Dogs rock - test - dogs rocks

Protect yourself and your pup – from eastern coyotes

It was an early morning in September, as usual I took my Chocolate Lab to the baseball field at the elementary school behind our house. This is a routine we had done all summer, I can stand in one place while she gets her much needed exercise. It had been getting darker and darker each morning, this was a concern of mine, I had just heard about a woman attacked by a man in East Boston while out walking her dog.

As I was about to let my pup off the leash, I heard the distinct sound of toenails on pavement. A coyote was trotting towards us. After realizing that this wasn’t someone’s loose dog coming to play, I waved the chuck-it-stick I had in my hand at it, and the coyote retreated slightly. Once my dog realized what was going on, she started viciously growling and barking, that’s when the coyote moved in. I continued to yell and wave the stick and eventually the coyote ran off, and my dog and I ran home.

According to the Commonwealth of Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife, the eastern coyote, is well established through-out most of Massachusetts except on Nantucket and Martha’s Vineyard. They are a medium sized predator (their matted hair makes them look larger than they actually are), and an opportunistic feeder. They are extremely adaptable to a wide range of habitats, and thrive in suburban/urban as well as rural areas.

To avoid any unnecessary confrontations with coyotes, be sure to take precautions to eliminate any food sources in your yard and neighborhood (i.e. put trash in a covered container).  Always walk your dog on a leash in the early morning and late at night. Coyotes see cats and small dogs as potential food, and larger dogs as competition. For the safety of your pets, keep them with you, a coyote is less likely to attack a dog that is attached to a human via leash.

Although free roaming pets are more likely to be killed by automobiles than by wild animals, coyotes do view them as easy prey. Coyotes can easily climb fences as well and occasionally attack animals that are in fenced in backyards late at night.

After becoming an “expert” on coyotes, I changed my morning routine until daylight saving time, knowing coyotes are nocturnal animals. I tried carrying a golf club around with me but found I was hitting my pup with it by accident rather than defending her. I now carry an intense flashlight that lets cars know where we are on the dark streets, and can also be used as a weapon if necessary.

To learn more about eastern coyotes and ways to protect you and your pup visit Masswildlife.

*Make sure your pets are up-to-date on their Rabies vaccination.

The Search and Rescue Dogs of 9/11 ten year later 9/11/11 only 12 canine heroes alive

It is hard to believe that 10 years have passed. These are the dogs that worked the Trade Center and Pentagon that are still alive but retired, they are heroes too, 

-Their eyes say everything you need to know about them.

 

True heroes of 9/11 still with us today...

 

 

Moxie, 13, from Winthrop, Massachusetts, arrived with her handler, Mark Aliberti, at the World Trade Center on the evening of September 11 and searched the site for eight days

 

Tara, 16, from Ipswich, Massachusetts, arrived at the World Trade Center on the night of the 11th. The dog and her handler Lee Prentiss were there for eight days

 

 

Kaiser, 12, pictured at home in Indianapolis, Indiana, was deployed to the World Trade Center on September 11 and searched tirelessly for people in the rubble

 

 

Bretagne and his owner Denise Corliss from Cypress, Texas, arrived at the site in New York on September 17, remaining there for ten days

 

Guinness, 15, from Highland, California, started work at the site with Sheila McKee on the morning of September 13 and was deployed at the site for 11 days

 

 

Merlyn and his handler Matt Claussen were deployed to Ground Zero on September 24, working the night shift for five days

 

Red, 11, from Annapolis, Maryland, went with Heather Roche to the Pentagon from September 16 until the 27 as part of the Bay Area Recovery Canines

 

    

 

 

Abigail, above, was deployed on the evening of September 17, searching for 10 days while Tuff arrived in New York at 11:00 pm on the day of attack to start working early the next day

 

 

 

Handler Julie Noyes and Hoke were deployed to the World Trade Center from their home in Denver on September 24 and searched for five days

 

Scout and another unknown dog lie among the rubble at Ground Zero, just two of nearly 100 search and rescue animals who helped to search for survivors

 

During the chaos of the 9/11 attacks, where almost 3,000 people died, nearly 100 loyal search and rescue dogs and their brave owners scoured Ground Zero for survivors.

Now, ten years on, just 12 of these heroic canines survive, and they have been commemorated in a touching series of portraits entitled 'Retrieved'.

The dogs worked tirelessly to search for anyone trapped alive in the rubble, along with countless emergency service workers and members of the public.

Traveling across nine states in the U.S. from Texas to Maryland, Dutch photographer Charlotte Dumas, 34, captured the remaining dogs in their twilight years in their homes where they still live with their handlers, a full decade on from 9/11.

Their stories have now been compiled in a book, called Retrieved, which is published on Friday, the tenth anniversary of the attacks.

Noted for her touching portraits of animals, especially dogs, Charlotte wanted 'Retrieved' to mark not only the anniversary of the September 2001 attacks, but also as recognition for some of the first responders and their dogs.

 

'I felt this was a turning point, especially for the dogs, who although not forgotten, are not as prominent as the human stories involved,' explained Charlotte, who splits her time between New York and Amsterdam.

'They speak to us as a different species and animals are greatly important for our sense of empathy and to put things into perspective.'

 

Charles Mayfield

New Hampshire Get-A-Way with dogs, Hiking, Waterfalls, Swimming, etc...

We are headed to the White Mountains and will spend time downhill Mt biking from the Summit of Loon Mtn. then move on To some mt biking with Shamrock and easy hiking, next day will be a more semi-extreme hiking at the edge of the Presidential Range going up.

Arethusa Falls and Frankenstein Cliff Trail

 

http://www.trails.com/activity.aspx?area=12187#trailid=HGN204-020&lat=44.14853&lon=-71.3665&zoom=11&m=terrain&a=HK 

It features a 600 ft waterfall - the tallest in New Hampshire and over places to swim; plus will be sure to take a dip in the Kancamagus River alone the Highway Rt as we Journey up Rt 93 to the Kancamagus Highway (watch for Moose Crossing,) and then back to Boston in 48 hrs.

