- it's sooo hard to wait.
Daddy slipped me a goodie right off his plate.
I raced through the house, and scattered my toys,
Ricocheted off the furniture, and made lots of noise.

Mom found her purse - the one I abused.
Daddy let loose a chuckle. Mom asked "Amused??"
I cowered down low, I must be in trouble.
Dad said, "Wasn't MY boy, it must be his double!"

Mom turned off the TV, and said,"Time for bed."
Dad said "Let's go boy," and patted my head.
I got in my spot, between Mom and Dad,
I thought 'bout my day and what fun I had.

Mama kicked out my bone from the covers below,
Then let loose a sigh -- a sigh deep and low.
She gave me a kiss, and snuggled me tight,
And whispered so softly, 'My darling goodnight'.

Author Unknown

Garland’s troubles keep multiplying

**JUST IN**

Garland’s euthanasia practices may be ethically questionable, but new evidence shows that the shelter may also have been violating State law in their choices of animals to put down.

The Dallas Morning News claims to have obtained records showing that the Garland animal shelter “has been gassing young, sick or elderly cats and dogs in violation of state law, probably causing them a slower, more stressful death.”

The shelter may also have been putting down animals immediately upon intake, in violation of city rules stating how long animals must be kept before being euthanized.

Read the full article here.

Garland Still Uses Gas to Euthanize Unwanted Pets

It’s highly controversial, widely held to be archaic and inhumane, but it’s still legal in Texas and the Garland animal shelter continues to use it as a preferred method of putting down unwanted animals. It’s carbon monoxide gas – the same poisonous gas your car’s exhaust puts out – only highly concentrated and about 80% of Garland’s euthanized animals die by carbon monoxide gassing.

Texas state legislators maintain that this method is necessary to enable shelters with only one or two people (generally a town Sheriff and deputy) to be able to euthanize an animal without requiring the skills necessary to effectively use the more acceptable sodium pentobarbital injection.

Garland has almost 20 people on staff, however, including animal control officers already trained in both methods of euthanasia and a full time vet, so there’s no reason for them to maintain an arguably less effective, less humane way to end an animal’s life. But they continue to insist on using the gas option, and now that they’re aware of the practice, and the controversy surrounding it, Garland residents are appalled.  Petitions have been signed, comments abound on blogs and news sites, and citizens are speaking out at the Garland City Council meetings. In vain, it would appear – the Garland shelter is standing by it's questionable decision, ostensibly for the good of its employees, claiming it’s less stressful to gas an animal than it is to administer a lethal injection.

When is it NOT stressful to kill a perfectly healthy and viable companion animal? Garland’s efforts to protect their employees are likely well intentioned but misguided. Sure, gassing an animal in another room is less personal than holding it in your arms and watching the life fade from its eyes, but it can be no less traumatic to know that the animal in the gas chamber died terrified and alone, instead of in the arms of someone who truly cared and shuffled them off this mortal coil as gently and lovingly as possible.

Garland City Council needs to listen to their constituents, evaluate the merits of each solution and – above all – keep the animals’ best interests in mind when making decisions about the operations of their animal shelter.

More information:

• Rebecca Poling’s Examiner article
• Dallas Morning News article 

Have your say:

Comment on the Garland blog and help shape the conversation

Fancy a round of golf on Saturday?

Uncle, available for adoption from Richardson Humane Society

Richardson Humane Society's 8th Annual Canine Classic golf tournament will be held Saturday, October 3rd at Oakridge Country Club in Garland with a shotgun start at 1pm. 

The two person Scramble costs only $ 90.00 per person which includes green fees, golf cart, range balls, dinner, and a goody bag.  Mulligans and raffle tickets can be purchased for $5 each.

As a nonprofit organization, Richardson Humane Society relies solely on donations to rescue, treat, and place deserving animals into for-ever homes. To date they have rescued and placed over 1,600 dogs and cats into loving homes.

