A fat cat made national news in the United States this week, and he’s not a politician. Called “Tiny Tim,” this kitty is now on a medically supervised weight-loss program while humans try to find his guardian or place him in a new home in his hometown of Houston, KHOU reported.

A nice human found a 35-pound tabby cat on a street in Houston and took him to Houston’s city animal shelter in December. Volunteers at the shelter took Tim to a local animal hospital to board and get on the right track with his weight. He has to stay in a dog kennel because he won’t fit in kennels built for cats, but he has already lost more than a pound.

Meanwhile, TV stations and news sites, such as KHOU, KPRC and Houston Chronicle blogs, in Houston tried to find Tim’s guardian. The vet and shelter volunteers know that a cat can’t get this overweight living on the streets, so they’re sure Tim was living in a home with a doting human until very recently.

Given that Tim had trouble moving around because of his girth, he probably wouldn’t have survived long without human assistance anyway.

Tim’s obesity brings pet weight into the spotlight. Research in the United States shows that more than half of both pet dogs and cats are overweight. The Association for Pet Obesity Prevention released results of a survey of veterinarians that found 53 percent of pet cats and 55 percent of dogs are either overweight or obese. Similar studies back to 2007 have found about half of us are overweight, but this year’s data show that the pounds are creeping up.

Our humans are spending more money than ever to get us the best food and treats, but when we get too much of a good thing, we are at risk for health complications. For example, Tiny Tim also has arthritis, which is one of the conditions that comes along with excess weight. Others are diabetes, high blood pressure and kidney disease, according to APOP. Obese pets are likely to run up big veterinary bills in treatment for these and other conditions.

APOP says it’s important for veterinarians to tell humans when their pets are getting too weighty. Also, human pet guardians need to get familiar with the silhouette of a healthy cat or dog (no doubt, the same would apply for rodents, horses, pigs and other pets as well, but we are focusing on cats and dogs here).

Cats and dogs can’t just go on crash diets to slim down, so it’s important for humans to know some basics about healthy weight loss in their pets. Healthy weight loss in cats is about one pound a month. Dogs can usually lose about 3 – 5 pounds a month, depending on their size and current health. That’s about 3 – 5 percent of body weight. APOP has a form to fill out to calculate target weight and daily calorie allowance to achieve that weight.

My sisfur @NutmegTorby needs to cut back on treats and snacks.

We don’t see extra treats as a threat to our health – I know I don’t, and my sisfur Nutmeggy (@NutmegTorby) schemes to get more treats and snacks – so we have to rely on our humans to recognize when our eating habits are putting us at risk. APOP has a resource library for humans who want to help their cats and dogs get fit and healthy. They even have calorie per serving information for popular brands of cat and dog food.

When humans can recognize the healthy silhouette, they have a better chance of helping us avoid getting too fat and knowing when to cut back on food and treats and increase exercise. Purina has great descriptions and illustrations of body condition from too thin, through healthy, to overweight and obese for cats and dogs.

If Tiny Tim stays on his fitness program, he’ll slim down to a fit weight of about 12 pounds over the next two years. He’s making fine progress and can walk four times as far as he could when he got to the clinic, according to the Houston Chronicle. The Chronicle also reported that although his original guardian hasn’t turned up, another human has applied to adopt him.

@PepiSmartDog's fur-sib Apple

Spanx, hairspray and screaming fits are all part of the journey to become Twitter’s Next Top Model. And that’s just the humans who aren’t even in the photos. What’s involved for an anipal to ‘make it?’

This Sparklicious Fashion insight is the first of a series, documenting fur-sib Apple’s quest for modelling glory. Expect the claws to come out as Apple throws his weight around.

Speaking of weight: Apple is no skinny-mini. He tips the scales at around 25 pounds. Forget lycra, there isn’t enough of it available (my other two fur-sibs, Suki and Tahni are choking with laughter.)

Today was Apple’s first photo shoot. Yes, he is wearing MY dinner suit and wig. This series will chronicle his transformation from a cat who lays around waiting for his bowl to be filled, to a fierce mancat (hopefully with a waistline.)

Competitive fur-sibs Suki and Tahni will also be battling for the crown, so expect fur to fly as photographer Nigel BARKr and fur stylists are forced to deal with all manner of hissy-fits. Medical staff will be on hand.

When does air brushing go too far? What fool said thin is beautiful? Teeth whitening, are you kidding? Anorexia on the catwalk, is it acceptable? Third eye lid or just creepy? All these questions and more will be examined in upcoming episodes. Let the battle begin!

#Pawties and Events are where anipals and humans get together for a Twitterin’ good time. In their tweets they use an introductory hashtag (#) so everyone who wants to join in the fun can easily find them by searching Twitter for #(fill in the blank) pawty or #(event name). #Pawties and Events is where you will find out about the #Pawties taking place on Twitter and where I will point you to the official The Anipal Times #Pawty & Events Calendar. Remember to check out the calendar so that you can find the dates and times to mix and mingle with anipals. Now, let’s read about some of the #pawties and events that happened by the deadline for this article (oh, and if you don’t know how to #pawty, don’t worry I got you covered—just read this).

#BrewsBookLaunch

#BrewsBookLaunch @BZTAT and @BrewskieButt hosted a wonderful first for Twitter–an anipal book launch #pawty that occurred Wednesday 25 January 2012, 6-9PM Eastern, USA. Anipals (animals and humans alike) gathered together to help @BrewskieButt and @BZTAT celebrate Brew’s newly published book, “Where in the World is Brewskie Butt Meowing Today?” #BrewsBookLaunch was a great way to see the skills and talents of animal artist @BZTAT’s illustrations of @BrewskieButt’s adventures. “I’ve created 27 colorful drawings featuring Brew in places all around the world!”

Everyone was so excited and congratulations were plentiful. “Holy cat, everyone, my book is published,” meowed the Brew. #BrewsBookLaunch was a fun time, full of supportive friends, games, quizzes, contests and anipal antics where some great @BZTAT artwork prints were given away as #pawty prizes. One of the most unique events of the #BrewsBookLaunch #pawty was a world premier of @BrewskieButt’s official music video. “I teamed up with my musician pal Jason Farnham to create a purrfect video to go along with the book,” @BrewskieButt excitedly offered—and I have to agree. I’ve included the video here, in case you missed #BrewsBookLaunch—enjoy!

#SCPawty

#SCPawty 28 January 2012. Happy critters, big and small had a great time celebrating with @CatGodessAthena and @SadLovelyHeart at their new home for #SCPawty housewarming party. #SCPawty (also known as Spike and Cassie Pawty) was a lovely, friendly, casual affair and anipals dressed casually and had a fun, joyous time. @CatGodessAthena and @SadLovelyHeart welcomed everyone in to their new home, which was creatively and lovely designed by the couple. No detail was overlooked—the palatial and divine gourmet kitchen proved to be roomy enough for the creative catering of the Nip Club chefs. I can tell you the fried lasagna was to bark for—I sure did! I barked for seconds, thirds and well, fourths. While anipals took turns touring the new abode, some even taking a dip in the grotto-themed pool, @CatGodessAthena and @SadLovelyHeart cut a rug on the dance floor. Anipals let their inhibitions down and joined the couple, dancing up a storm to some rocking tunes—seems that everyone enjoyed @Flicka47′s melodious selections. #SCPawty was a fun, warm, not-to-be-missed affair—and it was a great opportunity to congratulate @CatGodessAthena and @SadLovelyHeart!

Upcoming #Pawties and Events Remember to see the #Pawty and Events calendar to get more info on some other wonderful events. Get ready for #DogTalk, #PetChat, #KeepFits, #NipClub, #CookinWifRabbits and #Purrs4Peace, held on the first Sunday of every month by coordinator @ConfuciusCat and weekly by other anipals (e.g. @ChloeToby) who #Purrs4Peace. Tune in to these entertaining and highly informative weekly shows where you can say “Hi!” to old friends and hopefully make new friends, too.

#FursPawty

#FursPawty Saturday 4 February 2012 from 4PM to 5 February at 12AM Eastern, USA. Who wants a good time? Well then, join #FursPawty host @KittehBoi for a meowing (or barking, or chirping, or chittering, or nose twitching, etc.) good time. “Instead of ‘come as you are’ this pawty is ‘come as you are not,’” said @KittehBoi. If you are a puppy, you could come in a horse costume, or if you are a cat you could come in a bunny costume. #FursPawty is just for fun—no charity, just be ready to come pawty your butt off! RSVP here.

#PB8's Host

#PB8 Sunday 5 February 2012, 3PM Eastern, USA. Get into your favorite football gear and come join @Eccentric123 as she hosts an online gathering of dogs, cats, birds, fish and any sort of anipal to watch the 2012 Puppy Bowl VIII together. #Pawty attendees can expect some of the traditional frolicking football-themed doggy fun and will be able share their experiences, no matter where in the world they are watching Puppy Bowl VIII, via Twitter using the #PB8 hashtag! Questions—ask @Eccentric123.

If you know of any #pawties or events that you’d like included in an upcoming #Pawties and Events article, please try to give two weeks notice and email me, mattiedog AT anipaltimes DOT com, or @MattieDog on Twitter. Include the name and date of the #pawty, and any invitation and/or blog links. Until next week, #pawty on anipals!

The Anipal Times does not endorse or support any particular #Pawty and Events fundraising endeavor and donations should be made at the donor’s discretion. Anipals should research fundraising prior to making a contribution/donation in order to make an informed decision.

i ad a kwestyun from @alfielulu an ee did arsk me

I dussent undastand why doggies attack ovver doggies ??

i noes that a frend of yors wos reesuntly attakd alfee an yoo dus be upset bowt it but aswel i fink it dus be a kwestyun wot uvvas dus fink bowt sumtimes wen they dus be owt on ther warks.

ther dus be lots of fings wot is rittun bowt doggys hoo attak uvvas an eevun attak hoomuns aswel an i fink evrrywun shud always av that fort in mind wen they dus be owt. eevun wen yoo finks yoo noes a doggy reely wel sumfing mite appun to it an it wil attak. of cors ther dus always be reezun for it. they dusnt do it for nuffing but yewsly we wudnt no wot th reezun wos til arftawuds or praps not at al.

it dus be fakt aswel that sum hoomuns trayn ther doggys to attak uvvas an that dus be dispikibul but it appuns. i noes eevun if doggys dus be on leeds they can stil be attakd so that dusnt nessrilly be th ansa niver. nor dus stayin indors cos then yoo wud miss owt on avin egsyz an runnin rownd.

wile i fink it mite be fare to say ther is no bad doggys ownly bad ownas i fink it dus be importunt we keeps owpun mind bowt it cos reely we dusnt no wot gows on in doggys minds.

i fink th ansa to yor kwestyun alfee dus be ther dusnt be no wun ansa for it but a kombinayshun of fings wot mite mayk it appun.

strokes… strokes… strokes…

Henry

If your furry family is anything like mine, they can do some mighty silly and downright dumb things sometimes. Whether by accident or one of those, “it worked out better in my mind” types of stunts, my critters have done it.

For instance, my one-eyed dog McKorkle used to run through the house, head turned back looking for his chaser but with blind side leading the way and then “SMACK!” right into a wall! (No, he never learned.) Or how little Sadie, wanting attention, began purring and “fluffing” the floor with her paws while also rubbing her head on the floor over and over. Only problem, she was standing at the top of the stairs and on one of those attempts to rub her head she overshot her head toss and tossed herself down the stairs!

One year we had the porch of our old Victorian refurbished. When the men began working on the porch floor they removed the old boards, replacing them with new wood, one section at a time. When they removed the final boards, we were left with a big hole in the floor at our door for a day or two. Leaving the house that afternoon, my Aunt Judy thought she would be able to step across the dark abyss, reaching the floor boards just past the front door. Our Siamese, D.C., decided he also wanted to go outside and insisted on using the front door. Being extremely stubborn he would not give up the pursuit so, when Judy opened the door, D.C. ran straight out…there really was that split second that you see in cartoons where he stopped midair!

With a puzzling look on his face that said, “Huh?!” he then dropped. Aunt Judy (being the tallest) jumped down the six feet to rescue the confounded cat. Being a typical Siamese, he showed his displeasure by kitty-cursing and not cooperating. D.C. made Judy chase him in that dark and dirty dungeon while yowling at the top of his lungs. (Yes, we had a small crowd at this point.) Safe and unharmed he continued telling us, for days after, that it was really our fault he fell into that filth. He probably had the other cats convinced we pushed him!

Soon after the porch incident, our state was one of several that got blasted with a blizzard that dumped 22+ inches of snow. With snowdrifts in our back yard, the depths were reaching close to 36 inches in some of our play areas. The first morning after the storm settled, my sister and I decided we were going to somehow play in the arctic tundra that was once our back yard.

Protected from the cold by her thick fur, our cat Frisky had long before shown how she loved playing in the snow. However, we thought play time in this particular snow should probably be skipped, since it was just a bit over her head. Not one to be refused, she pushed by our legs and out the back door. Before we could do anything, she jumped off the stairs and disappeared into the white. Moments later, bursting through the surface of the cold glacier, Frisky pulled herself out of the snow and to the top of her Everest. Standing proud of her impressive feat, she had conquered the cold beast!

#Pawties and Events are where anipals and humans get together for a Twitterin’ good time. In their tweets they use an introductory hashtag (#) so everyone who wants to join in the fun can easily find them by searching Twitter for #(fill in the blank) pawty or #(event name). #Pawties and Events is where you will find out about the #Pawties taking place on Twitter and where I will point you to the official The Anipal Times #Pawty & Events Calendar. Remember to check out the calendar so that you can find the dates and times to mix and mingle with anipals. Now, let’s read about some of the #pawties and events that happened by the deadline for this article (oh, and if you don’t know how to #pawty, don’t worry I got you covered—just read this).

#PawPawty

#PawPawty  Saturday 21 January to Sunday 22 January 2012, anipals happily gathered to continue the tradition of #PawPawty. Everyone donned their best James Bond-themed attire and put on a brave face to carry on, in the face of @FrugalDougal’s grandmother’s unexpected passing, the great #PawPawty cause. All of the anipals joined paws, wings, beaks, etc., to send love to @FrugalDougal and celebrate his wonderful grandmother. @FrugalDougal did not join #PawPawty as his norm; however, he did lend his name and reputation to yet another great #PawPawty. If you were unable to attend #PawPawty and would like to send your condolences, please do so by sending a kind tweet to @Frugaldougal.

Being that @FrugalDougal wanted #PawPawty to go on, every animal gathered on Twitter and made it happen. This month’s #PawPawty was to help raise awareness and funds for  Wayside Waifs in Kansas City, MO, USA, whose purpose is to place adoptable companion animals in responsible homes. Wayside Waifs has three key strategic goals: to provide temporary shelter for homeless companion animals; educating the public, and developing partnerships, collaborations and strategic alliances in order to further its mission to help animals. Wayside Waifs is the largest pet adoption center in Kansas City and places over 5,000 animals each year in their forever homes—Wayside Waifs rocks, and @FrugalDougal knows it, and wanted to start its year off right.

#PawPawty was a big spy-themed event, where anipals gathered together, acting all shag-adelic in their Bond-like attire—in their spiffy and cool outfits. Everyone who joined in the January #PawPawty fun nibbled on tasty Casino Royal 007 treats designed by @JavatheCat and @Flicka47 (with her ever-luscious Flicka’s Cookie Café menu), and served up by sly and sleek barktenders, danced to some fierce tunes, and had some fun trying their paws (or wings, or what-have-you) playing games for some spyerific prizes. All of the anipals reportedly had a good time #pawtying and boogieing down—and the #PawPawty top-notch Sekurity team was always nearby to offer a helping paw to anipals in need (or toss someone *cough cough* in jail for getting too rowdy, or pawhaps too frisky with the ladies!). Make sure to read the January #PawPawty Sekurity report once it’s posted.

Everyone who joined in the Bond-oriented #PawPawty had a terrific time, and we all #pawtied for 24-hours straight  for a wonderful cause and raised just over $1,000 for this great animal rescue. As it always is, #Pawpawty was splended and was a pawesome way for anipals to stay in contact with one another and to make new friends—and it was a great way for us to kick up our paws and enjoy ourselves! Didn’t make it? Never fear, #PawPawty, there is still time to donate to Wayside Waifs, this month’s #PawPawty charity—where your donations help transform the lives of animals just like you and me. And, don’t forget to get your great #PawPawty memorabilia (where profits go right back to help the animals), to help kick off your year the right way.

Upcoming #Pawties and Events Remember to see the #Pawty and Events calendar to get more info on some other wonderful events. Get ready for #DogTalk, #PetChat, #KeepFits, #NipClub, #CookinWifRabbits and #Purrs4Peace, held on the first Sunday of every month by coordinator @ConfuciusCat and weekly by other anipals (e.g. @ChloeToby) who #Purrs4Peace. Tune in to these entertaining and highly informative weekly shows where you can say “Hi!” to old friends and hopefully make new friends, too.

#BrewsBookLaunch

#BrewsBookLaunch Pawty Wednesday 25 January 2012, 6-9PM Eastern, USA. Anipals and humans are invited to help @BrewskieButt and @BZTAT celebrate Brew’s just-published book. “Holy cat, everyone! My book is published, I have a launch party set, and you can pre-order your book copy now!” said the Brew. So anipals, like this happening cat says, “Get ready fur some fun feline frolicking at my launch party on Twitter.” Come tweet with animal artist @BZTAT (pronounced bee-zee-tat), and see her illustrations of the Brew’s adventures in a fun picture book (order your copy here). Make sure to join in the fun!

#SCPawty

#SCPawty 28 January 2012. Everyone is invited to join @CatGodessAthena and @SadLovelyHeart at their new home to help celebrate their wonderful housewarming party, #SCPawty (also known as Spike and Cassie Pawty). The plan is to have a lovely, friendly, casual affair, so come in whatever you might like to wear, and as always your own fur is always welcome! Please contact @CatGodessAthena and @SadLovelyHeart for info and don’t forget to RSVP here.

#FursPawty

#FursPawty Saturday 4 February 2012, 4PM—5 February, 12AM Eastern, USA. Who wants a good time? Well then join #FursPawty host @KittehBoi for a meowing (or barking, or chirping, or chittering, or nose twitching, etc.) good time. “Instead of ‘come as you are’ this pawty is ‘come as you are not,’” said @KittehBoi. If you are a puppy, you could come in a horse costume, or if you are a cat you could come in a bunny costume. #FursPawty is just for fun—no charity, just be ready to come pawty your butt off! RSVP here.

