Ask the APCC: Grape Expectations?

I've heard that grapes are poisonous to dogs. Yes or no?
-Sheila C.

Yes, Sheila. We now know that grapes and raisins appear to cause renal failure in dogs who have ingested large amounts. However, we have not determined with certainty the toxic component, or the exact mechanism that causes renal failure. It is also not clear if only certain dogs are affected, or if repeated ingestion over a longer-term can lead to the same effects that a large one-time ingestion can. Because there are still many unknowns regarding the toxic potential of grapes and raisins, it is advisable not to give grapes or raisins to dogs in any amount.

More new questions:

- Is it safe for dogs to eat popcorn?

- Is the Angel's Trumpet vine harmful to dogs if chewed?

- I would like to give cranberries to my dogs to prevent urinary tract infections. Is this safe?

Get a Head Start on Your Holiday Shopping!

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Last Chance to Submit Your Dog Photo!

The deadline for Dog Photo Contest submissions is tomorrow, October 31st! Don't miss the opportunity to show of your furry friend and win some prizes!

Enter the 2006 ASPCA Dog Photo Contest!

Shelters Only: Attention, shelter staffers and employees. Are there any dogs who have been at your shelter for a long—too long—time? Any sweet, shy guys and gals who always seem to be overlooked? This is your chance to promote your “diamond-in-the-ruff” on the ASPCA’s website. Submit a photo of a dog at your shelter!

Top 10 Halloween Safety Tips

Attention, companion animal caretakers! The ASPCA would like to call your attention to these common-sense cautions that’ll help keep your pets safe and stress-free this time of year.

1. No tricks, no treats: That bowlful of candy is for trick-or-treaters, not for Scruffy and Fluffy. Chocolate in all forms can be very dangerous for dogs and cats, and tin foil and cellophane candy wrappers can be hazardous if swallowed. If you suspect your pet has ingested a potentially dangerous substance, please call your veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435.

2. Popular Halloween plants such as pumpkins and decorative corn are considered to be relatively nontoxic, yet they can produce gastrointestinal upset should pets ingest them. Intestinal blockage could even occur if large pieces are ingested.

3. Keep wires and cords from electric lights and other decorations out of reach of your pets. If chewed, your pet could experience damage to his mouth from shards of glass or plastic, or receive a possibly life-threatening electrical shock.

Click here to read more halloween safety tips...

Tags: ASPCA, Halloween, Pet Care

ASPCA in the News: "Tabby's kitten was killed, now she needs a new home"

Staten Island Advance

Call her "Lucky Penny."

The two-year-old tabby cat, who allegedly was almost killed by a raging Port Richmond man last month, underwent surgery yesterday and will be up for adoption to a loving home in a few weeks.

"She's been through an enormous amount and she is still trusting," said Gail Buchwald, vice president of adoption and mobile clinics at the Manhattan ASPCA. "She loves to be held and is sweet as can be. She really needs to be treated like a princess."

Read the rest of the article ...

Ask the Pet Nutrition Service: Could Stress Cause Weight Loss in Shelter Dogs?

I am writing about the dogs in the animal shelter where I volunteer. Many of them lose weight after a few weeks, and some even become noticeably thin. Some of the dogs do have chronic diarrhea, but there seems to be nothing to account for the weight loss in others. They are fed one meal a day, and all seem to have good appetites. Our animal control officer believes the weight loss is caused by the stress of shelter life. Could this be true—and do shelter dogs need more food than is recommended for pets in homes?
—Tina

Animals who are stressed may indeed require more food than recommended by the manufacturer. Keep in mind that the feeding guidelines on any bag of food are just guidelines—a good place to start. The actual amount may need to be adjusted after careful evaluation of an animal's status. Some sedentary dogs may require less than what is recommended on a given bag of food to prevent unwanted weight gain; on the other hand, very active dogs, working dogs and stressed animals (including those who are kenneled), may require more than is recommended. We suggest that your shelter consider, with input from a veterinarian, increasing the ration for the dogs in the shelter. You may also want to move to twice-per-day feeding.

The chronic diarrhea that you mention could be associated with a number of things—including, but not limited to, stress, giardia, other parasites or viral disease. It would be best to involve a veterinarian if you haven't already done so. If the veterinarian is able to diagnose the cause of the diarrhea, you may be able to treat the animals and prevent future problems. Chronic diarrhea can absolutely be contributing to the weight loss in the affected animals.

