"Ain't Nothin' But a Hound Dog", Say it's not so

November 14, 2014 on his way to a new home, he just doesn't know it yet.

Better than a concrete floor

Five days later, what a transformation

I have to admit when it came to hounds the only types I even thought of were the beagle and the basset hound. And then along came Henry, a Treeing Walker Coonhound, whom we renamed Marley.

Our daughter relocated to West Virginia and became involved with the animal shelter in her area, The Greenbrier Humane Society. 

She soon found out that hounds in that area are like pit bulls in our area, no one wants them due to reputation. Here is an interesting history to the Coonhound breed.

Languishing in overcrowded kennels are a breed that people tend to think serve only one purpose, that of hunting dog, a man's dog. If the owner thinks the dog isn't cut out to track down rabbits, fox or coons, than they aren't worth the cost of their upkeep. So out they go. The countless dogs that are picked up by animal control are labeled as strays, with no background to go on to help them get into a forever home. Were they strays because someone dumped them alongside the road? Were they strays because they had their nose to the ground, wandered far and wide, and couldn't find their way back home? A dog that doesn't make a good hunting dog, service dog, retrieving dog, or whatever their particular breed is supposed to excel at, isn't necessarily "stupid". 

These dogs need a break. They need a voice to break the misconceptions about their success as family pets. Elvis didn’t help their image any by singing, “You ain’t nothin’ but a hound dog, cryin’ all the time”. Yes, hounds do have a distinct voice, but in one regard they are not any more annoyingly vocal than any other dog if trapped in a crate, kennel, outdoor dog box for hours on end. Any bored, frustrated, lonely dog is going to bark. However, should a Coonhound do what they were bred to do, which is to tree a racoon (or a cat in the usual neighborhood setting), they will let you know so you can come and see what a good job they've done. Marley can be relentless in his tirade but as soon as he sees me he stops and comes running right to me. Left to their own devices, they'll keep barking till they get bored. In other words, don't just let them outside and forget about them, they do need supervision if you have close neighbors.

I have found our Marley "quick as a whip". Dogs only want to please, and with a consistent routine, they soon learn what is expected of them. Most behavior problems stem from a dog's confusion as to what he is supposed to do. Rescue dogs are all the more of a challenge, because you are most likely going to have to help him regain human trust, undo bad habits and deal with past traumatic experiences or neglect. Patience is the key to success with a rescue.

I took this dog in with the full understanding of the challenge I had with a dog who suffered neglect and most likely had no clue how to live in a house. Supervision is paramount, just like with a young child. Think of a two year old. A dog's mouth is our hands. Everything a child sees, he has to touch. Everything a puppy sees, he has to touch, and that can mean destruction. Many times, these dogs may first appear calm and meek. It only took a consistent full belly, a warm bed, health issues addressed, and increased confidence that this new family was his very own, and an amazing transformation took place. This supposedly low energy, depressed dog turned into an energy dynamo with the potential to get into a lot of trouble.  My thoughts were, oh great, I just adopted a 45 pound puppy. One thing I found out pretty quick was that this breed needs exercise and lots of it. At least with Marley, if he is wound up with no outlet he will pace and whine and pace some more. But this lanky, impulsive adolescent can just melt your heart when it comes time to settle down. He just can't get enough snuggle time, and it is adorable with his long, deer-like legs sprawled every which way.

My two stipulations were that he be good with my cats and my other dogs. Hounds are bred to hunt in packs of two to four dogs, therefore are by nature very social animals. It took only days for my little pack of three to establish its status order. Hounds are not aggressive dogs, and will avoid a fight if at all possible. A few squabbles, which do sound worse than they really are, and within days Marley was accepted and included in their play, as well as sleeping area.

As far as getting along with cats, some are and some aren't. It didn't take long before Marley knew which cats to leave alone. After careful observation, I now know he only wants to play, but being such a strong dog, he could end up hurting them. Therefore, once again, supervision at all times he is out of the crate, is necessary for a while.

We're only a few months into this new chapter in my crazy household, so I intend to update this post as Marley matures. The whole point is to do your research before you let big, sad eyes make your decision for you. Be prepared to have the time and energy for taking on the unknown. 

But, rest assured, the rewards in rescue, fostering and/or adoption far outweigh the extra work. 

