Tuesday, December 30, 2008

Is your cat plotting against you?

I ran across this clever illustrated guide to whether your cat is plotting to kill you.

You see, I read things like this and Get Fuzzy and I truly wonder about the wisdom of having a cat.

And then there's Garfield, which shouldn't be spoken of in the same breath as Get Fuzzy.

But that's just me.

Be sure and take the quiz to see what percentage chance your cat really is plotting to kill you.

I did.

Is your cat plotting to kill you?

89 percent!

And I don't even have a cat!

That is truly scary.

Monday, December 29, 2008

Video Monday

What is it about dogs and snow?

Kate used to bite at the snow as it was falling, and loved to run around in it, as long as it wasn't too deep.

The user video section of the Weather Channel's Web site has three videos of snow-related pooches.

First is a couple of College Station, Texas, basset hounds at war over a snowball. No. 2 is about three dogs destroying what was going to be the base of a snowman in Aurora, Ill. Third, a border collie in Lehi, Utah, runs around (of course).

The commercials are annoying (especially the one selling the stool softener), but the videos are cute.

Thanks, Kathy, for the heads up!

Friday, December 26, 2008

Sweetie needs your help


I interviewed a Pleasant Valley family the other day whose dog, Sweetie, a 12-year-old terrier mix, has leukemia.

The prognosis isn't good; without treatment, Sweetie could die in a month.

Ron Lipton, Sweetie's owner, is going through extremely tough financial times and can't afford the $200 combination blood tests and medicine that could give the dog up to another 2 years.

A local rescue and fostering organization contributed the first $200, but Ron's asking for other people to open their hearts and wallets and help him give Sweetie a fighting chance.

Here's the complete story on PoughkeepsieJournal.com.

I spent some time with Sweetie and the Lipton family on Wednesday. You could never tell the pooch is sick. To say she enthusiastically greets visitors to their home would be an understatement. She is a real sweetheart.

Sweetie means more than the world to the Liptons. Taking her from them would be devastating.

Donations to Sweetie's medical care should go directly to Pleasant Valley Animal Hospital, c/o Mary Lictro,18 Gretna Road, Pleasant Valley, NY 12569. Call 845-635-2110.

Thursday, December 25, 2008

Ready for adoption


Here is the Dutchess County SPCA Pet of the Week — Ready for adoption. What are you waiting for?

This week's featured pet:
Saki — Shiba Inu mix
"They packed the china, the sheets and the furniture, but left the family pet behind. This 7-year-old male Shiba Inu mix is low key, housebroken and good with other animals. Saki is also taking medication for a thyroid condition, but this situation is easily and inexpensively maintained. Saki would do best in a home with older children."

The Dutchess County SPCA is located at 636 Violet Avenue, Hyde Park, NY 12538. The shelter is open Sunday, Monday, Friday and Saturday 11:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Tuesday and Thursday 11:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. Closed Wednesdays. Call 845-452-SPCA (7722). Browse our adoptable animals today!

Shelter pets rule.

Christmas, 2008


Kate endured what is becoming a Christmas tradition of putting antlers on her and taking a picture. I found a festive collar at Bed Bath & Beyond to accentuate the holiday spirit.

The photo was taken last Friday just as the 9 inches of snow began to fall.

She put up with it just long enough.


One second after this picture was taken the antlers were no longer on Kate's head

She is a great pooch, and we both wish you a Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays.

Wednesday, December 24, 2008

Continued caution about chicken jerky products

The Food and Drug Administration continues to warn about a potential association between illness in dogs and eating chicken jerky products.

The entire warning can be seen here.

Complaints about sick dogs that their owners or veterinarians associate with eating the products — also called chicken tenders, strips or treats — continue to come in to the FDA. The products are imported from China. The FDA issued a cautionary warning to consumers in Sept. 2007.

Scientists have not been able to determine a cause for the reported illness.

The FDA recommends, if you choose to feed your dog chicken jerky products, to watch the dog closely and stop feeding them to your dog if it shows any of the following signs:
• decreased activity
• vomiting
• diarrhea, sometimes with blood
• increased water drinking or increased urination

Holiday on the verge

Well, it's Christmas Eve, everyone.

I got a Christmas card from my sister yesterday and I just had to share it with you.

Watch this video for the full effect. The "ticka ticka ticka ticka" sound you hear at the end is Kate coming to see what all the hubbub is.



And it wouldn't be Christmas without my favorite, favorite video: a Flash animation by Joshua Held of "White Christmas" recorded by Clyde McPhatter and the Drifters in 1953. It is, frankly, genius.

I was trying to plan what I would post for Christmas Eve and wanted to show the animation again. I had bookmarked its Enterwebs address and went to play it, but I got a message that the page couldn't be found.

Panic ensued. I googled, and I'm not ashamed to admit it.

Well, thanks to the youtube machine things still exist. What would we do without youtube?

Any who, here is "White Christmas" by the Drifters.



Genius, I said.

And to all a good night.

Tuesday, December 23, 2008

Winter weather tips for your pets

The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals has some suggestions on how to keep your companion animals safe and healthy during the winter.

A complete list can be found here.

Among the hints are:
• Keep your kitty inside. Outside, cats can freeze, become lost or be stolen, injured or killed.

• Never let your dog off the leash in snow or on ice, especially during a snowstorm. They can lose their scent and easily become lost.

• Wipe off your dog's legs and stomach when she comes in out of the sleet, snow or ice. Your dog can ingest salt, antifreeze or other dangerous chemicals while licking its paws, and the paw pads can also bleed from snow or encrusted ice.

Christmas confirmation, Darlene Love style

Sorry for the lack of posts lately, what with the snow and and a day off, there hasn't been much time left over to blog.

But anyway, totally not pet-related, it's Christmas Time and nothing makes it seem like it really is Christmas until I hear Darlene Love singing "Christmas (Baby Please Come Home)."

