Our Place to Paws Blog - Visit our Site online at www.ourplacetopaws.com!

Franklin the Former Feral Cat, recovering from surgery to remove an ear polyp

2012-01-31T15:26:00.001-08:00

You will not go to the gym. You will feed me.

2012-01-12T13:26:00.001-08:00

Action Alert: Your Help Needed to Protect the Pryor Mustangs

2012-01-04T12:55:00.001-08:00

BLM Sets Sights on Cloud's Herd Once Again
Dear Cloud and Pryor Wild Horse Defenders;

The BLM is proposing another significant removal of wild horses on the Pryor Mountains. I know. Just when you thought it was safe... they’re back!

BLM’s recently released Environmental Assessment (EA) seeks to remove via bait trapping and potentially water trapping, 30 young Pryor mustangs, ages 1-3 years. Bait and/or water trapping could begin as early as mid-January. Comments are due by January 6, 2012. We urge you to comment and to support the NO Action Alternative, the only alternative that keeps a viable population of horses on the mountain.

Cloud's yearling daughter, Breeze, is just one of the
horses that could be removed in 2012
Here are the points we feel you may want to mention in your remarks. Make sure to use your own words.

Making decisions on a 30 horse removal now could put the Pryor Wild Horse Herd in jeopary of a die-off. Natural mortality in the winter of 2011-2012 is an unknown. The number of foals to be born and survive in 2012 is also unknown.
The population of the Pryor Wild Horse Herd is currently stable with only 150 animals one year of age or older. According to Gus Cothran, PhD, the foremost equine geneticist in the U.S., "A census population size of 150-200 is required to achieve the minimum effective population size (usually 1/4 to 1/3 of the of the total population)." Currently, the Pryor population is at this bare minimum level.
In 2011 there was no population growth. Births equaled deaths—18 births versus 18 deaths.
Removing 30 young horses in one year alone is risky, unnecessary and threatens the genetic viability of the herd, diminishing their ability to survive into the future.
We urge BLM to wait and see what winter brings as far as mortality, and what the foal crop looks like in August of 2012. Late summer would be the time to assess herd growth and health as well as range health and decide on whether removals are really necessary.
No details have been provided in this EA regarding the disposition of young horses once they are caught, other than their transport to the Britton Springs corrals at the base of the mountain. What then? Where and when would the young horses be available for adoption? These details need to be revealed to the public.
There are no criteria cited which ensure that young horses with narrow genetic representation in the herd, unique or underrepresented colors and markings, and rigorous physical characteristics (i.e. size, health) would be retained on the range. Consideration must be given to these removal criteria to ensure that the "best" are left on the range in order for the herd to perpetuate itself into the future.
Urge BLM to adopt the No Action Alternative.

Jasper (left) is the only male descendant of the stallion Starman, while Jewel (right) is a unique pale buckskin.
Both could be removed in 2012.
We are encouraging you to speak up on behalf of this small, isolated, genetically unique, world-famous herd. BLM will not accept emailed comments but feel free to send your comments via email to info@thecloudfoundation.org and please put in the subject line, "Pryor EA comments." We will print out your emails and mail them with our Foundation comments. Or you can send your letters directly to:

Jim Sparks
Field Manager
BLM Billings Field Office
5001 Southgate Drive
Billings, MT 59101

Cloud's grandson, Echo, represents both unique coloration and rare bloodlines
being one of the only descendants of the late stallion, Mateo.
Thanks for speaking out to ensure that the Pryor herd and Cloud’s family line will continue into the future! Stay tuned for an update on our latest visit.

Happy Trails!Ginger

Copyright (C) 2008 The Cloud Foundation All rights reserved.

Nyaah Nyaah Nyaah...I stole your sun patch!

2011-12-29T16:25:00.000-08:00

Happy Holidays from Our Place to Paws!

2011-12-23T12:38:00.000-08:00

2011-11-15T08:35:00.001-08:00

Franklin the Feral Cat -- Before and After Pics

2011-11-06T16:22:00.000-08:00

Happy Halloween

2011-10-27T14:02:00.000-07:00

World Wildlife Fund Pumpkin

You go, Toronto (and other Canadian Communities)

2011-10-26T09:00:00.000-07:00

The Toronto City Council has banned the possession, sale, trade and distribution of shark fins and their byproducts within the Toronto City limits. The move comes on the heels of similar prohibitions that have recently been passed in the cities of Brantford, Mississauga and Oakville.

Read more here.

Franklin Celebrates National Feral Cat Day

2011-10-16T13:29:00.001-07:00

Franklin says "thank you" to everyone who helps ferals, and former ferals, like him!

There's Still Time to Take Part in the Biggest National Feral Cat Day Ever

2011-10-14T13:02:00.000-07:00

The big day is almost here—National Feral Cat Day is this Sunday, October 16! How are you going to celebrate?

Join us in showing America’s compassion for cats from coast to coast by participating in National Feral Cat Day 2011. With more than 320 events registered nationwide—far exceeding our goal of 250 events in all 50 states—this will be the biggest National Feral Cat Day in history. Don’t miss out on your chance to be part of it!

Here’s a few ideas of how you can help protect cats’ lives on Sunday (visit http://www.alleycat.org/NFCD for links to each idea!)

Attend an event near you to show your support for humane cat care.

Talk up National Feral Cat Day on your Facebook and Twitter accounts.

If you have a blog, write a post about feral cats, TNR, and/or National Feral Cat Day. Feel free to link to our online resources and add a National Feral Cat Day banner to your website!

Download and hand out materials like posters and truth cards to educate your community about feral cats.

Make a special National Feral Cat Day donation to Alley Cat Allies so we can continue helping cats year round.

Find more ideas and the instructions and information you need to make them happen on our National Feral Cat Day website.

However you decide to improve the lives of cats this weekend, be sure to let us and the entire National Feral Cat Day community know about it. Post about it on Twitter using the hashtag #NFCD2011, tag us in your Facebook posts, and don’t forget to show us your pictures!

Sincerely,
Alley Cat Allies

P.S. Make the biggest National Feral Cat Day ever even bigger! Share this message with your friends.

OCTOBER 16 IS NATIONAL FERAL CAT DAY

2011-09-27T11:00:00.001-07:00

Alley Cat Allies’ national day celebrates strength of the movement to educate communities and protect cats

BETHESDA, MD – The 11th annual National Feral Cat Day is October 16, and Alley Cat Allies, the national advocate for stray and feral cats, is celebrating the broad support seen across the country for humane and effective policies that protect the lives of feral cats.

“Alley Cat Allies launched National Feral Cat Day in 2001 to raise awareness about feral cats, promote Trap-Neuter-Return, and recognize the millions of compassionate citizens who care for cats,” said Becky Robinson, president of Alley Cat Allies. “On National Feral Cat Day and all year round, people all across the country work to draw attention to the cause and press their local leaders for humane policies for feral cats. This is truly a national movement.”

Feral cats live and thrive in every landscape, from urban to rural. Because they are not socialized to people and are not candidates for adoption, feral cats taken to animal shelters are almost always killed. Although many communities have embraced Trap-Neuter-Return—which ends the breeding cycle and stabilizes the population—being killed in an animal shelter remains the leading documented cause of death for cats, Robinson said.

“There is much more work to do to educate our neighbors and leaders about the need to launch humane programs that really work for our communities,” she said.

Robinson noted that America is responding to this need. This year’s National Feral Cat Day is a resounding success, with 250 events planned in all 50 states, Puerto Rico, and Canada, including spay/neuter drives, community celebrations, and workshops that educate neighbors about the best and most humane ways to help cats in the community.

For the first time, Alley Cat Allies also gave awards to a number of local nonprofits across the country for the most creative and innovative community programs, including five “National Feral Cat Day Superstars,” who were awarded $1,000 each for their unique life-saving programs.

A full listing of national events, as well as more information about how people can get involved on National Feral Cat Day, is available at www.alleycat.org/NFCD. Poster, T-shirts, and other fun NFCD-themed items are also available.

