Parting Words

During the last three years, you have listened to our opinions about a few things.  We firmly believe that the best pets are “rescue” pets.  All across the country, millions of animals of all breeds, sizes, and ages are waiting for homes.  Many of them will be euthanized because no one wanted them.  If you are considering a pet, we encourage you to look at your local animal shelter or rescue group. 

We know that some people are adamant about getting certain breeds and really do not like the whole shelter experience.  We can understand that.  Rescue pets might not be for everyone.  PLEASE adopt from a responsible breeder if you do this.  Do not support a pet store, where most of the animals come from puppy mills. 

Visit www.akc.org for a list of breeders for the particular breed you want.  Be sure to thoroughly research the breeder.  Just because they have the AKC designation, it does not necessarily mean they are responsible.  Do your homework.  You are starting a lifelong relationship.

And, for those of you who have pets, please be kind to them.  You are their world.  Your actions define how they see other people and how they will react to similar situations in the future.  Please use positive training methods.  Please provide them with the best food and vet care you can afford; it is an investment that will help them later in life.

If times get tough, we encourage you to seek help from your local rescue group.   Lots of people have turned to them for support.  There is no shame in doing it.  In fact, they would prefer you keep your pet and want to do whatever they can to help you. 

We appreciated the opportunity to talk to you these last three years.  Who knows?  We might pick up again in the future.  For now, we are going to sign off by asking you to hug your pet for us.

Best wishes and furry kisses,

Rescue Mommy, Rescue Daddy, Kiki, and Gracie

Heatstroke

Friday, June 21 was the official first day of summer.  I have already seen two dogs left in hot cars while their pet parents dashed into a store.  It only takes minutes for the temperature to become dangerously hot in a car, even if you are parked in the shade.

Here’s a link to a good article about heatstroke:

http://www.weather.com/outlook/homeandgarden/pets/articles/d139

I intend to print it and keep copies in my car.  Yeah, I will be that obnoxious person who lives it on someone’s car window.   Let’s all be obnoxious.  Maybe we can save some lives.

Rescue Mommy

Time to Call It a Night

You may have noticed that we did not have fresh posts last week.  Maintaining the website has become a bit of a chore.  We have mulled over whether or not we wanted to continue.  We decided to skip a week and see how things felt.

While we enjoy talking to you and telling you about the training progress, interesting happenings, and other things, it has been hard to find fresh ideas every week.  This is particularly true in the Rescue Pets blog that is “written” by Kiki and Gracie. 

We have decided to stop maintaining the website.  This will be our last week online.  We will keep the domain name, because we may decide to restart it in the future.  Right now, we would like to spend more time working with Gracie and doing other things to help our favorite rescue group, Brother Wolf Animal Rescue.

Please enjoy the last posts in the Rescue Parents Speak blog.

Rescue Mommy and Daddy

Angel May Be the Problem

As you know, Gracie has refused to her usual walkie route for several weeks now.  It takes her by the electric fence that has zapped her two times as well as the neighbors’ overexcited dog who outweighs her by at least 40 pounds. 

I received a call one evening last week from the neighbor.  She was worried because Angel had not returned home.  Gracie must have overheard the conversation and decided Angel was gone for good.  The next morning, she trotted down the road, ready to walk the old route.  We passed the neighbors’ house.  No Angel.  Gracie was confident and happy as she explored her old haunt.

In due course, we headed back toward home.  As we rounded a curve, there stood Angel.  Gracie was devastated.   She frantically looked to me for support.  Angel pounced, so happy to see us.  Fortunately, she was distracted in a few moments by a cat and raced away to give chase.

Since that day, Gracie has refused to take the same route.  I am beginning to think her refusal has everything to do with Angel and very little to do with that electric fence. 

Any ideas about how to tackle this problem?

Rescue Mommy

Dental Care is Important but Often Neglected

Do you brush your dog’s teeth?  Be honest.  We all know we should do it.  Bad dental health leads to a host of serious health complications, just as it does for us humans.  Most of us do not brush our dog’s teeth, though.

Last week, I took Gracie to vet for a dental cleaning.  At her annual checkup last fall, the vet recommended that her teeth be cleaned.  Well, it is expensive, and I admit I put it off.  While we were on vacation, I noticed that dry kibble seemed to be a problem for her.  She rolled it around her mouth as if she had a sore tooth.  I decided I had waited long enough and made the appointment.

She did indeed have a problem with her right fang tooth.  It had decay underneath the tooth that caused some bone loss.  The vet worked her magic, though, and corrected the situation.  Fortunately, the tooth was still viable so no extraction was needed.

Seeing Gracie after the procedure broke my heart.  She whined for the rest of the day, subsiding later in the evening into deep, pitiful moans.  She was disoriented from the pain medication.  She clung to me like Velcro, desperately needing reassurance.  She could not jump.  My usual firecracker was in misery.

Fortunately, she was more like her usual self later the next day.  For the last week, she has enjoyed a wet dog food only diet.  It will be fun switching her back to the mixture of wet and dry food she usually has.

I am now resolved to brush her teeth.  It will be an interesting challenge but one that is necessary.  After seeing the results of NOT doing it, I cannot bear to put Gracie through trauma again. 

I will keep you posted as I attempt to implement a dental care regimen.  It is something we all know that we need to do for our dogs.  If we are honest, most of us just do not do it.  I must suck it up, though, for the greater good.  Gracie cannot brush her teeth – and Kiki definitely will not assist!