She is scheduled to sing it on The Late Show with David Letterman tonight and I urge you, urge you to DVR it or TiVo it or even stay up and watch it live.

Until then, here is Darlene Love from two years ago, via the miracle that is youtube.com.

As one of the youtube posters said, she is the only one who should be allowed to sing this classic.

Thursday, December 18, 2008

Ready for adoption — video edition



Here is the Dutchess County SPCA Pet of the Week — Ready for adoption. What are you waiting for?


This week's featured pet:
Sweetie — Domestic longhair
"This longhair regal, young female acts cool and collected, but we know she's aching to find a lap to keep warm this holiday season. A home with other cats is OK, but Sweetie would do best in a home without canine companions. Come give Sweetie the best holiday gift she could ask for: a new home."

The Dutchess County SPCA is located at 636 Violet Avenue, Hyde Park, NY 12538. The shelter is open Sunday, Monday, Friday and Saturday 11:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Tuesday and Thursday 11:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. Closed Wednesdays. Call 845-452-SPCA (7722). Browse our adoptable animals today!

Shelter pets rule.

Wednesday, December 17, 2008

Obama discusses non-federally insured deposits

Leave it to a group of school children to get the president-elect to say the "P" word.

Here's a clip from the Rachel Maddow Show on MSNBC showing Barack Obama with Vice-President-elect Joe Biden and education-secretary-designate Arne Duncan speaking with some Chicago elementary school kids.

Be warned: there is a commercial at the beginning of the clip; Obama's comments begin approximately 30 seconds into the video.

To make sure you understand the importance of these comments, I have transcribed them below.
"If they do their [slight pause] business, if they've got some poop, you've got to make sure you're not just leaving it there. So I want to make sure that my kids are taking care of their dog properly. I think they are old enough now to do that."
Good for the president-elect. Getting right to the issues at the heart of young minds. Right after Iraq.

Tuesday, December 16, 2008

Training, training, training

I was coming home from doing some shopping yesterday and as I drove in my complex there was a brindle pit bull running around the parking area.

The dog darted in front of my car several times as I slowly tried to drive to my parking spot.

Then a guy appeared, waving at me as if to say "Oops, runaway dog alert."

I parked and got out of my car and the guy and the dog were still doing that "dance" that dogs and their owners do when the dogs don't want to be "caught."

I tried to get the dog's attention but it was having TOO much fun having everyone chase after him. Apollo was the dog's name, so the guy kept calling him.

I figured we could try and get the pooch to come into my patio area and capture it, but the dog came close to me and I was able to grab its collar.

The 1-1/2-year-old dog was having such a good time, making his owner chase him around the parking lot.

That took me back.

Kate was a real pisser in the early days. We would go to the dog park and she would make me chase her, until, eventually, she would let me catch her.

I consulted our trainer, who suggested I either keep a leash attached to her (so I could step on the leash and get her that way; not always a good idea in a crowded dog park) or just "walk away."

The "walk away" strategy was supposed to work this way: I walk away from Kate, who will suddenly realize she is being abandoned and will pine to be taken by me back to our home.

That was the way it was supposed to work.

In reality, Kate wouldn't come to me when I wanted to leave the dog park and started playing "catch me if you can." After several embarrassing minutes, I walked away from the park.

I kept looking back and she was having a wonderful time playing with the other dogs. I was completely out of her sight and, I was told, she never gave any indication that she missed me.

Eventually, I came back to the dog park. Eventually, one of the other dog owners grabbed her collar.

It was a long walk home.

Eventually, Kate began responding to the "come" command.

It took a lot of work and a lot of practice, but we learned the command — eventually.

Friday, December 12, 2008

More advice on finding a presidential caliber dog

The presidential dog debate continues as the American car industry does a melt down and the economy continues to give me the willies.

An Associated Press article outlines the rough road ahead for the Obamas and the quest for the perfect White House pooch — one that is compatible with the historic surroundings and situation in which it will find itself and doesn't aggravate daughter Malia Obama's allergies.

The article says there is no perfect dog, only a dog that is perfect for one's family.
"It's not the breed, and it's not even so much where it's from," said Patricia McConnell, an animal behaviorist and host of Wisconsin Public Radio's "Calling All Pets." What's important, she said, is that the Obamas set a good example by "picking a dog based on its behavioral as well as its physical health, from a credible, responsible place."
Of course, being in the spotlight can cause problems, but then the Obamas will certainly be in a position to get the best advice and training available.
White House life can be demanding for a dog. People are always coming and going, many eager to schmooze. One of Bush's two Scottish terriers, Barney, is famous with children nationwide for his "Barneycam" holiday Web videos, but more recently he popped up in a clip on YouTube nipping a reporter who persisted in trying to get his attention. The Reagans' Bouvier des Flandres, a large, energetic dog named Lucky, was moved to their California ranch after becoming too rambunctious.
Didn't that happen to several Cabinet members in the Reagan administration?

A sidebar to the article contained tips from animal experts on finding the perfect pooch for you, even if your address isn't 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue.

Thursday, December 11, 2008

Ready for adoption


Here is the Dutchess County SPCA Pet of the Week — Ready for adoption. What are you waiting for?

This week's featured pet:
Todd — Terrier mix
"One look at this face and you know you have a winner here. This 1-year-old terrier mix came in as a stray, but we are certain he will leave soon as a cherished family pet. An active, adult home would be best for this high-energy guy and some obedience classes would only help to bring out the best in Todd."

The Dutchess County SPCA is located at 636 Violet Avenue, Hyde Park, NY 12538. The shelter is open Sunday, Monday, Friday and Saturday 11:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Tuesday and Thursday 11:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. Closed Wednesdays. Call 845-452-SPCA (7722). Browse our adoptable animals today!

Shelter pets rule.