###

About Alley Cat Allies

Alley Cat Allies is the only national advocacy organization dedicated to the protection and humane treatment of cats. Founded in 1990, today Alley Cat Allies has more than 260,000 supporters and helps tens of thousands of individuals, communities, and organizations save and improve the lives cats and kittens nationwide. Their web site is www.alleycat.org.

A victory for Cats and Dogs in Toronto

2011-09-23T03:36:00.000-07:00

Here's some great news from Canada -- let's hope some U.S. cities follow suit!

Toronto Council bans pet shop sale of dogs, cats, unless they're from shelters

by Carys Mills

Dogs and cats sold in Toronto pet shops must now come from animal shelters, rescue groups or people giving up animals for free.

Toronto city council voted unanimously on Wednesday to make the changes, which aim to put an end to puppy and kitty mills.

Councillor Glenn De Baeremaeker put forward the motion. He said puppy mills are bad for pets and consumers.

Read more in the Globe and Mail

HSI Applauds European General Court Ruling on Seal Products Ban

2011-09-15T04:43:00.001-07:00

MONTREAL—Humane Society International commended a landmark decision by the European General Court to dismiss a case challenging the 2009 European Union prohibition on trade in products of commercial seal kills. The world’s largest commercial sealing interests, together with fur industry lobby groups and a number of Inuit sealing advocates, put forward the case in 2010.

“This cynical attempt to overturn European law, by those who seek to profit from the mass commercial slaughter of baby seals, has failed,” said Rebecca Aldworth, executive director of Humane Society International/Canada. “This is an important victory for the overwhelming majority of Europeans and Canadians who want the seal slaughter to end, and for the countless seals who will be spared a horrible fate because of this decision. Today’s ruling is yet more evidence that the commercial sealing industry is coming to an end. It is time for the Canadian government to respect Canadian and global opinion and implement a fair plan to compensate sealers and bring the seal slaughter to a final close.”

The dismissed case (T-18/10) was an application to the European Court requesting an annulment of European Parliament and Council Regulation (EC) No 1007/2009, which prohibits the placing on the market of products from commercial seal hunts throughout the European Union. The European Court did not have to reach the merits of the case having found that the applicants were not “directly concerned” by the seals regulation, a key factor in determining whether a legal challenge is admissible.

Case T-526/10, a secondary application by the same group, is still before the Court. It requests an annulment of European Parliament and Council Regulation No 737/2010, which outlines how the ban is enforced.

This ruling comes on the heels of the Canadian government challenge of the EU ban at the World Trade Organization, which has been perceived by many in the EU as a baseless attack on European values and democratic processes. In response, a number of Members of the European Parliament have indicated they are less likely to ratify the pending Canada-European Union Economic and Trade Agreement—a deal reportedly worth $12 billion annually to Canada’s economy—unless Canada withdraws its WTO challenge.

Franklin, the Former Feral, enjoying the good life!

2011-09-13T08:17:00.001-07:00

From the ASPCA: People Saving Pets: Debunking Myths About Homeless Animals

2011-08-26T07:56:00.001-07:00

Myths about homeless pets abound, but the ASPCA is working overtime to counter those misconceptions. You can find the pet of your dreams at an animal shelter. Here are just a few of the many myths that exist about homeless pets: The Myth: I want a purebred animal, but all homeless pets are mixed breeds.
The Truth: In the U.S., an estimated 30 percent of all homeless pets are purebred. Right now, at the ASPCA, we have several purebred pets ready for adoption, including Amber, a purebred Miniature Poodle who adores people and other dogs.

The Myth: Homeless pets must be unwanted for good reasons.
The Truth: Pets end up in shelters for a number of reasons, most of which have nothing to do with the pet. Adoptable pets typically come from loving homes that simply cannot care for them anymore. Or they are strays who’ve been on their own without the loving care they deserve. Homeless pets make great family members!

The Myth: You never know what you’re getting with an adopted pet.

The Truth: While the background of some homeless pets is a mystery, many waiting for homes have long and happy histories with families who simply can no longer care for them.

For information about how we can all help solve pet homelessness and keep debunking the myths, please visit www.peoplesavingpets.org. People Saving Pets is a national campaign to help save the lives of homeless pets in which the ASPCA is a leading partner. Getting involved is easy—visit www.peoplesavingpets.org and share the link with your friends. Just a few simple actions can make a big difference for animals!

ALLEY CAT ALLIES SPONSORS MONESSEN NEUTER CLINIC

2011-08-15T13:40:00.001-07:00

More than 75 cats neutered at day-long clinic; highlights critical need for services

MONESSEN, PA—A total of 78 cats were neutered on Sunday at a day-long veterinary clinic sponsored by Alley Cat Allies, the only national advocacy organization dedicated to the protection and humane treatment of cats. The services were provided at no cost to residents of Monessen, many of whom brought their house cats to be spayed or neutered.

“There is an enormous need for accessible and affordable spay and neuter services for the cats in Monessen, both owned house cats and feral cats in colonies” said Becky Robinson, president of Alley Cat Allies. “We stepped in to help fill this tremendous need.”

Monessen was the subject of much controversy last March after city leaders hired a private trapper to trap cats and bring them to a local shelter where most were immediately killed. The trapping, which was carried out with no prior notice to town residents, resulted in the deaths of dozens of cats. Many of the cats’ caregivers did not discover their fates for nearly a week following the trapping.

“The big turnout for services we saw on Sunday is yet more indication that residents of Monessen don’t support killing—they want humane care for the city’s cats, including Trap-Neuter-Return for feral cats and affordable spay and neuter for all cats,” said Robinson.

Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) ends the breeding cycle, stabilizes the population and helps feral cats lead healthier lives. It also makes the cats better neighbors by ending behaviors associated with mating, like yowling and fighting. Many communities across the country have embraced TNR after realizing that catch and kill is cruel, expensive, and doesn’t achieve its goal.

Still, Robinson noted, being killed in an animal shelter remains the leading documented cause of death for cats nationwide. More than 70 percent of cats brought to shelters are killed there, at enormous expense to taxpayers and shelter donors.

“Trap-Neuter-Return is the only effective course of action for feral cats,” said Robinson. “If Monessen city leaders had invested in spay and neuter, dozens of cats could have been saved.”

“We applaud the local residents who came out today and those who helped to organize this important event. We hope city leaders are paying attention and are finally ready to be responsive to the needs of the community,” Robinson said.

So much for bringing the towels upstairs!

2011-08-15T03:53:00.001-07:00

Updating the Paws website

2011-08-06T13:46:00.000-07:00

If you're a regular follower of Our Place to Paws, you've probably realized that besides updates on this blog, we haven't been posting new information on the main website for a number of months. Our Place to Paws has always been a labor of love, and as finances ran out and advertising failed to come in, we had to make the decision to let the site lie dormant for now. We have a great Facebook Group that anyone can join for regular updates of animal news, photos, and other fun tid-bits, and we are hoping to update the website again in the coming weeks or months. For now, we hope the information that's already available is still useful to anyone who stops by to visit. And we'll keep updating the blog, of course!

Nestlé Purina Recalls Limited Number of Purina ONE Vibrant Maturity 7+ Dry Cat Food Bags Due to a Potential Health Risk

2011-07-31T06:56:00.001-07:00

Contact:
Consumer:
Nestlé Purina PetCare Office of Consumer Affairs:
1-800-982-6559
Media:
Keith Schopp
314-982-2577

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - July 29, 2011 - Nestlé Purina PetCare Company (NPPC) is voluntarily recalling a limited number of 3.5- and 7-pound bags of its Purina ONE Vibrant Maturity 7+ Dry Cat Food from a single production run and shipped to customers in 12 states in December 2010. This is being done because some bags of the product have been found to be contaminated with Salmonella. Only Purina ONE Vibrant Maturity 7+ Dry Cat Food with both the “Best By” date and the production code shown are included in this voluntary recall :

Product Name	Bag size	“Best By” Date & Production Code*	Bag UPC Code
Purina ONE Vibrant Maturity 7+	3.5 lb.	MAY 2012 03341084	17800 01885
Purina ONE Vibrant Maturity 7+	3.5 lb.	MAY 2012 03351084	17800 01885
Purina ONE Vibrant Maturity 7+	7 lb.	MAY 2012 03341084	17800 01887
Purina ONE Vibrant Maturity 7+	7 lb.	MAY 2012 03351084	17800 01887

*”Best By” Date and Production Code are found on the back or bottom of the bag.

