Posts tagged "PetAdoption"

Why is it that some shelter animals have dozens of people clamoring to adopt them, while others are disregarded, leaving these dogs and cats to languish in shelters, often for months at a time? "Sometimes, it's hard to distinguish one feature that makes them less adoptable or why they are perpetually passed over," Betsy Saul, co-founder of Petfinder.com, tells Paw Nation. Other times, it's obvious.

Why Some Pets Are Left Behind at Shelters
Adoptable pets that are blind, deaf or otherwise have "special needs" are often hard to place, states Petfinder.com. So are pets that are older, shy, have dark fur, are too large or can't live in a home with other animals. Then there is breed prejudice, with pit bulls being the most common type of dog being put down in shelters.

A troubling survey by Petfinder.com -- which has over 13,000 shelters and rescue groups listing adoptable pets on its website -- prompted the organization to proclaim September 19–25 to be "Adopt-a-Less-Adoptable-Pet Week."

Nearly all of the shelters and rescue groups that Petfinder surveyed reported having "extreme difficulty" finding homes for some of their animals. More alarming, 33 percent of Petfinder.com members had pets listed on Petfinder.com for one to two years. Another 27 percent have had pets listed for even longer than two years. By bringing attention to the plight of these overlooked animals, Petfinder hopes to find permanent homes for pets considered less desirable.

Reasons to consider adopting a "less adoptable" pet
- Older dogs have already gone through the hyperactive puppy or kitten stage and have fully formed personalities, which means you know what you're getting.

- Many of them are already housebroken or know how to walk on a leash.

- A deaf dog may be less likely to bark at your loud neighbors.

Jesse James, owner of West Coast Choppers and ex-husband of Sandra Bullock, has added a new member to his family: a French bulldog named Pierre, reports Star Magazine. The dog was a gift to his daughter Chandler.

James is known to be a devoted dog owner. Last year, when his pit-bull puppy named CinnaBun went missing, he offered a $5,000 reward for her return and fortunately, she was found, safe and sound. James also has another pit bull named Mr. T.

James recently moved his family from California to Austin, Texas, supposedly to be closer to Bullock. We wonder what James's latest lady, Kat Von D, thinks about the move -- and the new addition to the clan?

Celebs are going cat crazy.

On Thursday, Nicole Richie introduced the newest member of the family on her website and Twitter account. Tabitha Jones Madden, as the cat is called, has actually been living with the Richie-Madden clan for about two months after being taken in from the street. Richie writes, "I couldn't resist. I fed her, and she was as happy as Benji Madden in a sorority house. Its been two months now, so I think it's safe to call her mine." We're sure her two-legged children, Harlow and Sparrow, are just as excited as their mama.


Another celebrity tyke who's undoubtedly enjoying some kitty cuddles is little Levi McConaughey, son of Matthew McConaughey and Camilla Alves. The couple took Levi to the veterinary clinic in Malibu and came out with a gorgeous gray cat, reports OK Magazine. This shouldn't come as too big a surprise; Matthew is a known animal lover. He helped rescue pets after Hurricane Katrina, and in 2006 he saved a frightened feline from being burned alive by some thugs in Sherman Oaks, Calif., according to Contact Music.

Feeling inspired to bring home a furry friend of your own? Start your search online!

Dog Breed: Bichon Frise

Personality: "A cheerful, happy dog," says the American Kennel Club, which goes so far as to label the bichon frise "merry." Originally bred as a companion dog, the bichon enjoys nothing more than basking in the nearness of you. "It has an independent spirit, is intelligent, affectionate, bold and lively," notes Dog Breed Info Center, Also, "it has a self-assured, happy temperament that is easy to live with."

Grooming: While this dog is considered a non-shedding breed, it still requires daily grooming and some experts recommend a professional grooming once a month. The AKC's website explains, "Hair grows continually and does not shed, so extensive grooming is a must to prevent mats." The Bichon Frise Club of America strongly recommends taking precautions to prevent flea infestations, as bichons are highly allergic to flea bites.

