Planes, Trains and Automobiles: Traveling Safely with Your Pets

HomeAgain Newsletter

Hitting the road (or the air) with your pets can make your vacation more fun than ever. But even though you can already feel the sand beneath your toes and taste that Mai Tai, remember that Fido or Fluffy doesn’t know he’s about to take a trip.

First and foremost, determine whether it’s wise to bring Fido along at all. Will he love putting his paws in the sand? Or does the beach allow dogs? Will your cat scratch the hotel furniture to pieces? Sometimes the most pet-friendly option is going it alone and letting your pet stay at a clean, friendly kennel.

Your first trip is to the vet
Many destinations require that your pet have a clean bill of health, certified within 10 days of departure and documentation of rabies vaccination. Your vet visit is a good time to ask for international pet-travel advice, get familiar with your pet’s medical history or get the number of an emergency vet at your destination.

Now is the time to fine-tune your pet's behavior, too. Any mischievous inclinations could derail your trip quickly. For dogs, perfect their ability to stay, heel and walk comfortably with a collar and leash. Carry pick-up bags and a solution of vinegar-water in case of an accident, but don’t reinforce your dog’s behavior if he shows anxiety. Just clean up and move onto something new.

Friendly skies (and rails) ahead
Pet travel can be a little nerve-wracking, but if you’ve already worked on pet-friendly behavior before you get to the airport or train station, you and Fido should arrive at your destination ready to relax. If you’re a nervous flier or worried about traveling, Fido will pick up on it. Remember to stay calm.

Book your trip as far in advance as you can and try to book a direct flight or express train. Each airline has its own cat- or dog-friendly travel rules that you will need to learn. Follow all of them exactly for a smooth trip.

Make sure you understand all crate restrictions well before you travel.
Your crate or carrier should be strong and large enough for your dog or cat to stand up and turn around inside. Make sure your pet has plenty of air. Food and water should be positioned to avoid spilling. If your pet is traveling in the plane’s cargo area, label the crate with the words, “LIVE ANIMAL,” and include your contact information. Create an environment that is welcoming and familiar for your pet. Blankets, toys and treats can help.

Buckle up for car-traveling fun
Road trips make for great dog-friendly travel because chances are you and your pup have already hit the road together. You may not have traveled much with your cat yet, but take a few warm-up rides before you go and increase the distance gradually.

Shop for cat or dog car seats far enough in advance that you can both get used to the one you pick. For small dogs, puppies and cats, look for basket-style seats with a comfortable harness. Never let your dog hang his head out the window—the debris could scratch his eyes or damage his throat.

Stop frequently for leg-stretching and bathroom breaks and bring along dry food as snacks or treats. If you leave your pet in a car seat alone for a few minutes, make sure the temperature is comfortable and provide appropriate ventilation. The temperature in a parked car in warmer months or climates can kill your pet in a matter of minutes.

Checking in
Your dog’s behavior at your resort or hotel is particularly important. If there is a problem, the hotel does not have to honor the entirety of your reservation. Keep your dog’s behavior in check so that everyone has a good time. Don’t leave him alone and don’t allow barking or chewing.

When you arrive at your hotel room, set up an area that includes all your pet’s comfort items from his crate. Learn immediately where you are allowed to go with your pet and then take him for a walk to establish a routine—and, as always, clean up after him with pick-up bags or vinegar-water if there is an accident.

Including your pet in your summer travel is an amazing bonding experience that you’ll remember for a long time. Just make sure you take the right precautions so that the trip is as fun for you as it is for Fido. Happy trails!

Erasers trip to Chesterfield, the last word...

Contributed by Eraser and Cindy's former foster dad

the new staff for the mayor called me and told me the trip went well after theylet the mayor handle the logistics, being the consumate politition tho he turned the trip into a whistle stop campain trip. the new staff said they just love theboth of them and thank everyone who helped in the match

and remember : You will never reach your destination if you stop an throw stone at every barking dog. Better to keep biscuits and move on.

