Just a quick reminder, keep a close eye on your pets this evening. Halloween may be a sweet treat for us humans, but it can spell disaster for our beloved pets.
We know chocolate is toxic. Don’t forget that raisins, grapes, and artificial sweeteners (such as the kind in sugar-free candy) are also dangerous.
If you are burning spooky candles, watch out for swishing cat tails and wax spills. You don’t want to chase a flaming cat through your house!
My last warning involves visitors. We know to keep our little furry friends in a separate room if visitors are too much. My warning is about the treat bags.
When my nephews and niece visited last year, I took lots of pictures. I was surprised at two things when I uploaded the pictures to the computer. First, those kids are growing up too fast! Second, in one of the pictures, the kids were posing – and Gracie had her head stuffed down one of their treat bags, looking for a goodie. I did not notice it when they were here. Fortunately, she did not grab anything, but she easily could have.
Here’s to a safe Halloween!
Rescue Mommy
Monday, October 31, 2011
Friday, October 28, 2011
Prestige Subaru Howl'Oween Adoptathon
The local Subaru dealership sponsors two monster adoption fairs each year. These events are huge.
The latest event is happening this weekend – Saturday and Sunday, October 29 and 30, from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at 803 Fairview Street in Asheville. The event is across the street from Animal Compassion Network’s store, in the lower parking lot of Province 620, off of Hendersonville Road.
Rescue groups from all over the area, including Animal Compassion and Brother Wolf, will be at the event with animals available for adoption. If your pet needs vaccinations, Appalachian Animal Hospital will offer low-cost shots and micro-chipping.
Dress for Halloween, and you and/or your buddy might win one of the many costume contests they are having. Winners will be entered into a raffle for prizes such as a year’s worth of free pet food.
The event is always a lot of fun for you and your buddy. If you would like more information, visit Animal Compassion Network’s website at http://www.animalcompassionnetwork.org/or call 828-274-3647.
Rescue Mommy
The latest event is happening this weekend – Saturday and Sunday, October 29 and 30, from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at 803 Fairview Street in Asheville. The event is across the street from Animal Compassion Network’s store, in the lower parking lot of Province 620, off of Hendersonville Road.
Rescue groups from all over the area, including Animal Compassion and Brother Wolf, will be at the event with animals available for adoption. If your pet needs vaccinations, Appalachian Animal Hospital will offer low-cost shots and micro-chipping.
Dress for Halloween, and you and/or your buddy might win one of the many costume contests they are having. Winners will be entered into a raffle for prizes such as a year’s worth of free pet food.
The event is always a lot of fun for you and your buddy. If you would like more information, visit Animal Compassion Network’s website at http://www.animalcompassionnetwork.org/or call 828-274-3647.
Rescue Mommy
Wednesday, October 26, 2011
People Food Hazards
Halloween is Monday, and the holidays are just around the corner. We all know that chocolate is highly toxic to pets. Did you know that these foods are toxic too?
If your pet eats any of these or other toxic items, call your vet immediately. You can also call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at 888-426-4435. They charge a consulting fee for the call, though.
Stay calm. Be sure to note what and how much your pet has consumed. If you are not sure what it is, grab whatever is left and take it with you when you head to the vet’s office.
Rescue Mommy
- Coffee
- Caffeine
- Alcohol
- Avocado
- Macadamia Nuts
- Grapes and Raisins
- Yeast Dough
- Raw/Undercooked Meat, Eggs, and Bones
- Xylitol (artificial sweetener)
- Onions, Garlic, Chives
- Milk
- Salt
If your pet eats any of these or other toxic items, call your vet immediately. You can also call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at 888-426-4435. They charge a consulting fee for the call, though.
Stay calm. Be sure to note what and how much your pet has consumed. If you are not sure what it is, grab whatever is left and take it with you when you head to the vet’s office.
Rescue Mommy
Monday, October 24, 2011
Dominance Theory
In the September/October 2011 edition of Bark magazine, Patricia McConnell wrote an interesting article about dominance training entitled Action/Re-Action: The Temptation of the Dominance Fallacy. The practice of establishing dominance over your dog used to be viewed as good training technique. In recent years, though, more animal behaviorists are turning their backs on the approach, favoring positive reinforcement instead.
I have been a dog owner, guardian, companion – whatever term you want to use – for over 20 years. When Perdy came into my life, achieving dominance was something you were supposed to do. Positive reinforcement really was not something I recall as a topic of discussion.
Don’t worry. I am not about to tell you that I beat her into submission because I followed the dominance training techniques. Anyone who has ever had a Dalmatian knows they are happy-go-lucky, albeit stubborn dogs. Both Dino and she would do just about anything for affection. Dino would give me his best used car salesperson look as if to say, “What’s it gonna take to close the deal?” Then, he would go through his whole repertoire of tricks (all 3 of them) to get the treat.