If you know of any #pawties or events that you’d like included in an upcoming #Pawties and Events article, please try to give two weeks notice and email me, mattiedog AT anipaltimes DOT com, or @MattieDog on Twitter. Include the name and date of the #pawty, and any invitation and/or blog links. Until next week, #pawty on anipals!

The Anipal Times does not endorse or support any particular #Pawty and Events fundraising endeavor and donations should be made at the donor’s discretion. Anipals should research fundraising prior to making a contribution/donation in order to make an informed decision.

Florida may become the 22nd state in the United States to include family pets in protective orders in domestic violence cases. (Animal Legal and Historical Center maintains a list of states that already have such laws.)

If it is adopted, this legislation recognizes that abusers may target any member of the family, including companion animals. If adopted, it would become possible to include restraints on hurting, attempting to hurt or threatening an animal “owned, possessed, leased, kept, or held by” another family or household member. The law would give the person petitioning for protection “exclusive care, custody, or control” of any animal member of the household. Violating such a protective order would carry criminal penalties.

Florida State Senator Mike Fasano filed the bill in September. It was introduced in the Florida State Senate 10 January as Senate Bill 288, “Domestic Violence Against Family Pets.” It has passed through review by the Criminal Justice, Judiciary and Budget committees.

Senator Fasano prefers to call the bill “Horatio’s Law,” WTSP.com, DogHeirs.com and other local news media reported, after a courageous Catahoula who stepped in between his elderly human and her son to absorb the blows. Although the human Horatio so loyally protected passed away in December, Horatio now lives happily with a new person.

Although still rare, laws recognizing the role of animals in domestic violence respond to recent research that describes a strong link between abuse of humans and family pets. Based on research with women living in domestic violence, Clifton P. Flynn argued in Animals and Society in 2000, that the recognition that animals actually are members of the family may be what puts them at risk. Some abusers see the animal companion as competition. Some threaten or hurt animal companions as a means to intimidate their partners.

U.S. society is responding a bit faster to new understandings about animals and domestic violence than its law is. Some shelters now allow those fleeing abuse to bring animals or will help make arrangements for temporary housing and care for animals in the family. Lawyers.com suggests that people seeking legal help in domestic violence situations ask their attorneys to help them include pets in restraining orders in states that allow them. Part of this process will probably involve proving who owns the pet, so make sure to keep relevant documents. Some local police departments, such as police in Minneapolis, may be able to remove family to safety in local shelters immediately.

Non-profit organizations, such as Ahimsa House, in Atlanta, Georgia, also offer advice for navigating the legal system. In addition to providing advice about how to get animals included in restraining orders, Ahimsa House also organizes transportation of pets to safe places and maintains an online listing of shelters for animals threatened in domestic violence.

A shelter in Kansas City, Missouri, changed the no-pets policy in response to the act of a heroic Great Dane, who kept his human’s boyfriend from hitting her with a hammer, the Huffington Post reported. This is the first shelter in that area to open to family animals.

As numerous sources, including the Huffington Post, report, almost half of the callers looking for shelter from violence in their homes refuse it when pets are not welcome at the shelter.

Check out the list of states that allow family animals to be included in domestic violence protection orders. If yours is on the list, thank your stars. If it’s not, call your legislators to encourage them to support a new law. If the local shelter has a no-pets policy, suggest that they reconsider. If the shelter nearest your takes family animals into consideration already, please thank them from me.

#Pawties and Events are where anipals and humans get together for a Twitterin’ good time. In their tweets they use an introductory hashtag (#) so everyone who wants to join in the fun can easily find them by searching Twitter for #(fill in the blank) pawty or #(event name). #Pawties and Events is where you will find out about the #Pawties taking place on Twitter and where I will point you to the official The Anipal Times #Pawty & Events Calendar. Remember to check out the calendar so that you can find the dates and times to mix and mingle with anipals. Now, let’s read about some of the #pawties and events that happened by the deadline for this article (oh, and if you don’t know how to #pawty, don’t worry I got you covered—just read this).

#AlohaPawty

#AlohaPawty 13 January 2012. @PepiSmartDog hosted a big rocking #pawty on 13 January 2o12, from 7:00 p.m.—1:00 a.m. EST that was designed to celebrate and help @TomCatSamurai. Anipals everywhere joined in the fun and donned their most colorful Aloha-themed outfits to celebrate @TomCatSamurai, cuz he’s such a great person and friend to us anipals. Anipals grabbed their favorite girl or guy, or squeakie toy, and came to #pawty the night away. All the DJs rocked, and with a special appearance from Shibbering Cheetos (@ShibberingC), anipals came to toss their panties in the air and shake their tail feathers, or, you know, whatever. The theme of #AlohaPawty was to relax, have fun and enjoy the concept of an Aloha-relaxation event. Everyone came to enjoy some great drinks and eats, and play games to try to get a chance to own some beautiful handmade statues by @TomCatSamurai. When, like many animals, @TomCatSamurai landed on some bad times, the anipals gathered together to try to help out such an amazing friend—so it was a blessing to have so many friends show up and have a good time, and come together to #pawty at #AlohaPawty! If you weren’t able to attend this great #pawty, but if you would still like to donate some pennies or nickles, don’t worry, you still can make a difference through the #AlohaPawty donation site. Otherwise, make sure you check with @PepiSmartDog and @TomCatSamurai on how to help out and offer some assistance or just some good words to cheer Tom on—as we all know, life sometimes can offer some curves and that’s why we’re all in it together, to support and love one another!

#BlogPawty 14 January 2012. Well, one thing is for sure, anipals from all over the globe hoping to go to BlogPaws had a great time at #BlogPawty! Anipals got all prettied up and joined @BlogPaws at #BlogPawty where the #pawty began with a parade into BlogPaws Village Square. For the opening ceremonies, the Parade traversed Village Square with anipals and humans joining paws (and err, hands), sharing cock”tails” and singing and dancing throughout the town. Next up, everyone gathered in the banquet hall atrium for recognition “pawards,” and then on to the after #pawty in the atrium. #BlogPawty was a great show of what @BlogPaws attendees can expect to expereince at the “in-person” Blog Paws held in Salt Lake City, Utah, USA 21-23 June 2012! Everyone had a great time—I know I did, nomming on some great treats, like the Blog Tini, served by @PepiSmartDog, and swaying to the melodious tunes played by DJs @ParkerSKat and @CathyKeisha. #BlogPawty was a great time. Blogpaws is gonna be fun too—I’ll be there, and I know you will too, so don’t miss it!

Upcoming #Pawties and Events Remember to see the #Pawty and Events calendar to get more info on some other wonderful events. Get ready for #DogTalk, #PetChat, #KeepFits, #NipClub, #CookinWifRabbits and #Purrs4Peace, held on the first Sunday of every month by coordinator @ConfuciusCat and weekly by other anipals (e.g. @ChloeToby) who #Purrs4Peace. Tune in to these entertaining and highly informative weekly shows where you can say “Hi!” to old friends and hopefully make new friends, too.

#PawPawty

#PawPawty 21-22 January 2012 On these two days, Saturday and Sunday, of mid January 2012, make sure you come ready to #pawty and join @FrugalDougal as he hosts the Grand Daddy of all anipal #pawties–#PawPawty. As every anipal knows, #PawPawty is one of the big #pawties of the year for us crazy pawtiers, so join in the big fun–get your family and friends, and make your groomer appointments–because you know you’ll need to look all fluffy in your fur (or fins, or feathers, or whatever you have)! Gather with all the other anipals and join in the fun–everybody will be dancin’ and #pawtying and help raise awareness for a fabulous animal rescue group. So, get ready and don’t miss it—join in the fun and have some fun at this month’s big #PawPawty!

#SCPawty

#SCPawty 28 January 2012 Everyone is invited to join @CatGodessAthena and @SadLovelyHeart at their new home to help celebrate their wonderful housewarming party, #SCPawty (also known as Spike and Cassie Pawty). The plan is to have a lovely, friendly, casual affair, so come in whatever you might like to wear, and as always your own fur is always welcome!  Please contact @CatGodessAthena and @SadLovelyHeart for info and don’t forget to RSVP here.

If you know of any #pawties or events that you’d like included in an upcoming #Pawties and Events article, please try to give two weeks notice and email me, mattiedog AT anipaltimes DOT com, or @MattieDog on Twitter. Include the name and date of the #pawty, and any invitation and/or blog links. Until next week, #pawty on anipals!

The Anipal Times does not endorse or support any particular #Pawty and Events fundraising endeavor and donations should be made at the donor’s discretion. Anipals should research fundraising prior to making a contribution/donation in order to make an informed decision.

Gunther

When a cat or dog joins a family we never know how those first few days, or minutes, will work out. For example, Gracie’s first days with our family could have been better, for her at least. She had surgery for a horrible hernia, was stuck wearing the awful “lampshade” for twelve days and is today, still recuperating. While I was Gracie’s “kitty-nurse” I began to recollect the funny, strange and the “oh-my-gosh-what-did-we-do” stories that happened with our other kids’ rescues and adoptions.

I still laugh when I remember driving home with a little Seymour in my lap curled-up and purring when he suddenly jumped up and splattered, spread-eagled against the (closed) car window. He actually stuck for a few seconds! I’ve always been so thankful that the guy driving right beside us didn’t see Seymour, I couldn’t figure out how I would explain the ten-car-pile-up to the police.

Hubs probably wishes I wouldn’t tell the next story. While looking for something in a closet one evening I noticed our cat crate was missing. Both cats were front and center as was our little dog so, why the missing crate? I called Hubs and asked him, “where’s the cat carrier?” Now folks, if you’re going to go to the trouble of surprising someone shouldn’t you at least come up with a good cover story? Hubs apparently forgot that part of the plan. So his brilliant, covert answer to my question was: “Cat carrier? What cat carrier? I have no idea what carrier you’re talking about.” With it being so close to Christmas that year, it was pretty easy figuring out the surprise – our sweet boy Jack.

To meet our sweet, quiet-mannered Gunther, you would never expect this story to belong to him: A tiny, dark-orange kitten appeared under a dumpster behind Hubs’ office building one morning. Hubs called me, describing this adorable kitten knowing I would come and get him. He was right of course, so I grabbed our (now famous!) cat carrier, a can of cat food and my “mother’s determination” that we would be bringing that baby home. What I found when I arrived was a small, scared and very young kitten all by himself, not a single sign of any siblings or mother.

At first I was working through a fence, as he was on private property but when it became clear I would not succeed from my side, I decided I would just push my way past the security guard on the kitten’s side. Sure enough, the guard of the property I was now intruding on was on my heels. Luckily, I found a security guard that loved cats and offered to help. I then tried everything to get Gunther to crawl out from the dumpster but he was so terrified he wouldn’t make the final steps to my open hand. It was time to pull out my last trick — a trail of seafood flavored cat food leading into the crate.

I placed the bits of food, leaving the last few bites in the very back of the crate. After a few moments he started eating his way through the trail. Stopping at the carrier door for a nail-biting moment he finally entered. Carefully but quickly I walked over and shut the door. Now, at this point I need you to remember the cartoons with the Tasmanian Devil; imagine how he acts when he’s crated, arms and legs shooting through air-holes trying to grab and kill anything, causing the crate to bounce off the ground. Got that picture in your mind? That’s EXACTLY what happened after I shut the door on Gunther! Hubs and I looked at each other and said, “what are we getting ourselves into?”

The next morning our vet weighed Gunther, he was 13 ounces.

#Pawties and Events are where anipals and humans get together for a Twitterin’ good time. In their tweets they use an introductory hashtag (#) so everyone who wants to join in the fun can easily find them by searching Twitter for #(fill in the blank) pawty or #(event name). #Pawties and Events is where you will find out about the #Pawties taking place on Twitter and where I will point you to the official The Anipal Times #Pawty & Events Calendar. Remember to check out the calendar so that you can find the dates and times to mix and mingle with anipals. Now, let’s read about some of the #pawties and events that happened by the deadline for this article (oh, and if you don’t know how to #pawty, don’t worry I got you covered—just read this).

#SherlockPawty

#SherlockPawty  Anipals joined their pal @OllyTed, and Olly’s brother @SpencerTeddy and pal @MarshallSheldon, for the first big #pawty of 2012. Everyone gathered at @OllyTed’s place on January 6-7 to celebrate Sherlock Holmes’ birthday, which was 6 January 1854. #SherlockPawty started with @SpencerTeddy spinnin’ some Sherlock Holmes-themed tunes at Gilbert’s Pub–even the food and drink had a fun, detective theme. With @OllyTed dressed as a cake inspector, the “murder mystery” portion of #SherlockPawty got underway. Anipals, dressed in their best Sherlock Holmes disguises, joined @OllyTed and enjoyed themselves immensely while they worked to solve the mystery. The “murder mystery” had a lot of questions, clues, and twists and turns–see #SherlockPawty pictures here. “It was a ‘who dunnit,’” said @OllyTed. ”When @MarioDaCat immediately told us ‘th butler dun it,’ oh kno wos th cat owt of th bag? well th mystery unfolded… a smitten lord toff had given mata hari a priceless ruby nd then shock horror… th ruby been stolen! who cud it bee? wee serchd mutchstuff hall… wos it heer? did anywun remembah a rathah sparkey ’cherry’ in th second cupcayk? lord toff tell us he was biffed wif a shiney flat thing? was that a dented tray in th library wif spencer? what wos that on th snooker table wif watson? (aka marshall @marshallsheldon) wos it a ruby?” While Mrs. Hudson (a.k.a. @MogsBear, also the winner of the period costume contest) bustled about, the mystery was slowly solved by @BlindMaximus, @ShaynaCat and a joint entry from peanut @CapnPeanutZilla and @GromekCat, who won a little GeoGem ruby. It was a great time, and we applaud such fabulous creativity—thank you, @OllyTed!

#J4B

#J4B Wedding Pawty Festivities for #J4B pawty started on 7 January 2012 at 7 0′clock.  @BonnietheWestie, one of the most beautiful dogs on Twitter, is officially off the market as she married the suave and debonaire @JackMcWestie at Westieminster Abbey. Bonnie was glorious, and looked so divine dressed in her flowing, beautiful dress—joined by the delightful bridesmaids @Westymad and @Indra_the_Dog. Also, tossing cute little flowers here and there was Winnie, the sweet flower girl and daughter of @Keely_Bobs and @PuppyNumber7. @JackMcWestie, and his groomsmen, looked dashing in their kilts—and while nervous, beamed with pride as he watched his spectacular bride, given away by @HenryandFriends, sashay down the isle to greet him and take his paw in marriage. All of the attendees enjoyed the ceremony, swaying as they, in one unified voice, sang ‘Make Me a Channel of Your Peace’ selected to honor St. Francis of Assisi, the patron saint of animals—and post ceremony headed over to the Dogchester Hotel for a night of #pawtying and boogieing down to the melodious tunes rocked out by DJ @Dogstoyevsky. #J4B was a lovely ceremony that celebrated the union of two wonderful Westies, @BonnietheWestie and @JackMcWestie—remember to tweet your congratulations and send your good wishes!

#AlohaPawty

#AlohaPawty 13 January 2012. @PepiSmartDog wants you to join this #pawty, 13 January 2o12, from 7:00 p.m.—1:00 a.m. EST, designed to celebrate and help out @TomcatSamurai. So, don your aloha-spirited outfits, take some dance lessons, grab your favorite girl, or guy or squeakie toy and come #pawty the night away—with a special appearance from Shibbering Cheetos (@ShibberingC). More info will be forthcoming—but in the mean time, if you have any questions, make sure you ask @PepiSmartDog.

#BlogPawty 14 January 2012. Join host @BlogPaws at #BlogPawty where they will begin with a parade into BlogPaws Village Square—make sure to dress up for fun! That could mean your nicest outfit or your most fun outfit or your favorite outfit—you decide. Once you arrive, #BlogPawty invites you into the Banquet Hall where they have decorated their atrium to the max. #BlogPawy will be giving away prizes throughout the event, including two passes to BlogPaws 2012 in Salt Lake City, UT June 21—23!

If you know of any #pawties or events that you’d like included in an upcoming #Pawties and Events article, please try to give two weeks notice and email me, mattiedog AT anipaltimes DOT com, or @MattieDog on Twitter. Include the name and date of the #pawty, and any invitation and/or blog links. Until next week, #pawty on anipals!

The Anipal Times does not endorse or support any particular #Pawty and Events fundraising endeavor and donations should be made at the doner’s discretion. Anipals should research fundraising prior to making a contribution/donation in order to make an informed decision.

The New Year has already started, and many of us have made a long list of resolutions. Losing weight, finishing that project or finally get a drivers license. You don’t have any resolutions yet? Here are some ideas your cat will be thankful for.

Empty The Litter Box More Often

Just like humans like a clean toilet, cats like a clean litter box. Scooping on a daily basis is a good idea to keep the box clean. When you need to empty the litter box depends on what kind of litter you use. Non-clumping litter has to be emptied more often, because urine collects on the bottom of the box. Basically, you need to change the litter box when it is no longer usable. So follow your nose. If you smell it, your cat will too. Depending on how many cats share the litter box, you can empty the box once a week, every two weeks, or once a month. If it looks dirty, change it. We don’t like dirty bathrooms either.

If you’re not scooping or cleaning the litter box enough, it will eventually lead to inappropriate elimination.

Don't forget to make the appointment with your vet in time.

Annual Check Ups

Whether your cat is indoor or outdoor, annual check ups are a must. Outside and indoor both have their cons. Outside cats can get thick, ear mites and might be hit by vehicles, while indoor cats are more prone to becoming overweight. Cats can’t talk, and they are masters at hiding pain. The vet may find symptoms the owner would have missed. Better be safe than sorry.

Groom Your Cat More Often

Grooming is not only important to keep your cat’s hair from being tangled, but during a grooming session you can also check your cat’s body for anything unusual. Brushing is also good for the blood circulation, preventing hairballs and it makes the bond between the owner and the cat stronger, and while you’re grooming your cat, you can also check for fleas.

With short-haired cats you only need to brush once a week, using a rubber brush. Medium-haired cats need to be brushed twice a week with a plastic or normal brush. And long-haired cats need to be brushed on a daily basis with a brush to keep their coat in good condition.

More Play Time With Kitty

Da Bird is a favorite of many cats.

Not only do you create a bond with your cat during the game, your cat needs the exercise. Cats that don’t get played with much may become destructive in order to seek attention, or to have something to do.