Friday's Funnies!

Raising Duncan


by Chris Browne

Col. Potter needs you to listen in and participate tonight at 6:40 PM!

TPPC.tv Community for Pet Lovers

Listen in via this connection tonight at 6:40 PM!

Listen to internet radio with TPPCTV on Blog Talk Radio

Col. Potter's Board of Director's member Amy Robinson is going to have a telephone interview on the Pets Teach Us So Much Radio Show to talk about our fundraising cookbook and this is scheduled for today, at 6:40 PM EST on July 7.

They will be publishing links and pictures related to Col. Potter's fundraising efforts on their blog and the link is on the upper right hand corner of CP's blog to their blog, “Pets Teach Us So Much Blog” and our Pets Teach Us So Much Radio Show Page on Blog Talk Radio.

We want to advertise her appearance with ours fans and followers. Please join in the chat room during the show to ask questions and participate during the show. We often read the comments from the chat room during the show. Click here for the direct link to the show or click above.

We're looking forward to this and hope you will all participate 'live' so to speak!

Col Potter's Rainbow Surprise

Contributed by a CP Intakes Volunteer

Please help welcome CP's newest little one, Regenbogen ( pronounced - Ragenbo-long o -gen) which means Rainbow in German. She is named in honor of CP's Rainbow, Fostered by Monica R and Sandy A, and adopted by Marlene and Chuck T.

Regenbogen is a tiny 12 pound wheaten girl, 6 years young. She is sweet, friendly, and very curious about new things. By all reports, she is a happy, easy-go-lucky sweetheart.

Welcome Regenbogen!

More pictures of Patriotic Pups!

Twitch

Sarut

Abbie and Gem

Kayla and Sadie

Wacky Wednesday!

Wednesday is the day to be WACKY! Each week we will showcase a terrierific cairn picture with an appropriate caption. If you have a terrierific cairn and would like us to consider YOUR picture and caption for an upcoming "Wacky Wednesday" send it to us at cpcrnblog@gmail.com! (All photo submissions become the property of CPCRN and may be used for fundraising, promotion and/or outreach purposes.)

A big shout out to Abby and Bella, for being our Wacky Wednesday models this week!

LET FREEDOM RING ... FOR ONE MORE CAIRN!

Written by CP's VP of Intakes

July 4 -- Independence Day in the United States -- a day to celebrate and cherish our freedom. The endeavours of our founding fathers -- Washington, Hamilton, Jefferson -- to name a few, laid the foundation more than 200 years ago. The fight for freedom continues today. Col. Potter is part of that fight -- we fight for the freedom of those that can't fight or defend themselves -- the furkids.

Celebrations were held across the US this weekend with fireworks displays, singing of patriotic songs and diddies and of course family gatherings at a BBQ. One volunteer took time from her own celebrations to travel to a small town in Indiana Saturday night. While she sat waiting for the rescue angel to arrive, the local town folks noticed her and invited her to join them in watching their fireworks display. She appreciated the offer, but knew there would be enough to celebrate when her precious cargo arrived and found FREEDOM!

With bombs bursting overhead, fireworks lighting up the night sky and a heart filled with joy, Carolynne M. and the newest member of the CP family then made the long trip home -- the very first leg of his journey to freedom and a happily ever after.

With a salute to the red, white and blue, please help me welcome Rudi G. estimated at 5 months old. His name was donated as part of the Name a Cairn program by Trudi M. in memory of Rudi Goode, beloved Cairn son of Juli Goode. I just know that some of those fireworks that welcomed Rudi G. were caused by celebrating from his special Guardian Angel.

Rudi G. has found his way into the Col. Potter family, where we continue the fight with our work to achieve "liberty and justice for all".

Summer - time to watch out for these doggie hazards

Contributed by a CP Volunteer


I've never written anything on the site before but here it goes and hope it's helpful or everyone can say of course I know that. Well here goes!

