Beagles Are Primary Dog Breed Used In Research Laboratories …..

Beagles are one of the primary dog breeds used in research laboratories. Want to know why? Because of their demeanor and disposition. Beagles are absolutely sweet and most of them wouldn't hurt a fly. In labs, they are repeatedly subjected to all kinds of horrid situations. It absolutely broke my heart when I had found out about this in 2002. I stopped buying Eukanuba products because of what I had read back then about their test labs.

I am making the move to cruelty free products. Yes they do cost more. But for me, when I look at my two sweet beagles who obviously had a life of hell before they came to live with me, I can't imagine their breed buddies being subjected to horrible things. It is hard to explain. When I take my beagles to the vet for simple things like annual checkups, nail trims, or because they are a little under the weather, they sit so quietly and don't give any problems. (They do bay when they are in their kennel waiting for momma to come get them...they bay a lot). But seeing how they are...and imagining someone repeatedly injecting them with stuff...I can't help but feel stick to my stomach.

Beagle Freedom Project is an amazing rescue group that rescues beagles released from research laboratories. Follow their page to learn more.

For cleaners, I am changing over to using vinegar and water. I have some left over cleaning products which I am finishing out. Some things, I know I can't avoid buying. But I can try my best. Beagles should be loved and doted upon....not subjected to horrible research 

Check Out National Mill Dog Rescue & Breeder Release Adoption Service …..

Go to the websites for National Mill Dog Rescue and Breeder Release Adoption Service and see the appalling condition of dogs rescued from USDA licensed breeders. APHIS, charged with inspecting licensed facilities, has about 100 inspectors to oversee 11,000 facilities including breeders, circuses, zoos, research facilities, brokers and transporters. The number of facilities will increase by an estimated 5,000 soon due to regulations that now require licensing of breeders who sell dogs over the internet, by phone and mail. Even if APHIS had enough inspectors, the Animal Welfare Act they are charged with enforcing is vague and ineffective at best. It allows dogs to live their entire lives in stacked cages with wire bottoms where waste and urine rains dogs on dogs in lower cages, often blinding them and causing horrid skin conditions under their matted coats. The cages only have to be 6" longer than the dog from it's head to the base of it's tail. It allows temperature extremes, that in the case of extreme cold only have to be satisfied by providing "bedding" - like a cardboard box or newspaper. Food and water dishes only have to be cleaned every two weeks. Females are bred from their first heat and twice a year thereafter. We adopted an eight year old breeding female rescued from a USDA licensed breeder. When she was rescued from the monster who owned the puppy mill, she had no socialization to humans, a mouth full of rotted teeth, ears terribly damaged from years of untreated yeast infections, a belly full of mammary tumors, and atrophied hind legs that would barely hold her up. She only walked in circles because she'd been confined to a cage for eight years 24/7. She is still fearful of most humans and probably always will be. If you really care, you'll do some research into licensed puppy mills. Start with the websites I mentioned above. Also look at Humane Society and Last Chance for Animals. There's a wealth of facts available to anyone interested in seeing the real condition in licensed commercial breeding operations.

Phoenix Trying To Restrict Sales at Pet Stores ……Just like Los Angeles and San Diego ….

PHOENIX -- Phoenix could soon follow the lead of Los Angeles and San Diego by restricting sales at pet stores.

On Wednesday, the city council will vote on banning stores from selling dogs and cats obtained from large, commercial breeders, often referred to as "puppy mills."

"They're into quantity, never quality," said council member Thelda Williams. "They treat the puppies horribly."

Williams believes there is enough support among council members to approve the ban and to require stores to only sell dogs and cats they get from shelters and non-profit rescue groups.

"We support local business, we're not putting them out of business," said Williams. "We are giving them an option where they can get dogs. I think if the big stores can survive really well on it, the little ones can too."

Many big retailers, like Phoenix-based PetSmart, work with animal-welfare groups to run adoption programs in their stores. In 2011, Macerich, the company that owns several shopping malls in the Valley, announced it will not renew existing pet store leases.

