Generous Woman Wills $1.2 Million To Tennessee’s Cats and Dogs

by Lori Ennis

Published: January 3rd, 2017

generous woman wills 1 2 million to tennessees cats and dogs

A Tennessee woman loved her dogs and cats so much, she left her entire $1.2 million estate to the animals of her hometown county, and funds have already started to expand her local animal shelter.

Glenda Taylor DeLawder died in November of 2015. Always an animal lover, she left her entire estate to the animals in the Tennessee county in which she lived. Mayor Leon Humphrey of Carter County recently announced that she’d left $1.2 million (yes, million) with the hope that all the money would specifically help care for the county’s cats and dogs.

The administrators of Ms. DeLawder’s estate have already taken her last wishes to heart, allotting $540,000 to her local animal shelter to help expand the animal areas for their comfort, as well as to purchase a van for shelter employees to more easily take pets to clinics and adoption functions.

Mayor Humphrey said that the county and county shelter are honored to receive such a gift, as her endowment is one of the largest a private citizen had ever given to citizens — feline and canine alike. The mayor shared that Ms. DeLawder loved her cats and dogs very much and wanted to show her love and care of them as her everlasting gift. He says he thinks that she’d be very happy that her gift will allow a future for cats and dogs at the shelter as long as the shelter exists. The expansions to the shelter are slated to begin January 9, 2017, and the county expects the new van in March.

In the meantime, Ms. DeLawder’s estate administrators are interviewing other organizations for the distribution of the remaining estate funds to give as they see fit in a way that Ms. DeLawder would want.As the news of the donations has come out, people have been signing Ms. DeLawder’s online obituary pages, thanking her for her generosity and thoughtfulness.

One thing is for sure–the shelter cats and dogs of Carter County will appreciate her continued dedication to them, even after she’s no longer with us.

Lori Ennis

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Dog Dives For Golf Balls To Raise Funds For Homeless Animals

A Bernese Mountain Dog was so sad when he watched humane society commercials on television, he and his dad decided to raise money to donate to his furry friends! Albertville, Minnesota golfer Al Cooper says he may be lousy at golf, but his dog, six-year-old Bernese Mountain Dog Davos, is a fabulous golf ball retriever, collecting the balls golfers hit out of boundary. They ride along together, with Davos hunting for them and bringing them back to his dad’s cart, where he dutifully drops them in a bucket. Related: Generous Woman Wills $1.2 Million To Tennessee’s Cats and Dogs Cooper sells the found balls and Davos has already made $100 for the 400 balls he’s retrieved and sold so far. Cooper says that he’s been doing this for years, initially giving the balls they found back to golfers for about $.25 a ball. Cooper used the earnings to pay for vet bills and dog treats for his boy. But Davos isn’t your ordinary golf-playing pooch. No, he has a generous and sensitive heart, and Cooper said that he just whined his eyes out when he watched one of those ASPCA commercials that make you want to empty your entire bank account into theirs. Davos ‘wanted’ his hard work to help his furry friends out, and so Cooper decided that they’d put what they made from the sale of recovered balls toward their local shelter. Related: ASPCA Wants You to on Dog Fighting Davos was able to present a crisp $100 (adorably wrapped around his paw) to the Golden Valley Animal Humane Society, and Cooper says that they plan to continue making donations to the shelter to help animals in need. If only humans took care of each other so well.

Not-So-Crazy Cat Lady Leaves $300,000 to Her Kitties in Her Will

What would happen to your pets when you pass on? A couple of kitties in the Bronx, New York, won’t have to worry because their mama willed them $300,000! It’s not uncommon for people to leave directions for the care of their pets in wills should something happen and they not be able to care for them anymore. They often will even leave funds sometimes, in an effort to help offset costs. Related: Generous Woman Wills $1.2 Million To Tennessee’s Cats and Dogs But it’s a little bit more unusual for pets to be willed hundreds of thousands of dollars–though that is exactly what happened to a pair of cats in New York. Ellen Frey-Wouters wanted to make sure that her cats Troy and Tiger would never be in a cage and always have the loving care she’d provided them. To ensure that happened, she left $300,000 dollars to them, along with explicit instructions for their care once she was gone. Frey-Wouters was originally from the Netherlands and worked for the United Nations. She and her husband, a Brooklyn College professor who died in 1989, lost their only child as an infant. Tiger and Troy were her babies. Related: Humane Society Of Canada Fights To Keep Tax-Free Status After Shady Expenses Revealed Her lawyer was a bit surprised that she wanted to leave that much money to them, and said it sort of reminded him of when Leona Hemsley left $65,000 to her dog. The actuality is that Hemsley left her Maltese, Trouble, $12 million, so in perspective, $300,000 to ensure proper care doesn’t seem that crazy after all. [Source: New York Post]

Can You Leave Your Estate to Your Dog?

