Monday, October 31, 2011
Sunday, October 30, 2011
County Animal Control Staffed By Underqualified, Overpaid Incompetents
County health department whistleblower Dr. Helen Kamp just wants to make sure county animals have good lives, like this dog does.
Dr. Helen Kamp did not phrase her complaints in such strong language when she resigned from her job as a veterinarian in the animal control department at the St. Louis County Department of Health last June, nor did she do so at a county council meeting last month where she reiterated her concerns.
But the message was still pretty clear.
At its worst, Kamp believes the incompetence of her former colleagues in the Department of Health led to the death of one county resident. And even at its most benign, Kamp says it led to the hiring of underqualified supervisors at highly inflated salaries and the resignation or early retirement of Kamp and nine other long-term employees. Kamp herself had worked in the department for eight years.
In her speech to the county council on October 19, Kamp alleged that a woman had been killed by her son's rabid German shepherd in January 2007.
"Another tragedy is that this death may have been prevented had a clerk at animal control done her job," Kamp told the council. "About three weeks prior, the woman had been attacked the first time by this dog, she was treated at St. Anthony's Hospital and a bite report was faxed from the hospital to animal control, as is normal procedure for dog bites. The clerk responsible for the bite reports did not act on this case.
"Had she done her job the dog would have been brought to the shelter for a ten-day quarantine observation for rabies. It is possible the owner would have decided to have the dog euthanized at the end of quarantine as is often the result in these bit cases. The dynamics may have changed dramatically and the death prevented."
Why did Kamp wait more than three years to bring this to the attention of the county council?
"I was worried about retaliation," she tells Daily RFT. "I didn't think I could bring up things, especially the death of the woman. Now [that I've resigned] I can voice my own opinion. But if it were run properly, I would still be there."
Kamp claims that much of the incompetence in the county health department, particularly animal control, stems from fact that many of the supervisors did not have the necessary experience for their jobs. For example, she told the council, the department advertised last winter for a vector/animal control supervisor. The position required applicants have a Bachelor of Science degree, two years of experience in both vector and animal control and one year of supervisory experience.
"The applicant hired had no college degree, no vector experience and no supervisory experience in his nine year history with the county," Kamp told the council. "I had requested disciplinary action by the program manager be taken with this employee for not following my explicit written instructions regarding euthanasia lists during my absence. None was taken, but then shortly afterwards he was promoted to supervisor."
As Helena Servis, a friend of Kamp's, noted at the council meeting, a program manager for animal and vector control earns a base salary "in excess of $82,000. Add to that the customary benefit package and we believe the total compensation will add up to well over $100,000 a year."
Servis added that she was concerned about the cost to taxpayers of having unqualified people in such lucrative positions.
Kamp claims that another employee was only hired after he filed a formal complaint. "It was brought to a hearing by the civil service commission," she says. "They hired [him] to make the problem go away."
Kamp is concerned that the incompetency in the health department may affect the health and well-being of the dogs that are held in county shelters. To get around the three-minute limit for speeches by citizens at county council, Kamp asked another friend, Janet Banks, to address that point at the meeting. (Banks is part of a group that protests at local pet stores that sells animals from kennels. See "Pet Peeves," February 4, 2009.)
Banks questioned Vector Control and Veterinary Services Program Manager Rebecca Smail's assertion that the understaffed and overcrowded county animal shelters were "inhospitable" to volunteers.
"If the shelters are not at 'appropriately hospitable letters for volunteers,'" Banks asked, quoting an email from Smail, "what is the chance that the shelters are providing appropriate care for animals?"
Smail said that the shelter animals are currently exercised twice a week. "That means that animals remain in their cages for five days a week without exercise, socialization or enrichment," Banks said. "Animals left in their cages suffer great stress, often developing behavior issues. This greatly lessens their change for adoption. Caging animals for long periods of time is indicative of a puppy mill environment."
The county is currently renovating a shelter in Olivette that will replace the two existing shelters in Florissant and Ladue. But Kamp is concerned that the new shelter will not improve conditions for the animals.
"A new shelter with mismanagement on the inside isn't any better than the facility now," she says. "It's a new facility with inept employees."
Another area of concern for Kamp is the department time clocks, which make it easy for employees to "steal" time.
"Animal control has shifts that are not nine to five," she says. "The supervisor can't see everyone clock in and out. Since 2003 I've been requesting new time clocks. Two years ago they installed clocks without date stamps. They're very easy to get around. The department ordered thumbprint clocks in November, 2009. They were still sitting in a warehouse in Clayton when I left in June."
Kamp says she reported all these concerns in her exit interview in June and went to the county council in October to see if any progress was being made. The timing of her speech was not politically motivated, she adds. (County Executive Charlie Dooley was then facing a tough challenge for his reelection; Dooley ultimately prevailed.) "It just happened to correlate with the election," she says.
To demonstrate her seriousness, Kamp returned to county council last Tuesday, November 16, to see if any progress had been made. Councilwoman Colleen Wasinger said the county has launched an investigation into Kamp's claims.
"To the best of my knowledge, everything has been done according to proper procedure," Dr. Dolores Gunn, director of the St. Louis County Department of Health, tells Daily RFT. "But any time a citizen raises concerns about the Department of Health, we take them seriously. We look at the program. We have a third party look at the program. We're in the process of that now."
Kamp tells Daily RFT that she's going to wait and see if the investigation leads to any changes. "Enough time has gone by," she says. "It would have been nice to have stayed there and worked in the new facility, but not the way it's being done. I really feel I could have done something."
Dr. Helen Kamp did not phrase her complaints in such strong language when she resigned from her job as a veterinarian in the animal control department at the St. Louis County Department of Health last June, nor did she do so at a county council meeting last month where she reiterated her concerns.
But the message was still pretty clear.
At its worst, Kamp believes the incompetence of her former colleagues in the Department of Health led to the death of one county resident. And even at its most benign, Kamp says it led to the hiring of underqualified supervisors at highly inflated salaries and the resignation or early retirement of Kamp and nine other long-term employees. Kamp herself had worked in the department for eight years.
In her speech to the county council on October 19, Kamp alleged that a woman had been killed by her son's rabid German shepherd in January 2007.
"Another tragedy is that this death may have been prevented had a clerk at animal control done her job," Kamp told the council. "About three weeks prior, the woman had been attacked the first time by this dog, she was treated at St. Anthony's Hospital and a bite report was faxed from the hospital to animal control, as is normal procedure for dog bites. The clerk responsible for the bite reports did not act on this case.
"Had she done her job the dog would have been brought to the shelter for a ten-day quarantine observation for rabies. It is possible the owner would have decided to have the dog euthanized at the end of quarantine as is often the result in these bit cases. The dynamics may have changed dramatically and the death prevented."
Why did Kamp wait more than three years to bring this to the attention of the county council?
"I was worried about retaliation," she tells Daily RFT. "I didn't think I could bring up things, especially the death of the woman. Now [that I've resigned] I can voice my own opinion. But if it were run properly, I would still be there."
Kamp claims that much of the incompetence in the county health department, particularly animal control, stems from fact that many of the supervisors did not have the necessary experience for their jobs. For example, she told the council, the department advertised last winter for a vector/animal control supervisor. The position required applicants have a Bachelor of Science degree, two years of experience in both vector and animal control and one year of supervisory experience.
"The applicant hired had no college degree, no vector experience and no supervisory experience in his nine year history with the county," Kamp told the council. "I had requested disciplinary action by the program manager be taken with this employee for not following my explicit written instructions regarding euthanasia lists during my absence. None was taken, but then shortly afterwards he was promoted to supervisor."
As Helena Servis, a friend of Kamp's, noted at the council meeting, a program manager for animal and vector control earns a base salary "in excess of $82,000. Add to that the customary benefit package and we believe the total compensation will add up to well over $100,000 a year."
Servis added that she was concerned about the cost to taxpayers of having unqualified people in such lucrative positions.
Kamp claims that another employee was only hired after he filed a formal complaint. "It was brought to a hearing by the civil service commission," she says. "They hired [him] to make the problem go away."
Kamp is concerned that the incompetency in the health department may affect the health and well-being of the dogs that are held in county shelters. To get around the three-minute limit for speeches by citizens at county council, Kamp asked another friend, Janet Banks, to address that point at the meeting. (Banks is part of a group that protests at local pet stores that sells animals from kennels. See "Pet Peeves," February 4, 2009.)
Banks questioned Vector Control and Veterinary Services Program Manager Rebecca Smail's assertion that the understaffed and overcrowded county animal shelters were "inhospitable" to volunteers.
"If the shelters are not at 'appropriately hospitable letters for volunteers,'" Banks asked, quoting an email from Smail, "what is the chance that the shelters are providing appropriate care for animals?"
Smail said that the shelter animals are currently exercised twice a week. "That means that animals remain in their cages for five days a week without exercise, socialization or enrichment," Banks said. "Animals left in their cages suffer great stress, often developing behavior issues. This greatly lessens their change for adoption. Caging animals for long periods of time is indicative of a puppy mill environment."
The county is currently renovating a shelter in Olivette that will replace the two existing shelters in Florissant and Ladue. But Kamp is concerned that the new shelter will not improve conditions for the animals.
"A new shelter with mismanagement on the inside isn't any better than the facility now," she says. "It's a new facility with inept employees."
Another area of concern for Kamp is the department time clocks, which make it easy for employees to "steal" time.
"Animal control has shifts that are not nine to five," she says. "The supervisor can't see everyone clock in and out. Since 2003 I've been requesting new time clocks. Two years ago they installed clocks without date stamps. They're very easy to get around. The department ordered thumbprint clocks in November, 2009. They were still sitting in a warehouse in Clayton when I left in June."
Kamp says she reported all these concerns in her exit interview in June and went to the county council in October to see if any progress was being made. The timing of her speech was not politically motivated, she adds. (County Executive Charlie Dooley was then facing a tough challenge for his reelection; Dooley ultimately prevailed.) "It just happened to correlate with the election," she says.
To demonstrate her seriousness, Kamp returned to county council last Tuesday, November 16, to see if any progress had been made. Councilwoman Colleen Wasinger said the county has launched an investigation into Kamp's claims.
"To the best of my knowledge, everything has been done according to proper procedure," Dr. Dolores Gunn, director of the St. Louis County Department of Health, tells Daily RFT. "But any time a citizen raises concerns about the Department of Health, we take them seriously. We look at the program. We have a third party look at the program. We're in the process of that now."