Stay tuned.   The next training adventure begins.

Rescue Mommy

Have Lunch Plans Tomorrow?

Doc Chey’s restaurant will host a special fundraiser tomorrow to Brother Wolf Animal Rescue.  A portion of their proceeds will be donated to the group.  If you are in downtown Asheville and looking for a great place to eat, consider visiting Doc Chey’s.

For more information, visit Brother Wolf’s website at www.bwar.org.  Happy spring roll!

Rescue Mommy

BWAR Community Yard Sale Tomorrow

Tomorrow, Brother Wolf Animal Rescue will hold a community yard sale at their shelter.  You can buy a table and sell items you no longer want.  Or maybe you can pick up a treasure for yourself.

For more details, check out the “Events” page on www.rescuepetsrule.com or visit Brother Wolf’s website at www.bwar.org. 

Rescue Mommy

"Shelter Me" Documentary

While on vacation, we happened upon a fantastic documentary on PBS.  Titled “Shelter Me,” the documentary showed various stories about rescued pets. 

We learned about program at a women’s prison that gives the incarcerated ladies an opportunity to train dogs.  The dogs are eventually used as assistance animals for people with disabilities.  One of the ladies said the program rehabilitated her as well.

For me, the most moving story was that of veterans whose dogs helped them with their struggles with post-traumatic stress syndrome (PTSD).  The dogs saved their lives.

If you have an opportunity to see the documentary, I highly recommend it.  It is available for sale on Amazon.com.  Check your local PBS station; maybe they will air it sometime soon.

Rescue Mommy

Time Out

Well, allowing Gracie off leash during our play sessions made her a little too confident.  Over the weekend, she decided this new freedom gave her license to bolt and explore other areas.  Fortunately, she stopped when my voice reached a decibel level only heard by dogs.

She crouched low and feigned the pose of a “bad doggie.”  However, when I picked her up and carried her back to the house, she held her head high.  Her tail wagged mischievously, and her nose twitched as she inhaled all the smells from her higher vantage point.  She had no remorse.

The same thing happened the last time she was allowed off leash.  She eventually reaches a point where she decides to push the boundaries.  So, now we have to reestablish those boundaries.  She will be on leash for a while.  It will be the canine equivalent of “time out.”

Rescue Mommy

It's a Scary World Out There

Gracie still refuses to take a walkie along her former route.  She prefers to stay within the boundaries of our property.

A few nights ago, she was intrigued by furiously barking dogs in our neighborhood.  She ventured outside the property line but retreated in fear not long afterwards.  Fortunately, I had a toy in my pocket.  As soon as we returned to our yard, I whipped out the toy and engaged her in a game of fetch.   (“Fetch” is a loose term.  She prefers to taunt me with the toy rather than politely relinquish it.)

I realize some trainers may say I reinforced the “happy place” quality of our yard.  My goal was to prevent her from “shutting down.”  When Gracie becomes truly afraid, she will not listen to anyone.  She retreats into her own little world, shaking and panting.  I could tell from her posture that we were moments away from that happening.  I decided it would be better to redirect her attention to the toy and use exercise to burn off the anxiety. 

It worked.  Her attention was fixed on the toy.  She forgot about her romp outside the property line and had a wonderful time chasing after the toy.

Fearful dogs are a challenge.  I encourage you to read books about positive training methods so you can help your dog.  As I said, my method may not have been 100 percent approved by a trainer.  It worked for my dog – and that’s what you must do.  Find something that works for your dog.  Just make sure it is positive training – no choke collars, no painful corrections. 

Good luck!

Rescue Mommy

Off the Leash

Since Gracie prefers to stay on our property now, I have been allowing her to spend more time off leash.  She stays by my side and returns quickly if she ventures a little too far away.

In the evenings, we have play sessions in the front yard.  Rescue Daddy and I toss toys.  Gracie grabs them, shaking them violently before getting just within arm’s reach.  Then, she dashes to the left or right, daring us to chase her for the toy.  We play this little game until she collapses on the grass. 

All dogs need exercise.  We cannot let Gracie’s little phobia prevent her from getting the workout she needs.  If you are having a similar issue getting your dog to “work out,” try to be creative.  (Another trick we use is tossing a toy down the hallway when the weather is bad.)  There is always a way to get exercise. 

Rescue Mommy

Service Dogs for Veterans

Memorial Day is a day off work for most people.  Let us not forget it is an actual holiday meant to honor the men and women who died in service to this country.

Regardless of your opinions about the conflicts of the last ten years, there is no denying that men and women have fought hard on behalf of this country.  Some return home in body bags.  Others return with serious physical and mental injuries that will haunt them for the rest of their lives.

In recent months, a few news articles have appeared stating a shocking fact.  The Department of Veteran’s Affairs does not provide assistance animals for the treatment of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).  They will only provide assistance animals for veterans who are physically disabled.  While the VA planned to study the impact assistance animals made on veterans with PTSD, the study has been halted. 

Furthermore, the ADA rules were recently tightened so that emotional support animals do not qualify as service animals.  An establishment could legally refuse to allow an assistance animal on the premises unless it helped someone with a physical disability. 

Anecdotal evidence alone shows that veterans suffering from PTSD benefit tremendously from their dogs.  Several organizations are trying to provide veterans with the dogs they need since the government is not going to help.  I have links at the end of this post that provide you with more information about the topic as well as a couple of organizations that assist.