The proposed ban would not apply to small, local breeders.

If Phoenix councilmembers approve the ordinance, it would take effect in 30 days. Williams said violators could face misdemeanor charges.

"I'm Alive" Puppy Mill Documentary in FULL VERSION …..

Chicagoland Lab Rescue Year In Review …...

2013 Year In Review 

Let's look at the numbers for 2013:

 

237 Dogs Rescued

134 Black Labs

52 Yellow Labs

51 Chocolate Labs

3 Litters of Puppies

75 Tireless Volunteers, Supporters & Donors 

1,903 Facebook Friends

1 Famous Yellow Lab, Buddy

1 Miracle Dog, Anissa

We've had a busy and exciting first full year in operation! On behalf of the CLR Board of Directors, I would like to personally extend my gratitude to everyone who has joined on us on this journey! We are all passionate volunteers with the "One Team, One Dream" mentality. We're in it for the Labs! 

We've had the great opportunity of hosting and attending several events and fundraisers this year.

We'd like to thank everyone who has supported CLR this year! 

*Monthly Meet & Greets at Two Boston's, Jameson Loves Danger, 4 Legs Pet

*CLR's 1st Birthday Bash at A+ Pet Massage & Swimming

*CLR's 1st Annual WoofFest - Highland Park ~organized by Dawn Locascio 

 ~ new graphics and CLR logo designed by Monique Tunney

*Photo Shoot with 5 Labs courtesy of ISO Furry, Ramon Nayar

*Woof & Wine at Jameson Loves Danger 

*Pics with Santa at Jameson Loves Danger, Photos courtesy of rebecca e. eden photography

*Alex Brooks Canine Center - Currently fostering Hermes, the young yellow male Lab who was abandoned at Chicago's Animal Control and is learning to trust humans once again

Recycling Workers Save Garbage PUP …..

When San Francisco Recology staff members went to work on Friday, Dec. 20, 2013, the last thing they thought they would find among the piles of recycling material they sort through on a daily base was a puppy, but against all odds, a 10-month-old Apricot Poodle was saved from dying on the recycling plant’s automatic conveyor belt that leads to a landfill.

According to workers, the puppy was found because the bag she was in started to move on its own.

Gem. Photo Credit: Animal Care and Control

“We could tell the puppy was still moving and it was trying to crawl out of the bag itself,” Recology material handler Gregory Foster told KTVU News. “Luckily we stopped the line in time before it actually fell off the belt into the pit.”

Immediately the recycling plant came to a halt and workers rescued the pup from its death.

San Francisco Animal Care and Control were called and officers came to collect the small dog.

The “garbage” pup was named Gem and she was taken back to Animal Control where veterinarians examined her. It appears Gem has multiple wounds on her neck, consistent with dog bites. She also suffered injuries to her hind legs and there was discharge coming out of her ears.

It is not clear how Gem was hurt, but it is clear that she was abused and deliberately disposed of.

Authorities are encouraging anyone with information regarding Gem’s abuser(s) to come forward. Please contact San Francisco Animal Care and Control at (415) 554-9400.

Gem is now on the road to recovery.

A Deer and Dog Friendship ……...

Facts on Dogs Euthanized Every Year …..

2 million dogs a year are euthanized 

1 million dogs a year are produced

Meet The Mother Of Your Pet Store Puppy !!!

MEET THE MOTHER OF YOUR PET STORE PUPPY:

"My name is 109. I have lived in a puppy mill for 6 1/2 years. I have had 11 litters of puppies and made my owner over $30,000.00. to show his gratitude, he has never bathed or brushed me....he has never placed a kind hand on me. I have never seen a vet or felt grass under my feet. The only time I am out of my 2x3 crate is when i am bred by force. I get a little more food and a cleaner pen when i have my babies. I am happy for awhile but by 4 weeks they take my pups away to sell them online and at pet stores and I am alone again back in my crate. The wire floor in my crate has caused me to have permanent deep painful groves in my pads. My nails are so long I can't walk on a hard surface. Today, we were rescued....I am so scared, but I experienced something I have never heard before.....a soft gentle voice."

http://www.prisonersofgreed.org/

Looking Into The Eyes Of A Dog…….

