Happy Birthday KaeJae!

Yesterday was the day we chose to celebrate KaeJae's birthday...he's two! We had a great party at Doggie Day Care of Fayette and he had fun! It was also my birthday, and it was much more fun being the mom of the birthday boy than celebrating my last year being 40 something!



Birthday boy didn't care for the hat...love the blur of him shaking it off his head!

KaeJae decided to lay beside our foster dog Gina and have a chew on his birthday present from Boo Bear.

Preparing Pets for Hurricanes

Pets and Hurricanes
Updated: July 29, 2008
BEFORE A HURRICANE THREATENS
www.eyewitnessnewstv.com

Be sure that your pets are up-to-date on their vaccinations and have proof of the vaccinations on hand. Many shelters may require proof of vaccines. Make sure you have copies stored in a waterproof container with other supplies so you don't forget to take them.

Keep a collar with ID on your pet and have a leash on hand to control your pet.

Make sure you have a current photograph of your pet.

PET DISASTER SUPPLY KIT

Proper identification
Current Photo
Immunization records
Ample supply of food and water
A carrier or cage
Medications
Muzzle, collar and leash

Keep a properly-sized pet carrier for each pet - carriers should be large enough for the animal to stand and turn around.

Plan your evacuation strategy and don't forget your pet! Specialized pet shelters, animal control shelters, veterinary clinics and friends and relatives out of harm's way are ALL potential refuges for your pet during a disaster.

If you plan to shelter your pet - work it into your evacuation route planning.

NEVER LEAVE A PET BEHIND DURING AN EVACUATION

Pets brought to a animal shelter are required to have: A proper identification collar and rabies tag, proper identification on all belongings, a carrier or cage, a leash, an ample supply of food, water and food bowls, any necessary medications, specific care instructions and newspapers or trash bags for clean-up.

Pet shelters will be filled on first come, first served basis. Call ahead and determine availability.

If you do not need to evacuate, bring pets indoors well in advance of a storm - reassure them and remain calm.

AFTER THE DISASTER

Walk your pets on a leash until they become re-oriented to their home - often familiar scents and landmarks may be altered, and pets could easily be confused and become lost. Also, downed power lines and debris can pose a threat for animals after a disaster.

If pets cannot be found after a disaster, contact your local animal control officer to find out where lost animals can be recovered. Bring along a picture of your pet if possible.

After a disaster animals, can become aggressive or defensive - monitor their behavior.


Read the entire article.

Visit Bandit's Buddies Now.

Give a Dog a Bone!

Not all dogs at the city shelter are strays. Not all are runaways or surrendered by owners. Not all are available for adoption. One group of dogs is never seen by the public. They are the dogs in custody, required by the courts to be held until their legal situation is resolved – a period lasting weeks, months, even a year.

Give a Dog a Bone is a quality of life program for these long-term shelter dogs held at San Francisco's Animal Care & Control - the city's municipal shelter. GADAB is changing the bleak existence of these dogs every day, one chew toy, one play session, one belly rub at a time. Find out more details about this unique program and the people who make it possible.Click here to read more.

Visit Bandit's Buddies Now.

Pentobarbital in Pet Food

Pentobarbital Is Killing Eagles But the FDA Says It's Safe for Pets
by Susan Thixton
NaturalNews.com

(NaturalNews) Just when you think you've seen it all and nothing would be too shocking to learn or read about the pet food industry, you stumble across something that causes your jaw to drop. I stumbled across something that proves once again –- you can't be too careful about the food and treats you give to your pet.

First – a little background information. Back in 2002, the FDA released a report of their 2-year study/testing finding pentobarbital (the drug used to euthanize animals) in pet food. Their findings were that many brands of pet foods –- purchased right off of store shelves -- contained the euthanizing drug pentobarbital. With that finding, the FDA began an 8-week test to see if levels of pentobarbital in pet food could be harmful to pets. The FDA testing showed that the amounts of pentobarbital in pet food would not harm pets (even though their study only tested dogs). You should know that the FDA ran their testing on 42 twelve week-old Beagles –- and again the testing was only for 8 weeks.

Pentobarbital was found in many pet foods yet was determined by the FDA not to be harmful to pets. And one more time –- the testing to determine this only lasted 8 weeks even though our pets might be eating this euthanizing drug in pet food their entire life.

So, to the point of this article -- I just stumbled upon a U.S. Fish and Wildlife report that stated pentobarbital is considered an environmental hazard "responsible for the deaths of over 140 Bald and Golden Eagles in recent years -- as well as numerous other wildlife and dogs." Other wildlife named in the report were California Condors, Vultures, Hawks, Wood Storks, Gulls, Crows, Ravens, Bears, Lynxes, Foxes, Bobcats, and Cougars.

This report stated the reason the wildlife was exposed to pentobarbital is from access to euthanized carcasses of farm animals and small animals in land fills. "Poisonings due to accidental feeding of tainted meat to captive animals have also been reported."

In big bold letters the report stated "Poisoning of eagles or other wild birds, even if accidental, violates Federal law!" This report also stated that Veterinarians and livestock owners have been recently fined for 'involuntary killing' of eagles. "Veterinarians must inform clients that a pentobarbital euthanized carcass is poisonous and requires proper disposal. The client needs to know that the carcass can poison and kill scavenging animals, including federally protected species, other wildlife, or even pet dogs."

Even though the FDA determined through their eight week test that pentobarbital in pet food was Not harmful to our pets, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Agency is saying that pentobarbital euthanized carcasses are killing wildlife, including endangered species. Do we have a conflict between Federal Agencies?

As I wondered about the 'conflict' between the FDA and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Agency, I continued to dig a little further, and that's when I found the jaw dropper document. I wondered if the FDA had any information regarding the U.S. Fish and Wildlife report –- and low and behold, I found something...
Dated July 21, 2003 (a little over a year after the FDA's report that pentobarbital found in pet food was determined to be safe for our pets to consume) –- the FDA posted a change in the labeling requirements for pentobarbital and a change in the definitions. The following are the quoted changes... "Special considerations. Product labeling shall bear the following warning statements: ENVIRONMENTAL HAZARD: This product is toxic to wildlife. Birds and mammals feeding on treated animals may be killed. Euthanized animals must be properly disposed of by deep burial, incineration, or other method in compliance with state and local laws, to prevent consumption of carcass material by scavenging wildlife." And "Limitations. Do not use in animals intended for food."