This is a tragedy.  I urge you to contact your Congress person and tell him or her that the VA study should resume as quickly as possible.  They should also reconsider the ADA rules.  Emotional support animals are valuable and should have the same status that is provided to assistance animals for people with physical disabilities. 

Given Congress’ track record, please consider supporting organizations that train service dogs for veterans.  While we are waiting for Congress and the Department of Veteran’s Affairs to do SOMETHING, veterans can get the help they need from private sources.

Have a safe Memorial Day.

Rescue Mommy

Reference links:

http://www.prosthetics.va.gov/index.asp

http://www.prweb.com/releases/2013/1/prweb10377254.htm

http://www.puppiesbehindbars.com/about.asp

http://www.cnn.com/2012/06/07/us/cnnheroes-cortani-veterans-dogs/index.html

http://www.cnn.com/2012/11/09/us/cnnheroes-ptsd-service-dogs/index.html?iid=article_sidebar

 

Interesting Experiment

As I have mentioned, Gracie refuses to take long walkies here at our home.  She was zapped for the second time by an electric fence a few weeks ago.  Ever since then, she only wants to walk around our property or at Meemaw’s house.

While we were at Kiawah, we decided to take Gracie for several long walks.  We visited Night Heron Park.  We ran on the beach and swam in the ocean.  Gracie was a little tired but nothing out of the ordinary.  She had no qualms about exploring the island. 

When we returned home, she refused to walk more than a few feet past our gate.  This proved that there is nothing physically wrong with her.  She has some sort of issue.  Is it Angel, the neighbors’ pesky dog?  Is it the electric fence?

Well, the work continues.  It is nice to confirm, though, that she has no issue with exercise.  She just hates the walkie options here.  I guess we should just move to Kiawah!  Sadly, the Powerball win eludes us, so this is not an option, Gracie.

Rescue Mommy

NPR Dog

As we all know too well, Gracie hates to ride in the car.  On recent trips, I have noticed that she enjoys listening to “Car Talk” on NPR.  For some strange reason, it soothes her.  The shaking slowly stops.  The panting is not so bad.

The show was not on the radio when we travelled to Kiawah.  It was on the return trip, though.  After the show ended, it was followed by “Wait, Wait, Don’t Tell Me.”  She seemed to enjoy that show, although not as much as “Car Talk.”  Needless to say, we scanned the radio for every NPR station between Kiawah and our home.  We listened to just about every available NPR program to keep Gracie happy.  Nothing calmed her as much as the “Car Talk” show, though.

In all of my reading about desensitizing a frightened dog, I have never seen a recommendation to pop in a CD of “Car Talk.”  Hey, whatever works! 

If you will excuse me, I am going to visit the NPR website.  Maybe they have recordings of old shows via podcast or CD.  If listening to a couple of Boston mechanics makes Gracie happy, then crank up the volume!

Rescue Mommy

Ticks!!

The ticks have arrived!  We have found three on Gracie so far. 

We do not use a flea preventative medicine on Gracie year round.  In our area (knock on wood), fleas are not a big deal.  Ticks are the problem.  We have a lot of wildlife that attract ticks – turkeys, deer, roaming dogs, coyotes. 

We use Frontline Top Spot, a milder version of Frontline Plus.  Gracie tolerates it well, and it does a good job at repelling ticks.  We especially like that you can apply it between 30 and 90 days.  We let the tick population decide how frequently we use it.   

Ticks carry a lot of nasty diseases that can harm both your pets and you.  It is important that you take preventative steps.  Talk to your vet about treatment options.  You can also look online and learn about medications or natural remedies that have worked well for other people.

One word of caution:  do not overlap treatments.  Centuries ago, I applied a topical flea product to my Dalmatian.  Ticks continued to be a problem so I next washed her with a flea/tick dip.  She began ill and refused to it.  Because I used two flea treatments within a 30-day period, I poisoned my dog!  Fortunately, she recovered.  I have heard stories where other people were not so lucky.

Good luck!

Rescue Mommy

Training Continues

As I alluded on Monday, Gracie continues to have a deep fear of walking anywhere near the electric fence.  It is as if the zap has jumped started the fear machine in her. 

A few days ago, my mom lit a citronella candle while we were sitting on her front porch.  She shook the box of wooden matches.  Grace was terrified, shaking violently and jumping into my arms.  That was a new fear.

Adopting older shelter dogs can be a challenge.  I have no idea what has happened in her life to make her so afraid of the most bizarre things.  As I have said many times, it will take patience and time to resolve the issues.  In some cases, the fear never goes away.  You just try to manage it.

I purchased Victoria Stillwell’s new book, Train Your Dog Positively.  I hope to glean some tips for helping Gracie overcome her anxiety and fear.  You can expect a book review in the coming weeks.

In the meantime, I welcome any advice you may have. 

Rescue Mommy

Weighty Matters

Gracie weighs 20 pounds.  I knew she had put on a little weight over the winter; don’t we all?  My suspicions were confirmed during a recent trip to PetSmart.  They have a clinic in the back of the store.  Beside the counter is a scale which the staff let me use. 

While it was difficult to get a precise weight, the average was about 20 pounds.  Gracie weighed 16 pounds when she joined our little furry family almost four years ago.  I prefer her weight to be in the 17 to 18 pound range.