Happy Neuter Year

Please Spay or neuter your pets !!!

Athletes For Animals Is An Incredible Organization ……..

Our Athlete Ambassadors are a rapidly growing team of professional athletes across a range of sports whose compassion has inspired them to use their public platform to help homeless pets. If you are interested in becoming an Athlete Ambassador, please contact us for more information.

Barret Jackman

Barret Jackman is a solid defensive player and alternate captain for the St Louis Blues. A first round selection (17th overall) by the Blues in 1999, Jackman has enjoyed great success in his twelve years with St Louis. The franchises only Calder Trophy (Rookie of the Year) winner in 2003 and franchise leader in games played by a defenseman, Barret epitomizes what it means to be a loyal warrior. Barret and his wife, Jenny are proud parents of Cayden and McKenna and their two rescued dogs, Tanner and Bailey complete their home. The Jackmans are heavily involved with Stray Rescue, a great no-kill shelter in St Louis. In their work with Stray Rescue, Jenny sits on the board of directors and spends time volunteering on rescues that save dogs from deplorable conditions. Barret is willing to speak out to help companion animals find forever homes and get the treatment they deserve. The Jackmans are mainstays at Stray Rescue events, helping them raise money and awareness with their presence. A great example for our other Athlete Ambassadors to follow, Barret says, “Mistreating or abusing an animal is crime that we need to eliminate. Through our work with Stray Rescue, we have seen how resilient these animals can be and with this organization we can provide them a brighter future.”

David Backes

David Backes is a professional hockey player and captain of the St. Louis Blues. A second round selection (62nd overall), Backes has played over 500 games for the Blues in eight seasons of action. David appeared in the 2010 Winter Olympics with Team USA earning a Silver Medal. After being named to the NHL All-Star Game in 2011, Backes was named the 20th Captain in St Louis Blues history in the off-season. David and his wife Kelly are the founders of Athletes for Animals and first got their start volunteering to walk dogs with Blue Earth Nicollet County Humane Society (BENCHS) while they both attended college at Minnesota State University, Mankato. In 2007 their passion and vision began to grow for the future of animal welfare, when they settled in St. Louis and began to work closely with Five Acres Animal Shelter (Formerly St. Charles Humane Society). They have helped out several organizations in St. Louis and in their home state of Minnesota in a variety of ways; from volunteering and cleaning kennels, fostering dogs, serving as board members, appearing at fundraisers, speaking publically and educating the public about important matters related to animal welfare. When David received his pilots license in January 2011, he realized they could further their impact nationwide and have helped on several rescue flights, safely transporting adoptable animals. They are excited about the future of Athletes for Animals and the impact this organization will make for companion pets everywhere!

David Perron

David Perron is a dynamic forward in the NHL with the Edmonton Oilers. The first six years of his career he played for the St. Louis Blues where he was chosen to appear in the 2009 Rookie All-Star game and electrified the Blues offense. It was during his time in St. Louis he discovered his compassion for helping animals, by fostering and attending local fundraisers. He now shares his Canadian home with girlfriend Vanessa and their two dogs, Stella and Jack and calico cat named Alice. During the off season, he enjoys spending time at the lake on his boat. David says he is most excited about joining Athletes for Animals to better connect with the community, to establish new relationships with rescue groups and lend his voice to animals in need.

Erik Johnson

Erik Johnson is a solid defensemen in the NHL playing for the Colorado Avalanche. Johnson grew up in Minnesota where he excelled as a hockey player and joined the United States Development Program at age 17. He has represented USA hockey in two under 18 tournaments (2 goal medals), a world junior tournament (bronze), multiple world championships (bronze in 2013) and the 2010 Olympics in Vancouver (Silver). Erik was the first overall pick in the 2006 NHL entry draft and after playing one year at the University of Minnesota he turned pro and joined the St Louis Blues. Erik Johnson has played over 300 NHL games and amassed more than 130 points. In the offseason Erik and his girlfriend Jackie love spending summers in Minnesota with their three dogs, Sebastian and Veda, Golden Retrievers and Gia, a Bernese Mountain Dog. Erik and Jackie say, “Our four dogs are like our kids, we take lots of pride in a holistic and natural approach with their care, to ensure a happy and healthy life for them. With Athletes for Animals we are excited to show others how pets can enrich their lives.”