You are saving a life.

A heartfelt thank you to the hard-working staff at Greenbrier Humane Society and all rescue groups who give it their all to take care of  homeless animals until foster groups or forever families can be found. 

Click here for a good article on what to expect before adopting a pet.

 

This little book  by September B. Morn is a gem for understanding dog behavior.

Here we have a great advice video on housebreaking a dog of any age.

In this first of a two-part series, Dr. Karen Becker discusses the four key principles for housebreaking a dog of any age.

"Up to 25 percent of dogs relinquished to animal shelters by their owners end up there due to housebreaking problems. The same statistic applies to dogs seen by veterinarians -- 25 percent of behavior-related visits to vets concern toileting."

Two months later

Though Marley doesn't get to see her much, he still has a special bond with his rescuer

 

Three months later

 Marley received his collar from Astro Invisible Fencing so now he can run free and play!!!
 So many problems solved with enough exercise
Be aware that the underground invisible fence system may not work for all hound dogs.
If possible, an actual, physical fence at least six feet high is ideal.


Here is the six month later update

Declawing Indoor Cats, Is it Really Necessary?

Growing up on a farm, the attitude towards animals was that they belong outside. When the day came for setting up my own household, which included pets, I just went along with the advice given about having cats indoors. I had this image that if I didn't declaw my cats my carpets and furniture would be in shreds.

That attitude came to an end 20 years ago with the declawing of my little Kimba. She was found as a kitten on the side of a country road, and when she reached the age to be spayed, the appointment automatically included the declaw without any discussion from the veterinarian about the pros and cons.

Kimba had such a sweet nature that I seriously doubt she ever would've been a problem anyway with damaging anything in the house. Her toes had a lot of trouble healing properly and a few of the nails even grew back, but were deformed. Needless to say, I felt terrible for taking a perfectly behaved kitten and creating a lifetime of anxiety issues with the litter box. The grit probably hurt her, and being wary of the litter box, she used other spots to do her business.

Declawing indoor cats became commonplace after the 1940's. People falsely assume that declawing is just like trimming your nails or getting a manicure.This is not true. The last digit of each toe is cut off, not just the nail.



It is believed that if the procedure is done before the age of six months of age, the cat heals quickly and gets along just fine without them. If an experienced veterinarian performs the procedure right, no residual pain supposedly occurs; but that is up for debate. So what do those of us who had used experienced veterinarians do once it is too late?

Cats that have had their front claws removed continue to stretch and paw their toes as if the nails were still there. They derive the same satisfaction from this as clawed cats. It is the nature of cats to use their claws in their everyday lives. Kneading and climbing is all part of play and feeling a sense of confidence in defending themselves. Cats have extraordinary balance. Without claws, they may lose some of that coordination. It may not be noticeable in a typical home setting, but is very obvious with a cat trying to scamper up a tree to escape a dangerous situation.



Cats feel safe in high places. To no longer be able to simply leap and climb with the agility it once had is psychologically devastating, and definitely puts its physical safety at risk. Indoor cats can easily slip out of doors. Once out of the safety of their homes, they are all alone and at a greater risk without their most valuable natural defense.

Feeling insecure, some declawed cats become aggressive and may develop a tendency to bite. So the theory that cats need to be declawed to be safe around young children is simply not always true. Pet owners may be creating the very situation they thought they were doing the right thing to avoid.



Ways to handle a cat's natural urge to stretch, knead and sharpen its claws against objects is to invest in cat scratchers or cat furniture with sisal rope around the posts; and to trim those nails every 6 weeks. Cats will naturally be drawn to a good quality cat tree with a scratching post wrapped with sisal rope. Don't waste money on cheap cat trees of inferior quality. If the thing isn't sturdy and moves or jiggles when used, a cat won't use it. Carpet wrapped posts are pretty but sisal rope is the best for nail clawing satisfaction.

Today, veterinarians are more apt to discourage the declawing of cats, some even refuse to perform the surgery. Perhaps in most cases the cat seems fine afterwards, but is the procedure necessary in the first place? 

In my opinion, no. If our fur babies could speak, I'm sure they would agree.

