News Alert: June 18, 2010

1. ASPCA Happy Tails: Archie & Friends

When the Giant Schnauzer mix formerly known as Yin Yang was surrendered to the ASPCA, he was a baby with an oversized frame and energy to burn. He finally found the right match when Wendy Giman of Manhattan gave the big boy a chance. Below, Wendy talks about Archie—as she has dubbed him—and his goofball charm.

ASPCA: When did you first meet Archie? Wendy: I first met Archie on August 9, 2009. After seeing him on the ASPCA website, I went to the Adoption Center specifically to meet him. When they brought him into the room, he stood up, snatched stuffed animals from the windowsill, and just went crazy. But then Kristi, the behaviorist, and I took him for a walk, and he was calm as he leaned against my leg—I was smitten. I returned a few days later with a friend and walked Archie again. He seemed even calmer. The next day I prepared my apartment for his arrival, and on August 14, I adopted him.

ASPCA: Do you have any other pets? Wendy: My residential complex only recently changed its rules to allow dogs after a strict policy of no pets. I would walk other people's dogs to get my fix, and almost bought a Bouvier from a breeder but then realized it was better to adopt.

ASPCA: How has Archie settled into his new home? Wendy: It's definitely Archie's home; he just lets me stay there. He has taken over my large leather chair and likes to look out the window.

ASPCA: Does he have any funny habits? Wendy: Archie licks my face or my toes if I'm not out of bed in the morning, and then just goes back to sleep. And though he's not allowed on my bed, he lobbies for it every once in awhile. Even though he weighs 86 pounds, he manages to sneak on the bed until I realize it and kick him off. He also likes to burrow in my bedroom closet and leaves no place unexplored. Sometimes when I take a shower, he jumps in with his two front paws. He's very goofy and sometimes trips himself or trips on things when he runs.

ASPCA: What does Archie mean to you and your family? Wendy: He is my family. My sister and nieces love him. It was an adjustment at first, since Archie is a bit like Marmaduke (he's about five feet tall when he stands on his back legs!). He likes to keep me company in the kitchen when I cook, but takes up half of the floor space so I hop around him. It's worth it. He's just a wonderful, goofy love bug.

Read more true stories of furry fate in our Happy Tails archive.

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2. Hey, Animal Lovers: Win Tickets to Lilith Fair!

This summer, the ASPCA is thrilled to be partnering with Lilith Fair, the one-of-a-kind, touring festival featuring music megastars including Sheryl Crow, Norah Jones, Rihanna, Emmylou Harris and tour co-founder and ASPCA supporter Sarah McLachlan. In the spirit of the tour's generosity—the festival donates a large portion of its proceeds to various national and international women's charities—the ASPCA is treating 30 supporters to two free tickets to attend the show in their town. And one lucky grand prize winner will receive a guitar signed by the touring artists!

If you know a courageous woman who has made great strides in improving the lives of animals, we want to hear from you! We're looking for female animal activists who are especially dedicated to combating cruelty and pet homelessness. In 300 words or less, please tell us why you are nominating this admirable heroine—and don't forget to include a photo.

We're accepting submissions on a rolling basis through early August, so don't miss out! To learn more about the contest or to submit a nomination, please visit our Lilith Fair Contest page.

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3. Groundbreaking Dog Fighting DNA Database Launched

Earlier this week, the ASPCA announced the launch of the nation's first criminal dog fighting DNA database, known as the Canine CODIS (Combined DNA Index System). Similar to the FBI's human CODIS—a computerized archive that stores the DNA profiles of criminal offenders and crime scene evidence—the Canine CODIS contains the individual DNA profiles of dogs who have been seized during dog fighting investigations and from samples collected at suspected dog fighting venues. This new, state-of-the-art system will provide an essential tool for law enforcement to prosecute dog fighting cases nationwide.

