Carol's Blog

Updated - Poisonous Foods for Pets

2009-01-31T11:04:00.003-05:00

Posted this last about a year and a half ago, but thought it was worth reposting with updates. This list comes from the Humane Society Website (www.hsus.org), and is fairly short and sweet. For information on what to do if your pet is poisoned, see the ASPCA (www.aspca.org) website for more information.

FOODS POTENTIALLY POISONOUS FOR PETS
Some foods that are considered good for people can be very dangerous for pets. The list below highlights some of the most common foods that can be dangerous to animals. This is not an exhaustive list and any decision to provide your pet with food not specifically intended for animals should be discussed with your veterinarian or pet nutritionist. For more information on foods that could be dangerous to pets, visit the American Animal Hospital Association website.

The following foods may be dangerous to your pet:
Alcoholic beverages
Apple seeds
Apricot pits
Avocados—toxic to birds, mice, rabbits, horses, cattle and dairy goats
Cherry pits
Candy (particularly chocolate, which is toxic to dogs, cats and ferrets, and any candy containing the sweetener Xylitol)
Coffee (grounds, beans, chocolate covered espresso beans)
Grapes
Hops (used in home beer brewing)
Macadamia nuts
Moldy foods
Mushroom plants
Mustard seeds
Onions and onion powder
Peach pits
Potato leaves and stems (green parts)
Raisins
Rhubarb leaves
Salt
Tea (caffeine)
Tomato leaves and stems (green parts)
Walnuts
Yeast dough
This information was compiled from various sources.

Stray from the Heart's Spring Fling - May 28, 2008

2008-04-29T12:40:00.002-04:00

2008 Stray from the Heart Spring Fling: Daisies, Dogs & Daffodils
WHEN:Wednesday, May 28, 2008
7:00 PM to 11:00 PM
WHERE:Astor House130 East 80th St (between Lexington and Park Avenues) New York City View Map
TICKETS:$100 Under 30; $125 regular ticket; $150 at the door.
Go to www.strayfromtheheart.org for more information or e-mail rsvp@strayfromtheheart.org.

Get those dancing shoes on and your best spring outfit because Stray from the Heart, Bella Starlet Dog and all the animals invite you to a magical night of music and dancing with Baldwin Drive.At this year's event we will be honoring two extraordinary individuals. Maria Milito, "Countdown" at MSNBC NEWS, DJ for Q104.3 NYC, Fill-in Host for "The Call" at NY1 NEWS and avid supporter of animal welfare and adoption facilities throughout NYC and long time Stray from the heart supporter and brilliant photographer, Nina Chiofalo. Her compassion for animals & brilliant creativity that she regularly offers to help save animals is truly remarkable. Their generosity and heart has been an inspiration to us all.

Tickets for the event include hors d'oeuvres, open bar, dancing, raffle, silent auction and more. There are still sponsorships available. Please contact rsvp@strayfromtheheart.org for more details.

EQUA-DOGS POISONED! Please help!!

2008-04-21T10:03:00.003-04:00

Dear Friends,

As you know, the Amigo Fiel Shelter in Ecuador is closing, as they have lost their land. We have been working hard to get the remaining dogs out of the shelter and into forever homes in the US and Canada. Last night -- tragedy struck. Someone snuck in and poisoned all thirteen remaining dogs -- three died, one is in critical condition, and the rest are stable for the time being. PLEASE HELP! Stray from the Heart is doing everything it can to help these poor creatures. See the blog post below for more information.

Carol

April 20th, 2008 laura-->
It’s with tremendous sadness that I have to tell you all that the Ecua-Dogs still looking for homes were poisoned last night by unknown assailants. We need your heart and prayers right now for those dogs who have not passed. PLEASE send all your love and prayers to these incredible survivors.Here are the dogs before the poisoning: http://www.freewebs.com/amigofielecuador/dogs.htm
Pamela died already, but the others are holding on. The biggest problem is that there is no real medical care down there to help them. The need blood transfusions and real help, but there are no real vets down there to do anything. They are all just on IVs and we are waiting to see if they make it.
Luckily Tommy was just flown over last Wed, so he is safe. Sadly, the rest are not.
Unfortunately, there is not a whole lot you can do at this point to help these beautiful dogs, but pray and send all the well wishes you have in your hearts! Please pray especially hard for Gracie and Hugo. We had planned on bringing these fantastic, friendly and loving pups over in the next few weeks and then this happened.
We do not know who did this evil thing or why. I personally can’t begin to understand the hate and heartless type of human who would perpetuate such cruelty on any other living being. It hurts my soul.

Lost Dog - SALLY - Rest in Peace

2008-01-13T10:47:00.001-05:00

Sadly, Sally was found. She had been hit by a car, and, because she had no ID, her owners had not been notified.

Please, please -- microchip your pets. Go to AKC Companion Animal Recovery (www.akccar.org) for more information.

Lost Dog
Name: Sally
Lost: Jan 5, 9pm Ft Tryon Park, New York
No collar or tags
Completely vaccinated, not dangerous
30 lbs, mixed breed, shy temperament
Call Amy @857-222-8270

VERY LOVED –
REWARD IF FOUND

Stray from the Heart's 2008 Calendar

2007-12-10T15:32:00.000-05:00

Get yours today!

