Scoop - July & August 2011

july | august 2011

pasadena humane society & spca

Summertime Fun Summertime living with our pets takes some extra planning. Many pet-friendly activities are available to the resourceful pet owner and will ensure a safe, fun-filled summer.

Dogs If you and your favorite canine enjoy hiking, bring ample drinking water for both of you. Your dog always wears

Always carry a thermos of fresh water when traveling with your pet; the water will help cool down an overheated animal very quickly.

Swimming is wonderful exercise and a great way to beat the heat. If your dog enjoys swimming, be sure your pet is trained get out of the pool.

Wading pools are a great option to a swimming pool or you can visit a dog beach. Always supervise your pet during water play!

a fur coat and may get overheated.

A dog’s foot pads are very sensitive and can easily burn on hot sand or asphalt, so early morning and evening hours may be a good choice.

Cats In summer, pet owners open windows to enjoy the breezes. Kitties love to sleep in the sun and make sleeping on the window sill look easy! Make certain that screens are installed on all windows that you open so that your cat remains securely inside. If you have an enclosed area so that your (continued on back)

compassion and care for all animals

leader of the pack PHS must continue responding to the changes in our communities that affect animals. The past two issues of Scoop have included a discussion of our programmatic plans to strengthen the human-animal bond and decrease the number of animals coming into the shelter through behavior and educational outreach. We are making these changes in order to reach our ultimate goal of ending euthanasia of adoptable animals.

But PHS also must change the current facility to include a care campus that includes a larger clinic to focus on sterilization. Spay/neuter surgery remains the most immediately effective tool that will stop euthanasia of animals that we can place in homes and with rescues. To be most effective, the clinic, offering high volume, low cost, spay neuter surgeries, must have a post-surgical recovery area.

This will allow veterinarians to perform more surgeries and decrease waiting times for appointments.

The clinic will provide very basic wellness care for companion animals that will include vaccination and microchip clinics. Pets in our community will be protected from disease and more pets will have current identification so they can be returned to their owner. This will free resources to be used in other-life saving programs.

These changes are in our future as we continue to give animals a second chance while enriching the lives of people who care about them.

The State Humane Association has filed a complaint with the California Attorney General’s office charging the ASPCA with deceptive fund-raising practices. The heart-wrenching commercials for the ASPCA, starring Sarah McLachlan, have been so effective that people give to the ASPCA thinking that they are giving to their local humane societies and animal shelters.

The ASPCA does not distribute money to PHS. Donate to the Pasadena Humane Society to support the animals in this community

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Steve

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Community heroes Hawk is Home Free Thanks to Pasadena Senior Center Red-tailed hawks are relatively common in Southern California and are often seen soaring over open fields or perched on telephone poles. A less likely occurrence took place last February when Michael Hayes, Maintenance Chief of the Pasadena Senior Center spotted soon to be named, Harry.

Harry, an adult male, red-tailed hawk did not appear injured at first, but he remained in a nearby tree for several days giving Hayes cause for concern.

Harry eventually came down from the tree and perched on a nearby trash can.

When several ravens began to harass the hawk, Hayes knew it was time to act. He constructed a makeshift transfer cage and managed to catch Harry and place him safely inside.

A Pasadena Humane Society officer was notified and took the bird to South Bay Wildlife Center for assessment and rehabilitation.

During Harry’s rehab, Senior Center members and employees checked on his progress and art students at the center even painted his picture. After months of care, Harry was healthy enough to be released.

Because of the Senior Center’s proximity to busy streets, buildings, and other

potential dangers, master falconer Steve McNall, Pasadena Humane Society President, chose to release the hawk in a large clearing near the Rose Bowl. Prior to the release, McNall brought Harry back to the Senior Center for a brief reunion.

“We are so happy we were able to play a part in saving him, said Akila Gibbs, Executive Director, Pasadena Senior Center. “If you have to be a wounded bird, there is no better place to land than

the Pasadena Senior Center. We care about all living things and are always happy to help.”

