Sunday, December 19, 2010

Wonderful News

Europe Grants Animals Legal Status of Sentient Beings

December 2, 2009
December 1st was a big day for animals in the European Union: for the first time, fish and farmed animals alike have gained the legal status of “sentient beings.” This victory promises to shape all future legal measures in Europe related to raising, transporting, and slaughtering animals.
It’s been a long time coming. Back in 1991, a campaign initiated by Compassion in World Farming got sentient being status mentioned in a non-binding treaty declaration. In 1997, sentience was bumped up to a treaty protocol, which carried some legal force. Now, this status has been granted in the main text of the Lisbon Treaty, which carries far more legal power.
I know that the previous paragraph is tediously written—as Bismarck noted, crafting laws is like making sausage, it’s best not to see it happen—but the gains won this year set vital precedent. Here’s how Philip Lymberry, who runs Compassion In World Farming, sums up the victory:
I remember how our late founder dreamed of changing the EU’s underpinning Treaty to better address the status of animals. I remember how that goal was seen as impossible, impractical, by some, even laughable. Now that dream has come true. Now to make that other dream come true; an end to factory farming itself and its terrible travelling companion, the long distance transport of animals.
I say it all the time: the most important thing to understand about animal rights victories is that they’re all about precedent. This win not only advances the possibilities for animal protection in Europe, it will also give American activists a big push in seeking similar gains in the United States. (Danke, Mahi.) Link.

Tuesday, December 7, 2010

Sweet Pea will die in a shelter gas chamber tomorrow if we can't find foster home!

Beagle Mix: An adoptable dog
Small • Senior • Female


...Beagle Senior Very nice, good with other dogs, good with cats,
good with children... All she wants is to curl up next to someone who
will love her and give her a pat. She is scheduled
to be put down tomorrow, please please help by offering a foster home for her,
this face is breaking our hearts

Tuesday, November 23, 2010

Dog needs help asap

This stray was just brought in by  dog wardens.  She was found injured (possibly hit by car) and has severe damage to her front right leg.  She has no identification on her and will be held for the next 72 hours to see if anyone claims her.  She is currently on IV pain medication.   A vet that has offered to amputate her leg for free after the 72 hour stray hold if she is not claimed by her owner.  Our foster homes are full and we will not be able to house her after the surgery.  We need a rescue to commit to taking her after her surgery and providing her with the after care that she will need.  Please let Tara know if you wouldl be able to take her...............
 
   

Monday, November 22, 2010

Home needed for Bernie, time is running out

Bernie is a shelter and if he cannot find a home by this week, he will sadly be put down.
If you have an interest in helping Bernie please contact us at tagsinfo@animalguardian.org and we
will gladly forward you to the shelter.

Saturday, November 20, 2010

Santa Paws is Coming to Town!!

Mark your calendars, December 11 and 12 and bring your pet for a photo
with Santa at the Petsmart Whitby location.
Part of the proceeds will be donated by Petsmart to our rescue.
This annual event has been a great success and a lot of fun, so don't
be disappointed.
Mr. and Mrs. Claus will be waiting to greet you!!

Thursday, September 30, 2010

Meet Jake

 Update- Owner put him down last night, we didn't know this was going to happen.


This little man is need of a Foster or Permanent Home, can you help.
He is only 5 years of age, and would be a great companion for someone who wants a loving buddy. Jake weighs less than 8 pounds smaller than most cats!


Please if you help contact us at tagsinfo@animalguardian.org

Quote of the Week

"If your actions inspire others to dream more, learn more, do more and become more, you are a leader."
-John Quincy Adams

Wednesday, September 29, 2010

One of our Volunteers wins Photo Contest!!

Congratulations Alan!!
Pictured here is Riley a dog adopted through the TAGS program many years ago.

Friday, September 24, 2010

TAGS Bake Sale October 9th

With the great success of our last Bake Sale, our volunteers are ready to go again
with lots of home made goodies.
You don't want to miss this Fundraiser, not only will you be supporting the needy animals in our program, you will satisfy your sweet tooth!!
Save yourself hours of baking for Thanksgiving!!

Location is Pet Valu at Harmony and Taunton Road, beside Super Store.
from 11-3 p.m.


Any questions e-mail at tagsinfo@animalguardian.org



Thursday, September 23, 2010

Charlie Boy needs help


Charlie has two deformed front legs and he will require surgery.
Sadly this young 8 month old pup is managing but to have a full life he must have this operation.
Charlie is full of love and full of life, and he deserves a good home once we can get his health back
to normal.
If you can help Charlie by providing any size of donation please go to Canadahelps.org and donate
to "Charlie Boy" under our program name.
We will be posting more updates soon.
**NEW SEPTEMBER 24th**  Watch this short video to see Charlie's Mobility Issue.

Nakita Already for Trick and Treat

Can your dog do a trick for a treat?
Nakita can;  look at her all decked out and ready for October 31st.
This lovely sweet girl is looking for her forever home, is it you?
www.animalguardian.org

Monday, August 30, 2010

URGENT PLEA!!!

We need foster homes, or many dogs will not have a second chance, please, please,
help.
Everything is paid for by the program.