So this is what we have: Euthanized animals are being rendered and the end ingredients become ingredients used in pet food. The FDA determined that the pet food/treat ingredient most likely to contain pentobarbital is Animal Fat. Pets are consuming pentobarbital as you read this right now.
Pentobarbital euthanized animal carcasses are killing wildlife. The FDA's own rules for the drug specify its limitations 'not for use in animals intended for food.' Yet it's still there. Granted, and geez I hate to give them this, the amount of pentobarbital in pet food –- since it is found in only some pet food and pet treat ingredients (but some very commonly used ingredients) –- is not at the same levels as would be consumed by wildlife in a euthanized carcass. But come on folks (FDA, CVM, and AAFCO) –- can you not add two and two and come up with four?

Personally, I think the FDA should again test pet food for pentobarbital and any dog food, cat food, dog treat, or cat treat (and any other animal feed for that matter) that contains even the slightest bit of the drug –- the manufacturer should be heavily fined. With respect to our national treasures –- the Bald Eagles and Golden Eagles: "The laws provide for substantial fines and prison sentences in criminal cases. For example, the maximum fine for violating the Eagle Act is $100,000.00 for a person or $200,000.00 for an organization and one year in prison." Under Federal Law 'intent' in not required for conviction –- criminal convictions require the violation be 'knowingly' committed. With respect to our pets, we've got a 'knowingly' committed act. The guilty pet food manufacturers knowingly purchase ingredients that contain pentobarbital. Yet no one fines them for breaking the law.

One year (2002) the FDA determines pentobarbital in pet food is perfectly safe for our pets to consume, and the very next year (2003) they determine pentobarbital an environmental hazard responsible for killing over 140 eagles. No further study or regulation change within the FDA has occurred since the 2003 label change. Did they forget about our pets? I think so.

Eagles are a national treasure –- no grey area there. Our pets are a treasure as well. They enhance our lives. They are family. To allow pentobarbital euthanized animals to be cooked and placed into pet food is criminal and should be stopped immediately.

One more quote from the FDA document dated July 21, 2003, "This rule does not meet the definition of "rule" in 5 U.S.C. 804(3)(A) because it is a rule of "particular applicability." Therefore, it is not subject to the congressional review requirements in 5 U.S.C. 801-808." I'm just guessing that the above quote means 'let's keep this quiet. After all, if people find out about this, we might have to go back and change what we said about pet food.' Just a guess. Wishing you and your pets the best.

Read the entire article.

Robin's Notes:
Personally, I am really glad to be feeding Life's Abundance, made from all HUMAN QUALITY ingredients. It's frightening to me when we think of our government agencies as here to "serve and protect"...sure doesn't feel like that to me.

Visit Bandit's Buddies Now.

Snake Bites

From: aspca.org

Pet Poison Alert: Snake Bite Prevention and Safety Tips

Planning any nature hikes this summer? Please take care to prevent your curious pets from painful encounters with snakes. This applies to urban, suburban and deep country animals alike. Take Stone, the four-year-old pit bull who was surprised last Tuesday, when a diamondback rattler, likely an escaped and illegally kept pet, bit him on the face in a Bronx, NY, park. Stone’s owner did exactly what he should have: he immediately brought his dog to an animal care facility. Stone could have died from the snake bite within 24 hours had he not received the antidote, two injections of antivenin, so quickly.

“A snake bite is always considered an emergency, because even a bite from a nonvenomous snake can be dangerous,” says Dr. Safdar Kahn, Director of Toxicology at the ASPCA Poison Control Center in Urbana, IL, who offers the following bite prevention tips:

Walk your pet on a leash.
Steer your pet clear of long grasses, bushes and rocks.
Tidy up your yard by clearing away undergrowth, toys and tools that make great hiding places for snakes.

Clean up spilled food, fruit or bird seed, which can attract rodents—and therefore snakes—to your yard.

A snake can strike from a distance equal to about half his body length, so if you see a snake, head back the way you came.

If you think your pet has been bitten, keep him calm by limiting his activity.

Click here for additional information.

Visit Bandit's Buddies Now.

Dog Days of Summer

The Dog Days of Summer
www.hsus.org

Common sense tells most people that leaving their pet inside a parked vehicle on a hot, summer day could be dangerous after an extended period of time. But most people don't realize that the temperature can skyrocket after just a few minutes. Parking in the shade or leaving the windows cracked does little to alleviate this pressure cooker.

On a warm, sunny day windows collect light, trapping heat inside the vehicle, and pushing the temperature inside to dangerous levels. On an 85-degree Fahrenheit day, for example, the temperature inside a car with the windows opened slightly can reach 102 degrees within ten minutes. After 30 minutes, the temperature will reach 120 degrees. At 110 degrees, pets are in danger of heatstroke. On hot and humid days, the temperature in a car parked in direct sunlight can rise more than 30 degrees per minute, and quickly become lethal.

A recent study by the Stanford University School of Medicine showed that temperatures inside cars can rise dramatically even on mild days. With outside temperatures as low as 72 degrees, researchers found that a car's interior temperature can heat up by an average of 40 degrees within an hour, with 80% of that increase in the first 30 minutes. A cracked window provides little relief from this oven effect. The Stanford researchers found that a cracked window had an insignificant effect on both the rate of heating and the final temperature after an hour.

Pets, more so than humans, are susceptible to overheating. While people can roll down windows, turn on the air conditioner or exit the vehicle when they become too hot, pets cannot. And pets are much less efficient at cooling themselves than people are.

Dogs, for example, are designed to conserve heat. Their sweat glands, which exist on their nose and the pads of their feet, are inadequate for cooling during hot days. Panting and drinking water helps cool them, but if they only have overheated air to breathe, dogs can suffer brain and organ damage after just 15 minutes. Short-nosed breeds, like pugs and bulldogs, young pets, seniors or pets with weight, respiratory, cardiovascular or other health problems are especially susceptible to heat-related stress. read the entire article.

Visit Bandit's Buddies Now.