I was reviewing my doggy first aid course material and thinking of some of the mishaps that have occurred to our wonderful furkids or the neighbors and wanted to express some thoughts.

Summer Fun:

• Dogs only perspire at their paws so a good way to cool them is to have them stand in cool water and cool their groin area

• Before you decide to go on that walk in the heat of the day take your shoes off and step on that hot sidewalk. Not a good time to walk.

• Bring water on walks even early in AM and in PM

• Of course the car is a NO NO even for a second in hot weather.

• Don't forget to give your dog a good massage looking for tic tail areas and
ears are favorites after a work or play.

For the back yard

• Check out the wonderful plants – some may be poisonous to furkids

• What about the bees - two of mine furkids love to pounce on them and get them in their mouths luckily they are not allergic , but I have found out from the vet the baby gel cap to pin prick and squirt it in their mouths to give them to hold until I can get to the vet if need be.

• Fence gates. Coming from out to in I had Andre mount a baby gate on the inside in case he doesn't know if the pups are out so they won't run out on him when he opens the big 6' door. It also works well when neighbor kids want to see new fosters and the fosters aren't ready for kids or just aren't kid friendly or you aren't kid friendly that day for the neighbor kids. Smile!

• Stagnant water in the yard is bad for furkids

• Watch out for birds of prey – we had one fly over and our 16 pound MacKenzie ran for cover totally scared

• Lovely chemicals on the lawn take forever to dissolve and furkids love to eat grass sometimes

• Then those wonderful pool noodles YUMM YUMM and all the other pool toys

• Can your furkids climb the pool ladder - mine can. Make sure those stairs are secure or removed if you can

• Oh those kids next door always throwing stuff over the fence and poking sticks through the fence……we cannot wait for the terrible 5's to pass

• Oh almost forgot those chlorine tablets look appealing and that electrical cord for the pool pump why not run it through PVC or something else that the pups won't chew.

Boy you could go on forever – we do a check of the outdoors every day

Now for inside

Think toddler and all those small items that go in the mouth. And what fun a home office or children's toys can be or a teenager who drops sugar free gum on the floor and who knows what else. (We are still trying to trade the teenager for another furkid but those state laws are interfering……..). Keep them in a safe area just like you would do a baby.

Our one foster loves to lick the floor so I need to really be careful and rinse the floor well if I need to sanitize after a fur kid oops.

Doggy First Aid Kit

Do you have one so you do not yell at your spouse when something does happen.

I hope it never happens to any of us but the perfect splint for our size dogs (cairns) is the internal toilet paper roll. Maybe put one aside for the day that we hope never comes.

Don't use peroxide to flush a wound because if a clot has begun to form the peroxide will destroy it.

Sorry this is so long but I try to review my first aid stuff every month and with the new season I hope you don't mind me sharing.

Helping dogs cope with firework and thunderstorm phobias

By Karen Fazio/New Jersey Pets

One of the most devastating conditions a dog may suffer from is fear of loud sounds.

Pets suffering from this condition are classified as phobic. Most react to all loud sounds, however, sounds that have most impact on behavior are those associated with thunder storms and firework displays.

Many noise-phobic dogs also suffer from additional fear-related issues such as fear of strangers, new experiences, and inanimate objects. Veterinary behaviorists, such as Dr. Nicholas H. Dodman, founder and director of the Animal Behavior Clinic at Tufts University Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine, often diagnose such dogs with Global Fear. These dogs, he explains, are caught up in a perpetual Bermuda triangle of fear.

Those suffering from global fear issues are often treated by some veterinary behaviorists with selective seratonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), such as Prozac, Zolof, Paxil. Others who have no fears other than those associated with thunderstorms and fireworks are often treated with a short-acting sedative to help them cope during the often anticipated and brief event.

There are many wonderful non-medical alternatives for helping a dog cope with firework and thunderstorm phobias. Some include:

Sit Out the Firework Display: An owner can decline invitations to firework displays in lieu of keeping their dog company.

