© 2011 Scales, Tails & Paws

Dixie is a 10-year old Australian cattle dog who is a loyal and loving companion. For the last year, she has brightened her owner’s world in a loving home in Cardington, Ohio. Dixie was found by a real estate agent inside an abandoned home, near death and abandoned with no food or water. No one knows how long she was there. The owners, who had Dixie for 9 years, could not take her with them so they closed the door and they never looked back. A local shelter took her in and nursed her back to health. Eventually, she was adopted.

Unfortunately, Dixie’s story is not unique. But local shelters in communities all across the U.S. are crippled with an onslaught of abandoned pets who are casualties of the recession. The economy has strapped local shelters with too many animals and not enough financial resources to care for them. Financial contributions are slim as even the trusted donors are cutting back.

A large number of those people who can donate fall into a common misperception that assumes large national animal organizations provide financial support for animal shelters on a local level. In fact, a recent nationwide poll conducted by the Opinion Research Corporation found seven out of 10 Americans believe the Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) serves as an umbrella organization for all of the nation’s humane societies and animal shelters. This is not the case.

National organizations like the HSUS and the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) have the funding and power to do things on a national level that local shelters do not have the resources to accomplish. Conversely, it is the local shelters that provide the first-line of defense in communities to get animals in need immediate care and adopt them out to loving homes. While the goals are the same, these organizations all perform different functions and all too often, they also solicit the same donor base. It is the local shelters that often suffer as a result.

“We are lucky to have such a dedicated team in Washington fighting for us and the animals on a national level,” said Kellie DiFrischia of the Columbus Dog Connection. “I often tell friends and family that the national organizations play an important role to helping homeless animals, but if they give locally and specify they want their funds used strictly for spay/neuter programs, this donation will have the greatest impact on the homeless issue that we all spend so much time and energy trying to overcome.”

In recent years, local shelters and the national organizations have tried to find ways to work together because they all want to protect animals, but how they get there varies from organization to organization and from shelter to shelter.

“People think all shelters get government funding,” said Stephanie Wimbish, Director of the Citizens for Humane Action (CHA) Animal Shelter in Columbus, Ohio. “They do not think about us in the way they do other charities. The five dollar donation, the $25 donation keeps our doors open.”

For each animal in the care of the CHA Animal Shelter, it costs approximately $494 to provide shelter, veterinary care and medicine, spay/neuter services, comfortable cages and emergency surgery if needed. Some dogs and cats are adopted out for as little as five dollars.

“Their money goes to the direct care of animals,” Wimbish said. The end result is affordable adoptions and assurance for donors that their money is well spent.

In 2010, that direct care was spread thin in shelters due to the tremendous increase in owner-surrenders. A survey conducted by Wimbish of just five shelters in the Central Ohio region last year showed more than 26,000 animals that required care and housing.

That is even more reason that donors need to carefully examine where their dollars are going to make sure it is a good fit for their wishes. There are several resources that provide financial statements of organizations and shelters as well as documentation showing the trickle-down of donations. Websites like Charitynavigator.org and Guidestar.org provide ratings and financial tracking. The Better Business Bureau also provides tips for donating and rating information on organizations through Give.org.

In this financial climate, every dollar matters. Local shelters are reaching out to let donors know that even a few dollars can help feed, medicate or shelter an animal on the local level. And for loving animals like Dixie, it means the difference between recovery and someone else closing the door.

By Joshua Spiert/Acme Canine

Dogs come in all shapes, sizes, and colors, but dog lovers treat them all with the same compassion.  The sun, unfortunately, is not so kind.  It may send one dog to the door panting or leave another so scorched that it’s hot to the touch.  Several factors determine a dog’s sensitivity to heat and the sun.  These variables will decide to what degree a pooch will be praying for a pool party or a place in the shade.  Everything from the size of the dog to the color and grooming style of its fur will make a definite difference in the dog days of summer.

A dog’s body size is very likely to determine how easily it will overheat.  “Dogs build up heat as a function of volume and lose it as a function of surface area,” writes Caroline Coile, of Petside.com.  “This means that larger dogs with rounder bodies have less surface area for their size, and build up heat faster.”  A pocket-sized Pekingese will not suffer the same effects as quickly as a massive Bull Mastiff.