Contact tagsinfo@animalguardian.org

Saturday, August 28, 2010

Suport the "Its Hip to Snip" Campaign and Purchase a car magnet and support Spay Neuter Durham


More Charlie



His Name is Charlie and he is 7 months old. He is a very good dog, very friendly.
He has a birth defect and his front legs are not growing out right and could be a costly procedure. However the vet also says not to worry about it unless he is whining or limping which he is not.
The Animal Guardian Society would like to bring Charlie into our program and give
him a chance to find a good home. If you can offer a foster home or may be interested in adopting Charlie please contact us at tagsinfo@animalguardian.org

What a great day!!

Angel signed papers today, and Valeri is being adopted! Turner and Mia out on extended visits! Home visit coming for Hooch!! Home visit for Charlie! We are rockin and rollin, thanks to our great volunteers and all the do!!

Saturday, August 21, 2010

Spay Neuter Durham Update

We are pleased to announce that our application for Incorporation has been approved.
SND will now apply for Charitable Status.
Lots of fundraising to do, so please show your support and get involved.

news for today

Rocksy is now adopted.

Cooper is being adopted.

Valeri, Jitterbug, Mia all going on extended visits, fingers crossed for more adoptions

New training class started today, and lots of dogs getting meet and greets.

Busy day, thanks to all our volunteers who came up today.

Lots of dogs went home tired after a full day at the Dog Park!!

Thursday, August 19, 2010

New Shelter dog needs foster home


Female one year of age, very gentle. Time is up in shelter, we need a foster home
to save her. Highly adoptable.

Monday, August 16, 2010

Please Help Charlie!!




Charlie is a young Border Collie mix.
He has had a bad start early in his life being locked in a crate most of the time,
and treated badly by humans.
He is fearful but yet very devoted, seems more trusting of woman, good with female
dogs.
Charlie has only one week left to find a home, we are doing everything
we can.
Charlie needs a foster home who can work with him, exercise him and understand his
needs.
Please if you can help don't hesitate, e-mail us at tagsinfo@animalguardian.org today!
Charlie's life depends on it.

Thursday, July 29, 2010

Valeri Needs a home can you help??




This sweet little girl is named Valeri. She can to TAGS by rescue transport from the U.S. where she was next in line to be put down due to overcrowding. She is about a year old and weighs 25 lbs. She will probably not grow much bigger than her picture. She is active and loves to play especially with one of her foster brothers. She is crate trained and is learning to walk well on leash. If you have a spot open in your family for a sweet natured little girl, then Valeri is the dog for you.

Friday, July 23, 2010

Beagles will die at University of Guelph

From: Animal Alliance
Date: July 22, 2010 4:22:10 PM GMT-04:00
To: Cara Melbye
Subject: Guelph Beagles Need Help!

Dear Cara,

Beagles at the University of Guelph need our help. Please let us explain the situation.

For the past few months, Animal Alliance has been working to rescue beagles used in the Veterinary Skills Training and Enhancement Program (VSTEP). VSTEP is a program for international vets who want to practice in Ontario. Typically, the beagles are spayed then euthanized. We've said to the manager of VSTEP that the beagles do not have to die, that Animal Alliance can find them loving homes. After a great deal of pressure from us, the beagles are going to be recovered but adopted out only to individuals, not released to Animal Alliance's care.

If you have been thinking about adopting a dog, we have been informed that these beagles are sweet, lovely little girls. There are 10 beagles, all female and approximately one to two years of age. They will likely need lots of love and patience. Most have spent their entire lives in cages and have never walked outside, climbed upstairs or been on a leash. But they are gentle loving animals in need of a permanent loving home.

Please call or e-mail us to learn more about the process and how you can help.

On behalf of the beagles, thank you!!!
Tail wags,
Liz and the Animal Alliance crew
416-462-9541 ext: 23
liz@animalalliance. ca

Sunday, July 18, 2010

No Country for Animals set to air July 28th at 10 PM on Global National.

GLOBAL NATIONAL’S KEVIN NEWMAN LOOKS AT CANADA ’ S REAL RECORD ON ANIMAL RIGHTS IN

REVEALED: NO COUNTRY FOR ANIMALS

GLOBAL TELEVISION, WEDNESDAY, JULY 28 AT 10PM

Kevin Newman deals with another hot issue: Do animals have any rights in Canada ? That’s a question he poses in the latest instalment of the ‘Revealed’ documentary series, produced by 90th Parallel Productions for Global Television. NO COUNTRY FOR ANIMALS examines Canada ’s deplorable record on animal welfare and looks at the people who are fighting to bring about much-needed change. It’s part of Global Television’s summer documentary series ‘Currents’ and will be telecast on Wednesday, July 28 at 10PM.

“The issue of how we treat our animals is a visceral one and the reality of what’s been happening in this country isn’t easy to take,” Kevin Newman said. “I believe this is a subject that doesn’t get enough attention and the impetus for the ‘Revealed’ series with 90th Parallel is to provide a platform to illuminate issues in an incisive way. I certainly hope we’ve succeeded with this important topic.” Newman narrates this film and co-wrote and co-produced.

Without being unnecessarily graphic, NO COUNTRY FOR ANIMALS exposes Quebec ’s notorious puppy mills and examines the mistreatment of animals raised for food. We see the gestation crates where animals spend their entire lives confined in standing positions, and overcrowded abattoir-bound trucks where livestock can go for days without food or water.