Wednesday, December 10, 2008

Cats and cars don't mix

There's one lucky cat in Massachusetts.

According to an Associated Press story, Edgar, a 4-year-old long-haired female feline, disappeared for a few days last week and returned home with part of her face dangling from her head.

Thirty-five stitches later and the kitty is doing fine.
Remarkably, Edgar suffered no major blood lost nor sustained any permanent nerve damage from her accident. She just needed to have her facial skin stitched back on during an hour surgery, according to veterinary surgeon Michael Pavletic.
Veterinarians believe Edgar was injured by a car's fan belt when she tried to stay warm under the hood.

The obvious joke is "one life down, eight to go."

Tuesday, December 9, 2008

Putting pressure on the pres-elect

All this week "Mutts" creator Patrick McDonnell is talking about President-elect Barack Obama and his desire to get a shelter dog.

Here's what I've had to blog about the matter.

You can't read "Mutts" in the Poughkeepsie Journal, unfortunately, but you can read it online at the Washington Post here. That's where I get my daily Earl and Mooch fix.

Michael Cavna, who writes the "Comic Riffs" blog for the Post, interviewed McDonnell about his first foray into the political arena.

Read the interview here.

Sunday, December 7, 2008

Pets + Santa = Fun

On Saturday, pet owners lined up to have their companion animals' pictures taken with Santa Claus.



The event, which was a benefit for the Dutchess County SPCA, was held at Petco in the Town of Poughkeepsie. The photos were taken by Al Nowak of On Location Studios, also in Town of Poughkeepsie.

Here is Debbie Napolitano of Wappingers Falls and her greyhounds Chance, 6, Logan, 5, and Chinaberry, 5, getting the paparazzi treatment with Kris Kringle.



And it was not just dogs that were the center of attention with Santa.


Most of the pooches were patient.


Here's Al (left) making his magic.


Jill Greaves of the City of Poughkeepsie brought Freddy, her 6-year-old bassett hound to have his picture taken.


Wingdale resident Melanie Skillman wanted a picture taken with Santa and her 1-year-old bison frise Rose and 9-year-old Yorkshire terrier Ricky. Ricky looks good in a Santa hat.

Friday, December 5, 2008

Pix with Santa for your pets

Want your pet's picture taken with Santa?

Then head down to Petco in Poughkeepsie Saturday for a benefit for the Dutchess County SPCA.

On Location Studios will be taking pictures of leashed or crated pets and their owners from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at the 1933 South Road location.

DCSPCA Executive Director Joyce Garrity said the Santa will be animal experienced and people can do several poses and then chose which they like.

People will go to the studio to choose the print and pick up their photos. A color studio 5x7 portrait is $10. Reprints, enlargements and holiday cards are available.

If you want to see the video from last year, it is below.



The shelter is also accepting gifts for its animals, such as steel bowls, toys, blankets and canned food. Dry food will be accepted for the Community Pet Pantry.

Ready for adoption


Here is the Dutchess County SPCA Pet of the Week — Ready for adoption. What are you waiting for?

This week's featured pet:
Doxie — Maine Coon
"Throughout the last few weeks, you have seen pictures of several Maine Coons that came in via our humane law team. Doxie is part of that seizure, one of only a handful left that needs a home. This handsome, 3-year-old, black-and-silver female has a stately look and air of confidence that belies her somewhat quiet personality."

The Dutchess County SPCA is located at 636 Violet Avenue, Hyde Park, NY 12538. The shelter is open Sunday, Monday, Friday and Saturday 11:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Tuesday and Thursday 11:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. Closed Wednesdays. Call 845-452-SPCA (7722). Browse our adoptable animals today!

Shelter pets rule.

Thursday, December 4, 2008

Holiday hints for pet safety

The holidays can be strange and trying times for the pets in your lives. A lot can be going on, and needless to say, there can be quite a few more temptations for your dog or cat not to pass up.

The people at MyPetCareTV.com have some tips to help you and your pet to pass the holidays in safety and in good health:

House guests should be reminded not to feed the pets human food, especially fatty foods and candy.

Leave pets in safe areas or outdoors during dinner parties when you are too occupied to watch them.

Be sure pets wear identification tags at all times. Visitors can inadvertently let your dog or cat out.

Keep candles out of the reach of pets.

Dangly ornaments or table decorations can be hard for a pet to ignore. Ingested decorations can require a visit to the veterinary emergency room.

If you are traveling by car with your pet, plan ahead to ensure that you can find hotels that accept pets.

If traveling by air, try to get a direct flight. Check the expected temperature of your destination airport. Luggage carts stranded on the tarmac or sat in a plane for hours while it is delayed.

If you are staying at a pet-friendly hotel and you need to leave your pet unattended, put a "do not disturb" sign on the door. You don't want housekeeping to accidentally let your pet out.

For the complete list, see the article on PioneerLocal.com.

Wednesday, December 3, 2008

Kate's grand adventure

I spent the Thanksgiving weekend in Cleveland at the Christmas Story House Convention, where I attended the premiere of a documentary I've been working on for the past year.

The feature-length film is called "The Untold Christmas Story," a behind-the-scenes movie, which stars actors from the holiday favorite "A Christmas Story." It was directed and edited by my friend Bill Szarka. If you are curious, here are the trailer and a couple of clips from the film.

As always, the problem with going away is what to do with Kate. Couldn't take her to Cleveland.

Fortunately, my editor Maria Burnham volunteered to take care of Kate for the weekend.

Maria documented the weekend for me, leaving out pictures of the little stomach upset Kate had. She wasn't eating much, probably because of the change in circumstances, and when she doesn't eat, she throws up. Again, Maria, my apologies.

Apparently, Kate made herself right at home, commandeering Roland's bed, even though Maria brought Kate's bed from our home. Roland was a gentleman about it. Maria's cat Wookiee, on the other hand, was non-plussed.