Easter Bunnies and Children, What you Need to Know

 
Spring is the season for new beginnings, new life and images of cute baby animals associated with anything to do with Easter. Chicks, ducklings and baby rabbits are adorable, therefore easily exploited by pet stores and breeders as perfect gifts for Easter time.

Think long and hard before adopting any pet, much less impulsively caving in to your children's pleas to take home those furry or fluffy little bodies at the pet or farm supply store. These animals are not toys. They are living, breathing, feeling beings who require responsible care from someone committed to their welfare.

Babies don't stay babies for long and far too often, once the novelty wears off, these animals end up neglected or abandoned. Quiet animals are the most at risk, since it is far too easy to simply forget about them. It is hard to ignore a hungry cat or dog, but a bunny cannot speak for itself, nor is it easy to get anyone's attention while locked in a cage.

If you do decide to bring home a bunny, do not put it in the care of your child. Rabbits may be easy to love, but they are not low maintenance pets. They are lovable, social creatures who can live ten years or more with the proper care. If at all possible, try to support your local animal shelters or rescue groups. It is always better to adopt an animal in need of a home rather than support the breeding industry of the pet store.

Domestic rabbits should live indoors. They are not the same as their wild relatives. They don't tolerate the extremes in weather conditions of the outdoors, especially the heat during the summer months. Rabbits frighten very easily. Just the sight or sound of a predator animal can cause enough stress for a rabbit to suffer a heart attack.

Your bunny's home within your home must be a safe zone. Rabbits like to chew and can do a lot of damage to furniture, wall corners, baseboards and electrical cords if left unattended. Houseplants such as aloe, azalea, Calla lily, Lily of the Valley, philodendron and certain bulbs can be poisonous. There is nothing wrong with periodically letting your bunny run around to play and explore. Rabbits need the socialization, stimulation and exercise, just keep a close eye on them. Otherwise, provide a nice roomy cage for your bunny to call his own. 

A rabbit's cage should be at least five times his size. He needs to be able to completely stretch out and stand up on his back legs without bumping the sides or the top of the cage. If the cage only came with a wire bottom, be sure to layer the floor with cardboard of some type of nontoxic material. The feet of rabbits don't have protective pads like those of cats and dogs, so they are tender and susceptible to injury if forced to step on wire all the time. Also, provide a hiding area for quiet time, such as a cardboard box or bunny condo from the pet store. 

Your rabbit is safe in his cage, but don't think just because he is often still and quiet that he doesn't need stimulation and interaction. Rabbits are social creatures. Optimally, it would be wonderful if two bunnies around the same age could be adopted at the same time. If you already have a rabbit and want to give it some company, check with a rescue group as to how to introduce them so they will bond.

Rabbits are clean animals and can be litter box trained. Even if a litter box isn't provided, they often choose on their own to do their business in a chosen corner of the cage. Just by saying the word litter box people may think that means to add kitty litter. Do not use cat litter. The ideal bedding should be made of wood pulp or paper. Don't use cedar or treated wood shavings, as they can cause liver damage or trigger allergic reactions. 

Pet stores sell rabbit pellets, but don't rely on that as the basis for your pet's diet. Rabbits have complex digestive systems. Rabbits need hay, namely Timothy grass hay. Alfalfa hay is high in protein, calcium and calories, so should only be given periodically in limited amounts.
Besides the pellets and hay, make an effort to include leafy, dark green vegetables such as romaine and leaf lettuces (not iceberg lettuce), parsley, dandelion greens, collard greens, chickweed, etc. Variety is important. Like everyone, treats are appreciated, but best in moderation. Rabbits enjoy carrots, apple slices, strawberries, melon, peaches and blueberries. Grapes and raisins are good too, but being more sugary, limit how often you offer those.
Foods to avoid include: iceberg lettuce, tomatoes, cabbage, corn, beans, peas, beets, seeds, grains and rhubarb.

Rabbits need fresh water daily. Make sure you rabbit is shown where and how to use the sipper bottle. Be sure to clean the bottle and tube whenever the water gets changed. If you choose to use a bowl instead of the sipper bottle, be sure it is a heavy ceramic type so as to avoid being tipped.

To avoid problems with the teeth as well as provide amusement, keep untreated wood blocks or cardboard in the cage. Empty toilet paper and paper towel tubes are great for bunnies to chew and play. Avoid anything with sharp edges or rubber and plastics that can be chewed and swallowed.