Playing with your cat should take at least thirty minutes. You can split it in two fifteen minutes sessions: fifteen minutes in the morning and fifteen minutes in the evening (for example: before going to bed). Of course it’s no problem if it’s longer than thirty minutes, but listen to your cat: When he doesn’t want to play, he really doesn’t want to play and you should try another time.

You don’t need to buy expensive toys for your cat. You can also use paper wads, bottle caps and softballs. But the most favorite cat toy is probably the feather waggler called ‘Da Bird’. It will encourage your cat’s hunting instinct and get him to move.

Don’t Forget To Treat Your Cat For Fleas

Fleas need a warm environment and because of our central heating fleas can cause trouble even in colder places.

Cats can become allergic to fleas because the clotting-saliva that is left behind in the flea bite causes itching and scratching may lead to several skin conditions. But the flea doesn’t only use animals as their host. They may bite humans too, and this only leaves bumps on our skin.

That’s why treating your cat for fleas is a good idea, especially during the summer or when you live in a warm climate.

To control fleas, all cats in the household — indoor and outdoor — need to be treated for fleas regularly (for example: once a month during the summer, and every two months during the winter).

From our staff to your staff, and from our homes to yours, let me first wish everyone a very happy new year. Whatever faith you follow or season you choose to celebrate, 2011 ended with much joy, friendship and heartfelt gratitude for the year past. We look forward to a bright and happy 2012 shared with you all.

Here at The Anipal Times, I wanted to take a moment to thank all of our readers and those who volunteer their time to help us produce content each and every day.

I’m excited that we’ve had some new writers join our ever-dependable stable of writers in the past few months. Not only have some of our favorite anipals started writing and editing for us, but we’ve also had some humans join our ranks as well. Welcome to each of you and thank you for contributing your time and talent to our newspaper.

We also have some staff changes that we would like to ask you to celebrate with us. First, and most importantly, our publisher, @Snick_the_dog has retired from the daily role of publisher. He will remain on staff as publisher emeritus to assist with behind-the-scenes Anipal Times business. Our dear pal @Georgetheduck has stepped up to fill the role of publisher. We welcome him with open paws (wings) and are grateful for his constant attention to The Anipals Times since its early beginnings.

That said, we are still seeking an Assistant Publisher who can work with George and Snick to assure that the nitty gritty of The Anipal Times are always in check. If you have the following qualifications and would be interested in a volunteer position with us, please contact either myself or George for more information.

• Must be familiar with self-hosted WordPress (not WordPress.com), basic HTML, FTP and general proofreading
• Review articles in the HTML tab only
• Detail oriented
• Proof for typos and check layout
• Insert video(s) as needed
• Check for complete style adherence
• Schedule the article to publish
• Review published article, home page, and Facebook to ensure publishing
• Publish comics, which requires more HTML intensive processes plus FTP usage

Also, I have stepped up to fill the editor-in-chief position left vacant by @cokiethecat. Please feel free to contact me about anything related to The Anipal Times.

As always, we are so thankful to be a part of such a caring and dedicated community focused on the health and welfare of animals. We hope that you’ll visit us often and share your thoughts with us.

Happy New Year!

Brutus the Dane

Editor-in-Chief

The new year does not start in New England until Boston has had its First Night. First Night takes place on New Year’s Eve and is a festival of the arts with parades, music, dance, films, ice sculptures and, of course, fireworks. First Night Boston is the oldest and largest such event in North America. But the party doesn’t end when the fireworks are shot over the harbor at midnight. For canines like myself, who do not like crowds or the trauma of fireworks, First Day is the next best thing and just as much fun. So let me give you some insider tips on where to go and what to do.

Getting There

During off-peak hours non-service dogs are allowed to ride the T (Boston’s public transportation service). You need to be well-behaved and on a leash, but on New Year’s morning people on the subway may not even notice you’re a canine unless you put the bitey on them—which isn’t a nice way to start a new year—so act cool and rest your paws!

If your person is driving, tell them to park under the Boston Common—yes, you can park under that big park in the middle of Boston!—and the rates are some of the best in town. On weekends and holidays, parking is eleven dollars for the day—and most of the best action is happening three floors up! You can’t beat it.

What To Do

First, you’ll want to check out the ice sculptures—during our warmer winters they can melt fast, and you don’t want to miss them. Located from Copley Square to Faneuil Hall Marketplace, with the majority on the Boston Common, it’s worth the walk to see them all—but make sure you have your walking paws on ’cause you’ll need them!

For the best entertainment, you’ll want to head towards Tremont Street at the Park Street T station. Here you’ll find the best flushing flock of pigeons in the whole city—and better yet, people feed them so they stick around. If pigeons aren’t your thing, try the Public Gardens, located right next to the Boston Common just on the other side of Charles Street. During the summer months, the swan boats are found here, but on First Day it’s all about the ducks and geese. Honk in the New Year with some feathered friends and visit the famous Mrs. Mallard bronze sculpture for a quick photo-op.

Boston is full of recognizable furriends. You may see @modalthetortois or @bunnyjeancook or maybe it’s @ZackRabbit—well, you’ll have fun trying to figure out which of your furriends has been immortalized in bronze.

And how should any self-respecting anipal end such a spectacular day? Shopping of course! Head over to Faneuil Hall Marketplace where you and your person can share noms and engage in a little recreational shopping therapy. From t-shirts to Coach bags, from pewter to gemstones, Faneuil Hall Marketplace is a great place to grab a souvenir in a historic setting. Who knows, you may even recognize a furriend staring back at you in a store window!

All photos supplied by @iamDaisyDoo

Why should you care whether or not a show on Animal Planet gets renewed for another season? If that show is one that promotes animal welfare and delivers more than simple entertainment, that’s why.

In this case, it does. And thankfully, Animal Planet has renewed it for another season. And that season begins this Saturday, 7 January 2012.

My Cat From Hell host Jackson Galaxy

My Cat From Hell is hosted by Jackson Galaxy — a man whose self-proclaimed mission is “to keep cats from being euthanized, out of shelters and off the streets for reasons that are entirely preventable.”

Ten years ago, Jackson went into private practice in Boulder, Colorado, co-founding Little Big Cat, Inc., a company that focused on the “whole” cat — not just its physical health, but the connection that exists between physical and behavioral feline health. Over the years he has helped more than a thousand cats overcome behavioral issues, both in private homes and in rescue situations.

In 2011 he partnered with Animal Planet to create the show My Cat From Hell. Each episode showcases a situation where the cat-human connection is in need of serious repair if the cat is to remain as a pet. In many instances, the owner is desperate, at wits end and ready to give up on their feline companion if a solution isn’t found. Jackson steps in, working with both cat and owner to help resolve the issues (thus saving kitty from being handed over to a shelter or worse).

And given the fact that over 70% of all cats that find themselves in shelters are euthanized annually, this has the potential to save many a kitty life.

Each episode is fascinating and educational, and allows the viewer an opportunity to learn more about the human-feline bond.

Now that’s a TV show that, as a community, we can really get our paws around! Please join us in supporting this great TV content. My Cat From Hell Season 2 — with six all-new one hour episodes — begins this Saturday night at 8 PM (ET/PT).

We’ll be watching, will you?

#Pawties and Events are where anipals and humans get together for a Twitterin’ good time. In their tweets they use an introductory hashtag (#) so everyone who wants to join in the fun can easily find them by searching Twitter for #(fill in the blank) pawty or #(event name). #Pawties and Events is where you will find out about the #Pawties taking place on Twitter and where I will point you to the official The Anipal Times #Pawty & Events Calendar. Remember to check out the calendar so that you can find the dates and times to mix and mingle with anipals. Now, let’s read about some of the #pawties and events that happened by the deadline for this article (oh, and if you don’t know how to #pawty, don’t worry I got you covered—just read this).

Well *rings in the New Year* all of the anipals were busy holding #pawties in their dog- or cat-, or birdhouse, or gerbil wheel, or, you know, wherever you hang your hat. We all spent the week on Twitter wishing each other health, happiness and longevity in 2012—and I wish these things for you, too, my wonderful readers. Since we were all busy having our own brand of fun on New Year’s Eve, no major #pawties were reported to me—doesn’t mean they didn’t happen, just means I didn’t learn of them in time for this here report. So, here’s a resolution for all of you to keep in 2012—when you throw a #pawty, let me know! If you get it to me two weeks prior to the actual event, I can include all the ‘haps’ in my weekly #Pawties and Events article, resulting in more anipals joining you in your fun and frivolity. So, now let’s see what #pawty frolicking is out there on the horizon.

Upcoming #Pawties and Events Remember to see the #Pawty and Events calendar to get more info on some other wonderful events. Get ready for #DogTalk, #PetChat, #KeepFits, #NipClub, #CookinWifRabbits and #Purrs4Peace, held on the first Sunday of every month by coordinator @ConfuciusCat and weekly by other anipals (e.g. @ChloeToby) who #Purrs4Peace. Tune in to these entertaining and highly informative weekly shows where you can say “Hi!” to old friends and hopefully make new friends, too.

#SherlockPawty

#SherlockPawty Join @Ollyted for the first big #pawty of 2012! Gather at @Ollyted’s place on January 6-7 to celebrate Sherlock Holmes’ birthday. Anipals will get together to honor and pay tribute to Sherlock Holmes by celebrating his birthday with a murder mystery *evil laughter.* #SherlockPawty will have prizes for best period costume and best detective—so call your tailor and get him or her working right now. Make sure you don’t miss this great, fun adventure and don’t forget to RSVP here.

#J4B Wedding

#J4B Wedding Pawty Get your dresses and tuxes to the cleaners anipals because on 7 January 2012, we will celebrate the nuptials of @JackMcWestie and @BonnietheWestie. Nothing touches my heart more than dogs in love–so you know I’ll be there, and I hope you will too! More information is forthcoming, but until then if you have questions please ask @JackMcWestie or @BonnietheWestie.

#AlohaPawty

#AlohaPawty @PepiSmartDog wants you to join this #pawty, 13 January 2o12, from 7:00 p.m.—1:00 a.m. EST, designed to celebrate and help out @TomcatSamurai. So, don your aloha-spirited outfits, take some dance lessons, grab your favorite girl, or guy or squeakie toy and come #pawty the night away. More info will be forthcoming–but in the mean time, if you have any questions, make sure you ask @PepiSmartDog.

If you know of any #pawties or events that you’d like included in an upcoming #Pawties and Events article, please try to give two weeks notice and email me, mattiedog AT anipaltimes DOT com, or @MattieDog on Twitter. Include the name and date of the #pawty, and any invitation and/or blog links. Until next week, #pawty on anipals!

The Anipal Times does not endorse or support any particular #Pawty and Events fundraising endeavor and donations should be made at the doner’s discretion. Anipals should research fundraising prior to making a contribution/donation in order to make an informed decision.

@BrutustheDane getting a super-premium dog treat

Apparently, humans are more serious about buying the best food for their dogs than they are about buying their own food.

A survey of 1300 dog people in the U.S. state of Washington suggested a lot about how humans approach purchasing decisions related to their own eating and health care and that of their dogs. The study was published in the journal Psychology and Marketing in 2010.

Most dogs in the United States eat a commercially prepared food of some sort. A few humans cook for their dogs. Dog people who cook their own meals at home, however, are less likely to cook for their dogs. The researchers speculated that once the people get done cooking for themselves, they run out of energy to cook for their dogs too. About 25 percent of dogs eat prepared food from the grocery store almost all the time.

When their people eat more meat-based meals, dogs are much more likely to get meat in their meals as well.

About two thirds of dog people surveyed said they are “serious” or “extremely serious” about buying healthy food for themselves, while almost 80 percent of them said they were similarly serious about the food they buy for their dogs.

raw bones from a local rancher

Humans are about twice as likely to respond to price increases with changes in human food selection than they are to change the food they buy for their dogs. They are almost three times more likely to remain loyal to a brand of dog food then they are to stick to particular brands of prepared foods for themselves. Regardless of how many dogs the humans are buying for, they stick with the high-quality stuff for the dogs but might cut back for themselves.

Most humans say their weight is proportional to their height or a little bit more, but their dogs’ weight is proportional to their breed. The researchers wondered what vets would have to say about this. Given the worry about excess weight in both humans and dogs in the United States, I wouldn’t be surprised if the vets disagreed!

Resources:

Goitom Tesfom and Nancy Burch, “Do they buy for their dogs the way they buy for themselves?” Psychology and Marketing, vol 27(9): 898-912 (September 2010)

http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/mar.20364/abstract

If you squint, you can just see the tattooed “Sucker” across my forehead. It’s been there for so long and used against me so many times it’s now mostly faded away, but still works quite powerfully. I try to cover it before I go anywhere near adoptable animals but those critters still know it’s there. This mark makes me easy prey to adoptable animals. Before going into PetSmart I’ve been heard to say such useless things as, “we are not walking out of here with any living creatures”! Yeah, I need to stop saying that, backfires on me every time.

During our most recent trip to PetSmart, The Kid quickly found a kitty at the adoption center he “loved” and wanted to bring home. Mommy on the other hand examined the destruction in his cage and was imagining this kitten destroying whatever Tiger and Tomas had left standing of the structure formerly known as my house.

Not one to give up, The Kid continued trying to sell me on the little orange monkey-cat climbing his cage door as I put myself on a verbal loop of “no way”. In the meantime, a sweet, lovely white calico/tabby girl introduced herself to Mommy. I scratched her neck and ears and she would rub my hand with her forehead. She played with her toys and purred with a smile. The info on her card read: spayed, all shots, has been chipped and she was eight months old. She was being such a sweetie and something told me she was feisty too, maybe Tiger and Tomas would meet their match! Once again Mommy had been captured by a cute kitty. The “sucker” stamp got me again! Eli agreed we should adopt the sweet girl kitty when he finally realized there was NO WAY I would agree to the “furry sugar-rush with four legs”.

That evening after the adoption approval, we brought Gracie to her forever home. Time to meet the rest of the family. She took a few minutes to come out of her carrier but when she did, she made herself right at home. She was fascinated with the Christmas tree, the lights her favorite. She sits and looks at them with such happiness on her pretty face. Mommy’s lap is a favorite spot too and Lilly is being very gracious to share me, which is rather strange for a Torti.

Of course Gracie’s new brothers Seymour, Tiger and Tomas thought they were going to be tough and welcome her by smacking her around a bit. Were they wrong! Gracie pounded the boys instead. Tiger tried to attack from behind but she turned on him first, smacked him on the face and he hissed like a little girl and ran away! I’ll admit, I was kind of cheering for Gracie on the sidelines. It’s about time someone put those boys in their place — they can be such bullies. Tomas was the only one to get even a small swat on her and she smacked him back so hard he hasn’t gotten close to her again. Hubs said to me, “you sure know how to pick the girl kitties!” I’m still not sure if that was a complement or an insult.

The next morning Gracie let me pick her up for the first time and I found a large mass in her abdomen and a large scab on her side. Our vet diagnosed Gracie with a hernia, a result from her spaying procedure, which was successfully corrected surgically the next morning. When our vet examined the mystery spot, the scab fell off to expose an abscess. Our vet left this alone as they heal better left open.

Gracie is healing well, appetite growing and she’s playing, probably a little more than the doctor would like at this point. The boys are acting much nicer to her, playing instead of smacking. All is normal again in our home, well, as normal as our house will get!

Fireworks are common on New Year’s Eve, and it can be a stressful time for both humans and cats. Most cats are terrified of fireworks, and some owners don’t know how their cat is going to react yet. But there are many options you can try to make New Year’s Eve less stressful for your cat and for you.

Act Normal

If you’re staying home, act as normally as possible and try not to stress too much about the fireworks scaring your cat. See if you can distract your cat by playing with him.

If your cat is scared, do nothing. If you comfort him, or try to talk to him when he is hiding it will only make the anxiety worse. With cats it works in a totally different way: if you talk to him when he is frightened, you’re praising him. Instead, don’t say a thing. Your presence during those hours is enough, it will reassure your cat everything is alright. If you’re calm, your cat will be too.

Not all cats are scared of fireworks. Some will sleep through it like nothing is going on.

Create A Safe Place

A few days before New Year’s Eve you can create a place for your cat where he can escape to, and where he feels safe.

This can be a box under the couch or bed with the bottom faced to the room. If you do this before New Year’s Eve your cat can explore that box. You can place some treats in the box to get him interested. Place a blanket in the box, if possible one with his own scent on it.

If your cat has found a certain hiding place for the big night you can place his water and food nearby, so your cat doesn’t have to leave his hideout.

Muting Sounds

A good idea on New Year’s Eve is to keep your cat inside. Keep the windows and curtains closed and put some lights on, so the bright lights from the fireworks aren’t visible. You can also turn the television on (to a channel that doesn’t show fireworks) or you can turn the radio on softly (classical music for example), so the TV or radio will mute the sounds from the fireworks outside.

Keep Doors Closed

If there are places your cat can get stuck in while hiding, close the door to those rooms. Your cat will do anything to find a safe place, even if it’s behind the washing machine, a fridge or in the dryer.

If you are welcoming guests at the door, make sure your cat can’t escape. And don’t forget to close down every access that leads outside (such as cat flaps).

Firework CD

You can train your cat with a special firework CD, this will help him to get used to it. It’s important to start the training early, but this depends on how scared your cat is. With cats who don’t have any fear of fireworks yet, you can start two months in advance. You can start in autumn if your cat has an intense fear, or else two or three months in advance.

Start playing the CD softly on the background and do this in combination with giving treats. This way, the cat will associate the fireworks with treats. When your cat doesn’t show any fear anymore for the fireworks, you can turn the volume up higher and higher over the course of a few weeks. Don’t forget to repeat the training every year.

You can ask your vet about the CD.

Pension

If there are any cat-pensions that are far away from the city and where there won’t be any fireworks on New Year’s Eve, you can let your cat stay there for the night. That way you don’t have to worry about your cat, and your cat won’t have too much stress.

Medications

There are several medications you can use to calm down your cat. I never tried any of them, because it was never necessary. I put up the ones that are the most known. Ask your vet about those medications before using.

Valium – For cats that are extremely scared and it makes your cat drowsy. A bad thing about this is that if you use it this year, your cat will be even more frightened next year. Because the learning ability doesn’t work anymore when your cat is given Valium, this means you have to give it every year. You need a prescription from your vet to get Valium.

Bach Flowers – You can give Rescue Remedy, a compound combination of Bach flowers. Use it when the fireworks start and when you notice your cat getting scared.

Feliway – This is a substance that the human nose can’t smell containing pheromone. Cats also produce this pheromone in their glands. They use this pheromone to mark their territory, and it tells them that the marked place is safe.