Lawyers recommend that everyone should have a will. And for dog parents, you have some decisions to make about how your pooch will be taken care of in the event of your death. The only thing you can really expect with any certainty in life is the fact that it will someday end. No one likes to think about dying but the fact is that it will happen to all of us, some sooner than others. Planning for your future is incredibly important, especially if you have a family to look after. But what happens to your pets when you leave this world? Keep reading to learn how to ensure that your canine companion is cared for after your departure. What Does the American Bar Association Have to Say? According to the American Bar Association (ABA), pets are classified as property. You consider your dog a member of the family – maybe even your best friend – but legally he is the same as the desk in your office or the car in your garage. Related: The P.E.T.S. Plan – Four Steps To Divorcing With Pets If you want to ensure that your pet is cared for when you are no longer around to care for him, you’ll need to make specific provisions to ensure that this happens. It is unfortunate but true that thousands of pets end up in the shelter system each year because their owners pass away, not knowing that they needed to (or had the option to) make provisions for their beloved pets. Keep reading to learn how to legally provide for your pet in your estate. How to Include Your Dog in Your Estate When it comes to including your dog in your estate, there are two legal documents you can use. The first is your will – this is a document that serves as a guide for how you want your property to be distributed after your death. You have the option to name in your will who you want to care for your pet – you can also gift them money for his care. What you need to realize, however, is that the instructions in a will are not legally enforceable – you cannot legally require someone to care for your pet and any money you give them for that purpose can legally be used in whatever way the beneficiary sees fit. Related: Generous Woman Wills $1.2 Million To Tennessee’s Cats and Dogs Another legal document you might use to secure your pet’s care after your passing is a pet trust. A pet trust allows you to name someone to care for your pet and it allows you to assign a trustee who will distribute any funds reserved for that purpose and to ensure that the person you choose follows your instructions. This document is useful because you can assign a different person as the caregiver and as the trustee so you don’t have to worry about fights over funds. You can also use a pet trust to provide instructions for pet care if you are incapacitated. Can You Leave Your Estate to Your Dog? If you want to leave your entire estate to your dog, you are going to run into some legal challenges. First of all, know that most states dictate that the spouse of the deceased receives the entirety of the estate if you have minor children. If you have no heirs, it may go to your closest living relatives. If you want your entire estate to go to your dog, you can make that happen but know that unconventional wills are more likely to be scrutinized by probate judges. You’ll need to use the legal documents mentioned above to ensure your dog’s care and you’ll need to hire legal counsel to draft the documents needed to leave your estate to your dog.

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How Often Should I Clean My Bird's Cage?

Parrots and small birds are exceptionally vulnerable when their cage is left unkempt and dirty – proper hygiene and a clean space to rest and eat in are a must for the good health of all avians. What is more, a bird cage that is left unclean can become a threat to your health as well, with airborne bacteria and pathogens flying all over the place. All in all, it’s clear that regular cleaning of your bird's cage shouldn’t be seen as just a dull chore but as a necessary task to protect everyone’s health and wellbeing. However, while it’s obvious that you need to do it regularly, just how often should you clean your bird’s cage? Is it on a check-and-see basis or is there a recommended frequency of cleaning? Let’s find out.How Often Should I Clean My Bird's Cage?The frequency at which you should clean the cage depends on several factors, including the size of the cage, the number of birds you have, and the species of bird in question. For example, a smaller cage will get dirty in no time, while a large one that houses a single, bigger bird will remain cleaner for longer. While these are good starting guidelines, things are not that simple.The best approach to take is to clean the cage daily, weekly, and monthly. Of course, the amount of cleaning you do each day will differ from the one you do on a monthly basis – here’s how it should look like:Daily Cleaning:Change the  food and water dishes daily to ensure fresh food and clean water. This is imperative and a major part of caring for your bird. Don’t allow water to remain unchanged and food to go stale.