Increase Energy Output: Exercise the dog and physically tucker him or her out an hour or so prior to a sound event. A tired dog has less energy to to devote to stress.

Relocate the Dog: Provide an alternative location for the dog, such as a friend or family member's home where no firework displays are planned.

Create a Safe Room: Provide the dog with a carpeted room free of windows, or windows that are closed. Play music or leave the television on as a distraction. One can hang bedsheets or blankets on the walls for extra noise insulation.

Block Out Scary Visuals: Draw down shades or blinds to block out frightening flashes of light, which often serve as predictors to the dog that scary sounds will soon follow.

Fit the Dog with a Thundershirt: A Thundershirt replicates the sensation of swaddling, which is a technique often used for calming newborn infants in nurseries. Many have found swaddling calms dogs equally as well.

Help Soothe the Dog's Fears: Contrary to popular belief, soothing a fearful dog does not encourage fearful behavior. If the dog responds to it then you're doing the right thing. If it doesn't, then it simply didn't work.

Fourth of July Safety Tips

ASPCA Fourth of July Safety Tips

For many people, nothing beats lounging in the backyard on the Fourth of July with good friends and family—including the four-legged members of the household. While it may seem like a great idea to reward Rover with scraps from the grill and bring him along to watch fireworks, in reality some festive foods and products can be potentially hazardous to your pets. The ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center offers the following tips:

Never leave alcoholic drinks unattended where pets can reach them. Alcoholic beverages have the potential to poison pets. If ingested, the animal could become very intoxicated and weak, severely depressed or could go into a coma. Death from respiratory failure is also a possibility in severe cases.

Do not apply any sunscreen or insect repellent product to your pet that is not labeled specifically for use on animals. Ingestion of sunscreen products can result in drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, excessive thirst and lethargy. The misuse of insect repellent that contains DEET can lead to neurological problems.

Always keep matches and lighter fluid out of your pets’ reach. Certain types of matches contain chlorates, which could potentially damage blood cells and result in difficulty breathing—or even kidney disease in severe cases. Lighter fluid can be irritating to skin, and if ingested can produce gastrointestinal irritation and central nervous system depression. If lighter fluid is inhaled, aspiration pneumonia and breathing problems could develop.

Keep your pets on their normal diet. Any change, even for one meal, can give your pets severe indigestion and diarrhea. This is particularly true for older animals who have more delicate digestive systems and nutritional requirements. And keep in mind that foods such as onions, chocolate, coffee, avocado, grapes & raisins, salt and yeast dough can all be potentially toxic to companion animals.

Do not put glow jewelry on your pets, or allow them to play with it. While the luminescent substance contained in these products is not highly toxic, excessive drooling and gastrointestinal irritation could still result from ingestions, and intestinal blockage could occur from swallowing large pieces of the plastic containers.

Keep citronella candles, insect coils and oil products out of reach. Ingestions can produce stomach irritation and possibly even central nervous system depression. If inhaled, the oils could cause aspiration pneumonia in pets.

Never use fireworks around pets! While exposure to lit fireworks can potentially result in severe burns and/or trauma to the face and paws of curious pets, even unused fireworks can pose a danger. Many types contain potentially toxic substances, including potassium nitrate, arsenic and other heavy metals.

Loud, crowded fireworks displays are no fun for pets, so please resist the urge to take them to Independence Day festivities. Instead, keep your little guys safe from the noise in a quiet, sheltered and escape-proof area at home.

Sunday Sweets - Independence Day

Sunday is full of SWEETS! Each week we will showcase the sweeter side of Cairns. If you have a sweet filled cairn and would like us to consider YOUR picture for an upcoming "Sunday Sweets" send it to us at cpcrnblog@gmail.com! (All photo submissions become the property of CPCRN and may be used for fundraising, promotion and/or outreach purposes.)