It all happens because Canada has very outdated, ineffectual laws protecting animals and when cruelty charges are made, they are often dismissed. “In Canada animals are property,” explains one activist. Our legal standards protecting animals lag far behind the European Union or California , for example, where major steps have been taken to protect animals and enhance their lives.

This documentary introduces viewers to some of the people who are fighting to bring about change in this country. There’s Nicole Joncas challenging the Quebec courts to close their horrific puppy mills, or Twyla Francois, armed with an undercover camera, campaigning vigorously to bring attention to the mistreatment of farm animals. We meet Canada ’s first lawyer to specialize in animal law, and a new, young generation dedicated to the fight to improve the lives of animals through legal and educational means. NO COUNTRY FOR ANIMALS is a documentary that will enlighten and enrage you. And will leave you wondering how humane our society really is.


NO COUNTRY FOR ANIMALS is directed by Karen Pinker. It is produced by 90th Parallel Productions Ltd in association with Canwest. Gordon Henderson is executive producer.


For further information or to request photography, please contact:

David McCaughna

416-531-1412

davidmcc2@gmail.com

Thursday, July 15, 2010

Have you ever thought about Fostering a dog read this a Poem for Rescuers and Foster Parents

Poem for Rescuers and Foster Parents

There I sat, alone and afraid,
You got a call and came right to my aid.
You bundled me up with blankets and love.
And, when I needed it most, you gave me a hug.

I learned that the world was not all that scary and cold.
That sometimes there is someone to have and to hold.
You taught me what love is, you helped me to mend.
You loved me and healed me and became my first
friend.

And just when I thought you'd done all you do,
There came along not one new lesson, but two.
First you said, "Sweetheart, you're ready to go.
I've done all I can, and you've learned all I know."

Then you bundled me up with a blanket and kiss.
Along came a new family, they even have kids!
They took me to their home, forever to stay.

At first I thought you sent me away.
Then that second lesson became perfectly clear.
No matter how far, you will always be near.

And so, Foster Mom, you know I've moved on.
I have a new home, with toys and a lawn.
But I'll never forget what I learned that first day.
You never really give your fosters away.

You gave me these thoughts to remember you by.
We
may never meet again, and now I know why.
You'll remember I lived with you for a time.
I may not be yours, but you'll always be mine.
- Author Unknown

Congratulations on Adoptions

Alexis, Thunder, Axle.
These lucky dogs have found their forever homes, but we have many more waiting.
Check out our website wwww.animalguardian.org

Friday, June 25, 2010

Hot Weather Tips for your Dog

Hot Weather Safety Tips for Dogs




While summertime is often a time to relax, play sports, enjoy picnics, trips to the beach, and backyard parties, the summer months can also offer some potential hazards to our companion animals.

1) Anti-Freeze

If ingested, anti-freeze (ethylene glycol), the day-glo green colored fluid frequently seen near curbs, is often lethal -- even in very small quantities. Because many dogs and cats like its sweet taste, there are an enormous number of animal fatalities each year from animals drinking anti-freeze. Poisoning from anti-freeze is considered a serious medical emergency which must be treated by a qualified veterinarian IMMEDIATELY. Fortunately, the Sierra company now offers a far less toxic form of anti-freeze. They can be reached at (888)88-SIERRA.

2) Heatstroke and Heat Exhaustion

Parked cars: Leaving your dog in a parked car in the summer (even with the window left a few inches open), can cause heatstroke within minutes. Note: Leaving your dog in a car parked in the shade does not assure that your dog will not become seriously overheated. Shaded cars may still get very hot due to the the greenhouse effect, and the sun may also move enough to change shaded areas into sunny ones. Dogs left in parked cars also risk being harrassed or stolen.

Airplane Travel: To help prevent your dog or cat from overheating when traveling by airplane, avoid transporting your companion animal in the cargo section of the plane during hot weather. (Always take into consideration both the departure and arrival temperatures.) If your must transport you dog or cat in the cargo section, take a direct, early morning or late evening flight whenever possible, as layovers, delayed take-offs, and mid-day travel (when the temperature is hottest) can all pose an increased risk.

General Info: Heat exhaustion is often caused by over-exercising or running with a dog during hot weather. Both heatstroke and heat exhaustion can result in brain damage, heart failure or even death in a short period of time. Short muzzed and thick-coated breeds and mixes are particularly vulnerable, although any breed may be at risk. Always bring cool water along when walking, running or hiking with your dog during hot weather. To cool off an overheated dog, offer him plenty of water, then wet the dog's body and paws with cool water, then fan. A dog's normal internal body temperature is between 100.5 degrees F and 02 degrees F. If the dog experiences heatstroke or heat exhaustion, he should receive veterinary attention as soon as possible.

3) Car Windows

Prevent your dog from hanging his head out of a moving car or truck window when taking him for a ride. Bugs, small pebbles and other debri can injure his eyes, and he is also at risk of jumping out of the vehicle. Also, closing automatic car windows while your dog is hanging his head out of the car window can cause him or her serious harm.

4) July 1st Fireworks

Avoid exposing your puppy or dog to fireworks noise, as fireworks can result in serious (and often longterm) phobias. Unfortunately, in many communities, firecracker noise often begins weeks before the July 4th holiday. Keep evening walks with your dog very brief, and never leave your dog outdoors in your yard or property if there is any risk of exposure to firecracker noise. When indoors, try to disguise outdoor noises with music, television, air conditioners and "white noise" machines. Otherwise, if at all possible, consider taking a short vacation with your dog to a quieter community where firework noise is minimal.