Go to http://www.strayfromtheheart.org/ for all the pictures and to get your copy of the 2008 Stray from the Heart calendar -- Tails of Hope and Joy. Our little gondolier (left) is Mr. July!

Vick Gets 23 Months for Dog Fighting

2007-12-10T15:29:00.000-05:00

Go to CNN for full coverage: http://www.cnn.com/2007/US/law/12/10/vick.sentenced/index.html

RICHMOND, Virginia (CNN) -- Michael Vick, once one of the highest paid players in the National Football League, was sentenced to 23 months in prison for financing a dogfighting ring and helping to kill pit bulls that did not fight aggressively.

Michael Vick began serving his sentence before he knew what it would be.

Vick's stunning downfall from NFL superstar to disgraced dogfighting defendant culminated Monday in a 90-minute sentencing hearing in federal court in Richmond, Virginia.
Vick was dressed in a black-and-white striped prison suit and apologized to his family and to the judge.

"You need to apologize also to the millions of young people who look up to you," U.S. District Judge Henry E. Hudson retorted.

"I am willing to deal with the consequences and accept responsibility for my actions," Vick continued, as about a dozen of his friends and family members looked on.

But Judge Hudson appeared to be unmoved. "I'm convinced it was not a momentary lack of judgment on your part. You were a full partner," he told Vick.

The judge added that he wasn't sure Vick had fully accepted reponsiblity for his actions. Supporters, including former baseball great Hank Aaron, Atlanta Mayor Shirley Franklin and the pastor of Vick's church sent letters while others called the judge's chambers.

Vick, 27, had faced a maximum of five years in prison. Federal sentencing guidelines recommended a sentence of 12 to 18 months.

Animal rights protesters lined up outside the courthouse. Some carried signs with photographs of dogs, while others read "Dogs deserve justice," and "Report dog fighters."
U.S. Attorney Chuck Rosenberg said after the hearing that the investigation "exposed a seamy side of our society." He added, "I hope Mr. Vick learned important lessons and that his admission of guilt will speed his rehabilitation."

Stray from the Heart Home for the Holidays Party

2007-12-06T15:26:00.001-05:00

I just wanted to send out a big thank you to everyone who attended the third annual home for the holidays party last night at Guest House in Chelsea. The crowd was amazing! The food was awesome, and the raffle was the best ever!

Have a great Xmas!
Love, Carol, Georgia, Dylan, Rosa and Micah

New Dog Treat Recipes

2007-08-25T10:31:00.001-04:00

These, courtesy of The Daily Drool (www.dailydrool.com/recipes)

I was looking for some of the Three Dog Bakery recipes and stumbled across this great resource for all natural dog treats you can make at home. Here are a few selections. Full menu at the link above.

Carol

BANANA PUPCAKES (3 dog bakery)
2 cups water
2 bananas
1/2 teasp vanilla
3 cups whole wheat flour
1/2 tablespoon baking powder
1 egg
2 tablespoons honey

Preheat onen to 350. In a bowl combine water, mashed bananas, vanilla, egg and honey. Add flour and baking powder. Mix well. Pour into cupcake pans. ( I used nonstick spray on the pans) Bake 20 min or until toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Frosting - In a mixer combine 12 oz nonfat cream cheese, 1 teasp. vanilla, 1 teasp. honey. Add 3 teasp cinnamon or carob powder, if desired.

DOGGIE COOKIES
2 1/2 c Whole wheat flour
1/2 c Powdered dry milk
1/2 ts Salt
1/2 ts Garlic powder
1 ts Brown sugar
6 tb Meat drippings
1 Beaten egg
1/2 c Ice water

1. Preheat oven to 350. Lightly oil a cookie sheet.Combine flour, dry milk, salt, garlic powder andsugar. Cut in meat drippings until mixture resemblescorn meal. Mix in egg. Add enough water so thatmixture forms a ball. Using your fingers, pat outdough onto cookie sheet to half inch thick. Cut withcookie cutter or knife and remove scraps. Scraps canbe formed again and baked.

2. Bake 25-30 minutes.Remove from tray and cool on rack. from: _Cookiemania_

BANANA BISCOTTI
Courtesy of Three Dog Bakery
5 cups White Flour
1/4 cup Peanuts, chopped
1/2 teaspoon Baking Soda
1 medium Egg
1/4 cup Vegetable oil
1 1/2 cups pureed Banana
2 teaspoons Vanilla
Water

Preheat oven to 325F/160C.

Mix dry, then wet ingredients until lumpy. Add water, one teaspoon at a time as needed. Knead by handon table until mixed thoroughly. Form into logs approximately 2" - 2 1/2" high. Flatten so that log is 6" - 7" wide by 1" high. Place on non-stick baking sheets. Bake approximately 30 - 40 minutes. Remove and cool for 10 minutes. Slice into 1/2" - 3/4" slices. Place onbaking sheets and bake for about 20 minutes or until golden brown. Cool.

Vick Suspended Indefinitely without Pay

2007-08-25T10:14:00.000-04:00

This from today's New York Times:

http://www.nytimes.com/2007/08/25/sports/football/25vick.html?ref=football

After Plea, Vick Is Given Suspension by the N.F.L.