Kamp tells Daily RFT that she's going to wait and see if the investigation leads to any changes. "Enough time has gone by," she says. "It would have been nice to have stayed there and worked in the new facility, but not the way it's being done. I really feel I could have done something."
Friday, October 28, 2011
Taken off Happy At Home
Important FRAUD Alert!An ex-employee, Javonni Burchett (AKA Jai Burchett), who was fired by the Board of Home AloneTM (now Happy At HomeTM) in June of 2009 for engaging in unethical behavior, theft, and animal abuse, is currently (as recently as April 2011!) distributing flyers advertising a for-profit pet sitting service, using the name Home Alone Pet Care Services (our registered DBA) and our trademarked pink and blue pup-n-pillow logo.
Ms. Burchett, pictured at left, who has a history of mental illness, may still be using the phones she stole from Home AloneTM (now Happy At HomeTM), the numbers for which were listed in our ad in the 2009 Bowling Green/Warren County KY directory, as her contact numbers to further perpetrate her fraudulent use of our agency's name and logo. She may also still be employing her sister, Jana Curtis, also pictured at left, a convicted drug felon. Both women had been employees of the former for-profit pet sitting service bought out by Home AloneTM (now Happy At HomeTM) in March of 2009.
While these violations of ethical standards and business and trademark laws are distressing to us, what is even more distressing is that we learned in 2010 that Ms. Burchett's family was granted an Emergency Protection Order against her due to a brutal physical attack she made upon her frail, elderly father, who died soon after the attack in the spring of 2010. Additionally, she has continued to make threats to burn down the homes of Home Alone's Board members, and to harm or kill them and their family members and pets. But most disturbing of all, Ms. Burchett has stated that she intends to harm or kill clients' pets while pretending to represent Home AloneTM in order to discredit us.
We have reported these violations and threats to local law enforcement (which is how we learned of the EPO), and we have been asked to advise any clients who are contacted by Ms. Burchett to avoid confronting her, and to report the contact immediately -- to the Bowling Green Police, if you live within city limits, or to the Warren County Sheriff if outside the city. If you do not wish to contact law enforcement yourself, then we urge you to please contact us immediately at 502-644-5901, and we will report it to the appropriate law enforcement agency on your behalf.
Thank you for your cooperation. We sincerely apologize for any distress or inconvenience this unfortunate situation may still be causing you, and we assure you that we are doing everything we can to protect you and your pet's safety. Please feel free to contact us if you have any questions, comments, or concerns. Thank you!
Thursday, October 27, 2011
Wednesday, October 26, 2011
St Louis Pet Expo
The St. Louis Pet Expo is a woofing, chirping, and meowing good time for the whole family! Four-legged friends can receive "spa treatments" from local groomers, sample delicious treats, and try on the latest in furry fashions; their humans will enjoy interacting with top trainers and learning pet-care tips from animal welfare organizations.
Rounding out the list of activities is an agility demonstration, pet talent and costume shows, and an exciting pet/owner look-alike contest!
The highlight of the event is definitely the adoptable animals showcased by area non-profit rescue groups-- who knows, you may just come home with a new family member!
The St. Louis Pet Expo is a woofing, chirping, and meowing good time for the whole family! Four-legged friends can receive "spa treatments" from local groomers, sample delicious treats, and try on the latest in furry fashions; their humans will enjoy interacting with top trainers and learning pet-care tips from animal welfare organizations.
Rounding out the list of activities is an agility demonstration, pet talent and costume shows, and an exciting pet/owner look-alike contest!
The highlight of the event is definitely the adoptable animals showcased by area non-profit rescue groups-- who knows, you may just come home with a new family member!
Tuesday, October 25, 2011
RECENT PROGRESS TOWARD BANNING THE RETAIL SALE OF PETS AND FIGHTING PUPPY MILLS:
1. ASPCA Applauds Jacks Pets for No Longer Selling Puppies
http://www.aspca.org/news/aspca-applauds-jacks-pets-for-no-longer-selling-puppies
2. 70 Malls Across US Banning the Sale of Pets
Dear Fellow Animal-Welfare Advocates,
This is really big news! Macerich, a US shopping center developer with 70 malls across the US (including Southern Hills in Sioux City, Lindale in Cedar Rapids and Southridge in Des Moines) is banning the sale of pets in their malls. Here is a link to the story: Breaking News.
Here is a link to the Macerich website. If you have time please send them a Thank You! Send a brief note to their Executive Vice President of Real Estate, Randy Brant, at randy.brant@macerich.com. Please also show your support by frequenting these malls when possible.
This is very important and will no doubt have a domino effect on other malls. Those malls that currently allow pet sales need to hear from us; the public. We must tell them in words and with our shopping dollars that we will not support them as long as they allow the sale of pets.
If you know of a store that sells puppies, please print this news article and deliver it to them along with a respectful request to ban pet sales.
This is one of the best ways to fix the puppy mill problem....eliminate the outlet! Very good news!!
Mary LaHay, President
Iowa Voters for Companion Animals
3. Petland Halts Sale of Puppies and Kittens in All 37 Stores in Canada
http://www.torontosun.com/2011/09/21/council-cuts-off-puppy-mills
4. Toronto Bans Sale of Dogs and Cats http://www.torontosun.com/2011/09/21/council-cuts-off-puppy-mills
5. Irvine, CA Bans Sale of Dogs, Cats
http://www.ocregister.com/news/irvine-321520-animals-pet.html
Toronto and Irivine join the following jurisdictions that have passed a ban on the retail sale of pets:
Albuquerque, New Mexico Passed June 2006; Effective August 2007
Austin, Texas Passed December 2010; Effective December 2010
Coral Gables, Florida Applies to dogs only
El Paso, Texas Passed October 2010; Effective January 2011
Flagler Beach, Florida Applies to all animals, prohibits sales and breeding
Fountain, Colorado Passed May 2011; Effective May 2011
Glendale, California Passed August 2011; Effective September 2011*
*Pet sellers given 1 year to come into compliance (September 2012)
Hemosa Beach, Florida Passed March 2010; Effective April 2010
Lake Worth, Florida Passed February 2011; Effective February 2011
Lauderdale Lakes, Florida Applies to dogs only
North Bay Village, Florida Applies to dogs only
Opa-Locka, Florida Applies to dogs only
Richmond, British Columbia Passed November 2010; Effective April 2011
South Lake Tahoe, California Passed April 2009; Effective May 2009**
**Pet sellers given 2 years to come into compliance (May 2011)
West Hollywood, California Passed February 2010; Effective March 2010
Wentzville, MO Alderman Nick Guccione attempted to pass a ban in 2010 but it failed. He is running for mayor in 2012. More and more our elected officials are concerned about animal welfare. Nick is a dynamic man who would make a fabulous mayor !!!
1. ASPCA Applauds Jacks Pets for No Longer Selling Puppies
http://www.aspca.org/news/aspca-applauds-jacks-pets-for-no-longer-selling-puppies
2. 70 Malls Across US Banning the Sale of Pets
Dear Fellow Animal-Welfare Advocates,
This is really big news! Macerich, a US shopping center developer with 70 malls across the US (including Southern Hills in Sioux City, Lindale in Cedar Rapids and Southridge in Des Moines) is banning the sale of pets in their malls. Here is a link to the story: Breaking News.
Here is a link to the Macerich website. If you have time please send them a Thank You! Send a brief note to their Executive Vice President of Real Estate, Randy Brant, at randy.brant@macerich.com. Please also show your support by frequenting these malls when possible.
This is very important and will no doubt have a domino effect on other malls. Those malls that currently allow pet sales need to hear from us; the public. We must tell them in words and with our shopping dollars that we will not support them as long as they allow the sale of pets.
If you know of a store that sells puppies, please print this news article and deliver it to them along with a respectful request to ban pet sales.
This is one of the best ways to fix the puppy mill problem....eliminate the outlet! Very good news!!
Mary LaHay, President
Iowa Voters for Companion Animals
3. Petland Halts Sale of Puppies and Kittens in All 37 Stores in Canada
http://www.torontosun.com/2011/09/21/council-cuts-off-puppy-mills
4. Toronto Bans Sale of Dogs and Cats http://www.torontosun.com/2011/09/21/council-cuts-off-puppy-mills
5. Irvine, CA Bans Sale of Dogs, Cats
http://www.ocregister.com/news/irvine-321520-animals-pet.html
Toronto and Irivine join the following jurisdictions that have passed a ban on the retail sale of pets:
Albuquerque, New Mexico Passed June 2006; Effective August 2007
Austin, Texas Passed December 2010; Effective December 2010
Coral Gables, Florida Applies to dogs only
El Paso, Texas Passed October 2010; Effective January 2011
Flagler Beach, Florida Applies to all animals, prohibits sales and breeding
Fountain, Colorado Passed May 2011; Effective May 2011
Glendale, California Passed August 2011; Effective September 2011*
*Pet sellers given 1 year to come into compliance (September 2012)
Hemosa Beach, Florida Passed March 2010; Effective April 2010
Lake Worth, Florida Passed February 2011; Effective February 2011
Lauderdale Lakes, Florida Applies to dogs only
North Bay Village, Florida Applies to dogs only
Opa-Locka, Florida Applies to dogs only
Richmond, British Columbia Passed November 2010; Effective April 2011
South Lake Tahoe, California Passed April 2009; Effective May 2009**
**Pet sellers given 2 years to come into compliance (May 2011)
West Hollywood, California Passed February 2010; Effective March 2010
Wentzville, MO Alderman Nick Guccione attempted to pass a ban in 2010 but it failed. He is running for mayor in 2012. More and more our elected officials are concerned about animal welfare. Nick is a dynamic man who would make a fabulous mayor !!!
Groups are protesting Petlands across the country (as well as other puppy mill outlets) and the number of Petland stores in the US has decreased from 140 in 2008 to 86 today. Our peaceful protest at Petland in Lake St Louis continues (every Sunday from 12 to 2)--if you're interested in joining us please let me know.
C.A.R.E. Reaches Out To Other Rescues
CARE has been told the brands of food are: Purina, Nutro, and Royal Canine. The cost is pennies compared to the cost in retail.That’s correct. It is not completely free food. It will cost Coalition for Animal Rescue and Education approximately $0.05 per pound or approximately $50 per pallet for dog food and or cat food. We pay the up front cost for 30 to 40 pallets and transportation. So we must charge a minimal amount to each rescue that wants to participate so we retrieve the original outlay of cost. At this time we do not have our first truck load but it will be coming. This is how it works.
CARE pays for the food and transportation. WE store it in a warehouse here in the city.