5) Identification Tags, Tattoos, and Microchips

Be sure to attach your dog's identification tags (along with his Rabies tag) to his flat buckle collar. ID tags won't do any good being left in a desk drawer at home. Special tattoo ID and microchip ID are also recommended.

6) Open Windows, Fire Escapes and Rooftops

During hot weather, many people leave a few windows open in their home to help create a nice cool cross-breeze. If you have a dog or cat at home, be certain to install secure window screens (or safety bars) in any of the windows which will be left open, as many companion animals fall out of windows, and fire-escapes every year and are often seriously injured or killed. Also, if you allow your dog access to your building's rooftop, make sure the sidewalls which enclose the rooftop are high enough to prevent your dog from being able to fall or jump off, and make sure that you accompany him.

7) Pickup Trucks

Never allow your dog to ride in the back of an open pickup truck, unless he is safely secured by a padded harness to the center of the pickup "bed" with specially designed tethers. (Also, make sure to provide a thick comfortable padded surface or dog bed to prevent any injury or discomfort to your dog's joints.)

8) Protect Your Dog From Being Stolen

Companion animal theft is unfortunately a serious problem in this country. The number of companion animals that are stolen from backyards and from outside stores and supermarkets increases dramatically throughout Spring, Summer and Fall. Even the "safest" neighborhoods are not immune to this growing problem. The bottom line is: never leave your dog unsupervised if there is any risk that your dog could be harrassed, poisoned or stolen.

9) Swimming Pools

Each year, puppies, dogs and small children accidentally drown in backyard swimming pools when left unattended. To help prevent such a tragedy, always keep fenced-in pools locked securely when not being used, and keep companion animals and small children away from unenclosed and unoccupied pools.

10) Benefits of Spaying and Neutering

Regardless of the time of year, neutering your dog (or cat) will help reduce the likelihood of: your dog roaming and getting injured or lost, unwanted litters, intra-species fighting, sexual frustration and mounting, urinary marking, dominance aggression, and a variety of physical conditions including certain types of cancer.

Tuesday, May 25, 2010

Do You Know this Dog?


If so please contact The Animal Guardian Society

tagsinfo@animalguardian.org

or 905 2638247

Sunday, May 23, 2010

Benny has Finally found his Forever home read his story..



Benson came to us as a foster a couple of months after we lost our beloved boys Scooby and Sparky who passed within weeks of each other. We couldn’t replace our ‘boys’ but we missed the pitter patter of tiny paws and decided that fostering would fill our need to share our home with a four-legged friend while providing a little one with a safe, warm and loving environment while he was awaiting his forever home.
Benny was a challenge from the start. The first night he was resource guarding a rather large rawhide. He didn’t realize that nobody here was going to take it away from him. He was chewing so vigorously though that he cut his gums and we had to get the rawhide away from him to allow his gums to heal. A bowl of food eventually convinced him to give it up. Benny likes to get behind the couch to watch the world through the picture window – knocking lamps and other items along the way. We moved those things to allow him better access. Later on he scratched at the front door when we were away, his separation anxiety getting the better of him. Eventually he learned that we were coming back and he stopped scratching the door. He is a fence fighter too, always listening in the backyard for the sound of the dogs that live behind us. If he hears them he tears to the back fence to do battle. He gets so excited that he chews the fence sometimes. We’re hopeful that, over time, he will realize that each time he fence fights he goes back in that house and that if he doesn’t fence fight he gets to stay outside - this might be a longer term project for us. His beagle nose leads him to food and he has encouraged us to put all our food much higher than we would have thought necessary. He reminds us when we forget, like the time he got up on the dining room table and plucked a bag of bagels out of Cathy’s bag and proceeded to eat 5 of the 6 bagels! When I came home there was a bagel in a plastic bag on the rug in the livingroom and pieces of bagels scattered around the floor and one stuffed beagle lying contentedly on the couch. Benny didn’t need dinner that night!
Benny loves other dogs and strains very much on the leash to go and see them. He howls his greetings and is so exuberant he sometimes startles the other dogs we meet. He came to us a wee bit on the portly side but he is now quite trim. He loves his walks and he holds his tail high as he wanders the trails, nose to the ground, ‘reading’ his pee-mail and enjoying the outdoors.
Benny is very affectionate with the two of us, often nuzzling his muzzle under our chins or resting his head on my lap as we watch TV together. He has a need to be touching both of us so he often stretches out on the couch so that his head rests against one of us while his feet are touching the other. He gets up with me in the morning to have his brekkie but then zooms back to bed to be a cuddle monkey with Cathy, he loves to sleep in!
I took Benny to obedience class to help make him more adoptable. Benny already knew sit and he instantly raises his paw when he sits. He learned ‘stay’ and ‘down’ (I’m actually most impressed with his down). Very vocal and exuberant in class he could be distracted at times. He really excelled at ‘come’ and a beagle’s love of food is truly a great motivator. I was quite proud of him when he took ‘top dog’ honours at obedience class (and more than a little surprised too).
It took Benny about five months to truly settle into our home. In that time we had ups and downs and we became strongly bonded. Benny had been in the program quite a long time and had endured multiple moves and disappointments. We didn’t want to see him have to start all over again. In the end Benny had already found his forever home - it had just taken us six months to realize it too. So we signed the paperwork and Benny is officially in his forever home (he doesn’t seem to have noticed any change at all!). We are thrilled and looking forward to a long, healthy and happy life together with Benny!!