By MICHAEL S. SCHMIDT and JUDY BATTISTA
Published: August 25, 2007
The National Football League suspended Michael Vick indefinitely without pay yesterday after he admitted in court papers that he paid for dogfighting bets and helped kill underperforming dogs.

The 27-year-old Vick, the Atlanta Falcons’ star quarterback, will be out for at least the 2007 N.F.L. season and probably much longer. If he serves a year in prison — the sentence recommended in the plea agreement — he will probably not be eligible to play again until 2009.
Vick’s admissions came in a plea agreement filed at the federal courthouse in Richmond, Va., where he is expected to plead guilty formally on Monday to felony charges of conspiring to travel in interstate commerce in aid of unlawful activities and conspiring to sponsor a dog in an animal-fighting venture.

Also Monday, the federal judge in the case, Henry E. Hudson, is expected to schedule a sentencing hearing, probably for November.

N.F.L. Commissioner Roger Goodell told Vick in a letter that his actions were “cruel and reprehensible” and that Vick’s involvement in gambling was a violation of the N.F.L.’s personal conduct policy.

By accepting the plea deal, Vick said he would cooperate with the investigation regarding any criminal activity.

He also said that he did not place side bets on any of the fights and did not share in the purses that were won by Bad Newz Kennels, but he said that he was present when his co-defendants placed bets.

Vick said that he agreed to the killing of “approximately 6 to 8 dogs that did not perform well in ‘testing’ sessions,” adding that “all the dogs were killed by various methods, including hanging and drowning.”

He agreed to pay restitution for the costs associated with the 53 pit bulls that authorities have held as evidence since they were seized from his property in April. The costs, the plea agreement said, include the “long-term care and/or the humane euthanasia of some or all of those animals as may be directed by the court in this case.”

In Goodell’s letter to Vick, he said that he would review the suspension after legal proceedings were concluded.

He said that in reviewing the suspension, he would take into consideration the possibility of new charges; Vick’s conduct; his sentence; and how much Vick cooperated with the league and the law enforcement officials.

“Even if you personally did not place bets, as you contend, your actions in funding the betting and your association with illegal gambling both violate the terms of your N.F.L. Player Contract and expose you to corrupting influences in derogation of one of the most fundamental responsibilities of an N.F.L. player,” Goodell’s letter said.

Not long after Vick was suspended, Nike announced that it had severed ties with Vick, who had been endorsing Nike products since 2001, when he was picked No. 1 over all in the N.F.L. draft.
The suspension gives the N.F.L. the flexibility to reconsider Vick’s suspension at every step: after he is sentenced; if charges are brought in Surry County, Va., where Vick owned the property on which the kennel was located; or after he has served time.

Vick’s lead defense lawyer, Billy Martin, said in a written statement: “While Mr. Vick is not personally charged with or responsible for committing all of the acts alleged in the indictment, as with any conspiracy charge, he is taking full responsibility for his actions and the actions of the others involved.”

Martin said Vick would make a public statement soon.

Even if Vick were reinstated in time for the 2009 season, he would not have thrown a ball in competition in two seasons, and would surely have lost some of his speed — one of his best weapons.

The suspension frees the Atlanta Falcons to pursue, before an arbitrator, a portion of Vick’s $37 million signing bonus because he is now in default of his 10-year, $130 million contract, one of the league’s richest. The Falcons could also decide to release Vick. Their decision is expected Monday.

“His admissions describe actions that are incomprehensible and unacceptable for a member of the National Football League and the Atlanta Falcons,” the Falcons’ owner, Arthur Blank, said in a statement.

He added, “As with other actions he has taken this year, the Commissioner is making a strong statement that conduct which tarnishes the good reputation of the N.F.L. will not be tolerated.”
Blank also said, “We hope that Michael will use this time, not only to further address his legal matters, but to take positive steps to improve his personal life.”

In a telephone interview, Daniel C. Richman, a professor at Columbia University School of Law and a former assistant United States attorney, said of Vick’s plea agreement, “It could lead to an investigation that could go in an entirely different direction, and he could be used to testify in front of a grand jury investigating other matters.”

RelatedPlea Agreement (U.S. v. Michael Vick)Statement of Facts Indictment

Jail Time Likely For Vick

2007-08-21T09:58:00.000-04:00

This from CBS News:

(CBS/AP) Less than a month after saying he looked forward to clearing his name, Michael Vick now acknowledges the heinous acts associated with his name are true.

The Atlanta Falcons quarterback said through a lawyer Monday that he will plead guilty to federal dogfighting conspiracy charges, an admission that likely will mean prison time.

Vick may never play anywhere in the NFL again, reports CBS News correspondent Mark Strassman. If he put up most of the gambling money, as his co-defendants claim, the NFL could ban him for life.

But for now, any hopes of salvaging his NFL career are secondary to his impending confinement.

"His focus is on his family, his focus is on answering to this judge," Vick's lead defense attorney, Billy Martin, told The Associated Press after announcing the plea agreement Monday.

U.S. District Judge Henry Hudson can sentence Vick to up to five years in prison and fine him $250,000, although federal sentencing guidelines will call for less. A government official, speaking on condition of anonymity because the terms are not final, told the AP that prosecutors will recommend a sentence of a year to 18 months.