Rabbits are fragile and must be handled carefully. A struggling rabbit can do itself damage because its bones are delicate in comparison to the powerful muscles in their hind legs.
To pick up your rabbit, place one hand underneath the front of the rabbit and the other hand underneath his back side, lifting him carefully with both hands and bringing him against your body. Never let a rabbit’s body hang free, never lift by the stomach, and never pick a rabbit up by his ears.

Rabbits enjoy being petted but may need time to tolerate being picked up. Be very careful with supervising young children when they handle their bunnies. Rabbits cannot cough up hairballs, so try to pet and/or brush them daily to remove excess fur. Breeds like angoras definitely have grooming needs so be aware of that before bringing home the long-haired types.

Like any pet, rabbits need to receive periodic medical care. Be sure to find a veterinarian with experience with rabbits or find a vet who specializes in exotic pets.
The decision to spay or neuter your rabbit is your choice, but in doing so you not only prevent unwanted litters of kits but eliminate the risk of cancer. Neutering males eliminates the risk of testicular cancer and can reduce aggression and territory-marking behaviors. Spaying females eliminates the risk of reproductive cancers very common as they get older.
Again, be sure to know what experience your vet has had with rabbits. We once had a devastating experience when we lost a bunny under anesthesia, not realizing how sensitive rabbits are to the type of anesthesia typically used for cats, and just assumed the vet was aware of that.

So Happy Easter, and enjoy these wonderful additions to your family!

 

TRIBUTE TO A DEAR FRIEND

 
 “Until one has loved an animal, a part of one’s soul remains unawakened.” 
--  Anatole France


It has often been said with rescued animals that the rescuing goes both ways. When my daughter took in an older cat she was living away from home while in Grad School. Under a lot of pressure with her studies, trying to find her way on her own, and lonely for the comforts and company from back home. Our home is a lively place, to put it mildly. We have always opened our door to animals in need of a home, and our children grew up into very aware and giving people. To live in a quiet, sterile, environment was taking its toll on Aleka's emotional and physical health. She needed life around her and the comfort of a companion by her side.

Enter Mozart into our lives. He was a 12 year old cat in need of a home for the third time. Due to no fault of his own he found himself on the way to the humane society unless he could be placed. There was something about him that drew him to my daughter. She received all the usual warnings about the risks of adopting an older pet, such as health issues, behavior problems, unknown history, blah blah blah.

Anyone who has had cats knows that it is impossible to simply state, "I don't like cats". Every cat we've ever had was a unique individual; some lap cats, some not, some sprayers, most not, some into everything, some content to sleep all day, some bullies, some timid. Mozart was the perfect gentleman. He was very intuitive to Aleka's moods, often being very attentive and always nearby. The perfect remedy to reduce stress, lift depression, take an edge off loneliness.

When he visibly started to lose weight after only a year, there were tests run and observations made. Devastated by the news of cancer, my daughter and her fiance just pulled that cat even closer. Other than the weight loss his behavior initially didn't show any outward signs of distress, but after only six weeks he dropped from fifteen pounds to nine pounds. By that point, he was put on an appetite stimulant and additional nutritional supplements. Hesitant to go the route of steroids, by eight weeks he was put on a ten day supply of prednisone just to help him feel better, which it did, though we knew we were just biding time. At the first sign he was in any discomfort, the decision had to be made whether to let nature take its course, or to give Mozart the final gift of their love. Now down to only six pounds, when it was noticeable that his breathing had become more labored and had problems relieving himself, they made the hardest decision they've ever had to make in their young lives.

The first day or two after saying good-bye, there were plenty of well wishers to offer condolences. But as things go, people return to their own worlds pretty quickly and that is when the shock wears off and the sinking begins. The loss surrounding the death of a pet and the difficulty in coping with one's feelings of grief is very real. People who haven't the experience of loving and losing a pet may have a hard time understanding and give the impression that "it was just a cat". Such an attitude makes the person grieving feel "silly" or "guilty" or overreacting, which only adds to the pain and may interrupt the necessary stages of grief.