Rescues that want to receive food and are a 501 c3 go to the Rescue Bank.com data base and complete the form for Recipient. It is not that complicated. Rescue Bank.com reviews the application and confirms that the rescue is a 501c3.
Rescue Bank then sends us a list of ‘confirmed’ 501 c3 rescues, shelters, or AC that have applied. CARE sends the pick up schedule for the food ….. (which we do not have worked out completely yet because we haven’t received the first truck…..) but the plan is to have two pick up days one week and two pick up days two weeks after. That is a total of 4 pick up schedules a month. THE RESCUE comes to the warehouse and picks up the food. We do not deliver.
This is an example: EXAMPLE ONLY - -- -- First week of the month, pick up will be on Tuesday and Thursdays from 1pm to 7pm.
Third week of the month, pick up will be the same, Tuesday and Thursdays. After CARE gets the approved list from RESCUE BANK and then we contact you by email we can give you the schedule. The Recipient rescues will confirm the pickup date with the warehouse by email. When the food is totally distributed then we request anther truck and continue down the list where we stopped. First come first served.
We will accept checks or cash and if necessary we will take credit cards.
As soon as the food is gone, we request another truck. Some Affiliates in Tennessee and Kansas City are distributing up to 3 trucks a month and some one truck every 3 months.. It depends on how many rescues request distribution.
We want this to work because so many of us are struggling with these economic times. CARE has to pay for their food donation just like everyone else. Rescues can pick up hundreds of pounds of food for dogs and cats extremely cheap. This is an opportunity I think we all can benefit.
If you have questions, send emails to carole@boxxarchitect.com because I work through the day and cannot take a lot of phone calls.
Rescues interested have the next step; you must be approved by Rescue Bank before we can provide food to you. And as soon as we get a truck in or we know it is coming, we will contact the approved rescues. First come is first served until the supply is gone.
I thank you for your time. As soon as all details or worked out we will follow with our next message.We want this to help many rescues and save more lives. AND YES - - You will have to pay pennies for each pound of food, dog or cat. We thank you for your time. Next step is yours. Carole Pitzer, Coalition for Animal Rescue and Education
Monday, October 24, 2011
ASPCA Applauds Jack's Pets for No Longer Selling Puppies
Supporters across the nation have taken a stand against puppy mills, and pet stores are taking notice. Recently, Jack’s Pets, one of the largest pet store chains in the Midwest, has decided to no longer sell puppies in any of its stores. Instead, Jack’s will work with the ASPCA to expand its work with local animal shelters and rescue groups to offer in-store pet adoptions.
“The ASPCA is thrilled to see a pet store chain like Jack’s transition to a no puppy sales model,” says ASPCA President and CEO Ed Sayres. “We hope that this decision will convince other pet stores to stop selling puppies and support local animal adoption programs, which would improve the lives of countless dogs.”
Over the last six months, Jack’s Pets has changed its name, expanded its pet food selections to more than 30 brands, and tested a successful new store format that does not include the sale of puppies.
“We have over one million customers coming through our doors every year,” says Scott Brenner, president of Jack’s Pets. “We recognize that we can have a very positive impact on our local pet community by working with various adoption agencies surrounding our stores.” He adds, “We want to continue to provide our customers with lovable companions while helping to save dogs’ lives, and we hope other stores will follow suit.”
In July 2011, the ASPCA unveiled a national campaign to raise awareness about the connection between pet store puppies and puppy mills. Our goal is to reduce the demand for puppy mill puppies by urging consumers not to buy any items—including food, supplies or toys—if the store or website sells puppies.
Supporters across the nation have taken a stand against puppy mills, and pet stores are taking notice. Recently, Jack’s Pets, one of the largest pet store chains in the Midwest, has decided to no longer sell puppies in any of its stores. Instead, Jack’s will work with the ASPCA to expand its work with local animal shelters and rescue groups to offer in-store pet adoptions.
“The ASPCA is thrilled to see a pet store chain like Jack’s transition to a no puppy sales model,” says ASPCA President and CEO Ed Sayres. “We hope that this decision will convince other pet stores to stop selling puppies and support local animal adoption programs, which would improve the lives of countless dogs.”
Over the last six months, Jack’s Pets has changed its name, expanded its pet food selections to more than 30 brands, and tested a successful new store format that does not include the sale of puppies.
“We have over one million customers coming through our doors every year,” says Scott Brenner, president of Jack’s Pets. “We recognize that we can have a very positive impact on our local pet community by working with various adoption agencies surrounding our stores.” He adds, “We want to continue to provide our customers with lovable companions while helping to save dogs’ lives, and we hope other stores will follow suit.”
In July 2011, the ASPCA unveiled a national campaign to raise awareness about the connection between pet store puppies and puppy mills. Our goal is to reduce the demand for puppy mill puppies by urging consumers not to buy any items—including food, supplies or toys—if the store or website sells puppies.
Saturday, October 22, 2011
Chicago, Illinois Can You Help
Bones (Petraits attached) is a big strong, loyal and loving, one-year-old, 80-pound, male, American Bulldog looking for a loving guardian.
Bones has a huge head and is white with black spots and brindle patches. Bones gets along with other dogs and is attentive with people … especially if you have a treat for him.
Bones is good on leash, (but strong), and loves car rides. Found as a stray in Bolingbrook, Illinois, he was obviously someone’s pet. He knows how to sit on command and takes treats very gently from your fingers.
Bones is healthy, de-wormed, neutered, up-to-date on vaccines, micro-chipped and heartworm-tested. His adoption fee of $200 benefits rescued dogs. To meet and possibly adopt him, contact JJ at jojoann1c3@sbcglobal.net or 708-652-3475. He is currently living in West Chicago, Illinois.
To see other pets for adoption, please visit
http://www.adoptapet.com/shelter72998-pets.html
Sheri
Petraits Pet Photography
Photography: http://www.petraits.com
Adoptions: http://www.petraits.petfinder.com
773-777-2891
sheri@petraits.com
Bones has a huge head and is white with black spots and brindle patches. Bones gets along with other dogs and is attentive with people … especially if you have a treat for him.
Bones is good on leash, (but strong), and loves car rides. Found as a stray in Bolingbrook, Illinois, he was obviously someone’s pet. He knows how to sit on command and takes treats very gently from your fingers.
Bones is healthy, de-wormed, neutered, up-to-date on vaccines, micro-chipped and heartworm-tested. His adoption fee of $200 benefits rescued dogs. To meet and possibly adopt him, contact JJ at jojoann1c3@sbcglobal.net or 708-652-3475. He is currently living in West Chicago, Illinois.
To see other pets for adoption, please visit
http://www.adoptapet.com/shelter72998-pets.html
Sheri
Petraits Pet Photography
Photography: http://www.petraits.com
Adoptions: http://www.petraits.petfinder.com
773-777-2891
sheri@petraits.com
Friday, October 21, 2011
Halloween Safety Tips
for
Pet Owners
Halloween can be a frightening time for family dogs. Each Halloween, veterinarians nationwide see pet injuries that could have been avoided. Here are some ways we can protect pets:
Walk your dog before trick-or-treaters start their visits. Keep a firm grip on the leash; many dogs are frightened by people in costumes.
Find a secure place in your home to keep your dogs, especially if you're giving out candy to trick-or-treaters. Many dogs get loose when the door opens, and the presence of little (and big) costumed people often scares animals, increasing the chance dogs will run away or get hit by cars.
Make sure your dog is wearing an up-to-date I.D. tag.
Place a dog gate in front of your front door to block access in case someone accidentally lets your pet out of the place where he's confined. Many dogs will run after trick-or-treaters.
If your dog has any aggressive tendencies, fear of loud noises, or a habit of excessive barking, place him in a quiet room as far away from your front door as possible at least a half-hour before trick-or-treaters arrive.
Consider crating your pet, which can make him feel more secure and reduce chances of accidental escapes. Provide chew toys, a favorite blanket, a piece of clothing with your scent on it, or whatever comforts the animal. Play soft music or a recording of soothing sounds.
If you want to have your dog near the door to greet visitors, keep him on leash. Pets can become very stressed by holiday activities and unwelcome interruptions in routine. A nervous dog might feel threatened and growl, lunge or bite.
Keep dogs indoors. It's a bad idea to leave dogs out in the yard; in addition to the parade of holiday celebrants frightening and agitating them, there have been reports of taunting, poisonings and pet thefts. Plus they're likely to bark and howl at the constant flow of treat or treaters.
Keep dogs out of the candy bowl. Dispose of candy wrappers before your pets get to them, since the wrappers can cause choking or intestinal obstruction. Make sure the dogs can't get into the trash. Note: Chocolate contains theobromine, which can cause nerve damage and even death in dogs. The darker the chocolate, the more concentrated it is -- and the smaller the lethal dose.
Explain to everyone in your home (including kids) how dangerous treats are to pets. Take young children's candy supply and put it somewhere out of reach of pets. Caution children about leaving candy wrappers on the floor.
Make sure pets can't reach candles, jack-o-lanterns, decorations or ornaments.
Halloween costumes can annoy animals and pose safety and health hazards...so think twice before dressing up the dog. Make sure the dog can breathe, see and hear, and that the costume is flame retardant. Remove any small or dangling accessories that could be chewed and swallowed. Avoid rubber bands, which can cut off the animal's circulation or, if accidentally left on, can burrow and cut into the animal's skin.
If the animal is very high-strung, consult your vet about tranquilizing for the night.
When walking dogs during or after Halloween, watch carefully for what they might pick up and choke on. Bits of candy and wrappers abound on sidewalks and streets after holidays.
If you notice these symptoms of chocolate poisoning, go to your vet or an emergency vet right away because your pet's life may be in danger:
•Excessive drooling
•Excessive urination
Pupil dilation
Rapid heartbeat
Vomiting and diarrhea
Hyperactivity
Muscle tremors and seizures
for
Pet Owners
Halloween can be a frightening time for family dogs. Each Halloween, veterinarians nationwide see pet injuries that could have been avoided. Here are some ways we can protect pets:
Walk your dog before trick-or-treaters start their visits. Keep a firm grip on the leash; many dogs are frightened by people in costumes.
Find a secure place in your home to keep your dogs, especially if you're giving out candy to trick-or-treaters. Many dogs get loose when the door opens, and the presence of little (and big) costumed people often scares animals, increasing the chance dogs will run away or get hit by cars.
Make sure your dog is wearing an up-to-date I.D. tag.