Friday, May 21, 2010

Yard Sale to Support TAGS

Hooked on Saturday Morning Yard Sales???
Mark June 5th on your calender.
You'll find some gently used treasures and we'll also have some home made treats for your 4 legged friends!
35 Kingsview Crt, Courtice ~June 5th 8-2!
All proceeds to TAGS to help pay for some very hefty vet bills this year.

Thursday, May 20, 2010

Please Help Lucky









This little guy sure lives up to his name! He's lucky to be alive! He was hit by a car on Thursday night. His owners took him to the vet clinic, but were refused service without a credit card. The family called around to many different clinics and animal groups, but no one was willing to help. They contacted The Animal Guardian Society (TAGS), and we offered to cover the costs of the surgery so that this little guy can live. The family has turned their beloved pet over to TAGS so that he can get the help he needs. One of our volunteers rushed Lucky to the vet clinic, and they started his treatment. Lucky has a broken hip and a fractured pelvis and requires costly surgery to live without pain. The surgery will cost upwards of $3000. TAGS is a small rescue group, and our all volunteer program is known for never turning away an animal in need. There haven't been many times when we've needed to reach out to the community, but this is one of those times. Lucky needs your help and kindness!

As a non-profit charity TAGS has limited resources, and relies on the generosity of animal lovers such as yourself. Please help us help Lucky! All donations are tax deductible, and any amount helps! Please contribute by making a donation by visiting: Animal Guardian Donations or Canada Helps. Tax receipts will be issued.

If you've ever wanted to help an animal in need, now is the time! Help us give Lucky a second chance!

Tuesday, May 11, 2010

EUTHANIZATION OF 350 ANIMALS IN NEWMARKET

Please put a stop to this!

350 pets at the Newmarket Shelter are being euthanized because they have Ringworm. Ringworm is a treatable fungal infection - there is NO need for these innocent animals to die.

You can help. Call the OSPCA (Ontario Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals) at 416-325-0408 (or via email: yorkregion@ospca.ca). Let them know that you're calling to lodge a complaint regarding the euthanization at the Newmarket Shelter. The hope is that if they get enough complaints they will put a stop to this.

Please forward this email to everyone you know and lets put a stop to animal cruelty.

The animals thank you!

Saturday, April 24, 2010

Removing Ticks

Removing Ticks

Spring will be here soon and the ticks will soon be showing their heads. Here is a good way to get them off you, your children, or your pets. Give it a try.

Please forward to anyone with children... or hunters or dogs, or anyone who even steps outside in summer!!

A School Nurse has written the info below -- good enough to share -- And it really works!!

I had a pediatrician tell me what she believes is the best way to remove a tick. This is great, because it works in those places where it's some times difficult to get to with tweezers: between toes, in the middle of a head full of dark hair, etc.

Apply a glob of liquid soap to a cotton ball. Cover the tick with the soap-soaked cotton ball and swab it for a few seconds (15-20), the tick will come out on its own and be stuck to the cotton ball when you lift it away. This technique has worked every time I've used it (and that was frequently), and it's much less traumatic for the patient and easier for me.
Unless someone is allergic to soap, I can't see that this would be damaging in any way. I even had my doctor's wife call me for advice because she had one stuck to her back and she couldn't reach it with tweezers. She used this method and immediately called me back to say, "It worked!"

Please pass on. Everyone needs this helpful hint.

A Major Cause of Canine Disease

A Major Cause of Canine Disease
A team at Purdue University School of Veterinary Medicine conducted several studies 1,2 to determine if vaccines can cause changes in the immune system of dogs that might lead to life-threatening immune-mediated diseases. They obviously conducted this research because concern already existed. It was sponsored by the Haywood Foundation which itself was looking for evidence that such changes in the human immune system might also be vaccine induced. It found the evidence. The vaccinated, but not the non-vaccinated, dogs in the Purdue studies developed autoantibodies to many of their own biochemicals, including fibronectin, laminin, DNA, albumin, cytochrome C, cardiolipin and collagen.

Go to link below for complete article


http://odriscollhealthcare.weebly.com/vaccine-science.html

Heartworm by Jeffrey Levy. DVM

Heartworm by Jeffrey Levy. DVM

Heartworm Meds Danger -

This parasite is a source of great anxiety among dog caretakers. Thanks in large part to the scare tactics of many veterinarians in promoting preventive drugs, many people believe that contracting heartworms is the equivalent of a death sentence for their dogs. This is not true.

I practiced for seven years in the Santa Cruz, California area, and treated many dogs with heartworms. The only dogs that developed symptoms of heart failure were those that were being vaccinated yearly, eating commercial dog food, and getting suppressive drug treatment for other symptoms, such as skin problems. My treatment, at that time, consisted of switching to a natural (that is, homemade) diet, stopping drug treatment whenever possible, and eliminating any chemical exposure, such as flea and tick poisons. I would usually prescribe hawthorn tincture as well. None of these dogs ever developed any symptoms of heart failure. (danger of: vaccines, commercial petfood, and antibiotics)

I concluded from this that it was not the heartworms that caused disease, but the other factors that damaged the dogs' health to the point that they could no longer compensate for an otherwise tolerable parasite load. It is not really that different from the common intestinal roundworms, in that most dogs do not show any symptoms. Only a dog whose health is compromised is unable to tolerate a few worms. Furthermore, a truly healthy dog would not be susceptible to either type of worm in the first place.