Hurry - you can sign up online and get a free subscription to Golf Digest, but you must do so by tomorrow, Thursday, September 18th!

(Content courtesy of Rebecca Poling, our Dallas Animal Rescue Examiner – more of her articles here.)

Remembering lost friends on National Pet Memorial Day.

The International Association of Pet Cemeteries designated the second Sunday of September (that’s today) as National Pet Memorial Day.

Today, let’s all take the opportunity to remember lost loved pets, and to celebrate the joy and unconditional love they brought into our lives as our devoted companions.

For those who may have lost a pet recently, no words can salve the raw pain of your bereavement, but perhaps sharing this day of remembrance with others who have grieved might provide some small solace.

Some words of advice when dealing with the loss of a furry family member (yours or someone else’s) include:

• Grief and loss, like love, is a very personal thing and not everyone experiences it the same way. Know that whatever you’re feeling is OK, and that you have the right to process this loss in whatever way works best for you.
• Acknowledge that, for many people, pets are not just animals we own – they are family members and loved just as deeply as a child or sibling. That is a valid love, and the loss is every bit as valid and painful as if we lost any other of our family members. So cut yourself (or your grieving friend) some slack, and be kind.
• Trite as it may be, time WILL take away some of the pain. Let it. And hold on to the special memories.

Some suggestions for marking National Pet Memorial Day

• Write a poem, story, or song about and/or dedicated to your pet, or create a tribute video
• Write a letter to your pet expressing feelings you may be struggling with, tell them how much you miss them, or thank them for the wonderful memories you have
• Share photographs and stories with family or friends; remembering the special times, the love and joy they brought us
• Visit their burial site, hold a remembrance ceremony with family and friends
• Create a living memorial by planting a tree, bush, or flower garden
• Create an online memorial, whether it be on a pet memorial website, blog or other site
• Explore the Internet for pet memorial sites with inspiring stories of love and devotion between people and their companions
• Make a personalized magazine cover for your pet, a great way to catalog the fond memories of the times shared using pictures, and great headlines to share with everyone
• Use this day to volunteer at your local animal shelter or a rescue group
• Use this day to make a donation in memory of your companion to a local animal charity, shelter or rescue group

We at Companions For Life are remembering our own precious pets who have travelled to the Rainbow Bridge as well as the millions of pets across the country who have died at the hands of irresponsible owners, or in shelters for want of a loving home. May those bright souls find comfort at the Bridge and a respite from a harsh world. RIP beloved pets and all those lost, abandoned or abused.

(post by Urbancritter)

Save money on your pet's prescription medicines!

Anyone who’s had a sick pet knows that it can get expensive fast – particularly if your furry friend needs ongoing medication. So what great news to know that there’s an opportunity for Dallas County residents to save up to 65% on prescription drugs – for you and your pet!

The new Dallas County Coast2Coast RX Card offers substantial savings on prescription drugs, including prescriptions for your pet.  There are no health restrictions, no income or age requirements, and the program covers both brand-name and generic drugs.

Participating pharmacies include Wal-Mart, Walgreens, CVS, Sam's Club, Tom Thumb, Target, Kroger, Minyard, Costco and many more.

A complete list of participating pharmacies is available online and you can even print your new drug card right from the website.  So if you've got a diabetic cat, an arthritic dog - or any pet on prescription medicines - and you live in Dallas County, this little card could mean big savings!

For more info: Dallas County Coast2Coast RX Card.

Photo courtesy UrbanCritter. Exciting news courtesy of our President, Rebecca Poling, our Dallas Animal Rescue Examiner – more of her articles here.

SPCA of Texas offers $5,000 reward in cat killer case

As if there weren’t enough reasons to keep your cat inside, some deranged individual in Northwest Dallas has given us all another one by going on a killing spree, strangling and dismembering neighborhood cats.

