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ANIMAL ADVOCATE JOINS CAMDEN COUNTY ANIMAL SHELTER AS EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Media Release

Blackwood, NJ: The Camden County Animal Shelter (CCAS), whose primary goal is to reduce euthanasia for healthy, adoptable animals in Camden County, announced today the appointment of its new Executive Director.  Jennifer Andersch was selected following an extensive and thorough search process.

"We are committed to finding creative solutions to pet overpopulation and unnecessary euthanasia.  We require a professional who shares our objectives," explained Catherine Harr, Board Member.  "Ms. Andersch's professional experience, combined with her in-depth knowledge of animal rescue, makes her the ideal candidate to move this organization forward."

Andersch joins CCAS with a BA in Communications from Rowan University and 15-years of public relations, marketing and fundraising experience.  In 1999, she began her second "career" as a volunteer rescuer upon completing her first T-N-R (trap, neuter, return) project, where 150 feral cats were living on the grounds of her workplace, and she took it upon herself to help them.  It took her almost a year to finish, but she explained, "After that, I was prepared to take on ANY challenge."  In addition to her new position with CCAS, she intends to continue her volunteer role as Vice-Chairwoman for Furrever Friends Rescue and Volunteers, Inc.  Andersch credits "Moomie" - her childhood pet cat - for inspiring her enduring love and respect for all animals.

CCAS' numerous programs have made a positive impact throughout the local animal welfare community.  They offer monthly low-cost spay/neuter clinics, maintain a network of over 100 foster homes, encourage T-N-R (Trap, Neuter, Return) programs for feral cats, partner with breed specific and local rescues, recruit valuable volunteers and implement multiple adoption programs and opportunities.  These programs are all in addition to housing 4000 homeless animals a year.  The result has been a rapid decline in CCAS's euthanasia rates.

Andersch's first goal is to pull the community together to cope with the current "kitten and puppy season", as animals arrive at the shelter in numbers 5 times greater than potential adopters.  She pleads, "We need the families of Camden County to understand the urgency here.  We need them to take action and come forward to foster animals, to adopt, and to volunteer at events and clinics. It is crucial that we actively work together for the survival of the animals coming into CCAS.  Each deserves to leave with a responsible, loving guardian".

The Camden County Animal Shelter was built in 1997 by the Camden County Board of Chosen Freeholders in response to the overwhelming stray/unwanted animal population in the county that overburdened other local shelters.
****

Pets for the Environment: Sign up for a healthy environment for pets

http://www.enviroblog.org

Did you know your pet's food, toys, and bed don't have to be tested for safety?

EWG found 35 toxic chemicals in dogs and 46 in cats - most at even higher levels than we find in people. And pets grow 7 times faster than humans, so what happens to them (like increased cancer rates) might happen to people soon.

That's why Eddie, a dog on a mission, founded Pets for the Environment with the help of Environmental Working Group.

Sign up to get pet health tips and updates. Then check out the Wall of Cute and Eddie's Healthy Pet Tips.

FDA Orders Pet Food Maker to Obtain Emergency Operating Permit

Consumer Inquiries: 888-INFO-FDA

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration issued an order requiring that Evanger’s Dog & Cat Food Co., Inc., in Wheeling, Ill., obtain an emergency permit from the FDA before its canned pet food products enter interstate commerce. 

A recent inspection revealed significant deviations from prescribed documentation of processes, equipment, and recordkeeping in the production of the company’s thermally processed low acid canned food (LACF) products. These problems could result in under-processed pet foods, which can allow the survival and growth of Clostridium botulinum (C. botulinum), a bacterium that causes botulism in some animals as well as in humans.   

“As outlined in the Food Protection Plan, the FDA uses a risk-based approach to locate the areas of greatest risk for foods, and targets preventive controls and inspections to those areas, “ said Dr. Stephen Sundlof, director, Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition.  “The FDA’s authority to issue an order requiring an emergency permit is an enforcement tool designed to prevent unsafe foods from reaching consumers.”

The FDA issues an “Order of Need for Emergency Permit” if the agency determines that a company fails to meet the regulatory requirements to process a product that does not present a health risk.  For Evanger’s to resume business, the company must document that corrective actions and processing procedures have been implemented to ensure that the finished product will not present a health hazard.

  
Botulism is a powerful toxin that affects the nervous system and can be fatal. The disease has been documented in dogs and cats. Signs of botulism in animals are progressive muscle paralysis, disturbed vision, difficulty in chewing and swallowing, and progressive weakness to the body. Death is usually due to paralysis of the heart or the muscles used in breathing.