Shamrock will surely enjoy this and be taking his supplement including 4 baby adprin (81mg) per day - You can give your dog 1/20lbs per day. As well as his usual Vitamin E, Omega 3,6,9, Glucosomine and Condrotine [sp]

 I am not sure WHO will have more fun. Feel free to join us...

 http://www.meetup.com/Boston-Dogs-Organization/calendar/15043870/  

 Have a safe and happy long weekend!

Dog on Dog aggression posturing...

This is considered a pretty intense challenge: it's like a rough push or a shove from one person to another. Depending on the personality of the dog who receives the paw, it can turn into a play session or in a worst-case scenario, a dogfight.  --- Tracie Hotchner

Middlesex Fells Meetup

Announcing a new Meetup for Boston Dogs Organization!

What: Meetup Twenty-Two, The Fells

When: Sunday, October 17, 2010 1:00 PM

Where: Middlesex Fells - Sheepfold Parking Area
259 Main St Fellsway W - Rt 28
Medford, MA 02155
(617) 727-1199

Hello All,

Back to one of our favorites - The Fells. Branching through four town directly Northwest of Boston, the Fells offers swimming, hiking, and an open field off leash area for dogs. Many of you have been there with us or on your own before. We do encourage carpooling for this due to the parking lot -- so if you can drive OR need/would like a ride, please post on the Message Board. Here is additional info. on the Middlesex Fells, http://www.mass.gov/d... Also attached is a trail map and below are directions for the parking lot I will be using but there are several to choose from. We want to meet by 1:15 in the FIELD as denoted on the map. If you have question give us a shout at info@boston-dogs.org or 617 419 5020.

Look forward to seeing you all there!

A reminder for newer members, please NO retractable leashes and bringing poop bag(s) and water as well as wearing running shoes or sneaker is a VERY good idea as well as possibly bug spray. We will also have rope and caribiners (sp.) for any "flight/runners" not yet trained. Please email me if you want to utilize this method of connecting to another dogs - Like my own, Shamrock or some of the senior group members.

WOOF!!

A new solution for anxious/aggressive dogs

Loud noises, unfamiliar places and separation anxiety are just a few of the causes of canine stress. An innovative new product is offering a medication-free solution. The Thundershirt is advertised to work by gently applying consistent pressure to a dog's torso in a way that is similar to the swaddling of a baby.

The product looks similar to a dog sweater from a distance. But unlike a sweater, it can be adjusted to help maintain appropriate pressure to your pet. The manufacturer of Thundershirt claims that the product is substantially effective on over 85 percent of dogs with anxiety issues. As this claim seems quite aggressive, the product's website has a section devoted to testimonials including many by vets who endorse it.

This was contributed to by several authors.

Who Ready to Be Featured in a Documentary?!

Two Sundays - Blue Hills - Be There!!

Very Special Meetup --- VIDEO FILMING for Animal Planet Footage at Blue Hills

check out our next meetup at Blue Hills where we will be filming!! 

 

http://www.meetup.com/Boston-Dogs-Organization/

Our Original Sponsors!

Barktoberfest

Help Us Raise Money for Medical Care, Spay/Neuter, Food, Medicine, Supplies and Adoption Assistance for Dogs In Town Pounds
Sunday, September 26, 2010
4-H Fairgrounds
Westford, Massachusetts
11:00 AM-3:00 PM
FREE ADMISSION - Rain or Shine!
Pavilions will keep us dry!
Join Us for PoundHounds' 10th Annual Family Fun Day and Dog Walk
“Walk Fur Dogs” – Please help raise money for needy dogs by downloading a registration form or sign up online. Easy group walk around the fairgrounds at 11:00 or on your own until 3:00.

Attention Animal Welfare Groups!
Raise funds for your group at our Walk Fur Dogs! Keep 70% of what you raise! Download the non-profit registration form or sign up online.


Wellness Pavilion! Get your doggies that much needed massage or Reiki energy work. Have your pup microchipped or their nails trimmed -- or just stop by to ask our special guest veterinarian a question. Is there something about your dog's behavior you've always wanted to know? Now's your chance! Ask the Trainer and finally get that answer!

Fun Food Court and GIANT Bake Sale! The Barktoberfest Bake Sale is a must-see, must-eat event. All proceeds go to help the dogs.


Fun Dog Contests!

Best Trick
Best Booty Wiggle
Oldest Dog
Dog that Looks Most Like Owner
Fastest Sit
Highest Jump
Note: Barktoberfest will be held rain or shine (hopefully shine). Dogs attending Barktoberfest must be leashed at all times. All activities subject to change.

Directions to the 4-H Fairgrounds:
Take Rt 495 to Exit 32, Boston Road. Turn south on Boston Road (that's left if coming off 495S and right if coming off 495N). Go .2 mile to the next light and turn left on Littleton Road/Rt 110. Go .5 miles and bear right onto South Chelmsford Road. After 1 mile you will see signs for parking, on right. Mapquest: Type in “South Chelmsford Road, Westford Mass” (not 4-H Fairgrounds).
MAP
Download a flyer and post around town!

All events subject to change.

PoundHounds is a non-profit dog rescue group and all donations are tax-deductible to the fullest extent allowed by law.

American Airlines kill 8 Dogs

http://www.cnn.com/2010/TRAVEL/08/04/illinois.airline.dog.deaths/index.html?iref=NS1

Well I'm not flying American if I can avoid it.
Less see if they actually step up and take responsibility here...

No More Homeless Pets® Best Friends’ 2010 Conference in Vegas, Baby

Different Tracks, Same Goal…No More Homeless Pets!

Dear Members and Friends,

The mission of No More Homeless Pets® is driven by people of many different passions and talents, all working toward the same goal … a time when every companion animal has a loving, forever home. This fall, seasoned animal-welfare professionals, new volunteers and those just wanting to find out what THEY can do to make a difference will gather together to share ideas, swap success stories and be inspired, challenged and refreshed at Best Friends Animal Society’s No More Homeless Pets Conference.