Although this is not an isolated incident (there are too many stories of cats being killed and mutilated all across North Texas, whether by animal abusers or urban wildlife), it is sufficiently disturbing that the SPCA of Texas is offering a $5,000 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the perpetrator.

"There is a well-documented link between animal cruelty and human violence." said SPCA of Texas President James Bias. "Helping the Dallas Police Department bring these individuals to justice will help stop the cycle of abuse." Anyone with information about the cat killings should contact Corporal Kimberly Crawford with the Dallas Police Department at 214-670-6037.

For more info: Learn how to report animal cruelty, or check out A Safe Cat Is A Happy Cat.  Robert Wilonsk writes for Dallas Observer's Unfair Park blog and he recaps a  conversation with the lead DPD investigator in the case.  Think your outdoor cat will never be happy indoors?  Bringing an Outside Cat In tells you how to do it successfully.

An inspiring and compassionate video - please watch and share!

Some information below (copied from the YouTube posting):

Jerry Borders is a Dallas, Texas animal activist. After protesting Petland for months he decided to write a song against Petland and puppy mills. This is a personal video. It is not associated with any animal protection organization.

Some background (just in case you haven’t been across this issue):

The Humane Society of the U.S. investigated Petland and found that they are linked to puppy mills where the breeding mothers and also male dogs spend their lives living in cages (on wire floors) and pens breeding over and over to supply pet shops and internet breeders.
http://tinyurl.com/64mkh6

PetSmart and PetCo do NOT sell puppies, but instead ONLY invite rescue groups into their stores to adopt out the dogs and cats who need to find their forever homes. I wish they’d do the same with Ferrets, rodents, birds and fish but dogs and cats is a start.

Five things you can do to help:

1. PLEASE Consider adoption first when getting a pet. Animal shelters are filled with dogs and cats of all breeds and sizes who need and deserve loving homes. Nationwide, approximately 25 percent of the dogs in shelters are purebreds.
2. Find a responsible breeder and visit their premises in person to see how the parent dogs are living and the conditions in which the puppy was raised. Responsible breeders house their dogs as members of the family and do not keep them confined to cages.
3. Don't be fooled by common claims made by pet stores when pushing their puppies. Good breeders do not sell to pet stores because they want to meet the families who are taking home their puppies.
4. Don't be swayed by a great website or ad: Many of the puppy mills The HSUS has raided in recent years hid behind beautiful and deceiving websites promising "family raised" puppies.
5. Avoid the temptation to "rescue" a puppy mill puppy by buying him. Your purchase will only help perpetuate a cruel industry and another dog will quickly fill his cage.

For more information on how to get a puppy from a shelter or a responsible breeder, go to www.humanesociety.org/puppy

To join the Petland protests in Frisco, Plano, Dallas and Arlington please send your name and e-mail address to Dr. John Pippin at: jjpippin@sbcglobal.net

Technorati Tags: Jerry Borders,Change Some Hearts,Puppy Mills,Pit Bulls,Chained Dogs,Petland,PetSmart,PetCo,animal abuse,animal welfare,humane society,HSUS

Housecat Housecalls on Animal Planet

Long before Victoria Stillwell was addressing doggie behavioral issues and promoting positive and humane training methods on her hit TV show “It’s Me or the Dog”, a little show in Australia called “Harry’s Practice” featured a beautiful and smart lady vet called Dr. Katrina Warren, who’d advise on pet health and behavior.

Well the combination of beauty, compassion and an interesting accent has proved a crowd pleaser, but with so many dog training programs out there, who’s talking to cat lovers with feisty felines? Who else but Dr. Kat?!

Dr. Katrina is currently hosting Housecat Housecall® on Animal Planet, Saturdays 10.30am ET.

Each week she will visit two families and, with the help of the Housecat Housecall® Mentors Dr. Karen Sueda and Dr. Rich Goldstein, she'll try to make some sense out of a wide range of feline puzzlers. Whether it's just a quirky behavior or something more complex, Dr. Katrina and her team work out real solutions that help bring peace, harmony, and well-being back to the homes of cats and owners.