PHS relies heavily on the public to recognize and report animals that are injured or in danger. The members and staff of the Pasadena Senior Center went above and beyond to give Harry a second chance at life.

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 pag e 3

wild things

SoCal Snakes Snakes are a common sight in the foothills of Southern California. California is home to 33 species of snakes, and only rattlesnakes are venomous. Snakes fill an important ecological role by controlling many rodent pests.

The Gopher Snake, the King Snake and the Southern Pacific Rattlesnake are some of the more common snakes in this area.

The King Snake is a constrictor, distinguishable by bold rings of color around its body. Immune to rattlesnake venom, it gets its name because it regularly consumes other snakes, including rattlesnakes The Gopher snake is the most common snake seen in our area. This slender snake is also the longest, and can grow to 6 feet in length.. Relatively docile with coloring like a rattlesnake, the gopher snake is often mistaken for one and needlessly killed.

Unlike a rattlesnake, the head of a Gopher Snake is relatively small and blends easily into its body. A rattlesnake has a broad head (to accommodate the venom glands) with a comparatively slender neck that widens to a much thicker body. Gopher Snakes have finely tapering tails that they can vibrate in dried plant matter to simulate the sound made by rattlesnakes.

Rattlesnake tails are blunt and may not have many “rattles� on their tail because of damage or youthfulness. The number of rattles is not a reliable indicator of age.

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If you live in an area where your pet may come into contact with a rattlesnake, make certain that your vet carries anti-venom. Many curious dogs have been bitten by a rattlesnake, so keep your veterinarian’s number nearby. For more information on being safe around rattlesnakes, call our wildlife officer at ext. 110 or download the article, If You Meet a Rattlesnake, from our website. www.pasadenahumane.org/wildlife

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behavior & training Q A Tips and Myths about Pets Q: M y dog runs away from me with his toys. How can I get him to bring the toys to me?

A: Chasing a dog will teach him that it’s fun to run away from you. Instead, when your dog approaches you, give him lots of praise for bringing the toy close to you (even if he doesn’t drop it). To get him to drop the toy, continue to praise him for bringing the toy to you then offer him a treat. When he drops the toy, give him the treat and toss the toy again.

(If your dog doesn’t like treats, try offering him another toy.) It is very important to stop chasing your dog and make it more exciting for him to come to you instead of running away from you.

Q: I ’m having a hard time potty training my new puppy. What am I doing wrong?

A: Make sure that you are using a bio-active enzyme based cleaning product which removes the pheromones that we can’t smell but our dogs can. Then, make certain that your puppy is crate trained. You want to make sure that the crate has enough room for the dog to stand up and turn around in. If the crate is any bigger, you run the risk of your dog having an accident inside the crate. A dog does not want to soil where he sleeps; with only enough room to sleep, your dog will learn to hold his bladder. Lastly, patience, patience, patience! Make sure you take your puppy out every time they drink water, eat, wake up from a nap, or have a play session.

Q: W hat are the benefits of crate training my new dog?

A: Crate training can be a great way to satisfy your dogs’ need for a denlike enclosure. It can help reduce anxiety, prevent destructive behavior like destructive chewing, barking, and can be an effective house training tool. The most important thing to remember is to desensitize your dog to the crate before you leave her in it for an extended period of time.

To make the crate a positive, happy place, begin feeding your dog her meals, treats, and chewies in it. Start with short 5-10 minutes of crate time while you are home, and slowly increase the duration and then begin leaving the house. You will find that soon enough your pooch will love her new crate!

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

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Happy Tails

Bella: Senior for Senior Bella, a 14-year-old tortie was relinquished to our shelter when her owners could no longer care for her. The beautiful, elderly cat had trouble moving her hind legs and was nervous around small children. Because of these reasons, and her age, we knew it would take a special person to open their home to Bella.

Fortunately, Suzanne Horn of Glendale came to our shelter not long after Bella was brought in. She saw Bella, crouched in the back of her cage, but passed on to look at other cats.

Then, something wonderful happened.