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Study Finds Link Between Having a Dog and Girls' Physical Activity

A new study finds that having a furry companion at home could help promote healthy physical activity in children, especially young girls. According to research from the Telethon Kids Institute in Australia, getting a new dog or losing a furry companion is linked with a child’s level of physical activity. This new research shows that having a dog could help promote healthy movement behavior in children. The study's lead researcher, Emma Adams, highlights the positive influence of dog ownership on children’s activity levels, pointing to potential benefits that start from early childhood.“We saw a significant jump in daily physical activity in children whose families acquired a dog over the study period, while those whose families experienced the loss of a dog recorded a steep drop-off in activity,” added Adams.The research teams from Telethon Institute and the University of Western Australia followed 600 children aged between two and seven years old, over a three-year period to determine the impact dog ownership (or loss) has on physical activity levels.The results showed that getting a dog or losing a family companion is associated with significant changes in children’s activity levels. Surprisingly, young girls showed the most significant response.“The results were particularly noticeable in girls, with girls who acquired a dog increasing their light intensity activity and games by almost an hour a day (52 minutes).”“On the flipside, there was a marked drop in light intensity activity and games in girls who experienced the loss of a dog, with their activity dropping by 62 minutes a day,” said Adams according to Independant. Children wore accelerometers during waking hours for seven days at a time to measure sedentary time, screen time, and physical activity. Parents were also asked about their childrens’ activity levels. Half of the children participating in the study didn’t own a dog at any point during the study period, 204 children had a dog for the entire three years, 58 got a dog during the study period, and 31 children lost their furry companion during the course of the study.Data showed that girls who got a dog increased their light intensity activities and games by almost an hour a day (52 minutes). At the same time, girls who lost a dog experienced a decrease of 62 minutes a day in the same activities. Researchers observed that unstructured physical activity, such as walking with the dog or playing in the garden saw an increase for both boys and girls who got a dog during the study. “If we excluded dog walking and playing, there were no changes in the unstructured physical activity, so we could see the changes in physical activity were actually from the addition of those dog-related activities,” said Adams. On the other hand, children who lost their dog decreased their unstructured physical activity by 10.2 sessions a week for girls and 7.7 sessions for boys. “Regular physical activity from an early age is essential for children’s physical and mental health development, but few children or adolescents are meeting recommended daily levels. Our findings indicate that having a dog in the family could help promote healthy movement behaviors in children and reduce their short- and long-term risk of chronic disease.”Although this study discovered a positive link between dog ownership and increased physical activity Adams stresses that it’s not a call for everyone to get a dog. “It’s important to note that we’re not telling families to just go out and get a dog - having a dog comes with many responsibilities and won’t be right for everyone.”Instead, this study encourages dog owners to use canine companionship to increase physical activity. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Is Peanut Butter Safe for Dogs?

Ah, peanut butter –who doesn’t love a smear of this sticky butter on their toast? Whether you top it with bananas or jelly or something else altogether, spread on bread, mix in oatmeal, or add to smoothies, you likely enjoy the nutty goodness of peanut butter at least a few times a week. But can you share PB with your dog? While this tasty spread is generally safe for dogs as they have no issue eating peanuts in the form of butter, it’s the other ingredients that may be in the PB you’re eating that could harm them. This is what you should know before giving your pet peanut butter – whether as an ingredient of something else or on its own.Is Peanut Butter Safe for Dogs? To give you a short and straightforward answer, yes, peanut butter is safe for dogs when it’s made only out of peanuts as the single ingredient. However, that’s not always the case with commercially made peanut butter. To tweak its consistency, shelf life, or even modify its flavor, companies can add a variety of different ingredients to their peanut butter products, so it’s crucial to read the label before giving your pet even just a lick of peanut butter – and it wouldn't hurt to do so before eating it yourself, either. The most dangerous ingredient (for dogs) that could be added to peanut butter is  xylitol, or birch sugar, as it is sometimes labeled. This sweetener is highly toxic to dogs as even small amounts of xylitol can cause a rapid release of insulin, leading to hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), seizures, and liver failure in dogs.Another thing that could be problematic about peanut butter for dogs is not a matter of a sneaky ingredient but the fact that it’s a high-fat food. If not given in moderation, peanut butter can largely contribute to obesity in dogs, and in turn, promote health issues such as  pancreatitis at worst and upset tummy at best. It is also important to note that some dogs may be allergic to peanuts, the same as is the case with us humans. If you are giving your pet peanut butter for the first time, monitor them for signs of allergic reactions, such as itching, redness, swelling, or gastrointestinal upset, and consult your veterinarian if concerns arise.Benefits of Peanut Butter for Dogs and How To Incorporate It In Your Dog’s DietIn addition to being yummy, peanut butter is also beneficial for dogs. It might be high in fat, but it is predominantly unsaturated fats, including omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, which support skin and coat health, joint function, and immune system function in dogs. It is also a rich source of plant-based protein and will support your pet's overall health when given in moderation. So how do you ensure you don’t overdo it with PB and that your pet reap only the benefits of this nutty spread? While an excellent reward to utilize when training with positive reinforcement methods, peanut butter should be given sparingly rather than every time your pooch does a good job. Use a small amount – a teaspoon will work well for the job. Alternatively, if your pet loves the taste of peanut butter but you’re trying to maintain their weight, opting for peanut butter-flavored treats is a perfect compromise. My dogs prefer crunchy treats and are big PB fans, so one of their favorites is  American Journey Peanut Butter Recipe Grain-Free Oven Baked Crunchy Biscuit Dog Treats.