The same thing goes with Gracie. She wants belly rubs and treats. Since she is an anxious, fearful dog, I know that she would shut down with harsh discipline. It has taken two years to gain her trust. Why would I do anything to jeopardize that?
I admit that, at first, I thought the whole backlash against dominance theory meant we were supposed to let dogs run free, do whatever it is they want to do, and never say “no” to the dog. As you have probably gathered from reading my blog, I believe in structure and boundaries.
You still have rules with positive reinforcement. You define them, teach them to the dog, and reward the dog when he/she succeeds, not roll the dog onto its back and say, “Bad dog!! I am the Queen; do my bidding!!” (Well, Kiki still favors that method, but that’s another story.)
The article is definitely worth a read. It is time we all open our minds to a better approach to training. Here is a link to the article, if you are interested: http://www.thebark.com/content/down-dominance
Rescue Mommy
I have been a dog owner, guardian, companion – whatever term you want to use – for over 20 years. When Perdy came into my life, achieving dominance was something you were supposed to do. Positive reinforcement really was not something I recall as a topic of discussion.
Don’t worry. I am not about to tell you that I beat her into submission because I followed the dominance training techniques. Anyone who has ever had a Dalmatian knows they are happy-go-lucky, albeit stubborn dogs. Both Dino and she would do just about anything for affection. Dino would give me his best used car salesperson look as if to say, “What’s it gonna take to close the deal?” Then, he would go through his whole repertoire of tricks (all 3 of them) to get the treat.
The same thing goes with Gracie. She wants belly rubs and treats. Since she is an anxious, fearful dog, I know that she would shut down with harsh discipline. It has taken two years to gain her trust. Why would I do anything to jeopardize that?
I admit that, at first, I thought the whole backlash against dominance theory meant we were supposed to let dogs run free, do whatever it is they want to do, and never say “no” to the dog. As you have probably gathered from reading my blog, I believe in structure and boundaries.
You still have rules with positive reinforcement. You define them, teach them to the dog, and reward the dog when he/she succeeds, not roll the dog onto its back and say, “Bad dog!! I am the Queen; do my bidding!!” (Well, Kiki still favors that method, but that’s another story.)
The article is definitely worth a read. It is time we all open our minds to a better approach to training. Here is a link to the article, if you are interested: http://www.thebark.com/content/down-dominance
Rescue Mommy
Friday, October 21, 2011
Dog-O-Ween at Brother Wolf
On Sunday, October 23, Brother Wolf Animal Rescue is having a Halloween party at their adoption center at 31 Glendale Avenue in Asheville. The event is from 4:00 to 9:00 p.m.
They will have treats, games, and a haunted house. Come dressed in your Halloween costume. Maybe you will win the contest.
For more information, visit Brother Wolf’s site at http://www.bwar.org/.
Rescue Mommy and Daddy
They will have treats, games, and a haunted house. Come dressed in your Halloween costume. Maybe you will win the contest.
For more information, visit Brother Wolf’s site at http://www.bwar.org/.
Rescue Mommy and Daddy
Wednesday, October 19, 2011
Free Excessive Barking Class
Is your little buddy a bit “talkative?” If your buddy has a lot to say, you might want to check out a class offered by the Asheville Humane Society (AHS).
On Saturday, October 22, AHS is offering a class titled “Woof! Understanding and Preventing Excessive Barking.” The class is from 9:00 to 10:00 a.m. at their campus at 14 Forever Friend Lane. The class is free.
For more information, call 828-707-0644 or visit http://www.petbehavioraid.org/.
Rescue Mommy
On Saturday, October 22, AHS is offering a class titled “Woof! Understanding and Preventing Excessive Barking.” The class is from 9:00 to 10:00 a.m. at their campus at 14 Forever Friend Lane. The class is free.
For more information, call 828-707-0644 or visit http://www.petbehavioraid.org/.
Rescue Mommy
Monday, October 17, 2011
An Unwelcome Stowaway
A few weeks ago, we went to Kiawah Island. Unfortunately, Gracie brought home an unwelcome stowaway: fleas.
This is the first time she has had fleas since she came to live with us. I just thought she had itchy skin, which she has during certain times of the year. While combing her, I found the little menace in her fur.
I had to wait a few days before I could apply a dose of flea medicine. In the interim, all I could do was bathe and comb her every night. As soon as I could apply the medicine, I did. I am happy to report that the fleas seem to be dying. She is scratching less each day.
You may wonder why I did not apply the medicine right away. Read the box carefully before applying the medicine. Most topical treatments can only be applied once every thirty days. Take the warning seriously.