Place a dog gate in front of your front door to block access in case someone accidentally lets your pet out of the place where he's confined. Many dogs will run after trick-or-treaters.
If your dog has any aggressive tendencies, fear of loud noises, or a habit of excessive barking, place him in a quiet room as far away from your front door as possible at least a half-hour before trick-or-treaters arrive.
Consider crating your pet, which can make him feel more secure and reduce chances of accidental escapes. Provide chew toys, a favorite blanket, a piece of clothing with your scent on it, or whatever comforts the animal. Play soft music or a recording of soothing sounds.
If you want to have your dog near the door to greet visitors, keep him on leash. Pets can become very stressed by holiday activities and unwelcome interruptions in routine. A nervous dog might feel threatened and growl, lunge or bite.
Keep dogs indoors. It's a bad idea to leave dogs out in the yard; in addition to the parade of holiday celebrants frightening and agitating them, there have been reports of taunting, poisonings and pet thefts. Plus they're likely to bark and howl at the constant flow of treat or treaters.
Keep dogs out of the candy bowl. Dispose of candy wrappers before your pets get to them, since the wrappers can cause choking or intestinal obstruction. Make sure the dogs can't get into the trash. Note: Chocolate contains theobromine, which can cause nerve damage and even death in dogs. The darker the chocolate, the more concentrated it is -- and the smaller the lethal dose.
Explain to everyone in your home (including kids) how dangerous treats are to pets. Take young children's candy supply and put it somewhere out of reach of pets. Caution children about leaving candy wrappers on the floor.
Make sure pets can't reach candles, jack-o-lanterns, decorations or ornaments.
Halloween costumes can annoy animals and pose safety and health hazards...so think twice before dressing up the dog. Make sure the dog can breathe, see and hear, and that the costume is flame retardant. Remove any small or dangling accessories that could be chewed and swallowed. Avoid rubber bands, which can cut off the animal's circulation or, if accidentally left on, can burrow and cut into the animal's skin.
If the animal is very high-strung, consult your vet about tranquilizing for the night.
When walking dogs during or after Halloween, watch carefully for what they might pick up and choke on. Bits of candy and wrappers abound on sidewalks and streets after holidays.
If you notice these symptoms of chocolate poisoning, go to your vet or an emergency vet right away because your pet's life may be in danger:
•Excessive drooling
•Excessive urination
Pupil dilation
Rapid heartbeat
Vomiting and diarrhea
Hyperactivity
Muscle tremors and seizures
Halloween Safety Tips
for
Pet Owners
Halloween can be a frightening time for family dogs. Each Halloween, veterinarians nationwide see pet injuries that could have been avoided. Here are some ways we can protect pets:
Walk your dog before trick-or-treaters start their visits. Keep a firm grip on the leash; many dogs are frightened by people in costumes.
Find a secure place in your home to keep your dogs, especially if you're giving out candy to trick-or-treaters. Many dogs get loose when the door opens, and the presence of little (and big) costumed people often scares animals, increasing the chance dogs will run away or get hit by cars.
Make sure your dog is wearing an up-to-date I.D. tag.
Place a dog gate in front of your front door to block access in case someone accidentally lets your pet out of the place where he's confined. Many dogs will run after trick-or-treaters.
If your dog has any aggressive tendencies, fear of loud noises, or a habit of excessive barking, place him in a quiet room as far away from your front door as possible at least a half-hour before trick-or-treaters arrive.
Consider crating your pet, which can make him feel more secure and reduce chances of accidental escapes. Provide chew toys, a favorite blanket, a piece of clothing with your scent on it, or whatever comforts the animal. Play soft music or a recording of soothing sounds.
If you want to have your dog near the door to greet visitors, keep him on leash. Pets can become very stressed by holiday activities and unwelcome interruptions in routine. A nervous dog might feel threatened and growl, lunge or bite.
Keep dogs indoors. It's a bad idea to leave dogs out in the yard; in addition to the parade of holiday celebrants frightening and agitating them, there have been reports of taunting, poisonings and pet thefts. Plus they're likely to bark and howl at the constant flow of treat or treaters.
Keep dogs out of the candy bowl. Dispose of candy wrappers before your pets get to them, since the wrappers can cause choking or intestinal obstruction. Make sure the dogs can't get into the trash. Note: Chocolate contains theobromine, which can cause nerve damage and even death in dogs. The darker the chocolate, the more concentrated it is -- and the smaller the lethal dose.
Explain to everyone in your home (including kids) how dangerous treats are to pets. Take young children's candy supply and put it somewhere out of reach of pets. Caution children about leaving candy wrappers on the floor.
Make sure pets can't reach candles, jack-o-lanterns, decorations or ornaments.
Halloween costumes can annoy animals and pose safety and health hazards...so think twice before dressing up the dog. Make sure the dog can breathe, see and hear, and that the costume is flame retardant. Remove any small or dangling accessories that could be chewed and swallowed. Avoid rubber bands, which can cut off the animal's circulation or, if accidentally left on, can burrow and cut into the animal's skin.
If the animal is very high-strung, consult your vet about tranquilizing for the night.
When walking dogs during or after Halloween, watch carefully for what they might pick up and choke on. Bits of candy and wrappers abound on sidewalks and streets after holidays.
If you notice these symptoms of chocolate poisoning, go to your vet or an emergency vet right away because your pet's life may be in danger:
•Excessive drooling
•Excessive urination
Pupil dilation
Rapid heartbeat
Vomiting and diarrhea
Hyperactivity
Muscle tremors and seizures
for
Pet Owners
Halloween can be a frightening time for family dogs. Each Halloween, veterinarians nationwide see pet injuries that could have been avoided. Here are some ways we can protect pets:
Walk your dog before trick-or-treaters start their visits. Keep a firm grip on the leash; many dogs are frightened by people in costumes.
Find a secure place in your home to keep your dogs, especially if you're giving out candy to trick-or-treaters. Many dogs get loose when the door opens, and the presence of little (and big) costumed people often scares animals, increasing the chance dogs will run away or get hit by cars.
Make sure your dog is wearing an up-to-date I.D. tag.
Place a dog gate in front of your front door to block access in case someone accidentally lets your pet out of the place where he's confined. Many dogs will run after trick-or-treaters.
If your dog has any aggressive tendencies, fear of loud noises, or a habit of excessive barking, place him in a quiet room as far away from your front door as possible at least a half-hour before trick-or-treaters arrive.
Consider crating your pet, which can make him feel more secure and reduce chances of accidental escapes. Provide chew toys, a favorite blanket, a piece of clothing with your scent on it, or whatever comforts the animal. Play soft music or a recording of soothing sounds.
If you want to have your dog near the door to greet visitors, keep him on leash. Pets can become very stressed by holiday activities and unwelcome interruptions in routine. A nervous dog might feel threatened and growl, lunge or bite.
Keep dogs indoors. It's a bad idea to leave dogs out in the yard; in addition to the parade of holiday celebrants frightening and agitating them, there have been reports of taunting, poisonings and pet thefts. Plus they're likely to bark and howl at the constant flow of treat or treaters.
Keep dogs out of the candy bowl. Dispose of candy wrappers before your pets get to them, since the wrappers can cause choking or intestinal obstruction. Make sure the dogs can't get into the trash. Note: Chocolate contains theobromine, which can cause nerve damage and even death in dogs. The darker the chocolate, the more concentrated it is -- and the smaller the lethal dose.
Explain to everyone in your home (including kids) how dangerous treats are to pets. Take young children's candy supply and put it somewhere out of reach of pets. Caution children about leaving candy wrappers on the floor.
Make sure pets can't reach candles, jack-o-lanterns, decorations or ornaments.
Halloween costumes can annoy animals and pose safety and health hazards...so think twice before dressing up the dog. Make sure the dog can breathe, see and hear, and that the costume is flame retardant. Remove any small or dangling accessories that could be chewed and swallowed. Avoid rubber bands, which can cut off the animal's circulation or, if accidentally left on, can burrow and cut into the animal's skin.
If the animal is very high-strung, consult your vet about tranquilizing for the night.
When walking dogs during or after Halloween, watch carefully for what they might pick up and choke on. Bits of candy and wrappers abound on sidewalks and streets after holidays.
If you notice these symptoms of chocolate poisoning, go to your vet or an emergency vet right away because your pet's life may be in danger:
•Excessive drooling
•Excessive urination
Pupil dilation
Rapid heartbeat
Vomiting and diarrhea
Hyperactivity
Muscle tremors and seizures
Thursday, October 20, 2011
Wentzville, Missouri and Beyond.....
The weekly peaceful protest at Petland located at 6131 Ronald Reagan Dr. Lake St. Louis, MO 63367 Sunday from 12-2pm. Signs and literature provided. Please join us if you can and/or spread the word and be a voice for the dogs suffering in puppy mills.
Information on Petland breeders attached. For more info on puppy mills visit www.petshoppuppies.org
Information on Petland breeders attached. For more info on puppy mills visit www.petshoppuppies.org
Wednesday, October 19, 2011
Hamilton, IL: A call came into my vet office about a puppy found stray with a mangled foot. She was raced to our vet clinic and immediately given pain meds!!! After a lot of thought, the only option was to remove her entire leg. Her bones/toes were GONE, nothing to "close" up. 
We are not sure what happened but she was found be a sm lake and the thought is she might have gotten too close to a snapping turtle. She had a single puncture wound on the bottom of her paw. Regardless, thanks to our great vet, she promptly began surgery to ampute her leg….sad, she is only around 3 months old and it's a front leg but no other options and her life is the most important thing we considered. 
She is resting as comfortably as possible at the clinic now and I will go visit her tomorrow. She is going to be staying at the vet clinic for now. 
If anyone can help with her emergency and after care vetting please contact our vet clinic at 217-847-3911 for donation(keep questions coming to me, please) or we have a paypal account which is our email address westhancockk9@mchsi.com www.westhancockcaninerescue.org THANK YOU!
We are not sure what happened but she was found be a sm lake and the thought is she might have gotten too close to a snapping turtle. She had a single puncture wound on the bottom of her paw. Regardless, thanks to our great vet, she promptly began surgery to ampute her leg….sad, she is only around 3 months old and it's a front leg but no other options and her life is the most important thing we considered. She is resting as comfortably as possible at the clinic now and I will go visit her tomorrow. She is going to be staying at the vet clinic for now. If anyone can help with her emergency and after care vetting please contact our vet clinic at 217-847-3911 for donation(keep questions coming to me, please) or we have a paypal account which is our email address westhancockk9@mchsi.com www.westhancockcaninerescue.org THANK YOU!