Common Health Issues: There is a wealth of information available -- much of it conflicting -- as to how disease-prone the bichon frise breed is. The Bichon Frise Club of America, Inc. Health Web Site states that "bichons are considered to be a healthy breed if purchased from reputable breeders. For example, the top five diseases afflicting bichons (as noted in a recent health survey) are not life threatening. "Others claim that bichons are especially prone to liver shunts, particularly runts and smaller-than-normal bichons. If detected early in life, these can be managed through a low-protein diet, medications, and sometimes surgery. However, shunts are often undetected until later in life, when the chances of survival drop dramatically. Overall, though, the bichon frise is a hardy breed that enjoys a longer-than-average lifespan into teenage years. Old age and cancer are the most common causes of death.

Name: Airedale Terrier

Personality: The American Kennel Club breed standard describes the Airedale terrier as having a "sweet disposition," dubbing the breed "the undisputed 'King of Terriers'" due to the its formidable size and "hardiness." According to National Airedale Rescue coordinator Cheryl Silver, the Airedale is a "Fuzzy clown" that "will do anything for a laugh."

Grooming: According to the Airedale Terrier Club of America, "grooming an Airedale three or four times a year, in addition to regular weekly brushing and combing will keep him looking great." The AKC concurs, stating that "the Airedale coat needs regular brushing and stripping."

Common Health Issues: The National Airedale Rescue website states that "Airedales, like all other larger breeds, have occurrences of hip dysplasia." In addition, "Hypothyroidism does exist in the breed and is easy and inexpensive to take care of," Silver tells Paw Nation, noting that common symptom are skin issues, weight gain, and a lack of the breed's trademark exuberance.

When two legendary stars of film, television and stage host an event, you can bet it will draw a crowd. Hordes of spectators crowded into Shubert Alley on a muggy Saturday afternoon in New York City for the 12th annual Broadway Barks benefit hosted by co-founders Mary Tyler Moore and Bernadette Peters.

"The whole afternoon is like pet therapy," Peters tells Paw Nation. "And every year it's different dogs, so it's fabulous."

For the first time this year in honor of Broadway Barks, the Empire State Building was lit all weekend in purple, pink and yellow, the colors of Peters' latest children's picture book, "Stella Is a Star," a story about acceptance that is based on Peters' rescued pit bull, Stella.

Wandering throughout the crowded event were dogs with wagging tails wearing bright orange vests saying "Adopt Me." Representatives from more than a dozen different local dog and cat shelters were in attendance with some of their adoptable pets. There was Twiggy, an 8-month-old pit bull mix from BARC, an animal shelter in Brooklyn. "We hope to find her a home today," BARC volunteer Emily Hendricks tells Paw Nation. "Two kittens have already been adopted," announced a volunteer with Tigger Foundation.

Moore and Peters were joined on an outdoor stage by a string of stars including Sean Hayes, Richard Thomas, Tony Shalhoub, Brooke Adams, Ruthie Henshall and Cheyenne Jackson, who are currently starring in Broadway shows. Each celebrity took a turn introducing adoptable dogs and cats to the cheering crowd.

"I've never been here before, so this is exciting for me," Sean Hayes announced before introducing a sturdy-looking, white pit-bull mix from the ASPCA. "This is Pearl and she's a cutie, although she needs a little Jenny Craig," Hayes joked.

Dog Breed: German Shorthaired Pointer

Personality: The American Kennel Club breed standard describes German shorthaired pointers as "friendly, intelligent and willing to please. The first impression is that of a keen enthusiasm for work without indication of nervous or flighty character." The German Shorthaired Pointer Club of America agrees, saying the breed is "eager to please and willing to learn at relatively young ages." This is a relatively high-energy breed, with instincts that should be channeled.

Grooming: "Maintenance of the GSP is minimal compared with many other breeds," states the GSPCA website. However, they do emphasize that "being short-coated dogs does not keep them from shedding." To cut down on shedding, the GSPCA recommends regular brushing and bathing.