Here are Maria's pix:

Kate and Roland meet.


Kate inspects the digs.


Kate inspects Roland.


Wookiee is not impressed.


Kate wonders where all the food is.


Kate makes herself at home ... in Roland's bed.


Roland wonders, what is up with that?


Kate and Roland on a walk.

Friday, November 28, 2008

Kate dances!



Well, the good folks at JibJab have this nifty Interweb type thingie that lets you put yourself or loved ones into Christmas videos based on the movie "Elf."

Kate, being ever photogenic, is the star of the one I made. And there is a cameo by yours truly.

And, of course, you can buy stuff, including a downloadable version of the video to have and keep and bore all your friends with.

The JibJab people are extremely clever, don't you think?

Thursday, November 27, 2008

Ready for adoption — Thanksgiving edition


Here is the Dutchess County SPCA Pet of the Week — Ready for adoption. What are you waiting for?

This week's featured pet:
Maddy — Tabby
"You'd think Mandy's got it made the way she's just lounging about in her cat bed. Life is pretty good for the cats residing in the free-range room, but it is clearly no substitute for a home and a family. This striking brown tabby female would gladly trade the bed for a lap. A home with other feline friends would be fun as well. Mandy loves a big family!"

The Dutchess County SPCA is located at 636 Violet Avenue, Hyde Park, NY 12538. The shelter is open Sunday, Monday, Friday and Saturday 11:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Tuesday and Thursday 11:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. Closed Wednesdays. Call 845-452-SPCA (7722). Browse our adoptable animals today!

Shelter pets rule.

Wednesday, November 26, 2008

Voluntary pet food recall extended

Mars Petcare US has extended its voluntary recall of dry cat and dog food manufactured at its Allentown, Penn., facility with "Best By" dates between August 11, 2009 & October 3, 2009, because of potential contamination with Salmonella.

See the complete press release here.

The recall affects product sold at BJ's Wholesale Club, ShopRite Supermarkets and Wal-Mart locations in Connecticut, Delaware, Massachusetts, Maryland, Maine, North Carolina, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Virginia, Vermont, and West Virginia.

The press release lists all the brands affected by the recall. This is an extension of the voluntary recall of Special Kitty brand dry cat food.

So far, there have been no reported cases of human or pet illness causes by these products.

Cat health research needed

There are 82 million cats in homes across America — you know who you are.

In spite of the fact that cats are the No. 1 pet in the U.S., felines receive less medical care than dogs. Also there is less medical research on cats than on dogs.

Because of that, the Morris Animal Foundation has started the Happy Healthy Cat Campaign to help eliminate suffering and premature death in cats.

Check out the Web site to find health warning signs and common health problems for cats.

There is plenty of information on the site for cat owners, as well as veterinarians and scientists.

The foundation will also increase funding for feline health research and the training of new scientists.

Monday, November 24, 2008

So where have you been?

A dachshund, missing for five years, has been reunited with its owners.

Here's the story from the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette.

Pictures of presidential pets

With all the interest in what kind of dog the Obamas will eventually get for the White House, the Washington Post has assembled a slideshow of presidential pets.

See it here.

There's even a horse or two.

And thanks to the Presidential Pet Museum, here's a list of, well, presidential pets.

Saturday, November 22, 2008

Sweet embraceable kitties

For all you cat lovers out there, here's a cuddly little video.

Friday, November 21, 2008

Tips on adopting a pet

A friend sent me an e-mail from the Mayor's Alliance for NYC's Animals, reminding people of 10 questions they should consider before adopting a pet.

Here they are:

1. Do you know that this particular breed/type of pet is right for you?
2. Are you ready to make a long-term commitment to your new pet?
3. Will you be responsible enough to provide your new pet with the appropriate food, attention and medical needs?
4. Do you travel or are you away from home often? If so, who will care for your new pet?
5. Can you spend quality time with your pet?
6. Is your home situation “pet-friendly”?
7. Are you economically stable and will be able to care for your pet?
8. Do you have other pets at home? If so, will they get along?
9. Who will the pet live with? Will your guests/family commit to the new pet as well? Do they suffer from allergies?
10. Do you have the time, energy and patience for a pet?

They are good questions, and something to think long and hard about. Getting a pet, especially at the holiday season, may not be the best of thing to do. Read No. 2 again.

Thursday, November 20, 2008

Ready for adoption


Here is the Dutchess County SPCA Pet of the Week — Ready for adoption. What are you waiting for?

This week's featured pet:
Emily — Lab mix
"Emily may be part lab, may be part Ridgeback and who knows what else. What we do know is that mixed breeds are usually the healthiest and most long-lived dogs and that shelter dogs make the best pets (Hello, White House!). Emily is a young female, very active and would do best in an active home."

The Dutchess County SPCA is located at 636 Violet Avenue, Hyde Park, NY 12538. The shelter is open Sunday, Monday, Friday and Saturday 11:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Tuesday and Thursday 11:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. Closed Wednesdays. Call 845-452-SPCA (7722). Browse our adoptable animals today!

Shelter pets rule.

Puppy watch

Economy got ya down? Got those post-election, what do I do now blues? Waiting for the ax to fall at work?

How about watching shiba inu puppies?

Click here for the webcam.

Wednesday, November 19, 2008

From where I sit ...

Take a look at this kitty sitting pretty.

Now if the owner could just get the cat to empty the dust bin!

Monday, November 17, 2008

Future first dog on hold, wisely

The president elect and his family will wait until after they move into the White House to get a dog.

Here's an Associated Press article.

First-lady-to-be Michelle Obama told CBS's "60 Minutes" that it wouldn't be a good idea to bring a dog into the mix during the transition.

That's a good call, I think. Nothing could be worse for the dog, or for the family for that matter, to have the extra worry about getting used to two drastically different situations in such a short period of time.