No additional Purina cat or dog products are involved in this voluntary recall. No other Purina ONE brand products are involved. Only Purina ONE Vibrant Maturity 7+ brand products which match the “Best By” dates and production code above are included in this recall.

Consumers who have purchased Purina ONE Vibrant Maturity 7+ Dry Cat Food products with these specific “Best By” Date and Production Codes should discontinue feeding the product and discard it.
Salmonella can affect animals eating the product, and there is a risk to humans from handling contaminated products. People handling contaminated dry pet food can become infected with Salmonella, especially if they have not thoroughly washed their hands after having contact with surfaces exposed to this product. Healthy people infected with Salmonella should monitor themselves for the following symptoms: nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal cramping and fever. Rarely, Salmonella can result in more serious ailments including arterial infections, endocarditis, arthritis, muscle pain, eye irritation and urinary tract symptoms. Consumers exhibiting these signs after having contact with this product should contact their healthcare providers.

Pets with Salmonella infections may exhibit decreased appetite, fever and abdominal pain. If left untreated, pets may be lethargic and have diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, fever and vomiting. Infected but otherwise healthy pets can be carriers and infect other animals or humans. If you pet has consumed the recalled product and has these symptoms, please contact your veterinarian.

The product was distributed to customers located in California, Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, North Dakota, Nebraska, Ohio and Wisconsin, who may have further distributed the product to other states.

Nestlé Purina PetCare Company became aware of the contamination as a result of samples that had been collected in several retail stores.

At Nestlé Purina PetCare, the safety and efficacy of our products are our top priority. We apologize for any inconvenience due to this voluntary recall. For further information or to obtain a product refund, please call NPPC toll-free at 1-800-982-6559 or visit www.purina.com.

PROGRESSIVE SOCIAL CHANGE VETERAN BRITT COCANOUR NAMED EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF ALLEY CAT ALLIES

2011-07-26T10:52:00.001-07:00

Alley Cat Allies, the only national advocacy organization dedicated to the protection and humane treatment of cats, announced that Britt Cocanour has been named executive director of the organization. Cocanour, a veteran campaign strategist and leader for progressive social change initiatives, will join Alley Cat Allies co-founder Becky Robinson, president, and Donna Wilcox, former executive director and current vice president, in forging a new path in the national movement to protect and improve the lives of cats.

“We are thrilled that Britt has joined us at this critical moment in our organization’s history,” said Robinson. “After more than 20 years of bringing humane programs like Trap-Neuter-Return to cities across the country, we are now ready to begin a new chapter in our organization’s mission.

“Britt’s leadership will be essential as we focus national attention on the fact that being killed in an animal shelter is the leading documented cause of death to cats—and as we work to replace these failed policies with a transformed system that respects the lives of cats and is truly responsive to the community’s needs,” said Robinson.

Cocanour brings more than 15 years of extensive nonprofit management and strategic leadership skills to Alley Cat Allies. She was previously chief of staff at EMILY’S List, the nation’s largest financial resource for women running for office, where she managed a staff of 60 and a budget of $35 million.

Cocanour was also the founder of EMILY’S List Political Opportunity Program, which has trained over 5,000 women to run for state and local office and helped elect hundreds. She holds a B.A. from Bowling Green State University in political science.

“As someone passionate and committed to the cause of animal protection and respect for the lives of cats, I am excited to join Alley Cat Allies and help expand our influence and public presence as we embark on this transformational new mission,” said Cocanour.

Founded in 1990, Alley Cat Allies is the recognized global expert on Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR), the only effective and humane approach to feral cats in the community. Leadership and advocacy by Alley Cat Allies has inspired dozens of cities across the U.S., including Washington, D.C., Baltimore, and Chicago, to embrace TNR over failed, outdated catch and kill policies.

The organization employs a staff of 30 in its Bethesda, Maryland headquarters.

Paco to the rescue! One brave little dog!

2011-07-19T09:02:00.001-07:00

New Hope for the Snow Leopard

2011-07-17T12:36:00.000-07:00

A "surprisingly healthy" population of rare snow leopards has been discovered in the remote northeastern stretches of Afghanistan, one of the few areas largely unaffected by the near decade-long war in the country.
Researchers photographed the elusive big cat using camera traps at 16 different locations across Afghanistan's mountainous Wakhan Corridor, according to a recent report from the World Conservation Society.
The images are the first camera trap records of snow leopards in Afghanistan, the organization noted. Read more at CNN here.

Pet guardians: Do not leave your dogs or other pets in the car!

2011-07-12T10:59:00.000-07:00

Every year we read terrible stories about dogs left in cars with just the windows cracked open, even when it's brutally hot outside. Please don't leave your dogs in the car! A car can heat up to dangerous levels rapidly, even when the windows are open, leaving your pets in grave distress and endangering their lives.

Read this news story for more information! Take care of your beloved friends. DON'T LEAVE THEM IN THE CAR!

2011-07-06T09:24:00.001-07:00

It's nice to read about something that goes right

2011-06-29T16:35:00.001-07:00

Mating Turtles Shut Down Runway at JFK

2011-06-11T15:45:00.001-07:00

Memorial Day Morning

2011-05-30T06:15:00.001-07:00

2011-05-27T12:51:00.001-07:00

2011-04-02T15:57:00.001-07:00

Caught in the act at the feral cat feeder

2011-03-27T09:30:00.000-07:00

Pet owners cautioned against giving potassium iodide to animals

2011-03-18T07:40:00.001-07:00

March 17, 2011

Pet owners anticipating the possible movement to the West Coast of radioactive material from Japan’s damaged nuclear power plants should not give their dogs, cats or other pets potassium iodide tablets, cautions a UC Davis veterinary cancer researcher.

"At this point there is no risk to pets in California stemming from radiation released from the tragedy that continues to unfold in Japan," said Michael Kent, a faculty veterinarian who specializes in radiation cancer therapy.

He noted that UC Davis’ William R. Pritchard Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital has been receiving dozens of phone calls daily this week from pet owners concerned about possible radiation health risks to their pets.

“While potassium iodide might help protect dogs, cats and other pets, as it would people, from the risks of radiation exposure in the unlikely event that radioactive iodine reaches here in appreciable levels, giving it ahead of time carries risks and would be ill advised,” Kent said.

He cautioned that side effects for pets taking potassium iodide — especially if they consume too much — include severe allergic reactions; gastrointestinal upsets including vomiting, diarrhea and anorexia; decreased normal thyroid function; and damage to the heart. At high enough levels, potassium iodide can even cause death.

His recommendations mirror a March 15 public advisory from the California Department of Public Health, which warned Californians to not take potassium iodide as a precautionary measure: http://www.cdph.ca.gov/Pages/Default.aspx.

Kent is available to talk with news media today, Thursday, March 17, from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. at the Center for Companion Animal Health, adjacent to the William R. Pritchard Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital. Reporters should call ahead to arrange interview times.
About UC Davis

For more than 100 years, UC Davis has engaged in teaching, research and public service that matter to California and transform the world. Located close to the state capital, UC Davis has more than 32,000 students, more than 2,500 faculty and more than 21,000 staff, an annual research budget that exceeds $678 million, a comprehensive health system and 13 specialized research centers. The university offers interdisciplinary graduate study and more than 100 undergraduate majors in four colleges — Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, Biological Sciences, Engineering, and Letters and Science. It also houses six professional schools — Education, Law, Management, Medicine, Veterinary Medicine and the Betty Irene Moore School of Nursing.
Media contact(s):

* Pat Bailey, UC Davis News Service, (530) 752-9843, pjbailey@ucdavis.edu

2011-03-16T06:08:00.001-07:00

Snowflake heads to her new home

2011-03-11T15:05:00.001-08:00

Snowflake, the cat we rescued from the cold, icy New England winter this year (she was living under our deck) heads to her new home today. A couple has decided to adopt her. We can't call it a "forever home" until they take the necessary time to allow her to adapt to their home and be introduced to their own cat, Bogie. If all goes well over the next few weeks and Snowflake settles in and gets along with Bogie, she will have a wonderful new home.

