Pet Poison Q & A: Ibuprofen & Dogs Don't Mix

Can I give children’s ibuprofen to my Jack Russell terrier?
―Edna H.

Edna, ibuprofen can potentially be very dangerous for dogs. Depending on the dose, it could cause significant gastric irritation and kidney damage. Therefore, we would advise against giving it to your pet. In fact, because many human medicines can be harmful or even deadly to animals depending on the type and dose given, it is important that pet owners never administer any medication without the direction of their local veterinarian. If you suspect that your dog may not be feeling well, we recommend that you contact your vet so that the problem can be assessed and an appropriate medication can be given.

More new questions this week:

- My puppy loves to chew on the spiky pods that fall from the sycamore tree. Are they bad for her?

- I recently noticed my dog eating rabbit feces off the ground. What effect could this have on her?

ASPCA in News: County gets ASPCA's help in reducing its euthanasia rates

St.Petersburg News
February 27, 2007

BRANDON - As part of a three-year campaign to reduce euthanasia rates, the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals is sinking $600,000 into four Hillsborough animal organizations over the next three years. Aside from Animal Services, the Animal Coalition of Tampa, Humane Society of Tampa Bay and No More Homeless Pets of Hillsborough are participating.

The initiative, dubbed "Mission: Orange" after the color of the ASPCA logo, will try to overhaul animal services in Hillsborough County; Austin, Texas; Philadelphia; and Gulfport, Miss.

Mission: Orange will try to make these four areas more like San Francisco, said ASPCA president Ed Sayres.

Read the rest of the news article...

Just for Kids! Ask Azula: Do Chipmunks Make Good Pets?

I was thinking of catching a wild chipmunk. Do you have any opinions on this animal as a pet? —Erica, age 13

You may not like what I am going to say, Erica, but I’ve gotta say it. At ASPCA Animaland, we think it’s great to have companion animals as pets (animals who have been domesticated, or bred to live with humans), but we strongly believe that wild animals should not be kept as pets.

Learn More

New Video! ASPCA Charm School: Talented Hounds Abound

On Friday, February 2, the ASPCA Charm School Talent Show for Dogs proved just how adoptable and trainable shelter dogs are. The 13 canine contestants showed off their tricks in front of an enthusiastic audience of television crews, photographers and ASPCA staffers.

Our judges, two-time Tony Award winner Bernadette Peters, radio personality Angie Martinez, The Bachelor’s Prince Lorenzo Borghese and ASPCA Humane Law Enforcement agent Annemarie Lucas, gave their rapt attention to the furry contenders. Dogs were judged on overall presentation, attentiveness to the handler and creativity of the tricks performed.

"The remarkable thing is that these are all dogs who have been rescued from neglectful situations, so they've come so far," says the ASPCA’s Allison Cardona.

Many of these talented contestants are still looking for a home! Please visit our Available Animals page for a full list.

Pet Nutrition Q & A: Switching to a New Food

Is it harmful to continue to feed an adult dog the canned puppy food they are used to eating? My 14-month-old dog is having trouble digesting anything else, and sometimes vomits immediately after eating.
―Bonnie

It really is best to provide your dog with a food that is appropriate for his or her age. In general, we recommend gradually switching to a new food. Start by adding just a small amount of new food to the old food. Then slowly, over a number of days or even weeks, increase the amount of new food while decreasing the amount of old food. Keeping the transition slow can help to prevent gastrointestinal upset in your dog and can also help him or her to accept the change.

We recommend you choose a high-quality pet food for adult dogs. If your dog continues to experience problems with the transition to a new food, please visit your veterinarian to determine if a health issue is contributing to the problem. Some dogs can be sensitive to specific food ingredients, and your veterinarian can help you identify the best dietary options.

Thanks again for contacting us, Bonnie, and good luck in finding the right food for your dog.

More new questions:

- What are your thoughts about holistic diets?

Equine Behavior Q & A: Help for Undersocialized Horse

I have a dressage horse who shows signs of being hit and whipped; she gets scared if you move quickly or if you move your hand toward her head. When other people come near her, she runs or hides behind me. She is becoming more comfortable with me the more I’m with her, but I’m afraid to ride her. I have a professional trainer riding her now, but she tolerates this only for a short period before she gets grouchy and begins stopping and rearing.

Because she and I are forming a connection, is it possible that she might be a different horse with me on her back? And do you think this is a case of past abuse, or is she just shy?
—Amy

Thank you for your question, Amy. I do not think we have enough evidence to conclude that your horse was abused. An undersocialized horse is quite likely to behave as you describe. Horses, being prey animals, will respond in a fearful manner to anything they perceive as a potential predator. In an evolutionary sense, a horse is likely to live longer if he is fearful of new things and animals, as all could be potential predators.