Jake Long

Jake Long is the offensive team captain and plays a key role as left tackle for the St. Louis Rams. Jake grew up in Michigan where he was a well-rounded three-sport athlete in football, baseball and basketball. Long attended the University of Michigan where he earned All-American honors in both 2006 and 2007. In 2008 he was the first overall selection in the NFL draft by the Miami Dolphins and was named to the Pro-Bowl in 2008, 2009, 2010, and 2011. Jake signed with the St. Louis Rams as a free agent in 2013. Jake and his wife Jackie are college sweethearts and enjoy spending time together at home with their two Labradoodles, Charlie and Lulu. They take pleasure in helping out various charitable organizations and are excited to join the A4A team to help further awareness for companion pets. Jake says, “Our dogs bring Jackie and I so much joy and life into our home, we think everyone should experience that special bond. Our lives are definitely enriched because they are around.”

James Laurinaitis

James Laurinaitis is the middle linebacker for the St. Louis Rams. James is a true warrior, starting in every game of his five year professional career. Hailing from Minnesota, where he also excelled at hockey, James played college football at Ohio State University where he was named an All-American and the nations best defensive player. James and his wife Shelly, also an OSU grad, were married in March of 2013 when their home grew to a total of six, James and his two Rottweiler’s, Titus and Grace, and Shelly and her two Morkie’s, Maya and Louie. James and Shelly find comfort and companionship daily with their four amazing pets. James says, “We wanted to get involved because we know how much our dogs give and receive love, so I want to spread the message that being a responsible pet owner is not an option, it is a necessity.” Their four dogs are also travel-savvy as they make the trek often to their second home in Columbus, Ohio during the offseason. When they’re not watching sports, enjoying time with friends and family, or looking for the next best restaurant in St. Louis, James and Shelly are home relaxing with their dogs. “Playing with our dogs is truly one of our favorite hobbies, joining A4A was a no-brainer for us!”

Kyle McClellan

Kyle McClellan has been a pitcher in the Major Leagues for the last 6 years. A known family man, he and his wife Bridget are blessed with two children and a beautiful Golden Retriever. Kyle is a fierce competitor on the field, spending the first 5 years of his career with the St. Louis Cardinals, taking home a World Series Championship in 2011. McClellan and dog Cammie love playing fetch, time at the lake, going on hunts and just lounging around, he helps out animal organizations in the St. Louis Suburbs by appearing at fundraisers and donating auction items. Kyle says, “Athletes for Animals is a great idea reaching across all sports, so animals, like ours, are well cared for and have a bigger voice.”

Mark Buehrle

Mark Buehrle is a starting pitcher in the MLB for the Toronto Blue Jays. Mark began his career with the Chicago White Sox in 2000, where he pitched a no hitter in 2007 and a perfect game in 2009. He was with the Sox for 11 and a half seasons, before he signed with the Florida Marlins in 2011. He and his wife Jamie were able to start adoption programs in both cities, known as Sox for the Strays and Buehrle’s Buddies. Jamie and Mark are no strangers to the animal welfare world and have become active spokes figures regarding Breed Specific Legislation (BSL) along with many other homeless pet initiatives. They have helped save the lives of hundreds of dogs across the country and are excited to continue their work by using their platform with Athletes for Animals. Together, they are proud parents of two young children, Braden and Brooklyn and share their home with their 4 dogs, Diesel, Drake, Duke, Slater. Slater is their rescued American Staffordshire Terrier and also an aspiring therapy dog. Mark believes that Athletes for Animals will be a great platform for athletes and their families to come together and educate the public on the number of homeless pets in the country everyday and bring attention to BSL that discriminates against breeds of dogs solely on the way they look.

