Shelter Spotlight: National Service Dogs

by Mary Simpson

Published: March 14th, 2017

With a lofty vision of becoming Canada’s premiere service dog provider, National Service Dogs believes in the life-changing power of Certified Service Dogs.

You’ve just gotta love an organization whose vision is to empower people to achieve their full potential with the help of pooches. Such is the mantra of Canadian-based National Service Dogs (NSD), who have been breeding, training and placing certified service dogs with autistic kids going back to 1996.

The original catalyst behind the creation of NSD centered on a mom’s search for a service dog that could help her three year old child who had autism. The family was partnered with a sweet natured black lab named “Shade” and the results were so impressive that both the media and the Geneva Centre for Autism picked up on it.

Related: Top 10 Service Dog Breeds

Within three years, NSD’s service dogs were featured on the first episode of the hit TV show “Dogs with Jobs” and it generated so much buzz that their service dog model eventually became the international standard for Certified Service Dogs trained for use alongside autistic children.

So how exactly do these pooches help special needs kids? The dogs – typically larger, gentle breeds such as Labrador and Golden Retrievers – are trained to help safeguard the kids by acting as an “anchor” to counteract the dangers of sudden bolting – a behavior typical of kids with autism. Being tethered to the child, these gentle giants deliver not only a calming presence but a sizeable weight that is trained to stay put and remain unrattled.

Fast forward 20 years and NSD’s award-winning training program has seen the graduation of more than 350 Certified Service Dog Teams and the delivery of support to service dog organizations from around the globe that wanted to start up similar programs.

Not resting on their laurels, NSD has also expanded on their roster of services to include dogs that support:

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

Launched in 2011, the program assists veterans suffering the long-term effects of PTSD and positioned NSD as the first accredited service dog organization in Canada to offer a comprehensive support program to help veterans deal with issues surrounding hyper vigilance, anxiety and transitioning into mainstream society.

Canine Assisted Intervention (CAI)

The program matches service dogs to a variety of professional therapy partners whose goal is to promote health and wellness in the community. The first (CAI) Dog was placed in 2013 making NSD’s Canine Assisted Intervention Program the first in Ontario, and one of only three in Canada.

Companion Dog Services

Dating back to 2002, NSD’s Companion Dog Program places dogs with children who are living with various disabilities and just need a gentle, supportive pet. Beyond basic obedience training, these good boys do not have specific skills or enjoy access to public spaces, but they do deliver “best friends” benefits to kids and families in need.

While NSD‘s programs help them place more than 90% of their service dogs, a few are deemed not the “right fit” for a life of service. These pooches are lovingly listed under the organization’s “Career Changed Dogs” page and are available for an adoption fee of $1,000 CDN to the right home. They are typically one to two years of age, have basic training (obedience and socialization), are micro-chipped, up-to-date on vaccines and well bred. What more can you ask for!

Mary Simpson

Sharing space with three seriously judgy Schnoodles and a feline who prefers to be left alone. #LivingMyBestLife

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Old Dog Haven Gives Senior Pets Homes and Dignity

Expensive veterinary bills ward many away from considering the adoption of a senior dog. A non-profit organization out of Arlington, Washington ensures the last days for senior pets are comfortable and happy in their furever homes. Senior dogs are special. They just are. Yes, there’s nothing like the vim and adorable vigor of a puppy, but there is so much to be said for the quiet dignity and knowledgeable eyes a senior has. The looks they give are full of gratitude for life well-lived. Related: Senior Canines Bring Love And Companionship To Senior Citizens But shelters are full of senior pets–many strays who just couldn’t make it on the streets any more; many given up or abandoned because the cost of vet care for their aging and often-requiring-medical-care dogs is just too much for owners to afford. Old Dog Haven, a non-profit group in the Seattle, WA area, saw the difficulty in adoption of shelter seniors as a crisis, and for more than ten years, has been rescuing senior dogs from shelters and covering any and all urgent medical needs. They then adopt the dogs out, and if the dog is too medically fragile or old to get adopted out, Old Dog Haven has a network of over 200 permanent foster care families who take the senior pups in and make sure their last days, however long they may be, are safe, comfortable and mostly, happy. These ‘final refuge’ foster homes can provide care to more than 300 dogs at a time. These foster families never have to worry about vet bills, and in some cases, some of the seniors live several more years and are the best additions to their family. Often content to just be ‘with their people,’ when the worry of vet expense is removed, it’s easier to make the choice about ‘assisted living’ for dogs. Founded by Judith and Lee Piper, Old Dog Haven calls a suburbian 5-acre pasture in Arlington, Washington home. Judith and Lee have spent the last decade raising funds through donations to ensure that any senior dog adopted from their organization will have veterinary care paid for as long as the dog needs. This commitment to save elderly dogs from euthanasia has resulted in Old Dog Haven being the largest senior-dog rescue group of its kind in America, though their service areas are shelters in western Washington.Their plight has inspired a new book, “My Old Dog: Rescued Pets with Remarkable Second Acts” by Today Show writer Laura T. Coffee and illustrated by Lori Fusaro.

