On Sunday, we dropped by the Animal Compassion Network adopt event. It began on Saturday, so we had a feeling that fewer groups would be there. They still had a good group in attendance, though.
We were greatly pleased to see “Adoption Pending” signs on nearly all the cages of dogs under the Animal Compassion tent. We spotted a few signs at other rescue group’s tents too.
We are very fortunate to live in a community that really supports animal rescue. We have lots of organizations who are committed to saving animals. Just as important, we have individuals who look first to the rescue groups when thinking about adding a pet to their family. Drive through Asheville, and you will see lots of bumper stickers like “I Love My Rescue,” “Who Saved Who?” and “Rescue is My Favorite Breed.”
Congratulations to Animal Compassion Network for what looked to be a successful event. And congratulations to all the folks who found a new friend too!
Rescue Mommy and Daddy
Wednesday, May 30, 2012
Friday, May 25, 2012
New Direction
When we started this website nearly two years ago, we wanted to provide information about pet care and stories about our beloved pets. We found that a lot of pet parents out there love to talk about the furry members of their families. They want to share things that have worked for them – and things that were less successful.
As we approach the two-year anniversary of this site, we plan to make some changes. We want to offer more stories about products and training techniques. We would like to share more information about events in the community and interesting articles we have found.
If you have any suggestions, we would love to hear them. Please let us know what you would like to see on this site by adding a comment. Thanks!
Rescue Mommy and Daddy
As we approach the two-year anniversary of this site, we plan to make some changes. We want to offer more stories about products and training techniques. We would like to share more information about events in the community and interesting articles we have found.
If you have any suggestions, we would love to hear them. Please let us know what you would like to see on this site by adding a comment. Thanks!
Rescue Mommy and Daddy
Maddy's New Diet
Finally, I have found food for Maddy that helps her to lose weight! I have been searching for YEARS. Every “diet” food we tried did not work. She even gained weight on that pricey food you buy at the vet’s office. Can you believe it?
The miracle food is Blue Buffalo Weight Control. She likes it but is not in love with it. This is the key. If she was in love with her food, she would inhale it and continue to balloon as she has all these years.
I also switched Kiki to Blue Buffalo’s Healthy Aging food. Ironically, Kiki had been losing weight lately. She had been eating the same weight control food I formerly gave Maddy. Kiki likes the Healthy Aging formula and has regained some of the weight she lost.
In addition to the dry food, I give both cats 1/8 can each of Newman’s Own organic cat food each evening. They consider it a treat. It introduces more water into the diet, which is always a good thing.
I am not sure how much weight Maddy has lost, but it is noticeable. I plan to take her to the vet next month for a follow-up visit. You may recall she had some issues a couple of months ago that prompted a visit. Her glucose levels were way too high. Hopefully, her new diet has lowered her glucose levels to a normal level. I will keep you posted. Fingers crossed, she is on the way to a healthier lifestyle.
Rescue Mommy
The miracle food is Blue Buffalo Weight Control. She likes it but is not in love with it. This is the key. If she was in love with her food, she would inhale it and continue to balloon as she has all these years.
I also switched Kiki to Blue Buffalo’s Healthy Aging food. Ironically, Kiki had been losing weight lately. She had been eating the same weight control food I formerly gave Maddy. Kiki likes the Healthy Aging formula and has regained some of the weight she lost.
In addition to the dry food, I give both cats 1/8 can each of Newman’s Own organic cat food each evening. They consider it a treat. It introduces more water into the diet, which is always a good thing.
I am not sure how much weight Maddy has lost, but it is noticeable. I plan to take her to the vet next month for a follow-up visit. You may recall she had some issues a couple of months ago that prompted a visit. Her glucose levels were way too high. Hopefully, her new diet has lowered her glucose levels to a normal level. I will keep you posted. Fingers crossed, she is on the way to a healthier lifestyle.
Rescue Mommy
Monday, May 21, 2012
Tummy Troubles
I met a very sweet terrier at Three Dog Bakery last week. As often happens among us pet owners, his parents and I had been to chat about the joys of terriers. His mom mentioned that he tended to have tummy troubles and asked if my terrier had problems too. I referred her to my website, so I hope she is reading!