Is Melatonin Safe For Dogs?

Melatonin is an important hormone, which is naturally produced in the pineal gland of the brain. It has numerous beneficial aspects, such as it can help regulate mood, sleep cycles, and reproduction. However, its production is directly stimulated by darkness, while it is inhibited by light. What does this mean? It means that both dogs and humans will produce melatonin only when it is dark outside. As soon as the dawn arrives with the light of day, melatonin production ceases. This means that many people will supplement melatonin, or use it throughout the day for various reasons. Which brings up the question - is melatonin safe for dogs? Let’s find out. Is Melatonin Safe For Dogs? Melatonin is generally considered extremely safe for dogs, and it is almost always safe to give it to them - when it is used appropriately and under the guidance of a veterinarian. While melatonin is used in humans for the above-mentioned reasons, for dogs it is usually used for treating various skin conditions, anxiety, or sleep disorders. But even with all the positive aspects, it is necessary to first heed the advice of your veterinarian, before giving melatonin to your pet. This is because the proper dosage is important. The dose of melatonin administered depends on your pet’s size, weight, and overall health condition. Generally, veterinarians recommend starting with a low dose and gradually increasing it if necessary. Dosages typically range from 0.5 to 3 milligrams per dog, but this can vary. Mistake the dosage, and you risk a lot of side effects, like digestive upset, lethargy, and changes in mood or behavior.What is more, melatonin might not be suitable for dogs with certain health conditions or those taking other medications. Because of this, it is always crucial to seek professional advice before administering any supplements or medications to your pet. Ignoring this can cause a lot of harm.

Are Candles Safe for Pets?

Final Thoughts: Candles and PetsWhether you want to include a candle in your holiday décor while keeping your pet safe or simply burn a candle to mask those pesky “pet smells,” there ARE options available to enjoy the gentle glow of a candle without creating unnecessary risks for your companion.Choose a pet-safe candle that is made from plant-based wax, avoiding those scented with potentially toxic essential oils like peppermint and pine oils. Set your candle up on a secure surface out of their reach and supervise your pet the entire time it burns. When you’re done, ensure your candle is stored safely where your pet can’t reach it.These simple precautions may be the difference between a festive holiday scene and a trip to your local emergency vet!Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

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Sleeping With Pets: Here's What Experts Have to Say

Pet parents adore their four-legged companions so much that they choose to sleep with them at night. Research shows that more than half of pet owners sleep with their pets. Most pet owners consider their pets part of the family, so it is no surprise that they will go out of their way to ensure their furry companions’ comfort. However, with an increasing focus on our sleep health, pet parents are starting to wonder about the potential disadvantages of sleeping with pets. In fact, sharing a bed with a pet is the subject of controversy among pet parents.Various studies suggest that there are many benefits to sleeping with pets. And experts tend to agree. According to Audrey Wells, MD, a board-certified sleep medicine physician, a pet can provide an emotional connection and reduce anxiety and stress levels, therefore promoting sleep. “Some people may consider their pets an added layer of security, dependable to alert them to unexpected noises or lights.”Another benefit of sleeping with your pet is that they can keep you nice and warm during the night. People who get chilled easily might enjoy cuddling with a furry companion during frigid winter nights.“Pets are sensitive to routine, and they can help enforce a regular bedtime and better sleep quality for their owner,” explained Dr. Wells. “Similarly, pets can signal wake-up time in the morning and even prompt some time outside for a walk and daylight exposure.”If you enjoy sleeping with your pet and find it beneficial for your sleep, the science agrees with you. According to Amanda Farah, National Training and Behavioral Coordinator at Best Friends Animal Society, studies have found that some people sleep more soundly when their dog is sleeping next to them. “If you and your dog both sleep well together, you’ll enjoy the health benefits that come with a good night’s sleep, such as improved mental clarity, lower blood pressure, reduced stress, and a stronger immune system,” explained Farah.According to Teddy Cralle, Ms, RN, certified clinical sleep educator, some people sleep better when their pet is in the bed, but some don’t. If there’s a chance that you won't get a good night’s rest while sleeping with your pet you shouldn't sleep with them in the first place. For example, if you’re a light sleeper and your dog likes to change positions during the night, sleeping with your pooch may wake you more often, resulting in low-quality sleep. Also, some pups like to claim the entire bed for themselves, leading to a sleepless night and a backache. “Sacrificing your sleep means sacrificing your health, well-being, and quality of life - and that is not a sacrifice to make,” Cralle added.Sharing a bed with a pet may not be the best idea if you’re an asthma or allergy sufferer. Although some dog breeds shed less than others, no dog is truly hypoallergenic because it’s their dander and not hair that triggers an allergic reaction. Zoonotic diseases are another downside of sleeping with pets. Research has confirmed that sharing a bed with a pet can increase the exposure rate to pathogens that might be present. Although no one wants to think about it, pets can bring unwanted guests to your bed. Fleas and ticks are the most active during the warmer months, but the truth is they can infest your pet all year long. If the downsides of sleeping with your pet have made you reconsider your sleeping arrangement don’t fret - you can still have your pooch close by while you sleep. A crate or a cozy dog bed next to your bed will help everyone get a good night’s rest. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