The official said such a sentence would be more than what is usually recommended for first-time offenders, reflecting the government's attempt to show that animal abusers will receive more than a slap on the wrist.

Vick will return Monday to the same courthouse where he pleaded not guilty and resolved to prove his innocence just 25 days ago. This time he will plead guilty, and Hudson will schedule a date for sentencing.

Since that initial court appearance, all three of Vick's co-defendants have pleaded guilty and agreed to cooperate in the government's case against him, including testifying against him if the case had gone to trial in November as scheduled.

The co-defendants said Vick bankrolled virtually the entire "Bad Newz Kennels" operation in rural southeastern Virginia, including providing gambling funds, an act that could trigger a lifetime ban from the NFL under the league's personal conduct policy.

Two of them also said Vick participated in the brutal executions of at least eight underperforming dogs.

Facing those allegations and the prospect of a superseding indictment from a new grand jury that began meeting Monday, Vick opted to change his plea.

"Mr. Vick has agreed to enter a plea of guilty to those charges and to accept full responsibility for his actions and the mistakes he has made," Martin said in a statement. "Michael wishes to apologize again to everyone who has been hurt by this matter."

CBS News legal analyst Rikki Klieman said Vick had little choice but to accept the plea deal.

"This was a deal that he had to take at this point. It's one thing to have one person testifying against you. When you have three co-defendants, plus others testifying against you, even a great lawyer like Billy Martin knows his limits," Klieman said.

Even with his plea deal, Vick's legal troubles still aren't over, reports Strassman. That just takes care of business with the feds; state prosecutors in Virginia say they plan to bring their own charges against Vick for dogfighting sometime late next month.

Read the full story at http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2007/08/21/sportsline/main3188080.shtml

Michael Vick - More Charges on the Way and Euthanization for His Dogs

2007-08-20T12:13:00.000-04:00

All three of Michael Vick's accused co-conspirators in Bad Newz Kennels cut deals for themselves this week, implicating Vick in financing and running the dog fighting operation, and in heartlessly executing puppies who didn't promise to fight well. A federal grand jury is convening and may add charges to Vick's existing indictments.

Tragically, federal animal control authorities are preparing to euthanize most of the 53 pit bulls seized from Vick's property. Animal rights groups have cited the fact that the dogs were trained to fight and therefore are not likely to be viable as pets. By breeding and training these dogs as killers, Vick has condemned them to death -- either as fighting dogs or as rescued dogs. These animals entered the world under his direction with virtually no hope of happiness under any circumstances. Please say a prayer for them.

For the Boston Herald's full coverage of the Vick indictments, go to http://patriots.bostonherald.com/otherNFL/view.bg?articleid=1018063

For coverage on the fate of Vick's dogs, go to http://www.courant.com/sports/football/hc-vick0820.artaug20,0,3609257.story

2007-08-20T11:50:00.000-04:00

Vote for Dylan, Save Pups!
Pawspot.com, in cooperation with A Dog’s Life all natural dog treats (http://www.adogslife.net/) is sponsoring an online competition to find the dog who will go on the front of one of their dog treat bags.

I’ve posted my Stray from the Heart Adoptee, my precious Dylan, there. If he wins, Stray from the Heart will get the press around it, and it’s a great way to get our name out there.

Go to:
http://www.pawspot.com/gallery/view-photo/v/album/14/id/3424/

Rate this photo of Dylan as high as you can, and he could end up on the front of a bag of dog treats! (Seriously, I promise to mention SFTH in every profile, and we’ll get our name into the press release that goes out if he wins!)

Unfortunately, unsportsmanlike characters go online to downgrade other dogs to keep their dogs in the lead. So, vote often to keep our guy up there. You can vote every 24 hours.

Thanks! And here’s to SFTH being the cover dog!

Carol

Foster Homes Needed for Adoptable Dogs

2007-08-16T15:00:00.001-04:00

Stray from the Heart, a non-profit dog rescue organization, needs you to volunteer, donate, foster or adopt a beautiful, wonderful, homeless pet.

It's August, and the shelters are full. We need caring individuals to provide loving homes for our strays until forever homes can be found.

For more information, go to http://www.strayfromtheheart.org/ and click on our fostering application.

Rosario and Rosie - The Sweetest Thing

2007-08-06T15:59:00.000-04:00

If the sweetest thing is sisterhood, connection, a real sense of family, then Rosie and Rosario are just that. These beautiful pups are looking for a loving home.

Rosie and Rosario, two 35 lb girls, were rescued from Ecuador on death's doorstep. Together in the shelter in Quito, and now in foster care in New York, these two beautiful girls have formed a special bond with each other. Stray from the Heart would love to find them a home together, so that they may never know they fear and hopelessness they once felt again. For more information on adopting these girls, call Beth at 212-496-1053 or submit an adoption application on line at http://www.strayfromthehheart.org/.

Rosie's bio can be viewed at http://www.strayfromtheheart.org/adoptions/adoptables/dog_page.cfm?identifier=290

Rosario's bio can be viewed at

http://www.strayfromtheheart.org/adoptions/adoptables/dog_page.cfm?identifier=291

Great Moments in Sports - Michael Vick

2007-08-06T15:56:00.000-04:00

Caption this!