It's very sad to see her go, though. After having a cat in your home for a month (and seeing her outdoors for months before that), you of course feel as if the cat is part of your family. In our case, we have four other cats and they just weren't prepared to fully accept a fifth. We know it's best for Snowflake, our cats, and us if Snowflake finds a home with more space, fewer cats, and more attention that can be devoted to her. But it doesn't make it easy to see her go.

Hats off to all of the great volunteers out there who foster cats, dogs, and other animals for animal rescue organizations, giving them temporary, loving, and comfortable homes while they wait for forever homes. I've learned how difficult the job can be when you have to let them go! But you do it knowing that you prevented suffering and saved a life; and what could be better than that?

We wish you a happy life full of love, Snowflake!

UTAH LEGISLATORS REVIVE BILL PROVISION TO LEGALIZE SHOOTING OF CATS

2011-02-28T14:00:00.000-08:00

Alley Cat Allies calls on supporters to oppose dangerous legislation

BETHESDA, MD — Alley Cat Allies, the national advocate for stray and feral cats, today renewed calls to oppose legislation that would legalize the shooting of cats in Utah.

Utah House Bill 210 was amended on the floor of the Utah House of Representatives, after the House Judiciary Committee removed earlier language that allowed for the shooting or killing of cats when that version was roundly criticized for endorsing animal cruelty. The amended version would still permit the shooting of cats in rural areas of the state. Feral cats are currently protected under Utah anti-cruelty law.

“This dangerous legislation imperils the lives of all cats—pet, stray and feral,” said Becky Robinson, president of Alley Cat Allies. “It is barbaric and essentially declares ‘open-season’ on any outdoor cat.

“Feral cats exist in every landscape—from rural to urban. Feral cats are not a threat to people—in fact, they are just as healthy as pet cats. It is irrational, dangerous, and in direct opposition to society’s values to endorse shooting cats,” she said.

Feral cats are domestic cats, but unlike pets, they are not socialized to people and are therefore unadoptable. Numerous communities across the U.S. have adopted Trap-Neuter-Return as official policy for feral cats after decades of the failure of catch and kill.

Robinson noted that all cats are protected under anti-cruelty statutes in all 50 states and the District of Columbia.

“Anti-cruelty laws have existed for over a hundred years to protect animals and our communities from violent people,” she said.

Alley Cat Allies is urging supporters to contact their lawmakers to stop House Bill 210 by visiting www.alleycat.org/ActionCenter. To learn more about how feral cats are protected under anti-cruelty laws, visit www.alleycat.org/AntiCruelty.

# # #

About Alley Cat Allies

Alley Cat Allies is the nation’s leading advocate for stray and feral cats. Their web site is www.alleycat.org.

Snowflake Needs A Home! (Boston area)

2011-02-18T15:23:00.000-08:00

SNOWFLAKE

Snowflake was seen in our yard for at least a year before we took her into our home to spare her being outdoors during this difficult winter. The Cat Connection trapped her about a year ago and had her spayed, tested and vaccinated, but because she was an adult considered too old to be tamed, she was returned to the neighborhood, where we think she was living under someone else's deck. For the past few weeks, she has been coming into our yard and we have been feeding her wet food. She became so friendly and tame that we started to pick her up, pet her, and eventually bring her indoors.

Snowflake has since had another veterinary appointment. She is perfectly healthy and is negative for FIV/leukemia. She seems completely comfortable with people once she gets used to them (at first when a stranger comes here to meet her, she is nervous and hides for a while, because the first time strangers came into our home to see her, they stuffed her in a cat carrier and took her to the vet!). Once she knows you and is comfortable, she loves to be picked up and cuddled, and to play with toys. She loves company and would probably be happiest in a home with another friendly, playful cat, and where she wasn't left totally alone all day. She purrs a lot and is very playful. She uses her litter box and tolerates the other cats in the household well. We think she is about two years old, but she plays like a kitten.

Snowflake is so sweet that we wish we could keep her, but we already have four cats, and one of them is older and doesn't want us to add a fifth to the mix. So we are looking for a loving, happy home for this pretty girl who deserves a forever home.

Email OurPlacetoPaws(at)aol.com if you are interested in giving a loving, happy, indoor home to this pretty cat!

Today's Dose of Cute

2011-02-16T05:39:00.001-08:00

2011-02-12T15:40:00.001-08:00

ALLEY CAT ALLIES RESPONDS TO FEDERAL AGENCY PLAN TO “TRAP AND REMOVE” CATS IN THE FLORIDA KEYS

2011-02-04T12:50:00.000-08:00

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Environmental Assessment is based on flawed science, would result in cats’ deaths

BETHESDA, MD — Alley Cat Allies, the national advocate for stray and feral cats, said a proposed plan by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to trap and remove cats in the Florida Keys National Wildlife Refuges will not succeed in protecting other species and will result in cats’ deaths.

In comments submitted to the agency, Alley Cat Allies said the plan is not viable, nor is it based on good science.

“As animal advocates, we want what is best for all the animals of the Florida Keys. Unfortunately, the Fish and Wildlife Service Draft Environmental Assessment is not it,” said Alley Cat Allies president Becky Robinson.

“The plan is based on a deeply flawed interpretation of Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) research and several studies were omitted. Similar plans by the agency have already killed feral, stray and pet cats, with no benefit whatsoever,” she said.

Alley Cat Allies also notes that the agency relies on highly biased sources in criticizing TNR, and that it ignores a successful and ongoing TNR program just miles from the refuges in Key Largo.

The plan relies on “trap and remove” for cats—a costly and inefficient approach that has already failed in the Florida Keys and elsewhere.

“The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is misleading the public by not acknowledging that the cats will be killed. It calls it a ‘trap and remove’ plan, but trapped cats will be brought to the local shelter where they will be killed,” said Robinson.

Feral cats are not socialized to people and are therefore not adoptable. Virtually 100 percent of feral cats who are brought to shelters are killed there.

To download a full-text version of the comments submitted by Alley Cat Allies to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, , visit www.alleycat.org.

# # #

About Alley Cat Allies

Alley Cat Allies is the nation’s leading advocate for stray and feral cats. Their web site is www.alleycat.org.

If you would rather not receive future communications from Alley Cat Allies, let us know by clicking here.
Alley Cat Allies, 7920 Norfolk Avenue, Suite 600, Bethesda, MD 20814 United States

Winter Pet Safety Tips

2011-01-31T08:33:00.001-08:00

From the Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency:

“As the harsh winter months settle in, it is important that you think about keeping your pets safe from all of the dangers that the season can present,” states Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) Acting Director Kurt Schwartz. “MEMA offers some tips to help insure your pet’s safety.”

• Do not leave your pet outdoors when temperatures drop below freezing. Dogs need outdoor exercise, but take care not to keep them outdoors for lengthy periods of time during very cold weather. Pets that are mostly indoors need time to adapt to cold temperatures by building up a thicker coat and toughening their footpads for ice and snow. Short-coated dogs may feel more comfortable wearing a sweater during walks. Dogs and cats are safer indoors during all sorts of extreme weather.

• Care for your pet’s feet. If your pet walks on salted or chemically treated areas, be sure to wash its paws after your walk. Gently rub the bottom of the feet to remove these irritants as soon as your dog is off the road. Many dogs need boots in cold weather, regardless of their coat length. If your dog frequently lifts up its paws, whines or stops during walks, it may be demonstrating that its feet are uncomfortably cold.

• Wind-chill is a threat to pets, even those protected by shelters. Outdoor dogs must be protected by a dry, draft-free doghouse that is large enough to allow the dog to both sit and lie down comfortably, but small enough to retain body heat. The floor should be elevated a few inches off the ground and covered with cedar shavings or straw. The entrance of the doghouse should be turned to face away from prevailing winds, and the entrance should be covered with a flap of heavy waterproof fabric or heavy plastic.