MISSOURI ST LOUIS CTY ANIMAL CONTROL, NATIONAL PROTEST AGAINST KILL POUNDS
NEW YORK/MISSOURI ANIMAL RIGHTS ALLIANCE AMERICA PRESENTS:
NATIONAL PROTEST AGAINST KILL POUNDS IN AMERICA
Jackie S.
Missouri Animal Rights Alliance America
forestress72@gmail.com
WE DEMAND **TRUE-NO-KILL** NOW!!
END THE HORROR AND TRAGEDY THAT IS THE KILL POUND SYSTEM OF AMERICA KILLING 800 DOGS AND CATS PER HOUR!!
THIS IS A NATIONWIDE UPRISING AGAINST KILL POUNDS!!
PLEASE CHECK YOUR STATE TO SEE IF IT IS LISTED
AT YOUR NEAREST KILL POUND IN PROTEST
OR
... YOUR NO KILL SHELTER IN SUPPORT
♥ MUST HAVE ALL 50 STATES PARTICIPATE!!
PLEASE JOIN OUR GROUP AND ADD ALL YOUR FRIENDS!
NEW YORK ANIMAL RIGHTS ALLIANCE AMERICA
http://www.facebook.com/groups/123965560959329
MISSOURI:
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Missouri-Animal-Rights-Alliance-America-MO-ARAA/264521793560090
THIS IS A NATIONAL UPRISING AGAINST KILL POUNDS IN AMERICA!!
**NOVEMBER 12, 2011**
I need a shelter or pound in every state this time so please dont say you are in Nebraska and you only shared! Please grab a sign a red shirt and let me know you can do this!!
NEED OUT OF STATE POUNDS TO PARTICIPATE. (1) stand outside local pound or shelter WEARING RED, (2) hold a sign EITHER IN SUPPORT OF OR IN PROTEST OF their local shelter or pound, STOP THE KILLING OF DOGS & CATS - NY-ARAA. (3) Let me know what pound or shelter, address and time you will stand there for 1 hour (4) need pic or short video, name, member of NY-ARAA and what is going on at your pound or shelter.
What we do in between protests is collect affidavits of ABUSE, NEGLIGENCE AND INCOMPETENCE and seek legal action AND seek out elected officials that would be pro-animal.
BUT the trick is to convince an elected official that the public cares. In order to do that, WE MUST RALLY THE PEOPLE. In NY, they just passed a law 0655, why? because no one in NY has done a DAMN THING, seriously for the past five years! So 46 out of 50 council people passed NO SHELTERS IN QUEENS AND THE BRONX. Now there is us, period.
We will form a 10,000 person voting coalition - this we do IN BETWEEN PROTESTS. Next year for instance, we will have **4** protests.
So I'm sure in every state, there must be a shelter or pound we can stand out in front of for one to two hours with a sign that says STOP KILLING DOGS AND CATS. In support of that shelter or in protest of.
Please join our group, New York Animal Rights Alliance America, and check the list on the NY page. We have states missing. Please think about this, let's fill in those states. North Carolina has 23 gas pounds. This is complete insanity and will never end without a NATIONAL UPRISING. We seek to do no less.
NEW YORK/MISSOURI ANIMAL RIGHTS ALLIANCE AMERICA PRESENTS:
NATIONAL PROTEST AGAINST KILL POUNDS IN AMERICA
Jackie S.
Missouri Animal Rights Alliance America
forestress72@gmail.com
WE DEMAND **TRUE-NO-KILL** NOW!!
END THE HORROR AND TRAGEDY THAT IS THE KILL POUND SYSTEM OF AMERICA KILLING 800 DOGS AND CATS PER HOUR!!
THIS IS A NATIONWIDE UPRISING AGAINST KILL POUNDS!!
PLEASE CHECK YOUR STATE TO SEE IF IT IS LISTED
AT YOUR NEAREST KILL POUND IN PROTEST
OR
... YOUR NO KILL SHELTER IN SUPPORT
♥ MUST HAVE ALL 50 STATES PARTICIPATE!!
PLEASE JOIN OUR GROUP AND ADD ALL YOUR FRIENDS!
NEW YORK ANIMAL RIGHTS ALLIANCE AMERICA
http://www.facebook.com/groups/123965560959329
MISSOURI:
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Missouri-Animal-Rights-Alliance-America-MO-ARAA/264521793560090
THIS IS A NATIONAL UPRISING AGAINST KILL POUNDS IN AMERICA!!
**NOVEMBER 12, 2011**
I need a shelter or pound in every state this time so please dont say you are in Nebraska and you only shared! Please grab a sign a red shirt and let me know you can do this!!
NEED OUT OF STATE POUNDS TO PARTICIPATE. (1) stand outside local pound or shelter WEARING RED, (2) hold a sign EITHER IN SUPPORT OF OR IN PROTEST OF their local shelter or pound, STOP THE KILLING OF DOGS & CATS - NY-ARAA. (3) Let me know what pound or shelter, address and time you will stand there for 1 hour (4) need pic or short video, name, member of NY-ARAA and what is going on at your pound or shelter.
What we do in between protests is collect affidavits of ABUSE, NEGLIGENCE AND INCOMPETENCE and seek legal action AND seek out elected officials that would be pro-animal.
BUT the trick is to convince an elected official that the public cares. In order to do that, WE MUST RALLY THE PEOPLE. In NY, they just passed a law 0655, why? because no one in NY has done a DAMN THING, seriously for the past five years! So 46 out of 50 council people passed NO SHELTERS IN QUEENS AND THE BRONX. Now there is us, period.
We will form a 10,000 person voting coalition - this we do IN BETWEEN PROTESTS. Next year for instance, we will have **4** protests.
So I'm sure in every state, there must be a shelter or pound we can stand out in front of for one to two hours with a sign that says STOP KILLING DOGS AND CATS. In support of that shelter or in protest of.
Please join our group, New York Animal Rights Alliance America, and check the list on the NY page. We have states missing. Please think about this, let's fill in those states. North Carolina has 23 gas pounds. This is complete insanity and will never end without a NATIONAL UPRISING. We seek to do no less.
Don't Let Breed Bans Claim Yet Another Life!
This Girl Needs Rescue To Live!!!
Independence, MO Animal Shelter
Animal ID 14290877
Contact Kiki at 573-268-3975 and fsumommax4@yahoo.com if you can help!
This pretty girl is at the Indepenence, MO animal shelter and due to her breed, she will die without ever having a chance! She MUST have rescue pull her out of the shelter if she is to live. This is such a shame that simply because she is a pitbull, she will not be allowed to be adopted, isn't allowed the opportunity to find a home and a family, isn't allowed to live...UNLESS a rescue steps up to save her! PLEASE be her angel and miracle!
This girl is a very sweet, very loving dog who likes to be with people and play. She is smart and learns quickly. Just look how well she is sitting for her photo!! She would make a fabulous companion for someone. PLEASE help her!!! Her time is quickly running out. Once off stray hold, she'll be euthanized.
This Girl Needs Rescue To Live!!!
Independence, MO Animal Shelter
Animal ID 14290877
Contact Kiki at 573-268-3975 and fsumommax4@yahoo.com if you can help!
This pretty girl is at the Indepenence, MO animal shelter and due to her breed, she will die without ever having a chance! She MUST have rescue pull her out of the shelter if she is to live. This is such a shame that simply because she is a pitbull, she will not be allowed to be adopted, isn't allowed the opportunity to find a home and a family, isn't allowed to live...UNLESS a rescue steps up to save her! PLEASE be her angel and miracle!
This girl is a very sweet, very loving dog who likes to be with people and play. She is smart and learns quickly. Just look how well she is sitting for her photo!! She would make a fabulous companion for someone. PLEASE help her!!! Her time is quickly running out. Once off stray hold, she'll be euthanized.
Tuesday, October 18, 2011
November 5 is fasting approaching!That means it's time for the 1st Annual Kilometers for Canines in Crisis race and I want you to sign up!! :)
Please come out and support the dogs of Canines In Crisis, Bi-State Pet Pantry, START and other local rescues groups and cheer on the runners planning to attend the 5K!
I have listed the link below to sign up along with the registration form if you prefer to mail it in.
Please share with everyone! :) It is sure to be a fun event with face painting, storytelling and crafting for kids, 5K for runners or you can walk! :)
http://www.active.com/running/stlouis-mo/1st-annual-kilometers-for-canines-in-crisis-presented-by-pets-and-company-2011
"The greatness of a nation and its moral progress can be judged by the way its animals are treated." Mahatma Gandhi
Please come out and support the dogs of Canines In Crisis, Bi-State Pet Pantry, START and other local rescues groups and cheer on the runners planning to attend the 5K!
I have listed the link below to sign up along with the registration form if you prefer to mail it in.
Please share with everyone! :) It is sure to be a fun event with face painting, storytelling and crafting for kids, 5K for runners or you can walk! :)
http://www.active.com/running/stlouis-mo/1st-annual-kilometers-for-canines-in-crisis-presented-by-pets-and-company-2011
"The greatness of a nation and its moral progress can be judged by the way its animals are treated." Mahatma Gandhi
Irvine bans retail pet sales, rodeos, some circuses
October 12, 2011 11:36am
Animal activists, including one man dressed in a head-to-toe dog costume, cheered Tuesday night when Irvine City Council members banned the retail sale of cats and dogs.
The ordinance, which passed by a 4-1 vote with Councilman Jeffrey Lalloway dissenting, also bans rodeos and circuses featuring exotic animals, the Daily Pilot reported.
"It's just a win for animals all around," said Irvine resident Wendy Fears, a member of a small local group that helped organize support for the ban. "I'm just real proud of Irvine for standing up against animal abuse."
While Lalloway expressed disgust for those capable of animal cruelty, he worried that the proposed ordinance may move pet sales to the Internet and "import a pet problem rather than stop it."
"Today, tonight, we are here to deal with a problem that simply does not exist," Lalloway said. "We do not have any mass-breeding facilities here in Irvine. We have one pet store, Russo's, which will not be selling dogs and cats after next year."
In August, the Irvine Co., which owns the Irvine Spectrum where Russo's Pet Experience operates, announced that it would not renew the store's lease when it expires in October 2012.
The city also does not host circuses featuring wild animals or hold rodeos, Lalloway said.
While existing animal welfare laws should be enforced, new legislation in the city should "focus on putting people back to work, not on a problem that does not exist," he said.
More than 50 public speakers presented arguments to the council citing inhumane conditions found in so-called puppy mills and buyers' lack of knowledge about them and the associated health risks.