Rebel, Callie and Roary

Kayle and Sadie

Scarlett

Minnie

Twitch

Spanky

WV CRAP 2009 Heroes

Meatloaf

Meet Matt, CP's New Boy in Town

Written by CP's VP of Intakes



Do you believe in fate, in the afterlife, karma and destiny? Do you believe all things happen for a reason? Do you believe that you can make something good out of something bad? If you are given lemons, do you try to make lemonade?

A little one year old male Cairn found himself surrendered to a small, local, overcrowded shelter. His former family had not been the right place for him, but he was scared and alone at this shelter. He wasn't showing his potential and most animals that arrive at this shelter don't walk out alive. This little boy deserved a second chance with people who would understand him and who would give him the help, training, care and love that he so badly wanted but had not received.

The shelter, desperate for help, contacted Col. Potter. Would we consider taking this boy that wasn't good with children, who was scared, shy and withdrawn at the shelter? Intakes can't help all that we would like to, but we could help this boy!

With the help and guiding light of a very special Angel watching over this boy, please help me welcome Matt! His name was donated in the Name a Cairn Program in honor and memory of a little male cairn who was not given a second chance despite heroic efforts by members of the Intakes Team.

CP is now your launching pad, the sky's your limit and we know with the help of your wonderful foster home, you will achieve all you endeavor Matt!

Please Welcome Honey Bun

Written by a CP Intakes volunteer



A hundred and one pounds of fun, that’s our little Honey Bun! That's from the musical South Pacific, but our Honey Bun is actually only 15 lbs. Thank goodness!

Honey Bun had a rough start in life. She was owned by a breeder and was going to be euthanized because she wasn’t producing. A young military family rescued her and gave her a happy home for the past few years. However, as often happens in military life, another base transfer left the owners with few options for what to do with their little cairn. So they contacted Col. Potter to see if we could take her and find her the kind of home and life she deserves. Thanks to Kathy and Barney, she was delivered to CP safely and got a bath, haircut and nail trim.

Honey Bun is 8 years young and ready to start her new adventure!

Welcome little girl!

Eraser says farewell

Once the gentle breeze blew down the main street rustling the leaves ,the sunshone bright, inviting all its citizen outside to walk. they walked past the city hall and sometimes saw the Mayor in the window,he looked up from his busy work and always had time to wave and smile , when they were really lucky they could see his sweet cindy with him.

But now the wind blows the shutters on the old city hall , the Inwood Outhouse is tipped over and the wind blows dust and tumbleweed down the main street, the inviting rustle of the leaves is now just discarded paper and trash can lids.

Our beloved Mayor is gone to a new life and a new city to rule. many people think a city is its citizens but Inwood City was its mayors dream come true, a utopia for everyone to dream a big dream, Eraser and Cindy say goodbye and wish everyone well and happiness.

Friday's Funnies

by Hagen Cartoons

Welcome to CP Maisie!

Contributed by a CP Intakes Volunteer


Maisie was picked up as a stray and taken to the local shelter. She appeared to be well taken care of, however no one came looking for her. After several days, the shelter was able to track down her owners, who sadly, did not want her back.

CP was called, and Maisie quickly became a CP furkid. I’d like everyone to give Maisie a big CP welcome.

Wacky Wednesday!

Wednesday is the day to be WACKY! Each week we will showcase a terrierific cairn picture with an appropriate caption. If you have a terrierific cairn and would like us to consider YOUR picture and caption for an upcoming "Wacky Wednesday" send it to us at cpcrnblog@gmail.com! (All photo submissions become the property of CPCRN and may be used for fundraising, promotion and/or outreach purposes.)

A big shout out to Gabby, Tess, Rocky and Wookie, the 'Calliope kids' for being our Wacky Wednesday models this week!

Please Welcome Kelly Anne

Contributed by a CP Intakes Team Volunteer


Kelly Anne became a Col Potter girl earlier this week. She had been picked up as a stray and held in a rural shelter for several days but no one claimed her. She was out of time when the rescue team found out about her and again, thanks to an incredible CP volunteer (there are so many), she is now safely in the Col Potter family.