Along with an agenda filled with inspirational speakers and important information for EVERYONE, Best Friends is pleased to announce four distinct tracks that vary in range of specializations and interest, all leading to the same goal – No More Homeless Pets.
Whether you are new to animal welfare, a seasoned professional, a volunteer or a paid staff member, there is a track for you. Looking to fundraise and raise awareness to save animals’ lives? There is a track for you. Is animal care and rehabilitation your focus? There’s a track for you, too. Attend all the workshops in one track, or pick and choose from among the topics to create a track that is right for you.
Conference topics will cover what you need to know to save and improve the lives of animals. To see the most updated agenda for the conference, click here.
Speakers include experts from leading animal-welfare organizations around the country.
Don’t miss Best Friends’ 2010 No More Homeless Pets Conference!

URGENT - need 2 pups pulled from shelter in MA - going to euthanize for ringworm

Please don't let these pups die because of something SO TREATABLE!!
Cross-post & share, specially with those in or near Springfield, Mass??
THANKS!!

We sent 2 puppies to a shelter in Springfield,MA on July 7th. They are now 12 weeks old and we guessed them as min pin mixes.
They have ringworm and the shelter is going to euthanize them. Can anybody pull them? This needs done ASAP.
Chris - TCHSdoginfo@aol.com
Taylor County Humane Society
PO Box 4045
Grafton, WV 26354

BDO and other grassroots dog advocates unite to pass Logan's Law: Official Press Release

Massachusetts leads the way:
First state to ban cruel devocalization of dogs and cats.
• Landmark humane law takes effect July 21 at 12:01 a.m.
• Sponsor: unfunded, grassroots Coalition to Protect and Rescue Pets.
• Inspired new federal bill that could drive $1 million grant to MA.
Their vocal cords were cut to stifle their voices. Logan's Law will end this cruelty in Massachusetts.
(l-r) Logan was adopted by Gayle Fitzpatrick of Plymouth. Stella was adopted by Dottie Veneto of Quincy.
Demi was adopted by Cindy Martin of Taunton. Lady was adopted by Fran and Gene Nadeau of Pittsfield.
Fritz was purchased from a breeder by Kate Sanders-Pedersen of Wayland—unaware he had been subjected to devocalization surgery. All photos available as jpegs for reprint.
Who devocalizes? What do the dogs sound like?
Search Faces of Devocalization on www.youtube.com
What are the risks? Hear what veterinarians and shelters say.
Search Unkindest Cut Devocalization on www.youtube.com
PRESS CONTACT: Beth Birnbaum, 617-332-1483 (home/office); 617-697-3374 (cell)
From 16-year-old suburbanite Jordan Star (of Boston Dogs Organization) to 71-year-old Jordan Gallagher of Dorchester, a grassroots network of pet owners and others from every corner of the state passed an historic humane law this session without funding or even a formal organization. Logan’s Law will serve as
a model for other states and was the impetus for a new federal bill to prevent cruelty to animals.
What Logan’s Law does:
It prohibits devocalization of dogs and cats—cutting vocal cords to suppress or remove the voice. It allows vocal cord surgery to treat disease, injury or birth defects. Sponsored by:
Massachusetts residents. In 2008, the Coalition filed and passed the first state law banning an Coalition to Protect and Rescue Pets, an unfunded, all-volunteer network of
inhumane new business model that rents pets by the hour or day, like cars or DVDs.
• Filed January 2009, 59 legislative cosponsors
Logan’s Law, legislative history:
• Carried in the House by Rep. Bill Bowles, 617-722-2400 or 508-397-9941
• Carried in the Senate by Sen. Bruce Tarr, 617-722-1600 (originally by U.S. Sen. Scott Brown)
• Passed by the House, 155-1, March 3, 2010
• Passed by the Senate without opposition on a voice vote, April 1
• Signed into law April 22
Inspired new federal legislation:
HR 5422 would make states with laws banning devocalization of dogs and cats eligible for grants of up to $1 million for humane education and care of homeless animals. Sponsor: Congressman C.A. Dutch Ruppersberger, D-MD, 2d District, 202-225-3061.
WHO IS LOGAN ANYWAY?
A proud show dog, devocalized and dumped: Logan’s breeder had her dogs devocalized to
run her business in a quiet residential neighborhood; she gave him up when he stopped winning ribbons. His rescuer, Gayle Fitzpatrick, founder, Friends of the Plymouth Pound, says her adopted pet rasped, retched and gagged relentlessly as a result of devocalization till the day he died.
“
Logan did nothing to deserve this," says Fitzpatrick. "His vocal cords were cut for one
reason only: his breeder’s greed.
"
WHY WOULD BREEDERS DEVOCALIZE?
Some breeders devocalize to keep many dogs without complaints from authorities; others like to profit from but not hear their own animals,
explains Leslie Burg, a former Newton alderman and a core member of Coalition to Protect and Rescue Pets. Who else would do this to a helpless animal?
keep dogs quiet in the ring and in transit between shows. Sled dog hobbyists, because dogs typically bark more in groups—and Huskies are a barky breed. Some dog fighters, animal hoarders and biotech labs that test on dogs and cats also devocalize. According to Burg: Show dog exhibitors, to
“Of the hundreds of devocalized dogs—and a few cats—we’ve discovered in Massachusetts
in a year of campaigning for Logan’s Law, only a handful were devocalized by pet owners.
Sadly, not all realized the pain and suffering their pets would experience,” Burg says. “As
with declawing, some vets don’t explain risks and potential complications of devocalization.”
KEEPING CRUELTY UNDER THE RADAR
Few who order or perform devocalization voluntarily disclose it, because it is widely considered inhumane, says Burg, adding that it is easy to hide. “Unlike docked tails or cropped ears, cut
vocal cords aren’t visible, so people assume these animals have laryngitis. Who’d imagine someone had an animal's vocal cords cut to deal with barking or meowing? It’s hard to fathom."
SHELTERS, VETERINARIANS TESTIFY:
SERIOUS RISKS, NO BENEFIT FOR ANIMALS—NOT EVEN A SECURE HOME
More than 50 pieces of testimony submitted to the legislature by shelter executives, prominent veterinarians and animal behavior experts concurred: Cutting an animal’s vocal cords by any means for any purpose except to treat disease, injury or birth defects, as allowed by Logan’s Law, is an act of cruelty. Veterinarians testified
: No matter how the vocal cords are cut or how experienced the vet, animals face serious, even life-threatening risks. They can be compromised for life or die by choking, aspiration pneumonia, heat stroke or surgical complications. (See Expert Perspectives) Shelter execs testified
: Devocalized animals are abandoned like any other. Surgically altering animals to manage behavior—whether devocalization or declawing—does not keep them out of shelters. (See Shelter Perspectives)
"A dog’s or cat’s best chance is with an owner who chooses, houses, trains and cares
for pets responsibly and humanely—and for whom the animal is a companion, not a profit center," according to Friends of the Plymouth Pound's Gayle Fitzpatrick, a rescue volunteer for 30 years.
“Some breeds are more vocal than others, and most vocalize more in groups. Responsible people don’t run breeding operations or put naturally barky breeds where noise is not tolerated.
Fitzpatrick adds: “Frequent vocalization is a often distress call; the animal is bored, lonely, anxious or in physical discomfort. Vocal cord surgery doesn’t change the distress. It just makes it easy for the owner to ignore until it escalates. What do you think happens to the devocalized pet then—or when he’s no longer profitable for his breeder?
”
Logan's Law was sponsored by
Coalition to Protect and Rescue Pets,
an unfunded, all-volunteer network of Massachusetts
pet owners and other concerned individuals.
It was endorsed by
Animal Law Coalition
Boston Dogs Organization
Humane Society Veterinary Medical Association and
more than 200 Massachusetts veterinarians
New England Federation of Humane Societies
and
Animal Umbrella, Revere Baypath Humane Society, Hopkinton Berkshire Humane Society, Pittsfield Billerica Cat Care Coalition, Billerica Boston Dog Rescue, Boston Buddy Dog Humane Society, Sudbury Dakin Pioneer Valley Humane Society, Springfield Dog Orphans, Douglas Forever Paws Animal Shelter, Fall River Friends of the Plymouth Pound, Plymouth Ipswich Humane Group, Ipswich Kitty Connection, Medford Marblehead Animal Shelter, Marblehead MassPAWS, Winthrop
Melrose Humane Society, Melrose MetroWest Humane Society, Ashland MSPCA-Angell, Boston New England Animal Rescue, Middleboro New England Society for Abandoned Animals, Osterville Norfolk County Humane Society, Canton Northeast Animal Shelter, Salem Poodle Rescue of New England, Somerville Save A Dog, Sudbury South Shore Humane Society, Braintree Standish Humane Society, Duxbury Sterling Animal Shelter, Sterling Tiny Tigers Feline Rescue, Groton Underdog ResQ, Boston Worcester Animal Rescue League, Worcester
Consulting Experts
● Laura Allen, Esq., Executive Director, Animal Law Coalition, 607-269-0018
● Dr. Joel M. Woolfson, DVM, DACVS, Board-Certified Veterinary Surgeon, 617-549-5991 ● Dr. Nicholas Dodman, DVA, DACVB, DACVA, Board-Certified Veterinary Behaviorist and
Anesthesiologist, 508-887-4640, 508-887-4665 ● Dr. Barbara Hodges, DVM, MBA, Humane Society Veterinary Medical Association ● Pat Miller, CDBC, CPDT; Past President, Association of Pet Dog Trainers