When I was a new pet owner, I did not understand the seriousness of flea medicine. I applied a topical treatment to my Dalmatian Perdy. It was not working, so I decided to give her a bath in flea shampoo.
Well, that was just stupid. She stopped eating. I had overdosed her on flea meds! The vet told me to give her a very thorough bath to remove residue from the flea shampoo. I gave her boiled hamburger (gross) and rice because she would eat that. In a few days, she got better. Sadly, some pets are not so lucky.
Now, I am super diligent with flea medicines. While I was not crazy about waiting a few days, I would rather have an itchy dog than a dead one.
Rescue Mommy
This is the first time she has had fleas since she came to live with us. I just thought she had itchy skin, which she has during certain times of the year. While combing her, I found the little menace in her fur.
I had to wait a few days before I could apply a dose of flea medicine. In the interim, all I could do was bathe and comb her every night. As soon as I could apply the medicine, I did. I am happy to report that the fleas seem to be dying. She is scratching less each day.
You may wonder why I did not apply the medicine right away. Read the box carefully before applying the medicine. Most topical treatments can only be applied once every thirty days. Take the warning seriously.
When I was a new pet owner, I did not understand the seriousness of flea medicine. I applied a topical treatment to my Dalmatian Perdy. It was not working, so I decided to give her a bath in flea shampoo.
Well, that was just stupid. She stopped eating. I had overdosed her on flea meds! The vet told me to give her a very thorough bath to remove residue from the flea shampoo. I gave her boiled hamburger (gross) and rice because she would eat that. In a few days, she got better. Sadly, some pets are not so lucky.
Now, I am super diligent with flea medicines. While I was not crazy about waiting a few days, I would rather have an itchy dog than a dead one.
Rescue Mommy
Friday, October 14, 2011
Hope for Horses
While we tend to promote rescue groups that help dogs and cats, we do support groups who help all animals. “Hope for Horses” rescues horses from terrible situations, rehabilitates them, and finds loving homes for them. Here’s a link to their website: http://www.hopeforhorses.org/.
This Sunday, October 16, they will have a 5K run, 1-mile fun walk, and dog parade in downtown Asheville. The race starts at 35 Woodfin Street (across from the YMCA) at 2:00 p.m. Registration starts at 12:30 p.m.
If you want to enjoy a nice fall day and help a rescue group at the same time, come on out for the race.
Rescue Mommy
This Sunday, October 16, they will have a 5K run, 1-mile fun walk, and dog parade in downtown Asheville. The race starts at 35 Woodfin Street (across from the YMCA) at 2:00 p.m. Registration starts at 12:30 p.m.
If you want to enjoy a nice fall day and help a rescue group at the same time, come on out for the race.
Rescue Mommy
Wednesday, October 12, 2011
Greyhound Friends of NC
This group is dedicated to finding homes for retired racing dogs. Every third Saturday each month, they hold a “meet and greet” at PetSmart in Arden. The event is from noon to 2:30 p.m.
I have seen this group at adoption events. The dogs are always so sweet. I spoke with one of the “rescue moms” who informed me that they were very laid back dogs. Some greyhounds can live with cats. Others cannot, so keep that in mind.
If you adopt a greyhound from Greyhound Friends of NC, your buddy will be spayed/neutered, have his/her teeth cleaned, vaccinated, heartworm tested, dewormed, and groomed. How cool is that?
If you would like to learn more about the group, call 828-692-4986 or 828-230-2917. You can also contact them via e-mail (sherryc@morrisbb.net) or visit their website at http://www.greyhoundfriends.com/.
Rescue Mommy
I have seen this group at adoption events. The dogs are always so sweet. I spoke with one of the “rescue moms” who informed me that they were very laid back dogs. Some greyhounds can live with cats. Others cannot, so keep that in mind.
If you adopt a greyhound from Greyhound Friends of NC, your buddy will be spayed/neutered, have his/her teeth cleaned, vaccinated, heartworm tested, dewormed, and groomed. How cool is that?
If you would like to learn more about the group, call 828-692-4986 or 828-230-2917. You can also contact them via e-mail (sherryc@morrisbb.net) or visit their website at http://www.greyhoundfriends.com/.
Rescue Mommy
Monday, October 10, 2011
Clumber Spaniel Rescue
This week, I wanted to devote some time to a couple of breed-specific rescue groups in this area.
According to the group’s website, the “Clumbers in Need” rescue group seeks to rescue Clumber Spaniels from puppy mills and backyard breeders. They do not accept owner surrenders or pull Clumbers from rescue groups. Their mission is very narrow in focus.