Valerian – Valerian is a herb that is used to help cats who are stressed. You can buy Valerian as herb, drops or spray. If you buy drops, make sure it’s for internal use. You can use it through their food or water (but only do this is your cat likes Valerian). You can also spray Valerian on their sleeping places to calm your cat down.

Other Tips:

• Ignore fireworks from the moment that they start.

• Don’t punish your cat when he’s frightened. Ignore every sign of anxiety.

• Keep your cats inside the entire day.

• Make sure your cat is chipped, or wears a collar with his address and other information. If your cat panics, he can run off when you open the front door.

• Don’t leave a frightened cat alone.

• Every cat reacts differently.

• Keep your cat away from matches, lighter fuel, open fires and fireworks. Their fur can easily catch fire, and they might sniff and/or eat the fireworks. Fireworks are toxic if eaten.

If you’re still worried, ask your vet for more information.

I hope everyone has a great New Year’s Eve!

Resources
Kattengedragcentrum.nl

Tillman, the skateboarding dog

Tillman, the world famous skateboarding bulldog, is back and preparing to rock the 2012 Rose Parade on 2 January 2012 in Pasadena, California, as he makes another appearance with his own float, sponsored by Dick Van Patten’s Natural Balance Pet Foods.

Twitter purrsonality and The Anipal Times co-founder @CokieTheCat will be tweeting live, giving us the play-by-play from the Rose Parade. The parade is on the second this year, as it’s never held on a Sunday so it won’t disrupt church services as it takes over the whole city!

Tillman doin' his thang

Tillman will be thrilling spectators with his “mad skillz”, with fellow canine surfers, Newman and Stanley, who won an open audition to surf on the float. Newman won his surfing section, as well as Crowd Favorite, while Stanley can put many surfing humans to shame, with his 43 second wave riding records. Cowabunga!

Tillman is the Kelly Slater of canines. Let’s do the math: Slater has won 11 world titles. Tillman is five years old. Now multiply one human year for seven dog years and viola! Tillman reigns supreme. He has short legs and a low centre of balance giving him the perfect build for skateboarding and surfing. Being low doesn’t mean being slow. He is a world record holder for Fastest Skateboarding Dog. Check out this gnarly video of Tillman in action: http://youtu.be/TtRaz1cO-Ls

Newman

The float will be a world record setter, too. They’ll be surfing on an 80′ wave machine on the world’s longest and heaviest float! Guinness Book of World Records personnel will be there to confirm the length and weight. You can watch a live feed of the construction of the float here.

Stanley

Tillman’s on a special mission this holiday season to feed homeless pets and he needs you. Natural Balance is donating $1 to feed shelter and rescue pets every time someone Likes Natural Balance on Facebook until 3 January 2012, giving us all a quick and easy way to help homeless pets during the holidays. They’re already over $2,000 at the time of this writing.

Natural Balance Poster Boy!

The 12 Days Of Tillman is twelve days of fun leading up to the Rose Parade. Follow the #RosePets hashtag on Twitter to follow Tillman day to day with pics, videos, trivia and prizes. Natural Balance is also hosting a giveaway on Cokie The Cat’s blog, with 26 items like a $200 Petco gift certificate, a year’s supply of Natural Balance dog or cat food, cases of Tillman Treats and commenorative Rose Parade mugs and t-shirts.

*All photos provided courtesy of Dick Van Patten’s Natural Balance Pet Foods

#Pawties and Events are where anipals and humans get together for a Twitterin’ good time. In their tweets they use an introductory hashtag (#) so everyone who wants to join in the fun can easily find them by searching Twitter for #(fill in the blank) pawty or #(event name). #Pawties and Events is where you will find out about the #Pawties taking place on Twitter and where I point you to the official The Anipal Times #Pawty & Events Calendar. Remember to check out the calendar so that you can find the dates and times to mix and mingle with anipals. Now let’s read about some of the #pawties and events that happened by the deadline for this article (oh, and if you don’t know how to #pawty, don’t worry I got you covered just read this):

#CatMasEve

#CatMasEve  On Saturday, 24 December 2011, anipals from all over the world joined hosts @GeorgetheDuck and @SanjeetheCat to kick off #CatMasEve–every kind of animal and animal lover was welcomed with open ducky arms to this fabulous yearly event! The hosts put a lot of energy and time in to creating a magical atmosphere for all of us feathered, furry, or erstwhile animal-like, join the Christmas Eve event frivolity.

#CatMasEve definitely delivered the fun it promised–anipals gathered dressed in festive, holiday-themed outfits! @FrugalDougal helped George and Sanjee as he led the quizzes where anipals played games and answered questions for chances to win some great #pawty prizes. This year, as was the case for the prior #CatMasEve #pawties, the scrumptious noms were provided by @JavaTheCat, with @Flicka47 adding her special Cookie Cafe touch–and @FergustheDog rounded up DJs, @GeorgetheDuck herded the barktenders and @BrutustheDane wrangled up sekurity. This year’s #CatMasEve event was a great event that will most certainly be remembered throughout the years. I was there early and saw lots of my anipal buddies, dressed up in festive apparel, having a good ole’ time and howling along with the rocking DJs as they played their favorite holiday tunes. What was particularly fun this year was finding little pieces of mistletoe hung about the #pawty–you know I couldn’t pass that up!

As is tradition, this year’s #CatMasEve helped to raise awareness and funds for the Black Cat Rescue group out of Boston, MA, USA. According to the Black Cat Rescue group, black cats, when compared to cats of other colors, are only half as likely to get adopted–now, that ain’t right! This unfortunate statistic is why @Georgetheduck is helping out the Black Cat Rescue group through the #CatMasEve pawty. Operating as an all-volunteer network of foster homes in the greater Bostom area, the Black Cat Rescue group is dedicated to saving the lives of homeless black cats and kittens by providing quality foster care while actively seeking loving, permanent adoptive homes. “I want to make sure I thank everyone involved in this year’s #CatMasEve #pawty,” said @GeorgetheDuck. “So afraid I might not remember everyone, I wrote it down–thank you anipals!”

#CatMasEve pawty sure was a joyous occasion for all of us fuzzies and our friends–ensuring that no one was alone on Catmas Eve, this #pawty serves as a great way to gather together, online, and share some hugs and eggnog. Many Black Cat Rescue animals will be helped out through the #CatMasEve pawty–as it raised a little over $750 and had too numerous of tweets to count. But, never fret, if you were unable to attend the #pawty because you were busy with your own holiday festivities, there is still time to check out Black Cat Rescue and make a donation if you are able; and if not, ‘fawget about it,’ you can always send some happy thoughts and good wishes to the wonderful people, volunteers, and kitties at this fabulous rescue group!

Upcoming #Pawties and Events Remember to see the #Pawty and Events calendar to get more info on some other wonderful events. Get ready for #DogTalk, #PetChat, #KeepFits, #NipClub, #CookinWifRabbits and #Purrs4Peace, held on the first Sunday of every month by coordinator @ConfuciusCat and weekly by other anipals (e.g. @ChloeToby) who #Purrs4Peace. Tune in to these entertaining and highly informative weekly shows where you can say “Hi” to old friends and hopefully make new friends, too.

#SherlockPawty

#SherlockPawty  Join @Ollyted for the first big #pawty of 2012! Gather at @Ollyted’s place on Jan 6th to 7th to celebrate Sherlock Holmes’ birthday! Anipals will get together to honor and pay tribute to Sherlock Holmes by celebrating his birthday with a murder mystery *evil laughter*. #SherlockPawty will have prizes for best period costume and best detective–so call your tailor and get him or her working right now. Make sure you don’t miss this great, fun adventure and don’t forget to RSVP here.

#AlohaPawty

#AlohaPawty @PepiSmartDog wants you to join this #pawty, 13 January 2o12 from 7 pm to 1 am ET, that is designed to celebrate and help out @TomcatSamurai. So don your aloha-spirited outfits, take some dance lessons, grab your favorite girl, or guy, or squeakie toy and come #pawty the night away. More info will be forthcoming–but in the mean time, if you have any questions, make sure you ask @PepiSmartDog.

#J4B Wedding

#J4B Wedding Pawty Get your dresses and tuxes to the cleaners anipals because on 7 January 2012 we will celebrate the nuptials of @JackMcWestie and @BonnietheWestie.  Nothing touches my heart more than dogs in love–so you know I’ll be there, and I hope you will too! More information is forthcoming, but until then if you have questions please ask @JackMcWestie or @BonnietheWestie.

If you know of any #pawties or events that you’d like included in an upcoming #Pawties and Events article, please try to give two weeks notice and email me, mattiedog AT anipaltimes DOT com, or @MattieDog on Twitter, include the name and date of the #pawty, and any invite and/or blog links. Until next week, #pawty on anipals!

The Anipal Times does not endorse or support any particular #Pawty and Events fundraising endeavor and donations should be made at the donee’s discretion. Anipals should research fundraising prior to making a contribution/donation in order to make an informed decision.

Allie and Faraday on the mantle with the menorahs.

Anipals love any occasion to throw a party, and December is FULL of holidays. We have the Winter Solstice, Christmas, Hannukah, Kwanzaa and New Year’s Eve. Some years we have even more holidays in this last month of the year.

On Twitter, we have the SantaPaws Drive for toys for shelter pets, lots of pawties and Secret Santa exchanges. We exchange cards, sometimes cards that our humans make with their own hands! @PuppyaGuineaPig and his pig family compete for the title of Christmas mouse.

The holidays are a time for giving, eating, dressing up and spending time with friends and families. We have special traditions and tell stories about what we did in past years that remind us how much we love our pals and families.

Holiday Decorating

Brutus the Dane's ornament on his family's Christmas tree.

Lots of anipals have their own ornaments on the Christmas tree. @BrutustheDane and his dog family members all have their own ornament and a stocking as well. @MaggieTKat and @ParkerSKat’s human mom collects cat ornaments. She’s especially partial to red cat ornaments but has a hard time finding torties. This anipal family honors members who have gone on to the Rainbow Bridge with stockings as well.

MaggieTKat's brofur Rudy is remembered with a special ornament.

@Petiethecat’s family has a Christmas tree with lots of ornaments on it that remind them of stories of Petie’s enthusiasm for Christmases past. “So last ornament on tree is always associated wif me and it is a teddy bear,” Petie said.

One year Petie’s mom and dad decorated the tree and put presents under it. They came back later and found Petie under the tree sleeping on his presents.

The most memorable story for Petie’s mom, however, happened one year when she went to Ontario after putting up the tree.

“[They] put all pressies under tree including mine,” Petie said, “when they get back whole house from top to bottom covered in catnip–and all my gifts were open in the middle of the living room–mama cleaning catnip for years.”

In addition to gifts under the Christmas tree, a lot of pals have a stocking that their humans fill with presents for them.

@BorisKitty said, “We did hang our stockings by da ‘fire’ it just a fake fireplace but it haz greens n lites so we gets a lil holiday decoratins.” Boris’s holidays this year involve a little bit of sacrifice of tradition because his family has foster kitties living with them this year. Usually, Boris said, they also have two Christmas trees and a Lego train. To keep all the kitties safe this year, the family stuck to stockings.

A lot of pals dress up for the holidays, and not just in our Twitter avatars, either. @JessPals and his brofurs and sisfurs wear tinsel on their Christmas Day walk. “All we doggies wot go to the woods have tinsel around ur necks fur the walkies,” he said.

Holiday Treats

Other kitties and doggies get special food treats. @AYankeeCat said they get a quail on Christmas morning. @primitivedog gets steak and sometimes salmon. Boris and his foster “monsters” will also have special food treats for Christmas and New Year’s. Boris will have a can of salmon and the foster kitties will have chicken (they don’t LIKE salmon!).

@NikePurrfectCat gets to share the humans’ dinner if it is food that’s safe for kitties to eat. @DaneRay’s Chase eats “people food” on the holidays, but although he’s a big Great Dane, he never eats more than he needs.

@primitivedog’s mom makes sure the dogs and cats wait until Christmas Day to open the presents. Then the dogs and cats, “tear up paper and boxez. And sleepz in front of fireplace.” Even the humans sleep with them sometimes.

We Wish You a Merry….

@NikePurrfectCat celebrates the most holidays of any anipal I talked to this year. She helps her mom observe the Winter Solstice, “For solstice if mum says her prayers outside I watch. If inside I may sit nearby and listen.”

Nike and her family have Christmas traditions, too. “I have my own holiday stocking and I get to open my presents on Xmas morning w mum&daddee.”

This family also celebrates Hannukah. On the second day of Hannukah Nike said, “Tonite I got [a] wooden toy that spun and I chased it under the grandfather clock!!!”

Whatever holiday anipals celebrate, you can be sure we’ll have a creative take on it.  Like @ConfuciusCat, who has his own special version of “The Twelve Days of Christmas.” Confucius’s lyrics bring the song home for almost all of us including “……five strands of string, four paper birds, three french fries, two strokes of love and a toy fish in a big dish.”

#Pawties and Events are where anipals and humans get together for a Twitterin’ good time. In their tweets they use an introductory hashtag (#) so everyone who wants to join in the fun can easily find them by searching Twitter for #(fill in the blank) pawty or #(event name). #Pawties and Events is where you will find out about the #Pawties taking place on Twitter and where I point you to the official The Anipal Times #Pawty & Events Calendar. Remember to check out the calendar so that you can find the dates and times to mix and mingle with anipals. Now let’s read about some oUff the #pawties and events that happened by the deadline for this article (oh, and if you don’t know how to #pawty, don’t worry I got you covered just read this):

#WCLWP

#WCLWP Anipals joined @PumpkinPuddy to celebrate the Winter Carnival at the Lake With Petie (@PetieTheCat–for those of you who don’t know, Petie has been having some health issues and these gatherings are a way to share some good wishes and joy with him)–and boy, what a fun weekend-long #pawty it was. The well-honed skills of the #Nipclub chefs opened the Friday night gathering with a buffet full of tasty and delightful noms. After the #pawty-goers got their tummies full of goodies they all gathered for fun and friendship on moonlight horse-drawn sleigh rides. Anipals donned their parkas and gathered together for some night time caroling, ice skating, snowshoeing, snowmobile rides, ice fishing, some fun snowball fights, and, well–smooching! The moonlight can cast a magical spell you know.

On Saturday (also known as Caturday) all the animals gathered to pick up where they left off, getting in some cross country skiing and maybe even some skijoring! After a good day of fun, the pals all took a little snooze and then gather back up together, later in the evening for a nice, formal dinner. Anipals were on their best behavior pulling out chairs for the ladies and some curtseying could also be seen–I curtsied myself, and while it was breezy, it was fun! #WCLWP was a jam-packed, fabulous time filled with all of the joyous things us animals need to let our fur down and have a great time–and cheer on the continued health and happiness of @PetieTheCat. Everyone wanted to pass along how thankful they were to @PumpkinPuddy for helping to create a wonderful, joyous time to celebrate a great friend. And, make sure you send Petie your best, give him a shout out and send him a tweet, at @PetieTheCat–he’d love it!

Upcoming #Pawties and Events Remember to see the #Pawty and Events calendar to get more info on some other wonderful events. Get ready for #DogTalk, #PetChat, #KeepFits, #NipClub, #CookinWifRabbits and #Purrs4Peace, held on the first Sunday of every month by coordinator @ConfuciusCat and weekly by other anipals (e.g. @ChloeToby) who #Purrs4Peace. Tune in to these entertaining and highly informative weekly shows where you can say “Hi” to old friends and hopefully make new friends, too.

#CatmasEve

#CatMasEve Pawty On Saturday, 24 December 2011, you are invited to join hosts @GeorgetheDuck and @SanjeetheCat at this wonderful yearly event! This year’s #CatMasEvePawty is expected to be like the others–just fabulous, and also help Black Cat Rescue. So, get your holiday sweaters out and come ready to #pawty at this cool event! @GeorgetheDuck and @SanjeetheCat are in the midst of putting together more information–RSVP here and contact George or Sanjee for more info!

#SantaPawsDrive Anipals, it’s that time of the year where we gather and give thanks for our family, friends and even strangers–we should all be thankful because we are blessed little animals reading the news on the internet. There are other, less fortunate animals that need our help. Keep an eye on the #SantaPaws website, and in particular their Events site so that you can participate in helping animals all over the world during this holiday season–also, the founders of #SantaPaws want to encourage you to get involved locally, find a shelter, rescue or just a neighborhood animal that needs some help and pitch in!

#SherlockPawty

#SherlockPawty  Join @Ollyted for the first big #pawty of 2012! Gather at @Ollyted’s place on Jan 6th to 7th to celebrate Sherlock Holmes’ birthday! Anipals will get together to honor and pay tribute to Sherlock Holmes by celebrating his birthday with a murder mystery *evil laughter*.  #SherlockPawty will have prizes for best period costume and best detective–so call your tailor and get him or her working right now.  Make sure you don’t miss this great, fun adventure and don’t forget to RSVP here.

If you know of any #pawties or events that you’d like included in an upcoming #Pawties and Events article, please try to give two weeks notice and email me, mattiedog AT anipaltimes DOT com, or @MattieDog on Twitter, include the name and date of the #pawty, and any invite and/or blog links. Until next week, #pawty on anipals!

The Anipal Times does not endorse or support any particular #Pawty and Events fundraising endeavor and donations should be made at the donee’s discretion. Anipals should research fundraising prior to making a contribution/donation in order to make an informed decision.

Fukushima survivor, just arrived at ARK

Japan’s triple disaster has now been underway since 11 March 2011. Many animal rescue groups have come and gone; some have received huge dollar amounts of donations, but disbanded anyway, after quickly running out of money.

Inside Fukushima’s 20km no-go zone, Founder of Animal Refuge Kansai (ARK), Elizabeth Oliver says, “Things have not improved and rumours abound about the fate of the animals in or around the 20k zone. We have been told there is a plan to round up roaming cattle and kill them before the winter sets in.”

Fukushima cattle in enclosures

In line with this comment, metal cattle pens have been erected and herds of cattle have been lured into them. There are some claims that the cattle pens are to stop roaming cattle from destroying things. But the towns are ghost towns, completely uninhabited, so there is nothing to destroy and no humans to injure.

Many abandoned pets, who survived the tsunami and were abandoned on the streets of Fukushima, are now incarcerated in overcrowded makeshift animal shelters.

Fukushima survivors arriving at ARK

Elizabeth continues, “Meanwhile with the passing of time, now nearly nine months after the earthquake, many shelters, both private and government run, are facing the pinch, financially and lacking volunteer help. Animals kept in small cages for this length of time are showing severe signs of stress. ARK was asked to take in more animals from a government-run shelter in Fukushima to relieve pressure on the staff there.”