Opposition:
Two powerful lobbies that profit from devocalization opposed Logan’s Law: Mass. Veterinary Medical Association, with members who perform this surgery to suppress an animal’s voice, and dog breeders (AKC and Mass. Federation of Dog Clubs), who order it to facilitate their businesses.
It is a credit to Beacon Hill that lawmakers overwhelmingly passed Logan’s Law based
on the facts of devocalization—and the majority voice of ordinary citizens, who consider medically unnecessary vocal cord surgery on a dog or cat no less than an act of cruelty.

We need a Foster Home for a few weeks in Metro Boston / North Shore for an adorable rescue

FOSTER HOME NEEDED ASAP:

Maxx is a 12-year-old pure-bred Shih Tzu in need of a foster home until about the end of August. He has had a difficult life and has someone who has pledged to take him permanently, as soon as he moves to a new location that will allow dogs (approx. late August).

He was adopted in 2008 by a Woburn retirement community as its "house" dog and was doing very well there, very popular with the residents and visitors. In February of this year, however, the community decided that it had no staff member(s) who were willing to serve as Maxx's dedicated caregiver to ensure he had his daily walks, consistent feeding time, etc.



Maxx is probably the most gentle dog anyone could meet. He is good with people, other animals, etc. and is completely non-aggressive (definitely not an Alpha dog). When he was originally adopted in 2008, the shelter staff said that his original owners neglected him significantly, to the point where Maxx was very reclusive and completely ungroomed. His coat was so matted and tangled that the staff said he was unable to see out of his eyes because of the clumped hair obstructing them. The owners said that, because their kids were now grown, they didn't want to take care of the dog anymore, so they felt the shelter was a better place for him.