In light of human botulism illnesses and recalls that occurred due to under-processed hot dog chili sauce, and potentially under-processed canned green beans, FDA has urged all LACF processors to review their operations and the apply scientific principals and regulations that have been established to provide a safe product. 

While FDA’s Center for Veterinary Medicine has authority over animal feed and foods, CFSAN is responsible for regulating all human and animal LACF processing.  The two centers are collaborating on this enforcement action.

#

Pet Tips by Allan: There Will Be Times When You Will Be Apart

Source http://AboutDogs.info


Unless you have no intention of ever being apart
from your dog, then it is a wise decision to train
it to be happy while you have periods apart.

As we have our pets for many years there will
generally be times when there is no alternative
but to leave your dog alone or with someone else.

The sooner they become accustomed to staying on
their own as puppies the easier it will be for
both you and your dog.

It is a lot harder to leave an older dog on it's
own if you have never been apart since it was a
puppy.

Dogs can get separation anxiety quite easily as
they cannot be told when we will be back if ever
and they will assume that you have left them and
are not coming back.

By training them when they are young they will
accept that you will be gone for while and will
remain happy knowing that you will be coming back
at some time.

I know people who have failed to do this and they
have the burden of never being able to leave their
dog alone with anyone else.

This can make certain situations very difficult
and I have seen these people take their dog to a
wedding and a funeral and having to check
constantly throughout proceedings to see that
their dog is happy in their vehicle while they are
gone for very short periods of time.

This is unfair on the animal as there can be times
when it is not possible for you to be with your
dog, in the case of a hospital emergency as an
example. If the dog is trained to accept these
times away it won't be a big deal but a dog who
has never been apart from it's owner could be
devastated by this time away.

It is in your dogs best interests to get used to
time apart so if you haven't done so already,
start a plan to help it cope as soon as possible.

More Information:
http://AboutDogs.info/recommends/dogtraining.html

Related: More Pet Tips

Pet Tips: Flea Collars Can Kill Canines

source http://www.k9magazine.com

And in New Jersey, an entire litter of puppies, 6 weeks old, succumbed to what was later determined to be caused from a flea collar. Yet, not one of the puppies in the litter had ever worn such a device.

In each of the above true cases, the attending veterinarian reported that the deaths were needless and could have been prevented if a few simple facts have been known by the owners of those dogs. Moreover, veterinarians agree that literally 100% of the fatalities which do occur as a result of flea killing devices could be prevented.

It is commonly known that heavy infestation of fleas and ticks contribute to death and disease.  It is also known that more deaths and sicknesses are caused by fleas and ticks than are caused by flea killing devices. The sad part of it is that no deaths or severe illnesses should ever be attributed to flea collars.

continue

Pet Tips by Allan: Be Aware of Changes

Dog Quote: Properly trained, a man can be dog's best friend.
....Corey Ford

*********************************

One of the best things you can do for your dog besides regular exercise, good food, water and shelter, is to be aware of any changes that it might exhibit in all aspects of it's life.

Photo: Erica make a funny face....with her girlfriend Lacey (click photo to enlarge)

Particularly as dogs get older they might seem like they are just not interested in exercise any longer but this might be due to the fact that they are suffering from pain of some form or another.

Many older dogs suffer from arthritis and this can be very painful.

There are all sorts of remedies that can help your dog from natural remedies to ones that your local vet might prescribe.


Our beloved pets cannot talk to us and they can only hope that we are aware of their conditions by knowing what they are usually like and noticing any behavioral changes.

Even if a normally quiet dog starts whining or barking more often they might be trying to give you a signal that something is not quite right in their life.

A regular checkup at the Vet is a good solution to ensure that your dog is always in optimal health and that includes their mental state.

Older dogs can become depressed because they are no longer getting the required stimulation mentally and a depressed dog will suffer just as a human can do in similar circumstances.

If your dog starts to eat more or less food than normal this could be another sign that there is a problem and also if they gain or lose weight they could be suffering from some health problems.

Always be aware of their behavior and it will ensure that your dog has a happy and long life.

More Information:
http://AboutDogs.info/recommends/dogproduct.html



Thanks,


Allan
http://AboutDogs.info

'Big John' Coming to Philadelphia

source www.delawareonline.com

March 22.....Doomed by the need for costly oil and a costlier overhaul, the last conventionally powered aircraft carrier built in America will remain in Philadelphia in a "state of preservation," pending completion of the nuclear-powered USS Gerald Ford, CV-77.