I adopted Gracie nearly three years ago. She had minor skin and digestive issues. (I have since read this is common with terriers.) The vet said her health was fine. He mentioned diet and/or environmental allergies might be to blame. A trip to the vet is always the first thing you should do if your pet is experiencing problems. Sometimes, a medical condition might be to blame.
After receiving her clean bill of health, I experimented with various remedies. I tried giving her Benadryl for her irritated skin. I tried various foods, including that pricey prescription diet food. I saw only minor improvements with her skin and tummy upset.
During this time, I of course searched on the Internet for answers. In my research, I found that grain and fillers in food can cause both digestive and skin issues in our pets. Some pet parents have found that a grain-free diet works wonders for their furry friends. Others swear that certain meats are best.
In Gracie’s case, she does very well with Castor & Pollux’s Organix organic dry and canned food. I admit the canned food sometimes gives her issues because some batches have been a bit greasy lately. Overall, though, her health is much improved on this diet. Her skin looks great. Her tummy is less upset.
I am not a big fan of those prescription foods you can only buy at the vet’s office. There are literally hundreds of great foods out there now. Visit your local pet supply store, and you will see! Buy a small bag, and gradually transition from the old food to the new food. That step is very important to prevent digestive upset.
Be patient. It could take some time to find the right food. It is worth the effort, though. Your pet will thank you!
Rescue Mommy
I adopted Gracie nearly three years ago. She had minor skin and digestive issues. (I have since read this is common with terriers.) The vet said her health was fine. He mentioned diet and/or environmental allergies might be to blame. A trip to the vet is always the first thing you should do if your pet is experiencing problems. Sometimes, a medical condition might be to blame.
After receiving her clean bill of health, I experimented with various remedies. I tried giving her Benadryl for her irritated skin. I tried various foods, including that pricey prescription diet food. I saw only minor improvements with her skin and tummy upset.
During this time, I of course searched on the Internet for answers. In my research, I found that grain and fillers in food can cause both digestive and skin issues in our pets. Some pet parents have found that a grain-free diet works wonders for their furry friends. Others swear that certain meats are best.
In Gracie’s case, she does very well with Castor & Pollux’s Organix organic dry and canned food. I admit the canned food sometimes gives her issues because some batches have been a bit greasy lately. Overall, though, her health is much improved on this diet. Her skin looks great. Her tummy is less upset.
I am not a big fan of those prescription foods you can only buy at the vet’s office. There are literally hundreds of great foods out there now. Visit your local pet supply store, and you will see! Buy a small bag, and gradually transition from the old food to the new food. That step is very important to prevent digestive upset.
Be patient. It could take some time to find the right food. It is worth the effort, though. Your pet will thank you!
Rescue Mommy
Friday, May 18, 2012
Website Changes Coming
We have some ideas for changing the Rescue Pets Rule website. We would love your input. Please post a comment if you have suggestions of your own.
Stay tuned!
Rescue Mommy and Daddy
Stay tuned!
Rescue Mommy and Daddy
Wednesday, May 16, 2012
Low-Cost Vaccine Clinic
Animal Compassion Network is offering low-cost vaccine clinics over the next few months. This is a great way to keep your pet healthy when money is tight. Here are the services and cost:
• Rabies vaccine ( must have prior certificate to get 3-year vaccine; otherwise, you will get the 1-year vaccine): $10
• DHLPP or DHPP: $15
• Bordetella (kennel cough): $15
• FVRCP: $15
• FeLV (recommended if cat is indoor/outdoor): $15
• Microchip (with free registration): $15
Vaccines will be administered by Dr. Margaret Moncure, DVM, of the Appalachian Animal Hospital. The clinics will be held at Animal Compassion’s store, Pet Harmony. The store is located at 803 Fairview Road in Asheville.
The clinics will be offered from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. on 5/19/12, 7/14/12, and 9/8/12. They may offer another date in November, possibly 11/12.
Animal Compassion also offers low and no cost spay/neuter vouchers. In addition, you can pick up a single application of Advantix/Advantage for $15 for dogs and $5 for cats.
For more information, contact the Network through the store at 828-274-3647.
Rescue Mommy
• Rabies vaccine ( must have prior certificate to get 3-year vaccine; otherwise, you will get the 1-year vaccine): $10
• DHLPP or DHPP: $15
• Bordetella (kennel cough): $15
• FVRCP: $15
• FeLV (recommended if cat is indoor/outdoor): $15
• Microchip (with free registration): $15
Vaccines will be administered by Dr. Margaret Moncure, DVM, of the Appalachian Animal Hospital. The clinics will be held at Animal Compassion’s store, Pet Harmony. The store is located at 803 Fairview Road in Asheville.
