Scoop - March & April 2011

March | April 2011

pasadena humane society & spca

Too Many Cats On the evening of December 15, 2010, Pasadena Humane Society Animal Control Officers and staff rescued 250 cats from a 600 square foot bungalow in Pasadena.

After good Samaritans expressed concern for the well-being of these animals, our officers conducted an investigation, prepared the necessary legal documents, contacted the police and fire department, code enforcement and

then served the warrant. Once inside they saw the terrible living conditions where the cats were kept.

Although no one had a firm count of the animals kept in the building, initial estimates were 140 cats. But as the night went on and more cats were brought out of the deplorable living conditions, staff realized that the preliminary estimate was very low.

Transport back to the shelter took several hours. The Mobile Unit, several animal control trucks, the humane education van and two pickup trucks made multiple trips from the site to the safety of the shelter where additional staff and our veterinarian were ready to assess the health of each cat and place them all in clean housing with fresh food and water. Our staff worked into the early hours of the next day to (continued on back cover)

compassion and care for all animals

leader of the pack It’s no secret that the Pasadena Humane Society wants to end euthanasia of adoptable animals. Because the nature of pet overpopulation has changed, adoption and spay/neuter of stray and owned animals is simply not enough.

Many of the animals that come into PHS are over 4 months old and under a year—teenagers, just leaving the cute baby phase. The majority of these pets come in alone, not in a litter. They are not simply the victims of an unplanned birth, but also of a broken bond between human and animal. In order to stem the flow of animals into the shelter, PHS needs to provide programs that reduce the potential population (spay/neuter clinic) and programs that strengthen and keep the human-animal bond intact.

An Animal Care Campus would target the goal of zero euthanasia of adoptable animals and give us the tools to enact the programs that will keep animals in their homes and out of the shelter.

Program changes will happen in many departments like Humane Education, Spay/ Neuter and Community Outreach, but here are a few of the exciting changes planned for the Behavior Department.

Since many pets are given up because of a problem that the owner is unable or unwilling to resolve, our Behavior Department will continue to expand class options that fit the needs of the public and their pets. Obedience classes give the tools to both owner and their pet for a long, respectful relationship, while fun and games classes offer the option to play productively with your pet, cementing the bond between you.

More classes that target specific behaviors, like Reactive Rovers, will be developed to build the relationship and manage issues that might otherwise become too problematic.

A dog day care center will provide a safe and secure environment where owners can leave their dogs. Well-trained, trustworthy staff will provide an environment where dogs can comfortably and appropriately socialize. Dogs will go home content, tired and socialized—and less likely to get into mischief.

I want each of you to know about our future plans and the reasons for them. Every new program we are planning will help end euthanasia of adoptable animals. The plans are big but the reward is tremendous and your support is essential to our success. Thank you for your love for the animals.

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Steve

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Community heroes

Helping Hands Last December, the Pasadena Humane Society rescued over 250 cats within 24 hours. The abrupt influx of animals put additional strain on humane society staff and it was apparent more help was needed. Thankfully, Dr. Gerry Schultz, DVM, agreed to lend a hand.

adopted over 13 years ago, and Max, who was found by a client.

Dr. Schultz gives the rescued cats weekly health checks, specialized treatments, and further care as needed.

Because the humane society is legally responsible for maintaining thorough documentation of each cat, Dr. Schultz also manages the cats’ medical records.

From their initial condition to their progress at the shelter, each cat is monitored and given the appropriate care.

“Dr. Schultz has extensive knowledge and communicates effectively with our staff. She keeps everyone informed and her work is exemplary,” said Lieutenant Arteaga, Field Services Supervisor.

A Minnesota native and graduate of Iowa State University, Dr. Schultz joined the staff at La Cañada Pet Clinic in La Cañada Flintridge, California five years ago.

At home, Dr. Shultz has two cats of her own. Bowie McMeowie, a PHS alumni

“Dr. Schultz has a soft spot for cats and has rescued several in the years I have known her,” said Pasadena Humane Society Veterinarian Dr. Susan Horowitz, DVM. “She is very dedicated to the care of animals and she does it all with a smile. We are very glad to have her help.”

During difficult times, the Pasadena Humane Society often calls upon individuals and other organizations to aid in the care of animals. Dr. Schultz’s compassion, hard work and warm smile is greatly appreciated by her many two and four-legged friends at PHS.

The Pasadena Humane Society & SPCA is NOT part of the ASPCA. When you donate to PHS you are helping animals here in Southern California.

The ASPCA does not distribute donations locally. Each spca in the country is legally separate from all of the others. Donate to the Pasadena Humane Society & SPCA and help the animals in your community http://www.pasadenahumane.org/donate pa g e 3

wild things

Baby Animals If You Find a Baby Wild Animal Springtime is baby season for the wild animals in our foothills. Well-intentioned residents may find solitary babies and think the animal is orphaned. However, most of these babies are being taught to survive on their own and their parents are nearby. It is best to leave the babies alone since removing them greatly reduces their chance of survival.