Eleven of these dogs arrived at ARK just days ago. They had each survived the tsunami, yet found themselves abandoned in a ghost town, starving and terrified. I’m unclear how long each dog was wandering the deserted streets, but one by one they were captured and taken to makeshift Fukushima animal ‘hokenshos’ (holding facilities).

Fukushima survivor, arriving at ARK

ARK is ready to welcome as many disaster survivor pets as the hokenshos are willing to let the organization have. These eleven dogs had been in the hokensho for some time, but showed remarkable endurance to survive, given what they had already been through before being captured wandering through Fukushima. Normally dogs and cats incarcerated in hokensho’s are gassed after seven days, but the city made special allowances for  animal disaster survivors, giving them more time in case owners came forward.

Elizabeth has discovered some of the dogs are microchipped, but their families have either been killed or simply cannot take them due to emotional trauma. ARK will nurture these deserving dogs back to health; not just their bodies, but their minds too.

Remarkably, Elizabeth says, “They are overly friendly!” With all they have endured, their hearts are still so big they still have room to love people! Each one of these dogs will eventually be eligible for adoption and ready to meet their own new “Forever Family.”

Inside Fukushima's no-go zone: pony in need of urgent medical assistance

ARK is currently on stand-by to rescue a Fukushima pony who has crippled hooves, due to nine months of hoof growth and no trimming. This poor pony must be in terrible pain, but ARK cannot help him until the owner gives permission. This is part of the ongoing frustration involved with Fukushima animal rescue.

During the nine months since the disaster struck Fukushima, tens of thousands of abandoned pets and farm animals have died of starvation due to the Japanese government’s ban on all animal rescue since 22 April 2011. There is also a growing number of feral cats and dogs being produced by the surviving animals.

Fukushima steer found wandering with it's jammed in metal barrel (photographer removed barrel after photo)

On 6 December 2011, the government of Fukushima and the Ministry of Environment announced that Japanese groups would finally have permission to enter the zone to rescue pet animals. The joy turned to despair when the rules and regulations were made public. The following includes comments by Elizabeth Oliver in parentheses:

“The area will be open from 5—27 December, between 9:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. (difficult within this time since most animals only come out at night!) Only pets can be rescued and only those at the request of an owner; i.e., owner has to send permission in writing (I hereby grant permission for X group to go and rescue my dog X. Animals without owners are not mentioned, so what do we do if we find a stray animal that needs rescue? This is a grey area.)

Fukushima cat rescued by ARK

“All the following details to be supplied at the time of registration:
Organization’s name, address, phone numbers, copy of NPO registration
Details of your shelter; area size, facilities, number of kennels, staff, etc.
Names, addresses, phone numbers of individuals involved in rescue
Car registration, make, licence number, etc.
What are you going to do in the zone? rescue, feeding, etc.
What day and time are you going?
Where are you going in the zone?
Details of animals you are going to rescue; type, breed, size, sex, colour, weight, all details of animals to be rescued to be sent to the prefecture before rescue
All documents to be sent in between 6—20 December
Once approval granted you must rescue within ONE WEEK! Failure to do so means you have to start the application all over again.
There are only two places you can enter the zone, one in the north and one in the south, you must enter and leave by the same place; i.e., if you enter from the south, you cannot leave by the north.
Other conditions to be observed:
No smoking (a dose of radiation doesn’t matter)
You must pick up all your rubbish and take it home with you, including animal food from the ground.
And finally you must sign to say you will obey all these rules.
All documentation must be handed into the Prefecture personally or sent by post; fax is not allowed.”

Founder of ARK, Elizabeth Oliver inside Fukushima's no-go zone, with 2 dogs about to be rescued by ARK

A good example of the difficulty of this situation is the child’s pony mentioned earlier in this article. It urgently needs help, but until its owner is found and agrees, ARK’s vets are unable to help it, even though the pony is in severe pain with life-threatening problems. To rescue Fukushima pets, the government is demanding forms be filled in and mailed to their offices before approval can be granted. And then rescuers only get one week to act, before having to redo all the steps. Meanwhile, the animals suffer and those not crippled move between many locations, making capturing them all the more difficult.

Animal Refuge Kansai (ARK) has been rescuing  animals in Japan for over 20 years. After the Kobe earthquake in 1996, ARK housed individual rescued pets for over ten years! Elizabeth says “We expect the Fukushima disaster to be the same. We are in this for the long haul.”

If you would like to donate to Animal Refuge Kansai, please click here.

i ad emale from @iamdaisydoo wot did say

Dear Henry, could you answer a question in your Anipal Times column?

 I am a shy hound. At the dog park I flop on my back because I don’t want the other dogs to think I’m vicious. My people are embarrassed that I don’t just jump in and play.

How do I get more comfortable going to the park so my people will be proud of me playing with my canine furriends?

Thanks, Daisy

 deer daysy

beein shy can be verry ard to deel wiv daysy an i dus undastand ow uvva doggys mite fink yoo dus be vishus. but ferst remba that by layin down on yor bak yoo dus be sayin to th uvva doggys that yoo dus be frendly.

i fink ther dus be lots wot yor peepuls can be dooin to elp yoo be mor konfidunt bowt playin wiv uvva doggys owtside an of cors they shudnt be embrassd cos yoo dus be shy.

dus ther be nuvva doggy hoo yoo dus alreddy be frends wiv an play wiv. if so then praps it dus be gud ideeya yoo gow to th park wiv that wun. yoo can play toogevva then uvva doggys wud see an wud joyn in aswel.

if ther dusnt be speshul frend then nekt time yoo gow owt wiv yor peepuls they shud see wich doggy dus be frendly an then gow wiv yoo to say ello. yor peepuls cud tork wiv yoo an stay clows to yoo wen th uvva doggy coms to say ello. praps aswel yor peepuls cud be frends wiv th uvva owna an yoo cud al meet up agane. that dus be wun way to bild up frendship wiv nuvva doggy.

then eech time wen yoo dus meet up it wil bild yor konfiduns abit an so th nekt time it dusnt be so dorntin for yoo. nuvva fing wot yoo cud do it to preetend yoo dusnt be shy. th doggys at th park dusnt no yoo is shy so wen yoo sees wun comin to say ello tayk sum deep breffs an stand tal an wagg yor tayl … an praps yor peepuls wil giv yoo treet for beein gud gerl.

th uvva doggys wil fink yoo is beein frendly an eevun if yoo dusnt gow runnin wiv them yoo av taykd th ferst step to lern ow to wivowt beein shy. i noes ther dus aswel be books wot can elp if yor peepuls dus reed them but praps thees uvva fings wil be a gud start ferst.

strokes … strokes … strokes …

Henry

The tree is up, the stockings are hung, our house is decorated with Christmas cheer and somewhere in the distance I hear the pop of a starter’s gun and — THEY’RE OFF!! Tiger, Tomas, Seymour and Ripley head for the tree while Sadie parks on the garland-covered banister. Buy those extra tubes of super glue folks, ’tis the season for Christmas cat-tastrophes.

My first recollections of Christmas cat-tastrophes begin when I was growing up in an old Victorian-style house. My family and I learned many cat/Christmas rules the first year living there and I have lived by them ever since. That house had rather tall ceilings so of course we had to get a tree to complement those ceilings. It was a monster, a small child could get lost in that tree, encompassing one third of our living room.

One evening we came home from shopping, the house dark and the living room not looking quite right. After turning on a lamp we stood looking at our beautiful, massive tree sprawled out on the floor, felled by furry lumberjacks. Caught extremely red-handed, um, red-pawed, we found Frisky and D.C. at the scene of the crime playing IN the tree. So, Rule #1: Anchor Giant Christmas Trees to Wall!

That same Christmas we came home another evening to find that our furry darlings had raided their Christmas stockings to open gifts a little early. One of those gifts happened to be a very large box of catnip, so we came home to some very stoned cats. (It was the 70s!) They were on the floor just plastered, hazily rolling in a bed of dried greens. I swore they both had a hangover the next day. That night Rule #2 was created: Leave Catnip Gifts Packed Away in Closet!! Preferably a locked closet if you’ve got one.

On another Christmas, years later, Hubs and I brought home a live tree. All of the kitties and our dog McKorkle gathered around to watch, realizing the tree meant Santa Paws and new toys! All had an excited, happy expression except our newest family member, Ripley. Our seven-month-old kitten stood in front of that tree with a crazed look on his face. We barely got out of the way before Ripley dove into the tree, ran up the trunk, circling round and round until he came out at the very top — our white, furry Christmas Angel. That night’s trip through wild kingdom was not his only expedition. Even after leaving the tree undecorated for a week, so Ripley could “get bored” (that was Hubs’ idea), he continued to play monkey games, decorations and all. The following year he started up the tree but turned around after climbing halfway. I guess he no longer felt the excitement for an evergreen adventure.

That brings me to our youngest; when Tiger and Tomas joined our family last year I knew immediately these two would raise the bar on the Christmas disaster. If only I could get them to lower it back down…  Simply pulling ornaments from the tree is too boring for Tiger; he dives into the middle and tears his way out, nabbing decorations as he goes. Both boys will grab strands of lights and run — the contest being which one can get the most footage off the tree. In a stealth swipe Tiger once liberated seven ornaments from the upper section of the tree — his personal best.

I hope the Christmas capers of my furry kids have you recollecting some of your kitties’ cat-tastrophes, at least the funny ones. Watch out for the holiday hairballs!

Happy Holidays Everyone!!

Vanessa, Lilly, Jack, Ripley, Gunther, Sadie, Seymour, Tiger, Tomas & (woof!) Lucy

At the holidays we get toys and nip and rawhides and all kinds of cool stuff from our humans, but what can we give them in return?

I’d like to buy gifts for my human in one of the many anipal-run shops. We anipals and our people are a pretty creative bunch, and we have a number of artists and crafters among us. @Pumpkinpuddy, who writes Adventures of a Suburban Kitty, has created a shopping guide that helps me find anipal shops. Pumpkin’s post, ”Shop Anipals,” will help you find anipal shops on Etsy, Zazzle and CafePress.

My human, like a lot of humans, likes to wear clothes, so that is one thing I recommend that we could give our humans: clothes that remind them how important it is to love animals.

I like all the stuff our anipal humans make, and I especially like it when the stuff features us, and so does my human. I thought about getting her one of the cool shirts that @BorisKitty has in both his Zazzle and CafePress stores, but she already has one. Sigh.

I’m going to try shopping for gear from Best Friends Animal Society Store. Best Friends sells some useful stuff for cat and dog health, but my human would really like the t-shirts, hats and sweatshirts with the Best Friends logo on the front.

Whether they are dressed or not, humans seem to enjoy reading. This summer my humans read a new mystery by Miranda James about a librarian and some magic kitties. James has a new book coming out soon called File M for Murder and I would get this one for her, but it won’t be coming out until January. Rats!

She already has Why Cats Paint, by Heather Busch and Burton Silver ($12.91 on Amazon.com), so I could get her a copy of Dancing with Cats by the same author. The book is out of print and available through Amazon for anywhere from $3.41 for a used paperback or $154.10 for a vintage hardcover.

This summer, she fell in love with a book about knitting dogs and BOUGHT it! (Yeah, right, like she had the time or patience to knit.)  Knit Your Own Dog, by Sally Muir and Joanna Osbourne ($7.47 on Amazon), has patterns for 25 breeds of dog and lovely pictures that are probably as close as we’ll ever get to having a knitted dog at our house. Perhaps I will give her a copy of Best in Show, a similar book by Joanna Osbourne, about knitting cats that sells for about $15. I saw several other animal pattern books that might be nice gift choices for your human.

The Animal Rescue Site puts some of the profits it earns into food and care for rescued pets. This site carries clothes, jewelry, handbags, kitchen and home decor and stuff for the car. Maybe riding in the car wouldn’t be so bad if we had some pawprint decals in the window. (They have two different decals for $4.95 each.) I’m pretty sure my human would like the purple dish towels with pawprints on them, too ($9.95). And the money for the towels alone would buy 14 bowls of food for rescued pets. I know how much my human loves to help pets in need, so I’m going to buy her a Sterling silver cuff bracelet with pretty flowers on it costs $314.95 and gets more than 300 bowls of food to the rescued pets! (Where did she leave her credit card?)

Shirt from Dog is Good

Those of you who are dogs or have humans who love dogs as well as cats should check out Dog is Good for holiday shopping for your humans. All the clothes, water bottles and other gear have sayings about how great dogs are. Maybe I will get her this thermal hoodie with a dog drawing. It costs $36.99 plus shipping. It’s too cold now for her to be wearing tank tops and T-shirts, but Dog is Good has those items too.

Those of you who are cats, or prefer cats, might prefer shopping at Meow for your humans. This store has all kinds of t-shirts, sweatshirts, nightshirts, home and office accessories, yard decorations, and a lot of other stuff, including a kitty plushy with an honest-to-goodness heater in it. I like the nightshirt that says “My cat kneads me” because we DO knead our human, all of us do, even the Garden Kitties.

We could buy our humans some really neat presents for their Christmas stockings (most of them like chocolate or coffee, and The Animal Rescue Site carries both!) and to put under the Christmas tree. We could get up to EIGHT presents for them for Hannukah or just one big gift for the last day of Kwanzaa.

But mostly, as my best friend @Katieboocat says, “Humans are frail and fragile. They need LOVE, and lots of it.”

Angel Tree

Throughout the holiday season there are a number of ways to help people who need a little support—you can donate food and clothes, make meals and even have fun with giving trees where you select a child’s hand-written note identifying what gift he or she would love to receive. My family loves the giving tree approach; shopping for others knowing that our little contribution will make someone’s holiday special just warms our hearts. It’s a good feeling. Well, now there is a way to bring that special feeling to animals—that’s right, an “Animal Giving Tree!”

Endor & Treats

“The Angel Trees are decorated with paper ornaments featuring photos and information about dogs and cats waiting for forever homes, along with a wish list of supplies, toys and treats needed to care for them. Animal lovers select a specific dog or cat from the tree and shop for items on the wish list, or if they like they can make a cash donation that will benefit the shelter,” added Deb. To find a Best Friends Pet Care in your area, click here. Don’t have a Best Friends Pet Care close by? No worries—anyone can support the Angel Tree campaign helping shelter animals by calling Best Friends Pet Care’s central office at 1.888.FOR.PETS. The Angel Tree program runs through 2 January 2012, with deliveries made to the shelters throughout the holiday season. There is still time to get involved and help the animals.

Elijah & His Toy

“I have personally witnessed how the Angel Tree campaign made a big difference,” said Deb. “A couple of years ago, in our Norwalk, Connecticut store, a client came in to drop off her dog for boarding on the Tuesday before Thanksgiving. While she was waiting to check in, she picked a card off the Angel Tree featuring a beautiful yellow lab (like her own dog). She made a donation to cover the items on his wish list and then went off on her holiday trip. On Saturday, she called us asking if the dog was still available for adoption. She said that she couldn’t stop thinking about him—despite the holiday—and wanted to adopt him! So we called the rescue and asked if they could bring the adoption candidate over to our facility on Sunday afternoon when she was returning to pick up the family pet. Sure enough, she took home two dogs, instead of one—and, bless her heart, she left her donation for the rescue to use for the other pets in their care.”

Hazel Waiting for Santa

#Pawties and Events are where anipals and humans get together for a Twitterin’ good time. In their tweets they use an introductory hashtag (#) so everyone who wants to join in the fun can easily find them by searching Twitter for #(fill in the blank) pawty or #(event name). #Pawties and Events is where you will find out about the #Pawties taking place on Twitter and where I point you to the official The Anipal Times #Pawty & Events Calendar. Remember to check out the calendar so that you can find the dates and times to mix and mingle with anipals. Now let’s read about some oUff the #pawties and events that happened by the deadline for this article (oh, and if you don’t know how to #pawty, don’t worry I got you covered just read this):

#PawPawty

#PawPawty  #PawPawty, the big #pawty that every animal from every continent gathers to mix and mingle and have fun at, kicked-off this month’s festivities. @FrugalDougal and his merry elves welcomed anipals during the weekend of 10-11 December to #pawty together and help rejoice and ring in good cheer–and raise their paws to help acknowledge all the good that @SantaPawsDrive, this month’s recipient of all the #PawPawty good deeds, does for animals during this special time of the year. The December #PawPawty was a big holiday-themed event, and anipals dutifully joined in the fun and came to the #pawty decked out in their most festive and glittery outfits. #PawPawty’s Santa Paws Drive is a yearly event coordinated by @FrugalDougal, @YourDailyCute, @TheKittenCrew, @NipandBonesLLC and @CosmoHavanese–and this year focused on helping to raise awareness and funds for shelters and rescues that help special needs and less adoptable pets. FIV+ cats, senior pets, retired greyhounds, black dogs and cats, ferals–”These are sweet animals that have been dealt a trickier card in life,” said @FrugalDougal, “and they deserve all the love and attention as any other pet–maybe even more so!”

Anipals who joined the December #PawPawty nommed on some tasty treats served up from some bodacious barktenders, shook their groove things to some melodious tunes, played games for some fabulous prizes and had a good time socializing and hanging out together. “We are now in our third year, @SantaPawsDrive is the first ‘virtual toy drive’ for pets! All donations made to @SantaPawsDrive will be divided up to help the animals in six shelters across the world,” said @FrugalDougal. “Plus, all donations made during #PawPawty were matched by Greenies (@GREENIESBrand), up to $1,000!” Everyone who joined the holiday-themed #PawPawty had a fabulous time, and #pawtied 24 hours straight (make sure to read the December #PawPawty Sekurity report once it’s posted), for a great cause. #Pawpawty is a pawesome way for anipals to meet and greet, say hi to pals we haven’t tweeted with in a while, and make new friends; and of course, to enjoy ourselves! Didn’t make it, never fear #PawPawty there is still time to donate to the @SantaPawsDrive and help them change the lives of some great animals; and you can get some great #PawPawty memorabilia (where profits go right back to help the animals) for this holiday season.

Upcoming #Pawties and Events Remember to see the #Pawty and Events calendar to get more info on some other wonderful events. Get ready for #DogTalk, #PetChat, #KeepFits, #NipClub, #CookinWifRabbits and #Purrs4Peace, held on the first Sunday of every month by coordinator @ConfuciusCat and weekly by other anipals (e.g. @ChloeToby) who #Purrs4Peace. Tune in to these entertaining and highly informative weekly shows where you can say “Hi” to old friends and hopefully make new friends, too.