Thunderstorm Phobia

Natural Treatments

An article in The Whole Dog Journal reports that one of the most effective treatments for thunderstorm phobia is melatonin, an over-the-counter hormone used by humans to treat insomnia.

Dr. Nicholas Dodman and his colleague Dr. Linda Aronson of the behavioral section at Tufts New England Veterinary Medical Center had been looking for something that would help reduce canine thunderstorm phobias when they discovered research papers on the effect of melatonin. Research indicated a positive effect of melatonin on dogs that continually lick their flanks as well as a calming effect on chickens in overcrowded conditions.

Drs. Dodman and Aronson wondered whether melatonin might work on noise phobic dogs. The first dog to try it was Dr. Aronson's own Bearded Collie who had severe thunder phobia after lightening struck very near her house. The effect of the melatonin was dramatic. The dog simply stopped being afraid instead of tearing around the house and digging at the carpets. The melatonin did not put her to sleep, she stayed awake and alert -- just not bothered by the thunder.

Drs. Dodman and Aronson then gave the melatonin to other dogs and produced the same result. Melatonin worked for other noise fears (one dog was afraid of songbirds) as well, including fireworks!

Melatonin is sold in capsules and tablets in health food stores, pharmacies and some supermarkets. It is sold in doses as low as 200 micrograms (mcg.). For most dogs, Aronson prescribes 3 milligrams (mg.) In a few cases, dogs weighing over one hundred pounds needed 6 mg. but that was unusual. Aronson usually gives dogs that weigh less than 30 pounds, 1.5 mg. Although they have not treated any phobic really tiny dogs, Aronson would reduce the dosage further for them.

It's important to read the labels on melatonin bottles very carefully. Some are mixed with herbs or nutrients that may not be safe for dogs. Make sure you buy the correct dosage for your size dog. Remember, there are 1,000 micrograms (mcg.) in a milligram (mg.) so a 200 mcg. pill contains only 1/15 of the amount recommended for a large dog.

Because melatonin is not regulated by any federal agency, the quality varies greatly from manufacturer to manufacturer. If an inferior product is administered, it may not be effective in calming a dog whereas a higher quality product might be. We cannot recommend any particular brand that is best, so the best course of action is purchase the product from a supplier you trust and believe to carry better quality. Some holistic veterinarians sell melatonin and their products might be better quality.

You can give your dog melatonin before you leave for the day if thunderstorms are predicted because it remains effective for several hours. Otherwise, give it when thunder seems imminent. Give melatonin immediately when you see your dog becoming agitated. If your dog has automimmune disease or severe liver or kidney disease, check with your veterinarian before giving melatonin.

The April 2000 issue of The Whole Dog Journal has a comprehensive five page article on remedies that do not use drugs. The May 2000 issue has a complete article on melatonin and other holistic phobia remedies. To purchase a copy, contact The Whole Dog Journal at (800) 424-7887 or customer_service@belvoir.com. This is an excellent publication that does not accept any advertising. Read the entire article.

Read more about Melatonin.

Visit Bandit's Buddies Now.

Going green with your dog!

Going green benefits your dog's health as well as the planet

You recycle. You eat organic. You put on a sweater before you crank up the heat. But have you ever considered your dog's effect on the environment? And have you thought about what the environment's doing to your dog?
The surprising answer: quite a lot. A recent study from eco-watchdogs Environmental Working Group found that cats and dogs are carrying around a cocktail of 48 different industrial chemicals in their bodies--many of them at much higher levels than what's found in people. Some of those chemicals have been linked to thyroid problems, birth defects, and cancer, among other conditions.

Chief among the chemicals accumulating in dogs: flame retardants from beds, furniture, and polluted food; stain and grease-proofing chemicals from carpets, dog beds, and dog food packaging; and plastic softeners known as phthalates, which are found in products ranging from shampoos to toys to medicines.

Then there's the toll our pooches take on the planet. The 10 million pounds of poop they churn out every year in the U.S. alone, for starters, and the chemical fallout of our war against fleas and ticks.

Ready for the good news yet? Here it is: You can shrink your pup's environmental pawprint dramatically, without overhauling your life, and your dog may reap some health benefits. Read the entire article.

Visit Bandit's Buddies Now.

Cell Phone Warning

Pittsburgh cancer institute urges limit on cellphone use
By Jennifer C. Yates and Seth Borenstein

PITTSBURGH - The head of a prominent cancer research institute issued an unprecedented warning to his faculty and staff yesterday: Limit cellphone use because of the possible risk of cancer.

The warning from Dr. Ronald B. Herberman, director of the University of Pittsburgh Cancer Institute, conflicts with numerous studies that have not found a link between increased tumors and cellphone use, and a public lack of worry by the US Food and Drug Administration.

Herberman is basing his alarm on early, unpublished data. He says it takes too long to get answers from science and he believes people should take action now, especially when it comes to children.

"Really at the heart of my concern is that we shouldn't wait for a definitive study to come out, but err on the side of being safe rather than sorry later," Herberman said.

Herberman's advice is sure to raise concern among many cellphone users and especially parents.

In the memo he sent to about 3,000 faculty and staff yesterday, he says children should use cellphones only for emergencies because their brains are still developing.

Adults should keep the phone away from the head and use the speakerphone or a wireless headset, he says. He even warns against using cellphones in public places such as on a bus because it exposes others to the phone's electromagnetic fields.
Read the entire article.

Visit Bandit's Buddies Now.

Teen Activists

Press Release:
Teens Become Activists for Animal Protection

Deborah Howard President of Companion Animal Protection Society Wants You to Help Eliminate Pet Shops and Puppy Mills

(Greater Boston Area) – Register to become a teen activist today at www.caps2point0.org! By being a part of the CAPS 2.0 community, you can find resources to stay informed and learn how to become an activist. Learn about breeders and brokers through CAPS undercover investigations. The caps2point0.org website has reports, photos and undercover footage. As an activist, you can spread the word by leafleting and putting up posters in your school. Organize your own protest on behalf of the animals against pet shops that have poor conditions.