One of the first things the retirement community did for Maxx was to have a complete veterinary check-up for him, as well as extensive dental work to remove several fully rotted teeth that were causing him constant pain, and to clean the remaining teeth. He received a very short haircut, which he was ecstatic about, and began eating Science Diet L/D to (I will pay for food) help him keep his liver enzyme count controlled. He remains on this diet today. He has received regular veterinary visits (at Arlington Animal Clinic with Dr. Morrison) and is current on all shots (he had three-year boosters on rabies and tetanus in 2009). He is about eight pounds overweight (weighing 28lbs) but is increasing his daily exercise and likes to sit in shady grass for an hour or two on end. Notwithstanding all this, he loves to be rubbed and petted and can lie down to receive that attention for hours. He is essentially a non-barking dog.

n live out the rest of his days. I'm wanting to provide that for him, but I need some help in the interim while I'm waiting to move to a house where I can take him with me. Since I live in Gloucester, if anyone is available in the North Shore / Metro Boston / Metro West area, I am very willing to visit him regularly and help out with his care, pay for all his food/treats/etc as well as walking, play time. I'm looking for a place for him very soon (this week, if possible,) and will likely be a 6 week stay until I move out of my non-dog friendly community.

My email address is robert.nigro@us.army.mil

Thanks to all for any consideration in helping find Maxx a temporary home - Woof - Rob

CONTACT INFO FOR THOSE RESPONSIBLE FOR DESTROYING ADOPTABLE DOGS in NY

WHERE TO CONTACT THE RESPONSIBLE PARTIES


For Mayor Michael Bloomberg’s Adminstration, Deputy Mayors, and Department heads, go to
the NYC.gov website. To see elected officials who represent you, go to League of Women Voters

City Hall
Michael R. Bloomberg
Mayor
City Hall, New York, NY 10007
Tel: (212) 788-3000, Mayor's Action Line (212) 788-9600
mbloomberg@cityhall.nyc.gov

Linda Gibbs
Deputy Mayor for Health and Human Services
City Hall
New York, NY 10007
Tel: 212 788-3000
Fax 212 788 2460


Michael Cardozo, Esq.
NYC Corporation Counsel - the Mayor's chief lawyer
NYC Department of Law
59 Maiden Lane, 28th floor, New York, NY 10038
Tel: (212) 232-5274




Department of Health and Mental Hygiene

Thomas Farley, M.D.
(succeeded Dr. Thomas Frieden in September 2009)
Commissioner, NYC Department of Health & Mental Hygiene
125 Worth Street, 3rd floor, New York, NY 10013
Tel: (212) 788-5261, Fax: (212) 964-0472
TFarley@health.nyc.gov


Alan Goldberg
Deputy Commissioner for Environmental Services
125 Worth Street, New York, NY 10013
Tel: 212-788-4645


Edgar R. Butts, Ph.D., M.B.A.
Assistant Commissioner, Veterinary and Pest Control Services
ebutts@health.nyc.gov


Norma S. Torres
Director, Veterinary Public Health Services
ntorres3@health.nyc.gov


Inspector Zicherman
DOH, Veterinary Public Health Services
Tel:- 212-676-2115


City Council

Christine Quinn
Speaker New York City Council
City Hall, New York, NY 10007
http://council.nyc.gov/d3/html/members/home.shtml


There are two committees who should be contacted: Health and Contracts



Darlene Mealy
Chair, New York City Council Contracts Committee
1757 Union Street, 2nd Floor
Brooklyn, NY 11213250 Broadway, Room 1846, NY, NY 10007
darlene.mealy@council.nyc.gov



In 1997, Kathryn Freed headed the Contracts Committee and fought the DOH to investigate the
AC&C's operations under its contract with the DOH. The report was scathing, as you can
surmise from its title: "Dying for Homes." Now is the perfect time for the Contracts Committee
to commence a new investigation of the AC&C's operations. The DOH is in the process of
dictating a new 5-year contract with the AC&C. It is a contract predicated on an insufficient
budget. Also, the DOH is now searching for yet another Executive Director for the AC&C. (This
new person will be the 6th Executive Director appointed during the Bloomberg administration,
and that's not counting two "interim" EDs, the position currently headed by Risa Weinstock.)



Maria Del Carmen Arroyo
Chair, Health Committee
arroyo@council.nyc.ny.us


Councilperson Arroyo represents a Bronx district. Remember, the Bronx still doesn't have a full
service animal shelter. In 2002, Christine Quinn (then head of the Health Committee) granted
Mayor Bloomberg an extension until 2006 to create full service shelters in the Bronx and
Queens. Quinn never convened an oversight committee to investigate why the DOH missed
that deadline. Arroyo, who scores a high rating on the New York League of Humane Voters'
"Humane Scorecard," is a key person to contact.


Bill De Blasio,Public Advocate
He is a friend of animals.
1 Centre Street, 15th Floor
New York, NY 10007
General inquiries: (212) 669-7200
Ombudsman services: (212) 669-7250
Fax: (212) 669-4701
deblasio@council.nyc.ny.us

FROM MR. DE BLASIO'S WEBSITE:

The job of the Public Advocate is, most fundamentally, that of a watchdog, ensuring that all New
Yorkers receive the City services they deserve and have a voice in shaping the policies of their
government. As an ex-officio member of all Council committees with the power to introduce
legislation, the Public Advocate is an important participant in the legislative process. Through
the office's powers of appointment, the Public Advocate also influences City planning, the
budget process, and the management of retirement funds.



AC&C management

Julie Bank Executive Director,
Animal Care and Control, Inc.
11 Park Place, 8th floor, New York, NY 10007
Tel: (212) 442-2059, Fax: (212) 442-2066
JBank@nycacc.org

Richard Gentles
AC&C Director of Operations
Animal Care and Control, Inc.
11 Park Place, 8th floor, New York, NY 10007
Tel: (212) 442-2057, Fax: (212) 442-2066
RGentles@nycacc.org


The AC&C Board of Directors

The "ex-officio" board members from the City are:

THOMAS FARLEY, M.D
Commissioner
NYC Department of Health and Mental Hygiene
Chairman of the AC&C Board of Directors
125 Worth Street, 3rd floor, New York, NY 10013
Tel: (212) 295-5347 Fax: (212) 295-5426
e-mail: tfarley@health.nyc.gov
Bloomberg appointed Farley to succeed former Commissioner Frieden (who accepted the
position as head of the Center for Disease Control). Just as his predecessor, Farley is the
Chairman of the ACC Board of Directors. As one of his first acts, he approved the DOH’s
appeal from a court decision ordering it to create full service shelters in the Bronx and Queens.