Kelly Anne is estimated to be 4-5 years old and is a tiny little girl – weighing in at just 13.2 lbs. She’ll be arriving at her foster home very late tonight where she’ll be welcomed with open arms.

Thank you Susan B for dropping everything and answering the plea for help in picking her up from that rural shelter and delivering her to the vet.

Random Acts of Kindness: When her dog slipped away, the UPS man provided safety

June 23, 2011 Pittsburgh Post-Gazette by James Hilston/Post-Gazette

On June 2, after walking my cairn terrier around the block, I attached a 6-foot lead to her harness while I watered my flowers.

I went, with my hose, to the back of my house to water two tomato plants -- a minute job. I could hear her barking, until I didn't ...

I could discern a truck stopping at the front of my house and panic engulfed me. I ran to the front and saw Betsy's harness and lead stretched out on the grass, minus my girl (my life). I saw a truck stopped, with no dog, no barking.

But instead of disaster, I could hear a wonderful UPS driver talking to my dog, keeping her stationary with a kind voice: "Do you want to come in?" I ran around the front of that big beautiful brown truck and saw my Betsy with her two front paws on its first step.

I grabbed her and tried my best to thank the driver. At the same time, all I could picture was what could have happened with a 15-pound dog vs. a UPS truck. This kind driver had blocked other traffic for Betsy's safety by stopping in the middle of the street.

He told me that he thought someone would be looking for this little dog soon. Oh, thank you, kind driver of the big brown truck. You saved my life, as well as Betsy's. What a humanitarian!

Canine Pals can be your workout partners!

By Arden Moore Universal Uclick

Published: Tuesday, Jun. 21, 2011 - 12:00 am

Who says that exercise must be limited to sweating at the gym, fighting for an elliptical machine or failing to keep pace in a spinning class? Can't seem to muster the motivation to remove the clothes draped on the stationary bike in your bedroom to pedal a few miles?

The solution to staying in shape – and having fun – may be just a tail wag away. Check out the latest fitness trend: people-dog workout classes that focus on strength, flexibility and aerobics while unleashing plenty of fun for you and your dog.

By team

ing up with your best workout buddy – your dog – both of you can shed pounds, tone muscles and strengthen your connection.

"Regular exercise provides people and pets with physical and mental benefits," says Dr. Christine Zink, a veterinarian and professor of pathology at Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore. "Exercise releases endorphins – feel-good chemicals that provide a sense of well-being. Exercise helps maintain proper weight, improves coordination and balance, and stabilizes joints to prevent arthritis and acute injuries."

These special workout programs also reinforce good doggy manners. They bring out play with a purpose, offering dogs the chance to master basic commands such as sit, stay, down and come in positive settings. For the past two years, I've regularly attended Leash Your Fitness classes in San Diego with my two dogs: Chipper, a 60-pound gold

en retriever/husky mix, and Cleo, a 12-pound terrier-poodle mix.

Our "gym" is a huge fenced grassy field. Certified personal-fitness trainer Dawn Celapino credits Jack, her energetic cairn terrier, for inspiring her to create Leash Your Fitness.
"I hated having to leave Jack at home while I went to a gym to teach or work out," says Celapino. "He loves running, hiking and swimming with me. I discovered a lot of other dog people looking for new ways to work out with their dogs."

During each hourlong class, people sprint, skip and even hop while their leashed dogs match their strides. Together, they leap over hurdles or weave through agility poles. At any time, Celapino will call out for people to drop into squats and get their dogs to maintain a down stance. Or we'll heed the command to do pushups, and then get our canine pals to perform doggy pushups – a series of quick sit-downs.

Since enrolling, I've shed 20 pounds and canceled my gym membership. My veterinarian has deemed my 8-year-old dogs to be at ideal weights.Before you enroll, get a physical examination from your physician and book a head-to-tail checkup for your dog with your veterinarian. Go at your own pace and set your goals to gradually get better.