• Pets who spend a greater amount of time outdoors in the winter need more food. Maintaining warmth depletes energy. Routinely check your pet’s water dish to ensure the water is fresh and not frozen. To prevent your pet’s tongue from freezing to its feeding or drinking bowl, plastic, rather than metal food and water bowls are preferred.

• Never leave a pet locked inside a car during extremely cold weather. Cars can actually act like a refrigerator, holding in cold air, putting your pet at risk.

• Be leery of frozen bodies of water. Always keep your pets on a leash when walking them near suspected frozen bodies of water. The ice may not be sturdy enough to support your pet. If a pet falls through the ice, do not attempt to rescue your pet yourself; call 9-1-1 or go for help.

• Antifreeze and de-icing chemicals can be hazardous. Many types of antifreeze have a sweet taste that can attract animals. Always store antifreeze out of reach and clean up spills. Antifreeze made with propylene glycol can actually be swallowed in small amounts and not injure pets, wildlife or humans.

• Warm automobile engines are dangerous for cats and small wildlife. Parked vehicles can attract small animals, which may crawl under the hood seeking warmth. To avoid injuring hiding animals, bang on your car’s hood to scare them off before starting your engine.

For additional information about keeping your pets safe, go to the State of Massachusetts Animal Response Team (SMART) website at www.smart-mass.org.

2011-01-25T06:38:00.001-08:00

2011-01-16T06:42:00.001-08:00

2011-01-13T05:16:00.001-08:00

Can Someone Help This Little Dog?

2010-12-26T10:45:00.001-08:00

Update: As far as we know, she's been rescued!

ADORABLE LITTLE SCHIPPERKE MIX AT York County AC (in York, SC) ONLY HAS UNTIL TUESDAY @ 5pm! NOTE: THE SHELTER IS CLOSED UNTIL MONDAY!

This cute little Schip mix, only 10 months old, has been waiting a long time - still here but Tuesday is IT for her! Can’t anyone help her??? (Local transport help available to get her to boarding or... foster)

“I would love to go home with you! Black dogs are the last to be adopted - PLEASE save me!”
ID#A043659 - 10 MONTHS, UNALTERED FEMALE, SMALL BLACK SCHIPPERKE MIX -
DUE OUT BY 12/28/10*
CONTACT: TRACY MORGAN - tracy.morgan@yorkcountygov.com
PATTI PHILLIPS patti.phillips@yorkcountygov.com
TANYA DELLINGER tanya.dellinger@yorkcountygov.com
MISSY JOHNSTON missy.johnston@yorkcountygov.com

Please refer to the animal’s I.D. number when contacting the shelter!
803-628-3190 or 803-818-6500

http://www.yorkcountygov.com/

The following are standard criteria:

1. The animal has had a health check at the time they were selected for rescue, with any abnormalities noted listed in the electronic kennel record.
2. The animal appeared to be amicable towards people, other dogs and cats at the time that they were selected for rescue.
3. Other notable criteria, if any (such as basic obedience skills, appears house trained, etc.) will have been noted in the electronic kennel record.

If there is an asterisk (*) after the "DUE OUT BY" date, this indicates there is additional information regarding this animal that you may find helpful

Please contact us at (803) 628-3190 if you wish this additional information.
All information provided regarding an animal should be considered a "snapshot" window in time, to the best of our abilities, in a high intake (KILL) shelter environment.

Kroger Recalls Pet Foods Due to Possible Health Risk

2010-12-22T17:01:00.001-08:00

Recall -- Firm Press Release

FDA posts press releases and other notices of recalls and market withdrawals from the firms involved as a service to consumers, the media, and other interested parties. FDA does not endorse either the product or the company.

Contact:
Denise Osterhues
(513) 762-1304

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CINCINNATI, Ohio, - December 18, 2010 - The Kroger Co. said today it is recalling select packages of pet food sold in some of its retail stores because the products may contain aflatoxin, which poses a health risk to pets.

Kroger stores in the following states are included in this recall: Alabama, Arkansas, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Louisiana, Michigan, Mississippi, Missouri, North Carolina, Ohio, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia and West Virginia.

The recall also includes Dillons and Gerbes stores in Kansas and Missouri; Baker’s stores in Nebraska; Food 4 Less stores in Nebraska, Illinois and Indiana (Chicago area); and Jay C, Hilander, Owen’s, Pay Less and Scott’s stores in Illinois and Indiana.

Stores the company operates under the following names are not included in this recall: Ralphs, Fred Meyer, Fry’s, King Soopers, Smith’s, QFC, City Market, Foods Co., and Food 4 Less stores in California and Nevada.

Kroger is recalling the following items:

* Pet Pride Cat Food sold in 3.5 lb. packages with a sell by date of OCT 23 11 DP and OCT 24 11 DP under the following UPC code: 1111088128
* Pet Pride Cat Food sold in 18 lb. packages with a sell by date of OCT 23 11 DP and OCT 24 11 DP under the following UPC code: 1111071357
* Pet Pride Tasty Blend Poultry & Seafood Cat Food sold in 3.5 lb. packages with a sell by date of OCT 23 11 DP and OCT 24 11 DP under the following UPC code: 1111088152
* Pet Pride Tasty Blend Poultry & Seafood Cat Food sold in 18 lb. packages with a sell by date of OCT 23 11 DP and OCT 24 11 DP under the following UPC code: 1111074580
* Pet Pride Kitten Formula Food sold in 3.5 lb. packages with a sell by date of OCT 23 11 DP and OCT 24 11 DP under the following UPC code: 1111071903
* Old Yeller Chunk Dog Food sold in 22 lb. packages with a sell by date of OCT 23 11 DP and OCT 24 11 DP under the following UPC code: 1111074566
* Old Yeller Chunk Dog Food sold in 50 lb. packages with a sell by date of OCT 23 11 DP and OCT 24 11 DP under the following UPC code: 1111074563
* Kroger Value Cat Food sold in 3 lb. packages with a sell by date of OCT 23 11 DP and OCT 24 11 DP under the following UPC code: 1111000018
* Kroger Value Chunk Dog Food sold in 15 lb. packages with a sell by date of OCT 23 11 DP and OCT 24 11 DP under the following UPC code: 1111071559
* Kroger Value Chunk Dog Food sold in 50 lb. packages with a sell by date of OCT 23 11 DP and OCT 24 11 DP under the following UPC code:1111000108

Aflatoxin is a naturally-occurring toxic chemical by-product from the growth of the fungus Aspergillus flavus on corn and other crops. If your pet shows any symptoms of illness, including sluggishness or lethargy combined with a reluctance to eat, yellowish tint to the eyes and/or gums, and severe or bloody diarrhea, please consult your veterinarian immediately.

The safety of our customers and their pets is important to Kroger. The company is using its Customer Recall Notification system to alert customers who may have purchased these recalled products through register receipt tape messages and automated phone calls. Customers who have purchased a recalled item should not use it and should return it to a store for a full refund or replacement.

Customers who have questions about this recall may contact Kroger toll-free at (800) 632-6900. For more information, please visit www.kroger.com/recalls9.

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RSS Feed for FDA Recalls Information10 [what's this?11]

The Leaning Tower of Glower

2010-12-18T07:28:00.001-08:00

2010-12-14T18:47:00.001-08:00

Franklin the Feral Cat Discovers Cat Toys

2010-12-09T11:47:00.000-08:00

Carolina Tiger Rescue

2010-12-05T09:52:00.000-08:00

This weekend we visited the Carolina Tiger Rescue in North Carolina. It was an incredible experience to learn more about tigers and other beautiful wildcats, and to see them up close. At the same time, it was sobering to hear about the conditions that some of the animals were living in before they were rescued. Laws must be passed and enforced that will make keeping, trading, or harming wildcats illegal throughout the United States (and we wish, worldwide). For more information, visit the website of this incredible non-profit organization.

2010-11-27T12:48:00.001-08:00

Happy Thanksgiving!

2010-11-24T14:37:00.000-08:00

Franklin the Feral Cat gets his first taste of catnip!

2010-11-20T13:08:00.001-08:00

Franklin the Feral Cat is now officially a lap cat!