Rawlings Ends Vick Endorsements

2007-08-02T11:46:00.000-04:00

This, courtesy of July 31, 2007 USA Today:
http://www.usatoday.com/sports/football/nfl/falcons/2007-07-31-vick-rawlings_N.htm

Rawlings ends relationship with Michael Vick
Updated document.

ATLANTA (AP) — Rawlings Sports Goods Company said Tuesday that it was ending its relationship with Michael Vick because of the federal dogfighting conspiracy allegations against the Atlanta Falcons quarterback.

Update on Michael Vick

2007-07-31T12:07:00.000-04:00

Please add any updates you may encounter. Many thanks to the news outlets cited here for giving this story the press it deserves.

New indictments likely in Michael Vick case based on statements of defendant cooperating with the Federal Investigation
Nike suspends Vick's contract without pay, pulls products, pending trial

Upper Deck to remove Vick from trading card collections

Full text below of these stories. Click on the source links to see the news providers' continuing coverage.

Source: http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2007/football/nfl/07/30/bc.fbn.vickco.defendant.ap/index.html
Vick co-defendant pleads guiltyTaylor says Vick bankrolled dogfighting operation

Posted: Monday July 30, 2007 10:06AM; Updated: Monday July 30, 2007 6:00PM
RICHMOND, Va. (AP) -- One of Michael Vick's co-defendants pleaded guilty Monday to his role in a dogfighting conspiracy he says was financed almost entirely by the Atlanta Falcons quarterback.

As part of a plea agreement, Tony Taylor pledged to fully cooperate with the government in its prosecution of Vick and two other men accused of running an interstate dogfighting enterprise known as "Bad Newz Kennels" on Vick's property in rural Surry County.

"The 'Bad Newz Kennels' operation and gambling monies were almost exclusively funded by Vick," a summary of facts supporting the plea agreement and signed by Taylor states.The plea deal requires Taylor to testify against Vick and his two remaining co-defendants if called upon to do so. Taylor cannot get a stiffer sentence or face any new charges based on any new information he provides, according to terms of the agreement.

Additional charges are possible, however, against Vick and the other two. Federal prosecutors have said a superseding indictment will be issued in August.

Vick's lead attorney, Billy Martin, did not immediately return a phone message.Taylor, 34, of Hampton, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to travel in interstate commerce in aid of unlawful activities, and conspiring to sponsor a dog in an animal fighting venture.Vick pleaded not guilty to the same charges last week and said in a written statement that he looked forward to "clearing my good name." He also pleaded with the public to resist a rush to judgment.

The gruesome details outlined in the July 17 indictment have fueled public protests against Vick and prompted the suspension of some of his lucrative endorsement deals. Also, NFL commissioner Roger Goodell has barred Vick from the Falcons' training camp.The summary of facts signed by Taylor supports the indictment's claims that the dogfighting ring executed underperforming dogs by drowning, hanging and other brutal means. Taylor admitted shooting one dog and electrocuting another when they did not perform well in test fights in the summer of 2002.

Vick, 27, attended several dogfights in Virginia and other states with his partners, according to the statement. Prosecutors claim the fights offered purses as high as $26,000. Taylor, who will be sentenced Dec. 14, said he was not promised any specific sentence in return for his cooperation with the government.

He faces a maximum of five years in prison and a $250,000, although federal sentencing guidelines likely will call for less. The range will be determined by the court's probation office, but the judge can depart from that range if he finds aggravating or mitigating circumstances.Taylor and his attorney, Stephen A. Hudgins of Newport News, declined to answer reporters' questions as they left the federal courthouse. Prosecutors also would not comment.

During the hearing, Taylor spoke only in response to routine yes-or-no questions from U.S. District Judge Henry E. Hudson. He answered "Yes" when the judge asked if he had agreed to cooperate with the government.

Taylor acknowledged in the summary of facts that he found the property that Vick purchased in 2001 for $30,000 for development into a dogfighting compound. Taylor says he maintained and trained the dogs for about three years, using his share of winnings -- which were split among the partners -- for living expenses.

He left the operation after a falling out with co-defendant Quanis L. Phillips and others in September 2004, according to the statement of facts.

Vick and Purnell A. Peace, 35, of Virginia Beach, and Phillips, 28, of Atlanta, are scheduled for trial Nov. 26. They remain free without bond.

Nike Suspends Vick Contract Without Pay

By PAUL NEWBERRY 07.28.07, 4:09 AM ET

Source: http://www.forbes.com/feeds/ap/2007/07/28/ap3963037.html

FLOWERY BRANCH, Ga. -
Nike suspended its lucrative contract with Michael Vick on Friday, while Reebok took the unprecedented step of stopping sales of his No. 7 jersey. In another dose of bad news for the indicted quarterback, a top trading card company announced it was pulling Vick's likeness from any new packs.

Facing protests from animal-rights groups, Nike (nyse: NKE - news - people ) announced it was suspending Vick's endorsement deal without pay, as well as halting sales of Vick-related shoes and other products at its retail stores.