Obesity is a problem for everyone in this country.  We all need to keep a close eye on our weight so that we can live long, active lives.  Unfortunately, our pets are only here for a short time.  Don’t you want to spend as many years with them as you can?

I would like for Gracie to lose two pounds.  That may not sound like a lot of weight.  It is 10 percent of her body weight.  Imagine how much weight you would lose if you lost 10 percent!

How will I accomplish this?  For starters, I have reduced the size of the treats I make her.  They are now about one-third of the original size.  I am also reducing her wet food intake.  I suspect the new “grain free” food has some extra fillers that are fattening.  The pounds seem to creep on after she began eating grain-free wet food.

The next step is the hardest:  exercise.  This was not an issue until recently.  The zap from the electric fence has left Gracie totally frazzled.  She still refuses to take the usual route for our walkies, preferring to stay on our property.  It is not enough exercise for her.  In the coming weeks, I will try harder to help her overcome her fear so we can resume our long walkies.

Yes, it is hard to help your pet lose weight.  It is not easy for us humans to do it.  We must try, though.  While I am helping Gracie get more exercise, I will help myself in the process.  I want to be here for every moment of Gracie’s life too. 

If you have been a little slack with your or your pet’s health, take this opportunity to put on your sneakers and go for a walk.  You do not have to take a 10-mile walk.  Just start with a few steps.   You can do it!

Rescue Mommy

*Breaking News* Two Big Events This Weekend

I wanted to share the news in case you were looking for something to do on Saturday and/or Sunday.

Saturday, May 11.  Brother Wolf’s “Thrifty Paws at the Bywater” event is tomorrow from noon until 4:00 p.m.  BWAR’s Second Chance Thrift Store will have items for sale, and the shelter will bring dogs for adoption. 

The Bywater is located on 796 Riverside Drive in Asheville.  When “The Hunger Games” was filmed here, the director and some of the cast frequented the place.  It has picnic tables and outdoor grills if you would like to bring a picnic or have a cookout.  You can also enjoy food from food trucks that will be onsite. 

Since the Bywater is a private club, a $5 membership fee is required.  All new membership fees from that day will be donated to BWAR.

Sunday, May 12 – Mother’s Day.  In honor of Mother’s Day, Brother Wolf will offer discounted adoption fees to any mother who adopts adult dogs (6 months or older) and cats.  The reduced fee is $75 for dogs and $40 for cats.

The regular rate is great deal.  The reduced fee is even better!  All animals are spayed/neutered, vaccinated, and microchipped.  Believe me, the cost for those services would be MUCH more expensive through your local vet.

Brother Wolf’s adoption center is located at 31 Glendale Avenue in Asheville.  The shelter hours are 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.  For more information, call 828-505-3440. 

You can also see pictures of available pets at www.bwar.org.  Keep in mind that newly-arrived pets may be at the shelter, yet not on the site yet.  You could be the first to know about a fabulous pet.  Your true love could be waiting for you!

Rescue Mommy

Interesting Conversation

While at Brother Wolf’s Re-Tail Store last Saturday, I met a woman who was adopting a dog.  She spotted Gracie and immediately came over to pet her.  (Standard reaction – Gracie is super cute.)  She told me her 15-year old JRT had just passed away. 

She ruefully admitted she bought the dog from a breeder.  I mentioned that times were different 15 years ago.  Adopting a rescue was not “the thing” that it is today.

I have thought a lot about that conversation.  Affordable opportunities to spay or neuter your pet are readily available in more communities.   Shelters across the country are trying hard to become no kill or partner with local rescue groups to save more lives.  Most importantly, it is very common to hear someone say about their dog or cat that he/she “is a rescue.”  It is cool to adopt, not shop.

Yes, more work is needed to save the millions of animals who do not find homes.  Let’s take a moment to focus on the positive, though.  Tremendous strides have been made in animal care and rescue.  Just imagine what more we can do in another 15 years.

Rescue Mommy

Progress Report

Last week, I mentioned that Gracie’s zap from the electric fence caused a setback in training.  While things are not back to normal, she is acting better.

She has taken a full walkie on the usual route a handful of times.  The last time, she walked at a brisk pace on the return trip but was not totally freaked out.  Believe it or not, that is progress.

What was the trick?  Patience.  I encouraged Gracie to take a few steps down the road, past the safety of our property.  I offered her treats.  When she came to me, I coaxed her to take a few more steps.  I could tell when she reached her limit and gave her lots of affection.  I then turned toward the house, much to her pleasure.

I also took her to my parents’ house.  She ran around their yard and played in the woods.  I knew nothing was physically wrong with her as I watched her race around the property.  As usual, it was all psychological.

She is still nervous, yet I can see the trust returning.  The last jolt has made quite an impression on her so I fear I have more work to do.  I am encouraged by her progress, though.

Oh – one more thing.  I also mentioned last week that I wanted to find a different wet food for her.  The Blue Buffalo food was even greasier than the Castor and Pollux food I usually buy.  The search continues.  Let me know if you have any recommendations.

Rescue Mommy

Spay-Ghetti and No Balls Dinner

The annual Spay-Ghetti and No Balls Dinner will be held tomorrow evening from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at Mayfel’s Restaurant at 22 College Street in Asheville.  The event raises money for Brother Wolf.  As you probably gathered from the name, the focus is usually spay/neuter.