Common Heath Issues: German shorthaired pointers are relatively free of any common health issues, but the GSPCA does recommend health clearances for a few rare ailments like hip dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy and cone degeneration.

Training Tips: "Training tips are really the same as they are for any breed: Be consistent and provide structure," says Kristen Pauls Ishihara, State Coordinator for Texas GSP Rescue, "Many GSPs will require a great deal of recall work before they can be trusted off-leash, as they are very focused, and can focus that energy on darting squirrel." Another important training factor is managing the breed's high energy level. "Failure to provide that exercise can lead to bad behaviors, like destroying inappropriate items, fence jumping, etc." explains Ishihara.

Name: Rottweiler

Personality: The American Kennel Club describes the breed as "robust and powerful," and states that "the rottweiler is happiest when given a job to perform." According to the breed standard, a rottweiler is generally "a calm, confident and courageous dog with a self-assured aloofness that does not lend itself to immediate and indiscriminate friendships." According to rottweiler expert Jeff Shaver, "A calm, self-assured temperament is the cornerstone of a good rottweiler."

Grooming: Shaver says, "Grooming is as simple as baths as needed, trimming nails, and regular veterinarian checkups. No trimming or other grooming is needed." The AKC concurs, stating that these dogs are "to be exhibited in the natural condition with no trimming."

Common Health Issues: According to a Rottweiler Health Foundation survey, "The most common health concerns were cancer, hip dysplasia, and elbow dysplasia." The same health survey found that a significant number of owners also reported arthritis, cataracts and allergies in their rotties.

Training Tips: "This breed is very trainable, and for the most part responds very well to positive reinforcement," says Shaver. However, due to the size and athletic ability of the breed, Shaver emphasizes that "training is a must from a very early age. Start with basic puppy socialization and follow with obedience classes until the dog is committed to follow your instructions."

Dog Breed: Miniature Schnauzer

Personality: According to the American Kennel Club breed standard, a miniature schnauzer is "alert and spirited, yet obedient to command. He is friendly, intelligent and willing to please." The American Miniature Schnauzer Club describes the breed as "Sweet, loving and loyal. They often have a favorite person, even though they will love the whole family." However, the breed does tend to be a bit vocal. "They will bark when someone comes to the door," says the AMSC.

Grooming: "Miniature schnauzers should be groomed every five to eight weeks to look their best," according to the AMSC's website. "The breed has a double-coat; wiry topcoat and soft undercoat. To achieve this look the dog needs to be plucked or hand stripped." The AKC adds, "The body coat should be of sufficient length to determine texture. Furnishings are fairly thick but not silky."

Common Health Issues: The miniature schnauzer as a breed is not plagued with many prevalent health issues. However there are a handful of rare disease to look out for. "Juvenile renal disease, also known as JRD, occurs in a number of dog breeds, including the miniature schnauzer," according to the AMSC Health Committee. Other possible health risks for this breed are retinal dysplasia, hyperlipidemia and bladder stones.

Father's Day is fast approaching, and once again you're not sure what present to give your dad. A tie? A robe? Some grilling gadget? Please. Let your siblings go that route. Paw Nation is here to inspire you with great gift ideas that do good for animals.

Give Him A Rescued Goat (or Pig Or Duck)
When you adopt a farm animal at Farm Sanctuary in your dad's name, you are making a year-long donation so that the Farm Sanctuary can provide for the animal's daily needs. You can pick from many animals, including cows and pigs and sheep, but you should consider sponsoring Jerry Lee, the goat. Neglected and abandoned as a youngster, he had a rough start, but you'd never know it to meet him these days. He's now safe from harm and happily living with other animals.

Currently, Farm Sanctuary operates two shelters -- a 175-acre farm in upstate New York and a 300-acre farm in northern California -- where they rescue, rehabilitate and provide lifelong care for hundreds of animals who have been rescued from stockyards, factory farms and slaughterhouses. Whatever animal you sponsor, your dad will receive an adoption certificate with a color photograph and, depending on the animal you choose to adopt for him, there might be other benefits including a Farm Sanctuary mug or a V.I.P. tour to meet your animal.