According to Deborah Howard, President of the Companion Animal Protection Society (CAPS), “more than 90 percent of pet shops obtain their puppies from puppy mills” that completely disregard the mental, physical, and emotional well-being of the animals they mass produce each year. “Puppy mills exist solely for profit, with the dogs treated like puppy-producing machines that turn feed into puppies,” said a CAPS undercover investigator. “The animals are often treated with a minimal standard of care with little or no concern for their well-being.” It’s not uncommon for pet shop puppies to be treated for upper respiratory infections, ear and eye infections, and parasites once they arrive at the store or their new home. Other problems, such as luxating patellas and hip dysplasia, often develop later in these puppies’ lives – sometimes years after they were purchased. Inform those you know why they should refrain from buying puppies at pet shops and online.By being young activists fighting the puppy mill industry you can educate consumers to help end the horrific plight of the pet store puppy.

About: The Companion Animal Protection Society is the only national nonprofit dedicated exclusively to protecting companion animals, CAPS' foremost concern is the abuse and suffering of pet shop and puppy mill dogs. Founded in 1992, CAPS actively addresses this issue through investigations, education, media relations, legislative involvement, puppy mill dog rescues, consumer assistance, and pet shop employee relations.

Visit Bandit's Buddies Now.

Lyme Disease

By looking at this map, it is interesting to highlight certain points:

The Northeast is the traditional place when you think of Lyme and is quite evident in figure 8.

The Midwest is a rapidly emerging area of Lyme activity recently and is unfortunately poorly recognized in this map. Dr. Masters, a Lyme expert in Cape Girardeau, has shown that Borrelia is causing Lyme disease in Missouri.

The South; from Texas to Florida, and from Georgia to Virginia, where knowledge of the disease is still very limited, tick populations are large, and vector-borne disease cycles are still poorly understood and under reported.


Read the entire article.

Visit Bandit's Buddies Now.

New Cat in Your Home?

Getting off to a Purrfect Start with your new Cat
(this advice applies to both male and female, so we’ve used both him and her to refer to your new pet!)
Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine

Congratulations on your new companion! To be at their
best, cats have some basic needs; providing them will help
ensure your cat’s long-term health and welfare. If these
needs are not met, your cat may feel stressed, which can
affect both health and behavior.

Cats seem to prefer having their own space, to feel like they
are “in control” of their surroundings, and to choose the
changes they want to make. To help you “get off on the
right foot “ with your new cat, we have provided descriptions
of what an “ideal” house might include. Your cat might not
need all these features to get along, but making your house
more “cat friendly” will ensure that you and your new cat
enjoy each other’s company for years to come.

Read the entire article.

Visit Bandit's Buddies Now.

Perfect Eyes

Perfect Eyes is on sale this week!

$2 OFF - $15.70
Order 4 Get 5 - $70.80

Scientific evidence suggests that the herbs/nutrients found in Perfect Eyes can strengthen the eyes and help them to heal. Below are the ingredients:

Eyebright: This herb is used historically for eye conditions because its flower looks like an eye. The traditional use has been as an external eyewash for conjunctivitis, sore eyes, tired eyes and poor vision. Taken internally, it is an decongestant and mild astringent. It has affinity for the liver, which Chinese medicine states is connected to eye functions.

Lutein: Lutein is the main carotenoid found in cruciferous vegetables. Lutein belongs to the carotenoid family of pigments and is particularly rich in dark green vegetables such as spinach, kale, and collard greens. It is also found in the macular region of the retina of the eye. Supplementing with lutein may be beneficial for those suffering with macular degeneration.

Research shows that lutein can increase pigmentation in the macula. One study showed the optical density in the macula increased by almost 40% when the subjects were given a supplement containing lutein. Results were noticed as early as three weeks into the study.

Bilberry: The bilberry is a European relative of the blueberry and cranberry. During World War II, it was discovered that pilots eating bilberry preserves had better night vision. Bilberry stimulates the regeneration of rhodopsin, the pigment that is responsible for night vision. Long term use od bilberry may help those who suffer with nearsightedness and visual acuity.

Curcumin: Curcumin is the standardized extract of turmeric. Turmeric has been used in the Indian culture for centuries as the main spice in curries. Turmeric is what makes American mustard so yellow.

Curcumin has been studied extensively for its anti-inflammatory effects. It is also well-known for being an antioxident. By scavenging for free radicals, curcumin aids ocular health.

Beta Carotene: Beta carotene is known as one of the best antioxidants and free radical scavengers. Studies have shown that people with low levels of serum beta-carotene more likely to develop cataracts.

Mixed Carotenoids: Did you know that there are nearly 600 carotenoids found in fruits and vegetables? They are abundant in carrots. Some of these lesser known carotenoids are lutein (mentioned earlier), lycopene, alpha-carotene, zeaxanthin, and cryptoxanthin.

N-Acetyl-Cysteine (NAC): Our aging bodies easily convert NAC into the eye protecting antioxidant glutathione, which makes NAC supplementation an important element in protecting the eye.

Taurine: An amino acid that protects proteins in the lens of the eye.

Zinc Gluconate and Selenium: These powerful antioxidants are particularly beneficial to older individuals.

Quercetin and Hesperidin: These bioflavonoids act as antioxidants to protect they eye against toxic damage.

Label Ingredients and % IU Per Capsule:

Vitamin A (as beta-carotene)1250 IU
Zinc (as gluconate)7 mg
Selenium (as amino acid chelate)25 mcg
Lutein (marigold flower extract)3 mg

Proprietary blend 356.2 mg of:

Eyebright Flowers (Euphrasia officinale), Bioflavonoids (hesperidin, quercetin), N-Acetyl-l-Cysteine, Taurine, Mixed carotenoids (lycopene, alpha-carotene, cryptoxanthin, zeaxanthin), Bilberry Fruit Concentrate (Vaccinium myrtillus), Curcuma Root Extract (Curcuma longa.


Click here to purchase at the sale price.

Visit Bandit's Buddies Now.

Rabies Challenge: Tennessee

RABIES VACCINATION CHALLENGE IN TENNESSEE
FACTS ABOUT THE RABIES VACCINE AND YOUR PET

• The National Association of State Public Health Veterinarian’s (NASPHV) Compendium of Rabies Prevention and Control used to develop Tennessee’s anti-rabies law declares that “All vaccines must be administered in accordance with the specifications of the product label or package insert. …. Vaccines used in state and local rabies control programs should have at least a 3-year duration of immunity. ….. No laboratory or epidemiologic data exist to support the annual or biennial
administration of 3- or 4-year vaccines following the initial series.”