2010-11-18T04:34:00.001-08:00

Franklin the Feral Cat

2010-11-03T18:25:00.000-07:00

Franklin has slowly been getting used to being indoors. The vet says he has to stay inside for a week, until the stitches from his dental surgery dissolve. After spending a bit of time under the couch, and some more time sitting and staring out the window, he suddenly discovered that being "inside" might not be so bad after all.

Franklin the Feral Cat

2010-11-02T10:06:00.000-07:00

Franklin the Feral Cat (who is rapidly becoming less feral), recovering from dental surgery (thanks to The Cat Connection) and restricted to the house for a week. He misses his yard (or maybe he wishes he could get out to vote!)

The Box is Always the Best!

2010-10-28T09:46:00.001-07:00

Happy National Feral Cat Day!

2010-10-16T08:56:00.000-07:00

Franklin the Feral Cat Slowly Gets Used to Being Inside

2010-10-11T06:14:00.001-07:00

It's been one step at a time -- first a few seconds inside, then a minute, then a half hour.

This is really disturbing

2010-10-05T07:50:00.000-07:00

According to the Missouri Tea Party movement, "the Humane Society of the United States has a "radical agenda" and is "misleading the public with its intentions on Prop B. The society seeks only to raise the cost of breeding dogs, making it ever-more difficult for middle-class America...n families to be dog-owners." Read more here.

Do you have photos to send to Our Place to Paws?

2010-10-02T05:01:00.000-07:00

Do you have pet or wildlife photos to send to Our Place to Paws? We're running another "Reader Photo Contest." The winner gets a free Our Place to Paws T-shirt, and the winning photo will be posted on the site, along with the Honorable Mentions. Send your entries in to OurPlacetoPaws@aol.com by October 15.

Franklin the Feral Cat beginning to trust enough to get out of the rain

2010-09-27T09:03:00.001-07:00

Tribbs -- Snug as a Bug in a Rug

2010-09-17T12:38:00.001-07:00

Who Would Have Thought....

2010-09-12T15:00:00.001-07:00

....a few months ago we could not get anywhere near Franklin, the feral cat.

Quandary!

2010-09-07T15:29:00.000-07:00

For more than a year now, we have been caring for two or three feral cats from the neighborhood. Now one of the cats, Franklin, has begun to really trust us. We had a breakthrough today; Franklin let both my husband and me pet him, without any food nearby. He let us scratch his ears and pet his back. This would have been unheard of just a few months ago.

Before we had Franklin neutered and vaccinated with the help of The Cat Connection, he was a pretty ferocious stray cat. He once launched himself nearly five feet up at our window and yowled at one of our indoor cats, who was sitting in the windowsill. We saw him wandering the neighborhood, looking ragged and lean, but we couldn't get anywhere near him. Once we saw him limping badly with a swollen elbow joint on one leg, but no effort to catch him succeeded. We thought that was it, and were astonished a few weeks later to see him again, walking on all fours.

This was a tough cat, and he had the scars from street battles to prove it. We were worried that his time would run out, between the danger from cars, human beings, and coyotes, and the diseases he could catch. When some kittens were born into the neighborhood we couldn't wait anymore to take action. We were determined to get all of the strays neutered, and the youngest ones adopted to good homes if they could be tamed. We helped save quite a few little lives in the process.

Once we humanely trapped Franklin and had him vaccinated and neutered, everything changed. He was too wild to be tamed and adopted into a home, but he calmed down, began spending time in our yard (we agreed to feed him and the other feral cats in exchange for participation in the program) and slowly began to gain weight, relax, and trust us.

Today Franklin avoids any confrontation with our cats, even if I bring them outside on a leash and halter. He never attacks. He gives way if necessary. He snoozes on our deck, and keeps me company in the mornings when I write outside. Petting him never seemed to be an option, but now we can even do that.

Here's the quandary: we've learned that Franklin is FIV positive, probably from his years of battles on the streets. Cats can live a long, normal life with FIV, it is not a threat to humans, and it is not easy for cats to catch it from each other, but they can pass it on if there is a fight and a serious bite. Our indoor cats are not FIV positive, and knowing this, we don't think we can risk trying to bring Franklin indoors, especially because one of our indoor cats is a territorial male who would never stand a chance against Franklin.

Franklin also is best buddies with a little white feral female who follows him everywhere. She is so sweet and fun, but she won't let us anywhere near her. So if we brought Franklin in, or found him a home, we know she would be lonely.

What to do, what to do! What if we move away some day? I could never leave Franklin behind! But the little white cat can't be tamed. There are no easy answers, but for now I know this: Franklin is healthy, happy, and well-fed, and a lot better off than he was before. We'll figure something out.

The Future of Our Place to Paws

2010-09-06T05:22:00.000-07:00

I've been spending some time contemplating the future of "Our Place to Paws." As regular readers know, this happens now and then. Our little website was launched about four years ago, and in that time we have posted a lot of information about pets and wildlife, have created a Facebook Group that now has more than 330 members, have added many new "animal columnists" and have enjoyed photo submissions from friends and fans.

The truth is, though, we still don't have a major amount of visitors or blog readers on a monthly basis, because Our Place to Paws is a part-time labor of love, not a full-time business with staff. It does cost money to keep the site running, so every few months the question comes back -- should we keep going? Is there enough interest?

I have always believed that if even just one person is inspired to love an animal, volunteer at a shelter, or join a cause in the name of animal welfare because of our site, then all of the work and investment has been worth it. Seeing the occasional posts and comments on Facebook shows me that there are people out there who enjoy the site. And we have a few die-hard fans who love it and participate on a regular basis.

Every time, so far, I've considered taking the site down, I've decided against it. I'm making the same decision this time -- keeping Our Place to Paws going for those of you out there who enjoy it. But please tell your friends about the site, leave comments on the blog, join the Facebook Group...and if you know of advertisers who might be interested in supporting us, send them our way!

Onward!

Paws contest winners

2010-08-31T09:32:00.001-07:00

Are you one of our recent OurPlacetoPaws.com photo contest winners? Write in for your prize!

The Little White Feral Who Lives in Our Yard (Vaccinated, fixed, and fed!)

2010-08-21T14:22:00.000-07:00

Our new content is now online!

2010-08-16T19:50:00.000-07:00

September has come a little early to Our Place to Paws. We've updated our website with our new content. Who won the readers' photo contest? (Hint, we have TWO winners this month, and one is above!). Who is our latest new animal columnist? What is happening with the gray wolves of the northern Rockies?

Check out Our Place to Paws and find out!!

Merrick Pet Care Recalls Texas Hold'ems 10 oz Bag (Item # 60016 Lot 10127 Best by May 6 2012) because of Possible Salmonella Health Risk

2010-08-07T06:29:00.000-07:00

Customer Inquiries:
800-664-7387

Merrick Pet Care, Inc. of Amarillo, Texas is extending its July 2,2010 recall of 10 oz "Beef Filet Squares for Dogs (Texas Hold'Ems)" pet treat (ITEM # 60016 LOT # 10084TL7 BEST BY MARCH 24, 2012) to also include 83 cases of "Texas Hold'ems" (ITEM # 60016 LOT # 10127 BEST BY MAY 6, 2012) because they have the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella. Salmonella can affect animals and there is risk to humans from handling contaminated pet products. People handling the treats can become infected with Salmonella, especially if they have not thoroughly washed their hands after having contact with the chews or any surfaces exposed to these products. Consumers should dispose of these products in a safe manner by securing them in a covered trash receptacle.

Healthy people infected with Salmonella should monitor themselves for some or all of the following symptoms: nausea, vomiting, diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, abdominal cramping and fever. Rarely, Salmonella can result in more serious ailments, including arterial infections, endocarditis, arthritis, muscle pain, eye irritation, and urinary tract symptoms. Consumers exhibiting these signs after having contact with this product should contact their healthcare providers immediately.

Pets with Salmonella infections may be lethargic and have diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, fever, and vomiting. Some pets will have only decreased appetite, fever and abdominal pain. Infected but otherwise healthy pets can be carriers and infect other animals or humans. If your pet has consumed the recalled product and has these symptoms, please contact your veterinarian immediately.