Navy officials plan to keep the ship tied up at Pier 4 at the Navy Yard near the Philadelphia Cruise Ship Terminal as a hedge against a national emergency, while deciding on its longer-term duty as a museum or artificial reef.

Thousands were expected to turn out for a glimpse of the big ship, christened in 1967 by Caroline Kennedy, daughter of the country's 35th president.

Navy spokesman Chris Hatch said the Kennedy was expected to enter the bay at about 9 p.m. Friday and was due to tie up in Philadelphia at 2 p.m., but was unable to provide additional details.

read more

Letters: LOCAL PET LIMIT LAWS CAN FORCE PET OWNERS TO GIVE UP PETS!

LANDMARK SUPERIOR COURT CASE APRIL 16,  TO PROTECT RIGHTS OF ANIMAL CARETAKERS

If you were discovered to have more pets then your town deemed acceptable…which cat or dog would you choose to euthanize or  send off to a kill shelter or?

On April 16th, Furrever Friends (FFRV) Volunteer Jennifer Smith, with support from the local animal welfare community, will be going to NJ Superior court to argue that pet limit laws are unconstitutional.  An outcome in her favor would be a victory for the rights of every pet guardian and every animal rescue in NJ.  This is the first time such a case will be heard in NJ.

Representatives from the Camden County Animal Shelter, Animal Welfare Association, Hearts & Paws and LBM Animal Abuse Awareness Fund have already met with Ms. Smith, Council Oren Leib, Esq and expert witness Dr. Steven Milden to prepare for trial.

Pet Limit Laws – which vary from town to town – are usually established as an easy, inexpensive way to accomplish animal control. However, evidence shows that Pet Limits Laws are counterproductive by ignoring the core issue of animal overpopulation.  Such limits also prevent responsible guardians from adopting another pet and volunteers from fostering for rescue groups.  Education, low-cost spay/neuter programs, and enforced nuisance laws are proven approaches to impede hoarders, abusers and inconsiderate neighbors. But, many municipalities hide behind pet limit laws as a method of animal control instead.

Since the summer of 2006, the Borough of Brooklawn has been threatening to force Jennifer Smith, FFRV Board Member, to shut down her FFRV foster home for homeless animals. The cats and dogs, which rotate in and out of the home as they are adopted and rescued, bring her over the town’s “pet limit” of three.  The town would not succumb to attempted negotiations, and as a result Smith was forced to file the case with Superior Court or discontinue her rescue volunteer work. Although Brooklawn has made it clear that they do not want Smith operating a foster home in their town, the borough hall and even council members themselves continue to refer citizens to FFRV that need help with local strays.

The financial constraints of the trial, as well as the need to keep other foster spaces open in case Smith’s rescued cats and dogs are ordered to be removed, has forced this all-volunteer rescue to close intake.  For now, the volunteer rescuers will concentrate on gaining financial and moral support statewide, and – of course – work on adopting the foster animals currently in their program.



-Jen A., FFRV Volunteer 
FFRV.PETFINDER.ORG

There are two rules for success: 1) Never tell everything you know. - Roger H. Lincoln


RE: PET LIMIT CASE, Jen Smith vs. Brooklawn, NJ
Wednesday, April 16th - 10am

Pet Tips by Allan: Toys for your dog

Hey Bill ,

Dog Quote: The great pleasure of a dog is that you make a fool of yourself with him and not only will he not scold you, he will make a fool of himself
too.
....Samuel Butler

*********************************
Close your eyes Erica I have a surprise for you!

There are many benefits in giving your dog the right toys to play with.

While most people think that dog toys are only to relieve boredom this is not the only use for these toys.

Sure dog toys are excellent for relieving boredom and are especially good where you might have to leave your dog on it's own for periods of time,
but there are other reasons why you should consider buying your dog toys.

Some dog toys are designed to boost their intelligence where they will only get a reward after they have performed certain tasks.

These toys are a very effective method of training.

Other toys help a dog to know what they can chew and in doing so you can save yourself a lot of expense by not having to replace expensive items
throughout the house that can be destroyed at the teeth of your pet.

There are chewing toys that will help your dog strengthen and keep their teeth clean and there are toys that will help teach your dog with retrieval training.

You really need to decide what you want the toys for before buying and also to determine what the personality of your dog is before you can get the
right toys for it.

Some toys are designed to last for a short period of time when they will be replaced by new ones, and these are often the chewing variety.

Some toys of the chewing variety are flavored so you will need to check first to see what ingredients they have used for the flavoring or you might be buying a toy that your dog is allergic to.

These toys with flavoring often have preservatives in them so beware.

With such a wide variety of toys available on the market these days there is certain to be something that your dog will enjoy and make their life all
the more happy.