Check it out and let us know what you think!

I am an Animal Rescuer

We have no idea who wrote this but it really does sum up the heart of an animal rescuer.

On behalf of all the animals saved by courageous people who put themselves, their safety and their financial wellbeing on the line, time and time again, to create a more humane world - THANK YOU.

I am an Animal Rescuer.

My job is to assist God's creatures.
I was born with the drive to fulfill their needs.
I take in helpless, unwanted, homeless creatures
   without planning or selection.
  I have bought cat food with my last dime.
I have patted a mangy head with a bare hand.
  I have hugged someone vicious and afraid.
  I have fallen in love a thousand times.
  And I have cried into the fur of a lifeless body
   too many times to count.

I have Animal Friends and friends who have animal friends.
I don't often use the word "pet".
  I notice those lost at the road side
  and my heart aches.
  I will hand raise a field mouse
and make friends with a vulture.
I know of no creature unworthy of my time.

I do not want to live forever if there aren't
animals in Heaven, but I believe there are.
Why would God make something so perfect
and leave it behind?

Some may think we are masters of the animals,
but the animals have mastered themselves...
something people still haven't learned.

War and abuse make me hurt for the world,
but a rescue that makes the news gives me hope for mankind.
We are a quiet but determined army
and we are making a difference every day.

There is nothing more necessary than warming an orphan,
nothing more rewarding than saving a life,
no higher recognition than watching them thrive.
There is no greater joy than seeing a baby play
who, only days ago, was too weak to eat.

By the love of those who I've been privileged to rescue,
I have been rescued.

I know what true unconditional love really is,
for I've seen it shining in the eyes of so many,
grateful for so little.

I am an Animal Rescuer.
My work is never done.
My home is never quiet.
My wallet is always empty,
but my heart is always full.

Happy Birthday Rebecca!

Today our President, Rebecca Poling, celebrates her birthday and all the animals she has helped (and continues to be an awesome advocate for) celebrate the day she was put on this earth too!

So it came as no surprise that instead of gifts from her friends, Rebecca asked us to donate to Companions for Life to help her continue doing good for animals. Naturally we did, and I’d like to ask you to join us.

For today only, click here to go to Rebecca’s Facebook cause and donate whatever you are comfortable with.

Every dollar helps us drive humane education initiatives and shelter outreach, and enables us to partner with other animal welfare groups to lobby City, County and State government for improved companion animal laws in support of our mission: No More Disposable Pets!

Happy Birthday Rebecca, from the Companions for Life team and all the animals you help!

(posted by Urbancritter)

Dog Health Alert: Canine Flu Outbreak

All dog owners, shelters, and doggie daycare or boarding facilities need to be aware that Canine influenza, the potentially deadly and highly infectious H3N8 virus commonly known as dog flu, is spreading.

An article on Discovery News channel today notes that the virus has already claimed the life of at least one dog in Virginia and is now affecting dogs in at least four other states: Colorado, New York, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania.

Not only can dogs catch Canine flu from each other, but they can also catch it from humans who may have come into contact with infected animals. Because this virus is a mutation of an original equine virus, thereby already transmitting across species, the risk of dog-to-human infection is a definite possibility in the future.

The article notes “Symptoms in dogs can include fever, lethargy, loss of appetite and a respiratory infection that may last a few weeks. One to five percent of victims die from related hemorrhagic pneumonia.”

There is a vaccine, however it was only released three weeks ago. According to an article on the AVMA website treatment is, as with any viral disease, largely supportive. Secondary bacterial infections can be treated with broad-spectrum antibiotics.

So what should you do? Well, know that any situation that brings dogs into contact with each other increases the risk of transmission, however that risk can be mitigated with good infection control practices by shelters, kennels, and daycare facilities (and you!).