Another interesting note is that flat- or snub-nosed dog breeds tend to overheat easier and do not do well in hot weather.  This includes breeds like Boxers, Pugs, and Bulldogs.  Since dogs regulate body temperature partly through panting, those that do not breathe as well also do not regulate as well.

On one particular 85 degree sunny day here at Acme Canine, the doggie daycare group lounged in the facility’s side yard.  The yard contains areas of both sun and shade.  Most of the dogs smartly stayed in the shade.  Our temporary resident dog Acme, an Old English Sheepdog, occasionally trotted back and forth from sunshine to tree cover.  The first dog to eventually need shelter, however, was Dixon, a Bernese Mountain Dog.  She informed the supervisor with her panting, while Acme was relaxing inside a plastic play house, sun relentlessly beating down (and as usual Spike, French Weiner and literal teacher’s pet, lay watching everyone, hoarding his ball and chewing on twigs in the corner by the fence).

Acme and Dixon are roughly the same size with medium-to-long fur (or hair in Acme’s case).  Their major differences are revealed in their coat.  Acme has grey and white curly hair, while Dixon has mostly brown and black fur.  A dog with a darker coat will absorb heat much faster than one with a lighter coat.

Light-colored dogs are not out of the woods either.  Though their coats may reflect more sunlight and heat than their dark-haired friends, they are more prone to sunburns and skin problems related to sun exposure.  Fair-skinned dogs are just as susceptible to sun sensitivity and skin cancer as fair-skinned people are.  “Cats, dogs, and horses that spend a lot of time in the sun and have a light colored coat or lacking the black pigment around the eyes, ears, and nose, can get sunburned,” writes Dr. Janet Tobiassen Crosby, a doctor of veterinary medicine who discusses animal safety issues.  “Long term effects of sun exposure may include skin cancers such as squamous cell carcinoma and malignant melanoma.”

To combat these particular dangers, use sunscreen for fair-skinned and lightly-colored dogs.  According to Dr. Julie Damron of the Sierra Veterinary Clinic, sunscreen like non-toxic Bullfrog can be used.   Most sunscreen that uses titanium dioxide as the active ingredient can be used as well.  To be certain, however, one can buy dog-specific sunscreen in most pet stores.

Dogs with undercoats, or a second layer underneath the top layer of fur, present another problem.  Stylish summer shaves are popular among dog owners, but surprisingly this can be counterproductive.  Dogs release most of their body heat from the lungs (panting), nose, and the pads of their paws.  As a result, they do not need the shaved look to cool down.  Cutting the fur too close to the skin can even increase the dangers.  Undercoats provide insulation from both cold and heat.  There will be less protection from the heat and, if the dog burns easily, it may take barrels of sunscreen to stay protected.  More important to dogs with undercoats is proper brushing routines to keep the coat neat.  Dogs with dark coats can usually get a trim, as long as it does not overexpose the skin underneath.  Owners who have dogs with light coats should use extra caution when deciding on a grooming style. “If you do shave your pet, leaving at least one-fourth inch of coat will still help to reduce burns and tumors,” writes Dr. Damron.

For dogs that seem prone to heat or sun sensitivity, there are measures one can take in order to avoid harm in the hot months:

KEEP WATER AVAILABLE any time the dog is in the heat.

WATCH for signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke.  Early signs include excessive panting, stumbling, rapid heart rate, and bluish coloring on the tongue.

USE SUNSCREEN to protect fair-skinned and light-coated dogs from burns that can lead to skin cancer and other maladies.  Pet stores carry sunscreens specifically created for dogs that do not contain harmful or toxic ingredients.

DO NOT leave a dog exposed to the elements unattended for an extended period of time (this also includes the obvious “never leave a dog in a parked car” rule).  If it is above 90 degrees, avoid leaving the dog outside for more than five minutes.

BE AWARE of the dog’s vulnerabilities.  This rule could even encompass all the others.  If the dog is fair-skinned, use sunscreen or t-shirts to protect it.  If it is dark, do not leave it in the heat and sun as long as you may leave other dogs.  Do not walk a dog on black pavement that may feel scalding on its pads.  This basically means to simply use common sense and be mindful that dogs feel the impact of heat and the sun even more intensely than people do.  React to behavior quickly and responsibly and the dog will stay healthy, happy, and cool.