"The reason that we need to make these laws is that the public is duped," Fears said. "Every pet store will tell you that they get their dogs from responsible breeders, but the truth is that responsible breeders would never sell to a pet store."
However, Fears, who volunteers with multiple animal rights groups, said activists would now start looking toward other cities to adopt similar ordinances.
"This is just the first step in a process," Fears said. "People are starting to be become aware of how horrible a puppy mill is."
ALSO:
FBI makes arrest in celebrity phone-hacking case
O.C. rug merchant’s sexual assault victims now at 11, police say
Southern California heat wave raises wildfire threat, officials warn
— Sarah Peters, Times Community News
Photo: Russo's Spectrum Pets in Irvine on Aug. 17. Irvine City Council members banned the retail sale of cats and dogs Tuesday. Credit: Don Leach / Times Community
70 US Malls Ban Pet Sales
Dear Fellow Animal-Welfare Advocates,
This is really big news! Macerich, a US shopping center developer with 70 malls across the US (including Southern Hills in Sioux City, Lindale in Cedar Rapids and Southridge in Des Moines) is banning the sale of pets in their malls. Here is a link to the story: Breaking News.
Here is a link to the Macerich website. If you have time please send them a Thank You! Send a brief note to their Executive Vice President of Real Estate, Randy Brant, at randy.brant@macerich.com. Please also show your support by frequenting these malls when possible.
This is very important and will no doubt have a domino effect on other malls. Those malls that currently allow pet sales need to hear from us; the public. We must tell them in words and with our shopping dollars that we will not support them as long as they allow the sale of pets.
If you know of a store that sells puppies, please print this news article and deliver it to them along with a respectful request to ban pet sales.
This is one of the best ways to fix the puppy mill problem....eliminate the outlet! Very good news!!
Mary LaHay, President
Iowa Voters for Companion Animals
Funding our efforts
Covered with bite marks.
Rescued from Iowa mill.
WE NEED HELP WITH FUNDING OUR EFFORTS!
WE HAVE TWO SEPARATE ORGANIZATIONS NOW!
DONATE TO OUR
LOBBYING ORGANIZATION:
IOWA VOTERS FOR COMPANION ANIMALS
These donations are NOT tax deductible.
1) Use the 'DONATE' button on the website, www.iowavca.org,
or
2) Mail a check made out to "IowaVCA" to
IowaVCA
1321 - 41st Street
Des Moines, IA 50311
DONATE TO OUR EDUCATION ARM:
IOWA FRIENDS OF COMPANION ANIMALS, a 501(c)(3) non profit.
These donations ARE tax deductible!
1) Use the 'DONATE' button on the website, www.iafriends.org,
or
2) Mail a check made out to "IAFriends" to
IAFriends
1321 - 41st Street
Des Moines, IA 50311
October 12, 2011 11:36am
Animal activists, including one man dressed in a head-to-toe dog costume, cheered Tuesday night when Irvine City Council members banned the retail sale of cats and dogs.
The ordinance, which passed by a 4-1 vote with Councilman Jeffrey Lalloway dissenting, also bans rodeos and circuses featuring exotic animals, the Daily Pilot reported.
"It's just a win for animals all around," said Irvine resident Wendy Fears, a member of a small local group that helped organize support for the ban. "I'm just real proud of Irvine for standing up against animal abuse."
While Lalloway expressed disgust for those capable of animal cruelty, he worried that the proposed ordinance may move pet sales to the Internet and "import a pet problem rather than stop it."
"Today, tonight, we are here to deal with a problem that simply does not exist," Lalloway said. "We do not have any mass-breeding facilities here in Irvine. We have one pet store, Russo's, which will not be selling dogs and cats after next year."
In August, the Irvine Co., which owns the Irvine Spectrum where Russo's Pet Experience operates, announced that it would not renew the store's lease when it expires in October 2012.
The city also does not host circuses featuring wild animals or hold rodeos, Lalloway said.
While existing animal welfare laws should be enforced, new legislation in the city should "focus on putting people back to work, not on a problem that does not exist," he said.
More than 50 public speakers presented arguments to the council citing inhumane conditions found in so-called puppy mills and buyers' lack of knowledge about them and the associated health risks.
"The reason that we need to make these laws is that the public is duped," Fears said. "Every pet store will tell you that they get their dogs from responsible breeders, but the truth is that responsible breeders would never sell to a pet store."
However, Fears, who volunteers with multiple animal rights groups, said activists would now start looking toward other cities to adopt similar ordinances.
"This is just the first step in a process," Fears said. "People are starting to be become aware of how horrible a puppy mill is."
ALSO:
FBI makes arrest in celebrity phone-hacking case
O.C. rug merchant’s sexual assault victims now at 11, police say
Southern California heat wave raises wildfire threat, officials warn
— Sarah Peters, Times Community News
Photo: Russo's Spectrum Pets in Irvine on Aug. 17. Irvine City Council members banned the retail sale of cats and dogs Tuesday. Credit: Don Leach / Times Community
70 US Malls Ban Pet Sales
Dear Fellow Animal-Welfare Advocates,
This is really big news! Macerich, a US shopping center developer with 70 malls across the US (including Southern Hills in Sioux City, Lindale in Cedar Rapids and Southridge in Des Moines) is banning the sale of pets in their malls. Here is a link to the story: Breaking News.
Here is a link to the Macerich website. If you have time please send them a Thank You! Send a brief note to their Executive Vice President of Real Estate, Randy Brant, at randy.brant@macerich.com. Please also show your support by frequenting these malls when possible.
This is very important and will no doubt have a domino effect on other malls. Those malls that currently allow pet sales need to hear from us; the public. We must tell them in words and with our shopping dollars that we will not support them as long as they allow the sale of pets.
If you know of a store that sells puppies, please print this news article and deliver it to them along with a respectful request to ban pet sales.
This is one of the best ways to fix the puppy mill problem....eliminate the outlet! Very good news!!
Mary LaHay, President
Iowa Voters for Companion Animals
Funding our efforts
Covered with bite marks.
Rescued from Iowa mill.
WE NEED HELP WITH FUNDING OUR EFFORTS!
WE HAVE TWO SEPARATE ORGANIZATIONS NOW!
DONATE TO OUR
LOBBYING ORGANIZATION:
IOWA VOTERS FOR COMPANION ANIMALS
These donations are NOT tax deductible.
1) Use the 'DONATE' button on the website, www.iowavca.org,
or
2) Mail a check made out to "IowaVCA" to
IowaVCA
1321 - 41st Street
Des Moines, IA 50311
DONATE TO OUR EDUCATION ARM:
IOWA FRIENDS OF COMPANION ANIMALS, a 501(c)(3) non profit.
These donations ARE tax deductible!
1) Use the 'DONATE' button on the website, www.iafriends.org,
or
2) Mail a check made out to "IAFriends" to
IAFriends
1321 - 41st Street
Des Moines, IA 50311
Monday, October 17, 2011
Canine Compromise Appears To Be.......
Sept. 21, 2010 -- Sherry Flad, an adoption counselor at the Humane Society of Missouri, carries a scared female boxer into the facility for examination. The animal was one of 116 dogs that were rescued from two commercial dog breeding facilities. (J.B. Forbes jforbes@post-dispatch.com)
In January, bowing to farm interests, the Missouri Legislature set out to trash Proposition B, which Missouri voters narrowly approved in November. Proposition B aimed to eliminate Missouri's shameful status as the Puppy Mill Capital of America by enacting tough standards for commercial pet breeding operations.
The Legislature passed a bill that neutered Proposition B. But then — after a hard-fought, but good-faith, battle among competing interests and a deal brokered by members of both parties and the administration of Gov. Jay Nixon — the Legislature passed a second bill, Senate Bill 161.
SB 161 reinstituted many of Prop B's provisions but gave existing breeders time to phase in some of the more expensive (and important) changes, such as increasing cage sizes and banning wire flooring. It also authorized the Missouri attorney general to prosecute violations of the Animal Care Facilities Act. Mr. Nixon signed both bills and got the Legislature to cough up an additional $1.1 million for enforcement.
National animal rights groups like the Humane Society of the United States, which had helped fund the original Proposition B campaign, regarded SB 161 as a sell-out. But state and local animal welfare groups, including the Missouri Alliance for Animal Legislation and the Humane Society of Missouri, backed the so-called Missouri Solution. They said the compromise could work to improve the care of dogs and cats being bred as pets.
It appears they may have been right.
Last week, the state Department of Agriculture issued final regulations for implementing SB 161. The regulations clarify the requirement that a veterinarian personally examine every animal in a breeding facility at least once a year, documented with written records.
The department also has toughened enforcement, a shift that began when Mr. Nixon named Jon Hagler as director in January 2009. A horse rancher with a Ph. D in political science from Washington University, Mr. Hagler has overseen a 123 percent increase in inspections and 85 percent more citations for violations by breeding operations. With that has come a 33 percent decline in the number of licensed commercial dog breeders.
Mr. Hagler also launched a program called "Bark Alert" through which citizens can report substandard and abusive breeders, most of them illegal and unlicensed. The department says it has rescued some 5,200 dogs in the last two and a half years.
Animal welfare activists told that us Mr. Hagler has replaced much of his inspection staff with people more attuned to animal welfare concerns. With the funds appropriated this summer, he increased the number of inspectors to 14 — four more than in 2008 —and added an investigator and a full-time veterinarian to the staff.
The intensity and success of Proposition B's proponents clearly helped push elected officials to take long-delayed action against Missouri's disgraceful puppy mill operations. But it also took the practical, solution-minded approach of established local animal welfare organizations to reach a fair-minded compromise with breeders. It also took the support of Mr. Hagler and his boss, Mr. Nixon, two skilled political animals who have credibility with Missouri's powerful farm lobby.
A key challenge that remains: Fixing the grossly unfair fee schedule that treats non-profit animal shelters and rescue groups the same as for-profit breeders. Given the recent progress, it shouldn't be that difficult
Read more: http://www.stltoday.com/news/opinion/columns/the-platform/article_e989e5b6-7b89-5f18-9e0e-ee8e7a61b206.html#ixzz1b44y41Hn
In January, bowing to farm interests, the Missouri Legislature set out to trash Proposition B, which Missouri voters narrowly approved in November. Proposition B aimed to eliminate Missouri's shameful status as the Puppy Mill Capital of America by enacting tough standards for commercial pet breeding operations.