Shop to Show You Care
Maybe you'd rather give your father something he can unwrap. Make your purchase count by shopping at an online retailer that gives back, like the Animal Rescue Site Shop. You already go there to click to give daily (right?), so this should be easy. There are many items to choose from including hammocks, cufflinks or our favorite, the "Real Men Like Cats" coffee mug.

Look for a Local Paws Cause
Helping out a large organization is fantastic, but think about making a donation to a smaller, local group as well. One idea: Puppy Hill Farm Animal Rescue in Florida, an organization that is close to this Paw Nation staffer's heart. The shelter, currently home to over 65 dogs and 40 cats and kittens all looking for homes, was robbed recently, losing $6,000 worth of equipment which was not covered by insurance. The rescue is in a tough position and donations can help keep services continuing to these needy animals. For Puppy Hill and other local shelters, every dollar counts, and they look to pet-loving people (like you and Dad!) for help.

Name: Flat-Coated Retriever

Personality: These dogs make for "a versatile family companion... with a happy and active demeanor," says the Flat-Coated Retriever Society of America. In describing the breed standard, the FCRSA explains: "Character is a primary and outstanding asset of the flat-coat. He is a responsive, loving member of the family, a versatile working dog, multi-talented, sensible, bright and tractable." Dog Breed Info Center adds about the breed, "Friendly, sweet and high-spirited, they love everyone, even strangers."

Grooming: "Coat is of moderate length, density and fullness, with a high luster," notes the FCRSA, yet "the feathered coat... needs only weekly brushing and little, if any, minor trimming." The American Kennel Club concurs, stating that "the flat-coat is easy to maintain, needing only occasional brushing and bathing."

Common Health Issues: "Health concerns for flat-coated retrievers include cancer, hip dysplasia and luxating patellas," says the FCRSA. Indeed, Dog Breed Info Center plainly states, "Cancer is common in this breed." In addition, "PRA [progressive retinal atrophy], CHD [congenital heart disease], epilepsy and diabetes are occasionally seen."

Training Tips: Even though "they have a puppy-like attitude," according to Dog Breed Info Center, flat-coated retrievers are a "very sociable breed," and will prove well-behaved and happy with "lots of gentle but firm leadership from their family." The site adds that flat-coats are "obedient and highly trainable."

Best Animal/Owner Match: A flat-coated retriever is "excellent with children and a great family dog," says Dog Breed Info Center. However, because they are so active and require a great deal of exercise, they're "not recommended for apartment life," and "will do best with at least an average-sized yard."

What Flat-Coated Retriever Owners Say: Paw Nation Facebook friend Ashley Myrick of Hermosa Beach, Calif., says of her flat-coat mix, "She's my love. Smart, and does anything to please."

Name: Toy Fox Terrier

Personality: "Possesses intelligence, courage and a take-charge attitude," says the American Kennel Club of the toy fox terrier, "truly an American breed" (which is probably why they're aka American toy terrier, aka Amertoy). They're also "outgoing and friendly, yet fiercely loyal to their families." Dog Breed Info Center heaps praise upon the breed as "intelligent, loving, sensitive, pleasant... very alert, inquisitive and quick... affectionate and very loyal." In summation, "This happy dog is sure to bring smiles to the faces of nearly all who meet it, due to its enthusiastic, puppy-like ways."

Grooming: These terriers require only "a quick weekly brushing to prevent shedding, nail trim, and occasional bath," according to the AKC.

Common Health Issues: "A fairly healthy breed," according to Dog Breed Info Center; "however, some are prone to Legg–Calvé–Perthes and stifle." Legg–Calvé–Perthes syndrome, which can often present in human children as well, occurs when inadequate blood flow to the hip joint leads to bone breakage and, subsequently, improper healing. Stifle, known to occur in many four-legged mammals, especially horses, is a similar condition that occurs in the knee joints.