The Beef Filet Squares (Texas Hold 'Ems) were shipped to distributors and retailers throughout the US. These individuals have been notified and have activated their recall procedures.

The treats are sold in 1Ooz plastic bags marked with "Lot # 10127 Best By May 6, 2012" on the top of the bag and on a sticker applied to the bottom.

No illnesses have been reported to date for either lot of product. A sample tested positive for Salmonella.
Consumers who have purchased 10 ounce packages of"Texas Hold'ems" are urged to return the unused portion to the place of purchase for a full refund. Consumers with questions may contact the company at 1-800-664-7387 M-F 8:00 - 5:00 CDT.

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2010-08-05T14:55:00.001-07:00

2010-07-29T07:23:00.001-07:00

Franklin the relaxed feral cat

2010-07-21T10:34:00.000-07:00

Feline's Pride Expands Nationwide Recall of its Natural Chicken Formula Cat Food Due to Salmonella Contamination

2010-07-19T14:58:00.000-07:00

Feline’s Pride is expanding its July 1, 2010 voluntary recall of Feline’s Pride Raw food with ground bone for cats and kittens, Natural Chicken Formula, Net Wt. 2.5 lbs. (1.13 kg., 40 oz.) produced on 6/10/10 to include the product produced on 6/21/10, because it may be contaminated with Salmonella. People handling raw pet food can become infected with Salmonella, especially if they have not thoroughly washed their hands after having contact with the raw pet food or any surfaces exposed to the product.

-----------------------
For a COMPLETE list of recalls, go to http://www.accessdata.fda.gov/scripts/newpetfoodrecalls/. The AVMA site also lists recalls: http://www.avma.org/petfoodsafety/recalls/default.asp

For more information about the FDA's role in pet food regulation, go to http://www.fda.gov/cvm/petfoods.htm.

To report an adverse event associated with pet food, submit a report to the FDA at www.safetyreporting.hhs.gov.

To report an adverse event associated with other animal feeds, please contact your state FDA's Consumer Complaint Coordinator(s). Contact information can be found on the FDA's Web site at http://www.fda.gov/opacom/backgrounders/complain.Html. When reporting, please include as much information as possible, including the specific product name, lot numbers, veterinarian's report and diagnosis, and any other pertinent information. It is preferred, however, that you ask your veterinarian to contact the FDA, because your veterinarian can often provide additional information and details that can aid the investigation.

Enter our upcoming photo contest!

2010-07-19T14:48:00.000-07:00

Have you ever coveted an Our Place to Paws T-shirt? How about a chicken egg painted with your own pet's portrait, done by animal artist Peggy Dey? You can choose one or the other if you enter and win the next Our Place to Paws Pet/Wildlife photo contest. Just send your entries to OurPlacetoPaws(at)aol.com (replacing the (at) with @ of course). We are planning our next website update soon, and we need more photo entries!

If you enjoy writing about animals and would like us to consider an article you've written for our home page, send us your submission.

We look forward to hearing from you.

2010-07-16T12:40:00.000-07:00

Check out some of the pictures of amazing sea creatures recently discovered near Australia here.

Tribbs

2010-07-08T11:07:00.000-07:00

United Pet Group Voluntarily Expands Recall of Nutritional Supplements For Dogs to Include Additional Tablet and Powdered-Form Products for Dogs and Cats Because of Possible Salmonella Health Risk

2010-07-06T12:17:00.000-07:00

Consumers Contact:
(877) 399-5226

Media Contact:
Carey Phelps (770) 360-5292

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – July 2, 2010 – United Pet Group, Cincinnati, Ohio is voluntarily expanding its recent recall of its Pro-Pet Adult Daily Vitamin Supplement tablets for Dogs to include additional pet nutritional supplement products for dogs and cats due to possible Salmonella contamination. The list of recalled products is provided at this link. The Food and Drug Administration is aware of this recall.

The recalled products are sold nationally at various retailers. The products include various United Pet Group Pro-Pet and Excel branded products for dogs and cats, and certain other private label brands of the same products. All of the affected products are in tablet and powdered form. These products are being removed from retail stores and consumers should immediately stop feeding these supplements to their pets. The affected products are those with expiration dates that include and are between "01/2013" and "06/2013." Products with expiration dates earlier than 01/2013 or later than 06/2013 are not included in this recall. The expiration date can be found imprinted vertically on the right side of the product label.

Laboratory testing has revealed that some lots of some of these products may be contaminated with Salmonella. The company is recalling the additional products out of an abundance of caution.

Pets with Salmonella infections may be lethargic and have diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, fever, and vomiting. Some pets will have only decreased appetite, fever and abdominal pain. Infected but otherwise healthy pets can be carriers and infect other animals or humans. If your pet has consumed the recalled product and has these symptoms, please contact your veterinarian.

People who handle these products can become infected with Salmonella, especially if they have not thoroughly washed their hands after having contact with them or any surfaces exposed to these products. Healthy people infected with Salmonella should monitor themselves for some or all of the following symptoms: nausea, vomiting, diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, abdominal cramping and fever. Rarely, Salmonella can result in more serious ailments, including arterial infections, endocarditis, arthritis, muscle pain, eye irritation, and urinary tract symptoms. Consumers exhibiting these signs after having contact with the product should contact their healthcare providers.

Consumers who have purchased the affected products are urged to contact United Pet Group or the place of purchase for further direction. Consumers may contact United Pet Group at 1-877-399-5226, Monday through Friday, from 8:30 am to 5:00 pm EST.

2010-07-05T15:04:00.001-07:00

2010-06-30T10:09:00.001-07:00

Rare Kitten Taken in By Atlanta Shelter

2010-06-27T07:00:00.000-07:00

Have you ever heard of a "Torbie?" It's a tortoishell (black and orange) cat mixed with a striped tabby. Torbie's are almost always female, but an Atlanta shelter got a surprise recently when the veterinarian shaved a Torbie kitten to alter, or fix it. The kitten turned out to be a male!

To read more (including why Torbies are almost always female) and to see a pic of this adorable kitten, visit this link.

It's a Cat's Life!

2010-06-24T09:27:00.001-07:00

Tribbs loves his new cat bed

2010-06-21T12:14:00.000-07:00

Animal Rescuer Rescues Same Dog Twice

2010-06-17T06:24:00.000-07:00

Scruffy the canine escape artist is giving Welsh animal welfare officers a run for their money.

The 12-year-old trouble-making terrier has been rescued twice this year by the same inspector from the Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RSPCA), in two different parts of of the U.K., BBC News reports. Read more at Paw Nation.

Photo Credit: Courtesy of Sue Overment and Paw Nation

2010-06-10T18:56:00.001-07:00

Our Summer Updates are now online!

2010-06-06T16:28:00.000-07:00

We've updated www.OurPlacetoPaws.com with some new summer content -- a new Kids' Corner Project, new feature article on the home page, new animal column from Barkley the raccoon, and more!

Who won the photo contest? The winning pic is a yawner!

Franklin the feral cat is coming closer to the house

2010-06-04T05:29:00.001-07:00

Nothing like some stressed out feral cats...

2010-06-02T16:33:00.001-07:00

Is there anything more rewarding than seeing a feral cat who was once thin, ragged and stressed resting like this?

2010-05-28T14:04:00.000-07:00

Good news!

2010-05-22T06:54:00.000-07:00

Happily, I spoke too soon yesterday when I blogged about the possible loss of our little white feral cat. Today, to my surprise, she appeared again in the yard, hidden among the trees and undergrowth near the feeding station.

I have no idea where she was for two days, but she's back! It's possible that someone else in the neighborhood is leaving out food. As a matter of fact it's probable, because there is another white female, larger but otherwise almost identical down to the gray patches between her ears, who only comes to our feeding station a few times a week. She clearly has a food source somewhere else. Maybe our little girl found it.

All that matters is that she's back, and she's well. Whew!