Suzanne recalls, “The next day, I pulled up the website for the Pasadena Humane Society and looked through the adoptable cats. I was feeling in the mood to do something good for some-

slim. I knew in my heart she didn’t stand a chance unless I came for her.”

Suzanne was eligible for the Seniors for Seniors program—where seniors age 60 and over can adopt an animal five years or older for only $20 (which covers the cost of a microchip). Last year, more than 100 pets were adopted from the Pasadena Humane Society through the Seniors for Seniors program!

“When I spent time with her at the shelter, there was absolutely no bond at all between us. However, I knew I could give her a safe place, a secure retirement and lots of love. I took the chance that if I did my part in reaching out to her, she would eventually reciprocate.

I took her home.”

Bella spent the first week in her new home hiding, but then started to come around. Suzanne created a comfortable space for Bella and was quick to reward her with treats when she ventured out from her hiding places. Slowly, Bella has been building her confidence and learning to trust Suzanne.

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one who needed me. I came across Bella’s information. I remembered the sullen quiet cat I had seen and passed by. I read more. She was 14 years old.

That got my attention. Her chances of getting adopted at that age were very

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Suzanne is a hero in our eyes, giving a chance to an animal that she knew needed her help. And everyday, she feels rewarded for her kind act, “I have a little furry angel in my home, and it gives me joy every morning I wake up just to see her sweet face.”

event round-up A “Hole-In-One” for the Animals The Pasadena Humane Society & SPCA hosted its 12th annual “Doglegs, Birdies and Eagles” golf benefit on April 18, 2011. Golfers enjoyed 18 holes of golf at San Gabriel Country Club. After the tournament, guests headed over to the clubhouse for a silent and live auction, awards dinner and an exciting helicopter ball drop raffle.

The event was a huge success, raising more than $215,000 to help the animals.

To the left: Board member Weta Mathies, Dr. Alan Mathies, and Sandra Goodspeed To the right: Board members Barbara Bunting, Carol Kirby, Lisa Kenyon

To the left: Roslyn DeForest and Tetsu Tanimoto To the right: Georgia & Michael Coye with Bob Fidler

It’s Wiggle Waggle Walk Time!

Get ready for the 13th annual Wiggle Waggle Walk on Sunday, September 25th at Brookside Park. Register as a team or individual for this community dog walk and fundraiser. Earn great prizes as you raise money to help homeless, injured and abused animals in need. Visit www.wigglewagglewalk.org to register, create your custom webpage and get great fundraising tips. Help us reach our goal of $315,000!

For more information, please call Nicole Ring at 626.792.7151, ext.167 or email events@phsspca.org. pag e 7

Non-profit Organization U.S. Postage

PAID Pasadena, CA Permit No. 1142

361 South Raymond Avenue Pasadena, CA 91105

Summertime Fun

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cat can safely be outside, provide ample shade and water.

Rabbits Because rabbits are vulnerable to heat, be sure to keep your pet bunny cool on hot days. For easy air-conditioning, put a bottle of ice in the hutch. The bunny will snuggle up to it and keep cool. Also, try lightly spraying your rabbit’s ears when it is hot. This will make him or her cool and happy.

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

July 4th Many pets are frightened by fireworks on the 4th of July. Make certain that your pet is secure during fireworks displays. The Pasadena Humane Society will have extended hours the night of the 4th, and will be open early on July 5th for owners of lost, frightened pets.

Have fun this summer! When you are putting on your sunscreen, include your pet’s nose and the tips of his ears, too. Pack a picnic lunch, including treats for your pet, lots of water and enjoy your adventures!

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 private, non-profit, open door, animal welfare agency serving the communities of Arcadia, The Pasadena Humane Society & SPCA is a Glendale, La Cañada Flintridge, Pasadena, private, non-profit, open door, animal welfare San Marino, Sierra Madre and South Pasadena

agency serving the communities of Arcadia, Glendale, La Cañada Flintridge, Pasadena, San Marino, Sierra Madre and South Pasadena.