And they are still talking about getting a shelter dog. Good for them. I am certain that they will be able to get a pooch that will not aggravate Malia's allergies.

I'm not going to suggest medical intervention for the child; that would not be my place.

But I suffer from seasonal allergies and I take a medication that deals with it, preventing it from turning into something more serious, like asthma.

I'm sure the Obamas, as responsible parents, already know this. After all, they will soon have the best medical care in the entire world.

Friday, November 14, 2008

Free rabies clinic for Dutchess County residents Sunday

HOPEWELL JUNCTION — A free rabies clinic will be held from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday, hosted by the Dutchess County Department of Health in cooperation with the Dutchess County Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals.

The clinic will be at the East Fishkill Fire Training Center, 2502 Route 52.

Dutchess residents can obtain rabies shots free of charge for their dogs and cats, as well as domestic ferrets, at least 3 months of age. Non-residents will be charged $10 for each pet they have vaccinated.

All dogs must be on leashes. Cats and domestic ferrets must be in a carrier.

The vaccination will be good for three years for pets with prior immunization. For pets without proof of previous vaccination, it will be good for one year.

New York state requires rabies shots for all cats, dogs and domestic ferrets by the age of 4 months. Owners can be fined up to $200 if they fail to get pets vaccinated and keep them up-to-date.

Thursday, November 13, 2008

Duck!

We haven't had an "awwwwwwwww"-filled blog entry in a while, so here goes.

First, a snoring duck video.

Next, a pecking duck and a very patient dog video.

Finally, if you think puppies are cute and ducklings are cute, then how about a baby duck that follows a puppy around? Watch this video.

Boy, I'm exhausted from all the cuteness.

Tuesday, November 11, 2008

Sally's got a new home


HYDE PARK — Sally, the terrier mix found abandoned in a clothing donation bin, has been adopted and left the DCSPCA shelter for her new home today.

The dog was adopted by Paula Clausi-VanSteenburgh and her daughter Monica VanSteenburgh of Highland.

Sally was rescued from a bin in a Hyde Park shopping center Sept. 15 by humane law officers from the Dutchess County Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. A man who had been emptying the clothing bin alerted them to the situation.

The dog had been in the container without food or water for about a week.

“I’m so glad some good comes out of Sally’s circumstances,” Clausi-VanSteenburg said.

She worked with the dog on some basic obedience before taking her to her new home which has a pit bill mix named Pluto.

Monica VanSteenburgh said bringing Sally home will be a wonderful experience.

"Pluto will be so happy to have another dog to play with," she said.

DCSPCA Executive Director Joyce Garrity said Sally now weighs 36 pounds. When found, the dog weighed 16 pounds.

Garrity was pleased Sally is now in a good home.

“If you were going to write the ending, this couldn’t be better,” she said.

"Today is really a very special day for a really special dog that started in a tragic, horrific way," Garrity said.

She said she thinks Sally will have a wonderful future with her new family.

"And she'll have her own 12-year-old girl to play with," Garrity said.

Monday, November 10, 2008

More on the future first canine

President-Elect Barack Obama's press conference Friday showed just how important the question is about his family getting a dog.

See a clip of Obama speaking on the issue here.

The Washington Post chimes in with a photo gallery of pooches that might fit the hypo-allergenic bill for daughter Malia.

As as far as the future leader of the free world being a "mutt," so can your dog, Mr. President-Elect.

Thursday, November 6, 2008

Ready for adoption


Here is the Dutchess County SPCA Pet of the Week — Ready for adoption. What are you waiting for?

This week's featured pet:
Chloe — Terrier mix
"A mom's life can be very discouraging sometimes. You've seen your brood grow up and get adopted and you're left holding the empty nest. Chloe came into the shelter as part of a Humane Law seizure, very pregnant, delivered a litter of eight beautiful pups, and we made sure they got into great homes. Now it is time for this sweet gentle terrier female to find a warm, comfortable, quiet place to live."

The Dutchess County SPCA is located at 636 Violet Avenue, Hyde Park, NY 12538. The shelter is open Sunday, Monday, Friday and Saturday 11:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Tuesday and Thursday 11:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. Closed Wednesdays. Call 845-452-SPCA (7722). Browse our adoptable animals today!

Shelter pets rule.

New addition to the future first family?

Now that the pesky election is behind us, it is time to focus on what really matters.

What kind of dog will the Obamas have in the White House?

As I wrote yesterday, the president-elect said in his victory speech Tuesday he would make good on his promise to his two daughters to get them a dog.

Everyone is now weighing in on the matter.

I think he should get a pit bull and name it Sarah, but that ain't gonna happen.

The Mercury News said the Obamas will get a shelter dog, but USA Today said they will consider getting a rescue. You can see the articles via the links provided.

The Chicago Sun-Times said the American Kennel Club is coming up with various pure bred suggestions, focusing on hairless breeds like the Chinese Crested, which would be good for daughter Malia Obama, who has asthma.

And some newspapers are soliciting suggestions for the first family-elect, like the San Francisco Chronicle. One reader said the dog should be named Maverick. Ha.

Personally, I think the right thing — which would send the right message — is for the Obama's to take their time and explore getting a pooch from a rescue group that deals with hypo-allergenic breeds — pure and mixed.

I can't imagine them being able to go to shelter after shelter looking for the right dog; the demands on all of them are just beginning and will only get worse through Jan. 20. Working with a rescue group would enable the right match to be made and would avoid puppy mills.

Good luck to the Obamas. That will be one really lucky puppy.

Wednesday, November 5, 2008

Pet rumors dog Obama

With Barack Obama's victory only a few hours old, already there are rumors about who will be appointed to serve in his administration.

The only clear indication of a White House post is Obama's promise to his daughters, Sasha and Malia, to get them a dog.