"Nike is concerned by the serious and highly disturbing allegations made against Michael Vick, and we consider any cruelty to animals inhumane and abhorrent," Nike spokesman Dean Stoyer said in a statement.

Reebok, the official uniform supplier of the NFL, said it would stop selling Vick's replica jersey at retail stores and through its Web site.

Donruss, one of four major trading card companies, has decided to pull Vick's card from any future 2007 releases, according to Beckett Media, which covers the collectibles industry.
All three hits came one day after the Atlanta Falcons quarterback pleaded not guilty to federal dogfighting charges in Richmond, Va. In the indictment, he was accused of sponsoring a gruesome operation that often shot, hanged, drowned or electrocuted losing dogs.

Since Vick has not been convicted of any crime, Nike left open the door to resume its business relationship with the star player if he's acquitted. The company already had decided to suspend release of his fifth signature shoe, the Air Zoom Vick V.

"We do believe that Michael Vick should be afforded the same due process as any citizen in the United States," the Nike statement said. "Therefore, we have not terminated our relationship."
Vick signed with Nike in 2001, the same year Atlanta chose him as the NFL's No. 1 overall draft pick. He led the Falcons to the NFC championship game during the 2004 season and last year became the first quarterback in league history to rush for 1,000 yards.

Vick is barred from the Falcons' training camp while the league investigates his actions for possible violations of its new personal conduct policy. He is set for trial Nov. 26 and faces up to five years in prison.

The case began April 25 when investigators conducting a drug search at a massive home Vick built in rural Virginia found 66 dogs, including 55 pit bulls, and equipment typically used in dogfighting. They included a "rape stand" that holds aggressive dogs in place for mating and a "breakstick" used to pry open a dog's mouth.

PETA - People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals - called off its planned protest at a dozen Niketown stores across the country next week.

"Regardless of Vick's guilt or innocence in a court of law, the facts in this case clearly support this decision," PETA said. "No company wants a spokesperson with a massive illegal dogfighting ring operating on his property, regardless of his level of involvement."

The Humane Society of the United States said the companies couldn't ignore the overwhelming opposition to having any association with Vick. He said some 165,000 e-mails were sent to Nike through the group's Web site.

"I think there's a direct relationship," said Wayne Pacelle, president of the HSUS. "We asked them to do this and the pressure continued to build, especially as the facts of the indictment came out. It simply became an untenable position."

There was no immediate response from the Vick camp. An after-hours phone message was left with his agent, Joel Segal, while unsuccessful attempts were made to reach his new attorney, Billy Martin, by phone and e-mail.

Although Reebok does not have a business relationship with Vick, the Massachusetts-based company serves as the official supplier of apparel and equipment to all 32 NFL teams. Through that deal, it holds the coveted rights to sell jerseys at the retail level.

"We just find the allegations very upsetting and very disturbing," Reebok spokeswoman Denise Kaigler said. "While this is just the beginning of the legal process and we know that it has to have time to run its course, we felt that making this decision now was important and the right things to do."

Reebok said it also was willing to take back any unsold Vick jerseys that are returned by retail outlets.

Kaigler said she already had received numerous e-mails in support of the decision. Even though numerous NFL players have run afoul of the law, this is the first time Reebok has stopped sales of an individual jersey.

"The number of e-mails and statements we're getting from consumers was pretty telling about how disturbing people find these allegations to be," Kaigler said.

Beckett Media reported on its Web site that Donruss dropped Vick's card at the behest of owner Ann Powell, whose five dogs accompany her to work every day and have virtually free reign inside the company's headquarters.

"If anybody who knows about the current Vick situation knows Donruss, they know that this is a decision we had to make because of Ann and her love of dogs," company spokesman Scott Prusha told the Web site. "This decision came straight from Ann."

Donruss had an autograph agreement with Vick, and much of the company's plans for the remainder of the year included the insertion of both autograph and memorabilia cards bearing the quarterback's picture.

Prusha said that "wasn't even a consideration. We met as a company and the idea was brought up to pull him. There was no opposition from anybody in the room."

Upper Deck to Remove Michael Vick From Future Card Collections

Source: http://www.bloomberg.com/apps/news?pid=20601079&sid=a7zNavNL7TSg&refer=home

July 28 (Bloomberg) -- Upper Deck Co., the maker of sports memorabilia that has bid $425 million for Topps Co., won't put cards featuring Atlanta Falcons quarterback Michael Vick in its collections in the future, joining Nike Inc. and Reebok International Ltd. in dropping him.

Michael Vick - NOT GUILTY?

2007-07-26T15:57:00.000-04:00

Michael Vick and his three associates today entered a plea of NOT GUILTY in Virginia Federal Court. There were 66 dogs on the property. 55 of them were pit bulls. The Feds were on the property to begin with to conduct a drug raid. Not guilty? Seriously? Were they too high to notice the dog fighting enterprise?

Follow the story at

http://abcnews.go.com/Sports/wireStory?id=3418093

or go to http://www.si.com/

Dog Fighting Indictments Against Vick

2007-07-18T14:32:00.000-04:00

Atlanta Falcons Quarterback Michael Vick has been indicted on Federal criminal charges for his involvement with dog fighting. The link below takes you to the full Sports Illustrated coverage.