Adrian Benepe
Commissioner
NYC Department of Parks & Recreation
The Arsenal, Central Park, 830 5th Avenue, New York, NY 10021
Tel: 800 201-Park; Dial 311 for all Parks & Recreation Information
Benepe occasionally attended board meetings, but for the past several years, has sent a
designee. Plus - helps facilitate access to parks for adoption events. Minus - affable personality
but demonstrates little or no interest in improving the plight of shelter animals. To e-mail
Commissioner Benepe, go to http://www.nyc.gov/html/mail/html/maildpr.html [You’re limited to
150 words or less, so you may have to divide your message into 2 or 3 messages to him. Or
you can send him a letter.]

Lt. THOMAS J. SWANSON
Representative for NYPD Community Affairs.
We have no information about Swanson, nor does the AC&C provide any.
E-Mail: thomas.swanson@nypd.org

The "independent" board members:

JAY KUHLMAN, DVM
Gramercy Animal Hospital
37 East 19th Street
New York, NY 10003
Tel. 212-477-4080; fax (212) 254-7497
sjkuhlman@aol.com
A veterinarian. Genuinely cares about the plight of shelter animals but has never publicly
protested the DOH’s stewardship of the ACC or the actions and inaction of his fellow board
members.

John M.B. O'Connor
212-363-0868
joc@jocnewyork.com
Former partner at JP Morgan Partners and now CEO of J.H. Whitney Investment Management
in Manhattan. Has is closely allied himself with the Health Commissioner. Was ACC's treasurer
for four years. A blood sport hunter and ACC's most hostile board member to animal welfare
issues. His concern is not to embarrass “his friend,” Mayor Bloomberg.

BRUCE DONIGER
Appointed in Oct 2004. President and CEO of The J.E. & Z.B Butler Foundation, a nonprofit that
benefits at-risk youth and individuals with special needs. AC&C's Treasurer.
E-Mail: bbdoniger@yahoo.com

PATRICK NOLAN
Appointed in March 2007 to fill a nine-month vacancy and now apparently a permanent member
of the Board. A VP of marketing at Penguin Group publishing in Manhattan. He remains an
unknown entity. His office e-mail: Patrick.Nolan@us.penguingroup.com


AC&C Executive Offices, 11 Park Place, Suite 805, NY, NY 10007

Pitbull Mix Needs Rescue in MA

Horatio is a 1 1/2 year old pitbull x that weighs about 50lbs. He is at
North Shore Animal Hospital in Lynn and has been there for almost 2 months.
He has become a staff favorite and they are looking for a rescue group or
shelter with an adoption program to take him in. Horatio is good with other
dogs of all sizes and fine with small children he has met. Horatio needs a
cat free home. He is pretty good on a leash for likely having no formal
training, very food motivated and wants to please. Horatio is active and
playful but not high energy and settles easily. Horatio has had a
behavioral evaluation and was fine with all handling and no resource
guarding or food aggression was present.

He is neutered, HW tested, and UTD on vaccines.

If anyone can help this dog out please contact Michelle Welch directly at
NSAH in Lynn.

NYC - Diana Needs a Miracle!

new york..metro area COURTESY POST NY CACC POOR DIANA NEEDS A MIRACLE!! SHE HAS HAD THE MISFORTUNE OF GETTING KENNEL COUGH (A COLD!!! ) AT THE CITY SHELTER..NOW IT'S COSTING HER HER LIFE!! WHICH IS SO UNFAIR..SHE IS ONLY 3 YEARS OLD AND WEIGHS 48 LBS.SHE IS GREAT WITH OTHER DOGS.AND SHE IS GREAT WITH EVERYBODY.SHE IS ONE OF THOSE SWEET SOULS WITH THOSE EYES THAT LOOK AT YOU AS IF YOU ARE THE CENTER OF HER UNIVERSE.SHE DESERVES TO LIVE.PLEASE CONTACT SAVETHISDOG@GMAIL.COM PLEASE DONT HESITATE THE CACC ALREADY KILLED OVER 20 DOGS JUST LIKE HER THIS PAST WEEK..WE CANNOT LET HER BE ANOTHER STATISTIC.PLEASE HELP HER!!

Urgent Rescue Needed - Brooklyn ACC - Franklyn A864853

Franklyn A864853 – 11 months old- 34 pounds- stray- URI since 7/8

A Volunteer Wrote: Feeling sure that the other objects of my affection can't read this, I'm going to come out and say it: I think Franklin may be the cutest dog I have ever met. For sure, in the top 100 (I've met a lot of dogs). Here is Franklin: As a friend and I stood outside chatting, my friend suddenly looked down and burst into laughter. The 10 month old funny boy, tired of the hold up, had thrown himself down on the ground belly up and taken the opportunity to sunbathe, tongue hanging out, tummy catching the breeze on a hot summer afternoon. This 34 pound pup came in as a stray but he appears housetrained--he squats once and calls it a day--and he is a joy on the leash. With his big floppy ears, his goofy grin, and his absolute delight in all around him, people actually stop and turn around on the street to watch him dance on by. This dog is heaven on earth, and someone out there is going to be so very lucky to get a taste of that while still on terra firma, thanks to having Franklin in your life.

Look 1 :Eyes averted with soft body ,low tail wagging and ears back
Sensitivity 1 :Leans in to the assessor with soft body ,low tail wagging and ears back
Tag 1 :Assumes play position and joins the game
Squeeze 1 :Gently pulls paw away
Squeeze 2 1 :Gently pulls paw away
Food 2 :Dog follows the dish with soft body and wagging tail,lifts head after a bit of pressure from hand to cheek
Toy 1 :Settles close to chew,keeps a firm grip while soft in body
Rawhide 1 :No interest
Dog to dog 2:Approaches the helper dog by rushing in with soft body ,head high and ears forward

Brooklyn Shelter
2336 Linden Blvd
8am - 8pm seven days: (718) 272-7206
For more information about this animal, call:
Animal Care and Control of New York City - Brooklyn at (212) 788-4000
or 718 272-7201, press 0 when the message starts
Please help this boy – HE is the true meaning of RESCUE!!