Trevor Cahill

Trevor Cahill is an MLB pitcher for the Arizona Diamondbacks. He represented the United States of America at the 2008 Olympic Games in Beijing where he earned a bronze medal. Cahill started his Major League Baseball career in 2009 with the Oakland A’s and played on the American League All-Star Team in 2010. Trevor and his wife Jessica reside in Scottsdale, AZ and share their home with two adorable French Bulldogs Stella and Elston. Trevor is excited to join Athletes for Animals and aspires to help homeless pets. Trevor says, “My dogs give me unconditional love and I think that everyone should have a chance to experience that. We are excited to get involved with rescue groups here in Arizona and also my home state of California.”

Athletes For Animals …….

St. Louis Rams' James Laurinaitis and his wife Shelly on the route with Gateway Guardian Rescue today helping feed the pups. Animal Welfare has become an issue that everyone from all walks of life are getting involved in. Puppy Millers can't be so stupid that they don't see the writing on the wall. The day and age of mass commercial breeding facilities is coming to an end. This industry was their own demise as they should of self policed themselves rather than turn a blind eye to all the severe cruelty to these poor breeding dogs. The fight is far from over but we are making headway everyday. This is an issue that the AVERAGE CONSUMER wants fixed. Missouri remains the WORST PUPPY MILL STATE IN THE NATION !!!

List of Foods You Should Never Feed Your Dog

Many people assume – mistakenly – that “human food” is safe for their pets. Nothing could be further from the truth! Some human foods can be poisonous to dogs and you need to know what they are. One of the challenges here is that dogs tend to want to eat what they see you eating – and will not just leave alone the things that could harm them.

Here is a list of foods and other substances that should never be fed to dogs and kept out of reach. Please share this list – you can also pin our pic on Pinterest / link to this page.

Xylitol

Xylitol is a sweetener used as an additive and sugar substitute. It is very dangerous to dogs and can cause seizures and liver failure.

Nutmeg

Nutmeg is considered highly toxic to dogs and can kill in amounts safe for humans!

Chocolate

So many people think they are giving their dog a treat by giving it chocolate. It can cause dogs gastrointestinal upset, elevated heart rate and even seizures.

Onions and Garlic

These are toxic to dogs (damaging red blood cells) and often end up given to them inadvertently in leftovers from the table. Be aware also of the many products containing onion powder – including soups and certain baby foods.

Coffee

Raw fish

This can lead to thiamine deficiency in dogs, which can be serious.

Apple seeds

Apricot, cherry, avocado, plum, persimmon and peach stones / pits / seeds

Moldy Food

Certain molds can be life threatening to dogs – so keep them away from moldy foods of all kinds.

Macadamia nuts

These are toxic enough to dogs to make them ill, giving them a kind of fever – but are reported unlikely to be fatal.

- See more at: http://www.lovable-friends.com/list-of-foods-you-should-never-feed-to-dogs/#sthash.kwaHEpg5.dpuf

Way Too Many Euthanized Wonderful Animals ...

Ellen DeGeneres Supports Efforts To Get Missouri Puppy Mills Under Control…...

Ellen and Portia with Wayne Pacelle the head of HSUS after he appeared on her show talking about Puppy Mills and the crisis we have in Missouri with them !!!

Stop Puppy Mills Said The Snowman …...

Canine Heartworm Prevention …...

Why is heartworm prevention so important even in the winter months? Heartworms are transmitted by mosquitos anytime the air temperature is 50'F or greater. The mosquito injects a tiny worm under the dog's skin where it hides from our medications and matures for 60-90 days when it finally enters the blood stream and is killed by the preventatives. That means the January dose of medication is killing worms that were injected in Sept-Oct. Year round monthly prevention is an important part of your pet's healthcare regimine. 

Pictured: canine heart filled with adult heartworms.

A Puppy Mill Dog's Dream …….

Where To FInd The Cutest Dogs …..

Incredible Story of Dog rescue….