The battle is not won! Although illegal in all 50 states, Dog Fighting continues in underground circles. Please, if you see something, say something. You can report animal cruelty by contacting the ASPCA at (212) 876-7700, ext. 4450 or at humanel@aspca.org. Full details are available at http://www.aspca.org/site/PageServer?pagename=cruelty_report.

image from http://www.badrap.org/rescue/

Full story

http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2007/football/nfl/07/17/dohrmann.vick/index.html

Shocking charges

Indictment against Vick describes unfathomable acts

Posted: Tuesday July 17, 2007 11:42PM; Updated: Wednesday July 18, 2007 11:19AM

During an April raid of Vick's property in Virginia, authorities seized 66 dogs and equipment commonly used in dog fighting.

AP

By George Dohrmann, SI.com

The indictment handed down Tuesday against Falcons quarterback Michael Vick and three others describes in detail how they procured a property in Virginia for the purpose of staging dogfights, bought dogs and then fought them there, and in several other states, over a 6-year period. With at least three cooperating witnesses providing the details, federal authorities compiled a detailed case that traces the birth and rise of Bad Newz Kennels.

But not a single line in the 18-page indictment will generate more rage toward Vick and the others charged -- Purnell A. Peace, Quanis L. Phillips and Tony Taylor --than a sentence near the end. It reads: "In or about April of 2007, Peace, Phillips and Vick executed approximately eight dogs that did not perform well in 'testing' sessions at 1915 Moonlight Road by various methods, including hanging, drowning and slamming at least one dog's body to the ground."

In interviews I conducted for an earlier story on the subculture of dogfighting and Vick's involvement, several experts described to me the process of "rolling"dogs. Owners take young dogs, usually puppies, and put them in an enclosed area and see how they react. They prod the dogs and urge them to get angry. If a dog shows aggression toward another dog, that's a positive. If a dog is timid, it is useless. Some fighters give away puppies that don't show the required "gameness."Other owners don't bother with the trouble of finding them a home and simply kill them.

Vick and his three associates, according to the indictment, fall in the latter category. Federal investigators allege Vick is a murderer of dogs who weren't willing to fight for his enjoyment. Even worse, his actions appear more sinister than most professional dogfighters.

"If you want to kill a dog, why exert the energy to slam him into the ground or drown him? Why not just shoot him, which is the most common method?" says John Goodwin, dogfighting expert for the Humane Society of the United States. "That is insane. These guys, if they did that, have serious problems."

Vick's problems would seem to be plentiful now that he has gone from a person of interest in local and federal investigations to one of four men charged in U.S.District Court in Richmond, Va., with conspiracy to commit interstate commerce in aid of unlawful activities and to sponsor a dog in an animal-fighting venture. On the Travel Act portion of the conspiracy charges, he faces a maximum of five years in prison and a $250,000 fine. The dogfighting charges carry a possible sentence of one year in prison, a $100,000 fine or both.

Still, even with the gravity of the crimes alleged, Vick's most serious problem would seem to be one of perception. If one believes the allegations against him,Vick is neither a novice dog fighter nor or a hobbyist who dipped his toe into the sport briefly. The indictment alleges Vick is a professional dog fighter who "sponsored" more than two dozen dogfights. He is not, as he previously said, someone who merely trusted the wrong people. Rather, he is the face of a bloodsport that the majority of NFL fans probably didn't know existed until the property he owned on Moonlight Road was raided in late April. And, now, he becomes the ultimate test for NFL commissioner Roger Goodell and his new discipline policy. (continued at Sports Illustrated si.com)

Humane Society of the United States Dog Fighting Fact Sheet

http://www.hsus.org/hsus_field/animal_fighting_the_final_round/dogfighting_fact_sheet/

Broadway Barks! July 14, 2007 3:30-6:30 PM

2007-07-11T09:18:00.000-04:00

A STAR-STUDDED DOG AND CAT ADOPT-A-THON IN SHUBERT ALLEY

SATURDAY, JULY 14
3:30 PM - 6:30 PM

BERNADETTE PETERS AND MARY TYLER MOORE AND SUCH BROADWAY FRIENDS AS:

Angela Lansbury, David Hyde Pierce, Harry Hamlin, Lisa Rinna, Christine Ebersole, Jo Anne Worley, Jerry Mathers, Jane Carr, John Lloyd Young, Cheyenne Jackson, Michael Cerveris, Debra Monk, Stephanie J. Block, Karen Ziemba, Audra McDonald, Christine Ebersole, Edward Hibbert, Marin Mazzie, Lea Michele, Mary Louise Wilson, Christian Hoff, Charlotte D'amboise, Mary Testa, Laura Belle Bundy with "BRUISER" and "RUFUS", the LEGALLY BLONDE DOGS and many more Broadway Stars To Appear In Special Benefit For New York City Animal Shelters And Adoption Agencies.