One of Oldest and Best Partners...Dog Town

A number of our members have gotten Dogs from Best Friends Animal Sanctuary - to rescue a dog, volunteer for several weeks in Utah, and most of the time BOTH. Thank you to all of you!! Boston Dogs Organization donates excess funds to them when able to including saving Meryl, a Pitbull from Michael Vick's fitting ring. She is now fully recovered.



The founder of Best Friends is a friend of BDO and has called to check in on us! Its great. You can see Dog Town on Nat Geo on Friday evenings that chronically life at dog town trough the eyes of staff and dogs...

Dog Ear Infections adnd Home Remedies...

Dogs that have furry, floppy ears are prone to ear infections as well as Retrievers and dogs in general, especially in summer when heat encourages yeasty growth. For dogs with long ear fur, it does not hurt at all if you gently turn the ear inside out and tie or rubber-band the ears loosely back behind the head. Be sure the rubber-band does not pull the ears and is wrapped only around the furry tips, never pinching the skin of the flap. Opening up the ears to fresh air for an hour or so a day greatly assists in preventing ear infections in the summertime. 

You can also use a paper towel or toilet paper and insert gently in and around the ear canal - with limited pressure. Brown wax is normal - another color is a cause for concern. If you have any concerns please contact us or your vet.
-Helen Fazio contributed to this Post.


Woof!

Happy 4th to all Americans and their Dogs

Remember its very hot out and bring water for your dog and be careful of them walking on pavement, concrete, sand that can burn their paws; dogs have a higher pain thresh hold (especially larger breeds and are likely not to 'tell' they are hurt or in pain before damage is done!)

Here is a picture one of and the first official US flag named the Continental Colors or the Grand Union. Dogs love showing off the Patriotism (not just the football team!) with red, white, and blue collars, leashes, hanker-chiefs, etc. Remember is you are headed anywhere crowded we recommend NOT having retractable leashes. The can hurt both dogs and humans. Have a safe an happy Independence Day!! Thank you to our military past and present and all those that have and continue to make this country great; including our canine military, police, search & rescue, working, service, and therapy dogs. If you want to volunteer with Boston Dogs Organization, contact us!

Woof!

Medford:1 year old Male Pit Bull in need

Suppose to be a wonderfu dog. Can anyone help?

Please forward to friends and family:

Someone bred some puppies last year, and placed them all in good homes. It turns out that one of the people that adopted a puppy are no longer able care for the dog. The dog is a male pit bull, 95 pounds, 1/2 blue nose and half American. He is beautiful dog, extremely well trained, very gentle, excellent with children and great with other dogs. If you, are a responsible, and financially stable individual that wants to provide a loving home for this dog or know someone that might be interested, kindly contact Jen Roy x18435 or 617.599.9232. The dog is located in Medford, Ma. Unfortunately, this sweet dog will be put down Wednesday, if he has not been found a new home : (
*Puppy is one year old
*Puppy is not neutered.
*Pupper does have all papers.
*Puppy is a male.
*Puppy is located in Medford, Mass.

Bloodhound to be PTS-Western,MA

FREE Purebread 4 y/o Bloodhound (Easthampton)

Meet Barney. He was adopted about 2 months ago. Previous owner said hewas 4, but the vet says he is about 2 and he does still look a bit puppyish. He simply needs somebody to take the time/money to get himtrained. He is becoming way too much to handle at the moment. He has separation issues and also got out and got into a scuffle with asmaller dog. Starting to have issue with people now that he's getting settled into the house as well. As stated before: NEEDS TRAINING. Very good with cats though. Nuetered and up to date on all shots. Can't find a shelter to take him since you need to live in the area they serve, so if he is not adopted by the end of the week he will need to be put down. Email or call 413-552-6368.

Location: Easthampton

Audrey Illhardt
Independent Cat Rescue
Small Dog Rescuer
Gardner, MA.

Temp housing Needed for 12-year old Shih Tzu

If anyone can help w/ this dog, please contact me or Maxx directly.
He is really trying to do right by this dog. Sounds like an easy keep. Also he is willing to pay something for the housing(just can't be market rate) but will do what is needed. He just doesn't want this dog to go to a kennel for 1-2 months.
Thank you,
mary lou
maryloumaria@yahoo.com

Maxx is a 12-year-old pure-bred Shih Tzu. He was left at Cape Ann Animal Shelter in June 2008, by owners who said that they no longer wanted him because their kids were grown and out of the house. The shelter staff said that the dog was significantly neglected, and that his hair was so matted, that he literally could not see. He was at the shelter for a while, and as an older dog was not immediately adopted. At the time, I was working at a retirement community in Woburn, and we had wanted to bring in a house dog to be loved by the residents. The community adopted Maxx, and he was a big hit. I left that job a little more than a year ago to focus more on my Army work. This past February, while I was on Army duty in Florida, I received an email from the retirement community that no one wanted to assume primary responsibility for Maxx any longer, and that he was going to be returned to the shelter. I intervened and found him a foster home in
Woburn with a woman I went to high school with. She was terrific with Maxx and had him for four months, but had to vacate her apartment recently. I picked up Maxx and brought him to a friend's house in Manchester, but they already have a couple of dogs and I didn't want to impose on them indefinitely.

My intent is that I will bring Maxx to come live with me as soon as I move into a new house, which will hopefully be by the end of this summer. Currently, my condo will not allow dogs on-site. If I can find Maxx a temporary home for one or two months in the Cape Ann area, I will be more than willing to visit him daily, take him out for several hours and walk him, feed, him, etc., as well as provide all food and supplies. He is current on all vaccinations and has had regular veterinary visits (Arlington Animal Clinic).