Baby Birds Nestlings (featherless birds) that have fallen out of a tree can be replaced in their nest very safely. The mother bird will accept them. If you cannot find the nest, create one by using a small box or margarine tub. Put holes in the bottom for drainage. Fledgling birds (feathered but limited flight) are often found hopping around under trees. Although this appears dangerous, it is a normal stage of development and they should be left alone. Place them under a nearby bush or shrub. The mother bird will continue to take care of them until they are able to fly, usually in just a few days.

Mammals Mammals rarely abandon their young. If you see a baby mammal, leave it alone.

Observe it from a distance for 2-3 hours. If the mother does not return, call PHS for advice. (Remember that rabbits and deer may be away from their young from dawn to dusk.)

When do Baby Animals Need to be Rescued?

Young that are injured or bleeding, or have heavy discharge from their eyes or nose need to be rescued. Any animal needs to be rescued that is cold to the touch, making continuous distress calls, or has no mother.

To Rescue a Wild Animal Put the baby in a small box and keep the box in a warm, dark and quiet place. Do not give the animal anything to eat. Immediately contact your local wildlife rehabilitation center or your local humane society.

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For information on finding a rehabilitation facility for an orphaned animal, contact us at 626.792.7151 ext.110 or email our wildlife officer at wildlife@phsspca.org.

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behavior & training Q A Tips and Myths about Pets Q: W hy does my dog always jump up on visitors that enter my home?

A: It would seem as though you have a very affectionate dog in your house.

Jumping is considered an innate behavior, meaning something dogs know how to do without being taught. It is always recommended that you try to break this habit as a puppy; however it is not impossible to break for an adult dog. Often times something as easy as walking into your dog when they jump, or simply ignoring them when you come home can curb this behavior. The easiest solution however is to contact your local trainer or Shelter for more information.

Q: I want to start looking for a new dog to adopt at my local animal shelter, how do I know which dog is best for me and my household?

A: First, how much time do you have to commit to your new furry friend? Keep in mind that all dogs require daily exercise. However; some breeds require more than others. Also, remember that a puppy will require extra time for house training and basic obedience training that an adult dog may not need.

Second, what is your lifestyle? Are you an active person with children who likes to spend their weekend hiking, jogging, or gardening? If so, a higher energy breed, like an Aussie Shepherd, might be a good fit. On the other hand, if you prefer to spend your down time watching movies, reading on the sofa, or sunbathing, consider a lower energy dog like a Shih Tzu or an adult or senior dog that will enjoy these quiet moments. Above all else, remember when looking through your local shelter to keep an open mind; the dog with the energy and personality that best suits your household may not be the cute fluffy terrier with the wagging tail. Best of luck!

Q: M y adult dog has started to have accidents on the living room carpet at night. I show him the mess and tell him, “No” in a stern voice, but it keeps happening. Do you have any suggestions?

A: Although housetraining accidents are often a source of frustration, pet parents should resist the urge to rub their pup’s nose in it. Punishment after the fact is rarely, if ever, effective whether you are dealing with housebreaking or attempting to correct other problem behaviors. Accidents shouldn’t be overlooked, though. Even after one accident, communicate clearly to your dog your expectations regarding housetraining and elimination habits. To set them up for success, consider going back to crate training or limiting the dog’s access to roam the home freely and unsupervised.

For more tips and information, please contact the Pasadena Humane Society & SCPA’s Behavior & Training Department at (626) 792-7151 ext. 155. pa g e 5

Happy Tails Springtime is Kittentime!

Spring is in the air, and here at the Pasadena Humane Society that means one thing: baby animals. From puppies to fledgling birds, these tiny creatures often require special care before they are ready to be adopted or returned to the wild.

Year after year, we see an increase in the baby animals that come to our doors during the spring and summer months.

Without fail, kittens are the most common baby animals that arrive at PHS in need of care. Though at times our shelter may seem inundated with frisky kittens, their adorable faces and playful behavior often makes them quite popular for adoption.

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Around this time last year, Amber Denbleyker was looking for a feline compan-

and purred quite loudly as soon as I held him.”

The kitten was neutered, microchipped and vaccinated (all included in his adoption fees) and Amber got to bring him home a few days later. She named him Rudolph Valentino, Rudy for short, after the Italian actor popular in the 1920’s.

Rudy and Amber absolutely adore each other. When Amber comes home from work in the evening, Rudy loves to jump into her lap and cuddle. He follows her around the house, even walks around the edge of the bathtub when she takes a bath.

ion to share her home with. One evening, her boyfriend surprised her with some pictures of cats he saw available for adoption on the PHS website.