The Legislature passed a bill that neutered Proposition B. But then — after a hard-fought, but good-faith, battle among competing interests and a deal brokered by members of both parties and the administration of Gov. Jay Nixon — the Legislature passed a second bill, Senate Bill 161.
SB 161 reinstituted many of Prop B's provisions but gave existing breeders time to phase in some of the more expensive (and important) changes, such as increasing cage sizes and banning wire flooring. It also authorized the Missouri attorney general to prosecute violations of the Animal Care Facilities Act. Mr. Nixon signed both bills and got the Legislature to cough up an additional $1.1 million for enforcement.
National animal rights groups like the Humane Society of the United States, which had helped fund the original Proposition B campaign, regarded SB 161 as a sell-out. But state and local animal welfare groups, including the Missouri Alliance for Animal Legislation and the Humane Society of Missouri, backed the so-called Missouri Solution. They said the compromise could work to improve the care of dogs and cats being bred as pets.
It appears they may have been right.
Last week, the state Department of Agriculture issued final regulations for implementing SB 161. The regulations clarify the requirement that a veterinarian personally examine every animal in a breeding facility at least once a year, documented with written records.
The department also has toughened enforcement, a shift that began when Mr. Nixon named Jon Hagler as director in January 2009. A horse rancher with a Ph. D in political science from Washington University, Mr. Hagler has overseen a 123 percent increase in inspections and 85 percent more citations for violations by breeding operations. With that has come a 33 percent decline in the number of licensed commercial dog breeders.
Mr. Hagler also launched a program called "Bark Alert" through which citizens can report substandard and abusive breeders, most of them illegal and unlicensed. The department says it has rescued some 5,200 dogs in the last two and a half years.
Animal welfare activists told that us Mr. Hagler has replaced much of his inspection staff with people more attuned to animal welfare concerns. With the funds appropriated this summer, he increased the number of inspectors to 14 — four more than in 2008 —and added an investigator and a full-time veterinarian to the staff.
The intensity and success of Proposition B's proponents clearly helped push elected officials to take long-delayed action against Missouri's disgraceful puppy mill operations. But it also took the practical, solution-minded approach of established local animal welfare organizations to reach a fair-minded compromise with breeders. It also took the support of Mr. Hagler and his boss, Mr. Nixon, two skilled political animals who have credibility with Missouri's powerful farm lobby.
A key challenge that remains: Fixing the grossly unfair fee schedule that treats non-profit animal shelters and rescue groups the same as for-profit breeders. Given the recent progress, it shouldn't be that difficult
Read more: http://www.stltoday.com/news/opinion/columns/the-platform/article_e989e5b6-7b89-5f18-9e0e-ee8e7a61b206.html#ixzz1b44y41Hn
He had just saved her from a fire in her house, rescuing her by carrying her out of the house into her front yard, while he continued to fight the fire. She is pregnant. The firefighter was afraid of her at first, because he had never been around a Doberman before. When he finally got done putting the fire out, he sat down to catch his breath and rest. A photographer from the Charlotte, North Carolina newspaper, “The Observer,” noticed this red Doberman in the distance looking at the fireman. He saw her walking straight toward the fireman and wondered what she was going to do. As he raised his camera, she came up to the tired man who had saved her life and the lives of her babies, and kissed him, just as the photographer snapped this photograph. *sigh* dogs are so awesome
Friday, October 14, 2011
70 U.S. Malls Ban Pet Sales
Dear Fellow Animal-Welfare Advocates,
This is really big news! Macerich, a US shopping center developer with 70 malls across the US (including Southern Hills in Sioux City, Lindale in Cedar Rapids and Southridge in Des Moines) is banning the sale of pets in their malls. Here is a link to the story: Breaking News.
Here is a link to the Macerich website. If you have time please send them a Thank You! Send a brief note to their Executive Vice President of Real Estate, Randy Brant, at randy.brant@macerich.com. Please also show your support by frequenting these malls when possible.
This is very important and will no doubt have a domino effect on other malls. Those malls that currently allow pet sales need to hear from us; the public. We must tell them in words and with our shopping dollars that we will not support them as long as they allow the sale of pets.
If you know of a store that sells puppies, please print this news article and deliver it to them along with a respectful request to ban pet sales.
This is one of the best ways to fix the puppy mill problem....eliminate the outlet! Very good news!!
Mary LaHay, President
Iowa Voters for Companion Animals
This is really big news! Macerich, a US shopping center developer with 70 malls across the US (including Southern Hills in Sioux City, Lindale in Cedar Rapids and Southridge in Des Moines) is banning the sale of pets in their malls. Here is a link to the story: Breaking News.
Here is a link to the Macerich website. If you have time please send them a Thank You! Send a brief note to their Executive Vice President of Real Estate, Randy Brant, at randy.brant@macerich.com. Please also show your support by frequenting these malls when possible.
This is very important and will no doubt have a domino effect on other malls. Those malls that currently allow pet sales need to hear from us; the public. We must tell them in words and with our shopping dollars that we will not support them as long as they allow the sale of pets.
If you know of a store that sells puppies, please print this news article and deliver it to them along with a respectful request to ban pet sales.
This is one of the best ways to fix the puppy mill problem....eliminate the outlet! Very good news!!
Mary LaHay, President
Iowa Voters for Companion Animals
Thursday, October 13, 2011
INVITATION:
Please visit the new Facebook pages for Pound Puppies Volunteers of St. Louis and the BRAND new sister page for Pound Kitties Volunteers of St. Louis!
Please visit the new Facebook pages for Pound Puppies Volunteers of St. Louis and the BRAND new sister page for Pound Kitties Volunteers of St. Louis!
We are a small group of volunteers trying to save the lives of the dogs and cats in Granite City AC. Up until about a year ago, there was a nearly 100% euthenasia rate there. A few volunteers began working to rescue the wonderful dogs and have had much success! Recently this effort has expanded to work toward saving the beautiful and deserving kitties.As with any new and fledgling group, our Pound Kitties group is especially in need of help. We are desperate for fosters and rescues who could assist us to keep these cats from the euthenasia truck! We also have a Chip-In http://poundkittiesvolunteersofstl.chipin.com/veterinary-care-for-our-kitties for interested people to help us set up a fund to provide veterinary care for our cats. As of now we have NO money and anything we do comes from the pockets of the few volunteers.
If you could assist our kitties in any way please contact Diane S. 314 630-3468 or tbcmom54@hotmail.com. We are SO grateful for any assistance!!
Wednesday, October 12, 2011
State Barking Up The Wrong Tree
Shelters shouldn’t pay same taxes as breeders.
By BARBARA SCHMITZ
Tuesday, October 11, 2011
In most states, not-for-profit animal shelters and rescue groups are praised for their efforts to find homeless dogs and cats new and loving homes. They are not regarded as ordinary commercial enterprises any more than a food bank or a battered-women’s shelter. But here in Missouri, under the new regulations proposed by the state Department of Agriculture, not-for-profit shelters and rescues will be required to pay an increased license fee and a new tax for each dog or cat they successfully adopt out — as if they were, say, selling cars or lawnmowers rather than providing an essential service for our communities. If this shortsighted rule is finally adopted, our state would be the only one in the nation to take such a shameful and harmful step.
The economic downturn is having ripple effects in nearly every part of American life, but the impact on animal shelters has been especially acute. Struggling families are relinquishing more dogs and cats to shelters as they find they can no longer afford the costs of pet care or they are evicted from their homes and cannot find pet-friendly housing. At the same time, municipal governments are cutting local services, meaning private humane organizations have to carry more of the burden. And third, because of the economic downturn, charitable giving is on the decline, and humane organizations are struggling to make ends meet. It’s a triple whammy for animal shelters — greater demand but fewer resources.
Add to that the recent natural disasters in Joplin and southeast Missouri, and many shelters and rescue groups in our state are already facing dire financial straits. Now these lifesaving organizations will be required to pay as much as $2,500 every year to the state coffers, even though these private groups are helping the state by providing an essential service. These are the same fees and taxes imposed on for-profit, large-scale, commercial dog breeders, which are the very organizations that contribute to the problems the shelters must contend with. Shelters and rescues serve community and are not in the business of making a profit by breeding and selling dogs commercially. They are handling a problem not of their making. They should not be put into the same category and required to pay the same amount to the state as puppy mills.
Although it might make good economic sense to impose scaling fees on businesses — in this case, commercial breeding enterprises — based on the volume of puppies sold, in the not-for-profit context, it makes no sense. As commercial breeders sell more dogs, they make more money. The same is not true for charitable organizations — as more animals move in and out, it requires more labor and more resources. Animal shelters exist to provide care and housing to homeless pets while trying to find them loving homes. Charging a shelter a per-animal fee effectively penalizes the organization for its success in adopting out animals and is a disincentive for the group to perform well. Additionally, every dollar these charitable groups are forced to spend on this new tax and increased license fee means fewer resources to care for animals and to place them in new homes.
This is not only unreasonable, but it’s also penny-wise and pound-foolish. If not-for-profit animal shelters and rescue groups are unable to perform services for the community — sheltering animals, providing adoptions and reducing pet overpopulation through spaying and neutering — a greater burden will fall on the shoulders of Missouri taxpayers and public animal care and control agencies. With no one to care for stray dogs and cats, the demands on law enforcement, county health officials and animal control will grow, not to mention the potential costs of dealing with dog bites or a rabies epidemic. And who is it that handles so many dogs seized from illegally operating puppy mills? Again, to a considerable degree, it’s the private shelters, cleaning up the mess others have made.
Ironically, while our state’s officials are finding ways to strip away incentives for shelters and rescues to find homes for homeless dogs and cats, lawmakers in other states are seeking to do just the opposite. A bill recently introduced by Pennsylvania state Rep. Jesse White, D-Cecil, following another in a previous legislative session by California state Assemblyman Cameron Smyth, R-Santa Clarita, would provide a tax credit to people who adopt from in-state shelters or rescues. This not only provides an incentive to the public to adopt but also is a proactive step to reducing pet overpopulation. It is a shame to see the Show-Me State demonstrate to the country how little the government values the service provided by our state’s dedicated shelters and rescue groups.
Shelters and rescues are performing a service for all Missouri residents and should not be lumped into the same category as commercial puppy mills. The Missouri Department of Agriculture has the authority to allow a hardship waiver for this tax or to reduce this license fee.
Barbara Schmitz is Missouri state director with The Humane Society of the United States.