Shelter Spotlight: Saved by the Heart Companion Animal Services

South Carolina shelter animals have a team of passionate pet peeps in their corner. Saved by the Heart Rescue is on a mission to help special needs animals and give them the care they deserve. In Greer, South Carolina, the husband and wife team of Jessica and Nathan Monroe strive to help pet owners in their area figure out how to keep pets in their homes. They serve as connectors, sharing available education and assistance programs with pet owners who, for various reasons, feel they cannot keep their pet in their home. And if that fails, Saved by the Heart Companion Animal Services, the rescue the pair founded in 2011, can sometimes take in or find fosters for some of the animals. Their mission is to house rescue animals with special needs, like senior pets, abused animals or those pets who need medical care and attention. Between their home and the homes of their volunteer fosters, they currently serve more than 35 dogs and cats. In the past, they’ve even rescued rabbits, mice, birds and goats. Related: Shelter Spotlight: Scout’s Honor Some are able to be adopted out into forever homes, like sweet Sassy. Sassy is a golden retriever who was found as a stray in downtown Greer. Picked up by Saved by the Heart, Sassy has come out of her lonely shell to be an outgoing, social girl—one of the stars of their events. She is both housetrained and crate trained and is just waiting on her forever home. To raise money and awareness, the organization hosts the Saved by the Heart Soiree, and they participate in local events that garner a shared portion of the proceeds. Related: Shelter Spotlight: Hull’s Haven Border Collie Rescue Saved by the Heart needs donations, both financial and goods. Their website lists specific requests—bleach, cat litter, old towels, gift cards to purchase supplies and so on—but they also have an Amazon wish list that enables donations to be shipped directly to their rescue. If you’re local to the Greer or Greenville areas, Saved by the Heart requires volunteers to run their events. Most volunteer opportunities are manning a table at promotional and adoption events with responsibilities like greeting the public, assisting with adoptions and selling fundraising items. If you aren’t local to that part of South Carolina, you can still support Saved by the Heart’s mission by purchasing a subscription to BarkBox or items from the Bark Shop by using their promotional code. With each subscription to BarkBox purchased with their code, Saved by the Heart earns a $15 donation. To learn more about Saved by the Heart Companion Animal Services’ mission, volunteer opportunities or adoptable animals, visit them online. The website also hosts a calendar of events if you’re nearby and can attend to show your support. Or, visit them on social media: Check out their Facebook page for the most up-to-date information and Instagram for foster animal updates.

American Humane Turns Shelter Dogs to Service Dogs For Veterans

American Humane launches a new program that will take shelter dogs and train them to be service dogs for military veterans suffering from brain injuries and/or post traumatic stress. Military service members and veterans can suffer from life-changing Post Traumatic Stress ( PTS) and Traumatic Brain Injuries ( TBI) due to the nature of their service, and the American Humane wants to serve those American heroes and save the lives of shelter dogs at the same time. Related: HABRI Grants $42,000 To Study Effects Of Service Dogs On War Veterans With PTSD President and CEO of American Humane, Dr. Robin Ganzert, says that every day, 20 American veterans commit suicide on average, and it is estimated that nearly 700,000 dogs a year are euthanized in United States shelters. Working through the Lois Pope Life Center for Military Affairs, American Humane will attempt to make a dent in both of those numbers, by launching this program. Research shows that service dogs trained to work with PTS and TBI patients make life-long, and often lifesaving, impact on the lives of those veterans who suffer with those issues. The problem is that wait lists are long because the training process takes time and can cost up to $20,000 per dog to specially train. American Humane plans to offer PTS and TBI service dogs to veterans in need fully at their own expense; veterans who receive the dogs will not pay anything. Related: Paws For Veterans Trains Rescue Dogs To Help Heroes With PTSD Currently, the Department of Defense does not pay for the training and/or delivery of specialized service dogs to its veterans, with the exception of a sometimes-stipend of $500, and that is not always guaranteed. While many are lobbying to make that different, corporate sponsors of American Humane’s veterans’ assistance program like Hallmark Channel, Kriser’s Natural Pet and Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health, as well as individual donors’ generous donations are currently making the program possible.