Ways To Reduce Your Pet's Cancer Risk ….

3 Ways to Reduce Your Pet's Cancer Risk

BY DR. CAROL MCCONNELL | NOVEMBER 4, 2013

Awareness is a key part of cancer prevention, for people and for pets. In fact, November is Pet Cancer Awareness Month. But what does “awareness” mean when it comes to cancer? It can cover everything from education to fundraising. In my role as chief veterinary officer at Veterinary Pet Insurance, however, my greatest concern is with prevention — specifically, raising awareness of the ways in which you can reduce your pet's cancer risk.

Three Simple Strategies

In 2012, Veterinary Pet Insurance received more than 55,000 claims for pets diagnosed with cancer. That may surprise you, but it’s not news to those of us in the veterinary profession. In fact, cancer is the No. 1 disease-related cause of death in pets.

That’s the bad news. The good news is that there are three things you can do to help reduce that risk:

Thinkstock

Keep your pet lean and fit. More than half of all pets are overweight or obese, a statistic that — not surprisingly — tracks with human health figures. For pets as well as people, obesity is linked to increased incidence of many serious health problems. VPI data shows that close to $20 million in claims are filed every year for conditions and diseases that can be caused by excess weight — many of those for cancer. Your veterinarian can help you learn how to reduce your pet’s weight through proper nutrition, with healthy food and treats offered in appropriate portions, and adequate exercise, such as walking your dog or playing active games with your cat.

Manage environmental risks. Because they share our lives so closely, pets are routinely subjected to substances linked to an increased cancer risk, including secondhand tobacco smoke, landscape chemicals(outside) and fire retardants (inside). Choose chemical-free fertilizer options and products that have not been treated with flame retardants, which have been linked to health problems in both pets and people, and consider giving up smoking — or at least committing to not smoking around your pets.

Know the warning signs. The key to your pet’s health is a regular comprehensive wellness examination by your veterinarian. Catching cancer early through regular veterinary exams could save your pet’s life and could allow for treatment options that may give you both months or even years together that you wouldn’t have had otherwise. Between veterinary visits, conduct your own wellness checks on your pet at least monthly, and make an appointment with your veterinarian to check your pet if you see any of the following:

• Abnormal swellings that persist or continue to grow
• Sores that do not heal
• Unexplained weight loss
• Loss of appetite
• Bleeding or discharge from any body opening
• Offensive odor
• Difficulty eating or swallowing
• Hesitation to exercise or loss of stamina
• Persistent lameness or stiffness
• Difficulty breathing, urinating or defecating

When in doubt, check it out with your veterinarian.

5 Ways To Keep Pet Hair Under Control …...

Fur Free: 5 Ways to Keep Pet Hair Under Control

BY DR. MARTY BECKER | OCTOBER 28, 2013

Thinkstock

I don’t know about you, but keeping the fur off of clothing, furniture and the floor is a never-ending battle at our house. I’m guessing it’s the same way at yours. Over the years, though, I’ve picked up a few fur-busting tips that will help you out if you live with a Fur-rench Bulldog or other hairy housemate.

Brush and Cover

1. Don’t duck your groomingresponsibilities; embrace them. Giving your dog or cat a quick one-minute brushing outdoors or in the garage every day will save time and effort spent dusting, sweeping and vacuuming every week. With a little hair off the dog (or cat) at a time and place of your choosing, you’ll soon see a reduction in the number of fur bombs you find around the house.

Bonus: Your cat won’t hack up as many hairballs for you to step on before you’re fully awake in the morning.

2. Use washable slipcovers to protect your furniture. Nobody wants to sit on a sofa covered in pet hair — not you, not me, not your guests. Invest in a few furniture covers specifically made for the purpose — I’ve seen great ones at Costco — or even use some old sheets. As needed, toss ’em in the laundry and replace with a clean one. Remove them when your mother-in-law visits and voila! Clean furniture.