• Tennessee’s state anti-rabies law, Title 68 Chapter 8 Section 103 (i) declares that “Nothing in this section shall be construed to require more frequent rabies vaccinations or a greater number of rabies vaccinations than are required by the rabies compendium,” and defines the “compendium” under Section 102 (3) as “the most recent issue of the national ‘Compendium of Animal Rabies Prevention and Control’ published by the Association of State Public Health Veterinarians..”

• Colorado State University's Small Animal Vaccination Protocol for its veterinary teaching hospital states: “Even with rabies vaccines, the label may be misleading in that a three year duration of immunity product may also be labeled and sold as a one year duration of immunity product.”

• According to Dr. Ronald Schultz, Chair of the Department of Pathobiological Sciences at the University of Wisconsin School of Veterinary Medicine, “There is no benefit from annual rabies vaccination and most one year rabies products are similar
or identical to the 3-year products with regard to duration of immunity and effectiveness.”

• The American Veterinary Medical Association's 2001 Principles of Vaccination state that “Unnecessary stimulation of the immune system does not result in enhanced disease resistance, and may increase the risk of adverse post-vaccination events.”

• This is very important because the rabies vaccine is the most potent of all veterinary vaccines and is associated withsignificant adverse reactions, it should not be given more often than is necessary to maintain immunity. Adverse reactions
such as autoimmune diseases affecting the thyroid, joints, blood, eyes, skin, kidney, liver, bowel and central nervous system; anaphylactic shock; aggression; seizures; epilepsy; and fibrosarcomas at injection sites are linked to rabies vaccinations.

• Veterinarians are not required by law to report adverse reactions to vaccines, to which the World Small Animal Veterinary Association stated in their 2007 Vaccine Guidelines that there is: "gross under-reporting of vaccine-associated adverse
events which impedes knowledge of the ongoing safety of these products," In light of the 10,000 adverse reactions to the rabies vaccine in the JAVMA report, 65% of which were in dogs, the estimated 1% reporting of "serious" events by the former head of the FDA means that the actual number of dogs that had adverse reactions to the vaccine would be more like 650,000!!!!!

What can you do?

• Talk with your vet. Request your pet only receive the three year rabies vaccine. It may have to be ordered, so plan ahead.

• Write to your State of TN representatives. Let them know you would like the State Recommendations for the three year rabies vaccine, Title 68 Chapter 8 to be enforced consistently statewide.

For more information, please check these websites:

The Rabies Challenge Fund: http://www.rabieschallengefund.org/

Information about the Rabies Challenge in Tennessee: http://pets.groups.yahoo.com/group/

Visit Bandit's Buddies Now.

Wellness Food Supplement for Dogs

I am excited to report that Dr. Jane Bicks has developed a new whole food supplement for dogs, called "Life’s Abundance Wellness Food Supplement for Dogs".

Supplementing your dog’s diet can play a crucial role in maintaining overall health. We know that some dogs require additional nutritional intake to help them maintain a healthy body, due to age, breed, environment and other factors. Based on this premise, Dr. Jane formulated a brand new formula to enhance your dog’s daily diet. The perfect complement to a healthy diet, Life’s Abundance Wellness Food Supplement for Dogs is formulated with a broad array of naturally nutritious ingredients from real food to help maintain overall health. The nutrients contained in this superior supplement are sourced from foods, like poultry liver, cranberries, carrots, eggs, pineapples and many others.

Ingredients:
Dicalcium Phosphate, Poultry Liver Meal, Maltodextrins, Microcrystalline Cellulose, Calcium Ascorbate, a-Tocopherol Acetate, Lecithin, Dried Pineapple, Magnesium Stearate, Taurine, Dried Cranberry, Dried Carrot, Dried Egg Product, Dried Enterococcus faecium Fermentation Product, Dried Lactobacillus acidophilus Fermentation Product, Dried Lactobacillus casei Fermentation Product, Dried Lactobacillus fermentum Fermentation Product, Dried Lactobacillus lactis Fermentation Product, Dried Lactobacillus plantarum Fermentation Product, Dried Pediococcus pentosaceus Fermentation Product, Dried Tomato Pomace, Dehydrated Alfalfa Meal, Stabilized Rice Bran, Ground Flaxseed, Dried Parsley, Ground Ginger.

Recommended Daily Feeding For Your Dog:

Less than 20 lbs..................½ Tablet
20 - 40 lbs.......................1 - 1 ½ Tablets
40 - 60 lbs.......................1 ½ - 2 Tablets
60 - 80 lbs.......................2 - 2 ½ Tablets

For each additional 20 lbs. add a ½ tablet.

Click here for more information.

Visit Bandit's Buddies Now.

Gina and KaeJae

I posted when we took in Gina, our foster dog through the Fayette County Humane Society, a couple of weeks ago. Gina, along with 6 other dogs were rescued from a dog "breeder" in South Georgia. Gina's vet exam has revealed a very loud heart murmur, along with an eye infection and ear mites and awful breath from bad teeth! Gina is getting an Ultrasound of her heart on Tuesday and we are running titers to see what she is already immuned to, so that unnecessary vaccinations don't take place. She's really coming out of her shell, wagging her tail and learning that humans aren't all bad folks after all. This picture is of her and Kae Jae, our JRT mix, having a "sort of" snuggle on the couch. If you would like to contribute to the great need that the Fayette County Humane Society has for these rescued dogs, please read more at www.fayettehumane.org.

Visit Bandit's Buddies Now.

Are we overvaccinating?

By: Dr Bob Rogers

My dog Splash was vaccinated for DHP at 8 & 12 weeks, Rabies at 16 weeks, and DHP Rabies again at one year. I am through vaccinating.

Splash goes to the Clinic with me weekly where he is potentially exposed to parvo and distemper. We go on 25 mile horseback rides through the woods where there are skunks and bats.

I feel confident he is protected for life.