Shelter Spotlight: Foster Dogs NYC Fospice Program

Homeless dogs deserve to spend their last days surrounded by people who care. That’s the idea behind Foster Dogs NYC’s Fospice Program. It is a fact of life that our dogs have limited time on this earth. As much as it pains us, we eventually have to say goodbye and let our pets go. But for every dog who leaves this world surrounded by the people who love him, countless others die in shelters around the world – alone. The fospice program was started by the Foster Dogs NYC organization to give old or sick homeless dogs a comfortable way before passing to the Rainbow Bridge, surrounded by people who care. About the Foster Dogs NYC Organization The Foster Dogs NYC organization was founded in 2009 by Sarah Oren Brasky. Though there are plenty of shelters and rescue organizations in New York, Brasky recognized a need for an organization that was dedicated solely to foster care for dogs. Foster Dogs NYC works closely with local rescue organizations and shelters to find foster homes for dogs and to educate the community about fostering. This organization sponsors a number of unique programs including workshops that provide education about dog care and training as well as exercise programs and foster placement programs. Foster Dogs NYC also holds fundraising events throughout the year to support their own programs as well as other local rescue and shelter organizations. Related: Don Cherry’s Pet Rescue Foundation What is the Fospice Program? One of the most unique programs that Foster Dogs NYC offers is their fospice program. The name for this program is a combination of the words “foster” and “hospice” which should give you an idea what it entails. Essentially, the fospice program is catered to homeless dogs who are sick or elderly – it gives them a comfortable and loving home for the last days or weeks of their lives so they don’t die in the shelter. Foster Dogs NYC has partnered with local businesses to create a fospice sponsorship package that includes the following: Help in lining up a “forever foster” home for the dogA donation made to the rescue organization made in the dog’s honorA dog bed from local pet product supplier Harry BarkerA custom portrait made by Amanda Moeckel of My Animal ArtA professional photoshoot in the homeA handmade leash from Found My Animal Each dog that enters the fospice program has unique needs so Foster Dogs NYC takes great care in finding them the perfect forever foster home. Once they are placed, fospice dogs will receive the medical care they need to live out the rest of their days in relative comfort in an environment that is much more pleasant than the shelter. All dogs deserve to leave this world in the care of someone who loves them, not afraid and alone in a shelter setting.

Pets and Peeps Welcome at 2017 Spring Canadian Pet Expo

Canadian Pet Expo – think of it as Disney World for your pet. And if you’ve been a really, really good boy (or girl), you can come along too! Canada’s largest pet extravaganza – Canadian Pet Expo (CPE) – is back and this Spring it’s taking place at Toronto’s International Centre April 14-16, 2017; a 3-day affair that promises to deliver something for every pooch, puss and pet parent. The highly anticipated event features hundreds of vendors, thousands of products and lots of fun competitions that range from the AquaDogs dock diving league to Rocket Relay flyball and agility pros Woofjocks Canine All-Stars. If spectator sports don’t excite your little guy or gal they can still join in the fun by entering (in advance) to be part of the CPE’s Best Dressed Show sponsored by Great Jacks, WHIMZEES and hosted by Q107’s Jennifer Valentyne. Still not enough to get them panting in anticipation and searching for their party duds? How about the $1,500 in prizes and CPE money that is dished out to the winners! Related: Dock Diving Dogs are Making a Splash this Summer That’s not all! Noodles and HERO, past champions of the CPE’s Top Dog Trick event will be on hand both Friday and Saturday to support this year’s contestants at the preliminaries – no word if they’re available for autographs – and again on Sunday for the grand champion round. But CPE hasn’t gone entirely to the dogs. Canada’s largest cat show will also be taking place and if you prefer to share your life with a small animal, bird, reptile or fish, there’s a rabbit and guinea pig showcase and hands-on exotics that will surely please your little two-legged family members. Related: Shelter Spotlight – National Service Dogs And CPE’s message continues to convey what many of us already feel: that every pet is a companion for life and you should share each day with them as you would with every family member. Because of this mantra, they are actively involved in giving back to the animal community and for 2017 will be working with National Service Dogs to help partner their trained dogs with the people at BOOST Child and Youth Advocacy Centre. Kudos to those who care!! So for now you just need to pull out your calendar like a good pet parent and help your little sidekick mark how many more sleeps till he gets to go to Canadian Pet Expo!