The clinics will be offered from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. on 5/19/12, 7/14/12, and 9/8/12. They may offer another date in November, possibly 11/12.
Animal Compassion also offers low and no cost spay/neuter vouchers. In addition, you can pick up a single application of Advantix/Advantage for $15 for dogs and $5 for cats.
For more information, contact the Network through the store at 828-274-3647.
Rescue Mommy
Monday, May 14, 2012
Dispoz-A-Scoop
Tired of the “warm handshake” you experience when cleaning up after your dog? A few years ago, I found a great product called Dispoz-A-Scoop. It is fantastic!
The scooper bag is attached to a cardboard and metal piece. You simply shovel the waste into the bag. You can push the cardboard into the ground to close the bag, but it can sometimes be tricky to close it. I usually carry the bag by the cardboard piece to the nearest trash can.
The scoopers are 99 percent biodegradable. It is true. I found some Dispoz-A-Scoops buried in a cabinet. I am not sure how long they had been there. The decomposition process had begun. The plastic bag part was in tatters.
The product can be a little hard to find. The local PetSmart used to carry them. I bought a huge box from the mail order company, Drs. Foster and Smith. You can buy a box of 48 units for $24.99 or 96 for $39.99. Here is a link to their website: http://www.drsfostersmith.com/.
I know the product is a bit more expensive than a grocery bag or biodegradable plastic bags. For me, it is worth the extra expense because I HATE the warm handshake. It is gross! If you feel the same way, give Dispoz-A-Scoop a try.
Rescue Mommy
The scooper bag is attached to a cardboard and metal piece. You simply shovel the waste into the bag. You can push the cardboard into the ground to close the bag, but it can sometimes be tricky to close it. I usually carry the bag by the cardboard piece to the nearest trash can.
The scoopers are 99 percent biodegradable. It is true. I found some Dispoz-A-Scoops buried in a cabinet. I am not sure how long they had been there. The decomposition process had begun. The plastic bag part was in tatters.
The product can be a little hard to find. The local PetSmart used to carry them. I bought a huge box from the mail order company, Drs. Foster and Smith. You can buy a box of 48 units for $24.99 or 96 for $39.99. Here is a link to their website: http://www.drsfostersmith.com/.
I know the product is a bit more expensive than a grocery bag or biodegradable plastic bags. For me, it is worth the extra expense because I HATE the warm handshake. It is gross! If you feel the same way, give Dispoz-A-Scoop a try.
Rescue Mommy
Friday, May 11, 2012
Kiawah - A Great Dog-Friendly Getaway
If you have been following this blog, you know that one of our favorite places to go is Kiawah Island, SC. We like to take Gracie with us when we travel, and Kiawah is a great place to visit.
Admittedly, the inventory of affordable pet-friendly properties is limited. You can expect to pay at least $25 per day as a non-refundable pet deposit. That fee is usually cheaper than boarding your pet, so we find it to be reasonable.
Kiawah has miles of paved paths on which you can walk or bike. Your buddy can join you on these same trails, which means you can explore the entire island together. Plan to meet a lot of dogs on Kiawah. It is a dog lover's paradise.
With 10 miles of beach, you have plenty of room to run along the shore. The beach is seldom crowded when we visit. You must keep your pet on a 6-foot long leash and clean up any "droppings."
Also, NEVER take your dog off leash. Alligators are a real danger on the island; we saw more gators on this trip than previous trips. Bobcats are there too. I read an article that coyotes have arrived as well.
You have two choices for lodging on the island: staying in a private home/villa or at the Sanctuary Hotel. The Sanctuary Hotel, a AAA five-diamond property, is not pet friendly. (It is not wallet friendly either.) We always rent a villa. It is a great deal, especially if you can find another couple to travel with you and split expenses. All of the villas have full kitchens with basic utensils so you can prepare meals at the villa to save money.
Kiawah is not the place for wild night life, unless your idea of wild life is gator sightings. You will find a lot of retirees and families with younger children. Sure, there are a few younger folks, but not a lot. A vacation on Kiawah is more about relaxing and enjoying quiet than partying.