More Information:
http://AboutDogs.info/recommends/dogproduct.html

Allan
http://AboutDogs.info


-----------------------------------------------

Pet Tips by Allan: Treating your Dog's Arthritis

Hey Bill ,

Dog Quote: Ladies and gentlemen are permitted to have friends in the kennel but not in the kitchen.
....George Bernard Shaw

Lacey and Erica catching some rays in sunny Florida

*********************************

Dogs can suffer from similar ailments that we get as we age, including arthritis and pain in the joints.

Some breeds of dogs are more prone than others to getting certain ailments and you need to be aware of the possible problems that your particular
breed of dog might get as it grows older.

By giving your dog a warm place to lie when it sleeps you might be able to ward off arthritic pain.

By keeping the body weight down to acceptable levels for dogs that are prone to overeating and weight gain might stop your dog from developing
other symptoms that can affect the quality of life.

It is far better to control things that can affect the dogs health during the course of their life than to make them, and you, pay for ill health as
they age.

According to many dog experts our pets should be living for a lot longer than the current life expectancies that we have come to accept.

With good medication we can expect to enjoy more years with our dogs but it is just as easy to add many quality years to their life by ensuring that
they get the optimum nutrition and suitable living standards during the course of their life.

Most dogs are very hardy but even they will benefit from additional comforts and care.

More Information:
http://AboutDogs.info/recommends/dogproduct.html


Thanks,
Allan
http://AboutDogs.info

Related: Pet Tips

Bellmawr: Female Cat Missing, last seen Friday, Feb. 29th, Reward

 

Missing: From Mercer Ave and Creek Rd area of Bellmawr.

Her name is...Hazel...

Female, 6mth old fluffy, tri colored cat!

Family is very saddened and would love to see their cat back home!

 

Shes not familiar with the out doors.  Last seen Friday,  Feb 29..

 

Any info please call Kara at 856-313-2366..

 

Their will be a REWARD given to anyone who returns my cat!

Amber Alerts for Pets Help Owners Locate Missing Pals

Sites like FindToto.com and AmberAlertforPets.com Help to Locate Missing Pets

Source http://abcnews.go.com

Despite calling countless animal shelters in her New Jersey neighborhood and plastering the area with missing fliers bearing the dog's furry mug, Backer had no luck locating Mooch, who had managed to escape her front yard's invisible electric fence and disappear in broad daylight.

It wasn't until she discovered FindToto.com, one of the few Internet-based companies specializing in locating lost pets, that Baker found Mooch at a local country club, skinny and tick-ridden, but otherwise OK.

"[Losing a dog] is like losing your child. I was panicked and frantic," said Backer. "I had been spreading the news all over. But I couldn't hand out enough fliers or put them in enough places."

Source

http://abcnews.go.com/GMA/AmazingAnimals/story?id=4356199&page=1 

 

Gloucester City/Mt. Ephraim: Male Cat Found

FOUND GLOUCESTER/MT. EPHRIAM AREA:    MALE CAT, WHITE, FRIENDLY.  HE WAS FREEZING AND HUNGRY BUT IS SAFE NOW.

IF THIS CAT BELONGS TO YOU, PLEASE CALL JOYCE AT 856-979-1277 OR 856-428-8889. 

PROOF OF OWNERSHIP WILL BE NEEDED.

Pet Tips by Allan: Topic Obese Dogs

Hey Bill ,

Dog Quote: Man is an animal that makes bargains; no other animal does this....no dog exchanges bones with another.
....Adam Smith

*********************************

How much food does your dog really need?

Along with the general population of people, dogs are also suffering from obesity from eating the wrong food and eating too much food.

It is relatively easy to control the amount of
food your dog is eating and it is essential that
you gauge its weight on a regular basis to ensure
that it doesn't get obese.

Dogs can suffer from many different ailments due
to obesity including diabetes.

There are an increasing number of dogs suffering
from this disease and in most cases this could
have been avoided through the correct nutrition
and monitoring the amount of food the dog has been
eating.

Having a dog with diabetes will necessitate the
injection of insulin or in some cases taking of
pills to assist in the maintenance of the correct
sugar levels in their blood.

Obviously this involves additional expense and
inconvenience and there is also a danger that
should the insulin level be incorrect your pet
could die.

It makes sense then that your dog should only eat
what is good for it and in quantities that won't
result in it developing health problems later in
life.

Working dogs will need more food for the energy
that they will expend in the course of the day but
a dog that lays around the house all day and
doesn't get any exercise will not need to eat the
same portions of food.