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How To Tell if a Dog Is Cold

You might think your dog feels fine in cold weather, thanks to their thick coat, but they can definitely feel the chill—and when they aren’t warm and comfortable, they could develop serious problems like hypothermia. So, it’s important to know the signs that your dog is cold, and to take steps to keep your pet comfy, whether they’re indoors or outside.  Although any dog can be affected by cold temperatures, wind, and snow, some are going to feel the drop in temperature sooner or more intensely. Puppies and seniors, as well as small dogs and those with short coats, are a few examples, along with hairless dogs and those who are ill or have chronic medical conditions.Signs Your Dog Is ColdHere are some of the ways to tell if your dog is cold:Your dog feels cold to the touch – An easy way to tell if your dog is cold is by petting them and feeling the temperature of their body. A good place to check is their ears, but also touch their paws, belly, and skin under their fur. If their body is cool to the touch, there are ways to warm them up.Your dog doesn’t want to be active – If your dog isn’t as active as they usually are, they might be feeling the chill in the air. Feel their body, as discussed above, to see if they’re cold, and take steps to make them warm. A dog who’s moving more slowly than normal while outside should be brought inside right away. Your dog is shivering – Just like people shiver when they’re cold, dogs will too, so this is an obvious sign that your pet needs to be warmed up as soon as possible. If your dog is trembling, consider the temperature inside your home, as you might need to turn the heat up. And if your dog is shaking while outside in the cold, bring them inside right away.Your dog is searching for ways to stay warm – If your dog wants to lie down next to the fireplace or heater, or they want to snuggle up next to you or under a blanket, they’re looking for ways to get warm. In addition, your dog might be reluctant to go outside, whether for a walk or to go potty. If they’re outside and you see them trying to find some shelter to warm up, bring them in immediately.  Your dog’s body language and vocalizations change – If you know your pet’s normal behavior and demeanor, it should be easy to tell when they’re cold. There will be signs that they’re uncomfortable, and they might exhibit anxious behaviors that let you know something is wrong. For example, your dog may tuck their tail, have a hunched posture, or curl up in a ball, and they might also bark or whimper. What To Do if Your Dog Is ColdWhenever your dog is showing signs of feeling cold, take action right away. Remember, a dog who gets too cold is at risk of hypothermia. Also, the cold can make some dogs, such as those with arthritis, experience even more discomfort. If your dog is outside, bring them inside. And if they’re wet from rain or snow, dry them gently.If your dog is already inside, move them to a warmer area, such as near a heat source and away from drafts.Help your dog feel warm and cozy indoorsYou can rub and massage your dog to help generate some warmth with your hands. Give your pet a cozy bed to rest in, and cover them with a blanket. You can also lie down next to your dog to help them warm up.There are heated dog beds you can use whenever your dog is chilly, along with dog heating pads that can work well too—just be sure to use these products as directed for safety and so your pet won’t get too hot. Keep your dog warm while outsideBefore heading outside with your dog, check the temperature. Generally, if it’s colder than 45°F (7°C), you should take additional precautions to ensure your pet won’t get too cold. But you know your individual dog best, so you’ll know when they need extra protection and less time outside.There are various jackets, sweaters, and boots made for dogs of all breeds and sizes. Put these on your canine companion before heading outside so they can stay warm while they go potty or go for a short walk.If it’s too cold for a walk or play session outside, don’t force your dog to stay out there. Instead, find ways to play with your dog indoors until the weather warms enough to be safer and more comfortable for your pooch.Use products that help your dog warm up and stay warmHere are a couple of items to consider buying for your dog: K&H Self-Warming Crate Pad

Lost Tortoise Found After 3 Years

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What You Need to Know About XL Bully Ban

American XL Bully dogs will be banned by the end of the year after numerous attacks were reported across the United Kingdom. The term "XL Bully" typically refers to a type of  American Bully breed known for its muscular build and larger size compared to standard American Bullies. These dogs are often selectively bred for their size, strength, and temperament, so while they are not inherently aggressive, they have the means to do some damage if they are reared to be dangerous.The ban has owners of bully breeds across the UK scared and confused, so here’s what you need to know about the details of this edict. Starting from December 31st, all XL Bullies will have to be kept on a lead and have a muzzle while in public. What is more, from this date it will be completely illegal to advertise, breed, sell, exchange, gift, or abandon or let stray any XL Bullies. In short – it is a decisive strike against this breed, as announced by Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, earlier this year.Furthermore, a complete ban on people owning XL Bullies will come into force in the UK from February 1st, 2023. This had owners scared that their pets would have to be put down just because of their breed, but, luckily, that’s not the case. If the owner applies before the end of January, with the wish to keep their pet. With that, the household will receive an exemption certificate, but it will also have to comply with a very strict set of rules related to the breed. UK government department Defra has announced that it received more than 4,000 exemption applications so far and that a “majority” were approved. Their spokesperson said that “ "The majority of applications are successful and the majority of successful applicants are receiving their certificates in less than a week."This only supports the assurances that there will be no “forced” euthanization of these dogs. However, those people that do not apply for an exemption by the end of the deadline, will have to put their XL Bullies down. They will be granted £200 to cover the costs of a vet euthanizing their dog. Rescue and rehoming organizations can claim £100 per animal for the same purpose. The government's website states "the euthanasia must be performed by 31 January 2024" for these financial claims to be successful. Sadly, because of this new law, at least 246 XL Bullies will be put down in the coming period, as their owners did not apply for an exemption, or were not granted one. American XL Bullies are not the first dogs to be banned in the UK. Several breeds were banned in the past, and owning them is now completely illegal. These breeds include the  Pitbull terrier,  Japanese Tosa,  Dogo Argentino, and  Fila Brasileiro. Owning a banned dog breed can get you in plenty of trouble, specifically an unlimited fine and a six-month prison sentence. 