Here is a Reuter's article on that issue.

“Sasha and Malia, I love you both more than you can imagine. And you have earned the new puppy that’s coming with us,” Obama said at the start of his victory speech.

I'm hoping that the president-elect and his family will consider a rescue and not go the puppy mill route.

You are under the spotlight now, Mr. President-Elect.

Tuesday, November 4, 2008

Monday, November 3, 2008

Cure for election jitters? Cute babies!

OK people, I know you all have some real decisions to make by tomorrow. I hope the stress of shaping the future of our country hasn't gotten to you yet.

Well, how about taking a break, catching your breath and watching a couple of videos?

You can choose to watch a video with a big old pile of kitties by clicking here.

Or you can choose to watch a video with a bunch of golden retriever puppies by clicking here.

And if the thought of making yet another choice makes you crazy, just watch both of them.

You'll be glad you did.

Friday, October 31, 2008

Lab experiment?

This Sunday in the Poughkeepsie Journal, my colleague and syndicated columnist Kathy Norton, who like to poke fun at people who pamper their pets, will admit she has finally found a pooch she would love to spoil.

I know it's Halloween, and it's not nice to really, really, really scare people, but it's true: Norton has fallen for a black lab.

Here's a teaser from her "Boomer Gal" column:
I don't have a cat or dog, but I know how easy it is to get carried away. A black lab named Buddy swept me off my feet just last week.

Before I knew it, his owners had moved a notch down on my Christmas shopping list so I could make room for their dog.

I found myself wondering: Is it too pushy to give a holiday gift to a pet you've just met?

And if it's OK, what would that sweet darling with the clammy nose like this year?
You can find Kathy's column online or on the front page of the Life section Sunday.

After Sunday, you can find it here.

Thursday, October 30, 2008

Ready for adoption — video edition



Here is the Dutchess County SPCA Pet of the Week — Ready for adoption. What are you waiting for?

This week's featured pet:
Shadow — Domestic shorthair
"When an animal is suddenly given up by their owners, its stability and sense of security is destroyed. It can take a bit of time to recover that courage. We spend many hours working with recently displaced pets, making their transition from home to shelter, and hopefully soon back into another home, relatively seamless. Shadow is just one of many that fit this category. This 2-year-old longhair has made the first step, you can help with the second. Shadow's ideal home is where she can be an only pet."


The Dutchess County SPCA is located at 636 Violet Avenue, Hyde Park, NY 12538. The shelter is open Sunday, Monday, Friday and Saturday 11:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Tuesday and Thursday 11:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. Closed Wednesdays. Call 845-452-SPCA (7722). Browse our adoptable animals today!

Shelter pets rule.

Wednesday, October 29, 2008

Does your dog look presidential?

The winners of the "My Dog Looks Like Obama or McCain" Dog-Look-Alike Photo Contest have been announced.

The Obama Look-a-Like winner, Amore Francine, is a one-and-1/2 year old boxer from Mt. Clemens, Mich. The McCain Look-a-Like winner, Ginny Doll of Rochester Hills, Mich., is a 2-year old Maltese.

The winning photos, along with more information about each dog and the contest, are available here.

Kate was going to enter, but she but Christine Todd Whitman wasn't running.

Update on Sally's alleged abuser

The City of Poughkeepsie man who allegedly starved then tossed the dog now known as Sally into a clothing donation bin pleaded not guilty today in the City of Poughkeepsie court to one count of misdemeanor animal cruelty.

Through his attorney, Garry Lee Rhodes, 28, entered a not guilty plea for failure to provide proper sustenance and medical care to the dog.

Rhodes remains on electronic monitoring, and could be subject to a $10,000 fine if he violates house arrest.

For more on the story, click here.

Where's your retirement fund? In Kongs?

The Associated Press has an article about pet owners not cutting back on spending for their companion animals during increasingly tough economic times.

According to the American Pet Products Association, Americans will spend an estimated $43.4 billion this year on everything from treats to training for their pets — 26 percent higher than in 2004.
"Backing that up is a poll earlier this year in ShopSmart, a publication from Consumer Reports, which says female shoppers are more likely to buy cheaper brands of everything from medication to milk, but are digging in their heels when it comes to switching to less-expensive pet food and personal care items.

"Some parts of the pet food industry, particularly gourmet and organic pet food, will likely be even more insulated than the sellers of pet carriers, clothing and outdoor gear."

The food I can understand. Kate doesn't do well over the long term on any food that contains corn-based products so I've had to switch her permanently to a veterinarian-prescribed, and pricey, food.

And with the recent spate of pet-food recalls (see this one from yesterday), it makes even more sense that people are hesitant to switch pet diets.

But I was feeling extravagent a couple of weeks ago when I bought Kate a new bed from BJ's to replace one that was several years old — and looked it.

Tuesday, October 28, 2008

Sally's alleged abuser under electronic surveillance

HYDE PARK — The City of Poughkeepsie man accused of leaving his dog for dead in a clothing bin will be electronically monitored until his next court appearance.

District Attorney William Grady said Garry Lee Rhodes, 28, gave a false home address and was considered a flight risk.

"We asked the court to revoke his ROR (released on own recognizance) status and recommended $5,000 bail," Grady said.

Rhodes was appearing in the Town of Hyde Park Court Tuesday. He is charged with one count each of torturing/not feeding an animal, abandonment of a disabled animal and neglect of an impounded animal, all misdemeanors in violation of state Agriculture and Markets Law.

Justice David Steinberg imposed electronic monitoring, using an ankle bracelet, as a condition of release.

"He (Rhodes) was admonished by the judge that if he absconds, he will be immediately arrested and bail would be set at $5,000," Grady said.

Rhodes is scheduled to appear Wednesday morning in City of Poughkeepsie Court to be arraigned on one count of failure to provide sustenance, a misdemeanor under state Agriculture and Markets Law.