And being a young cat, Rudy loves to play. When Amber is busy, she notices that he has no problem entertaining himself, “The cutest thing Rudy does is get angry at himself in the mirror. He slowly tiptoes around the doorway and stares at the mirror out of the corner of his eye raises his back and fluffs his tail and then lunges at himself only to hit the mirror and do it all over again. I love him always, and am endlessly indebted to the Pasadena Humane Society.”

Amber picked out a lovely grey kitten and came to our shelter the next day to meet him, “He was in the cage with three of his siblings and we wanted them all but my landlord would only let me have one. We picked him because he was so fun and uninhibited

Every year, the Pasadena Humane Society finds homes for thousands of baby animals like Rudy. But just as important are some 5,000 pets that are spayed and neutered at our facility, preventing the births of countless unwanted animals.

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event round-up A Hole-In-One for the Animals Get ready to try your luck while helping the animals! On Monday, April 18th, 2011 the Pasadena Humane Society & SPCA will hold its 4th annual helicopter ball drop at San Gabriel Country Club following the 12th annual Doglegs, Birdies and Eagles Golf Benefit.

After the golf benefit, individually numbered golf balls will be dropped from a helicopter over the 18th hole. If your ball lands in the hole, you could win up to $10,000! If more than one ball lands in the hole the winners will split the prize.

Golf balls are priced two for $25 or ten for $100. All proceeds help to provide food, shelter and medical care for the animals at the Pasadena Humane Society.

Winners of the helicopter ball drop will be announced at the golf benefit dinner. You do not need to be present to win, but we’d love to have you join us! Tickets to the dinner are $75 per person and include amazing gourmet

fare prepared by renowned chef Edward Ungrue, great wine, silent and live auctions, and lots of fun with friends of the Pasadena Humane Society.

To purchase dinner tickets and golf balls, please call Nicole Ring at 626792-7151 ext. 167. You can also purchase golf balls online at www.pasadenahumane.org/balldrop or in person at the Pasadena Humane Society, 361 S. Raymond Ave., Pasadena, CA 91105.

Last year three golf balls landed in the hole! Will yours be the one this year?

Tickets are now available for two fun-filled events to support PHS. On Saturday, June 11, 2011 the Pasadena Animal League presents The Fast and the Furriest gala at Annandale Country Club. All proceeds will be donated to the Pasadena Humane Society’s spay/neuter programs. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit www.fastandfurriest.org or call (626) 441.7737.

The San Marino Motor Classic will be held at Lacy Park in San Marino on Sunday, June 12, 2011, featuring a display of 200 stunning vehicles. Proceeds from the event will support the Pasadena Humane Society and the Rotary Club of San Marino. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit www.sanmarinomotorclassic.com.

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Non-profit Organization U.S. Postage

PAID Pasadena, CA Permit No. 1142

361 South Raymond Avenue Pasadena, CA 91105

Too Many Cats

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insure that each cat was clean and comfortable.

Fortunately, most of the cats arrived at PHS in relatively good condition.

But because of the additional responsibilities that their daily care put on employees, PHS volunteers asked to help. Working under the direction of selected well trained staff, this wonderful cadre of animal lovers cleaned cat cages and guaranteed that the cats get fresh food, water and some valuable socialization. Our volunteers make it easier to care for the cats that need more attention and make it possible for staff to maintain the normal shelter responsibilities.

Facility Hours Tues, Wed, Thurs, Fri 9 am—6 pm Sat 9 am—5 pm Sun 11 am—5 pm

Adoption Hours Tues, Wed, Thurs, Fri 9 am—5 pm Sat 9 am—4 pm Sun 11 am—4 pm

Because this is a complicated legal matter, we cannot know how long the cats will remain in our custody and out of public view, so we are prepared to keep them social and healthy until they can be adopted or moved to another location.

The additional cost to PHS for the care of the cats is over $1000 each day. Please help if you can. Your donation will be used to provide the food, shelter, litter, medicine and care that the cats need during their stay. You can donate online at pasadenahumane.org or use the enclosed envelope. We cannot do all that we do without you!

www.pasadenahumane.org 24 hour Emergency Service please call 626.792.7151 Glendale residents please call toll-free 818.240.9100 The Pasadena Humane Society & SPCA is a The Pasadena Humane & SPCAwelfare is a private, non-profit, openSociety door, animal private, non-profit, open door, animal welfare agency serving the communities of Arcadia, agency serving the communities of Arcadia, GlenGlendale, La Cañada Flintridge, Pasadena, dale, La Cañada Flintridge, Pasadena, San Marino, San Marino, Sierra Madre and South Pasadena Sierra Madre and South Pasadena.