The nutritional status of individual dogs should be evaluated regularly, and the amount and/or type of food should be adjusted as needed. Good luck!

Ask the APCC: Talking Turkey

I heard that raw turkey could be toxic to dogs. Is this true?
—Calleen G.

The feeding of raw turkey or other uncooked meat could potentially cause problems for dogs, Calleen, especially if the meat is contaminated with harmful parasites or bacteria, such as certain strains of E. coli or Salmonella. If you would like to add additional meat or other protein to your dog's diet, we suggest talking with your regular veterinarian in order to determine the most appropriate nutritional program for your pet.

More new questions:

- Our 100 pound mixed-breed dog eats Nandina berries. Are these poisonous, as well as the foliage?

- Are air purifiers with ozone producers safe to use around pets such as my hamster and parakeet?

- I have heard that homemade play dough could make dogs ill. Is this true?

Happy HOWL-o-Ween!

Check out some of our furry friends across the country who especially love October 31.

Visit the Halloween Photo Album...

HORSE'N Around With the ASPCA

Left to right: Dylan Lauren, ASPCA president Ed Sayres, Maria Menounos and Alison Kelly smile for paparazzi at the ASPCA's recent Young Friends fundraiser, "HORSE'N Around."

New at the ASPCA Online Store: Show Off Your Charms

Keep us—and the animals—close to your heart with our sterling silver necklace and keychain.

Press Release: ASPCA Applauds Gov. Rendell’s Proactive Steps to Improve Animal Welfare in Pennsylvania

NEW YORK, October 17, 2006—The ASPCA® (The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals®) today applauded Gov. Edward G. Rendell’s proactive steps to overhaul animal welfare conditions in Pennsylvania, including his appointment of two key officials in specially-created positions, his proposed regulatory and legislative changes to the existing Dog Law.

“The ASPCA has been working with Governor Rendell and his staff in an advisory capacity for some time now to revamp animal welfare conditions in the state of Pennsylvania,” said ASPCA President Ed Sayres. “We have been impressed by the Governor’s obvious commitment to animal welfare and to improving conditions in state-licensed kennels, which have been operating in open violation of the existing Dog Law. Both the appointments and proposed changes announced by the Governor today are an important first step in making Pennsylvania a humane community we can all be proud of, and will directly impact the quality of life of dogs all over the state.”

Read the rest of this press release...

Tags: ASPCA, Animal Welfare

Press Release: ASPCA and Illinois RICP to Partner on “Animal Rescue and Restore” Innovative Catastrophic Event Planning Program

NEW YORK, October 16, 2006—On September 29, 2006, the United States Department of Homeland Security announced a $1,516,040 award to the Illinois Regional Institute for Community Policing (RICP) to develop, implement and disseminate programs that ensure coordination of preparedness, response, and recovery efforts for individuals, communities, and agencies affecting the welfare and safety of animals during a disaster. The ASPCA^® (The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals^®) is extremely proud to partner with the RICP on this unique project that has the potential to save countless human and animal lives.

Recent disasters exemplified that the human-animal bond affects large segments of the human population. Mindful that no community is exempt from these concerns, disaster preparedness and response strategies must be developed. “Animal problems are people problems," says Dr. Patricia Rushing, Interim Director of the Regional Institute for Community Policing. "If disaster planning does not take into account the unique bond between people and the animals they consider family, then planning falls tragically short. It is time to expand collaboration, communication, and cooperation for more successful all-hazard planning and response. I am delighted that the ASPCA has agreed to assist us in our Animal Rescue and Restore project,” continues Dr. Rushing.

Read the rest of this press release...

Ask the APCC: Is Pseudoephedrine Dangerous to Dogs?

Is the nasal decongestant pseudoephedrine safe to give to a dog for incontinence? —Stephanie L.

Depending on the circumstances of exposure, Stephanie, pseudoephedrine can be very harmful or even deadly to pets, and therefore we would not advise giving it to your dog. Since many medications and nutritional supplements meant for human use can be harmful to pets, we strongly recommend consulting with your regular veterinarian to get advice on an appropriate medication that will meet your dog's needs.