It seems to me that the real problem is that allopathic attitudes have instilled in many of us a fear of disease, fear of pathogens and parasites, fear of rabies, as if these are evil and malicious entities just waiting to lay waste to a naive and unprotected public. Disease is not caused by viruses or by bacteria or by heartworm-bearing mosquitoes. Disease comes from within, and one aspect of disease can be the susceptibility to various pathogens. So the best thing to do is to address those susceptibilities on the deepest possible level, so that the pathogens will no longer be a threat. Most importantly, don't buy into the fear.

That having been said, there are practical considerations of risk versus benefit in considering heartworm prevention. The risk of a dog contracting heartworms is directly related to geographic location. In heavily infested areas the risk is higher, and the prospect of using a preventive drug more justifiable. Whatever you choose to do, a yearly blood test for heartworm microfilaria is important.

There are basically three choices with regard to heartworm prevention: drugs, nosodes, or nothing. There are currently a variety of heartworm preventive drugs, most of which are given monthly. I don't like any of them due to their toxicity, the frequency of side effects, and their tendency to antidote homeopathic remedies. Incidentally, the once-a-month preventives should be given only every 6 weeks.

The next option is the heartworm nosode. It has the advantage of at least not being a toxic drug. It has been in use it for over 10 years now, and I am reasonably confident that it is effective. It is certainly very safe. The biggest problem with the nosode is integrating it with homeopathic treatment. But at least it's less of a problem than with the drugs.

The last option, and in my opinion the best, is to do nothing. That is to say, do nothing to specifically prevent heartworm, but rather to minimize the chances of infestation by helping your dog to be healthier, and thereby less susceptible. This means avoiding those things that are detrimental to health, feeding a high quality homemade diet, regular exercise, a healthy emotional environment, and, most of all, constitutional homeopathic treatment. Of course, this will not guarantee that your dog will not get heartworms, but, under these conditions, even the worst-case scenario isn't so terrible. If your dog were to get heartworms, s/he shouldn't develop any symptoms as a result. For what it's worth, I never gave my dog any type of heartworm preventive, even when we lived in the Santa Cruz area where heartworms were very prevalent. I tested him yearly, and he never had a problem.

Are You Poisoning Your Pet with Toxic Flea and Tick Products?

Are You Poisoning Your Pet with Toxic Flea and Tick Products?

Each year, Americans purchase and apply to their pets a vast array of toxic chemicals intended to kill fleas and ticks. These include collars, sprays, 100% Safe Natural Organic Flea and Tick control for all animalsdusts and more. Other pet owners take their pets to veterinarians to be dipped in chemicals. Many consumers probably assume that the products they and their vets use have been subjected to rigorous testing, and must, by virtue of their very ubiquity, be safe. After all, how could the government let deadly poisons be sold on grocery store Natural Organic Flea and Tick Control for All Animalsshelves without applying stringent standards?

Spot-On Pesticides such as Frontline, Zodiac, Defend, Bio Spot, Adams and Advantage trigger adverse reactions in dogs and cats, shorten life spans, cause terminal illness, and premature death. . The active ingredients in these solutions include chemicals such as imidacloprid, fipronil, permethrin, methoprene, and pyriproxyfen, all of which have caused serious health problems in animals in laboratories.2 Even some of the inert ingredients can be hazardous to your animal companion’s health. Other forms of flea control—powders, collars, and sprays—are no less dangerous to you or your companion animals. Labels may warn not to get these substances on your skin, to wash your hands after applying it, and to keep it away from children, yet these chemicals are absorbed by your animal’s skin. Immediate effects of pesticide overdose include vomiting, diarrhea, trembling, seizures, and respiratory problems. If your dog or cat shows any of these symptoms after the application of a pesticide, immediately wash the product off and seek veterinary care. Learn about Safe and Effective Flea, Tick and Lice Prenvention and Eradication

Friday, April 16, 2010

Help Find Tommy

LOST
BRING TOMMY HOME
REWARD!!!!!


Our beloved TOMMY, a 9 year old, 45 pound, friendly, German Shepherd, is LOST.

Last seen Thursday, April 15 at 9pm AT 23 BOYTON RD IN THE DAVISVILLE VILLAGE AREA.

Tommy is microchipped.

If you see him or find him, please call 416-484-1108 or 647-296-5647.

Monday, April 12, 2010

Bake Sale a Success!!

Thanks to Elaine for putting this together and everyone who donated baking and
came out and made a purchase!

The Sale raised over $500.00, awesome!!!

Since we have been hit with some high vet care lately this will be a huge help!!

Love our TAGS Team, what a great bunch of Volunteers who give so much of themselves
for the animals!

Tuesday, April 6, 2010

Humane Society

From the Toronto Sun today:

Animals are biggest losers in Humane Society dispute: Worthington

By Peter Worthington




After months of turmoil, arrests for alleged cruelty, accusations hurled back and forth, the Toronto Humane Society is back in control ... of the Toronto Humane Society.