You should weigh your dog on a regular basis and
see whether it is gaining or losing weight and
adjust the amount of food it is eating
accordingly.

More Information:
http://AboutDogs.info/recommends/dogfood.html

Thanks,

Allan
http://AboutDogs.info

Related: Pet Tips

Marion E. Mullary, born in Gloucester City lived in Deptford; a professional singer

p>Marion E. Mullary (nee Barr), age 65, passed away peacefully on February 20, 2008 at the J. F. Kennedy Hospital, with her family at her bedside. She was raised in Gloucester City, N.J. In 1961 she met and married the love of her life, Stephen Mullary. Together they moved to Deptford and have resided there for over 40 years. She will be remembered as a loving caring person who never turned her back on anyone in need. She formerly worked with the Deptford School District as a lunch aid, where she enjoyed sharing her life and energy with the students. Marion also was a professional singer who frequently sang in many South Jersey Nightclubs. After which she opened and operated, with her husband, The Mullary Fast Fuel Store at “Five Points,” together they shared and made life long friendships with many of their regular customers. To Marion this was a very enjoyable and satisfying part of her life. She was a fun-loving and energetic person who loved life to the fullest. Even through her recent sickness she always made it a point to go to work just for the opportunity to interact with those she loved whether it was family, friends or customers. Marion was preceded in death by her parents Bill and Cass Barr of Gloucester City and also by all of her siblings. She will be sadly missed by her husband of 48 years Stephen Sr. of Deptford; their children Stephen Jr. and his wife Mary of Deptford, Glenn E. Sr. and his wife Heather of Williamstown, Vincent Sr. and his wife Maria of Deptford, she was a second mother to Howard W. Riddell of Billingsport, Wayne E. Riddell of Westgrove, Lori G. Campbell of Bensalem, Judy Langsdorf of West Deptford and Howard Barr Jr. “Sonny”, her grandchildren Stephen III, David, Glenn Jr., Amanda, Jessica, Arianna and Vincent Jr. An uncle and aunt Ed Sr. and Elsie Cowgill, nieces, nephews and cousins. Relatives and friends are invited to her viewing Monday eve. 6:30-9 p.m. at the ETHERINGTON FUNERAL HOME (loc. 700 Powell Ave., Gloucester City) and again on Tuesday 10 a.m. to noon. A service of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 12:30 at St. Mary¹s Church. Interment will follow in Bethel Memorial Park. To honor Marion¹s life, her family has decided to create a yearly scholarship fund and all are invited to help honor her life by making donations to The Marion Mullary Scholarship Fund, c/o Mullary Fast Fuel, Inc., 108 Delsea Dr., Sewell, NJ 08080. Published in the Gloucester County Times on 2/24/2008.

Pet Tips by Allan: Junk Food for dogs

Hey Bill ,

Here's Today's Joke: What is a dog's favorite dinner?
Anything that is on your plate.

*********************************

There has been a marked deterioration in the general health of dogs since the introduction of processed dog foods.

Many of these foods offer very little nutritional value but it is their convenience and the fact that they have added flavors that ensure our pets
get delight in eating them that have increased the sales and popularity of this food.

Just as we might like to eat foods that contain sugar, which is detrimental to our health, our dogs also like to eat these low value foods
because they taste so good.

Most of the popular dog foods use by-products and are actually worse to feed our dogs than the scraps from our meal tables.

But therein lies another problem with many of the foods that we eat, unsuitable for dog consumption.

Some foods, as discussed in previous newsletters can actually be toxic to dogs so we are faced with the dilemma of knowing what is the best food to
feed our pets.

The best solution that many people are finding is to prepare their own dog food using only those ingredients that will enhance the health of the
dog.

There are several excellent books that teach you how to prepare your own dog food that will be nutritious and also cost effective.

Dogs find these foods tasty and they don't need the added sodium, preservatives and coloring to enhance the look and taste of the food.

It is well worth looking at this method to ensure your dog gets the optimum health from their food.

More Information:
http://AboutDogs.info/recommends/dogfood.html

Thanks,  Allan
http://AboutDogs.info

Related: Pet Tips

Military dog heading for the Hall of Fame

source www.thnt.com

By NINA RIZZO
GANNETT NEW JERSEY

EARLE — — A military working dog who recently returned — with his handler — from his first tour of duty in Afghanistan will be inducted into the New Jersey Veterinary Medical Association's Hall of Fame next month.

Renato, a 5-year-old German shepherd, has been paired with Master-at-Arms First Class (SW) John Washington for the past nine months. Together, they spent seven months in Bagram, where their primary duties were patrol and narcotics interdiction.