With the prevailing recommendations, a 12 year old dog would receive vaccinations for 157 antigens in it's lifetime. By omitting unnecessary vaccines like Lyme, Corona and Lepto and by following the every three -year compromise recommended by the American Animal Hospital Association that number of antigens would be reduced to 32.

Likewise the number of antigens administered in the lifetime of a 12 year old cat would be reduced from 107 -135 to 32 by following the recommendations of the American Association of Feline Practitioners.

These new protocols will provide the same protection, but with much less risk of adverse reactions.

Read the entire article.
Visit Bandit's Buddies Now.

Pet Massage

Animal Massage: The Touch That Heals
Allen M. Schoen, D.V.M., M.S.

Animal massage can benefit both you and your pet in many ways. It is a wonderful way to connect with them at many different levels and to share quality time together. It can be done while listening to music, sitting in your favorite chair or couch, laying down in front of the fireplace on a cold autumn day, or while watching T.V.. There are a number of massage techniques depending upon what your goal is. You can use massage just to help your pet relax or to bond with them, to enjoy the magic of touch or it can be beneficial therapeutically in certain conditions. If you notice, pets stretch on their own to relax and keep in shape. Certain yoga postures are actually named after animal stretches such as the dog stretch and the cat stretch! However, as animals get older and stiff, they can't stretch and move around as easily. There are many natural approaches to help this including nutritional supplements, acupuncture as well as massage. Read the entire article.

Visit Bandit's Buddies Now.

Feline Vaccines: The Good, The Bad and the Ugly

Dennis W. Macy DVM, MS
Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado 80523

The current practice in preventive veterinary medicine, which has been "if it is available, give it and give it yearly" is changing. Not all cats need all available vaccines nor do they need any of them annually. Rabies, Microsporum canis, panleukopenia (FPV), feline viral rhinotracheitis (FHV-1), calicivirus (FCV), FeLV, feline infectious peritonitis, Chlamydia psittaci, Bordetella bronchiseptica,, and Giardia vaccines are available for cats. With the exception of some rabies vaccines, all feline vaccines are recommended by the manufacturer to be given annually. Are all these vaccines really necessary for every cat every year? Are there published case reports of clinical disease in vaccinated cats that miss their boosters? Do you receive all available human vaccines yearly? What is the scientific evidence that the feline immune system is that much different than that of humans? The American Association of Feline Practitioners, at least ten North American Colleges of Veterinary Medicine, the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine (oncology specialty), the United States Army veterinary hospitals worldwide, and veterinary virologists now endorse similar recommendations of a limited number of vaccines.43-46 Core vaccines, those that should be administered to all cats, include FPV, FHV-1, FCV and rabies virus. Following the initial vaccination period and 1 year booster, these vaccines should be administered no more frequently than every three years. Vaccines considered non-core are those to be used only in some cats or special circumstances. Examples include vaccines for B. bronchiseptica, feline infectious peritonitis, feline leukemia, C. psittaci, Giardia, and M. canis. Read the entire article.

Visit Bandit's Buddies Now.

A Different View of the Dog Whisperer

From: Companion Animal News
Fall 2006 Edition

“Dog Whisperer” Training Approach More Harmful Than Helpful

DENVER, Sept. 6, U.S. Newswire – The training tactics featured on Cesar Millan's "Dog Whisperer" program are inhumane, outdated and improper, according to a letter sent yesterday to the National Geographic Channel by American Humane, the oldest national organization protecting children and animals.

In the letter, American Humane, which works to raise public awareness about responsible pet ownership and reduce the euthanasia of unwanted pets, expressed dismay over the “numerous inhumane training techniques” advocated by Cesar
Millan on “Dog Whisperer.”

Several instances of cruel and dangerous treatment - promoted by Millan as acceptable training methods - were documented by American Humane, including one in which a dog was partially asphyxiated in an episode. In this instance,the fractious dog was pinned to the ground by its neck after first being “hung” by a collar incrementally tightened by Millan. Millan’s goal - of subduing a fractious animal - was accomplished by partially cutting off the blood supply to its brain.

Read the entire article.

A view from the San Francisco-SPCA.

Visit Bandit's Buddies Now.

Strengthened Warning from FDA

FDA Strengthens Warnings On Fluroquinolone Antibiotics Because They Can Harm Tendons
09 Jul 2008

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has asked the makers of fluroquinolone antibiotics to place a boxed warning on the label information for doctors and patients to alert them that this class of drug can increase the risk of tendinitis and tendon rupture in some patients. The Agency has also asked them to develop a Medication Guide for patients.

The increased warning applies only to systemic use of fluoroquinolones, such as in pills, tablets, capsules and injections; it does not apply to topical ophthalmic or otic use, as in eye and ear drops.

These measures will strengthen the existing label warning, and are part of what the agency calls a Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategy (REMS) to ensure that the benefits of the drugs outweigh the risks.

The manufacturers have 30 days to comply with the request, or raise reasonable objections, such as changes in wording of the warning. If the FDA does not agree with the objections, it has the power to enforce the changes. The manufacturers are also required to assess the REMS, for instance by surveying patient and doctor awareness that the new warnings are being heeded.

Dr Edward Cox, director of the Office of Antimicrobial Products at the FDA's Center for Drug Evaluation and Research (CDER), said in a statement released Tuesday that:

"Fluoroquinolones are effective in treating certain bacterial infections, but health care professionals and patients need to be aware of the increased risk associated with the use of these drugs of developing tendinitis and tendon rupture, particularly for certain patient populations."

The risk of tendinitis and tendon rupture is even greater if the patient taking a fluoroquinolone antibiotic is over 60, or has had a kidney, heart and/or lung transplant, or taking steroids, said the CDER via an alert placed on its website on Monday.

Ciprofloxacin (Cipro from Bayer, also available as generic ciprofloxacin)
Ciprofloxacin extended release (Cipro XR from Bayer, and Proquin XR from Depomed)
Gemifloxacin (Factive from Oscient)
Levofloxacin (Levaquin from Ortho-McNeil)
Moxifloxacin (Avelox from Bayer)
Norfloxacin (Noroxin from Merck)
Ofloxacin (Floxin from Ortho-McNeil and generic ofloxacin)

read the entire article.