From Woofs to Words: Pet Translation Device Is Just Around the Corner

What would be the first thing you’d ask your dog if they could talk instead of barking? If dogs talked you could learn how much your pooch loves you, or maybe you’d be more interested to know why Fido peed on the carpet, again.Unfortunately, this level of conversation is unlikely to happen any time soon. But recent advances in artificial intelligence and speech and translation technology may bring us one step closer to conversing with our pets.Thanks to AI, scientists are figuring out how to translate animals’ facial expressions and vocalizations into a language understandable to people. In recent years, scientists have been using AI systems to analyze a sheep’s face to determine whether an animal is in pain, and another one is being used to listen to the communication calls of marmoset monkeys.Dr. Con Slobodchikoff, an animal behaviorist and professor of biology at Northern Arizona University is an expert on animal communication. Slobodchikoff has spent 30 years trying to better understand the calls of prairie dogs. Together with a computer scientist colleague, he developed an algorithm that translates the vocalizations of prairie dogs into English. “I thought, if we can do this with prairie dogs, we can certainly do it with dogs and cats,” said Slobodchikoff according to NBC News. Slobodchikoff imagined a cell phone app or device that you could point to a dog to record a video and audio of a dog’s behavior and then upload it for an AI system to analyze. “The AI would translate this for you into English, or any other language,” explained Slobodchikoff. The translation, Slobodchikoff said, could be something like ‘I’m hungry’ or ‘I need to go outside to pee’ or ‘I want to go for a walk.’To teach an AI algorithm about the nuances of canine communication, Slobodchikoff collected thousands of videos of dogs showing various types of body movements and different types of barks. For this to work, Slobodchikoff has to explain to the AI algorithm what each bark and tail wag means. This means that, at this stage, scientists must provide explanations of canine body language and vocalization, which gives room to individual interpretation. However, Slobodchikoff strives to include the growing scientific research that uses data gained from actual experiments rather than guesswork to interpret the true meaning of canine behavior.Being able to understand what dogs are saying would help owners forge stronger bonds with their pets, but also much more. It would make caring for dogs much easier and also help save lives. According to ASPCA, around 920,000 cats and dogs are euthanized each year in the U.S. alone - in many cases, because of misunderstood behavioral problems. For example, a dog that exhibits aggressive behavior might simply be afraid or anxious, and if there was a device to help us understand its fears, it might be possible to help that dog and save its life. “You could use that information and instead of backing a dog into a corner, give the dog more space,” said Slobodchikoff.Keeping track of the advances made in this field, an Amazon-sponsored report on future trends predicted that we’ll have commercial pet translators in the next 10 years. Even if pet translators become a reality, it’s unlikely that we’ll be able to have a real conversation with our pets. But, with the help of this new technology, owners would be able to understand how their dogs feel, including if they are in pain or sick, and what makes them happy or sad.Although more research is needed, we are one step closer to translating barks.