It will be your job to teach her that humans are not predators, and that things that move quickly can feel good. A positive reinforcement-based training program will help her immensely. I suggest first teaching her to touch a target stick for a food reward. I have used targets to teach horses, tortoises, Komodo dragons, and even lions to become more comfortable around people.

Read the rest of the answer...

Hot Off the Presses: This Week's ASPCA News Alert

PET POISON ALERT: FDA RECALLS OF CAT FOOD & PEANUT BUTTER Last week, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration issued two recalls pertaining to products contaminated with Salmonella bacteria—Peter Pan and Great Value peanut butter carrying the code “2111,” and 3 1/2-ounce and one-pound packages of Wild Kitty raw, all natural frozen cat food, chicken with clam recipe. ASPCA experts offer advice for pet parents who have purchased any of these recalled products.

ASPCA SUCCESS STORY OF THE WEEK: A LADY IN WAITING “Everywhere James goes, our dog goes,” says Alison Rettig of the beautiful friendship between her son and the family’s beloved canine.

PLANNED GIVING UPDATE: DO YOU HAVE A WILL?
Choosing to write a will is essential—not only for you, but for your loved ones and the charities and causes you care about.

MEET YOU IN MAY: ANIMAL CARE EXPO IS JUST AROUND THE CORNER
Volunteers and professionals working in the fields of animal sheltering, care and control won’t want to miss this one.

PONDERING PIT BULLS, 3/15
Sick of pit bulls getting a bad rap? Check out the Sixth Annual Tri-County Humane Society/Minnesota Conference, featuring the ASPCA’s Ledy VanKavage, Esq.

HOW TO CUT VET COSTS? GET A FREE PET INSURANCE QUOTE!
Rising veterinary costs don’t have to stop you from getting medical care for your pets when they need it.

Virginia and Illinois Residents, Help Animals Right Now!

Please take action on these Advocacy Alerts today!

Illinois, End Dog Breed Discrimination by Insurers—Support SB 1279
Sponsored by Senator Don Harmon, SB 1279 would prohibit discrimination against insurance applicants based on their breed of dog. Currently, dog owners who have had coverage for years may suddenly be informed by their insurance companies that they will no longer be covered, even though no claim has ever been made. These decisions are often based solely upon the determination that certain breeds or breed mixes are “dangerous.” All dogs are individuals, and responsible guardianship, early training and socialization are factors that should be considered when assessing a dog’s level of aggression. Please ask your state senator and representative to support SB 1279! TAKE ACTION NOW

Virginia, Make Sure Your Pets Are Safe During an Emergency—Support SB 787
SB 787 is legislation that will require that an emergency response plan be developed to address the needs of agricultural and companion animals in Virginia during times of disaster and evacuation. In the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, several states have already passed legislation similar to SB 787. If you want Virginia to be next, let your representative know that you care! TAKE ACTION NOW

Just for Kids! New on ASPCA Animaland: Nose for News

KIDS WHO ROCK The Tech Squad at MS 391 gave an awesome Christmas present to NYC's homeless pets.

DOGS WHO ROCK Meet some canines who can ride skateboards and play the piano (not at the same time, though!).

PUPPY LOVE You asked if we had any awesome pics of pooches? You got 'em!

Press Release: Advice from the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center On Recent FDA Recalls of Cat Food and Peanut Butter

NEW YORK, February 16, 2007— This week, the U. S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued two recalls pertaining to products contaminated with the bacteria Salmonella. The first involves a recall on Peter Pan and Great Value brands of peanut butter with the manufacturer code “2111” on the jar lid. The second pertains to Wild Kitty Raw All Natural, Frozen Cat Food- Chicken with Clam Recipe. Contaminated packages include both the 3.5 ounce and 1 lb. sizes. Thus far, there have been no reports of illness pertaining to either product in pets.

As many pets—especially dogs—enjoy an occasional peanut butter treat, the ASPCA cautions pet parents against feeding recalled peanut butter to pets. Affected jars should be thrown out, and extra caution should be taken to ensure that pets do not access trash receptacles containing the discarded peanut butter. Similar steps should be followed for the contaminated cat food.
Read the rest of this press release...

Press Release: Stray Voltage Causes Concern for New Yorkers and their Pets Following Possible Electrocution of Dog

NEW YORK, February 15, 2007—The possible electrocution of a small dog in New York City during recent storms has raised concerns over the phenomena of stray voltage, just one more hazard of wet, winter weather.