Tickets are $15 for adults, $7 for children ages 5 to 13, and free for kids under 5.  There will be a silent auction, cash bar, and raffle.

For more information, call 828-505-3440.

Cinco de Mayo Adoption Event

Brother Wolf Animal Rescue and over 15 other rescue groups are holding a “Cinco de Mayo Fiesta” adoption event this weekend.  The event will take place on Saturday, May 4 and Sunday, May 5 from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at PetSmart at 150 Bleachery Boulevard in Asheville. 

Banfield will provide discounted $20 microchipping for your pets.  At the event, you can also learn a lot about the organizations in our area who help animals.

For more information, call Brother Wolf at 828-575-2699.

Rescue Mommy

The Great Debate

Gracie has eaten Castor and Pollux organic dog food for some time now.  She had skin issues when we adopted her, and the food helped clear them.  Like most manufacturers, though, the company has on the “grain free” bandwagon.  While you can buy the dry food in the regular formula, I can only find the grain-free version in the wet food. 

This is a problem.  The grain-free version seems to be oilier than the regular formula.  Gracie’s stomach has been bothering her more frequently than normal.  I decided to investigate other brands.  As usual, I turned to the Internet for information.

Oh my goodness!  If you want to worry about every little thing, go to the Internet.  I read about chemical exposure and saw pictures of rotting meat used in pet food.  Some folks recommended Brand X while others said it was horrible.  A lot of people like grain-free food for animals with sensitive stomachs, yet Gracie’s stomach would disagree.

I even read a lot of opinions that the best diet is a homemade diet.  People talked about using organic chicken and vegetables to make delicious food for their pets.  If you can afford to do that and are willing to consult with your vet about the nutritional composition, that is fantastic.  Unfortunately, we do not have unlimited financial resources.  We will buy her the best commercial food we can afford.

In the end, I decided to go with Blue Buffalo Basic.  It contains ingredients you can actually pronounce.  It is not cheap, but she is a small dog.  A can will last several days in the fridge.  I will keep you posted on the results.

The Internet is a great resource.  Keep in mind that it is filled with opinions, including this blog!  Sort through the information and make the best decision you can.  Good luck!

Rescue Mommy

Regression

If you follow this blog, you know that Gracie is a little bundle of anxiety.  She has lived with us for over three years now.  Just when we thought we had rounded a corner and removed some of her trust issues, she threw us a curveball.

Last Monday, she had another encounter with the electric fence our neighbors use with their horses.  The electric jolt seems to have short-circuited her motherboard or something because she has been odd ever since it happened.  She does not want to take her usual walkie route.  She prefers to stay on our property, only venturing a few feet away from our property line.

I took her to my parents’ house to see if she behaved normally in different surroundings.  She was fine.  She ran around their yard and race through a trail in the woods.  She even seemed to enjoy the ride in the car.

I observed that she shook violently when she spotted Angel.  I wonder if some of the problem is that tiresome dog?  She has so much puppy energy and is larger than Gracie.  Maybe Gracie does not want to be bothered during her walkies?  Maybe she associates Angel with the electric fence, since she was standing nearby both times Gracie has been jolted?

Unfortunately, Gracie cannot tell me what is wrong.  It will take patience to move forward.  It is just such a shame that we must start over again.

Rescue Mommy

Just Say No

As much as I believe animals can bring great joy and love into our lives, I have counseled some people NOT to adopt.  I would like to take a few moments to talk about that.

In the few cases where I have done this, the people were not in a good place in their lives for a pet.  They were all good people who will make great pet parents one day – just not today. 

When you look into a puppy or kitten’s eyes, it is very difficult to resist.  You want to take that cuddly bundle of fur home and play, play, play!  Well, what happens next? 

Pets require a lot of work.  Are you prepared to walk that dog when it is 5 below zero outside and blowing snow?  Will you religiously clean the litter box, because your cat will punish you if you do not?  Will you groom your cat or dog?  Will you take it to the vet at least once per year?

After we discuss the time commitment, I run through the costs.  Sure, I know all the affordable care options in the area, yet none of them are free.  Are you willing to spend money for even the basics?  What are you going to do when the animal is seriously sick – and it WILL happen? 

You are a pet lover like me, or you would not be reading this blog every week.  Everyone probably knows they can ask you for advice.  Well, this is your opportunity to do a truly great thing.  If you know someone is not ready for a pet, do not stay silent.  You are doing a great disservice to the animal and to your friend.  Try to find a way to encourage your friend to consider the good, bad, and ugly parts of spending your life with animals. 

The trick is to find a way to do it without sounding like an insufferable know-it-all.  I tend to pose questions like “Well, have you thought about this…” or “You do know that puppy will grow into a 100-pound dog, right?”  I present the facts, point out what should be obvious (i.e. you are severely allergic to cats so don’t adopt a cat), and let the person reach the decision.  If anyone went ahead with the adoption, well, I would have been right there to support him or her. 

Good luck to you if you attempt to do the same thing!

Rescue Mommy

Allergy Season

Are you sneezing and coughing as pollen fills the air?  Odds are, your little buddy is suffering too. 

Environmental allergies are very common in pets.  You may find your pet is itching and sneezing more so than normal.  There are a few things you can do to help your buddy.

I recommend wiping your pet’s fur with a wipe or damp cloth every time he or she returns from outside.  You also might consider increasing the number of baths during allergy season.  Both will help you to reduce the amount of pollen your furry friend brings into the house, which should reduce sneezing for both of you.