Joyce Garrity, executive director of the Dutchess County Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, said she was pleased with the results of the court appearance today.

"We will soon be seeing justice for Sally," she said.

The terrier mix is currently living at the Hyde Park shelter.

"We are being careful about finding a home for her," Garrity said.

She said anyone interested in adopting her should contact her directly at the shelter.

Contact information can be found on the DCSPCA's Web site.

Halloween comics from 'Mutts'

Patrick McDonnell is doing a week of spooky comics in his daily strip "Mutts."

Here's a link to the Washington Post Web site. Be sure and see the Monday's and all the rest throughout the week.

RECALL: Special Kitty dry food

UPI.com is reporting that Special Kitty-brand gourmet blend dry cat food sold by Wal-Mart stores, including those in New York, New Jersey and Connecticut, has been recalled due to potential salmonella contamination.

Here's UPI.com's article.

The food was sold in 3.5 pound, 7 pound and 18 pound bags, with a use-by date of Aug. 11, 2009.

Manufacturer Mars Petcare US Inc. can be contacted with questions at 877-568-4463 or their Web site.

So ... what's in the box?

Scary video clip here.

Gotcha!

Monday, October 27, 2008

Costume contests?

In response to a comment asking if there were any Halloween costume contests for pets this year, petco.com is having an online contest which you can find here.

Does anyone else know of anything that's going on this week?

Let us know.

It's that time of year again for ghosts and goblins


Halloween is this Friday. Boo! (Did I scare ya?)

Thankfully, the people across the street disconnected that spooky sound machine that plays scary noises every time you walk by, even if you are on the opposite sidewalk. Last year that got really old, really fast, especially late at night for Kate's last piddle of the day.

We should all remember that somethings in the Halloween festivities don't necessarily mix with your pets.

Costumes for one.

According to the people at petstress.com (I'm assuming they try to alleviate or prevent it, not that you can order stress from them for your pet), costumes should be chosen with a few things in mind.

Make sure it's comfortable for the pet and that it doesn't constrict or bind them in any way. Also be sure to choose or make a costume that the little critter can't chew on and swallow parts.

Remember that chocolate is bad for pets, as is the artificial sweetener xylitol. Keep all Halloween candy out of reach of interested wet noses.

Decorations should be kept out of harm's way — or Fido's or Fluffy's for that matter. Burning candles = bad. Electrical cords, too.

And if your pets get too excited when the doorbell rings, why not put them in a quiet area of the house until all the Trick-or-Treaters have been treated. This is even a better idea if your pet likes to dash through an open door.

Here is a link to the complete list of suggestions.

Happy Halloween! Boo! (Did I scare you that time?)

Saturday, October 25, 2008

Never looked more natural


Since I believe strongly in allowing dogs to be dogs — it's all about dignity, people — I made a commitment that if I ask Kate to do something stooopid then I should suffer the consequences as well.

Yesterday, I posted a picture of Kate wearing devil's horns. Turnabout, and all that.

I made this vow last year after I took this picture of Kate.

Here was my commitment in action.

Friday, October 24, 2008

Lil devil


Kate's ready for Halloween.

She's not too happy about it, though.

Somehow the horns managed to stay put long enough to take this picture.

Thursday, October 23, 2008

Shelter dogs rule

Since this is "Adopt A Shelter Dog" month, here are some pictures of pooches in shelters from around the United States.

Click here for the photo gallery and a link to a story.

I got Kate from the SPCA on the upper East Side of Manhattan and she's worked out fine.

Took two visits until I found her, so don't give up.

Ready for adoption


Here is the Dutchess County SPCA Pet of the Week — Ready for adoption. What are you waiting for?

This week's featured pet:
Brandy — Collie mix
"Looking for something to try and ease the pain of a bad day? Try a little Brandy. Our version is alcohol-free and the only guilt you will have is when you stop petting her. This female collie mix would be great for seniors or a person living alone who is looking for some stimulating conversation."

The Dutchess County SPCA is located at 636 Violet Avenue, Hyde Park, NY 12538. The shelter is open Sunday, Monday, Friday and Saturday 11:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Tuesday and Thursday 11:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. Closed Wednesdays. Call 845-452-SPCA (7722). Browse our adoptable animals today!

Shelter pets rule.

Wednesday, October 22, 2008

What's in a name?

The Chicago Tribune has a list of the most unusual pet names, as found by Veterinary Pet Insurance company.

Here's the whole article.

Some highlights:

For dogs, the most unusual names were RushLimbark and Sirius Lee Handsome. One of the funniest, at least to me, is Peanut Wigglebutt, the name of a dachshund who wags her tail so much she falls over.

For cats, the most unusual names were Edward Scissorpaws and Sir Lix-a-lot, though Toot Uncommon was my favorite.

For more unusual names, visit VPI's Web site.

Saturday, October 18, 2008

Nothin' cuter than a baby panda

Let's face it. Chinese pandas are the best.

Here's a baby trying to play with a ball.

Friday, October 17, 2008

Feel good story of the week

Fourteen months after taking off to chase a cat, a microchipped dog has been reunited with his owner.

The story, from the Mercury News in San Jose, Calif., can been seen here.

Owner Cheryl Chaudhary's dog Sai took off after a cat in Watsonville and looked back.

The Jack Russell had stayed in the area, but Chaudhary had moved away.
Because of the microchip, Chaudhary said she never gave up hope. And that's the only reason she got Sai back, said [Santa Cruz County Animal Services Tricia] Geisreiter. Sai had a collar but no tags when he was found. The device costs $15 including a registration fee and is easily injected under the skin with a syringe.
Speaks well for microchipping, but also about the importance of having tags on the collar.

While living in Shekomeko, I was walking to the mailbox and found a woman putting a missing dog flier in it. The dog had gotten out of the fenced in yard by accident and was lost.