The cause of death of a one-year-old Boston terrier that walked over an icy manhole cover has not been determined, and the city’s Consolidated Edison (Con Ed) officials haven’t confirmed if the cover or other nearby metal objects had been electrified. However, the dog’s death could be the latest in a series of episodes where pets and their handlers have been harmed by stray voltage.
Read the rest of the press release...

Hot Off the Presses: This Week's ASPCA News Alert

GET READY TO CELEBRATE ASPCA DAY AND GO ORANGE FOR ANIMALS!
As we approach our 141st birthday, we’re more dedicated than ever to preventing cruelty to animals and finding homes for animals all across the country. But we couldn’t do it without you—so please join us on Tuesday, April 10, in celebration of ASPCA Day. To help get you in the spirit, we’re giving away 500 free ASPCA Day Kits, complete with cool gear for you and lots of goodies to share with friends and fellow animal lovers in your community.

ASPCA SUCCESS STORY OF THE WEEK: GENTLE GIANT
Rachel Carsenstein’s canine buddy is a true warrior—with a heart of gold.


WHAT IF THE ASPCA EARNED A PENNY EVERY TIME YOU SEARCHED THE INTERNET?
Visit GoodSearch.com for the scoop on this easy way to help animals.

ASPCA APPLAUDS STRONG SENTENCING IN ANIMAL TORTURE CASE
Two brothers were charged with nine counts of felony for torturing a three-month-old puppy.

2006 SHELTER OF THE YEAR ANNOUNCED
Cutting-edge community programs and tireless dedication to animals in need earned the Houston SPCA this high honor.

CATS OR DOGS? YOU TELL US!
Weigh in on this most pressing question and help raise money to support ASPCA programs.

Pet Q & A: What to Feed a Kitten

I recently adopted a two-month-old kitten who was left in an empty apartment next door to mine. I was told by a friend to give her Kozy Kitten cat food. I want to know if water and dry food are all she needs to eat in order for her to get the right nutrition.
―Carolann

Thank you for contacting the ASPCA Pet Nutrition Service, Carolann, and congratulations on your new kitten!

The ASPCA generally recommends quality products like Iams and Science Diet. We’re not familiar with the brand you mentioned, but in general, a quality dry food made just for kittens would be a good choice. Some people like to give their kittens wet food, too, but it isn't necessary for good nutrition. Foods for adult cats may not contain all of the nutrients a kitten needs, so look for a kitten food for her and make sure she has fresh water at all times.

You should also have your kitten checked out by a veterinarian. The vet will likely offer vaccinations and a de-worming medicine to make sure she gets off to a good start. Your veterinarian is also a good source for nutrition information and can suggest high quality brands of food.

We wish you the best of luck with your new kitten, Carolann.


- Which supplement is best for me to give to my mixed-breed dog? She's five years old, energetic and sheds a lot of hair. Please help!!!

Pet Poison Q & A: Could Mosquito Repellent Bug My Dog?

Can I use mosquito repellent on my dog?
―Michelle S.

Michelle, pet owners should never use any product on their animal that is not specifically created for them. Certain mosquito repellents that are made for human beings contain DEET (N, N-diethyl-meta-toluamide). The use of DEET on pets is not recommended, as dogs and cats are very sensitive to it and may develop neurological problems if the product is used on them.

If you want to keep mosquitoes away from your dog, we suggest asking your veterinarian for an appropriate product to use.

More new questions this week:

- My Lab loves oranges. Are small amounts harmful to her?

- Can my adult dog and puppy eat raw potatoes?

Equine Behavior Q & A: Older Horse, New Tricks

I have a 35-year-old horse. I am trying to get him into better condition, but don't know how hard I can push him. He is willing to canter, and sometimes gallop, on his own, so he still has some spunk. What can I do in order to get him fit without overworking him?
—Sarah

Thank you for your thoughtful question, Sarah. Your first step should be to have a thorough vet exam to get the go-ahead to condition your horse. At this point in his life, I am assuming you would like him to be fit for health reasons as opposed to for competition. If that is the case, I suggest making the choice his by using positive reinforcement training and enrichment. How about teaching him to touch targets for a food reward? Teaching him to place his nose on a stable target (such as a traffic cone) can be a fun way for him to keep his body moving. If you use two traffic cones, you can teach him to touch one, then trot to the second and touch it to earn his treat.

Read the rest of the answer...

ASPCA in the News: ASPCA Gives Money To Austin Animal Shelters

CBS 42
February 8, 2007

(CBS 42) AUSTIN Austin area animal shelters and organizations received nearly $300,000 Thursday morning. The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) has pledged hundreds of thousands of dollars for them to start new programs and help continue and upgrade current ones.