Bernadette Peters and Mary Tyler Moore will host the ninth annual BROADWAY BARKS!, a star-studded dog and cat adopt-a-thon benefiting New York City animal shelters and adoption agencies. The event, produced by Broadway Care/Equity Fights AIDS and sponsored by the ASPCA with additional sponsorship by the New York Times, Pedigree, and RCA Small Wonder will take place on Saturday, July 14th in Shubert Alley (located between 44th and 45th Streets, between Broadway and Eighth Avenue). The festivities begin at 3:30 p.m.; celebrity presentations of pets from citywide animal shelters will take place between 5:30 and 6:30 p.m. (In the event of rain, BROADWAY BARKS 9! will be rescheduled for Saturday, July 28 from 3:30p.m. - 6:30p.m.)

Back by "pawpular" demand, BROADWAY BARKS 9! will help many of New York City's shelter animals find permanent homes by informing New Yorkers about the plight of the thousands of "homeless" dogs and cats in the metropolitan area. Last year's BROADWAY BARKS! attracted an audience of more than 6,000 theater fans, pet owners, and animal lovers, and featured the participation of more than 24 animal shelters from the New York City area.

For more information, go to: http://www.broadwaybarks.com/barks_announcement.htm

We hope to see you there!

Dogs in Islam

2007-07-09T09:20:00.000-04:00

Recently, I spoke with a friend who practices the islamic faith. He mentioned that he had been told that dogs were unclean. So, I did a little research. There is a most enlightening article on this subject Lydia Kelly which can be accessed at http://www.quran-islam.org/119.html

Under any circumstances, it is important to respect a person's choice, but to insist upon a socially tolerant environment for yourself as well. Be kind to those who choose not to touch dogs, but ask that they love these creations of God as well. All life is sacred, as are all God's creations.

The article referenced above begins with the following editor's note:

Are Dogs Dirty, Prohibited Animals?

It is traditional among Muslims all over the world to regard the dog as a dirty animal that when touched would void your wudu (ablution) and give you nagasah (dirty impurity!)

Sadly, this concept comes from fabricated hadith which claims that the prophet ordered the killing of dogs and gave numerous hadith that prohibit the keeping of dogs except for hunting and guarding, due to their dirty status!

However, by studying the Quran we find no such claims. Nowhere in the Quran are dogs prohibited. Consequently, we must dismiss all these hadith that fabricate lies against the prophet.

1- God tells us in the Quran about the story of the dwellers of the Cave (Surah 18)......in verse 13 God tells us that they were good believers and that God guided them.
In verse 18 God tells us that they had their dog with them.
Now if dogs are prohibited and dirty, would God speak of those dwellers of the Cave (who had a dog) as good believers?

2- In 5:4 God tells us that it is OK to eat what the trained dogs catch (dogs are used in hunting)..........if dogs are dirty would God say that it is OK to eat what they catch with their mouths?

3- There is not ONE verse in the Quran where God says that dogs are dirty or that they are prohibited to keep.

4- Is it logical that God would create an animal to be man's best friend and serve him in many ways, and then prohibit such an animal?

Ask the vet

2007-07-02T09:14:00.000-04:00

There is a great deal of "free" advice out there, these days regarding pet care and alternative resources. I wanted to take a moment to be a little pragmatic.

If you don't know what it is, where it came from, and you can't seem to solve it on your own --- Ask your vet. Often a veterinarian's office will give you alternative remedies to try before you come into the office for a visit. Remember, they've seen it, treated it and in most cases, cured it.

If you don't have a veterinarian yet, call your local ASPCA or check on line at the American Animal Hospital Association for a veterinary office near you. (url below for animal hospital directory.)

http://www.healthypet.com/hospital_search.aspx

Rest In Peace Sweet Ricco

2007-06-27T16:16:00.000-04:00

Sometimes, something happens that is just too sad to bear. Sweet Niko and Ricco, who Stray from the Heart tried so hard, and so long to find a home together, had, it seemed finally found their place.

Last Wednesday, Ricco disappeared in Central Park. He was found dead a few days later by Park caretakers. It looked like he had been gone for a while. Niko has come back to Stray from the Heart now, so that we might find him a better home. And, I pray, they will be together in heaven. The sweet brothers are attached in a photo. Rest peacefully Ricco. We'll all see you there.

Love, Carol

Sunny needs a foster home!

2007-06-24T10:26:00.000-04:00

This beautiful girl is in a shelter in Dallas which is closing. We are working with them to find foster care for her until a forever home can be found. If you can help, please contact Toni at toni@strayfromtheheart.org or call 718-544-9175.

Sunny is the last of a litter of puppies that Joy, thelocal ACO, found in the front yard of one of the less"enlightened" residents of Lake Dallas. The youngpuppies were in a box out in the front yard with a sign saying "Free Puppies, Take One". Joy says that Sunny is an Anatolian mix, she saw themother. Sunny is only about 45 pounds at a year old, so she is much smaller than any Anatolian.

This beautiful young dog has lived in the shelterpractically all of her life! She will have been in the shelter one year on June 30th. Any dog that canlast a year in a shelter has got to be a great dog, and capable of enduring practically anything. She is a very nice girl. She has had her DHLPP vaccinations. We will get her spayed and her shots updated.

Mario (aka Milo) is found!

2007-06-11T09:01:00.000-04:00

Thanks to the dedication of his parents and the kind-hearted vigilence of the Medford, NJ Police Department, Mario has found his way home!

This is truly a story of community, hope, and never losing faith.

Congratulations to all!