Visit Bandit's Buddies Now.

Car Alarm for Heatstroke

Hanna teen detects need for pet alarm
Science star knows hot cars and animals don't mix; NAIT helps with project

Clara Ho, The Edmonton Journal
Tuesday, July 08, 2008

Brian Larson hopes to see a decrease in the number of pets perishing as a result of being left in overheated vehicles.

"I think most pet owners know that vehicles can get very hot, but they just don't realize how fast it happens," Larson said.

That's why the 13-year-old science whiz from Hanna, about 300 kilometres southeast of Edmonton, is spending his summer collecting data to develop an alarm system that will alert pet owners when temperatures get too hot for their furry friends.

With the help of NAIT's electronics engineering technology department, Larson said he wants to develop a prototype that he can eventually bring to market.

He described the alarm system as a little box that would be installed in the vehicle to record temperature and humidity. When it reaches levels deemed dangerous for a pet, the system would send a frequency to a device similar to a keychain fob and set off an alarm.

"My device would give (pet owners) time to get back to the car before their pet suffered from heatstroke." Read the entire article.

Visit Bandit's Buddies Now.

Eating Strange Objects

www.hsus.org

If your pet has an appetite for such oddities as socks, rocks, or even feces, chances are you've wondered—and worried—about her unusual eating habits. In this case, your worry may be justified: Not only can your possessions be destroyed or damaged, but objects such as clothing and rocks can produce life-threatening blockages in your pet's intestines. Eating non-food items has a name: It's called pica. A specific type of pica is stool eating—either the dog's own or that of another animal. It's called coprophagy. Rarely seen in cats, coprophagy is fairly common in dogs, especially those who tend to be highly food-motivated. And although it's not necessarily dangerous to the animal, it probably is unacceptable to you.

Suggested Solutions for Coprophagy

Because the cause of coprophagy isn't known, no techniques or solutions are known to be consistently successful. However, the following techniques may be effective in resolving the problem:

Treat your pet's food with something that causes his stool to taste bad. A commercial product called 4-BID™ is available through your veterinarian. The same result may be achieved by using the food additive MSG. Based on owners' reports, both of these products work in many cases, but not always. Before using either of these products, consult with your veterinarian.

Give your pet's stools a bad taste by sprinkling them directly with cayenne pepper or a commercial product such as Bitter Apple®. For this method to be effective, every stool your pet has access to must be treated so that he learns that eating stools results in something unpleasant. Otherwise, he may discriminate (using scent) which stools have been treated and which have not.

Keep your dog on a leash any time you take him outside. If you see him about to ingest a stool, interrupt him by clapping your hands, spraying a squirt bottle, or shaking a can (only for pets who aren't afraid of loud noises). Then immediately give him a toy to play with instead, and praise him for taking an interest in the toy.

Clean your yard daily to minimize your pet's opportunity to eat his stools.

If your dog eats cat feces from the litter box, install a baby-gate in front of the litter box area. Your cat shouldn't have any trouble jumping over it, but your dog likely won't even make the attempt. Or, place the litter box in a closet or room where the door can be wedged slightly open from both sides so that your cat has access but your dog doesn't. Think twice before setting up a some kind of homemade "booby trap" to stop your dog from eating cat feces from a litter box: Remember that if it frightens your dog, it's likely to frighten your cat, too.

Suggested Solutions for Pica

Pica can be a serious problem because items such as rubber bands, socks, rocks, and string can severely damage or block an animal's intestines. In some instances, the items must be surgically removed. Because pica can be potentially life-threatening, it's advisable to consult both your veterinarian and an animal behavior professional for help. Here are some other suggestions:

Make the objects your pet is eating taste unpleasant by applying cayenne pepper, Bitter Apple®, or some other aversive. (For more information on using aversives, see our tip sheets on using aversives to modify your pet's behavior).

Prevent your pet's access to these items.

If your pet is food-oriented, change his diet to a low-calorie or high-fiber diet. This may allow him to eat more food, more often, which may decrease the behavior. Check with your veterinarian before changing your pet's diet.

If you suspect that anxiety or frustration is the reason for your animal's pica habit, change the behavior by using behavior modification techniques.

If you catch your pet ingesting items and believe it is to get attention, startle your pet with a loud noise or a spray of water. If possible, avoid letting him know that the startling noise or spray came from you, and be sure to praise him when he leaves the items alone. You may want to give him something acceptable to eat or chew. Try to set aside 10–15 minutes twice a day to spend with your pet so that he doesn't need to resort to pica to get your attention.

If you think your pet's pica habit is play behavior, then keep plenty of toys around for your pet to play with. Cats especially like to play with string, rubber bands, and tinsel, and ultimately ingest them. Keep these items out of reach and provide a selection of appropriate toys. (See our tips on Cat Toys and How to Use Them and Dog Toys and How to Use Them.)


Read the entire article.

Visit Bandit's Buddies Now.

Helping Dogs In Need

Today, Volunteers with the Fayette County Humane Society rescued 7 dogs from a "breeder". Among those dogs is Gina, aJapanese Chin of unknown age. Gina will need spaying/vaccinations/dental work. Gina is going to be fostered by my husband and I, which will include socialization...she's scared to death of humans. All of the dogs have health needs. I am not one to beg for money....but if you would like to help us with the care of these dogs, even a small 5 dollar donation would mean so much. Donations can be made on the site through paypal, or you can mail a check as well. Fayette County Humane Society.

Visit Bandit's Buddies Now.

Gourmet Cat Treats

Purrfectly Natural Gourmet Treats for Cats

Cats groom …and grooming can lead to hairballs. Purrfectly Natural Treats contain high-quality proteins needed for a healthy skin and coat so less hair is swallowed. And, the wholesome blend of vegetable fibers and natural glycerin support your cat’s healthy GI tract, which helps eliminate hair that naturally accumulates in the digestive tract. Newly formulated with an improved flavor for finicky feline palates!

Directions for Daily Use:
Less than 5 pounds – 1 to 2 nuggets
5-10 pounds – 3 to 6 nuggets
11-15+ pounds – 7 to 8 nuggets

Click for more information.
Visit Bandit's Buddies Now.