If you do long for some fun, Charleston is a 30- to 45-minute drive, depending upon traffic. You will find lots of great restaurants and clubs there.
To find rental properties on Kiawah, we have used these websites:
vrbo.com
homeaway.com
resortquest.com
kiawahresort.com
sweetgrassvacationrentals.com
beachwalker.com
A word of advice: if you do not rent directly through the Kiawah Resort (kiawahresort.com), you may not be able to access the resort's facilities, including the pools. The person or company from whom you rent the villa may or may not provide you with an amenities card; ask. Purchasing the card separately can be expensive.
Also, if you rent through the Resort, you are not guaranteed the specific villa you request.
Rest and relaxation awaits you and your furry friend on Kiawah Island. Maybe we will see you there sometime!
Rescue Mommy
Admittedly, the inventory of affordable pet-friendly properties is limited. You can expect to pay at least $25 per day as a non-refundable pet deposit. That fee is usually cheaper than boarding your pet, so we find it to be reasonable.
Kiawah has miles of paved paths on which you can walk or bike. Your buddy can join you on these same trails, which means you can explore the entire island together. Plan to meet a lot of dogs on Kiawah. It is a dog lover's paradise.
With 10 miles of beach, you have plenty of room to run along the shore. The beach is seldom crowded when we visit. You must keep your pet on a 6-foot long leash and clean up any "droppings."
Also, NEVER take your dog off leash. Alligators are a real danger on the island; we saw more gators on this trip than previous trips. Bobcats are there too. I read an article that coyotes have arrived as well.
You have two choices for lodging on the island: staying in a private home/villa or at the Sanctuary Hotel. The Sanctuary Hotel, a AAA five-diamond property, is not pet friendly. (It is not wallet friendly either.) We always rent a villa. It is a great deal, especially if you can find another couple to travel with you and split expenses. All of the villas have full kitchens with basic utensils so you can prepare meals at the villa to save money.
Kiawah is not the place for wild night life, unless your idea of wild life is gator sightings. You will find a lot of retirees and families with younger children. Sure, there are a few younger folks, but not a lot. A vacation on Kiawah is more about relaxing and enjoying quiet than partying.
If you do long for some fun, Charleston is a 30- to 45-minute drive, depending upon traffic. You will find lots of great restaurants and clubs there.
To find rental properties on Kiawah, we have used these websites:
vrbo.com
homeaway.com
resortquest.com
kiawahresort.com
sweetgrassvacationrentals.com
beachwalker.com
A word of advice: if you do not rent directly through the Kiawah Resort (kiawahresort.com), you may not be able to access the resort's facilities, including the pools. The person or company from whom you rent the villa may or may not provide you with an amenities card; ask. Purchasing the card separately can be expensive.
Also, if you rent through the Resort, you are not guaranteed the specific villa you request.
Rest and relaxation awaits you and your furry friend on Kiawah Island. Maybe we will see you there sometime!
Rescue Mommy
Wednesday, May 9, 2012
Bark for Life
The American Cancer Society's Bark for Life walk occurs this Saturday, May 12, from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m. The event will be held at the Highland Brewery at 12 Old Charlotte Highway in Asheville.
Bark for Life aims to raise awareness and funds for the Society's fight against cancer. You can bring your furry friend and help raise money for the cause.
For more information about the event or to make a donation, check out this link:
http://main.acsevents.org/site/TR/RelayForLife/BFLFY11SA?sid=1003&type=fr_informational&pg=informational&fr_id=41701
Rescue Mommy
Bark for Life aims to raise awareness and funds for the Society's fight against cancer. You can bring your furry friend and help raise money for the cause.
For more information about the event or to make a donation, check out this link:
http://main.acsevents.org/site/TR/RelayForLife/BFLFY11SA?sid=1003&type=fr_informational&pg=informational&fr_id=41701
Rescue Mommy
Monday, May 7, 2012
Traveling with Gracie
This year's family vacation in Kiawah went very well. Gracie travelled better than ever. Of course, that would be "better" on her terms. She still freaked out at the first rest area stop. She was particularly upset when we stopped at a rest area that was too close to the busy highway.
She stopped trembling after a few minutes, though, and even raised her head and boldly looked around as we were travelling. These things may not seem monumental to you. If you are a follower of this blog, you realize how significant these seemingly tiny events are.