Exercise fortifies your body against a host of medical woes, including obesity, diabetes and heart disease. It can also save money on doctor and veterinary bills. Regular workouts can provide your dog with a perfect setting to unleash pent-up energy and reduce the amount of doggy destructiveness in the home that's often due to sheer boredom.Try one of these classes – or work out with your dog on your own – and together you will give a welcomed, new meaning to the expression "dog tired."

To learn more about people-pet workouts, check out Leash Your Fitness .

Heed these cautionary signs

Be careful not to overexert your dog during workouts. Stop the activity and allow your dog to rest if it displays any of these signs:

• Drooping tongue

• Rapid panting – an early sign of overheating

• Hesitation – taking a few extra seconds before retrieving a tossed ball

• Weight shifting – using different muscle groups to offset soreness

• Staggered walking

• Muscle tremors

• Limping – check footpads for cuts and bruises and legs for sprains or muscle pulls

Sunday Sweets

Sunday is full of SWEETS! Each week we will showcase the sweeter side of Cairns. If you have a sweet filled cairn and would like us to consider YOUR picture for an upcoming "Sunday Sweets" send it to us at cpcrnblog@gmail.com! (All photo submissions become the property of CPCRN and may be used for fundraising, promotion and/or outreach purposes.)

Walter

Simon (fka General Sherman)

Ella

Corky

Vincent

Sweating like a dog? probably Not!

Lowcountry Dog Magazine

by Leah Nicole Hawkins on Wednesday, June 22nd, 2011 at 11:55pm filed in Health and Wellness Local News

In early July of 2009, the dog world was rocked by a sudden tragedy. Seven show dogs, including Jersey, the 4th ranked Akita in the US, died as a result of heatstroke after being left in a van at one o’ clock in the morning. Their handler concluded that it was too hot in her garage to return the animals to their kennels, so she left six electric fans in the van along with opening a door and cracking a window. Believing these to be adequate precautions, she returned to the house to get some sleep. When she awoke and returned to the van around 6:30 am. the dogs were obviously distressed. Despite being rushed to a vet, only one of the eight dogs survived. It is believed that the temperature in the van could have risen as high as 120 degrees and that the dogs’ body temperatures may have topped out at over 108 degrees (a healthy dog maintains a body temperature around 101 degrees).

Sadly, incidents like this happen very often. Dogs are left in cars, crates, and yards all the time whilst their owners try to beat the summer heat. Unfortunately, while humans can shed excess heat out of the majority of their bodies, dogs can lose heat only through their footpads, their nose, and by panting. Heatstroke occurs when dogs lose the ability to regulate their body temperature and their normal temperature rises to 104 degrees and above. A temperature above 104 degrees requires immediate action to cool the animal down. A temperature reaching 106 degrees is an emergency and requires the attention of a veterinarian. Once a dog’s temperature reaches 106 degrees, the animal can suffer damage to their organs and cellular system that may not be reversible.

To guard your dog against heatstroke, be on the lookout for these symptoms:

Excessive panting

Thick saliva

Pale or dark red gums

Vomiting

Unresponsiveness to his/her name

Dizziness or disorientation

Collapse or an unwillingness to rise

If you suspect that your dog may be suffering from heatstroke, quickly move them out of direct sunlight and into a cooler area where air is circulating. Immediately give your dog water, but as with a human, do not let them drink too much too fast. Never use ice water or very cold water to cool your dog down, this can actually cause their blood vessels to constrict, which may increase their temperature rather than bringing it down. Cover them with cool towels or gently hose them down with cool water. Once your dog’s temperature reaches 103 degrees, stop cooling them. Over-cooling your animal may induce hypothermia, which opens the door to a new host of problems. Whether or not your dog begins to show signs of recovering, call your vet immediately! Heatstroke can damage your dog internally and he/she may require attention for such injuries.