4th of July Safety Tips

From www.aspca.org

As the country dons its red, white and blue to celebrate Independence Day, nothing says patriotism like a good old-fashioned barbecue with a side of fireworks. But what’s fun for people can often be a downright drag for our furry friends. The ASPCA offers some advice to help you keep your pets singing, “Oh Say Can You See,” all the way to the Fifth.

- Keep your pets on the wagon. Alcohol is potentially poisonous to pets, so place your wine, beer and spirits out of their reach.

- Avoid scraps from the grill. Any change in your pet’s diet can result in stomach upset. Plus, certain foods like onions, avocado, grapes and raisins can be toxic.

- Bugs biting? Avoid lathering your pet with any insect repellent or sunscreen not intended for the four-legged kind.

- Don’t let Spot start the fire. Keep your pet away from matches and lighter fluid, which, if ingested, can be extremely irritating to the stomach, lungs and central nervous system.

As the sun sets on the Fourth, remember that fireworks are not a dog’s best friend. Dr. Pamela Reid, Vice President, ASPCA Animal Behavior Center, recommends that you keep your dog at home, instead of taking him to your neighborhood display. “He’ll be much happier at home listening to classical music,” says Dr. Reid. “Also, be sure to keep him inside, instead of in the backyard, since even the most timid dog can leap a six-foot fence if he’s scared enough.”

If your dog suddenly shows signs of distress from outside noise, “relocate to the basement or another quiet part of the house,” suggests Dr. Reid. “Or try giving him a Kong toy stuffed with peanut butter. The persistent licking should calm his nerves.”


Visit Bandit's Buddies Now.

Promeris Contraindications

Ft. Dodge has a new flea and tick pesticide for pets out on the market. If you google it, you will read stories of folks with dogs who have had reactions. Below are the warnings for this product(Note: highlighting of key points was done by the author of this blog):

Contra-indications, warnings, etc

Do not administer to puppies under 8 weeks of age.
Do not administer to cats.
Do not administer to sick or debilitated dogs or dogs suffering from heat stress.

Avoid contact with the eyes of the dog and avoid oral ingestion by the dog.
For use only under the supervision of a veterinary surgeon.

This veterinary medicinal product is for spot-on application only. Do not administer orally or via any other route.

The veterinary medicinal product remains effective if the animal becomes wet. However, prolonged, intense exposure to water should be avoided. Dogs should be prevented from accessing streams and rivers for the 24-hour period following treatment. In cases of frequent water exposure the duration of activity may be reduced. In these cases do not treat more frequently than once a fortnight. If the dog requires shampooing, it is better to do so before applying the veterinary medicinal product.

Known side-effects of amitraz and metabolites, such as sedation, lethargy, CNS depression, hyperglycaemia, bradycardia and slow, shallow breathing may be observed in a small number of animals. Most of these signs are due to alpha-2-adreno-receptor agonist effects. Signs are usually transitory and generally resolved without treatment within 24 hours. If symptoms are severe or persist the alpha-2-adreno-receptor antagonist atipamezole hydrochloride may be used at a dose of 0.2 mg/kg bodyweight by intramuscular injection to reverse these side-effects.

Hypersalivation may occur if the animal licks the application site immediately after treatment. This is not a sign of intoxication and disappears within minutes without treatment. Correct application will minimise licking of the application site.
It is important to apply the dose to an area where the animal cannot lick it off and to make sure that animals do not lick each other following treatment.

Do not allow puppies to lick the application site of their mothers when it is still wet.

Care should be taken to ensure that the contents of the pipette or the applied dose does not come into contact with the eyes or mouth of the recipient and/or other animals.

Treatment with other products containing amitraz is not recommended whilst the dog is being treated with ProMeris Duo Spot-On for Dogs.

The application of the veterinary medicinal product may produce a local, temporary oily appearance and clumping or spiking of the hair at the application site. A dry residue may also be observed. This is normal and will generally resolve within a few days after administration, though may persist longer on rare occasions. These changes do not affect the safety or efficacy of the veterinary medicinal product.

Withdrawal period: Not applicable

Operator warnings:
Keep out of reach and sight of children. Stored pipettes must be kept in the intact foil package. This product should not be administered by children.

This product contains amitraz, which can lead to adverse neurological effects in humans and especially in children. Children should not have access to used pipettes. Used pipettes should be disposed of immediately.

Amitraz is a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MOAI); therefore, people taking MOAI-containing medication should take particular care when handling this product.
Avoid direct contact with treated animals until the application site is dry. Children should not be allowed to have contact with treated animals until the application site is dry. It is therefore strongly recommended to treat the animals during the evening and that recently treated animals are not allowed to sleep with owners, especially children.

This product may cause skin sensitisation and allergic reactions in humans. Dermal exposure to the product should therefore be avoided. The use of protective gloves while handling the product is recommended.
If ill effects are noted following exposure to the product, seek immediate medical assistance, and show the product packaging to the physician.

Wash hands thoroughly after use. In case of accidental spillage onto skin, wash off immediately with soap and water.

This product may cause mild eye irritation. If the product accidentally gets into eyes, they should be thoroughly flushed with water.

Do not smoke, drink or eat while handling the product.

Disposal:
Any unused veterinary medicinal product or waste materials derived from such veterinary medicinal products should be disposed of in accordance with local requirements.

The veterinary medicinal product should not enter watercourses, as this may be dangerous for fish and other aquatic organisms.

Carefully dispose of used pipettes immediately after use.

Read the entire article.


Click here to read about natural options.

Using Aversives to Modify Cat Behavior

www.hsus.org

We're all familiar with the impact that curiosity can have on a cat's life expectancy, but a cat's penchant for nosing around can be pretty upsetting to his caregivers as well. That's why some cat owners seek to deter their felines from doing certain things through the use of "aversives." Aversives are tools and techniques used to keep cats away from particular places or to stop them from engaging in certain behaviors.

Establishing an effective aversive stimulus to prevent various antics is often a case of trial-and-error, as individual preferences will vary with each cat. But don't forget that even after you've found the best method to discourage a cat from a particular action or place, the approach will seldom work effectively unless you offer a positive alternative that is both convenient and rewarding. Read the entire article.

Visit Bandit's Buddies Now.