If you suspect your dog may have, or have been exposed to, canine influenza see your vet as soon as possible, follow good virus control procedures (essentially the same as for people-flu: wash your hands often and disinfect your clothes and surfaces regularly, to reduce cross-contamination) and keep them isolated from other dogs until you have the all-clear. If your dog is clearly exhibiting symptoms, be responsible and quarantine them immediately!

As with flu in people, the key is not to panic but to be vigilant and proactive about helping prevent the spread of the virus. Good nutrition and hydration can also help keep your dog’s immune system strong, so they are more resilient to health issues.

For additional information and updates, please visit these websites:

• American Veterinary Medical Association - www.avma.org
• University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine - www.vetmed.ufl.edu/pr
• Cornell University Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory - http://www.diaglab.vet.cornell.edu/issues/civ.asp
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention - www.cdc.gov/healthypets
• Association of Shelter Veterinarians - www.sheltervet.org

Just what the doctor ordered – some CODY medicine!

 

Cody really needs a forever home ASAP.  Please help.  He LOVES people and gets along great with dogs.  This cat is as sweet as can be - young, playful, cute – with LOADS of personality.  What’s not to love?!

He’s a bit of a cheeky guy though, and doesn't get along well with some other cats.  He might do quite well with a dominant female, though - someone who can put him in his place when he gets too feisty! 

Send us a message to info@companionsforlife.org if you can give this guy a home – he’ll repay you with lots of love and fun!

Dog-A-Poolooza this Saturday 8/22 in Garland, Tx

This Saturday, August 22th 2009, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., Companions For Life will be at the Garland Bark Park for "Dog-A-Poolooza", a splash-and-swim day for you and your dog at Holford Park Pool, 2322 Homestead Garland, TX 75044.

The cost is only $5 per dog plus $1 per person.  Proceeds benefit Garland Bark Park's efforts to save the lives of dogs and cats left at the Garland Animal Shelter by hosting monthly events where the public can find meet wonderful dogs, cats, kittens and puppies in need of loving homes.

All Dallas area residents and their friendly dogs are welcome, but leave any aggressive or un-socialized canines at home please.  This is a fun, hi-energy, event not suitable for babies and toddlers.  Children under 12 are welcome but will not be allowed in the pools.

There will be a raffle and many great vendors, and don't worry if your dog is not registered, the City of Garland will be more than happy to help you do just that.  So come on out and play and help raise money for homeless animals in Garland!

For more info: Garland Bark Park's Dog-A-Poolooza.  Photo courtesy Garland Bark Park. Content courtesy of Rebecca Poling, our Dallas Animal Rescue Examiner – more of her articles here.

August 12 is Adopt-a-less-adoptable-pet day!

Every shelter has them – the pets nobody thinks of or wants, for whatever reason: superstition; fear; misunderstanding; indifference... That big, black dog or “bully breed” who might otherwise have been a loyal and loving companion; the senior cat who still has years of mellow love to give; the special-needs pet who is an inspiring example of adaptability and courage – these animals are passed over time, and time again, for the adorable kitten (the result of an unwanted litter thanks to someone not bothering to spay/neuter their pet); the fashionable breed dog that fits in a handbag; the pet that looks like the star of a movie…

These hard-to-adopt pets don’t deserve to languish in a shelter, or ultimately be euthanized, simply because they’re different – they’re every bit as special as any other animal needing a home! Which is why Petfinder has designated August 12 as "Adopt-a-Less-Adoptable-Pet Day” - Shelters and rescue groups across North Texas will be showcasing their hard-to-adopt pets on August 12th as one more way to help end the euthanasia of adoptable pets.