Austin is one of four cities receiving money from the ASPCA, along with Philadelphia, Tampa, Fla., and Gulfport Biloxi, Miss.

The ASPCA has worked to prevent cruelty to animals for nearly 150 years, and 2007 is certainly no different.

Read the rest of the news article...

Pet Q & A: Nutritional Help for Pooches Who Pass Gas

I have a problem with my large dogs. They have bad flatulence after meals. I changed their food to a kibble of lamb and rice to lessen their gluten intake, but nothing helps. They get NO table scraps! What can I do?
―MaryLou

Excessive flatulence may be harmless, MaryLou, but it can also be an indication of disease. First, you will want to mention the problem to your veterinarian, who can examine your dogs for intestinal parasites and other potential causes for flatulence. If everything checks out normally, then I suggest you seek out a dog food product that is lower in fiber and/or has a source of fiber that is less likely to cause gas. This may help to reduce the flatulence.

There’s also the possibility that if your dogs are fast eaters, they are swallowing a significant amount of air while eating. If that’s the case, there are several things you can do to help them slow down. You can give them a little bit of food at a time, or feed them smaller meals throughout the day. You can even put bowls of food down in different areas of your house, so that they have to go looking for more food instead of gulping it all down at once.

If nothing else seems to work, ask your veterinarian if an over-the-counter medication can help reduce the flatulence. Good luck!

More new questions:

- Are there any treats out there that can help my kitten's terrible breath?

Press Release: Howell Book House, Borders and the ASPCA Invite Pet Parents to Share the Love!

‘Hopeful Tails’ Contest Launches this Week on BordersPetProject.com

New York, February 7, 2007–If you have ever brought a homeless, displaced, or abused animal into your home and he or she is now a loving member of your family, we want you to share your story! America’s premier publisher of pet books, Howell Book House; the ASPCA® (The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals®); and Borders, Inc., the global retailer of books, music and movies, are teaming up to bring you Hopeful Tails—a compilation of heartwarming rescue and adoption stories from around the country. Pet parents are invited to submit stories and photos of how their furry companions came into their lives at www.BordersPetProject.com, and the winning entries will be published in Hopeful Tails, exclusively available this Fall at all Borders® and Waldenbooks® stores.

“Nowhere is the human-animal bond as clearly demonstrated as in stories of shelter pets finding homes,” said Ed Sayres, president & CEO of the ASPCA. “Ask pet parents to tell you their rescue stories, and you’ll inevitably find how an oftentimes chance visit to the local shelter has irrevocably changed and enriched their lives. I can’t wait to read the great stories I know we’re going to get, and am extremely grateful to Howell Book House and Borders for partnering with the ASPCA on this project.”

Read the rest of the press release...

Pet Poison Q & A: The Scoop on Pepto Bismol

Can I give Pepto Bismol to my dog? I’ve read on some websites that it’s safe, but others say no.
―Chris G.

Chris, Pepto Bismol and other products that relieve gastric irritation contain salicylates, which make them similar to aspirin. While products like these have, in certain circumstances, been prescribed by veterinarians in appropriate doses, large enough doses of bismuth subsalicylate (the ingredient found in Pepto Bismol) could cause symptoms similar to aspirin poisoning. These include gastric irritation or ulcers, bleeding problems, seizures and liver damage.

It is important never to give your dog any medication or supplement that is not specifically prescribed for him by your veterinarian. Many human medications can be harmful or even deadly to pets, depending on the dose. If you suspect that your dog may not be feeling well, call your vet to arrange for a check-up and appropriate treatment.

More questions this week:

- Is Japanese privet bush dangerous to pets?

- Could the vapors from an air freshener product cause problems for dogs?

ASPCA in the News: ASPCA Canine Talent Show (Photo Coverage)

BroadwayWorld.com
Monday, February 5, 2007

Skateboarding, carriage-pushing and piano playing pooches put their best paws forward during a Charm School & Talent Show at the ASPCA (American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals) on Friday, February 2 at 12 noon.

The talent show helped kick off "I Love NYC Pets" month, which features adoption events by various New York City animal welfare and rescue groups throughout February. Thirteen dexterous dogs, all available for adoption at the ASPCA, and their handlers trumped their many talents for a panel of celebrity judges that includes legendary Broadway actress and noted animal supporter Bernadette Peters (two-time Tony Award-winner for Song and Dance and Annie Get Your Gun, also Gypsy, Into the Woods, etc.), reality TV’s"Bachelor" Prince Lorenzo Borghese, hit HOT 97 FM DJ Angie Martinez, and the ASPCA’s Supervisory Special Investigator and star of the hit show "Animal Precinct," Annemarie Lucas.