Just as with us humans, limit outdoor exposure whenever pollen counts are high.  Some animals are more sensitive to outdoor allergens than others, so this might be particularly helpful for them. 

In some cases, you may need to visit the vet.  Believe it or not, some allergy treatments are not expensive.  Your vet can help you find the right medicine to help your buddy.

Hang in there!  The pollen levels will eventually stabilize so we can all breathe a little easier.

Rescue Mommy

Confessions of an Analytical Mind

Bless Rescue Daddy’s heart.  He endures many an analysis of the slightest animal event.  I have a confession:  I analyze EVERYTHING with my furry children.

My grandmother inspected parachutes for the military so being analytical is in my DNA.  Losing two dogs to cancer only drove me harder to accumulate a database of pet facts, behaviors, and other oddities.  I contend this is not necessarily a bad thing.

It is easy to fly off the deep end if, say, your pet vomits.  Well, I should amend that.  If your dog vomits, it is a big deal.  For most cats, vomiting seems to be a hobby.

When something out of the ordinary happens, I immediately start queries in the pet database stored in my brain.  (SQL has nothing on me.)  I take into account what the pet ate, how much activity she had, the weather and pollen levels (yes, that makes a difference), et cetera.  I analyze all of this information to determine whether or not we are dealing with a serious issue or a routine event.  Careful thinking has kept me from rushing to the emergency vet on many an occasion.

Here are the things that run through my head whenever something goes awry:

1. Has she eaten something that is not part of her normal diet?
2.  Has she been exposed to something new in her environment?  This could range from a new animal to chemicals.
3. Has her activity level changed?  This could include an increase in activity, which might have resulted in an injury.
4. Have you adjusted her diet?  Switched food?
5. Has her routine changed? 
6. Is she pooping, peeing, and drinking water?
7. Has her appetite changed – either increased or decreased?
8. Does she seem to be urinating more frequently or in larger quantities?
9. Is she having “accidents” in the house, even though she is house trained?
10. This one is gross but necessary – how’s her poop?
11. Does she seem interested in food, particularly if you are preparing food in the kitchen?  If I  wanted to remove all doubt, I could fry bacon.  Both Kiki and Gracie are there in seconds.  If they did not appear, it would be time for a vet visit ASAP.

Pay particular attention to #2.  My next-door neighbors use a weed killer that makes Gracie sick every time she is exposed to it.  I have asked them numerous times to alert me before they use it; they never do.  My cats also became sick from a floor cleaner I once used.  I switched to an eco-friendly brand and never had problems with the floor cleaner again.

Observation and knowledge of your pet’s habits is beneficial.  It can help you to put things into the proper prospective and make less emotional decisions.  Then, if you do determine that a trip to the vet is needed, you will have a wealth of information to share.  The doctor does not have the same day-to-day experience with your pet.  Providing as much information as possible can assist him or her with the diagnosis.

Now, if you will excuse me, Kiki and Gracie are sleeping on the couch.  I need to count the number of breaths per minute.  I am joking.

Rescue Mommy

P.S. from Rescue Daddy – not really

Gardening Hazards

Last weekend, we did some long overdue yard work.  With warmer weather finally here, lots of people are doing the same thing.  It is important to remember our pets when we begin our outdoor projects.

Keep in mind that some chemicals in fertilizer and pest treatments are highly toxic to pets.  For more information about bad toxins, visit the ASPCA’s website.   Here is a link to safe gardening suggestions:  http://www.aspca.org/pet-care/pet-care-tips/pet-safe-gardening.aspx.  You will find other information if you search the site for “pesticides.” 

Happy gardening!

Rescue Mommy

Paws on a MIssion

It is that time of year.  All around the Asheville area, it seems there is a walk or 5K on the weekends that raises money for charity.  Swimsuit season is upon us, so what better way to whip into shape?

On Saturday, April 27, Mission Hospital will hold its annual Paws on Parade Walk-a-Thon.  The event will be from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at Carrier Park on Amboy Road in Asheville.

It benefits the pet therapy program at the Mission Health hospital system.  This year’s goal is to raise $10,000.

To learn more, contact Pam Hardin at 828-213-9272 or pam.hardin@msj.org.

 

Adopting Older Dogs

With their cute, wiggly bodies, natural inquisitiveness, and penchant for mischief, puppies are almost irresistible.  Almost.

Puppies are also a huge challenge.  They need house training.  They must learn that “no” means “stop it,” not “keep going!”  As they teeth, they chew everything – your furniture, your favorite shoes, even you – with their super sharp, needle-like teeth. 

If you are ready to do the work and prepared for many setbacks and frustrations, a puppy is right for you.  Some of us are not so adopting an older dog is the way to go.

Gracie was three (we think) when we adopted her.  She was already housetrained.  That was about the extent of her training, though.  She has her own set of challenges which have been chronicled in great detail in this blog.

Brianna, the dog on the front page of our website this week, was adopted by a friend when she was 10 years old.  She had horrible dental issues and has some challenges with housetraining from time to time, given her age.  However, she is a sweet dog who has brought a lot of happiness to our friend.

Adopting an older dog can help you to skip the worst of the puppy behavior.  It is not smooth sailing, though.  You may have behavioral issues to overcome.  You still may need to address the housebreaking issue, although it might be a tad easier.  Dogs older than 1 year have the physical capability to “hold it,” unlike a puppy’s small bladder. 