The OSPCA “raided” and took over the THS some six months ago, removing its president, head veterinarian and others in handcuffs, charging them with cruelty.

As hearings were to go before the Ontario Superior Court to have the THS board of directors thrown out, a deal was cut with the OSPCA for the board to resign.

Instead, the THS will take over control of their animal shelter and shut it down for two months, cleaning up the joint, re-training staff, and electing a new board of directors whom Justice David Brown urged to show “vigilance and diligence” to ensure things don’t get out of control.

So what’s the net result of the crisis that shocked the local animal world?

Eleven hundred animals housed in the shelter at the time of the celebrated OSPCA raid — well-attended by media who’d been forewarned — have been reduced to around 200. Most of these will be disposed of before the THS re-opens.

So what has happened to the other 900 animals?

The OSPCA says some were adopted, some went into foster care, some to the OSPCA, some to Toronto Animal Services (TAS). The sick or injured were euthanized.

Put bluntly, it seems a safe bet that most of the animals were put down — killed, because that’s what the OSPCA and TAS does best. Gone, forever, is the THS’ reluctance to kill. Its celebrated 7% kill rate under President Tim Trow is no more. It’s likely to rise to the 50% rate of other shelters.

Go ask the TAS what cats and dogs they have for adoption. They’ll likely tell you none are available at the moment and that they euthanize on Fridays — which is fair enough, since the TAS is more a pound than an animal care centre.

At the time it was raided, THS policy was not to kill healthy animals even those that couldn’t be adopted. Volunteers walked dogs daily, and there was a foster care program for others. Adoption more or less hinged on what the person could pay.

In this sense it was more “humane” that many humane societies.

Even on Monday, THS spokesman Ian McConachie assured the public that animals are not being destroyed. “We are not abandoning the animals in our care and simply putting them down.”

No question, the THS erred on the side of not killing — even for animals it would be humane to euthanize. Directors may have been negligent, inattentive or wrong, but proving “cruelty” may be difficult.

In short, if the THS couldn’t get a dog or cat adopted, no one could. Torontonians who pay attention to animals, know this.

Which is why I’m uneasy about the Association to Reform the Toronto Humane Society (ART), which wants the current board members banned from running for election again.

Not very “democratic.” There’s a vigilante or vindictive quality to ART.

A new board may well include people like acting President Bob Hambley, who for decades has served on THS boards, and seems ideal for bridging the gap.

Some 3,000 THS members should know the personalities of those they elect, just as they know most of the animals the OSPCA rescued form THS “cruelty” have likely since been dispatched to the Great Kennel in the Sky. Some rescue!


*

Sunday, February 28, 2010

Adoptions Are Crazy!

Very happy to report that our adoptions are really going well!
This week alone we have 4-5 home visits!
Most of the dogs being adopted are dogs that were rescued from local shelters.
We owe a great thank you to our foster homes, without them we could not save
these animals.

Foster home are really needed as we head into the spring season and shelters fill
quickly.
If you have ever thought of becoming a foster family please contact us for further
information.

Saturday, February 20, 2010

Rest in Peace Daddy

You may or may not be a fan of Cesar Millan, but if you have ever watched his pitbull
Daddy you have to be a fan of this wonderful dog.
Daddy gave a side that people often never hear of, that Pitbulls are well behaved
loving dogs.
I always loved they way he would waddle behind Cesar on the Dog Whisper show, such
a funny old dog.
At 16 years of age, it still seems to young. As all dog lovers and animals lovers
would say our pets leave us far too young.
So rest in peace Daddy, and maybe one day we will meet in that big dog house in the sky.



Cesar Millan, all his family and friends, his staff and volunteers, and dog lovers all around the world today will mourn the passing of one of the most loyal, trusting, well-balanced, and influential pit bull ambassadors the world has ever known. Daddy, Cesar's longtime friend and partner in canine rehabilitation, died peacefully surrounded by family on Friday the 19th of February. He was sixteen years old.

He lived each day of those sixteen years happy and fulfilled as Cesar's right-hand-"man," helping to shape the behavior of entire generations of dogs by showing them the way to balance. He stood as champion for calm-submissive pit bulls everywhere, and was instrumental in helping to repair their image as violent, savage, uncontrollable beasts. He successfully battled cancer and weathered chemotherapy, and even got the opportunity to present at the 56th Annual Creative Arts Emmy Awards!

His name is now added to that honorable roster of dogs gone by whose influence is still felt today, and which includes some of Cesar's beloved childhood heroes: "Rin-Tin-Tin." "Lassie." ... "Daddy."

He has been immortalized by Dog Whisperer fans in all mediums, from painting, to photographs, to charcoal drawings and papier-mâché sculpture. And, of course, he lives on in his work, reflected in the balance and calm-submission of his protégé Junior, the countless animals to whom he was a positive role model, and in the hearts and minds of everyone who knew him as a calm, sweet, and mellow example of a widely misunderstood breed.

In Loving Memory.





If you would like to express your sympathy, post a comment on Daddy's memorial page or send a message through our contact form. Select the category "Express my condolences for Daddy's passing" to ensure it goes to the correct email address.





To honor Daddy's legacy, the Daddy's Emergency Animal Rescue ["DEAR"] Fund has been established by the Cesar and Ilusion Millan Foundation.