Did I find a new miracle pill for her? No, this trip was unmedicated, either with traditional or homeopathic medicine. For the last several months, I have focused more on desensitizing Gracie by taking her on car rides around the neighborhood or to the Biltmore Estate.
If you have a fearful pooch, be patient. Gracie has been a member of our family for almost three years. It has taken that long to get to this point. We calculate that, by the time she is 15, she should love riding in the car!
Rescue Mommy
She stopped trembling after a few minutes, though, and even raised her head and boldly looked around as we were travelling. These things may not seem monumental to you. If you are a follower of this blog, you realize how significant these seemingly tiny events are.
Did I find a new miracle pill for her? No, this trip was unmedicated, either with traditional or homeopathic medicine. For the last several months, I have focused more on desensitizing Gracie by taking her on car rides around the neighborhood or to the Biltmore Estate.
If you have a fearful pooch, be patient. Gracie has been a member of our family for almost three years. It has taken that long to get to this point. We calculate that, by the time she is 15, she should love riding in the car!
Rescue Mommy
Friday, May 4, 2012
Playing Tennis with Angel
Angel, the next door neighbor’s dog, has relentless puppy energy that is too much for Gracie. She bites her ears. She tugs on her whiskers, particularly her eyebrows. And, now that she is bigger than Gracie, she tackles her.
I have tried many different tactics and tricks to prevent Angel from pouncing on Gracie during every walkie. It is so bad that Gracie sometimes refuses to take our usual path. She is simply not in the mood for Angel’s hyperactivity.
Rescue Daddy suggested that I give Angel a toy as a distraction. I resisted the idea at first. I did not want Angel to earn a reward for her bad behavior. However, the bullying is too much. I relented and bought puppy-approved tennis balls.
The first day I offered the tennis ball, Angel carried it the entire time she was with Gracie. It was wonderful. She chewed on the ball instead of Gracie. Since then, the tennis ball has lost some of its allure. She carries it for awhile but eventually drops it and tries to play with Gracie.
If you have any tips, I would love to hear them. It could be another year or two before Angel loses some of her puppy craziness – or it could be even longer. After all, Perdy, my late Dalmatian, did not lose her puppy energy until she was 10 years old; even then, she simply calmed to normal dog crazy. Suggestions are welcome!
Rescue Mommy
I have tried many different tactics and tricks to prevent Angel from pouncing on Gracie during every walkie. It is so bad that Gracie sometimes refuses to take our usual path. She is simply not in the mood for Angel’s hyperactivity.
Rescue Daddy suggested that I give Angel a toy as a distraction. I resisted the idea at first. I did not want Angel to earn a reward for her bad behavior. However, the bullying is too much. I relented and bought puppy-approved tennis balls.
The first day I offered the tennis ball, Angel carried it the entire time she was with Gracie. It was wonderful. She chewed on the ball instead of Gracie. Since then, the tennis ball has lost some of its allure. She carries it for awhile but eventually drops it and tries to play with Gracie.
If you have any tips, I would love to hear them. It could be another year or two before Angel loses some of her puppy craziness – or it could be even longer. After all, Perdy, my late Dalmatian, did not lose her puppy energy until she was 10 years old; even then, she simply calmed to normal dog crazy. Suggestions are welcome!
Rescue Mommy
Wednesday, May 2, 2012
Talking Tom
You may already know about this app. I just heard about it last week. It is called “Talking Tom,” and, best of all, it is free in the Apple App Store.
The app is rather entertaining. Tom is a gray cat who will purr if you pet him, hiss if you smack him, and do other cute things. A dog will pass gas and annoy the cat. At certain points, your iPad will record what you say and repeat it in a voice that sounds as if you have just inhaled helium.
The person who told me about the app said his 18-month old daughter will play with Tom for hours. So, if you need a babysitter, maybe Talkin Tom could assist.
Rescue Mommy
The app is rather entertaining. Tom is a gray cat who will purr if you pet him, hiss if you smack him, and do other cute things. A dog will pass gas and annoy the cat. At certain points, your iPad will record what you say and repeat it in a voice that sounds as if you have just inhaled helium.
The person who told me about the app said his 18-month old daughter will play with Tom for hours. So, if you need a babysitter, maybe Talkin Tom could assist.
Rescue Mommy
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