Are you looking for a new pet? Will you consider broadening your criteria to include an older pet, or one with medical needs? Get to know that big black dog hiding in the back of his cage, or that midnight-colored cat. Pet a pit bull and see how his heart just bursts with joy and the hope that you might want him to join your family! Learn about how easily some medical conditions are managed and realize it’s not so hard after all…

Petfinder survey on which pets are the hardest to place - http://www.petfinder.com/lessadoptablepetday

Please consider those hard-to-adopt pets – with hundreds more dogs hitting Texas shelters this week after yet another massive puppy mill bust, finding homes for pets already waiting to be adopted is even more critical!

For more info: The Metroplex Animal Coalition has a list of more than 50 member groups, many of whom will be participating.  Or go straight to http://www.petfinder.com/lessadoptablepetday.

Let’s open our minds – and our hearts on August 12!

Priceless…

For adoptable pets near you, check out http://www.dallasanimalservices.org/ or www.petfinder.com

If dogs were our teachers..

If dogs were our teachers, we would learn things like:

• When loved ones come home, always run to greet them with love in your heart and on your face.
• Never pass up the opportunity to go for a joy ride.
• Allow the experience of fresh air and the wind in your face to be pure ecstasy.
• Take naps.
• Stretch before rising.
• Run, romp, and play daily.
• Thrive on attention and let people touch you.
• Avoid biting when a simple growl will do.
• On warm days, stop to lie on your back on the grass.
• On hot days, drink lots of water and lie under a shady tree.
• When you're happy, dance around and wag your entire body.
• Delight in the simple joy of a long walk.
• Eat with gusto and enthusiasm. Stop when you have had enough.
• Be loyal and honest. Never pretend to be something you're not.
• If what you want lies buried, dig until you find it.
• When someone is having a bad day, be silent, sit close by. All will be well.

How much richer would our lives be if we learned these doggie lessons? It goes to show animals are often much, MUCH wiser than we are! THANKS, Dogs, for being awesome role models of appreciation, love and simplicity!

Take extra care of your flat-faced dog in the heat

We heard today of a bulldog out on his daily walk yesterday, who keeled over from heat stroke and was unable to be resuscitated. The owner is understandably beside herself with grief and guilt, never having suspected that the dog was at a higher risk of heat-related complications because of his sweet, flat face. Our condolences to her, and an urgent call out to any of you with flat-faced pets to be especially vigilant about your pet’s comfort and wellbeing when the temperatures soar.

Flat faced, or brachycephalic, dogs and cats are more susceptible to the heat and humidity because their unique anatomy is inefficient in general and their airways are also more likely to become inflamed and swollen in stressful conditions, further restricting airflow and making it even harder to breathe. According to this article on the subject, “the flat face design [also] encourages saliva to evaporate from the tongue more quickly than it otherwise would. This impedes the cooling effect the tongue has on the blood circulating through the tongue. This in turn makes the body cooling process far less efficient than in other breeds.”

Dogs really rely on being able to pant, to regulate their body temperatures and if you have a breed that is more likely to suffer in the heat because of their flat face, please be extra observant of their behavior and breathing.

Some common sense summer precautions include:

• Know any potential issues your pet’s breed might have – now you know your flat-faced pets are less tolerant of heat and humidity, you can take extra steps to keep them safe and comfortable when the mercury rises.
• If you have air conditioning, leave Fido inside when it’s seriously hot (with the A/C on, of course!)
• Don’t take your dog for a walk in the middle of the day – instead, take them out in the the cool morning or in the evening. And don’t walk them on the hot pavement (you try it, barefoot with the only part of your body that can sweat, on hot asphalt or concrete!) – make sure they have some grass or shady areas to walk on.
• Always provide plenty of cool fresh water and, if your dog stays outside, make sure they have someplace shady throughout the day so they can escape the sun.
• NEVER, NEVER, NEVER leave your dog in a car on a warm or hot day! Temperatures inside a car can easily rise to 120 degrees Fahrenheit under the summer sun. Even if the outside temperature is only 70 degrees, the inside of a car can cause heat stress and even heatstroke.
• If you take your dog with you, don’t leave them sitting outside in the sun or without water while you’re browsing around in the air conditioned comfort of the shops or library. You’d be better off leaving them at home where they can go seek out some shade, or grab a drink from their bowl.