By BARBARA SCHMITZ
Tuesday, October 11, 2011
In most states, not-for-profit animal shelters and rescue groups are praised for their efforts to find homeless dogs and cats new and loving homes. They are not regarded as ordinary commercial enterprises any more than a food bank or a battered-women’s shelter. But here in Missouri, under the new regulations proposed by the state Department of Agriculture, not-for-profit shelters and rescues will be required to pay an increased license fee and a new tax for each dog or cat they successfully adopt out — as if they were, say, selling cars or lawnmowers rather than providing an essential service for our communities. If this shortsighted rule is finally adopted, our state would be the only one in the nation to take such a shameful and harmful step.
The economic downturn is having ripple effects in nearly every part of American life, but the impact on animal shelters has been especially acute. Struggling families are relinquishing more dogs and cats to shelters as they find they can no longer afford the costs of pet care or they are evicted from their homes and cannot find pet-friendly housing. At the same time, municipal governments are cutting local services, meaning private humane organizations have to carry more of the burden. And third, because of the economic downturn, charitable giving is on the decline, and humane organizations are struggling to make ends meet. It’s a triple whammy for animal shelters — greater demand but fewer resources.
Add to that the recent natural disasters in Joplin and southeast Missouri, and many shelters and rescue groups in our state are already facing dire financial straits. Now these lifesaving organizations will be required to pay as much as $2,500 every year to the state coffers, even though these private groups are helping the state by providing an essential service. These are the same fees and taxes imposed on for-profit, large-scale, commercial dog breeders, which are the very organizations that contribute to the problems the shelters must contend with. Shelters and rescues serve community and are not in the business of making a profit by breeding and selling dogs commercially. They are handling a problem not of their making. They should not be put into the same category and required to pay the same amount to the state as puppy mills.
Although it might make good economic sense to impose scaling fees on businesses — in this case, commercial breeding enterprises — based on the volume of puppies sold, in the not-for-profit context, it makes no sense. As commercial breeders sell more dogs, they make more money. The same is not true for charitable organizations — as more animals move in and out, it requires more labor and more resources. Animal shelters exist to provide care and housing to homeless pets while trying to find them loving homes. Charging a shelter a per-animal fee effectively penalizes the organization for its success in adopting out animals and is a disincentive for the group to perform well. Additionally, every dollar these charitable groups are forced to spend on this new tax and increased license fee means fewer resources to care for animals and to place them in new homes.
This is not only unreasonable, but it’s also penny-wise and pound-foolish. If not-for-profit animal shelters and rescue groups are unable to perform services for the community — sheltering animals, providing adoptions and reducing pet overpopulation through spaying and neutering — a greater burden will fall on the shoulders of Missouri taxpayers and public animal care and control agencies. With no one to care for stray dogs and cats, the demands on law enforcement, county health officials and animal control will grow, not to mention the potential costs of dealing with dog bites or a rabies epidemic. And who is it that handles so many dogs seized from illegally operating puppy mills? Again, to a considerable degree, it’s the private shelters, cleaning up the mess others have made.
Ironically, while our state’s officials are finding ways to strip away incentives for shelters and rescues to find homes for homeless dogs and cats, lawmakers in other states are seeking to do just the opposite. A bill recently introduced by Pennsylvania state Rep. Jesse White, D-Cecil, following another in a previous legislative session by California state Assemblyman Cameron Smyth, R-Santa Clarita, would provide a tax credit to people who adopt from in-state shelters or rescues. This not only provides an incentive to the public to adopt but also is a proactive step to reducing pet overpopulation. It is a shame to see the Show-Me State demonstrate to the country how little the government values the service provided by our state’s dedicated shelters and rescue groups.
Shelters and rescues are performing a service for all Missouri residents and should not be lumped into the same category as commercial puppy mills. The Missouri Department of Agriculture has the authority to allow a hardship waiver for this tax or to reduce this license fee.
Barbara Schmitz is Missouri state director with The Humane Society of the United States.
Don’t look for Gene Simmons and Shannon Tweed, the recently married God and Goddess of Thunder, in the wedding registries at Saks Fifth Avenue, Ambiance or even Wal-Mart. The rock & roll reality TV couple, frequently mocked, including right here, for their merchandising-crazy ways, have nobly made it clear they would like donations to the SPCA in place of any wedding gifts.In an actual Tweed tweet, the former Playboy Miss November 1981 and star of the film ‘Cannibal Women In The Avocado Jungle Of Death’ stated that she and Gene didn’t register anywhere for their big day and are instead asking friends, family and fans to give donations to the SPCA of Saskatoon, Canada (Shannon’s home town).
The couple had previously donated over $10,000 to the organization, and their love of the four legged creatures of the night is genuine! Just ask their mixed breed dog Snippy, who was right there alongside their kids Sophie and Nick, fellow Kiss band members and Hugh Hefner at the couple’s big Oct. 1st bash. We tip our hats to the newlyweds. May they rock and roll all night and party every day…well at least every other day.
Perhaps the wonderful Lisa Lampanelli said it best in a Tweet of her very own: “Gene Simmons proposing to Shannon Tweed is the smartest move he’s made since he stopped releasing solo albums!
Sunday, October 9, 2011
Don't forget! The inaugural Meow-o-ween Trivia Night is upon us! Come out to support St. Louis Pet Rescue at this great event. Please forward this email to your friends and post the attached flyer at your workplace!
Silent auction, 50/50 raffle, cash prizes, mulligans.
Soda/beer/wine included in price. Food allowed.
When
October 14, 2011 Doors at 6 pm, Costume Contest at 6:30 pm, Trivia starts at 7 pm
Where
St. Margaret Mary Alacoque
4900 Ringer Road
Saint Louis, MO 63129
Cost
$20 per person, $160 per team of 8
All proceeds benefit St. Louis Pet Rescue. STLPR rescues pets from local animal control facilities and neglect situations. Your donations will help STLPR continue their good efforts in the St. Louis area.
Pre-register your group online or fill out the volunteer form at stlpetrescue.com/trivia
Jackie
Silent auction, 50/50 raffle, cash prizes, mulligans.
Soda/beer/wine included in price. Food allowed.
When
October 14, 2011 Doors at 6 pm, Costume Contest at 6:30 pm, Trivia starts at 7 pm
Where
St. Margaret Mary Alacoque
4900 Ringer Road
Saint Louis, MO 63129
Cost
$20 per person, $160 per team of 8
All proceeds benefit St. Louis Pet Rescue. STLPR rescues pets from local animal control facilities and neglect situations. Your donations will help STLPR continue their good efforts in the St. Louis area.
Pre-register your group online or fill out the volunteer form at stlpetrescue.com/trivia
Jackie
St. Louis Pet Rescue
Puppy Millers to Receive State funds under new MDA Rules
Submitted by shelley
The Missouri Department of Agriculture has finalized the rules based on the passage of SB 161.1. They managed to go through thousands of written comments and finalize the rules in a week's time. Must be a record.
The rules actually listed at the MDA are still the old rules. I have no idea when the Department is actually going to post the new ones. I would have expected a link with the news release.
In the meantime, as far as we know, shelters are still being charged the same fee as commercial breeders. This on top of the fact that the State is providing funding for the professional breeders to make whatever meager changes are necessary to meet the new rules.
We are mindful that these important changes prescribed by statute and rule require a significant commitment from our licensed, professional breeders," said Dr. Hagler. "With that in mind, we have developed a plan to make financial resources available to professional breeders as we move forward to keep the breeding industry vibrant and strong. Moreover, in conjunction with the Missouri Veterinary Medical Association we are appointing a panel of veterinarians who serve our professional breeders to monitor the current changes and make future recommendations to enhance animal care."
Let's see if I have this correct: shelters and rescues that are taking care of the state and community unwanted and abandoned dogs and cats are being charged extra, while puppy millers who are adding to the problem are being given state tax payer money. And we're doing this so that we can continue to be the puppy mill capital of the US.
OK, I see how this all works.
Submitted by shelley
The Missouri Department of Agriculture has finalized the rules based on the passage of SB 161.1. They managed to go through thousands of written comments and finalize the rules in a week's time. Must be a record.
The rules actually listed at the MDA are still the old rules. I have no idea when the Department is actually going to post the new ones. I would have expected a link with the news release.
In the meantime, as far as we know, shelters are still being charged the same fee as commercial breeders. This on top of the fact that the State is providing funding for the professional breeders to make whatever meager changes are necessary to meet the new rules.
We are mindful that these important changes prescribed by statute and rule require a significant commitment from our licensed, professional breeders," said Dr. Hagler. "With that in mind, we have developed a plan to make financial resources available to professional breeders as we move forward to keep the breeding industry vibrant and strong. Moreover, in conjunction with the Missouri Veterinary Medical Association we are appointing a panel of veterinarians who serve our professional breeders to monitor the current changes and make future recommendations to enhance animal care."
Let's see if I have this correct: shelters and rescues that are taking care of the state and community unwanted and abandoned dogs and cats are being charged extra, while puppy millers who are adding to the problem are being given state tax payer money. And we're doing this so that we can continue to be the puppy mill capital of the US.
OK, I see how this all works.
Hi...do you know me??? I am a purebred Yorkshire Terrier. Pardon my appearance, maybe you didn't recognize me. I've been so busy making babies and it's hard to stay pretty when you live in filth and never bathe. Maybe you know one of my children, there are hundreds of them out there in the world. I know not where. They were taken from me so young. I hope they have forgotten me, anyway, and this horrible place I can never leave, this tiny cage with its wire floor is my world, I have never left it, it all I know. Is there something else? I know this cage, I know loneliness, I know fear, I know pain, I know sickness, I know hunger, I know thirst...I know I make babies. That's all I know. Is there more? Why are you here? I only know humans mean hurt. What do you mean help? What is Kindness? What is love? What is there beside what I know? Will you show me? Will you not forget me here? I want to know what else there is beside this hell I live in. Help me please, I can not help myself. ♥
There is a bill in the US Congress that will help dogs in puppy mills all over the country, the PUPS Act. House-HR835, Senate-S707. So far 25% of representatives have signed on in support. Please use the link: http://www.usa.gov/Contact/Elected.shtml to find your US (not state) Senator and Representatives and write or call, much more effective than email, to encourage them to support the PUPS Act. PLEASE REPOST!!! PUT AN END TO THIS INDUSTRY FOREVER! TOGETHER WE WILL BE HEARD! MAKE OUR GOVERNMENT LISTEN AND DO NOT STOP UNTIL PUPPY MILLS ARE OUTLAWED AND ANIMALS ARE PROTECTED! Be their voice and their guardian angel, end the suffering of these innocents, once and for all ♥
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