3. Use throw rugs to protect floors and carpets. Place rugs strategically so they gather the lion’s share of pet fur and help prevent it from spreading throughout the house. You should also have one at each doorway to the outdoors to catch the dust, dirt and debris your pet brings in on his feet and fur. Choose machine-washable rugs with nonskid backing; they’re easy and inexpensive to replace when they become stained or worn out.

4. Keep paws clean. After my dogs have been outdoors, I wipe their feet with a microfiber hand mitt before I let them into the rest of the house. I’m always amazed at how quickly the mitts get dirty, but that just means the rest of the house is staying clean.

5. Call me crazy, but covering up your pet helps, too. After a bath or brushing, dress him in that cute T-shirt you got for him in Vegas — the one that says “Rub my belly for good luck.” If he wears it between grooming sessions, it will help keep the fur on him and off your belongings.

Get Your Pets Picture Taken This Sunday !!!

Sunday is going to be a 

furr-bulous day! We have lots of pets coming down to Savvy Sets to lend their paws in raising money for the Humane Society of Missouri, Animal House Fund and Stray Rescue of St. Louis. Let us take a 

pet-tacular pic of your fur-baby and create a holiday card or photo gift, all for just $50. $20 of that will go directly to your charity of choice. Call us at 314-612-0102 to let us know when you'll be stopping by! 

Savvy Sets. 1136 Washington Avenue, #601. Stl MO 63101. Call us ahead of time at 314-612-0102 to set up an appointment!

This Effects All Animal Protection Laws in Missouri…...

• • Saturday,January 4, 2014

• YOUR PC-USE THIS LINK TO CALL AND EMAIL YOUR LEGISLATORShttps://secure.humanesociety.org/si...

• 
  

  DON'T LET THEM OVERTHROW ALL ANIMAL PROTECTION LAWS. ACT NOW! THE ANIMALS NEED YOU! SHARE THIS EVENT! In an attack on animal welfare laws and states’ rights, the House Agriculture Committee is planning to consider an amendment to the Farm Bill sought by Rep. Steve King (R-IA) that could negate most state and local laws regarding the production or manufacturing of agriculture products. This provision could wipe out numerous farm animal protection laws, including those regarding factory farm confinement, horse slaughter, and shark finning, along with other laws related to environmental protection, worker safety, and more. TAKE ACTION: Please make a brief, polite phone call to your U.S. Representative urging opposition to the King Amendment. You can say: "As a constituent concerned about preventing cruelty to animals, I'm calling to urge you to oppose the King Amendment to the Farm Bill, which could slash protections for animals. Please oppose this attack on states’ rights."

Darling Stuff Animals Benefit Animal House !!!

Adopt Buttons and Bows

Not ready to adopt a cat just yet? Then “adopt” toy kittens Buttons and Bows!

This holiday season, symbolically adopt these 6-inch plush kittens as a gift for yourself or your friends.

Your $25 “adoption” donation will help the more than 200 cats and kittens who are waiting for their forever homes at Animal House in St. Louis.

Choose Buttons, Bows or both!

Buttons is a 6-inch stuffed Siamese and Bows is a 6-inch stuffed calico.

For your $25 per-toy donation, we’ll package your plush kitten toy(s) and ship First Class mail anywhere within the 48 contiguous states via the U.S. Postal Service.

A few reminders: Your gift to Animal House is tax-deductible minus the fair-market value of the plush toys, which retail for $8.50 each. Offer good while supplies last. And be sure to follow us onFacebook!

Choose your plush kitten:

Buttons $25.00 USD Bows $25.00 USD One of each $50.00 USD

Adoption Days and Hours

Wednesday: 1 p.m.-7 p.m.;

Thursday, Friday and Saturday:
11 a.m.-3 p.m.

Or feel free to email a request
for an adoption appointment
that will better fit your schedule:
volunteer@animalhousefund.org

Shelter Location

2151 59th Street
St. Louis, Missouri 63110
(Just about a block southeast of
Hampton Avenue at Interstate 44,
on The Hill)

Contact Us

volunteer@animalhousefund.org

Why To Adopt Instead Of Buy Your Next Pet …..