References:

http://vetmedicine.about.com/od/diseasesandconditions/a/mb081304.htm

http://www.veterinaryinsider.com/public/Thinking-About-Shaving-Your-Dogs-Hair-Coat-For-The-Summer-Think-Again.cfm

http://dogs.digestopia.com/2011/06/17/combat-the-harmful-effects-of-sun-and-heat-on-your-pets/

http://www.peteducation.com/article.cfm?c=2+2111&aid=1118

http://www.mydogspace.com/dogs/help-your-dog-beat-summers-heat

http://sierravetclinic.com/pet-articles/shaving-your-dog-may-not-be-the-best-way-to-beat-the-heat.html

http://phoenix.about.com/od/animvet/a/dogsheat_2.htm

Reprinted with permission by Acme Canine © 2011

Written By Nico Kramer, Animal Instincts Training

What would a good action movie be without tires screeching, sirens wailing and of course, the BOOM of big explosions! While these are all things we consider fun and exciting (at least in a movie) our dogs often find them very frightening. Dogs can become nervous around unknown loud sounds like thunder, cars back firing and fireworks.

Typically, the behavioral problems that arise from this generally fall into one of two areas; destruction and/or escaping. Because of the traumatic nature that some dogs face when confronted with these sounds, they may try to escape the noise by hiding. If this doesn’t work, they may try to “dig” or destroy things either in an attempt to get away from the sound, or out of sheer panic. Just the physical activity of chewing or pawing will sometimes calm the restlessness of the dog.

While this in itself is a serious issue, it can turn into something even more serious. Dogs can start to associate unrelated things with the sound like wind, blowing leaves, even certain smells or people depending on what is or has happened when they initially became afraid.

Luckily, there are a few things you can do to help easy your pet’s nerves. Below I have a few tips on how to stop the behavior before it starts, and a few tips on how to help your pet if they are already afraid of sounds like thunder.

If you have a new puppy try these types of things to help them get used to potentially scary sounds.

1. Play with your puppy in a happy and fun way before, during and after a sound. If they jump from a clap of thunder immediately do something to engage in play. Don’t overly “baby” the puppy, instead roll around or wrestle or play fetch indoors with lots of positive association!
2. When you are away, leave a TV on, preferably with a TV show or movie that has a lot of action. Be sure the sound isn’t up too loud. You can also use environmental cds with thunderstorms on them.
3. If you know a storm is coming and you won’t be home that day, consider doggie daycare or seeing if a friend can come over to play with your puppy during the storm.

If you currently have a dog that shows anxiety during storms try these tips.

1. Create a “den” for your dog to go to when a storm approached. Remember, this has to be someplace your dog feels safe. Dogs typically like smaller, enclosed spaces, so maybe set some blankets or a sleeping bag in a closet with a light on, in a hall closet.
2. Consider using a radio or TV to help block out sounds. Surprisingly this can help as well.
3. Try to stay calm yourself. Remember, your dog looks to you for guidance and leadership, if your panic stricken, chances are your dog will be too
4. There are new products on the market to help comfort dogs like the Thunder Shirt, etc. They are made to apply pressure on a dogs body to help relieve stress. The company reports about an 80% success rate at helping to reduce stress.
5. For serious cases, talk with a canine trainer or behaviorist about desensitization and counter conditioning. These programs have pretty good success, but must be continued or relapses can occur.
6. As with puppies, try something fun! If the dog is excitable (like jumping up on you a lot during a storm) try working on basic behaviors like sit and down. Try playing games and use food rewards to show that good things can happen during storms.

Published with permission from Nico Kramer, Animal Instincts Training

Most of us know how dangerous chocolate, raisins and many different types of plants can be to our pets. Did you know, something as small as a piece of sugarless gum can wreak havoc on your pet’s system as well? How about cocoa mulch used in flower beds?

Pets are not picky when it comes to putting things in their mouths. It is up to us, as responsible pet owners, to keep potentially life threatening hazards out of their reach.