Enigmatic Respiratory Illness Targets Dogs – These Are The Symptoms

A mysterious and seemingly quite dangerous dog respiratory illness is spreading across the United States– and has veterinarians perplexed. This illness is compared to pneumonia, as it starts with coughing and gradually worsens. To make matters even worse, the illness seems to be resistant to common antibiotics.Officials are now releasing  statements that say dogs are most likely to contract this enigmatic illness directly through contact with other dogs. What this means is that the danger lurks in dog parks, grooming salons, kennels, and any other place where a lot of dogs can be found.While there are some enigmatic aspects to the disease, there are ways, luckily, to recognize it quickly. The most common symptoms to keep an eye out for are coughing, trouble breathing, wheezing, sneezing, nasal and eye discharge, fatigue, lethargy, and so on. According to the Oregon Department of Agriculture, dogs who exhibit these symptoms may also test negative for common causes of respiratory illnesses. Needless to say, owners who spot these symptoms in their dogs should go to the vet immediately. In the meantime, vets are advising owners to avoid places with a lot of dogs for the time being, and also to make sure that their pets are “up to date” with all the necessary vaccinations. And although it is a new illness, officials at the Oregon Department of Agriculture have said that three main categories of cases can already be observed.Chronic mild-moderate tracheobronchitis with a prolonged duration (6 to 8 weeks or longer) that is minimally or not responsive to antibiotics. Chronic pneumonia that is minimally or not responsive to antibiotics.Acute pneumonia rapidly becomes severe and often leads to poor outcomes in as little as 24-36 hours.Checkups are advised, of course, and vets urge owners to schedule visits before exposing their dogs to potentially dangerous environments. According to officials, the illness had been reported in the following U.S. states: Washington, Idaho, Illinois, California, Indiana, Florida, Georgia, Colorado, Oregon, and New Hampshire.“Reduce contact with large numbers of unknown dogs.” the officials advise. “Just like with other respiratory pathogens, the more contacts your dog has, the greater the risk of encountering a dog that’s infectious.”While experts advise dog owners to be careful, but not to worry too much without a reason. Needless to say, you should avoid contact with dogs that look sick or exhibit symptoms such as coughing, wheezing, or runny nose and eyes. Do your best to keep your dog away from them. Another thing to avoid is communal water sources from which many dogs drink. And if your four-legged friend exhibits these symptoms, make sure to keep them at home in order to keep other dogs safe – and of course contact a vet to make sure they get the right treatment on time.

“One-of-a-Kind” Cat With Two Noses Searches for Her Forever Home

As rescue cat parents and rescue advocates, we know firsthand that every cat has a unique story to tell. But some cats truly stand out and make their mark on the world. Nanny McPhee, a rescue cat who recently came into the care of the Cats Protection Warrington Adoption Centre. It’s not the way this sweet girl came into the shelter or her life before that has everyone talking… It’s a VERY unique physical feature – her nose, or “noses,” in her case! The sweet kitty lived in a loving home for the first four years of her life. Unfortunately, her previous owner had to make the difficult decision to contact a rescue due to health and financial reasons. When Nanny McPhee first arrived at the rescue, volunteers and rescue workers noticed a few things about the tuxedo kitty. First, she was a very gentle lady with a love for attention.“She has proven to be a gentle lady who adores a fuss and a cuddle, and we are hopeful her new-found fame will mean she will have no shortage of potential adopters,” shared shelter manager Lindsay Kerr. “She really does deserve a home where she can settle down and become the center of a loving family.” Second, they noticed she had a surprisingly large nose. It was this unique feature that led to her being named after the popular children’s character. But that signature sniffer was hiding an even bigger secret. A check-up with a local veterinarian revealed that the cat had not one but TWO noses, creating the appearance of one large snout. When asked about the discovery, senior field veterinary officer Fiona Brockbank explained that it was the first time they had seen this but that the cat’s unique appearance resulted from a congenital malformation. Other more common examples of this include cleft palates or cleft lips. These conditions can be inherited or caused by an incident during development in utero.

Working Dog Gets Stolen and Dropped in a Shelter 700 Miles From Home

We all love our pooches, don’t we? It’s impossible to imagine that someone would be capable of stealing your four-legged companion. But, sadly many dogs get stolen every day. That’s exactly what happened to Hank, a 12-year-old McNab mix, who was working on a ranch in Oregon.The woman who brought Hank to the St. George Animal Shelter told the staff that she had found the dog locally. However, Hank was more than 700 miles away from home!“He was a working dog,” said Animal Service Officer Supervisor Cathy Freitas to St. George News. The pooch was found on a ranch in Oregon and driven to St. George by a woman who lied to the shelter staff and said that she found the dog in the local area. “The dog was absolutely well cared for and happy,” Freitas added. “And the person who saw it assumed otherwise and thought rather than going to the authorities and saying ‘I found a dog,’ she intentionally drove the dog from that area because she didn’t want it to go back to the owner thinking that it wasn’t well taken care of because it was outside… Not every dog is going to be happy lying on your couch and eating snacks.”The shelter posted a photo of Hank on social media, hoping someone would recognize him. Luckily, the post reached the right people, and a person in Idaho recognized the pooch. Soon, everything became much clearer.As it happens, Hanks was with his family for a long time, and they missed him terribly. Unfortunately, Hank’s owners didn’t know where to start looking for him because the people who took him had driven so far away. When the shelter got ahold of the owners, they immediately got into their vehicle and drove 700 miles to get their dog. That’s 1,400 miles round trip - a sure proof of the love and dedication that they have for their pooch.The owners explained that Hank is in the fifth generation of McNab dogs bred to work on the family’s ranch. People should know that there are working dogs, Freitas explained. These dogs are bred and trained to work and that’s where they feel the most comfortable and happy. If you happen to find a dog near livestock, there’s a good chance that it’s a working dog, and it’s best not to approach it. If the dog seems neglected or injured, contact Animal Services or nonemergency dispatch. This way the local authorities can check on the dog and get a hold of its owner. When it comes to Hank, the St. George Animal Shelter wouldn’t be able to hold his owners accountable if he had been neglected or abused because they are outside of the St. George Police Department’s jurisdiction.  The police from the dog’s hometown wouldn’t have been notified, giving the family a chance to adopt another dog.Taking a dog like this is extremely stressful for them and their family, but it can also put their herd at risk, as they would be without a guardian and more likely to become prey. Luckily, this story has a happy ending and Hank is back on the ranch, helping his owners with livestock. His family could press charges against the woman who took him, even though she might have had the dog’s best interest at heart. At the end of the day, she stole Hank and transported him across state lines. If you come across a dog herding livestock, stay a safe distance away and don’t offer any treats or food. According to Freitas, most working dogs aren’t aggressive towards people, but they can be if they sense their herd is at risk. Let’s not forget that working dogs aren’t house pets. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Ready for the Solar Eclipse? What You Need to Know