Never heard of the breed? I confess I had not. I visited the AKC website and learned that the Clumber was one of the original nine breeds that registered by the AKC. According to the AKC, the Clumber is a playful, loving dog who would be good for a family. Here is a link to the AKC site: http://www.akc.org/breeds/clumber_spaniel/
It is horrifying to think anyone would abuse a Clumber or any animal, for that matter. If you would like to learn more about Clumbers in Need, here is a link to their website: http://www.clumbersinneed.com/
This Saturday, October 15, “Clumbers in Need” will be at Pet Supermarket on Tunnel Road in Asheville from noon until 4:00 p.m. They do have a few Clumber Spaniels available for adoption. I am sure they would be happy to answer any questions you have about Clumbers too.
Rescue Mommy
According to the group’s website, the “Clumbers in Need” rescue group seeks to rescue Clumber Spaniels from puppy mills and backyard breeders. They do not accept owner surrenders or pull Clumbers from rescue groups. Their mission is very narrow in focus.
Never heard of the breed? I confess I had not. I visited the AKC website and learned that the Clumber was one of the original nine breeds that registered by the AKC. According to the AKC, the Clumber is a playful, loving dog who would be good for a family. Here is a link to the AKC site: http://www.akc.org/breeds/clumber_spaniel/
It is horrifying to think anyone would abuse a Clumber or any animal, for that matter. If you would like to learn more about Clumbers in Need, here is a link to their website: http://www.clumbersinneed.com/
This Saturday, October 15, “Clumbers in Need” will be at Pet Supermarket on Tunnel Road in Asheville from noon until 4:00 p.m. They do have a few Clumber Spaniels available for adoption. I am sure they would be happy to answer any questions you have about Clumbers too.
Rescue Mommy
Friday, October 7, 2011
World Rabies Vaccination Day
Saturday, October 8 is World Rabies Day. Brother Wolf and Pfizer are holding a rabies vaccination clinic from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. that day at the Biltmore Veterinary Clinic at 932 Hendersonville Road. Vaccines will be free to the first 250 dogs and cats whose human companions bring a pet food or supply donation for Brother Wolf.
If you need other vaccines or mirco-chipping, those services will be offered at a reduced cost too. For more information, call 828-808-9435.
Rescue Mommy and Daddy
If you need other vaccines or mirco-chipping, those services will be offered at a reduced cost too. For more information, call 828-808-9435.
Rescue Mommy and Daddy
Wednesday, October 5, 2011
Brother Wolf Needs Your Help
Brother Wolf is in the final stretch of the ASPCA Challenge. They could use your help both through adoptions and fundraising. According to a recent e-mail from them, their funds are a bit tight around this time of year. If you can spare a few dollars, they could use them.
Anyone who is looking for a new friend should definitely check out Brother Wolf’s website. I have a sampling of friends looking for homes. You will find more on the organization’s website.
Good luck, Brother Wolf!
Rescue Mommy and Daddy
Anyone who is looking for a new friend should definitely check out Brother Wolf’s website. I have a sampling of friends looking for homes. You will find more on the organization’s website.
Good luck, Brother Wolf!
Rescue Mommy and Daddy
Monday, October 3, 2011
White Noise App
We live in the country. Consequently, Gracie is not accustomed to a lot of noise. When we travel, she has a problem with all the noise around the condo. She barks and growls at people entering/exiting their condos or driving through the parking lot. She hushes when asked and has never been a nuisance. However, it can be rather startling to hear her growling at 2:00 a.m.
The first night we were in Kiawah, our next door neighbor arrived late and spent an inordinate amount of time banging up and down the stairs, hauling in stuff. This set Gracie on edge the whole night. We did not get a lot of sleep that night.
The next day, I had an idea. I downloaded a free, Android app called White Noise. One of the sounds was crickets, just like home.
When we went to bed that night, I set the app to play for 3.5 hours. Gracie fell asleep about 10 minutes after the app started. It worked like a charm.
No one wants to be a nuisance and get ejected from a vacation destination just because the dog is doing his/her job. If you are faced with a similar situation, give the app a try. Maybe I will try it in the car. Who knows? This might be the car travel solution we have wanted.
Rescue Mommy
The first night we were in Kiawah, our next door neighbor arrived late and spent an inordinate amount of time banging up and down the stairs, hauling in stuff. This set Gracie on edge the whole night. We did not get a lot of sleep that night.
The next day, I had an idea. I downloaded a free, Android app called White Noise. One of the sounds was crickets, just like home.
When we went to bed that night, I set the app to play for 3.5 hours. Gracie fell asleep about 10 minutes after the app started. It worked like a charm.
No one wants to be a nuisance and get ejected from a vacation destination just because the dog is doing his/her job. If you are faced with a similar situation, give the app a try. Maybe I will try it in the car. Who knows? This might be the car travel solution we have wanted.
Rescue Mommy
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