If you are an active person, you have an almost instant companion.  Depending upon the health of your older dog, he or she may be able to join you on long hikes or runs right away.  Puppies usually are not physically capable of long hikes.  They tire quickly.  As I learned with my Dalmatian, you will then be forced to carry your little buddy back to your house or car.

When you think about adopting your next best friend, consider an older pet.  Unfortunately, a lot of the dogs and cats in shelters are older than one year.  Often, it is not their fault.  Maybe they lost that “cuteness” factor when they were no longer puppies or kittens.  Maybe the family decided to get a puppy, so the 10-year old was kicked to curb.  Whatever the reason, they deserve a second look.  An older dog might fit perfectly into your lifestyle.  Adopt the older dog – and go back to the shelter from time to time and play with the puppies to get your fix.

Rescue Mommy

Feel the Burn

Gracie is a master at interval training.  From what I understand about it, this form of training involves doing some things at a fast place, other things at a slower pace.  Walking with Gracie also improves your coordination as you try to come to a complete stop in two seconds after running full tilt, simply because a smell caught her nose.

We all know that walking our buddies is an excellent form of exercise.  I found an article on the Whole Dog Journal website that provides great information about turning those walks into a great way to get into shape:

http://www.whole-dog-journal.com/issues/16_4/features/Fitness-together_20728-1.html?pg=1

Heaven knows we have all put on a few pounds over the winter and could use the exercise!  I hope you find some useful information.  Lace up those sneakers and start walking!

Rescue Mommy

Training Small Dogs

Throughout my life, I have been surrounded, for the most part, by medium-sized dogs.  They weighed from 50 to 65 pounds, excluding my father’s huge Rottie.    When my beloved Dino passed away, I decided I wanted a smaller dog with a large dog personality.  Gracie perfectly fits that description.

Training a small dog is different from a large dog.  I really wish I had the training article for which I provide a link below much sooner.  It has a lot of tips that I should have realized, yet did not.  Even if you do not have a small dog, you might pick up a few tricks.  Enjoy!

Rescue Mommy

http://www.whole-dog-journal.com/issues/15_12/features/Training-Tiny-Dogs_20654-1.html

Run for the Paws a Huge Success

Congratulations to Brother Wolf Animal Rescue! 

Yesterday afternoon, they held the 4^th annual “Run for the Paws” at Fletcher Community Park in Fletcher, NC.  The event offered participants to either run in a 5K race or walk in a 1-mile fun walk.  You could bring along your canine companion for either event.

From both entry faces and individual fundraising efforts by participants, Brother Wolf raised more than $15,000 for its shelter.  The money will be put to good use as they are a no-kill shelter who does not turn away any pet. 

Congratulations!

Rescue Mommy

AHS Trivia Night

If you do not have any plans tomorrow night, the Asheville Humane Society is hosting another of its popular trivia nights.  Proceeds from the event help with expenses for their foster program.

For more information, check out this link:

http://www.ashevillehumane.org/trivia-night.php

Rescue Mommy

Run for the Paws is Sunday

Brother Wolf’s “Run for the Paws” event is coming up soon.  It is not too late to register!

The event will be held Sunday, April 7.  You can run a 5K race or participate in a 1-mile walk.  Proceeds from the race benefit Brother Wolf.  After the run/walk, they will have a pet wellness fair. 

For more information, check out Brother Wolf’s website at www.bwar.org.

Rescue Mommy

Pet Planning Workshop on Wednesday

This Wednesday, April 6, Brother Wolf will hold a pet planning workshop at their Re-Tail Store on 38 Glendale Avenue in Asheville.  The workshop is presented by a local attorney, Dennis Gibson.  The time is from 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.

We spend a lot of time creating wills and ensuring that our physical property will be disposed of as we wish when we pass away.  What happens to your pets?  So many animals end up in shelters every year because their pet parents did not have adequate arrangements in place.

Also, don’t forget that a serious illness could also create problems.  Recently, I have read a few very sad stories on BWAR’s website because owners fell ill unexpectedly and could no longer care for their beloved pets. 

If you are interested in attending the workshop, you must reserve a spot.  Contact Mr. Gibson at dennis.gibson@bellsouth.net or call 828-669-0375. 

Rescue Mommy

Keep Those Bunnies in the Basket

Every holiday brings an opportunity for our furry friends to raid the sweet treats.  While we all love chocolate bunnies and robin eggs, these treats are toxic for our best.  Please be sure to keep a close eye on that Easter basket.  Make sure your kids understand that chocolate is for their bellies only.

Also, be careful of the “grass” that some people use to line Easter basket.  Kiki adores this plastic stuff.  My Mom gave me the basket I used when I was a child.  It still had a puff of the stuff inside.  One day, I found a little “surprise” from Kiki that included a strand of bright green Easter grass. 

I hope everyone has a safe and happy Easter holiday. 

Rescue Mommy

Easter Party for a Cause

The Asheville Humane Society is holding an Easter Party this Saturday, March 30, from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m.  The party benefits the Humane Society, of course.  Activities include an Easter egg hunt, face painting, cupcake decorating, crafts, puppy and kitten playtime, and a visit from the Easter Bunny.

Tickets are $10 per child.  Space is limited, so contact volunteer@ashevillehumane.org to make a reservation. 