More new questions:

- Are my dogs able to eat American cheese?

- Is it OK to put pepper on my dog’s food?

- I am a rescuer that places trap-neuter-release cats in barn situations so they have a safe place to live. One lady who is interested in taking some cats has a rat problem in her barn, and wants to use rat poison, as well as the cats, to get rid of the rats. Could the poison be a problem for the cats?

More Meow Than Ever!: Cat Vocalizations

As independent hunters, cats have little need for an extensive vocal repertory. Cat-to-cat vocalizations are generally limited to communicating with one's kittens, one's sexual partners and one's potential enemies. There is also an array of vocalizations used by our furry friends when they attempt to communicate with us.

By changing volume, intensity and number of repetitions of the vocalizations and backing them up with expressive body language and olfactory signaling, cats ensure their messages are received and that their needs are met.

Read the rest of the article...

Ask the Pet Nutrition: Refuse Food Problem

I adopted my four-year-old Pomeranian, Trixie, from my local shelter last year. I have tried to give her canned dog food since day one, but she will not eat it. I have her on dry food right now, but she will only take a few bites. She doesn’t even like dog treats.

I often feed her people food, because she was so used to eating it in her prior home. When I try withholding it, she refuses to eat anything else. I do walk her, but other than that she is not very playful. How can I fix this problem?
—Catherine

Thank you for contacting the ASPCA Pet Nutrition Service, Catherine. It sounds like Trixie is being finicky and is holding out for people food. It is important that Trixie eats a high-quality dog food that will provide her with all of the nutrients she needs.

- First, choose a high-quality brand of food that is formulated for Trixie’s age, breed size, and activity level. Your vet or veterinary technician can provide some great suggestions.
- We recommend that you use the timed feeding method. If you would like to use dry food, the food can be placed in Trixie’s bowl for 30 minutes. After that time, remove any food that she has not eaten. You should offer her food twice a day using this method, and be sure to feed her at the same times, consistently and regularly.
- You may also want to add a little canned food to the dry food—this often stimulates a finicky dog to eat.
- Eliminate all in-between-meal treats, at least until she is eating her meals regularly.
- Make sure that Trixie is confined to another room when you are eating, so you will not be tempted to give her some table food—nor will she have the opportunity to beg for it.
- Take Trixie on a walk right before feeding time. This might help to stimulate her appetite and will improve her energy level.

Please keep in mind that your dog will likely hold out for awhile, hoping that you will cave in and give her people food. With your veterinarian’s approval, it shouldn’t hurt for her to miss a few meals during this time. Good luck to you and Trixie!

Tags: ASPCA, Pet Care, Nutrition

Press Release: ASPCA Hails Passage of PETS Act

(NEW YORK, NY) October 11, 2006 -- The ASPCA^® (The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals^®) applauds the signing of the Pets Evacuation and Transportation Standards (PETS) Act into law by President George W. Bush late last week. The new law represents a significant move in ensuring that the needs of those with pets and service animals are taken into account when planning for disasters and emergencies.

“This law clearly acknowledges the very special place pets have in our lives and hearts,” said Ed Sayres, president of the ASPCA. “When America was ravaged by natural disasters last year, the thought of giving up or leaving behind their pets was heart wrenching for the thousands of Americans in the affected areas.”

Read the rest of this press release...

Ask the APCC: Is Bacon Fat Where It's At?

My aunt puts bacon or sausage grease and fat drippings on her dogs’ food; she says it’s good for them. Is this true? If it’s not good for us, how can it be good for them?
—Theresa B.

Good question, Theresa. While dogs do need certain types of fats in their diet, the consumption of significant amounts of bacon or sausage grease (either in one sitting or habitually) could potentially cause vomiting and diarrhea—or even a life-threatening inflammatory condition of the pancreas known as pancreatitis. In addition, these cured meats contain a lot of sodium, which could also be harmful in large quantities. You might suggest that your aunt talk with her veterinarian if she feels that her dogs may be in need of a nutritional supplement.

More new questions:

- Are gladiolas toxic to cats?

- I am making treats for my dogs and would like to color the white yogurt coating I'm going to use to decorate them. Are yogurt and food coloring that’s made for human consumption safe for pets?