Washington, 36, of Burlington, said Renato — despite his 85 pounds of pure intimidation and muscle — is quite lovable and enjoys having his belly rubbed when he is not on the job. But when Washington puts his pooch to work, Renato focuses on his handler's commands, and no one but Washington can approach him.

read more

Does Your Dog Have Separation Anxiety?

 

source www.growingupwithpets.com

It's always a nice feeling to have your dog greet you at the door, but some dogs can be a bit excessive about it. Greeting you this way upon your return home is one common separation anxiety symptom. Simply put, separation anxiety is the fear of being left alone. If your dog has it, he is not alone. Animal behaviorists estimate that 10 to 15 percent of dogs exhibit symptoms of separation anxiety, which include:

Digging, chewing or scratching at doors or windows in an attempt to escape or reunite with you.

• Howling, barking and crying in an attempt to get you to return.
• Urination and defecation—even with house-trained dogs—as a result of distress.
• Destroying household objects.
• Clinginess or remaining close to you, even following you from room to room, while you're home.

Punishing a dog for separation anxiety behaviors will not solve the problem. You should understand your dog is not doing it intentionally; he is distressed and anxious because you are not there. This anxiety and nervous energy causes him to act out.

What Causes Separation Anxiety?

No one knows exactly. However, certain factors and triggers are common among separation anxiety cases. They include:
 

• A change in schedule that requires the pet to be left alone for longer periods of time than normal.
• Living in multiple homes or being abandoned by previous owners makes dogs susceptible to separation anxiety.

Ways To Treat It

Here are some commonly recommended ways to treat separation anxiety:
 

• Place the dog in a smaller space, such as a crate, where he can feel secure when you leave. However, if the dog panics when crated, do not force him in.
• Leave your dog an article of clothing that smells like you, such as an old T-shirt that you recently slept in.
• Teach your dog as many commands as possible, especially "sit," "relax" and "stay." The point of teaching anxious dogs to relax is to give them confidence. Do the exercise in all the rooms of the house and in the yard. Give praise and treats liberally.

Finally, do not make a big production out of your departures.

As always, make sure your dog is safe from pests and parasites. Ask your veterinarian for Sentinel^® (milbemycin oxime/lufenuron) Flavor Tabs^®, the only monthly oral 5-in-1 that protects against heartworm, intestinal parasites and fleas.

Dogs must be tested for heartworm prior to use. In a small percentage of treated dogs, digestive, neurological and skin side effects may occur.

Pet Tips by Allan: Crate Training

Hey Bill ,

Dog Quote: There are three faithful friends....an old wife, an old dog and ready money.
....Ben Franklin.

*********************************

Many people are under the false impression that you can only crate train puppies and they refrain from crate training older dogs as they think it is
too difficult.

There are also many people who think crate training is inhumane but done correctly this couldn't be further from the truth.

The dogs crate should never be used as a place to be sent when punished.

When dogs have been crate trained correctly they actually enjoy the security of having their own place to stay.


Even at times when they are not expected to stay in the crate the dog will find comfort in it's own area of the home.

Provided the crate is in a sheltered place and there is fresh water available they will be completely happy to have their own home.

Dogs often get possessive of their crate and other members of the family, children in particular, need to understand that this is the dogs special
area that they must respect.

The crate should always be kept clean and where possible the dog should have a favorite rug or blanket to sleep on in the crate.

The crate should always be made accessible for the dog with the door open when they aren't required to stay in the crate so they can feel free to come
and go as they like and stay in the crate if they feel like resting at times other than those destined for the crate door to be closed.

Older dogs can find the crate a very secure place as they become less confident with themselves when getting older.

If an older dog does have a mishap and urinate or
soil their crate it is very important that it is
cleaned immediately so they will continue to enjoy
their space.

More Information:
http://AboutDogs.info/recommends/dogtraining.html


Allan
http://AboutDogs.info

‘The animals Peter loved are safe’

 

source http://news.bestfriends.org

February 8, 2008 : 12:59 PM ET

Two homeless Iraqi dogs – Mama and Boris – are now safely on American soil thanks to the efforts of a soldier's family, a U.S. senator, and the Best Friends rapid response team.

Sgt. Peter Neesley, on his second tour of duty with the U.S. Army, began feeding a mama dog and her two puppies when he patrolled a Baghdad neighborhood. After one of the puppies was hit by a car and killed, Peter built them a red-and-white doghouse – equipped with blankets, a mattress and an Army insignia above the door. He lured the mama dog and her remaining puppy to the doghouse, which he placed just outside the military base wall.