#WCLWP

#WCLWP Hey pals, @PumpkinPuddy wants everyone to know that there will be a Winter Carnival at the Lake With Petie! It starts Friday 16 December in the evening and goes until after breakfast on Sunday 18 December. Come to #WCLWP with plans to join friends, have good eats and shake your booty. All kinds of activities planned, like cross-country skiing, skating on the lake, snow ball fights, snow-shoeing, sleigh rides, snow or ice sculpting, snowmobiling. RSVP here so that the pals at #NipClub, who are catering #WCLWP know how much food to make!

#CatmasEve

#CatMasEve Pawty On Saturday, 24 December 2011, you are invited to join hosts @GeorgetheDuck and @SanjeetheCat at this wonderful yearly event! This year’s #CatMasEvePawty is expected to be like the others–just fabulous, and also help Black Cat Rescue. So, get your holiday sweaters out and come ready to #pawty at this cool event! @GeorgetheDuck and @SanjeetheCat are in the midst of putting together more information–RSVP here and contact George or Sanjee for more info!

#SantaPawsDrive Anipals, it’s that time of the year where we gather and give thanks for our family, friends and even strangers–we should all be thankful because we are blessed little animals reading the news on the internet. There are other, less fortunate animals that need our help. Keep an eye on the #SantaPaws website, and in particular their Events site so that you can participate in helping animals all over the world during this holiday season–also, the founders of #SantaPaws want to encourage you to get involved locally, find a shelter, rescue or just a neighborhood animal that needs some help and pitch in!

If you know of any #pawties or events that you’d like included in an upcoming #Pawties and Events article, please try to give two weeks notice and email me, mattiedog AT anipaltimes DOT com, or @MattieDog on Twitter, include the name and date of the #pawty, and any invite and/or blog links. Until next week, #pawty on anipals!

The Anipal Times does not endorse or support any particular #Pawty and Events fundraising endeavor and donations should be made at the donee’s discretion. Anipals should research fundraising prior to making a contribution/donation in order to make an informed decision.

i did av messidge from @alfielulu bowt sumfing wot can appun to us al …

Henry wat dus I do about the new Web cam she as put in the kitshun (Ma bedroom)? I dus love er lotts but I dussent want er seein everyfin!

@aflielulu

deer alfee

ther dusnt be no dowt yoo dus luv yor mum lots an er dus luv yoo lots aswel. ow dus i no this …  cos er dus want to woch yoo al th time to mayk shor yoo dus be sayf an wel. this dus be oveeyus ansa but we av to konsida uvva fings aswel.

wun poynt of vew dus be that beein spyd on wiv camras dus be alrite if yoo dusnt av nuffing to hyd an uvva poynt of vew dus be that it dus be invayshun of privassy. i fink wot dus be importunt eer dus be to get th balans rite bowt it.

i shor yoo dusnt av nuffing to hyd alfee. wel not a lot ennyway. an i dus be eekwully shor that yor mum dusnt be egspektin to see yoo beein norty. wot er dus be dooin is chekkin to mayk shor yoo is sayf. unegspektid fings can appun to yoo if yoo dus be by yorself an if er can see yoo then er can akt promply if sumfing dus be rong.

for egsampl yoo mite put yor ed sumware it wud get stuk an then be distressd til er dus com bak agane. if yor mum sees it then er can com bak kwik to elp yoo. yoo did say to me pryvutly that camra dus av nite vishun aswel. persunly i fink that dus be abit egstreem cos if yor mum dus be sleepin then er carnt see yoo ennyway cos er eys dus be shut. i wunda if praps it dusnt av of swich so it jus keep gowin al th time.

iver way i reely fink ther dusnt be nuffing for yoo to wurry bowt alfee … arfta al yoo dus now be th starr of yor own reeality sho.

strokes … strokes … strokes …

from Henry

Recently Winston, of @PushUpsNPaws, in Colorado, USA, asked me to visit The Colorado Therapeutic Riding Center (CTRC) and share what I learn with my readers. The CTRC is accredited by the leader in therapeutic riding: PATH Intl. Premier Center Accreditation; and has been operating at the highest level of excellence since 1980, offering distinguished equine assisted therapeutic riding to children and adults with various disabilities. The CTRC is one of the largest therapeutic riding center in the US and provides services to over 700 riders through their various programs by maintaining a dynamic and diverse team of well-trained horses and volunteers.

Visiting the Office

I see Winston waiting for me, seated next to the big wooden CTRC sign. “Welcome to the Colorado Therapeutic Riding Center, Mattie,” Winston joyfully offers. “My plan is to take you on a short tour and then have Choice, one of the horses, finish the tour of the facility. Usually,” said Winston, “there are no dogs–but we got special permission and everyone is glad that you are here visiting! So happy that you found your way to the grounds. As you know, the CTRC is just outside Longmont and well, is a super special place–it’s the oldest and largest therapeutic riding center in Colorado. I’ve been visiting here for a while with my Mom, who volunteers her time in various ways, mainly helping to train the horses.”

CTRC Overview

The CTRC has four core programs: Therapeutic Riding, Hippotherapy, All Abilities Integrated Summer Camp and the Mini Trooper project. Each program is special and unique–read more about these incredible programs by clicking on the links provided, as well as some of othe other suplementary programs.

According to the CTRC, horse riding is good for everyone, and therapeautic riding is particularly beneficial for individuals with physical, cognitive and or emotional challenges as the riders relationship and interaction with the movement of the horse stimulates a rider’s muscle, brain and social activity.

While there are a number of individuals that visit the CTRC in order to participate in therapeutic riding, an additional 1000+ individuals are reached through the very special Mini Trooper outreach program. The Mini Trooper program is comprised of miniature horse and outreach volunteers who contribute their time and energy with visitors as well as participate in off-sites with the special needs populations who benefit from the human-animal bond.

Overall, in 2010 the Center provided and astounding 15,500 service hours and nearly 40,000 volunteer hours of service. “It’s a hopping, happy place,” said Winston. As we walk around the grounds it’s clear to see that the volunteers are happy to be here and spread their joy and hope with both the riders and the horses.

Rockin' Horses

“Mattie, let me get you started on the tour of the CTRC. Because Choice, the horse that will show you around the riding areas, is too big to fit in the office and tackroom area. I’ll show you those areas,” said Winston as he grabbed my paw and pulled me over to an area in the office where a variety of helmets where stacked against one of the walls. “This is where all the people who visit the CTRC, the riders, select their helmets. Each rider is assigned a helmet and must wear it in class and anytime they are around a horse–gots to protect da noggins you know,” said Winston as he selected a little helmet and plopped it on my head, pulling it snug around my chin. “Before each riding session begins the instructors select the helmets for the riders, based on the riders physical size, comfort, you know those things that we take for granted but that are pretty important to a good, quality ride. Also,” added Winston as he swept his arms wide, leaning toward an open area, “there is also a waiting area for family members and friends to watch the riders and a nice enjoyable spot for any children to play in. There are all kinds of fun toys, books, videos–and my friends da rocking horses, you know,” said Winston, “for practice riding.” Winston walks me over to the cute rocking horses and we climb up on them and bounce a little bit.

Helmet Time

After we finish with our practice riding, Winston walks me around the office and introduces me to some of the great people that help out at the CTRC. I meet some wonderful, dedicated volunteers–you can as well, just check them out here. As we meet and greet some of the volunteers Winston tells me about the Paint the Pony fundraising board. ”Paint the Pony is the annual fundraiser for the CTRC and is intended to raise much needed funds for the various programs and promote awareness of therapeutic riding and the Center,” said Winston as he climbed up on a chair and continued. ”Volunteers, riders, their friends and family, and anyone really, is invited to tell their story about how the CTRC therapeutic riding programs have made a difference in their life–write letters, send emails, create a personalized online fundraising page. People read these contributions and become motivated to help through volunteering and contributions–they become a Paint the Pony Posse member and help pay it forward, they help keep the therapeutic riding programs going!” The CTRC is a 501(c)(3) and all donations are 100% tax deductible. Every cent directly supports the gallant riders, the exceptionally well-trained therapy horses, and the premier programs of the Center. Looking through the Paint the Pony letters I spot Winston’s Mom contribution that she created, the words are just lovely–check it out! By the way, people can make donations besides money. The CTRC welcomes supplies and will take in extra special horses (creating a win-win for both the horses and the riders)–contact the CTRC to learn more.

Tack Room

The Tack Room

Winston and I say our goodbyes to the people in the office and head out to the tack room. The tack room area has it’s own smell–and as a dog, I like it, very horsey. ”Each horse has their own cubby with their own equipment,” said Winston as he walks me through the area, pointing out all the little cubicles and special knick knacks neatly stacked in rows. ”Each horse has their own halter, grooming tools and English and Western saddle pads,” Winston adds as he takes his big paw and pats one of the stored saddles.  “Sometimes,” said Winston, “riders will create these lovely hand-drawn pictures or cards that express how much they love their horse, and then they post them up in their horses special area in the tack room.” I walk over to get a closer look at one of the little cards. Their words of endearment are so kind and loving. Winston sees how taken aback I am by this and, as he pats my shoulder, says, “Mattie, my Mom gets so much enjoyment by reading these cards too. She gushes ‘oh, how thoughtful and cute,’ each time she finds a new one posted.” Looking around the tack room I see a lot of equipment and am curious how the CTRC obtains it.  “This,” said Winston as he nods his head toward the items in the tack room, “all of the tack for the horses–it’s all donated by kind and caring individuals. There are English and Western saddles that can be used depending on the riders ability; and, each horse is ‘fitted’ for saddles several times a year. It’s kinda like when our Moms go shopping for shoes,” laughs Winston, “you know, gots to make sure the saddle is comfortable for each horse for each special occasion.”
“Well Mattie,” said Winston, “this is where I leave you. I have to get back to the office and my friend Choice, the therapy horse that my Mom works with will show you around. He is mostly used for Hippotherapy.” I walk over to Choice and he bends his head down to say ‘hello’ to me, which is really a gentle warm snort that he blows out of his nostrils. I stand there, nice and calm and take in Choice’s scent, and he takes in mine–and after our brief greeting Choice lays down on the ground and lets me get on his back, then returns back his standing position and we both get ready to see the grounds. “Choice likes you,” says Winston, “he’ll show you more about what he does here at CTRC and finish taking you around the grounds.” Choice turns to head to the open area, and with a gentle gait starts out through the CTRC grounds.

Choice, a Special CTRC Horse

Choice

I enjoy my ride with Choice. He settles in to a very smooth, rhythmic trot and I feel very connected to him, like a warm, friendly hand-in-hand walk. Choice takes me by the barn where each horse has their own stall with a run for a little extra space and some exercise room. As we walk by we see the CTRC volunteers helping to clean out the stalls and runs. The CTRC has ‘barn buddies’ (volunteers) that help keep clean the horse’s stalls, and provide the horses their meals, some special grooming and treats. Currently, there are approximately 25 horses on the CTRC property–and while a majority of them are involved in the various programs either directly or through training, there are others that enjoy their days simply grazing and enjoying themselves as the CTRC takes care of their ‘retired’ program horses. Choice and I continue making our way through the CTRC grounds and stop to look at the hay barn, where the horses nibbles are kept. It takes roughly $2,500 a year to feed and take care of one of the CTRC therapy horses–this is why the support of their volunteers and contributors is so helpful and much needed. The cost of the hay is a small price to pay when you consider that a therapeutic horse is worth twice his or her weight in gold to a special needs rider. We continue our tour and Choice takes me in to the grooming area where we see many of the horses getting brushed and saddled before they head out to help with the various CTRC classes.

Hippotherapy

Hippotherapy Rider

Choice and I watch the horses as they are led out to their various program areas–we settle in to watch the ones that make their way to the Hippotherapy area. Choice is a Hippotherapy  trained horse and is typically in the classes helping with the riders.  Hippotherapy fosters improved trunk mobility and strength which in turn affects overall limb function of the rider. A horse’s natural three-dimension movement (lateral bend, flexion/extension and axle rotation) mimics a typical human gait creating gentle rhythmic movements that aides in improving overall balance, strength, muscle control and tone, motor development and coordination of the rider–it actively engages a rider who might otherwise not be able to experience these sensations on their own.  The CTRC Hippotherapy lessons are offered once a week for 30 minutes and they consist of a rider’s preparation before mounting, their balance and cognitive work on on a horse, and depending on the individual therapy plan, transitions into functional activity after mounting. For more about the CTRC Hippotherapy program please visit their website by clicking here.

Therapeutic Riding

Therapeutic Riding

Choice and I make our way over to the outdoor therapeutic riding arena–it’s all clean, with a sandy/gravelly ground for the horses. All of the riders in this area are gently settled on their horse, and securely holding the reins while sitting proudly in their saddles. The horses, beautifully lined up, are helping the riders learn horsemanship–the art of riding a horse, and this activity stimulates the physical, mental and emotional growth of a rider. The riders and the horses form a partnership, where the horse acts as more of the lead and watches over the rider. During therapeutic riding the riders gain a sense of freedom and independence, experience accomplishments, interact socially and learn new skills in a pleasurable environment. As with Hippotherapy, the horses movement simulates a human’s natural gait–helping to improve a riders overall strength and balance; and helps to create emotional connections between the riders and the horses. As I look around the therapeutic riding arena I can see that the horses sense the need for them to be gentle with those riders who have never in their lives experienced the freedom and joy of having independent movement–and they are taking extra special care with these riders.

All-Season Experience

Indoor Riding Arena

Summer Camp

Choice and I wander into the indoor riding arena where the CTRC classes are taught during the cold, snowy winter months. Choice takes me from one side of the large, expansive building to the other–it’s voluminous and as I “woof, woof, woof” I can hear the echo of my bark throughout the arena. What’s nice about the CTRC’s indoor riding arena is that it’s large enough for both the Hippotherapy and the therapeutic riding classes to be held when its too cold to ride outside. The CTRC runs three sessions each year: spring, summer and fall. In addition to the standard seasonal sessions the CTRC holds an “All Ability” Summer Camp for children of all ages and abilities. The CTRC’s “All Abilities” Summer Camp allows for riders, mostly children, with and without disabilities to enhance their riding skills and learn more about horses in a fun, safe and supportive environment. According to Winston, the Summer Camp is a lively time for the CTRC, with riders, horses and volunteers whooping it up; and the Center creates an opportunity for everyone to participate–to learn more about the Summer Camp session click here.

Mini Troopers

Carmella

Walking around the indoor arena I notice a little tiny pony, so sweet and gentle. Choice walks me over to this little horse and Winston, who had walked down from the CTRC office space, watches as I look in to the little pony’s eyes and rub her little face. ”This here,” said Winston as he warmly leans up against the little pony, “is my little friend, Carmella.” Carmella snuggles me with her little horsey nose, and then gently gets up and walks around the arena for some exercise. ”Carmella is a miniature horse, Mattie,” said Winston, “and she participates in the CTRC’s Mini Trooper Program.” The CTRC’s Mini Troopers horses are the backbone of the Center’s community outreach, meeting and greeting people and playing a big role in helping with the well-being of the special needs populations throughout the region. “Carmella,” said Winston, “gets to go to all kinds of places the other horses can’t go to because they are generally too big to visit the people who can’t come to the Center.” Carmella is a registered member of the Delta Society’s Pet Partners program and she gets to go to assisted care facilities, nursing homes, community groups. Carmella, and the Mini Trooper program, serves a much-needed role in the continuation of the pivotal, and often life-altering, human animal bonding.

Clinical Research

From 2007-2009 the CTRC and Children’s Hospital in Denver conducted a pilot project that studied the effects of children with autism spectrum disorders participating in therapeutic horse riding. Researchers, project participants and everyone involved in the pilot was so excited when the results showed that the children showed significant improvements in the children’s levels of irritability, lethargy, clinically standard symptomatic behavior and hyperactivity–as well as improvements in levels of expressive language, motor coordination and motor planning of the children involved in the program. Because of the results of this pilot program the research team was awarded a four-year grant through the National Institutes of Nursing Research of the National Institutes of Health. The new session of this project started in March of 2011. For more information on this project please click here.

A Nice Visit

CTRC

As Winston, Choice and I make our way back to the office, I stop and take a look around the CTRC grounds and consider all of the good that they and the horses do for children. It is amazing when a need and a good mission combine–it’s the little magic that can change the world. I am honored to have been invited to visit the CTRC; and on behalf of The Anipal Times (@AnipalTimes) I would like to thank Winston, of @PushUpsNPaws, for sharing the CTRC with me–as well as Choice, who graciously showed me around the facility. I hope you take some time to read more about the CTRC and spread the word about their Paint the Pony program where donations of all sizes, big and small, can make a world of difference.

Remember to contact me, @MattieDog, with your ideas for The Anipal Times articles! You can email me at: mattiedog AT anipaltimes DOT com or tweet me at: @MattieDog on Twitter.

"Entanglements" by P.R. Mason"Entanglements" by P.R. Mason

I got an email from CC’s mom that she changed the cover of her ebook, “Entanglements”. I think the new cover ROCKS! It features the firey redheaded heroine who stands out against the goth supernatural background. If I already hadn’t read the book, I would pick it up based on the cover alone!

So, run right out and pick this up, then join #readpawty Dec 12 at 8 pm EST for a discussion. P.R. Mason will be there, and I know it will be a fantastic way to learn about vampires, worm holes, how to write books as a profession and many other topics. “Entanglements” can be purchased as an ebook through Amazon or Barnes and Noble for a mere $0.99. I think it is worth much more than that, but I need to direct you to my review for more discussion.

#Pawties and Events are where anipals and humans get together for a Twitterin’ good time. In their tweets they use an introductory hashtag (#) so everyone who wants to join in the fun can easily find them by searching Twitter for #(fill in the blank) pawty or #(event name). #Pawties and Events is where you will find out about the #Pawties taking place on Twitter and where I point you to the official The Anipal Times #Pawty & Events Calendar. Remember to check out the calendar so that you can find the dates and times to mix and mingle with anipals. Now let’s read about some oUff the #pawties and events that happened by the deadline for this article (oh, and if you don’t know how to #pawty, don’t worry I got you covered just read this):

#JinglePawsRock

#JinglePawsRock Anipals happily kicked-off this year’s holiday season at #JinglePawsRock.  Revelers joined hosts @BloodHoundNDots (Annie a three-year-old bloodhound who lives with her furry Dachshund family Sauci, Bucky and Opie) and Furever Dachshund Rescue (@4EverDoxiRescue) on 3-4 December 2011 to mix and mingle and #pawty with their pals. When I swung by #JinglePawsRock the place was rocking and great music filled the air. I saw many of the#pawty regulars (@JinJinDoggy, @GeorgetheDuck, @HollieCatRocks, @PuppyaGuineaPig, @MizzBassie and @KingTuttiFruiti to name a few that I hung out with) and met a some new faces too (@hoodwintheGpig, @shelly338, @LOLDoxie and @PudgeButters). Many of the #pawty-goers where dressed to impress in their holiday attire with mistletoe hung, sneakily, from many of the anipals hats–a good #pawty *smooch* was readily available, anipals are such a loving bunch!