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Meet Maverick, the Winner of the 2023 American Humane Hero Dog Award

A six-year-old European Blue Great Dane was singled out from hundreds of other dogs and crowned the 2023 American Humane Hero Dog. Maverick’s job as a therapy dog is to support military members and their families from across the country.Maverick has an extraordinary ability to provide comfort to those who need it with a simple touch of his paw. “A sign of a good therapy dog is a dog that always wants to touch you,” explained Marverick’s owner, Kelly Brownfield, from Saint Robert, Missouri. “He just has a sense of knowing what people need.”Brownfield, who works as a manager at the Fort Leonard Wood United Service Organization, told Fox News that Maverick was born for a purpose. “Maverick’s superpower is his ability to calm people with a touch of his paw, giving them strength to move forward,” she said.This gentle giant supports service members after unexpected deaths in their units, escorts children to military funerals of their parents, and helps service men and women cope with trauma. Each week, Maveric spends time with students at school, offering support to children who practice their reading skills.Tipping the scales at 150 pounds, Maverick can initially seem intimidating, but “he is literally a gentle giant,” said Brownfield. “His whole aura about him is calming.”“He is the perfect size for everything that we do. He is literally their rock; they can lean on him, and he is there for them,” his owner added. “The one thing about this breed is that they have a heart to match.”Each year, people around the country nominate hundreds of dogs in five categories - law enforcement and first responder dogs; service and guide or hearing dogs; therapy dogs; military dogs; and emerging hero and shelter dogs - for American Humane’s Hero Dog Award.Five semi-finalists, in each of the five categories, were chosen from hundreds of dogs. A competitive public vote has cut the list to only five four-legged finalists - one presenting each category. Maverick, who was competing against service dog Moxie, Coast Guard K-9 Buda, police dog Poppy, and emerging hero Raina, was crowned by the panel of judges as the winner. “We are so excited to name Maverick as the American Humane’s 2023 Hero Dog, a distinction that is well deserved for him and his owner Kelly,” said Dr. Robin Ganzert, President and CEO of American Humane. “The duo has worked tirelessly to bring comfort and solace to our nation’s military heroes through the United Service Organization (USO), all while they both were facing their internal beatles against cancer. It’s these types of incredible stories about sacrifice, perseverance, and compassion that this award aims to spotlight.”Maverick has also offered emotional support to his owner Kelly, who has been battling cancer for the past six years. “I truly believe he knew before anyone else knew,” said Brownfield, adding that Maverick was particularly clingy, touchy, and protective in the months leading up to her diagnosis. “To have him there, especially on hard days has been just an amazing support.”The six-year-old gentle giant also faced a cancer diagnosis last year but is now cancer-free thanks to a successful surgical procedure. Although Maverick spends most of his time in Missouri, he and his owner sometimes travel around the country for work. Together, he and Brownfield have completed hundreds of special mission requests over the years.Having a therapy dog around “can help change lives,” said Brownfield. “He senses the needs of every person.”Maverick and the four other finalists will be honored at the 13th annual American Humane Hero Dog Awards in Palm Beach, Florida. The award show will air on Thanksgiving Day and November 26 on A&E.Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

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