March 19th-25th marks National Poison Prevention Week. In light of this week, please take time to educate yourself on potential dangers lurking in your home or yard. Always keep the number of poison control by your phone in case the unimaginable happens. To reach The Center, please call

1-888-4ANI-HELP

To read more, check out the ASPCA’s Poison Control website. It may just save a life!

http://www.aspca.org/pet-care/poison-control/

At the first hint of spring, may of us find ourselves making resolutions, going on diets, changing our hairstyle and vowing to exercise more.  Many of us also get our pets ready for this time of year by taking them in for a bath and trim. This article is meant to help you find that perfect groomer for your pet(s). At this time, there are no licensing requirements to become a groomer, however many groomers choose to obtain certifications through the National Dog Groomers Association of America, the International Society of Canine Cosmetologists and/or the International Professional Groomers Inc. When searching for a groomer, check for certifications from these any of these organizations.

You can start your search by asking pet professionals such  as your vet, sitter or local supply store who they recommend. Also check with friends, family members or co-workers. This goes for cats as well as dogs. People often forget that cats occasionally need grooming as well, especially long haired breeds where the fur is difficult to deal with and regular grooming can prevent furballs from clogging the intestines of your favorite feline. Mats are also very uncomfortable and can cause a myriad of health issues.

If your particular breed requires specialized grooming, ask the breeder (if local) for a good recommendation or what specific questions to ask.

Groomers who are good at what they do are often busy and work on a tight schedule. Don’t wait for last minute before a special event to schedule the appointment as many times they are booking two weeks out.

Scales Tails & Paws has two groomers who we recommend without hesitation. Shannon and her team at Polaris Pet Salon, have been our personal pets groomer for the last 14 years. My old and grumpy guy actually gets excited to see her! That is a feat as he is one hard to please pup.

If you are looking for a mobile groomer, you can”t go wrong with Marni and her team from Aussie Pet Mobile. Many of our clients swear by her and they do outstanding work.

Finally, check with places like the BBB, Angie’s List or the local ASPCA to see if any complaints have been filed against the groomer and why. If you take your time and make an educated decision, you will find a wonderful groomer who will have a lifetime relationship with your pet.

1.    Even though you won’t be home and even though the temperatures are moderate on the day you leave for vacation, keep in mind that temperatures can and will fluctuate, especially during the winter and summer months.  Instead of turning off the heat or A/C completely, keep it between 60 to 70  so that your pet remains comfortable.  A few days of high temperatures can heat up a closed house quickly and your pet can suffer from it.

2.    If you don’t have A/C or can’t leave it on, put some fans out for your sitter to keep on during the day.  Let your sitter know if there are any fans that can be kept on continually so that there is circulation through the house and your pet has the ability to lay in front of it.  Ceiling fans also help keep rooms cool.  Let your sitter know if he/she can turn these on as well.

3.    If you have a basement and it’s safe for your pets to be down there, open the door so they can escape the heat that way.

4.    If you live in a safe neighborhood and are comfortable with leaving a window cracked, open some upstairs windows and let your sitter be aware of which ones are open.  Instruct your sitter to close them if a storm is predicted.  Additionally, some windows have safety latches that only allow windows to be opened so far.  You may also be comfortable with cracking these types of windows downstairs.

5.    Leave extra bowls of water for your pets.  Dogs especially need extra water after a walk in the heat.  Let your sitter know where extra bowls are or, just set some out before you leave.

6.    Let your sitter know ahead of time what plants need watering during your absence.  Outdoor container plants require regular attention during the hot months.

7.     Leave a watering can for your sitter for those plants where a hose will not reach.  Let your sitter know where the hose is and how to use it.  Advise your sitter if there is a sprinkling system that will be coming on and what plants are not within reach of the sprinklers.

8.    To make it easier for your sitter, if possible, move all of your indoor plants to a central location.  A counter top, a corner of the kitchen or even a sun porch.  This way, plants are not missed during the indoor watering.

9.    Leave specific instructions for specialty plants like orchids.  Not everyone knows that orchids are treated a bit differently than, say, a philodendron.

10.    Let your sitter know how often to water indoor plants.  Again, different plants need different care.

Following these simple tips should make an atmosphere for happy pets and happy plants!