"Grief is the price we pay for love"

2010-05-21T16:01:00.000-07:00

For months now, a little white female cat has been a member of the small feral colony that we care for in our neighborhood. She took up residence in the insulated house we left outside in the winter, and soon called our backyard home. We have gotten used to seeing her every day, showing up in the morning for breakfast without fail, playing with leaves and bees in the yard, and waiting for her favorite companion, Franklin, the gray and white "Outdoor King." Although Franklin was quite a bruiser when we first met him, he mellowed a lot after he was neutered, and soon she followed him everywhere and gave him playful swats with her paw while he was eating.

We felt like she was our own, and were frustrated that we could never get too close to her. Lately, though, she had gotten to the point where she would relax on the roof of her little backyard house even if we were sitting out on the back deck. We watched her play with the catnip toys we left outside for her.

For two days now, we haven't seen her at all. This is extremely unusual. Franklin has been by for his daily meals, but his little friend has not been by his side. We haven't seen her in the house, and she hasn't shown up for her food. It's only been two days, but we're very worried.

I hope the explanation is a good one; maybe she has just found food somewhere else, or maybe someone even managed to bring her inside. I just hope she's alright. I walked all around the neighborhood looking for her today, but found nothing. Of course I can't just walk into other people's yards, so I couldn't cover every inch of the area.

It's hard when one of them disappears without notice. You often never find out what happened to them. What you do know is that you've lost a little piece of your heart.

2010-05-18T16:25:00.001-07:00

Important Info for Pet Guardians

2010-05-17T14:04:00.000-07:00

This email has been going around the Internet for a while. Included in it is a link to more complete information from Snopes.com.

Please share this with all the pet guardians you know and ask them to do the same - the information you take a few minutes to share might prevent the senseless loss of other pets .

"

Please tell every dog or cat guardian you know.. Even if you don't have a pet, please pass this to those who do.
Over the weekend, the doting guardian of two young lab mixes purchased Cocoa Mulch fromTarget to use in their garden . The dogs loved the way it smelled and it was advertised to keep cats away from their garden. Their dog (Calypso) decided the mulch smelled good enough to eat and devoured a large helping. She vomited a few times which was typical when she eats something new but wasn't acting lethargic in any way. The next day, Mom woke up and took Calypso out for her morning walk . Half way through the walk, she had a seizure and died instantly.

Although the mulch had NO warnings printed on the label, upon further investigation on the company's web site, this product is HIGHLY toxic to dogs and cats

Cocoa Mulch is manufactured by Hershey's, and they claim that "It is true that studies have shown that 50% of the dogs that eat Cocoa Mulch can suffer physical harm to a variety of degrees (depending on each individual dog). However, 98% of all dogs won't eat it."
*Snopes site gives the following information:http://www.snopes.com/critters/crusader/cocoamulch.asp *

Cocoa Mulch, which is sold by Home Depot, Foreman's Garden Supply and other Garden supply stores contains a lethal ingredient called 'Theobromine'. It is lethal to dogs and cats. It smells like chocolate and it really attracts dogs. They will ingest this stuff and die. Several deaths already occurred in the last 2-3 weeks.

Theobromine is in all chocolate, especially dark or baker's chocolate which is toxic to dogs. Cocoa bean shells contain potentially toxic quantities of Theobromine, a xanthine compound similar in effects to caffeine and theophylline. A dog that ingested a lethal quantity of garden mulch made from cacao bean shells developed severe convulsions and died 17 hours later. Analysis of the stomach contents and the ingested cacao bean shells revealed the presence of lethal amounts of theobromine.

** PLEASE PASS THIS ON **

Animals that really could talk

2010-05-16T15:44:00.001-07:00

There's no need to page Doctor Doolittle for this case. Here are the amazing, true stories of four animals that could speak for themselves.

Read the story from CNN here.

We need your help to update Our Place to Paws!

2010-05-13T09:20:00.000-07:00

Hello friends! It's time to update our website at www.OurPlacetoPaws.com, but we don't have enough photo and essay entries. Do you have a photo of a pet or of wildlife that you'd like to submit? Send it to OurPlacetoPaws (at) aol.com, substituting the (at) for the @ sign of course. You could win an Our Place to Paws T-shirt!

What about a little poem or essay about cats, dogs, or Cats vs. Dogs? Send it in, and we'll consider it for our summer essay contest! Again, a T-shirt could be yours.

We look forward to receiving your entries.

A little dose of cute

2010-05-11T09:28:00.001-07:00

Getting up close....

2010-05-03T10:26:00.000-07:00

Franklin, also known as "The Outdoor King," let me get pretty close to him today. He was snoozing in a part of our yard that is covered with underbrush and trees. When I realized he was letting me get close, I returned to the house to retrieve my camera. I've been wanting to get a good picture of Franklin for a while, because I've been worried about the discharge from his eyes. With feral cats, of course, you can't pick them up and give them medication. It's also traumatic for them to be trapped and taken to a veterinarian. Unless they very obviously need medical care, you generally are forced to let them heal on their own from whatever injuries or problems they might have. Thankfully, they are often more resilient than household cats.

With the help of these pictures, I can find out from The Cat Connection whether or not Franklin's eye discharge is a sign of infection. If it is, we need to do something. Debbie, who helped me capture and vaccinate/neuter Franklin about a year ago, said we might be able to slip some antibiotics into his food.

Wish us luck! Here are the pics I finally was able to get of our boy.

Albino Peacock -- beautiful!

2010-04-30T10:12:00.000-07:00

Going Around the Web: A Pet's 10 Commandments

2010-04-26T14:30:00.000-07:00

> 1. My life is likely to last 10-15 years. Any separation from you is likely to be painful.

> 2. Give me time to understand what you want of me

> 3. Place your trust in me. It is crucial for my well-being.

> 4. Don't be angry with me for long and don't lock me up as punishment. You have your work, your friends, your entertainment, but I have only you.

> 5. Talk to me. Even if I don't understand your words, I do understand your voice when speaking to me.

> 6. Be aware that however you treat me, I will never forget it.

> 7. Before you hit me, before you strike me, remember that I could hurt you, and yet, I choose not to bite you.

> 8. Before you scold me for being lazy or uncooperative, ask yourself if something might be bothering me. Perhaps I'm not getting the right food, I have been in the sun too long, or my heart might be getting old or weak.

> 9. Please take care of me when I grow old. You too, will grow old.

> 10 On the ultimate difficult journey, go with me please. Never say you can't bear to watch. Don't make me face this alone. Everything is easier for me if you are there, because I love you so.

Take a moment today to thank God or the universe for your pets. Enjoy and take good care of them. Life would be a much duller, less joyful experience without animals. Now please pass this on to other pet owners. We do not have to wait for Heaven to be surrounded by hope, love, and joyfulness. It is here on earth and has four legs!

Send in your photos and Cats vs. Dogs Essays for our June/Summer Update!

2010-04-23T05:21:00.000-07:00

Our Place to Paws will be updating our Web site at the beginning of June. If you'd like to enter a pet/wildlife photo in our reader's photo contest, send it to OurPlacetoPaws(at)aol.com (substituting the (at) for an @ of course). You can also send a "Cats vs. Dogs" essay to the same address (any writing on cats, dogs or cats vs. dogs). Winners recieve a T-shirt or specially painted egg by animal artist Peggy Sigler Dey (www.deybydeystudio.com).

Over 2 and a half million "hits"

2010-04-22T14:00:00.000-07:00

I was amused today, after watching a video of an incredibly cute kitten falling asleep on YouTube, by one of the comments underneath the video. Someone wrote something to this effect: "What I think is amazing is that more than 2 million people have watched a video of a kitten falling asleep."

It's so true; if you search "cute kittens" or "cute puppies" on YouTube, you can come up with videos that have been watched by millions of people from all over the world. And why not? What lifts your day more than a few seconds watching a cute puppy or kitten? What represents innocence, and joy, and love more than a baby? Such videos are one minor thing that can unite people from around the globe.

I, for one, will keep watching these videos, especially in moments when I feel down. My own kittens are all grown up now, and as precious and cute as I think they are as adults, I can always get my "kitten" fix with just a few clicks. In fact, I never seem to get tired of watching this one.

Here's the video: