WAGGIN' TALES
Keep Your Pets Safe This Winter
Winter weather can be rough on our furry friends. Follow these steps from the American Red Cross to help ensure your pet’s safety when chilly weather hits their area.
1. Bring your pets inside during cold weather. Keep your animals inside. The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals® (ASPCA®) reports if pets are left outdoors, they can freeze, become disoriented, lost, stolen, injured or killed. In addition, don’t leave pets alone in a car during cold weather, as cars can act as refrigerators that hold in the cold and cause animals to freeze to death.
The Humane Society of the United States adds that if pets cannot come indoors, you should make sure they are protected by a dry, draft-free enclosure large enough to allow them to sit and lie down, but small enough to hold in the pet’s body heat. Raise the floor a few inches off the ground and cover it with cedar shavings or straw. Turn the enclosure away from the wind and cover the doorway with waterproof burlap or heavy plastic.
2. Move other animals or livestock to sheltered areas and make sure they have access to non-frozen drinking water. If the animals are outside, make sure their access to food and water is not blocked by snow drifts, ice or other obstacles.
WHY YOU SHOULD ADOPT, NOT SHOP
1. You save a life.
All animals deserve a second chance. Whether they have been lost, given up or abandoned, they are helpless and need a chance at a new life in a loving home.
2. You help break the cycle of pet overpopulation.
Obviously, there are not enough homes for all the animals that are born every year. When you adopt from a shelter you help curb the overpopulation cycle. According to the Humane Society, eight to 12 million dogs, cats, puppies and kittens are euthanized because there are simply not enough homes
for them.
3. You help stop cruelty in mass
breeding facilities.
There are thousands of commercial pet-breeding facilities and backyard breeders that produce millions of animals for sale in pet stores and through newspaper ads — puppy and kitten mills. Dogs and cats are repeatedly impregnated and spend their entire lives in cages without human companionship. Once they become unprofitable, they are then destroyed. Many times, these animals are so inbred that they end up sick or with birth defects that may not be detected at first. When you adopt instead of shop, you put an end to this cruelty.
4. You can take advantage of adopting an adult animal.
Adult pets are great! Some are already house-trained and some can already sit, stay or shake. You won’t have to deal with the “puppy phase” or the “kitten phase.” No biting, chewing, clawing or “accidents” in the house (most likely). You will be able to see the personality of the adult animal and won’t have to wait to see what you get.
5. You get lifetime resources with shelter employees and volunteers.
People who work at shelters are a great resource to help you find information or resources for your pet. They have a wealth of information on many issues and some provide services at a greatly reduced price.
6. You get to choose from a large selection of animals.
Shelters offer a variety of breeds that you won’t find anywhere else. There are specific breeds and mutts — my favorite breed. They have thousands of breeds come through their doors every year!
7. You adopt a pet that has received
good care.
Animals that end up in shelters are admitted by experienced staff. They are given vaccinations upon arrival and go through a behavioral screening process. They partner with vets that are either on staff or visit regularly to assist with healthcare issues and concerns.
8. You support a very valuable charity
and community institution.
Every community requires an animal shelter. When you adopt a pet from a shelter, you assist a not-for-profit organization. You also send a message to others who will be asking you for years, where you got your adorable pet. Shelters improve the community by mandating that adopted animals be spayed or neutered. This requirement diminishes chances that more unwanted animals will enter the world.
9. You pay less.
Low adoption fees (which cover a portion of the shelter’s costs) are much less than the cost of purebred puppies or kittens sold for profit.
10. You encourage others to adopt from animal shelters.
When your friends ask where you got your amazing pet, you can tell them “at a shelter.” We are fortunate to have several good shelters in our area. Unfortunately, I still keep hearing that they are full. We need to get the word out about spay and neuter clinics and teach pet owners how to work with behavioral issues so they don’t end up surrendering a perfectly good animal.
Here are some tips on how to adopt the perfect dog or cat for your household.
- Research the breed or breeds that will “fit in” with your lifestyle. There are some breeds, such as herding dogs that have high energy and need “a job” to rein them in and not all dogs get along with children or other pets.
2. Make sure you have a fenced-in area or plenty of room for your new pet.
3. If you adopt a puppy, just know going in that you will have puppy issues, such as chewing, or accidents in the house. It’s not always fun in the beginning, but so worth it once they are trained.
4. Train them. A well trained pet is
a joy to have.
5. Make sure you are up to the task of walking your pet daily.
6. Love them. Treat them like family and they will return your love with their unconditional love.
Having a pet is like having a roommate. They require care and a lot of consideration. If you aren’t sure that you can treat them like family and aren’t up to the daily tasks of an animal, then don’t get one. But if you want to experience happy greetings after a hard day at work, nightly snuggles on the couch, daily required exercise of walking (great for staying healthy), or just experiencing unconditional love, then I highly recommend a shelter dog or cat. I can’t tell you how many times I have heard shelter pet owners say that their rescue pets are more grateful. Somehow, they just know that you saved them.
Animal Shelters and Rescues in the White Mountains of Arizona
Pet Allies
1321 N. 16th St.
Show Low, Arizona 85901
(928) 537-8009 Shelter
(928) 421-0787 Clinic
Tails of Love Rescue
Facebook/Tails of Love Rescue
Humane Society
of the White Mountains
3212 Porter Mountain Rd Lakeside, AZ 85929
PO Box 909 Lakeside AZ 85929
(928) 368-5295
Round Valley Animal Rescue
Animal shelter
Springerville, AZ
https://www.roundvalleyanimalrescue.org
(928) 333-1133
Good Dog Rez-Q
St. Johns, AZ
(520) 405-8939
https://www.Gooddogrezq@gmail.com
Holbrook Animal Shelter:
105 Airport Road
928-524-6828
https://www.holbrookaz.gov/departments/animal-control
Snowflake Animal Shelter
(May not be a no-kill shelter):
928-536-7500
www.snowflaketaylorpd.com/services-9
PROTECT YOUR
DOG'S PAWS
1. Check Your Dog’s Paws Regularly
Dogs have different paw pads. Some may be tougher than others while some may be more sensitive. You should regularly check your dog’s paws for any signs of injury or infection. Look for any cuts, scrapes, redness or swelling. Also check between the toes and pads of the feet for any dirt or foreign objects that may have become lodged there. If you notice anything out of the ordinary, contact your vet immediately as it could be an indication of a more serious problem.
2. Trim Their Nails
Another important part of caring for your dog’s paws is making sure their nails are trimmed regularly. Unkempt nails can lead to discomfort and pain when walking, so it is vital that you keep them trimmed
regularly. Around every two weeks is typical for most dogs kept as house pets. If you are unsure how to do this on your own at home, it is best to seek assistance from a professional groomer or veterinarian who can show you how to do it properly and safely.
3. Protect Their Paws from Hot Surfaces
During the summer months especially, hot pavement and even asphalt can cause serious damage to your pup’s sensitive feet if not protected properly from the heat. It’s best to check the temperature of the ground before you take your dog out for a walk. You can either just use your own fingers to check or go the extra mile and get an infrared thermometer. Be sure that you always carry water with you when out on walks with your pup in order to cool down their feet after stepping on hot surfaces. You may also opt to put on some special booties that provide extra protection against hot surfaces.
4. Moisturize Their Pads
Keeping your pooch’s paw pads moisturized is key in preventing dryness and cracking which can lead to infection or other issues over time. There are many different products available specifically designed for this purpose; however, using a natural moisturizer such as coconut oil will work just as well! Simply massage a small amount into each paw pad at least once a week (or more depending on need) and then wipe off any excess with a soft cloth or towel afterwards.
TIPS FOR
KEEPING YOUR DOG SAFE IN THE FOREST
• Maintain Control of Your Dog
Look up the National Forest you intend to visit online for information about how to manage your dog and where they can go. You can find information about each National Forest by state on the Forest Service website. Learn about the leash and confinement rules for campgrounds, trails, and any other area you plan to visit.
Maintaining constant control of your dog by leash or voice command is crucial no matter where you are in a National Forest. While a leash may not be required in certain forest areas, you must keep your dog leashed if you are not confident they will respond to you.
• Update Dog IDs
Losing a dog in the woods can be a scary ordeal, but you can rest easier in even the vastest National Forest when you give yourself a better chance of finding them. Before hitting the woods, check your dog’s microchip information to ensure it’s updated. Ensure your dog has appropriate IDs with your contact info on their tags, and consider investing in a GPS collar.
• Protect Your Dog From Animals
Wild animal interactions are unlikely during the day, but camping at night could put your pet at risk if they wander off. Always keep your dog in your tent or camper at night. Feed them away from the tent, clean up any leftover food before retiring, and store dog food in bear-resistant canisters at least 100 feet from the campsite
.• Respect Those Around You
Stay aware of others around you and their sensitivities to dogs. Other pets or small children may become uneasy or agitated around your dog, so keeping a leash on hand at all times to use as the situations call for it will ensure everyone stays comfortable.
• Clean Up After Your Dog
Dog waste is unsightly and unsanitary, creating unnecessary risks for other hikers, their pets, and wildlife. Always clean up after your dog, and drop bags in the nearest trash receptacle or take it with you to dispose of at home.
• Know Your Dog’s Limits
Compare your plans with your dog’s capabilities. You don’t want to plan a hike that is several miles long if your dog isn’t used to that kind of exertion. Consider your dog’s age and health, and seek advice from your vet before heading to the forest. Keep plenty of extra water available, and take frequent breaks to monitor your dog and give them a chance to rest.
https://www.dogster.com/lifestyle/are-dogs-allowed-in-national-forests
FYI: It could be a felony to dump your pets in the forest and leave them on purpose. Please, take them to a shelter or call animal control instead, where they will be taken care of.
Famous Animal Lovers
By Kathleen Little
The admiration and desire for companionship with animals is universal. We like to think that our OSW friends feel even more passionately about pets and other fauna. For a little fun during this season of love of all kinds, here’s what some of our favorite historical figures, great minds, and celebrities had to say about their fellowship and fondness of the animal world.
The admiration and desire for companionship with animals is universal. We like to think that our OSW friends feel even more passionately about pets and other fauna. For a little fun during this season of love of all kinds, here’s what some of our favorite historical figures, great minds, and celebrities had to say about their fellowship and fondness of the animal world.
“I always befriended animals and have said many a good word for them. Even to the least-loved mosquitoes I gave many a meal, and told them to go in peace.” — John Muir
Rescue is my Favorite Breed
Anne Groebner
This past weekend, I spent a couple of days with some of the crew from the Tails of Love Rescue. We set up booths to try and raise the much-needed funds to supplement the work they do for free-roaming dogs. During the time I spent with them, they received several phone calls about lost dogs people found wandering around the White Mountains area. When all of the shelters are full, they send people to Lance Matthews, the founder of Tails of Love. He and his wife Amanda, as well as his assistants Kelly, Shandon, and April, take every call very seriously. READ MORE...
Keeping Your Pets Safe in Winter
Sometimes I have to refrain from checking Facebook so I don’t have to look at how many pets get lost or get “found” wandering around the area. Now that it’s winter, it is crucial that pet owners take a more responsible attitude when it comes to their pets. Just because they have furry coats, doesn’t mean that they can survive in our winter weather. Even some large hairy dogs are susceptible to frost bite. With winter, comes a lot more dangers to pets. Here are some tips from the American Kennel Club and American Humane on how to keep your pet safe.
HOMEMADE
DOG TREATS
KATHLEEN LITTLE
With Thanksgiving around the corner, there’s no better time to show your gratitude for your pups than with a homemade treat that’s fit for your feast. Give these a try!
PEANUT BUTTER
AND BANANA TREATS
Ingredients:
• 1 ripe banana
• 1 cup natural peanut butter (make sure it does not contain xylitol, as it can be toxic to dogs)
• 2 1/2 cups rolled oats
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Mash the banana in a large bowl, then add the peanut butter and mix until smooth.
Stir in the rolled oats until the mixture becomes a thick dough.
Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness and cut it into shapes with cookie cutters.
Place the treats on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown.
Allow the treats to cool completely before serving them to your dog.
TOP 10 MOST GOOGLED DOG QUESTIONS
1. WHY DO DOGS EAT GRASS?
Most vets agree that eating grass helps relieve upset stomachs and other gut symptoms. Some dogs, however, seem to simply enjoy the taste especially from early, green moist growth.
2. DO DOGS DREAM?
Yes, dogs dream. Research with EEG scanning conducted while dogs slept support dream activity. If you watch your dog closely, you will notice that they occasionally move their legs as if running, whine, whimper, or even bark, breathe heavily, and have normal rapid eye movements during dream sleep.
3. WHY DO DOGS HOWL?
A howl is a nonspecific form of communication behavior. Howls happen with stress or territorial issues. Howling can also simply be a fun activity they do together.