The DEAR Fund will provide assistance for dogs who are victims of abuse or violence, man-made disasters, and large-scale natural disasters.

If you would like to honor Daddy's memory and the contributions he made to improve the lives of animals, you can make a donation by visiting MillanFoundation.org/daddyfund

www.cesarsway.com | www.millanfoundation.org

Spay Neuter Durham

On Thursday Feb. 18th, a group of animal rescue volunteers gathered to discuss
opening a spay neuter clinic in Durham Region.

This project has a long way to go, but with the support of our community we can
make this clinic a reality.

Show your support by joining our Facebook page at spayneuterdurham

Fundraising events are needed, donations, volunteer experienced in writing grant
proposals.
If you have a talent that we can use please step up and join the team!

Friday, January 1, 2010

Vick proves he doesn't know the meaning of courage

Vick proves he doesn't know the meaning of 'courage'
Published: December 29, 2009



By WALTER and

ROSEMARY BRASCH

The Philadelphia Eagles honored reserve quarterback and admitted dog-killer Michael Vick with an award for courage. Yes, you read that right. "Michael Vick" and "courage" are in the same sentence.

Each of the 32 NFL teams annually honors one of its own with an Ed Block award, named for the Baltimore Colts head trainer who was an advocate for improving the lives of neglected and abused children; the Foundation says it celebrates "players of inspiration in the NFL." Unfortunately, there is no stipulation that football players who abuse animals are ineligible receivers.

Eagles' quarterback Donovan McNabb told the Philadelphia Inquirer the award was "well deserved." Vick, his team, and what appears to be a loyal foundation of fans who believe Vick will help lead the Eagles into a Super Bowl, all believe the man who ran Bad Newz Kennels has "seen the light," has reformed, and is now a model citizen.

However, Vick's own words show the humility and humbleness that he should have are still missing from his egocentric world of sweating multi-millionaires.

"It means a great deal to me," Vick told the media, gloating that he "was voted unanimously by my teammates. They know what I've been through. I've been through a lot. It's been great to come back and have an opportunity to play and be with a great group of guys. I'm just ecstatic about that, and I enjoy every day." He further justified the honor by explaining, "I've overcome a lot, more than probably one single individual can handle or bear." Elaborating, he declared, "You ask certain people to walk through my shoes, they probably couldn't do. Probably 95 percent of the people in this world because nobody had to endure what I've been through, situations I've been put in, situations I put myself in and decisions I have made, whether they have been good or bad."

He said, "There's always consequences behind certain things and repercussions behind them, too. And then you have to wake up every day and face the world, whether they perceive you in the right perspective, it's a totally different outlook on you. You have to be strong, believe in yourself, be optimistic. That's what I've been able to do. That's what I display." Not once in his statements to the media did Michael Vick apologize for what he did, or for the deals he cut in order to be restored to the status of a millionaire athlete. Everything he said was focused upon his own "courage," with "I" being the prevalent word.

Perhaps Michael Vick isn't aware that courage is not being so vacuous as to believe it was acceptable to breed and arrange for dogs to fight to the death, to allow equally malevolent "fans" to bet on the matches, and by the cruelest means possible to kill dogs who didn't perform as well as he thought they should. Going to prison for 18 months, losing two seasons of multimillion dollar income, having to work out to get into fighting condition, and then earning about $1.6 in his first year back into the NFL, with a second year option for about $5 million, isn't courage.

In case Michael Vick doesn't know what courage is, here are just a few examples. There are thousands of others.

Courage is the soldier who is on 100 percent disability from combat wounds who is now working almost every hour of every day with physical therapists, social workers, and other medical personnel to try to regain even the most remote possibility of being able to walk again.

Courage is the firefighters who risk their lives to rescue people and their pets from burning buildings.

Courage is law enforcement personnel who put their lives on the line to serve and protect the people.

Courage is the "whistle blower" who risks a job and family stability to point out greed and corruption within a business, educational institution, or governmental agency.

Courage is the lone dissenter who fights for social and economic justice in a society that is determined to continue the "me generation."

Courage is the recent graduate who delays entry into the job market, the mid-career executive who gives up the fast track, or the senior citizen who decides there is more to life than retirement, and volunteers for AmeriCorps, the Peace Corps, or any of hundreds of non-profit organizations that have taken on the burden of helping those who society has made invisible.

Courage is the parents who work two low-income service jobs, support their families, and still donate time and money to charities that help those less fortunate than they.

Courage is the family who last year had a home and job, and this year has neither but survives day to day.

Courage is the animal rights advocates who risk their lives to fight against governments that allow the killing of whales, bears, seals, wolves, and hundreds of other animals; and to humane society staff and innumerable volunteers who rescue abandoned and abused animals, and who work with them to try to give them a better life.

But most important, courage is all the people who know no matter what obstacles they overcome today, tomorrow will present the same challenges, and that they will never have any hope to be a millionaire or to receive an award for surviving against tremendous odds.

In his comments after being notified of the award, Michael Vick proved himself to be an unworthy spokesman for anything or anyone other than himself.

Dr. Walter Brasch is an award-winning social issues columnist, former newspaper investigative reporter and editor, and journalism professor. His latest book is Sinking the Ship of State: The Presidency of George W. Bush. Rosemary Brasch is a former secretary, Red Cross national disaster family services specialist, labor activist, and university instructor of labor studies.
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