Everyone gathered to have a good time to attend #JinglePawsRock in order to spend quality times with friends, while supporting @4EverDoxiRescue and helping to raise awareness and funds for this great organization.  @4EverDoxiRescue is housed in Woonsocket, RI, USA, and is a non-profit that relies on a 100% of volunteer base, located throughout the US, who work in collaboration to rescue Dachshunds. Furever Dachshund Rescue focuses on rescuing, rehabilitating and re-homing abandoned, neglected and stray dachshunds. And because we all love our ‘Weiner Clauses’ (I wish I could claim that one as my own, but I saw it in a tweet during the #pawty!), we turned out in droves to support @BloodHoundNDots and @4EverDoxiRescue and #JinglePawsRock; and helped to raise nearly $1,000 for this great group of animal rescuers. Also, there was a super special prize available during #JinglePawsRock–if you donated $10 or more to Furever Dachshund Rescue during the #JinglePawsRock pawty you were entered to win a special prize, a lovely rug created by Stephen Huneck Gallery at Dog Mountain, donated by @WineCountryDog and @BloodhoundNdots, with the winner being notified Tuesday, 6 December 2011. So, today’s the day–stay tuned and contact @BloodHoundNDots to see if you were the lucky winner–truly all the Dachshunds are winners, thanks to #JinglePawsRock!

Upcoming #Pawties and Events Remember to see the #Pawty and Events calendar to get more info on some other wonderful events. Get ready for #DogTalk, #PetChat, #KeepFits, #NipClub, #CookinWifRabbits and #Purrs4Peace, held on the first Sunday of every month by coordinator @ConfuciusCat and weekly by other anipals (e.g. @ChloeToby) who #Purrs4Peace. Tune in to these entertaining and highly informative weekly shows where you can say “Hi” to old friends and hopefully make new friends, too.

#PawPawty

#PawPawty Saturday and Sunday 10-11 December 2011. Join @FrugalDougal and help him as he host his Grand Daddy #pawty–#PawPawty. This is one of the big #pawties of the year anipals, so join in the big fun–get your family and friends, and make your beauty appointments–because you know you’ll want to be fancy in your fur (or fins, or feathers, or whatever you have)! Gather with all the other anipals and join in the fun–everybody Wang Chung Tonight and help raise awareness for six worthy animal rescue groups through SantaPawsDrive. Don’t miss it–come on out and have some fun at this month’s big #PawPawty!

#WCLWP

#WCLWP Hey pals, @PumpkinPuddy wants everyone to know that there will be a Winter Carnival at the Lake With Petie! It starts Friday 16 December in the evening and goes until after breakfast on Sunday 18 December. Come to #WCLWP with plans to join friends, have good eats and shake your booty. All kinds of activities planned, like cross-country skiing, skating on the lake, snow ball fights, snow-shoeing, sleigh rides, snow or ice sculpting, snowmobiling. RSVP here so that the pals at #NipClub, who are catering #WCLWP know how much food to make!

#CatmasEve!

#CatMasEve Pawty On Saturday, 24 December 2011, you are invited to join hosts @GeorgetheDuck and @SanjeetheCat at this wonderful yearly event! This year’s #CatMasEvePawty is expected to be like the others–just fabulous, and also help Black Cat Rescue. So, get your holiday sweaters out and come ready to #pawty at this cool event! @GeorgetheDuck and @SanjeetheCat are in the midst of putting together more information–RSVP here and contact George or Sanjee for more info!

#SantaPawsDrive Anipals, it’s that time of the year where we gather and give thanks for our family, friends and even strangers–we should all be thankful because we are blessed little animals reading the news on the internet. There are other, less fortunate animals that need our help. Keep an eye on the #SantaPaws website, and in particular their Events site so that you can participate in helping animals all over the world during this holiday season–also, the founders of #SantaPaws want to encourage you to get involved locally, find a shelter, rescue or just a neighborhood animal that needs some help and pitch in!

If you know of any #pawties or events that you’d like included in an upcoming #Pawties and Events article, please try to give two weeks notice and email me, mattiedog AT anipaltimes DOT com, or @MattieDog on Twitter, include the name and date of the #pawty, and any invite and/or blog links. Until next week, #pawty on anipals!

The Anipal Times does not endorse or support any particular #Pawty and Events fundraising endeavor and donations should be made at the donee’s discretion. Anipals should research fundraising prior to making a contribution/donation in order to make an informed decision.

When I first met my soon-to-be husband I began to worry. Would he be able to accept the entire family? Did he realize he would be joining a family where the critters have always outnumbered the humans at least four to one? Would he love that the Christmas mantel would be overcrowded with stockings for Frisky, Freeway, Ellery, McKorkle and Jack? Would he enjoy buying Christmas gifts for our furry children? Most importantly, would the man I was going to spend the rest of my life with accept the fact that most of our pattering little feet would be attached to four legs??!!

Stories such as that will be one of the many I would like to share with you in this column. I have been assembling these stories from my pet-parenting of over 20 cats, two dogs and many little creatures that would make some people scream and run the opposite direction. I’ll also be sharing stories from the other critters I have met along my path that have touched my heart. Plus, I’ll share some of the more interesting tales from my more than ten years as a vet assistant at a veterinary hospital.

I’ve been remembering so many funny and sweet things my critters have done over the years; I had a hard time deciding where to begin. I then decided I should begin with the little one who brought me to this opportunity of writing for The Anipal Times, my precious Lilly.

Many of you already know Lilly, or @Lilly_the_Torti. Her real personality is very much like my own. We are both feisty, stubborn and don’t you dare back us into a corner! Hubs often says Lilly is my cat equivalent. Recently, Lilly and I celebrated our second anniversary together; two years since the day she followed my Hubs and dog Lucy home from a walk and jumped straight into my heart.

On that evening, Hubs and Lucy were walking through our neighborhood and what Hubs thought was a black cat walked right up to them. She was very friendly and not the slightest bit afraid to approach a strange man and a hyper border collie/aussie shepherd dog who think cats are her sheep. She charmed the man and teased the dog and proceeded to follow them home.

Outside our garage, Hubs called me to come out and “see something.”  I walked out and the kitty immediately glued herself to me, rubbing my legs, weaving in and out until I almost fell. We moved into the light and it was then I was able to see the kitty was a beautiful torti cat. When I sat down on our flower bed wall she jumped into my lap, purring. At that moment I looked into her eyes and I saw what she was saying, “I need you.” I looked up to Hubs and said, “We’re keeping her.” He just smiled, his mission complete. I knew immediately what her name should be; Lilly, after Lily Potter in the Harry Potter books. She was a perfect Lilly.

The next morning came Lilly’s first visit to our vet. We told her we suspected she had been “dumped” in our neighborhood like so many other cats at that time. Our vet agreed and estimated she had probably been outside for about a week. She also estimated Lilly’s age to be about eleven months. After tests and blood work Lilly finally got to come home with a healthy gold star. Yeah!! Now we only had to introduce her to our other cats. Funny how Hubs and the Kid disappeared when that needed to be done!

Well, that is another story altogether and I’ll leave it for another day. I do hope you enjoyed my first furry recollection with you. Careful of the hairballs!

@Barbi_Twins

How Their Love for Animals Began

Shane, Sia & Kitty

“Our real passion was always about directly helping animals,” said Sia, “so we quickly made a come-back as animal activists. After all, our dream as little girls was to be veterinarians. However, a demand for us to model came at an early age, which made our goals detour a bit.” According to their website, the Barbi Twins were born on April 2nd in San Diego California, USA; and the twins lived separately for most of their childhood.  They were tomboys that aspired to become nuns and veterinarians. They had a family background firmly set in the celebrity and entertainment industry as Dusty Springfield was their godmother and their great aunts were the Andrew Sisters; and their mother was a beauty pageant winner. “So,” said Shane, “as you can see, it was no great surprise when we began a modeling career at the age of seven beginning with posing in a Sears mail-order catalog and moved in to top publications and fashion magazines such as Seventeen, Mademoiselle, Teen and so on–we were lucky that our career, in the long term, allowed us to work with and rescue animals.”

“We actually started rescuing animals when we were very young,” said Sia, “breaking out some of the mice and hamsters that were caged up in our school.” Shane motioned for me to join them in their sun room, where I climbed up on a nice chase lounge. “See Mattie, we viewed the cages at school as a jail for animals and because of this we would sneak and free them into the wild where we felt they should normally live. You could most definitely say we were obsessed with animals and wanted desperately to help all animals in any which way we could!” The sisters believe that we all should research the collection, treatment and disposal of lab animals.

Educated Activists

The Barbi Twins first encounter with an expert animal activist was Chris DeRose of Last Chance for Animals in 1989, who helped guide them to useful animal activism. Mr. DeRose, a well-known actor and animal activist, showed the Barbi Twins troubling animal videos that relayed the cruelty done to animals in labs and medical research facilities; and was done for big business. For example, said Shane, “Animal experimentation was disguised as necessary medical research when in fact it is proven to be mostly medical fraud repeated unnecessarily for research grants and insurance reasons (Last Chance for Animals: animal research/vivisection).” The Barbi Twins also became aware of the way animals were abused on factory farms and in circuses, and even showed how some animals are skinned alive for their fur. “It was eye opening to watch these videos of how animals are really treated. Since then, we do our own research and work for all animals,” said the twins.

Anti Puppy Mill Rally

And work they have! Not only have the Barbi Twins joined efforts with CNN’s Jane Valez Mitchell and Mel Torme’s daughter Robin to spread the word about anti puppy mills, they have also worked on transformational animal protection legislature, from the crush bill (H.R. 5566: Animal Crush Video Prohibition Act of 2010), to partnering with Dr. Jenny Conrad (the famous big cat DVM) on the anti-declaw bill, and teamed up with Willie Nelson to promote the anti-horse slaughter bill; and have made numerous public appearances in Huffington Post, Politico, FOX, Extra TV, People, USA Today, etc. in order to spread the word about their work and the documentary Saving America’s Horses. Also, the Barbi Twins work to expand everyone’s knowledge of puppy mills, promoting the “adopt don’t shop” movement; and work tirelessly to bring awareness to anti-fur and stop the seal slaughters.  The Barbi Twins also created a great vegan book, “The Eco Anti-Diet,” that teaches people how to wean themselves from animal products; and all proceeds go to the animal charity Sea Shepherd.

According to the Barbi Twins the real eye opener to get them fully entrenched in helping animals was Katrina. “We were happy that during this rough time most people, when presented with the problems of animals needing help, really did want to help. But we were shocked that a few animal welfare organizations seemed to take advantage of people’s good intentions to help Katrina animals. Some animal welfare organizations took in enormous donations that never really went to the Katrina victims, leaving many animals to die. We had learned about the real stats of rescue…10 million dogs and cats were killed in the United States last year, while animal organizations receive $10 million in donations and tax money. That is more money being donated, yet the USA has more killing than any other country,” said the twins.

Shane, Husband Ken Wahl & Friends

Doing the Right Things

The Barbi Twins’ main goal has become to help make animals rescue more than a trend, they want to make it a brand that is mainstream America. “We know that rescuing an animal during these hard times would make people feel good that they are contributing and connecting to a problem all of us have contributed to. Over population of dogs and cats is a problem that we have created, so we have the responsibility to not kill the extra dogs and cats, but instead adopt. We also need to spay and neuter to get to the root of the problem of pet over population, and stop breeding until we have found a home for every single animal.”

“As for wild animals, we feel that animals should live naturally in their own environment the way nature intended. There are always solutions that we can bargain with to keep that formula going. One example is eco tourism which allows wild animals to stay in their habitat and create a business model where sanctuary workers earn money to preserve the species, rather than hunt or poach.”  “We want people to be very careful of specieism, like racism, as it basically allows a person to obsess on a specific species, saying certain ones have the right to live over another one. We feel that when an animal is called “feral”, we are manipulating words to say the animal is not native to the land–which is ridiculous when their is no timeline to dictate that law. We are the biggest non natives that invaded our land!” The Barbi Twins encourage us to be global and all encompassing in our thinking when we ponder ways to help animals. Shane and Sia’s motto is ‘Insanity is repeating the same thing over and over and expecting different results!‘ The Twins ask us to consider this as we think about ways we can make changes to effect a difference for the animals!

“We are proud to say we are not stuck following one organization, more so we support many. There are many wonderful grass-root organizations (i.e. Delta Rescue who rescues animals hands on); however, we are still careful, do our homework and do not endorse those who hoard animals. We want to encourage people to do more than donate. Unfortunately some big organizations start off great, but can end up as functioning as corporations with hefty salaried executives, leaving not much money to help the animals. Big organizations can and often do help with raising awareness of animal issues. We want to take it one more step–our goal is a NO KILL NATION. We are trying to be creative in helping people become proactive: to act, not react. It is so tiring to meet people who say they don’t want to hear what really goes on behind closed doors with animals, yet they do nothing about it–it’s hard, but changing the lives of animals is hard work. We want to encourage everyone to do their own research, and then become active by volunteering at shelters, getting involved in animal legislation (local and federal), protesting unnecessary cruel use of animals in the circus, experimentation, and not to wear or eat animals, etc. If everyone tried one vegan meal, think of the little grateful animal whose life was spared.

Celebrity Helps to Make a Difference

Barbi Twins with @CesarMillan

So here is what I duz want to know. WHY after I has fot long and hard about where I want to leave my chewy, duz Mom come behind me and moof it to a difrent spot?!? It duz take a long time to fink of where I want it to be. It is unfair!! Fanks, Henry.

from @Frankietheig

deer franky

i noes yoo dus be kros bowt this an i undastand ow yoo feel bowt it. arfta al … ow is yoo spozd to find yor chew agane if it dusnt be ware yoo did leev it.

chews dus be verry importunt an sumtimes it dusnt be possibl to finnish it al at wunss or yoo mite fink it wud be nise to sayv it for layta. so wot dus yoo do nekt?

hyd it of corss … ware … in yor bed or praps eevun in yor moms bed. unda th sowfa or unda cooshun on sowfa. on th flor in th middl ware yoo can keep eys on it. ther dus indeed be lots to fink bowt beefor yoo dus mayk up yor mynd.

it dusnt be fare for yor mom to moov it i noes but i arsk yoo to fink for a minnit bowt it from er poynt of vew. i spekt er dusnt want to find yor chew sumware  er dusnt be egspektin it to be cos it wud serpryz er an mite mayk er jump. or it mite be that it wud mayk sumfing abit derty or stikky.

yoo dint say ware er did moov it to so i am finkin that yoo did find it agane. i fink it wud be bestist if in fewcha yoo dus eet it al then yoo dusnt av to wurry bowt hydin it.

strokes … strokes … strokes …

Henry

The Dog Bark Park Inn

Our humans have lots of choices when it comes to vacations, with hotels coming in all sorts of shapes and sizes. However, one of the most unusual choices can be found in Cottonwood, Idaho.

The Dog Bark Park Inn is a bed and breakfast (B&B) shaped like a giant beagle and sits among other large, whimsical sculptures in a relaxing oasis created by chainsaw sculpture artist Dennis Sullivan.

Inside the Dog Bark Park Inn

The 30-foot-high beagle, who is named Sweet Willy, has an entry deck on the second floor that opens onto a large room filled with doggy decorations, including pillows, wall art and a headboard full of different breed cut-outs.

Guests can walk up more steps to a cozy loft area, which is technically located in Sweet Willy’s head. It contains more sleeping space.

And you want to know the best part? Well-behaved dogs and kitties are allowed to visit!

“Guests have said it’s a magical place. Once you come inside and close the door, it’s like a whole new world that makes people smile, which is why we built it,” Sullivan explained.

Noting that he had never been interviewed before by a dog reporter, he added that there are lots of books and board games in the rooms, but no television or phone. “We wanted this to be a serene and relaxing place. And it’s worked. We have a lot of visitors who keep coming back.”

The Dog Bark Park

Outside the inn, a variety of other Sullivan-created sculptures are scattered among 2.25 acres of land. Right next to Sweet Willy is a smaller, 12-foot tall beagle named Toby. A 12-foot tall fire hydrant, which also houses a public restroom for humans, sits nearby.

A walk-in coffee pot created by Sullivan

A little further away, guests can take their picture beside 4-foot blocks that spell out “Doggy,” or by a large fish, toaster or walk-in coffee pot, which will eventually hold a Corningware museum inside. Sullivan is also finishing up an 8 x 8 x 8-foot carved pickup truck, which is actually a storage building.

“It’s a fun place but we’re very serious about the business. We try to make it a great experience for any visitor, whether they are staying in the inn or just here to see the grounds,” said Sullivan.

That’s right, anybody is welcome to come by and explore the area, including leashed doggies. (I’m already dreaming about giant toast and “examining” that fire hydrant!)

Building the Dog House

Sullivan started out as a builder but took up carving dogs from wood about 28 years ago. “I had dogs all my life and I saw what a big connection people have with them,” he explained.

Dennis Sullivan, proprietor and artist.

After selling his carvings at dog shows, he formed a short-term relationship with the QVC shopping network in 1995. Over the course of 18 months, they bought 10,000 of the dogs created by Sullivan, his wife Frances Conklin, and a crew of seven.

“After that, we decided we didn’t want to be a dog factory, so took the QVC money and bought this property.” Soon after, he created Toby to be a good-will ambassador, being pulled by truck to several doggy fundraisers around the region.

Then nine years ago, Dennis and Frances came up with the idea for a permanent, large dog B&B. “And that was the moment that changed our lives.”

At this point I had to ask: why a beagle? Why not something different (such as a Siberian Husky/German Shepherd mix)? He just laughed and explained that was one of the first breeds he ever carved and has remained his most popular seller. “So it really just seemed like a natural fit.”

Noble and Absurd

Today, the inn is open from April to October, but the grounds are open all year long. Sweet Willy has been named a Best of America by Reader’s Digest and has been featured on HGTV, the Rachael Ray Show and even MTV’s Extreme Cribs.

Frances Sullivan in the gift shop.

Dennis, who is now 70 years old, is still carving with Frances in an on-site studio where guests can drop in and watch. A next-door gift shop holds their creations, including more than 60 different dog breeds, as well as bear, moose and fish.