4. WHY DO DOGS HAVE WHISKERS?
Culinary Cats and Canines
Kathleen Little
Americans sure do love their fur babies. In fact, according to Forbes Advisor, U.S. animal lovers spent almost $137 billion on their pets in 2022 alone. That is an 11% increase from 2021 and this trend shows no signs of stopping. Reasons for the increase in pet owner spending are varied, but across the board, intensified devotion to health and happiness is the major cause of the uptick. If you are a proud pet owner, you have probably noticed the jump in the price of supplies reflecting the demand in this market. Necessity being the mother of invention, many are finding different ways to offset costs while giving their four-legged family members only the best. One of the easiest ways to do this is to consider making your own pet food. READ MORE...
Saving Pets
and Their People
The White Mountain Pet Food Pantry
By Kathleen Little
Bobbi Brien is on a mission, several, in fact. A woman with Native blood from the Turtle Mountain Band of Chippewa Indians, she spent her youth in rural Alaska before pursuing her education. She took on the role of a career woman after earning her BA in technical writing and communications and an MBA in business. Her next move
The Importance of Spaying and Neutering
Benefits for Animals and Communities
Lance Matthews
Spaying and neutering are essential procedures for controlling the pet population and promoting the health and well-being of dogs and cats. The overpopulation of pets is a significant issue that leads to overcrowded shelters, euthanasia of healthy animals, and a burden on communities. This article will delve into the reasons why spaying and neutering are vital for both animals and the community at large.
- Benefits for Animals
Health Benefits: Spaying and neutering have been proven to reduce the risk of several health issues in dogs and cats. For example, spaying female pets reduces the chances of developing mammary gland tumors and uterine infections, while neutering male pets lowers the risk of testicular cancer and prostate problems. Overall, these procedures can lead to a longer, healthier life for pets.
Give Me Shelter
Tails of Love Rescue
By Anne Groebner
In a perfect world, all dogs would be healthy, happy, and living comfortably in a home with loving humans. Humans who feed them, walk them, and promise to keep them safe and warm. The reality is homeless animals outnumber homeless people 5 to 1, only 10% of dogs born will find a permanent home, and around 3.9 million dogs are abandoned or given up to shelters each year. That means hundreds of thousands, if not millions of dogs are left on their own to survive on the streets. The READ MORE...
Protect Your furry Friends and Community
By Lance Matthews, Tails of Love Rescue
Let's talk about something that’s close to our hearts and homes – our beloved pets. Now, we all agree that ensuring their health and safety is paramount. So today, we're going to delve into the simple act of rabies vaccination - a measure that safeguards not only your pets but also your family and our wider community.
You've probably heard of rabies, a deadly virus that, once it shows symptoms, is almost always fatal. It sounds scary, and it is, but here's the good news - rabies is completely preventable through vaccination.
Culinary Cats and Canines:
Feeding Pets with Love
By Kathleen Little
Americans sure do love their fur babies. In fact, according to Forbes Advisor, U.S. animal lovers spent almost $137 billion on their pets in 2022 alone. That is an 11% increase from 2021 and this trend shows no signs of stopping. Reasons for the increase in pet owner spending are varied, but across the board, intensified devotion to health and happiness is the major cause of the uptick. If you are a proud pet owner, you have probably noticed the jump in the price of supplies reflecting the demand in this market. Necessity being the mother of READ MORE...
Rally in the Park
Putting your best paw forward to enjoy your Dog!
By Jennifer Rinaldi
The day dawned warm and clear as our small group of Rally fun seekers, and White Mountain Kennel Club members set up our courses on Ponderosa field at Show Low Park on October 1st. Our judge, Christopher Smith, came in from the valley to officiate, and graciously helped schlep and haul all the necessary equipment to the field.
Jumps were set, distraction bowls filled, and ribbons made ready as local and out-of-towners began to arrive with their dogs.
I was introduced to the sport of Rally last year when the Vice President of our kennel club, Jane Dyer, invited me to come to one of their practices with my dog, Sully, at Show Low Park. I was hesitant since my dog can be aggressive and disruptive at times, but I prepared myself to give it a shot. I am so glad I did!
Our small group of handlers understood immediately that my dog needed space, and by the end of our third class, I no longer worried that Sully would be disruptive. He came to trust that I would keep Read More