About Maxx: EXTREMELY gentle, non-barking, non-shedding (he has hair vs. fur, so no shedding whatsoever), non-aggressive, compatible with other dogs, cats, children, adults, etc. At this point in his life, he seems just to want a place to sleep, where someone will feed him and love him, and let him out regularly. He is honestly a very humble creature.

I can be reached at 781-608-0232, or by email at robert.nigro@us.army.mil. My goal is to keep Maxx away from any shelter, but I really need some assistance for the next couple of months.

Many thanks,
Rob

Please help BDO defer operating costs to continue with our Mission Statement.

Hydration and Dog Physiology

Hydrate!  Dogs do not have sweat glands like people and the only way they can cool themselves is via their tongue by panting...if your dog is panting heavily, especially if s/he is not running around, spray the down with cool water, take them for a swim, and get them some water to drink!!

Also if their eyes get blood-shot at all - time to do the same as above...

Meetup Today in the South End a 1pm

see http://www.meetup.com/Boston-Dogs-Organization/ sign up, respond, and come have a blast!!

I was thinking of having a fund raiser to rescue this MOST unique mix...

Its OK to let you dog sniff other dogs - and totally natural and important to socialization

What It Means When Your Dog from Sniffs Down There by Kelly Modzelewski, Dog and Cat Writer

Some dogs are so affectionate that they're not content with licking your face. They also want to share your more private smells which can prove embarrassing for you or an unsuspecting visitor. Men and women alike are victims of this socially awkward behavior. Dogs do this out of a natural instinct to learn about this person (in the same way they sniff each others behinds) and out of habit. Keep in mind that dogs have a very strong sense of smell so they can learn a lot about a person through sniffing. This strong sense of smell also leads to another reason canines might sniff that private area - because some dogs can actually sense prostrate cancer. They can detect a problem just sniffing people but, according to a recent study, can actually pick up the scent of chemicals associated with early prostrate cancer in urine.

Please Sign Petition for More Off Leash priveldges at the Fells

Please sign a petition for legal options for off-leash recreation at the Sheepfold and on the trails of the Middlesex Fells Reservation:

http://www.thepetitionsite.com/1/legal-off-leash-dogs-in-the-Middlesex-Fells

Legal options for off-leash recreation at Middlesex Fells Reservation are needed sooner rather than later!

The Middlesex Fells Reservation, a property located in Malden, Medford, Melrose, Stoneham and Winchester that is managed by the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR). Currently dogs are required to be on leash at the Fells. The petition is sponsored by the Fells Dog Owner Group (www.fellsdog.org).

Landmark 250th Fan member reached and Hiring a dog Trainer!! Will Train!

Thank you for all the support as we has reached and surpassed 250 Fans and 150 Meetup members!!!

WOOF WOOOF

Look for new BDO Partners with special offers for members coming online this month!!

Illness -- Back on Track

Boston Dogs Organization, I personally experienced a medical emergency, but are happy to announce I have rebounded and BDO and the Meetup group are back running as normal including training, advocacy, rescue intervention and placement assistance and Meetup TWELVE scheduled for next Sunday (location TBD). Please give us an email or call with any questions or scheduling information.

On a personal note; we spent the afternoon and evening yesterday with Stonewall at the animal hospital having treated a tear in his ear. He was there from about 3pm until midnight and came home groggy from being sedated and unfortunately has to wear the "lamp shade" for approximately a week.  He will be just fine.

Best to everyone and apologies for the interruptions. Woof!

Let Nashville's Misfortune Serve As A Reminder

Everyone has been watching the terrible footage of the flooding in Nashville and has heard that many families have been displaced either temporarily or permanently. Many pets have been recovered by rescuers.

To increase the chances of recovering your pets, make sure they are comfortable being in a crate so that they can be transported safely. Ask your trainer to help you with crate training. Here are some other tips for recovering your lost pet.

A microchip can be placed just under the skin in your pet at their next vet visit. Have an ID tag attached to your pet crate. Include your name and phone numbers and your veterinarian's information on the tag. Always keep an identification tag on your pet that does not include their name. Keep your city or town animal license up to date. Keep a clear, full-body photo of your pet on hand. Make note of any special markings.

If your pet should get loose and you are looking for him or her, call every animal shelter within a 50 mile radius and then go to each one with a photo. Don't rely on a phone call. When you go to the shelter, leave a photo with your contact information written with a sharpie on the back. Leave a photo of your pet with all your local stores, salons, pharmacies, laundromats and neighbors. Don't just put them on telephone poles where they will get rained on.

The Top 10 Pet Poisons of 2009

The Top 10 Pet Poisons of 2009
• Human Medications
• Insecticides
• People Food
• Plants
• Veterinary Medications
• Rodenticides
• Household Cleaners
• Heavy Metals
• Garden products
• Chemical Hazards
For more information, visit: http://www.aspca.org/petcare/poison-control/top-10-pet-poisons-of-the-year.html

Massachusetts Legislation for Dogs

H.B. 4285 - Protect Pets From Antifreeze Poisoning in Massachusetts…
A Plea from Mike Markarian, President of the Humane Society Legislative Fund

Hundreds of children and thousands of animals - including pets and endangered species - are accidentally poisoned each year from sweet-tasting but toxic antifreeze and engine coolant. Fortunately, the Massachusetts senate is considering a bill, H.B. 4285, that would require manufacturers to add a bittering agent to antifreeze and coolant sold in the state, so animals and children are no longer attracted to the deadly substance.

TAKE ACTION Please make a brief, polite phone call to your state senator to urge support for H.B. 4285.

Please remember to be polite and professional, and leave your name and address so it is clear that you are a constituent. You can say:

"Hello, my name is [your name] and I am calling from [your town]. As a constituent, I would like to urge Senator [senator's name] to support H.B. 4285 to prevent antifreeze poisoning. Thank you."

After calling, please send a follow-up email to your senator in support of this legislation. Thank you for all you do for animals!