Training Tips: "The breed is tough and bright, and can be stubborn without proper leadership from its owners," says Dog Breed Info Center, yet it is also "an exceptionally intelligent, trainable dog." In fact, Amertoys are often trained to work with disabled or hearing-impaired persons. Still, "make sure you are this dog's firm, confident, consistent pack leader to avoid Small Dog Syndrome and human-induced behavior problems."

Name: Himalayan

Appearance: According to TheCatSite.com, Himalayans have large, round heads and short necks with small ears and very large, wide, blue eyes on their brachycephalic faces. They are medium to large in size, and have short legs and big feet. Their pointed coats are their most distinguishing characteristic. They come in colors from lilac to blue, cream to seal. In general, they look like large, puffy Siamese cats.

History: Unlike most breeds of cat, the history of the Himalayan is concrete and well-documented, according to Himalayan Cats Online. In 1931, cat breeder Virginia Cobb and Harvard Medical School's Dr. Clyde Keeler set out to breed a long-haired, color-pointed cat. In 1936, they succeeded by combining Persians and color-pointed cats. They wrote a paper on the Himalayan, and then disbanded their program. In the 1950s, several other breeders in England, Canada and America began to replicate the process independently, and in 1957, the Himalayan was accepted by the Cat Fanciers' Association. Since then, they have only been gaining popularity.

Personality: LoveToKnow Cats describes Himalayans as outgoing and inquisitive, but one-person animals. They find a person they like and bond to that person heavily, following him or her from room to room. While they usually maintain this bond for life, Himalayans have been known to switch owners or find new ones when circumstances dictate it.

Name: Maine coon

Appearance: According to Maine Coon Cat Nation, Maine coons generally are very large, long-haired cats with shaggy coats and pronounced manes. They are most notable for their size -- males can weigh between 13 and 18 pounds, and females between 9 and 12 -- and the massive amounts of long hair that sprouts from all over their bodies, except their faces. Their shaggy, water-repellent coat sprouts from every inch of their bodies, between toes, around the neck and, most impressively, all over their peacock-like tail. Their faces are long and expressive, and they have large, lynx-like ears.

History: Although many people believe that Maine coons came about in Maine naturally, most breeders today believe that they were created when oriental long-haired cats came to Maine in its early history and bred with the shorthairs that already were there, according to Fanciers.com. They were first written about for an 1861 cat show, so they presumably had existed for a few decades before that. Although popular in the late 1800s, they fell out of fashion by around the turn of the century with the arrival of the exotic cats of Europe and Asia. However, since the 1950s, they have been undergoing a resurgence, and today are one of the most popular breeds of cat in America.

Name: Clumber Spaniel

Personality: Consider the clumber spaniel a mystery wrapped in an enigma. On the one hand, this non-barking breed with a great memory was one of the first nine breeds of dog that was registered by the American Kennel Club, according to its website. On the other hand, it's not one of more well-known breeds. Which is too bad, because it's a breed worth knowing. "He may appear dignified and pensive, but he possesses great enthusiasm for both work and play." says the AKC. Dog Breed Info Center says the clumber spaniel is a "docile, sweet, intelligent and pleasant dog. Among the most low-key and easygoing of the hunting breeds. They are very affectionate."

Grooming: "Clumbers shed moderately year-round, and tend to slobber and drool more than other breeds," says the AKC. JustDogBreeds.com elaborates, "The clumber spaniel is a high shedder. You will need to comb and brush his coat around three to four times a week to keep it looking good, and you should also check and clean his ear canals to reduce the chances of infection. You may need to trim some of the hairs when they become stray and straggly."

Common Health Issues: "The clumber spaniel has a life expectancy of around 10 years, which is relatively short compared with many other breeds," notes JustDogBreeds.com. "There are a number of health problems and disorders that are linked to this breed, and this includes cataracts, HD, entropion, ectroption and spinal problems."