The gift shop is also where you’ll usually find friendly dog ambassador Sprocket, a very calm golden retriever who LOVES tummy rubs. (But then don’t we all?)

Sullivan said he tries to encourage everyone he meets to go for their dreams. “If you have a real passion, and it’s reasonable, then you can achieve it! You can be a success because when others get tired or when roadblocks come up, your passion and inner strength can carry you through.”

Sprocket Sullivan

He added that it is also important to always give back whenever possible. He has donated or slashed the prices of his dog sculptures for several organizations.

This includes an on-going donated project for the local infusion center. While cancer patients at the center go through their procedures, they can look directly out onto a roof where a variety of carved dogs wear tags that spell out “Be Well.”

Speaking of tags, there’s a large one on Sweet Willy that reads “A Noble and Absurd Undertaking.” Appropriately, the inn was recently named as one of Yahoo’s “Top 5 Odd Hotels” in the country.

“We have the most delightful and meaningful business,” said Sullivan. “When we first built the big dog, we didn’t really know what we were getting into, but it’s just been extraordinary. We love people and love our guests. And in addition to taking care of them, if you can make a difference in people’s lives, isn’t that just about the best thing ever?”

The Dog Bark Park Inn

Facts: The inn doesn’t accept drop-ins and does not take online reservations. Instead, they ask potential guests to call 208-962-3647 “So we can get to know you!,” explained Sullivan with a good-natured laugh.

There is an online catalogue of 10-inch and 16-inch dog sculptures on their website. The couple can also customize orders, painting to match pet photos. They can also carve cats, although there hasn’t been as much of a call for them.

All photos supplied by Frances Sullivan, from the Dog Bark Park Inn.

#Pawties and Events are where anipals and humans get together for a Twitterin’ good time. In their tweets they use an introductory hashtag (#) so everyone who wants to join in the fun can easily find them by searching Twitter for #(fill in the blank) pawty or #(event name). #Pawties and Events is where you will find out about the #Pawties taking place on Twitter and where I point you to the official The Anipal Times #Pawty & Events Calendar. Remember to check out the calendar so that you can find the dates and times to mix and mingle with anipals. Now let’s read about some oUff the #pawties and events that happened by the deadline for this article (oh, and if you don’t know how to #pawty, don’t worry I got you covered just read this):

Turkey Free Zone

Well, for the anipals that recently celebrated Thanksgiving, I raise my glass to you and join you in your jubilation! Since there weren’t any #Pawties to report on I got to join my family in their frivolity, hang out with friends and give thanks for all the blessings I have in my life. Also, we donated our time and energy to delivering food to those people and animals who needed a bit of assistance this year–it was a great time. Well, again it seems that there aren’t any #Pawties or events to report on for this time period. In case you missed it, I did a super great Jerry Maguire imitation to express my willingness to help you advertise your #Pawty or event–check it out, have a laugh and then don’t forget to let me know if you have a #Pawty or event you’d like included in the Anipal Times calendar and my weekly article, info is at the end of this article.

Upcoming #Pawties and Events Remember to see the #Pawty and Events calendar to get more info on some other wonderful events. Get ready for #DogTalk, #PetChat, #KeepFits, #NipClub, #CookinWifRabbits and #Purrs4Peace, held on the first Sunday of every month by coordinator @ConfuciusCat and weekly by other anipals (e.g. @ChloeToby) who #Purrs4Peace. Tune in to these entertaining and highly informative weekly shows where you can say “Hi” to old friends and hopefully make new friends, too.

#JinglePawRock

#JinglePawRock Join host @BloodHoundNDots and Furever Dachshund Rescue (@4EverDoxiRescue) on 3-4 December 2011 to kick off this year’s holiday season. This is a Twitter event not to miss–use the hashtag #JinglePawsRock to attend the pawty. So be sure and put on your best holiday dress, and lights and glitter–get ready to celebrate the holidays with all the anipals on Twitter!

#PawPawty

#PawPawty Saturday and Sunday 10-11 December 2011. Join @FrugalDougal and help him as he host his Grand Daddy #pawty–#PawPawty. This is one of the big #pawties of the year anipals, so join in the big fun–get your family and friends, and make your beauty appointments–because you know you’ll want to be fancy in your fur (or fins, or feathers, or whatever you have)! Gather with all the other anipals and join in the fun–everybody Wang Chung Tonight and help raise awareness for a worthy animal rescue group. Don’t miss it–come on out and have some fun at this month’s big #PawPawty!

#WCLWP

#WCLWP Hey pals, @PumpkinPuddy want’s everyone to know that there will be a Winter Carnival at the Lake With Petie! It starts Friday 16 December in the evening and goes til after breakfast on Sunday 18 December. Come to #WCLWP with plans to join friends, have good eats and shake your booty. All kinds of activities planned, like cross-country skiing, skating on the lake, snow ball fights, snow-shoeing, sleigh rides, snow or ice sculpting, snowmobiling. RSVP here so that the pals at #NipClub, who are catering #WCLWP know how much food to make!

#CatmasEve!

#CatMasEvePawty On Saturday, 24 December 2011, you are invited to join hosts @GeorgetheDuck and @SanjeetheCat at this wonderful yearly event! This year’s #CatMasEvePawty is expected to be like the others–just fabulous. So, get your holiday sweaters out and come ready to #pawty at this cool event! @GeorgetheDuck and @SanjeetheCat are in the midst of putting together more information, so please stay tuned!

#SantaPawsDrive Anipals, it’s that time of the year where we gather and give thanks for our family, friends and even strangers–we should all be thankful because we are blessed little animals reading the news on the internet. There are other, less fortunate animals that need our help. Keep an eye on the #SantaPaws website, and in particular their Events site so that you can participate in helping animals all over the world during this holiday season–also, the founders of #SantaPaws want to encourage you to get involved locally, find a shelter, rescue, or just a neighborhood animal that needs some help and pitch in!

If you know of any #pawties or events that you’d like included in an upcoming #Pawties and Events article, please try to give two weeks notice and email me, mattiedog AT anipaltimes DOT com, or @MattieDog on Twitter, include the name and date of the #pawty, and any invite and/or blog links. Until next week, #pawty on anipals!

The Anipal Times does not endorse or support any particular #Pawty and Events fundraising endeavor and donations should be made at the donee’s discretion. Anipals should research fundraising prior to making a contribution/donation in order to make an informed decision.

This cat was rescued from the flood in Thailand

The waters have receded from Bangkok, Thailand’s capital, but much of the country and neighboring Cambodia is still under water. About a thousand people are know to have died in flood-related electrocution or drowning in Thailand and Cambodia. More than nine million people are still affected in Thailand, the Philippines and Cambodia, the Wall Street Journal reported. Soi Dog reported that people were not generally allowed to take companion animals with them when the evacuated. In addition, cities in this part of the world are home to thousands of street dogs and cats. No one has counted how many animals have died in the floods, but surely the figure is in the thousands. The losses would be even higher without people who are devoted to rescuing and caring for the animals.

A mother carries her puppy in the flood water in Thailand.

Soi Dog is accepting donations to support their flood relief work.

Rescuing dogs from the water or from the high land where they have congregated is dangerous work. In addition to boats, people rounded up a number of  large trucks to collect animals and take them to shelters outside the city. Dogs would sometimes climb right into the rescue trucks without human assistance. Other dogs were caught with bare hands or nets.

People rescue a dog from the flood waters in Thailand.

The flood wasn’t limited to the capital, and human rescuers brought animals from all affected areas to shelters on high ground. They worked 24 hours a day transporting dogs to emergency shelters.

Wildlife Friends Foundation in Thailand is providing the main emergency shelter and is housing more than 1000 rescued dogs. They are also working with Soi Dog to take food to gatherings of dogs on high ground. At least one Buddhist temple has been turned into a refuge for dogs escaping, or rescued from, flood waters.

The Disaster Animal Response Team of Kinship Circle, a U.S. nonprofit organization, is on the scene to rescue and care for the thousands of dogs that have been rescued, according to a report on Care2.com. This report includes a photo gallery depicting the rescue work. Kinship Circle accepts donations and allows donors to select an area of focus to support.

World Vets has volunteer veterinarians on the scene to treat injured dogs and spay and neuter. World Vets accepts donations for its work and is currently sharing funds raised with Thai organizations battling the effects of the floods on animals.

All photos used with permission of John Dalley of Soi Dog.

@PepiSmartDog

Hello. I’m @PepiSmartDog, red carpet reporter for the 2011 Anipal Academy Awards, which was spread over three days: 11-13 November. This second annual extravaganza was held at the AAA Theatre in Hollywood, CA (on Twitter) and sponsored by BlogPaws.

AAAs Award Trophy

It was a fabulous event! Each time a new paw touched the red carpet, hundreds of pawaparazzi flashlights went off, temporarily blinding pals’ eyes. Swanning along the red carpet, pals bumped into each other, posing for photo opportunities every chance they got.

Fashion labels Bearmani, Catmani, The Pixie, Doxie Designs and the Mario Label were very popular amongst celebrity pals. I was agog, surrounded by fine fabrics, sequins and the over-use of hair products — and this was only the macho-man pals; the lady pals looked magnificent in flowing gowns, laden with beads and all forms of sparkliness. It was a Sparklicious dream come true.

@MaggieTKat

On Friday, after a full day at her Hollywood stylist, AT writer and editor @MaggieTKat stepped onto the main Blogpaws Theatre stage and stunned everyone with her beauty. Over the next few hours Maggie acknowledged each individual DJ, Quiz Master, Sekurity Pal and Barktender in the Achievement Awards, with a Star of Fame for their selfless volunteer work. Most of these pals volunteer pawty after pawty, often working long hours with little acknowledgement. Maggie did an outstanding job, making sure every deserving pal got his or her moment in the spotlight. It was an audience full of smiles. Afterward, Maggie posed for pictures for Dogue Magazine as is said to have received a lucrative offer to appear in the upcoming Kibble & Kitteh magazine. View Achievement Awards here.

RB Pal @ChatteMuse

On Saturday afternoon, I delivered my Over The Rainbow Bridge presentation. When the stage lights came on, all Rainbow Bridge pals were already on stage with me. Together we all danced and sang one of our favourite Rainbow Bridge signature songs: “Stayin Alive!” To everyone’s surprise, we were all wearing little white John Travolta suits.

I made several one minute videos for the awards, including an uplifting Rainbow Bridge one, as well as a seven-minute Guided Tour Rainbow Bridge movie, which is now our signature RB movie. Links to all the videos are listed at the bottom of the page. View my full Rainbow Bridge Presentation here.

RB Pal @ParisChien

All Rainbow Bridge pals received their own diamond encrusted jet powered motorbike. We have big macho ones for boys and beautiful petite scooter ones for girls. Nineteen pals received their motorbikes and a star. At the end of our presentation, our Rainbow Bridge gang made Twitter history: We staged Twitter’s first ever Flash Mob Dance!

“Put your paws in the air, you were born this way baby!” @MarioDaCat, who was my right-paw guy throughout the night, was the first to  join in dancing with me. Then all the Rainbow Bridge gang on stage started dancing too, quickly followed by the front rows of audience pals. Our Flash Mob swept right back thru the auditorium, with everyone together, dancing their paws off. We were born this way baby!

AAAs Co-Creator @TheNascarKitty & @AutumnTheDoxie

A few hours later the general Awards were held, and AAA co-creators @AutumnTheDoxie and @TheNascarKitty put on a hilarious show. View General Award Nominees here.

By now pals were rev’ed up into turbo gear — and by this stage the red carpet had to be replaced with a new one, due to traffic. Not long into the main awards, Twitter went into overload and almost blew a gasket. Luckily, Twitter came good for us all as pal after pal received their trophy, an amazing bling-y certificate and a Hollywood star. There were screams of joy, and groans of despair.

@Cokiethecat congratulates wife @JazzyDaCat on her Best Style Award

On Sunday afternoon, AT writer and former Editor in Chief @CokieTheCat  hosted the Video and Photographic Awards. Cokie burst onto stage in true Hollywood style and lit up the theatre up with his dry humour and witty antics. The lady kittehs were fainting in droves when Cokie played his opening movie, featuring the Hollywood Insider himself, and showing why he is known as “the Daniel Craig of Cats.” View Video & Photographic Awards here.

The AAA Theatre was packed to capacity as different anipal celebrities announced winners in the different categories, and several movies were shown highlighting the photo and video entries. If you submitted an entry, you are sure to be in at least one of the movies. See the list of links at the bottom of article to see yourself on the silver screen. You can view all the photo and video entries in the Screening Room here and the winners here. @ParkerSKat provided an awesome musical background of movie theme songs during the photo and video awards.

One pal told me “Getting an Anipal Award can make or break you on Twitter!”  Unfortunately, the pressure for some was enormous. I was not a judge (thank DOG). The winners were chosen by popular vote on the AAA website, but to me everyone was a winner.

@CokieTheCat congratulates @PepiSmartDog on his Honorary Award

I was ecstatic to receive an Honorary Award from Cokie, and humbly accepted it on behalf of all Rainbow Bridge pals. Cokie said it was “For outstanding unselfish service & dedication to the anipal community through photos & videos,” but I couldn’t do any of it without all of you helping, too. My showgirls got very excited and ran onto the stage screaming. When we left the stage, we left a trail of sequins and diamonds.

The night ended on a spectacular note when our sponsor,  Blogpaws awarded a $250 cheque to our charity, Kari’s Fund at Colorado State University who are working to find a cure for animal cancer. BlogPaws then made a further announcement that knocked our collars off: @PetsAddLife would donate a further ONE THOUSAND DOLLARS to our charity if they hit 5000 Twitter followers this week. We all went crazy with excitement. I’m happy to announce that on 18 November, they reached their goal, which means Kari’s Fund will get $1000 from Pets Add Life, which, added with the BlogPaws checque and donations from anipals during the awards, comes to almost $2000 U.S!

@BlogPaws Sponsors & Photo & Video Host @CokieTheCat

As well as all the mayhem, we also had seemingly non-stop quizzes and fantastic prizes throughout the three days. The awards were three days of excitement and nervous energy, coupled with hair products and sparkles galore. To all who worked their paws to the bone in preparation for the event, THANK YOU.

I’d like to thank @AutumntheDoxie &@TheNaskarKitty for creating the AAA’s, the AAA Committee for all their hard work, and @DanaPixie and @TinyPearlCat in particular, for helping us slog it out behind the scenes, especially during the last few days when we were almost mental. BOL! Their wonderful artwork was a huge part of the event, and you’ll be seeing it on blogs from here to the moon in the weeks and months to come! Many pals worked behind the scenes but have perhaps not received the public recognition they deserve; to these pals please know you helped make the event fabulous and your contribution helped make the night an outstanding success!  To everyone who participated: THANK YOU !

VIDEOS:

1 minute  Plush Pals video

1 minute Opening Ceremony video

1 minute Rainbow Bridge video

1 minute Photographic Entries video

1 minute Video Entries video

7 minute Main Rainbow Bridge Guided Tour Movie

1 minute PepiSmartDog, Disco King

1 minute CokieTheCat, Hollywood Insider video

1 minute Concluding Awards Ceremony video

As any pet lover knows, pets are therapy. But the recent arrival of Winnie to @Keely_Bobs’ home made me think, “What about animals that work for people?” “What about the animals, that people depend on for help with the day to day?”

It was with this in mind that I contacted @Keely_Bobs to find out more about fostering a puppy who will, hopefully, go on to be a Guide Dog (Seeing Eye Dog) for someone who is visually impaired or has lost their sight.

Keely was born in 2005. She was to be a Guide Dog but a heart murmur and her sensitive nature meant that she was more suited to being a family pet and ultimately, a foster mum. Winnie is her fourth foster puppy. Before this she had helped Quella, Smartie and Flora. A happy, companionable and well-socialised dog, she is content to teach a bouncy puppy a few manners and it’s place in the pack. And at six years old, still young enough for some rough and tumble.

For Winnie, Keely is Mum.

Winnie was born 7 September 2011 to one of the Guide Dogs brood bitches, Smartie. Yes, the Smartie that Keely looked after! Winnie was the first of eight puppies in Smartie’s litter.

Puppy Walkers

When she was seven weeks old, she was taken to live with Keely. In the UK Winnie’s foster family are called Puppy Walkers. But there’s a lot more to it than just walking a puppy.

During the year or so she spends with them she will be taught manners by Keely, socialised and taken into any number of situations that she might encounter in everyday life such as going into shops, getting on trains and buses, going to the theatre or even a football match. Winnie must get used to bicycles and joggers; she mustn’t bark at noisy cars. She will learn her basic commands like “sit, stay, come.” So that she can love and work for someone who needs her help, she must bond with people.

Winnie, like any puppy, struggled to settle in for a couple of days. But Keely was there to reassure her and her warmth and even her heartbeat have helped Winnie to come to terms with her new situation.

Guide Dogs

In Britain, it costs about £50,000 ($79,000 US , approximately)  to train and support a Guide Dog throughout its lifetime.

Training is not a quick process. The first year is socialisation, getting used to new situations, people and animals and then at about 12 or 14 months Winnie will start her specialised training.

This will include negotiating obstacles safely, leading her owner on the street, in a straight line and into buildings, calmly and happily. She mustn’t stop to check the peemail at every lamp post. She must be quietly focused on the task and listen to the person she’s guiding. Winnie will learn how to find the chair — the empty one in a waiting room for example. The door — useful when you need to go anywhere. And the button — so that her owner can stop the traffic and cross the road safely. If her prospective owner is in a wheelchair, she will be trained to give the chair space and find her way around obstacles with the extra space in mind.

Winnie will learn "Sit" and "Stay," even when it isn't brekkie time!

The average working life of a Guide Dog is seven years. This means a person may well have seven or eight different dogs in their lifetime.

Dogs may leave the training programme at different stages for a variety of reasons. Some simply can’t get used to the harness they wear, others may have a high chase drive. Some dogs may not pass their final tests but go on to be “Buddy Dogs.”

This is a new scheme which places dogs with families or school to help partially sighted children and young people to become Guide Dog owners. A Buddy Dog gives a young person a chance to walk, groom and care for a dog and hopefully increases their confidence to use a Guide Dog, should that become necessary.

In Britain, Guide Dogs was established 80 years ago this year. They have helped 29,000 people in that time. Incredible when you think it all started with two ladies, four dogs and a lock-up garage in 1931.

Let’s hope that our Winnie can make that 29,000 and one.

All pictures courtesy of @Keely_Bobs.