What to do if your dog is overheating? Some danger signs are:

• Unusually sluggish or unresponsive
• Pale or dark red gums, may be very dry
• Erratic breathing
• Glazed eyes
• Vomiting
• In the final stages the dog will suffer convulsions and unconsciousness

If you observe any of these symptoms it is imperative that you take action immediately!

• Get your dog into the shade and apply cold water or hose gently with a continuous stream of cool water.
• Submerge in a tub of cool water if possible.
• If possible apply ice packs or cold towels.
• If your dog is conscious allow him to drink small amounts of water or lick ice cubes. Do not force him to drink.
• Get veterinary attention immediately. You may save his life!

Great references for more information:

• Article by The Bulldog Club of Greater San Diego: Heat is a (Bull)dog’s #1 enemy!
• Brachycephalic Dogs (Flat Faced Dogs) And Summer Safety Tips
• Article on heat exhaustion in pets

Please pass this information on to friends and family with pets, particularly if they have a flat-faced breed – you might just save their life! Stay cool… :-)

Find out what local laws and ordinances apply to your pets

Being a responsible pet owner also means being a law-abiding citizen. Texas has many local and State ordinances pertaining to pet ownership, and it pays to know which ones apply to you. Violation of pet ordinances can result in fines or worse – being required to surrender your pet to a shelter, and you cannot claim ignorance as a legal defense.

To help you stay on the right side of the law, Rebecca has written a handy reference guide that makes it easy to know where to find out the laws in your area – read it and know your legal obligations!

Different ways of contributing to animal shelters and rescue groups

The latest Examiner.com article by Companions For Life President Rebecca Poling gives peoples various options for donating to animal shelters and rescue groups without necessarily having to write a check.

In these tight times, cash donations are down as people tighten their belts – but that doesn’t mean you have to give up on giving altogether! Volunteer time and in-kind donations are just as valuable as cash, and both businesses and individuals can donate services such as printing, copying, cleaning, grooming, vet care and more. Remembering your local charity in your Will is another way of giving, and of course anyone who is lucky enough to work for a company that matches donations should absolutely take advantage of that “free money”!

As Rebecca points out, “No matter how you donate, the important thing is that you contribute what you can.” We’re all in this together!!

• Read the full article here.
• Other Examiner articles by Rebecca.

Top Dog Speaker Series – July 22: How to Use Social Media to Build Buzz and Further your Message

~ Top Dog Speaker Series ~

FREE for all local rescuers and shelter staff!

WEDNESDAY July 22, 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

REI, 4515 LBJ Freeway, Dallas, Tx 75244

-Featured Program –

How to Use Social Media to Build Buzz and Further your Message

Presented by

Shama Hyder

Founder, Click to Client, LLC, Web TV Show Host, and Social Media Marketing Expert

Ever wondered how to REALLY use Facebook and the like effectively?How EXACTLY did President Obama mobilize volunteers across the US using the power of the web?

Did you know that you can do the same? Come learn how to leverage social networking sites to further your cause and establish your expertise.

**NEW: This class has been approved for 1.5 CEU credits for ACOs by Texas Department of State Health Services, Zoonosis Control Branch**

Please join us!  RSVP to info@companionsforlife.org.

Class size is limited.  Please no pets except certified service dogs.

Refreshments and door prizes courtesy of Companions For Life.

Free or low-cost spay/neuter options in North Texas

We all know that when finances are tight, people put off important-but-not-urgent-things, like servicing the car, getting that dental checkup – or having the family pet spayed or neutered. We do this even though we know it’s false economy – that the cost of fixing an overheated radiator, or getting a filling, or dealing with an unwanted litter is always more than what it would have cost to prevent the situation in the first place. But money’s tight, so we gamble that the unthinkable won’t happen.