Sunglasses? Sunblock? Treats? What should your solar eclipse arsenal include?

What Should I Include in a Pet First Aid Kit?

As loving pet parents, we do everything possible to keep our furry companions safe and healthy. However, life is unpredictable, and accidents happen, so we must be prepared for unexpected emergencies. This includes ensuring we have a fully stocked, pet-friendly first aid kit available. In this article, we’ll discuss the essential items you should have on hand to care for your pet in those unforeseen moments. From basic cuts and scrapes to more severe injuries, you’ll be prepared to act as your pet’s first line of defense when it matters most. Can You Use a Human First Aid Kit on Dogs and Cats? Yes, sort of. Most of the items included in a human first aid kit can be used to treat your pet in the case of an emergency. You may be wondering – if they can use the same supplies, why do I need a first aid kit specifically for pets? Some items you won’t find in a human first aid kit may be necessary depending on your pet’s injury or ailment. These could address a problem that only a dog or cat could experience, or they may involve finding alternatives for human products that are unsafe for our pets, like human medications. What Human First Aid Products Can Be Used on Dogs and Cats? Most standard items in your first aid kit can be used on dogs and cats. For example, bandages, gauze pads, ice packs, and medical tape are all suitable for pets. They are the exact same items often included in both human and pet first aid kits. Tools like scissors, latex gloves, and tweezers will also be helpful when performing first aid on a pet. This means that if you currently have a standard human first aid kit at home, you are already well on your way to being prepared to take care of your pet in an emergency. To update your human first aid kit and make it suitable for pets, you will just need to add a few important items:

Is Dog Snoring Normal?

Does it sound like your pet’s sawing wood whenever they take a nap? We hear you. It just so happens that dogs can snore like humans do, and some do it quite often and quite loudly. But what causes snoring in dogs, and is it normal? And is there a way to limit, reduce, or altogether eliminate it? Here are all the deets on dog snoring you need to know.Is Dog Snoring Normal?First off, yes, dog snoring can be completely normal. Just like humans, dogs can snore for various reasons. In most cases, it is not something you should worry about. Still, it can be somewhat distracting, and you might want to know what causes it. A number of factors can contribute to this issue – here are the most common ones.Brachycephalic Breeds:Dogs with short noses and flat faces, known as brachycephalic breeds, are more prone to snoring. This conformation can lead to narrower air passages, making it harder for air to flow smoothly during breathing. Examples of brachycephalic breeds include Bulldogs, Pugs, Boxers, and Shih Tzus.Weight:Overweight, chubby dogs may snore more frequently because excess weight can put pressure on their airways. Combined with excess fat on their neck, and the sleeping position, their snoring can be quite loud, especially during sleep. Age:Believe it or not, age can cause snoring as well! Older dogs may snore more frequently and loudly as they age, just like some humans. Age can affect the muscles and tissues in a dog's throat. Older dogs may experience a relaxation of these tissues, contributing to snoring. Don't hold it against your senior furry friend, they can't help it!Sleeping Environment:Ultimately, the environment in which a dog sleeps can influence snoring. For example, if the room is too dry, it may irritate the nasal passages, or if it's too warm, dogs may breathe with their mouths open, contributing to snoring. Try to find an ideal environment for them, or consider using an air humidifier to moisturize dry air.

How Often Do Dogs Need to Go Out to Pee?