I asked her if the dog had tags on it, and she said no. "He never gets out," the woman said.

Guess he did.

Thursday, October 16, 2008

Ready for adoption — video edition



Here is the Dutchess County SPCA Pet of the Week — Ready for adoption. What are you waiting for?

This week's featured pet:
Grey — Domestic shorthair
"This low maintenance girl sure is easy to please! A good seat next to the food dish and a leg to rub against is all it takes to keep her happy. Declawed 9-year-old grey shorthair, slightly larger in size, would sure love to bum around in a home of her own."


The Dutchess County SPCA is located at 636 Violet Avenue, Hyde Park, NY 12538. The shelter is open Sunday, Monday, Friday and Saturday 11:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Tuesday and Thursday 11:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. Closed Wednesdays. Call 845-452-SPCA (7722). Browse our adoptable animals today!

Shelter pets rule.

Wednesday, October 15, 2008

Homeowners still being forced to give up pets

A story out of Wisconsin tells of more and more animals being surrendered to shelters because their owners are losing their homes.

The whole article from the Baraboo News Republic can be read here.

The Sauk County Humane Society has 60 more cats this year than at the same time last year. They are up to over 100 right now.

As a result of the high number of surrenders, the Sauk County Humane Society is now offering adult cats for $10 to adopters. All cats have their required vaccinations, and a litter box, scooper and bag of food is included with an adoption.

Humane Societies in other locations also have resorted to such unconventional promotions in an effort to get cats new homes. In Boise, Idaho, for example, about 200 cats were recently offered with their adoption fees waived in order to relieve the shelter from an influx of cats because of hard economic times.

I've been writing about this for a while now. When is it going to get better?

Tuesday, October 14, 2008

Can't we all get along? Pre-election version

Maybe McCain and Obama could take a lesson from this cat and dog.

Here's the video.

Monday, October 13, 2008

Midday funny

Here's a cute comic from Speed Bump by David Coverly.

If you are read this on any day other than Monday, choose Oct. 13, 2008, from the pull-down date selector.

New law for Pa. puppy mills

Looks like Pennsylvania will join Virginia, Louisiana and Arizona in cracking down on puppy mills.

A recently enacted law ups the standards on commercial kennels, including twice-yearly veterinary exams (at minimum), larger cages and exercise requirements.

Virginia and Louisiana limit the number of dogs that can be housed in kennels, and Arizona law enforcement officials can now fine against anyone caught selling animals along public roads or in public parks in urban counties.

From the article, which you can read in its entirety here:

The new law in Pennsylvania targets about 650 large-scale commercial breeders, or roughly one-quarter of the state's 2,600 licensed kennels, that sell any dogs to dealers and pet shops or traffic in at least 60 dogs per year. Violators would be subject to both criminal and civil penalties.

The law also gives dog wardens the authority to act on alleged violations, a power previously given only to police and humane officers. Also, only veterinarians will be allowed to euthanize dogs in commercial breeding kennels.

The law took on new urgency in August, when 80 dogs in two eastern Pennsylvania kennels were shot 80 dogs by their owners after being ordered to let veterinarians examine some of them.

Friday, October 10, 2008

Thursday, October 9, 2008

Ready for adoption — video edition



Here is the Dutchess County SPCA Pet of the Week — Ready for adoption. What are you waiting for?

This week's featured pet:
Canela — Terrier/boxer mix
"Fawn colored body. Black muzzle. Looks like this female terrier mix stuck her nose in someplace it shouldn't have been. The right place to stick her nose in would be around the playground as this young girl has plenty of energy and loves to walk, sit, fetch, play. Watch the video and see Canela play fetch on the new zip line at the shelter!"


The Dutchess County SPCA is located at 636 Violet Avenue, Hyde Park, NY 12538. The shelter is open Sunday, Monday, Friday and Saturday 11:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Tuesday and Thursday 11:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. Closed Wednesdays. Call 845-452-SPCA (7722). Browse our adoptable animals today!

Shelter pets rule.

Tuesday, October 7, 2008

Sally's alleged abuser released on own recognizance

HYDE PARK — According to reporter Christine Pizzuti, a City of Poughkeepsie man accused of leaving his dog for dead in a clothing donation bin last month was released on his own recognizance after he pleaded not guilty on all charges at his arraignment in Hyde Park court tonight.

Gary Lee Rhodes, 28, was charged with one count each of torturing/not feeding an animal, abandonment of a disabled animal and neglect of an impounded animal, misdemeanors in violation of state Agriculture and Markets Law.

Assistant District Attorney Heather Ryan said Rhodes had been convicted of two DWIs — one in 2003, the other in 2005.

She said Rhodes had two prior failures to appear in court, and there were bench warrants issued both times.

Public defender Thomas Angell said said Rhodes will have to find new defense, since someone in his office has opted to adopt the dog, posing a conflict of interest.

Ryan asked for bail at $1,000, but the judge let Rhodes go on his own recognizance, to reappear Oct. 28 at 9:30 a.m.

Monday, October 6, 2008

Journal covers animals related events Sunday

The Poughkeepsie Journal went to the dogs — and cats and at least one rabbit — today. Well, at least the front page of the Mid-Hudson section did.

And as one of my colleagues noted, neither of the stories was mine.

The first story is by Christine Pizzuti and is about an Ulster County Sheriff's Office K-9 who is retiring after nine years of service.

Here's a picture of the retiree with Undersheriff Frank Faluotico.


The second story is by Rasheed Oluwa and is about the blessing of the animals at Hyde Park United Methodist Church. This is the third year the church has held the ceremony to commemorate the death of St. Francis of Assisi.

There is a nice photo gallery by Karl Rabe, too. Be sure and check them out.

See what happens when I take a weekend off?

(Photo by Christine Pizzuti/Poughkeepsie Journal)