And then he e-mailed his family, sending them photos of the black Lab mix and her white-and-brown spotted puppy, and said he'd decided to fly the dogs home when he returned to the states in six months.

"Our family has always had dogs or cats and other little critters," says his sister, Carey Neesley. "Peter was always bringing strays home."

But on Christmas Day, Peter, just 28, died in his sleep in his barracks (no cause of death has been released) before he could send the dogs home. His soldier friends continued to feed Mama and Boris and watch out for them.

And for Peter's 10-year-old nephew, Patrick, having Peter's dogs will help him through his grief. "Peter was like a father to Patrick," Carey says. "He won't have his Uncle Peter to call anymore, but he has his dogs to take for walks. It will be good for him."

read more

Written by Cathy Scott
Photos of Peter and his dogs compliments of the Neesley family.
Photos of Rich Crook and dogs by Molly Wald

Pet Tips:Responsible Pet Owner Rules for Kids

• 

Talk to the dog in a normal voice. No screaming or yelling at him.

• Approach the dog quietly. Walk, don't run. Make a fist and let him sniff you before you touch him.
• Pet the dog gently, on the back, from head to tail. No petting tail to head.
• Be kind to the dog. No hitting or kicking allowed. No jumping on the dog.
• No riding the dog like he's a horse. No stepping on the dog's toes.
• No dressing up the dog in doll's clothes. No pulling tails or ears.
• Play fetch. No roughhousing. No tug-of-war. If you're not sure, ask Mom or Dad.
• Remember that dogs get tired too. If the dog is sleeping, leave him alone.
• If the dog is in his crate, leave him alone. That means you play in another room or away from the crate. No sitting on top of the crate while the dog is in it. No putting food or toys in through the openings. When the dog is in his crate, pretend there is a big DO NOT DISTURB sign on the crate door.
• If the dog is doing something wrong, tell him "Angghhh" in a low, serious voice.
• If the dog does something right, sound happy and excited when you tell him, "Good boy."
• If you have permission to give commands to the dog, only give a one word command. Say "sit," not "sit down." Only say it once and only say it if you know how to make the dog do what you want.
• Try to make sure all visitors read this list or have it read to them. You are responsible for protecting your dog from people who might not know how to treat a dog.
• Some people food can make a dog really sick, so no sharing your snacks with the dog and no feeding him from the table.
• Be patient. Before you know it, the dog will be trained to accept commands from you and ready to be the friend you really want to have. In the meantime, practice giving commands to your stuffed animals.
• Love your dog but respect him too.
• Photo: Please Welcome 'Riley Joseph Woods' to the Pet Tips Column  

http://www.growingupwithpets.com./just_for_kids/en/rules.shtml 

 

Camden County Animal Shelter Spay/Neuter Clinic*

Mandatory Spay/Neuter Reintroduced in New Jersey

source American Kennel Club

The bill would require that before a dog could be released from any shelter or pound it must be sterilized, unless the owner can provide documentation of the following:

• that the dog "has been shown" within the last 12 months; or
• that the owner is a "professional licensed breeder registered with the American Kennel Club"; or
• a licensed veterinarian has determined that sterilization would be detrimental to the dog's health.

Sterilization is required for all dogs impounded, even if it is the first time the dog has been detained. 

The majority of purebred dogs never compete in AKC events and would not be eligible for this exemption. Further, the American Kennel Club does not license breeders. Therefore, this bill creates conditions that the vast majority of responsible dog owners cannot possibly meet.

The American Kennel Club opposes the concept of breeding permits, breeding bans, or the mandatory spay/neuter of purebred dogs.
read more

Local dog beats death, heads to Westminster*

source Press of Atlantic City.com


By BRIAN IANIERI Staff Writer,

Published: Saturday, January 26, 2008

The story of "Bo the show dog" is like a Jack London novel. Just replace dogsleds and the call of the wild with primping and daily tooth brushing.

Bo was a puppy living with females when his jealous 250-pound father mauled him, his teeth clenched around Bo's throat so tight that pepper spray wouldn't stop him.

Bo was 10 months old, and his father saw him as competition for the females.

Following that incident, Bo, a mastiff, shivered at his own shadow. His breeder gave him to the veterinarian, whose mastiff had just died from bone cancer.

That vet acclimated Bo to people again and built his confidence around other animals.

read more

GLOUCESTER CITY: The Wandering "Miller Avenue Puppy" is now safe & warm

I just wanted to let everyone know that the stray beagle from the Miller Avenue area has been rescued.  She is now safe and warm at Almost Home Animal Shelter in Pennsauken where she will be evaluated. 