When nature calls, dogs answer. And when dogs answer, so do you – by taking them outside to do their business. In other words, if you have a potty-trained dog, they will rely on you to know when their bladder is full or at least to take them out frequently enough so it doesn’t get full in the first place. This leaves most owners with the question – how often do dogs need to go out to pee? You don’t want them to have an accident inside the home but you probably don’t want to take them out for a walk every hour or so (even if you did have the time for it) so it’s important to find the right balance. Here’s what you need to know so you can make it work for you and your dog.How Often Do Dogs Pee?The frequency at which dogs need to go out to pee can vary depending on several factors, including their age, breed, size, activity level, and overall health. In general, you can use the following guidelines as a starting point, but it's important to pay attention to your individual dog's needs and adjust accordingly. Sometimes, it’s enough to just observe the signs your dog gives you, like nudging you or standing by the door. But at other times, it requires a bit of “intervention”. When it comes to the connection between a dog’s age and their peeing habits, the younger the pooch, the more they need to go out. Puppies have smaller bladders and higher metabolisms, so they typically need to go out more frequently. A general rule of thumb is to take a puppy out every 1 to 2 hours, especially after eating, drinking, playing, or waking up from a nap. Make sure to let them know why you are going out so they’ll gradually relate walkies with peeing time.Adult dogs, on the other hand, can usually hold their bladders for longer periods. Most adult dogs need to go out every 4 to 6 hours. Some larger breeds may have more bladder capacity and can hold it longer, while smaller breeds may need to go out more frequently, so have that in mind too. Of course, as dogs age, their ability to hold their bladders may decrease. Senior dogs may need to go out more frequently, potentially every 3 to 4 hours. What is more, some senior dogs may suffer from incontinence, meaning that they can’t really control when or where they pee. In this case, you could  use disposable dog diapers until their condition improves or in periods when you’re not there to take them out more frequently and prevent accidents.

Scientists May Have Found a Better Way To Trim a Cat’s Nails

Trimming a cat’s nails is often a daunting affair for everyone involved. Most cats should have their nails trimmed every two to three weeks. Failing to do so leaves you and your furniture at the mercy of your kitty’s sharp claws.Specially designed to be smaller, cat nail clippers or scissors are commonly used to trim a cat’s nails, but they can be difficult to handle, especially if your cat doesn’t want to cooperate or is anxious. Additionally, there’s always a risk that you’ll end up scratched, bitten, and bleeding.This is where science can come in handy! Researchers from the University of California, Davis, are working with Sacramento SPCA to make nail trimming less stressful for cats and their owners. Jennifer Link, a Ph.D. student at the University of California, Davis, Animal Welfare Epi Lab, is working on a multistep protocol designed to desensitize the cats to handling and nail clipping. In mid-July, Link started to visit the Sacramento shelter five days a week for two hours to work on socializing rescued and surrendered cats to help them adjust to new people, situations, and environments. By the end of September, she had worked with more than 70 cats. “When people hear that I study cats, many ask if I can help them with nail trims,” said Link. According to Dan Marple, the animal welfare manager at the Sacramento Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, this research is vital to staff, donors, and volunteers because it can reduce the stress caused by nail trimming.“Any new protocols that increase the comfort and safe handling of the cats in our care will also improve their overall well-being and adoptability,” he added. Link’s research is promising because it incorporates cooperative care. This means that cats are allowed to decide how much they want to interact with the handler during the training process. Depending on their willingness to participate, the cats go through one of three scenarios with Link: a handling-only training protocol, a handling and nail-trimming protocol, or a control with no training and only a nail trim. Each interaction is recorded to be analyzed later. On the days when Link visits the shelter, the cats are removed from their cages and brought to a quiet room where Link is waiting, with a mat laid out before her. If a cat puts their front paws on the mat, they are given treats and cuddles. The idea is for cats to learn that Link interacts with them only when they put their paws on the mat. Once the cat leans this, Link proceeds with training protocols. Slowly, Link touches the cat’s legs, then the paws, and then the paws are gently squeezed. If the cat doesn’t resist, one nail is trimmed. The protocol builds on past steps and works up. When a cat goes through all the steps, they get a nail trim. If a cat doesn’t place their paws on the mat or rejects any step, Link stops the handling.“I think with cooperative care, it does seem to almost improve their trust in me,” Link explained. “They are more comfortable if we let them decide.”This research could make nail trimming at home much more comfortable for the cats and their owners. It can also decrease the number of visits to veterinary hospitals and clinics, where owners often seek help trimming their cats’ nails. The researchers still need to analyze the video sessions to finalize the protocol. And if the protocol is deemed helpful, they will share it with other shelters for more data.Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

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