- If I pet my cats soon after using dry skin lotion on my hands, will it harm them when they groom themselves?

Ask the APCC: Antifreeze Spills

Yesterday, my neighbors spilled some antifreeze on their driveway, which they washed off. They were kind enough to let us know what happened, but how long do I need to keep my pets away before it isn’t hazardous any more?
—Caryn D.

Good question, Caryn! First, kudos to your neighbors for being responsible by alerting you to the spill. Once the area has been allowed to dry and there are no puddles, your pets should be able to reenter, as the ethylene glycol antifreeze would no longer be accessible for consumption.

More new questions:

- Are all types of cherry trees poisonous to dogs?

- I just received a Dendrobium orchid plant. Is it safe for my cat?

- We have a locust tree that drops large brown pods. Are these poisonous to pets?

Press Release: Introducing ASPCA Pet Health Insurance

(NEW YORK, NY) October 3, 2006 -- The ASPCA^® (The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals^®) today announced a brand-new offering that will improve the quality of life for pets and pet parents throughout the United States, and that comes with the backing of the country’s oldest animal welfare organization: ASPCA Pet Health Insurance. While pet insurance has been growing in popularity in recent years, this is the first product of its kind to be developed for and branded by a national animal welfare organization. For more information, please visit www.aspcapetinsurance.com.

“The ASPCA is committed to constantly trying to improve the quality of life for pets and pet parents,” said ASPCA President & CEO Ed Sayres. “Veterinary costs are an important part of animal care, and have been rising by approximately six percent annually. Too often, pet parents are faced with an impossible choice: the health, sometimes survival, of their pets or their financial wellbeing. No one should have to make such a decision. With the many plan options provided by ASPCA Pet Health Insurance, our hope is that pet parents will breathe easier, and pets will live longer, healthier lives.”

Read the rest of this press release...

ASPCA in the News: Raise the Woof Tonight for Gimme Shelter!

New York Post: BEASTIE-REALITY

Ad-Rock and Other Local Luminaries Team Up to Save City Animals

October 4, 2006 -- The goal is to raise awareness - and hopefully some money - to turn all of New York City's animal shelters into no-kill operations by 2010. Sponsored by the ASPCA and the volunteer artist collaborative Rational Animal, the show “should make for an interesting night,” promises Beastie Adam (“Ad-Rock”) Horovitz.

“I'm just a dog guy,” explains Horovitz, seated alongside his canine sidekick, Roberta “Bobbi” Peterson, a mixed breed he rescued from a shelter in April 2005, when she was roughly three years old.

Along with his now decades-old band, Horovitz has become something of a do-gooder, speaking out against war, religious persecution and, now, the inhumane treatment of animals.

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Press Release: Guard Against Ghoulish Goodies: Keep Your Pets Safe From Halloween Hazards

ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center Offers Poison Safety Tips For Pet Owners

(Urbana, IL) October 2, 2006 — The arrival of Halloween brings fun parties, trick-or-treaters, and lots of delicious candies. However, some of the same goodies and decorations we humans are fond of can be potentially hazardous to our pets. The ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center is offering pet owners some helpful hints to keep their pets healthy and safe during Halloween.

- Halloween treats with chocolate are not appropriate for pets. Depending on the dose ingested, chocolate (baker's, semisweet, milk and dark) can be potentially poisonous to many animals. In general, the less sweet the chocolate, the more toxic it could be. In fact, unsweetened baking chocolate contains almost seven times more theobromine than milk chocolate. Vomiting, diarrhea, seizures, hyperactivity and increased thirst, urination and heart rate can be seen with the ingestion of as little as 1/4 ounce of baking chocolate by a 10-pound dog.

Read the rest of our Halloween Safety Tips...

Press Release: ASPCA HLE Officers Seize 700 Chickens

(NEW YORK, NY) October 3, 2006 -- Humane Law Enforcement agents with the ASPCA are investigating a possible case of animal cruelty in which hundreds of chickens were discovered in a garage at 18th Avenue and 52nd Street in Brooklyn.

On Monday, ASPCA investigators removed more than 700 chickens, housed in shallow crates, and took them to the ASPCA’s 92nd Street headquarters, where they will be evaluated by veterinary staff at the ASPCA’s Bergh Memorial Animal Hospital.

Read the rest of this press release...