Although this dog is very shy and was very frightened, she was not aggressive and I was able to handle her, surprisingly she actually climbed into my lap minutes after being caught. 

Nancy Welsh from Almost Home came and picked her up then called stating the dog was licking her hands...amazing considering this dog was running from humans for months. 

Many people became concerned and upset when they were told not to feed this dog but it was necessary so that I could be the sole contact and build a relationship with her.  Once we fell into a routine, she began to trust me which allowed me to get her.   With the help of many neighbors and friends. she is on the way to a good life now.  Thank you for all your kindness and concern.

If you want to help, contributions can be sent to the rescues that made this happen.  I will give you updates in the upcoming weeks.

Sincerely,

Joyce Moyer

Furrever Friends Rescue

 

FURREVER FRIENDS
PO BOX 141
WOODBURY, NJ 08096

OR

 

Almost Home Animal Shelter and Adoption Center Promoting 'Purrfect' Matches and Lasting Adoptions Through Adoption Counseling

9140C Pennsauken Highway Pennsauken, NJ 08109 Phone: (856) 663-3058 almosthomeshelter@comcast.net

Pet Tips by Allan: Teaching an Old Dog New Habits

Here's Today's Joke: Why do dogs run around in circles? Because its too hard to run in squares.

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It is always a lot easier to teach a puppy the right things to do when they are young, but it is not impossible to eliminate the bad habits of an older dog.

The first step obviously is the need to make sure the dog understands that you are the master so you can gain it's respect and then you can start the process of training the dog so that it no longer performs the unwanted actions.

It is important to address only one thing at a time and not try to change the way your dog responds to different things all at once.

The way you will get an old dog to change is to show it that there is a better outcome from the new behavior pattern than the old one.

This is easiest to do if the dog learns that it will get a reward for making any behavioral changes.

The clicker technique works well with old dogs and is not something that is restricted to the training of puppies alone.

Be prepared for any training to take longer than it would if you were working with a puppy, however there are other benefits in that an older dog will generally have a longer attention span than a puppy and if you have had the dog for many years they will be more likely to want to please you.

Be assertive but always remain positive and encourage the dog to change.

More Information:
http://AboutDogs.info/recommends/dogtraining.html



Thanks,

Allan
http://AboutDogs.info

Letters: Neighbors and Friends,

 

Please be advised that I am attempting to rescue the stray dog that has been spotted near Park and Miller Avenues.  I have arrangements made for his care after he is caught but I cannot accomplish this if people continue to feed him. 

 

Please know that he is being fed well but his feedings must be controlled since food is the motivating factor in rescuing any animal.  I understand that everyone is concerned about his safety and well being since it is so cold outside and I appreciate the "houses and blankets" but please don't feed him. 

If you have any questions or concerns, please email me at jmoyer4515@comcast.net

 

Thank you.

Joyce Moyer

Furrever Friends Rescue

Related: story about Fido

Pet Tips by Allan: Dog training is all about building relationships.

Hey Bill ,

Here's Today's Joke: How do you stop a dog smelling? Cover its nose.

***********************************************************

Dog training is all about building relationships.

Photo: Six-year-old Brianna has just taught Lacey and Erica the rest position.

Good dog training is all about building positive relationships where the dog has respect for it's owner and also where the dog realizes that the owner is the master and leader of the pack.

If the owner assumes the position of the leader of the pack and the dog knows and respects that position then it will feel more secure and be a happier pet.

Under no circumstances should the dog be fearful of it's master and that is why most current methods of dog training focus on the positive aspects of the dogs actions and reward it for the
good actions that it takes rather than punishing it for anything that it does wrong.

A well trained dog that respects it's master will always want to please, and that leads to a better-behaved dog both at home and when socializing with other dogs and people.

These positive training techniques are also great at retraining dogs that have consistently done something wrong, as they will quickly learn that the rewards for good actions are far greater than the attention they are seeking from their negative actions.

Even older dogs can be trained quite well by using these methods so a dog is certainly never too old to learn new tricks.

More Information:
http://AboutDogs.info/recommends/dogtraining.html



Thanks,  Allan
http://AboutDogs.info

 

Gloucester City: FYI on ‘Fido’

If you recall several weeks ago a letter was sent in about a little dog running around the neighborhood of Park and Klemm Avenues in Gloucester City.  The dog has a collar on it but it appears to be afraid of humans. As soon as you tried to pet it the dog runs away.

If anyone knows anything about this dog  please contact Joyce Moyer at jmoyer4515@comcast.net. 

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