"Dog fighting is a multi-million dollar criminal enterprise that contributes to the cruel treatment and deaths of thousands of dogs nationwide every year," says Tim Rickey, the ASPCA's Senior Director of Field Investigations and Response. "This database is a vital component in the fight against animal cruelty and will allow us to strengthen cases against animal abusers and seek justice for their victims."

During an investigation, seized dogs will have their cheeks swabbed, and their DNA will be searched against the Canine CODIS database. Matching results will help law enforcement agencies identify relationships between dogs, and enable investigators to establish connections between breeders, trainers and dog fighters.

"Juries expect forensic science to support the evidence that's presented to them, and animal cruelty cases are no exception," says ASPCA Forensic Veterinarian Dr. Melinda Merck, who testifies in animal cruelty cases around the country. "This database breaks new ground in supplying that evidence for dog fighting investigations."

The ASPCA worked in conjunction with the Humane Society of Missouri (HSMO) and the Louisiana SPCA (LA/SPCA) to develop the Canine CODIS. The system will be maintained at the University of California, Davis (UC Davis) Veterinary Genetics Laboratory.

For more information on the Canine CODIS database, visit our Crime Scene Investigations section.

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4. Hot Fun in the Summertime: Pet Safety Tips

As summer gets into full swing, the ASPCA wants to remind pet parents that our four-legged friends can be harmed by hot weather just like we can: dehydration, heat stroke and sunburn can take a toll on even the healthiest cat or dog. Keep your animal companions happy and safe by taking these simple precautions:

Made in the Shade Pets can get dehydrated quickly, so give them plenty of fresh, clean water when it's hot. Make sure your pets have a shady place to get out of the sun, be careful to not over-exercise them, and keep them indoors when it's extremely hot.

Know the Warning Signs Symptoms of overheating in pets include excessive panting or difficulty breathing, increased heart and respiratory rate, drooling, mild weakness, stupor or even collapse, seizures, bloody diarrhea and vomit, along with an elevated body temperature of over 104 degrees. Remember, animals with flat faces, like Pugs and Persian cats, are more susceptible to heat stroke since they cannot pant as effectively.

No Parking! Never leave animals alone in a parked vehicle. "On a hot day, a parked car can become a furnace in no time—even with the windows open—which could lead to fatal heat stroke," says Dr. Louise Murray, Director of Medicine at ASPCA Bergh Memorial Animal Hospital. Leaving pets unattended in cars in extreme weather is illegal in several states.

Beware of "High Rise Syndrome" "During warmer months, we see an increase in injured animals as a result of 'High-Rise Syndrome,' which occurs when pets fall out of windows or doors and are seriously or fatally injured," says Dr. Murray. This condition is completely preventable. Keep all unscreened windows or doors in your home closed and make sure adjustable screens are tightly secured.

Summer Style Giving a dog a summer haircut—not too short, so they still have some protection from the sun—and brushing cats can prevent problems caused by excessive heat. As far as skin care, be sure that any sunscreen or insect repellent product you use on your pets is labeled specifically for use on animals.

Please visit our website's Pet Care section for our complete list of hot weather safety tips!

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5. One-Stop Summer Shopping for People and Pets!

If you haven't visited the ASPCA's Online Store in a while, you're in for a pleasant surprise! We've added tons of new items in trendy fits and colors—we're especially excited about our high-quality message tees and our new line of men's and women's flip-flops, which leave paw prints in the sand as you walk!

Summer Fun Surf's up! Hit the beach with our colorful new line of insulated bags, towels and summer accessories.

Kool Dogz Ice Treat Maker Create customizable icy treats that are perfect for keeping pooches cool and entertained outdoors.

No Excuse Tee A soft shirt that makes a strong statement ("There's no excuse for animal abuse"), this men's fitted tee is made of 100% fine, breathable jersey cotton. Available in sizes Small through 3XL.

You can feel good about shopping with us, because all net proceeds of your purchases go to support our life-saving programs. For more tees, toys, gifts and pet supplies, visit the ASPCA Online Store—we're open 24 hours a day, seven days a week!

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