Well we can do things to mitigate risk, like checking our oil before we take the car out, or being extra diligent about flossing, but it’s a lot harder to stop a couple of unfixed animals from getting it on while your back is turned (believe me, this weekend we couldn’t even get to a couple of horses fast enough who decided to get frisky right in front of our eyes! A MINUTE was all it took for Crystal to get into Bandit’s paddock and we ended up with a vet bill and Plan B for ponies).

To make it easier for pet owners in North Texas to be responsible in spite of tough times, our President Rebecca Poling wrote an article for the Examiner outlining where people can find free or low-cost spay/neuter programs in the area.

Many of the organizations she references also offer low-cost vaccinations, micro chipping and wellness services although you may need to call ahead and inquire about any additional charges such as in-heat or pregnancy termination charges or pain medications.

Please note that Texas State law requires all animals to be vaccinated for rabies. A rabies vaccination will be given to any animal not already vaccinated. The rabies vaccination may cost up to $20 over and above the cost of any spay/neuter or wellness services. 

For more info: Already spayed or neutered your pet but need help with the cost of vaccinations?  Animal Allies of Texas is holding a low-cost vaccination clinic July 25th.  Or check out this article on low-cost clinics open year-round.   Visit these links to find out what vaccinations are recommended for your cat, or for your dog.

So now there’s no excuse - you can be a responsible pet owner even if your wallet is a little lean, and by preventing unwanted litters, you’re saving lives!

Responsible Pet Owners Alliance - not quite what it seems to be

You’d think a group called Responsible Pet Owners Alliance would be about responsible pet ownership, right? Not so much, according to this statement below, from the Texas Humane Legislation Network and HSUS. Please be aware of the RPOA’s real agenda!

Responsible Pet Owners Alliance (RPOA) is a front group for commercial dog and cat breeding facilities and consistently fights any legislation or proposed city ordinances that would implement spay/neuter programs or regulate large-scale commercial breeding operations in any way.  

RPOA argues that any restrictions on commercial breeding could actually result in a shortage of dogs and cats.  Who are they kidding?  More than 700,000 companion animals were destroyed in animal control facilities and humane societies in Texas last year alone simply because there were no homes for them.  Meanwhile, commercial breeders continue to flood the pet market with thousands more puppies and kittens, exacerbating the pet overpopulation problem even more.  With no measures taken, there is little chance that we can even reduce the euthanasia numbers in our Texas shelters, let alone move toward no-kill city-run facilities for decades to come. 

RPOA is part of the problem, not part of the solution.  They are fighting to keep the floodgates of pet overpopulation open while animal welfare agencies and animal control officers try in vain to control the rising tides.

RPOA members frequently malign legitimate animal protection organizations such as the Texas Humane Legislation Network (THLN), The Humane Society of the United States (The HSUS) and the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), alleging them to be “animal rights extremists,” and peddling an assortment of urban myths in an attempt to destroy the reputations of those who are effectively exposing RPOA for what they are. Please know that RPOA's baseless allegations and fear-mongering tactics are motivated by the financial greed of the puppy mill and pet trade industry.

In truth, Texas Humane Legislation Network (THLN), the HSUS and the ASPCA are mainstream organizations whose efforts to protect animals from cruelty are supported by law enforcement officials and criminal prosecutors throughout the state. 

Another frequent RPOA talking point alleges that The HSUS wants to “end pet ownership” and “cause the extinction of animals.”  Puppy millers, cockfighters, dogfighters, canned hunters and other animal abusers use this same false accusation repeatedly as an attempt to deflect attention from their own actions.  The HSUS's long history of promoting humane care for our animal companions -- as well as celebrating the joy that they bring to our lives -- stands on its own merits.

That every companion animal should live a long and happy life in a good home is the true objective of the Texas Humane Legislation Network, The HSUS and the ASPCA.