Our pets are a very real part of our families, not just another possession. Every time we give a piece of our hearts to something that unconditionally loves us back, our heart swells a bit more, leaving more to ache with each loss. The worst thing to do is to bottle things up inside and go into denial mode of your feelings. If you put up a wall to experiencing pain, you become a shell that tends to harden. Life will go on, but at some point something will trigger and that shell with crack, crumble and you fall apart.

Don't let anyone make you feel silly for being sad or emotional. You are not weak. You are a caring soul which is what being human is all about.

Don't get caught up in the self-blaming trap of "if only" or "I should have done...".  We do the best we can with the information we have and the circumstances life bestows upon us. At some point we have to accept "what is".  Animals don't torture themselves the way people do. They don't worry about things or regret past decisions and when it comes to illness, as long as they feel safe and loved, their passing is often very peaceful.

Surround yourself with people who are truly empathetic. Let yourself cry in front of those who care about you. It is very stress relieving, and you will feel better. A true friendship is when someone is willing to sit patiently as you cry and rant, without feeling the need to "solve anything". If need be, seek the support of pet loss groups.

Find a way to channel your sadness. Get involved at an animal shelter or start making regular donations to a cause that means a lot to you. Make a scrapbook of photos to commemorate your loss. To find some meaning in the whole experience is one way to avoid the feeling like you are drowning.




Below is an article taken from petmemorialworld
  "A large scale study of Cat  intestinal cancer reveals some interesting results that will not only benefit cats, but could also benefit humans down the road. The oncology department at the MU College of Veterinary Medicine conducted  the study on 1,129 cases of intestinal tumors in cats. The large sample was able to span 47 years of cancer and give some detailed results.
The most common intestinal cancers discovered in the cats were lymphoma (cancer of the immune system), and most of the cancers showed up in the small intestines.
The cat breed most at risk of intestinal cancer was the Siamese. With the most at risk group being the male Siamese aged 7 years or older.
As reported by http://www.sciencedaily.com, associate teaching professor Kim Selting reveals:

“This is important because there are very few population-based studies that allow us to evaluate cancer and risk factors on such a large scale,” Selting said. “Pet owners should be on the lookout for unexplained weight loss, vomiting and diarrhea, because these issues can be associated with intestinal cancer.”
Selting says that tracking animal cancer is important because animals share the environment with humans. By noting patterns of cancer development, doctors and veterinarians may become aware of environmental factors that could be causing tumor progression in different species, including humans. This is a fine example of helping animals ultimately benefiting humans. Let us hope that they are indeed able to find a cure for cancer in cats."

Mozart's final days

When asked if they regretted adopting an older pet, the answer is a definite no. The idea of older animals who once knew a loving home to find themselves alone at the end of their lives is heartbreaking. Even if only for a little while, these animals have a lot of life in them and love to share. All they ask for is a forever home.

A POEM FOR THE GRIEVING…

Do not stand at my grave and weep.
I am not there, I do not sleep.
I am a thousand winds that blow,
I am the diamond glints on snow.
I am the sunlight on ripened grain,
I am the gentle autumn’s rain.
When you awaken in the morning’s hush,
I am the swift uplifting rush
of quiet birds in circled flight.
I am the stars that shine at night.
Do not stand at my grave and cry,
I am not there, I did not die…

-Anonymous

 THE RAINBOW BRIDGE

There is a bridge connecting Heaven and Earth. It is called the Rainbow Bridge because of its many colours. Just this side of the Rainbow Bridge there is a land of meadows, hills and valleys with lush green grass.

When a beloved pet dies, the pet goes to this place. There is always food and water and warm spring weather. All the animals who have been ill and old are restored to health and vigour; those who were hurt or maimed are made whole and strong again, just as we remember them in our dreams of days and times gone by.

The animals are happy and content, except for one small thing; they each miss someone very special to them, who had to be left behind. They all run and play together, but the day comes when one suddenly stops and looks into the distance. Her bright eyes are intent; her eager body begins to quiver. Suddenly she begins to run from the group, flying over the green grass, her legs carrying her faster and faster.

You have been spotted, and when you and your special friend finally meet, you cling together in joyous reunion. The happy kisses rain upon your face; your hands again caress the beloved head, and you look once more into the trusting eyes of your pet, so long gone from your life but never absent from your heart.

Then you cross the Rainbow Bridge together, never again to be separated.

Author Unknown