Rescue Mommy

Fear Reactive Dogs

A few days ago, I received a phone call from someone who adopted a pound-bound dog.  He has lived with his new family for several months now.  He is gained weight and blossomed into a very loving dog – toward the family and the family’s dog.  However, he has suddenly become aggressive toward anyone except the man and woman who adopted him. 

Let me preface this post by saying I am not a dog trainer.  I have no specialized training.  I just have many years of experience living with dogs.  My recent experiences with Gracie have taught me a great deal about fear’s power over dogs. 

I told her first to take the dog to the vet.  Pets are stoic.  In the wild, only the strong survive, so animals naturally hide weakness.  It is bred in the bone.  Also, our furry friends cannot talk.  The only way they have to communicate with us is by “acting out.”  What we see as bad behavior may be a cry for help.

If the visit to the vet did not uncover any underlying medical conditions as the culprit, I advised her to consider his history.  Her dog without question was not properly socialized.  I encouraged her to speak with a trainer.  In my non-professionally trained mind, it sounded as the dog had finally settled into a loving home and wanted to protect them.  Again, this is my gut instinct, not professional advice.

I also told her to check out the Internet.  You can find a wealth of information there.  As with anything you read on the Internet, you should carefully consider the source.  ALWAYS seek positive training methods.  Negative training never works and can be enormously detrimental with fearful dogs.  Think how you would feel if you were scared and someone tried to “show dominance” over you, yelled at you, or used a choke-chain on you.  You might do what that person told you, but you would not do it willingly and would most likely grow to hate that person, wouldn’t you?

I told the lady she would have to invest a lot of time and that she should not expect a quick fix.  She told me she really loves the dog and wants to do whatever it takes.  I commend her.  A lot of dogs and cats find themselves at shelters because their owners do not share the same attitude.  I wish her and her sweet rescue the best of luck.

Rescue Mommy

Allergy Alert

Some parts of the country are still experiencing snow storms on a regular basis.  Here in the South, the grass has started to turn green.  The birds are singing.  The dogwood trees have thick buds ready to burst open.  Daffodils have spring from the earth and are in full bloom. 

Now is the time to pay a little extra attention to your buddy.  A lot of animals who experience the great outdoors have problems with seasonal allergies.  It makes sense if you think about it.  They are low to the ground, so their paws and bellies pick up lots of allergens.  Dogs constantly smell everything, so all that pollen just shoots right up their noses. 

All of this results in itchy skin, watery eyes, and sneezing.  Your pet may dig at the fur, resulting in patchy areas of missing fur.  They are in just as much misery as we humans are!

In most cases, antihistamines offer an effective, affordable solution to the problem.  Consult with your vet first.  Do not give your buddy over-the-counter medicines without his or her direction.  Your vet can tell you the exact product to use along with the proper dose.

Good luck!

Rescue Mommy

Frisky Pets

Something about spring always brings out the wildness in Gracie and Kiki. 

Gracie wants to stay outside all the time.  She sighs heavily when she is inside and stares out the window in the living room.  She prefers to explore the outdoors.  She enjoys long naps in the sun.

Lately, Kiki races around the house for no apparent reason.  She has tried to pick fights with Gracie by popping her on the bottom.  She does it to Rescue Daddy and me too.  I am not sure if she is trying to play or generally wants to reprimand all of us for some unknown evil deed. 

The arrival of spring lifts all of our spirits.  Let’s hope a massive snowstorm is not around the corner, or, more likely, a tremendous heat wave that does not end until October.  See, spring has not completely lifted my spirits.

Rescue Mommy

Time Change Woes

I agree with most of you that we should eliminate Daylight Saving Time.  It is awful.

It is still dark in the morning.  It does not feel as if it is time for walkies.  Then, since we have a couple extra hours of daylight in the evening, it feels as if we have plenty of time to tackle chores.  You look up, and it is 9:00 p.m.  What??

You can expect your pets to be a bit disconcerted as well.  We have noticed that Angel is not waiting for us in the morning, as she normally does.  I guess she too thinks it is too early for a walkie. 

Ugh – we will get use to this eventually, and then complain loudly when the time changes again.  We should go back to bed.

Rescue Mommy

Sarge's Photo Contest

We are lucky to have several rescue groups in our area.  One of the groups, Sarge’s Animal Rescue Foundation, has an annual pet photo contest.  This year’s contest ends March 25.

The categories are dog, cat, puppy, kitten, Photographers Younger than 12, Sarge Rescue Pets, other pets (not dogs or cats), and Super Shooters (previous winners).  Visit their website at www.sargeandfriends.org for an entry form.  You can also pick up a form at their adoption center at 256 Industrial Drive in Waynesville or at some Haywood County veterinary clinics and businesses.

The entry fee is $10.  Photos must be originals from an amateur photographer.  Visit their website or call 828-246-9050 to learn more.  Good luck!

Rescue Mommy

Hungry for Pizza

If you are in the mood for pizza tonight, Brizz Wood Fired Pizza in Biltmore Park, Arden, has a special fundraiser for Brother Wolf. 

Go to Brother Wolf’s website (www.bwar.org/events) and download a special coupon.  You must present the coupon!  Brixx will donate $3 per 10” pizza and $1 per kid’s pizza to Brother Wolf.  The offer applies to both dine-in and take-out orders.

Enjoy!

Rescue Mommy