Read the rest of the news article...

Horse Behavior Q & A: Equine Years Vs. People Years

My horse is 10 years old. How old is that in people years?
—Gracie

What a fun question! Most experts would say that one human year is equivalent to 2-3 horse years, as the life span of a horse is generally between 30-40 years. So if your horse is 10 years old, she is 20 to 30 in “human years.”

More questions on horse behavior:

- How long does a horse pregnancy last?

- Why do horses get put to sleep if they break a leg?

ASPCA in the News: ASPCA Holds Talent Competition For Adoptable Pooches

NY1

February 02, 2007 -- The first-ever American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Charm School and Talent Show competition took place Friday in Manhattan.

Thirteen dogs took part in the event, which helped kick-off "I Love NYC Pets" month.

Read the rest of the news article...

NYC Pet of the Week: Meet Jazzy Joyce!

Looking to make a faithful friend? Meet Jazzy Joyce—she’s all that. Sweet and calm, this four-year-old tortie-colored Norwegian forest cat will climb up onto your lap for some quality time. Like other members of her breed, this feline likes receiving quiet, calm attention from people.

“Jazzy Joyce doesn’t have that crazy kitten behavior, yet is still young enough to be active and play,” says ASPCA Cares’ Allison Cardona. “That’s the nice thing about adult cats—they are loyal but less boisterous companions.”

In addition to providing love, it will be important for Jazzy Joyce’s new owner to ensure that she receives regular medical attention, since she has a hyperactive thyroid gland and needs periodic blood tests. This long-haired lady will also need daily brushing (our medical staff gave her a shave, as you can see in the photo, to remove some mats), and we recommend that she be the only pet in a home with kids ages 12 and up.

Please stop by the ASPCA’s 92nd Street headquarters and experience this sweet girl for yourself. You can also learn more about Jazzy Joyce by calling the Animal Placement department at (212) 876-7700, ext. 4120. To see some of the other animals at our shelter who are waiting for homes, please visit ASPCA.org.

Hot Off the Presses: This Week's ASPCA News Alert

THE ASPCA GUIDE TO A PET-FRIENDLY VALENTINE’S DAY
As February 14 approaches, you may be dreaming about giving—or getting—the perfect gift. But did you know that traditional tokens of affection—roses, chocolate and other candies—can be harmful for the four-legged loves of your life? ASPCA experts offer some tips to ensure a loving and safe day for all species this Valentine’s Day.

ASPCA SUCCESS STORY OF THE WEEK: ROCKET SCIENCE
Meet a loveable shepherd mix with one strange talent.

ATTENTION, SHOPPERS! LOVE GROWS AT THE ASPCA, 24/7
Valentine’s Day gift ideas—from wine and tees to books, jewelry and blooms—that’ll make your sweetie swoon.

DO YOU WANT TO REDUCE YOUR INCOME TAXES FOR 2007?
We’d like to remind you about the Pension Protection Act of 2006.

VICTORY FOR PETS—AND THEIR PEOPLE—IN ILLINOIS!
Congrats to Illinois, which recently passed legislation that will help pets and their people stay safe and together during emergencies.

WHAT’S GOING ON?
Check our calendar for a list of animal-related events scheduled to take place this month.

Thanks to everyone who made a Squidoo Lens about their pets last week! There's still time to enter the ASPCA Squidoo Lens Contest—just create your lens about your pet by the end of today, February 2. Visit Squidoo to get started now!

Pet Poison Q & A: Ice―No Dice?

I have a beagle mix, and I was wondering if ice is dangerous to dogs. My mom read many years ago that ice is dangerous because it changes a dog’s temperature too quickly.
―Kim F.

The answer to your question, Kim, really depends on the circumstances involved. For example, since mammals are warm-blooded, nibbling on an ice cube or two is not likely to have any impact on an animal's body temperature. This means that their bodies have ways to keep their temperature levels normal in most situations. But, if a pet is placed in an icy tub of water, is left outside in the cold for too long or is otherwise exposed to too much ice for an extended period of time, the body's temperature can become unstable and a dangerous drop in temperature, known as hypothermia, can occur.

The bottom line? Offering your beagle mix a few bits of ice here and there is not an issue. Just don't feed her huge amounts of ice or expose her to environmental situations that could cause her temperature to drop.

More questions this week:

- I see that regular yucca is on the poisonous plants list, but what about the plant yucca cane?

- Can snake antivenom be purchased for administration by pet owners?