ADOPTING INSTEAD OF BUYING A PET

• While estimates vary, approximately three to four million dogs and cats are euthanized (“put to sleep”) each year in the United States because too few people spay or neuter the pets they have, too few adopt their new pets, and too many give up their pets.
• By adopting a pet from an animal shelter or rescue group, you'll help save the lives of two animals—the pet you adopt and a homeless animal that can be rescued because of space you make available.
• Animal shelters and rescue groups have plenty of healthy, well-behaved animals waiting for a home.
• Adopting a pet from an animal shelter is much less expensive than buying a pet.
• Although many shelters and rescue groups have purebred animals, an adopted mixed-breed pet may be healthier than a purebred pet and, therefore, cost less overall.
• If you’re thinking of adding a pet to your household, there are many good reasons to adopt instead of buy one.

You'll Save Lives

While the estimates vary, approximately three to four million dogs and cats are euthanized (“put to sleep”) each year in the United States because too few people spay or neuter the pets they have, too few adopt their new pets, and too many give up their pets. Because space at shelters is limited, staff members must make the difficult decision to euthanize healthy animals that aren’t adopted within a certain amount of time.

The number of euthanized animals could be reduced greatly if more people adopted pets instead of buying them. By adopting from an animal shelter or rescue group, you'll help save the lives of two animals—the pet you adopt and a homeless animal that can be rescued because of space you make available.

You'll Get a Great Pet

Animal shelters and rescue groups have plenty of healthy, well-behaved animals waiting for a home. Most shelters examine and vaccinate animals when they arrive, and many shelters spay or neuter them before adoption. In addition to providing medical care, more and more shelters and rescue groups screen animals for specific temperaments (“personality” characteristics) and behaviors to match pets with prospective owners.

It is a common belief that animals end up in shelters because they were abused or behaved badly. In truth, most animals in shelters are there because of “people reasons”: divorce, moving, lack of time, and financial constraints are among the most common reasons why pets lose their homes. Adopted pets are just as loving, intelligent, and loyal as purchased pets.

You'll Save Money

Adopting a pet from an animal shelter is much less expensive than buying a pet at a pet store or through other sources. Buying a pet can easily cost $500 to $1000 or more; adoption costs range from $50 to $200. In addition, animals from many shelters are already spayed or neutered and vaccinated, which makes the shelter’s fee a bargain. 

Although many shelters and rescue groups have purebred animals, an adopted mixed-breed pet may be healthier than a purebred pet (purebred pets are more likely to have genetic problems) and, therefore, cost less overall.

You Won’t Support Puppy or Kitten Mills

Puppy and kitten mills are factory-style breeding facilities that put profit above the welfare of animals. Most animals raised in these mills are housed in poor conditions with improper medical care. They are often in poor health and have ongoing behavior and health problems due to lack of human companionship and inbreeding. Mill animals are sold to unsuspecting consumers in pet stores, over the Internet, and through newspaper classified advertisements.

By adopting instead of buying a pet, you can be certain that you aren't supporting puppy or kitten mills.

You Can Choose a Pet of Any Age

Although puppies and kittens are cute, they can require a lot of work to train. An adult or older pet that is already trained may be a better fit for your lifestyle. For example, adopting an adult dog that is already housetrained and knows basic commands is often much easier than adopting a puppy.

You’re Likely to Have a Support System

Most pet stores don’t provide any support if you have questions or problems with your new pet. However, rescue groups do provide support for new owners because keeping pets in good homes is in the best interest of these groups.

Search for adoptable pets on Web sites like Petfinder.com and theshelterpetproject.org or contact your local shelter for adoptable pets in your area.

Dog Snuggled Up To Baby Jesus……..

Here is a heart warming photo from the news in Sana Catarina, Brasil.

A Nativity Scene was erected in a church yard.

During the night the folks came across this scene.

An abandoned dog was looking for a comfortable, protected place to

Sleep. He chose baby Jesus as his comfort. No one had the heart to

Send him away so he was there all night.

We should all have the good sense of this dog and curl up in Jesus'

lap from time to time