As terrifying and potentially harmful as heatstroke is, it is easily preventable if you follow these safety steps.

1. Never leave any animal in a vehicle on a hot day regardless of whether the windows are open or not. The temperature in any vehicle can easily skyrocket in a matter of minutes.

2. Try to avoid vigorous exercise on hot days. Your dog does not know when to stop so try to find shady places for you and your pet if you must take them out.

3. Be sure that your dog has access to shady areas and plenty of water if it is a predominately outdoor dog. If at all possible, keep your dog inside on hot days. Periodically spraying your dog with cool water may also be beneficial.

It is important to note that these safety steps are especially important for brachycephalic breeds or short-nosed dogs. Breeds such as Pugs and Bulldogs are vulnerable to heatstroke as are dogs that are very young or old, overweight, dogs recovering from an injury, sickness, or surgery, double-coated breeds (such as Chow Chows), and dogs who were bred to handle cold climates such as Malamutes and Newfoundlands. So this summer beat the heat, but don’t forget that your furry friend requires the same comforts that you do.

Five Hot Tips for Summer Pet Care

Home Again June Newsletter


Summertime is fun time, but hot weather makes for some unique summer pet care challenges. Although wild animals are well adapted to the elements, companion animals can be just as susceptible to extreme temperatures as their owners are. What does that mean for your pet? When the temperatures get extreme, pet safety should be top of mind. Here are five ways to stay safe while enjoying summer activities with your pet:

1. Respect the heat. Humans aren’t the only animals that can find a hot summer day overwhelming. But unlike you, your pet has a limited ability to deal with the heat. Dogs release heat through their paw pads and by panting, while humans can sweat through all of the skin on their body. Dehydration can be a big problem for pets during the hot weather, too. According to the ASPCA, animals with flat faces—like Pugs and Persian cats—cannot pant as effectively, and are therefore more susceptible to heat stroke. You should also keep an eye on elderly or overweight pets or animals with heart and lung disease. In the summer, make certain that Fido and Fluffy always have access to plenty of fresh, cool water, and avoid letting them run around outside during the hottest parts of the day.

2. Keep bugs away—safely. Another summer pet safety issue is the presence of ticks and other summer insects. Not only can bugs carry diseases, but the ways people try to ward them off can also cause problems for your outdoor pet’s health. Fertilizers and pesticides may help keep a lawn looking great, but they can be very dangerous for your pet. In the areas where your pets play, it’s better to keep the grass cut short to reduce the presence of ticks and other insects. Also keep an eye out for fertilizer warnings on the edge of lawns when walking your dog. Talk to your vet about the best ways to protect your pet from fleas, ticks, and other insects that are more prevalent during the summer months.

3. Beware of anti-freeze. In the summertime, anti-freeze can leak out of cars when they overheat, leaving puddles on the ground that your dog can easily lap up and swallow. The sweet taste of anti-freeze is tempting to dogs and cats, but when this toxic substance is ingested, it’s potentially lethal. Pay attention to your neighbors’ cars and potential puddles on your street, and make sure your pets stay clear of it.

4. Find out if your pet needs sunscreen. Some pets, particularly those with short fine hair and pink skin, can also be susceptible to sunburn. Talk to your veterinarian about which types of sunscreen are safest on your pet’s skin, and follow up by routinely applying sunscreen as part of your summer routine. Do not use sunscreen or insect repellents that are not designed specifically for use on animals. The ASPCA says ingesting certain sunscreens can cause drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, excessive thirst and lethargy in pets.

5. Practice water safety. As with other aspects of summer pet care, water safety is all about thinking ahead. Although it's fun to bring your pet to the beach or pool to stay cool together, always keep a close eye on your pet when they’re in or near the water. Even a strong swimmer could have trouble getting out of a pool, or get trapped by ropes and other obstacles. For more risky summer adventures with your dog, like boating, look into a doggie life preserver. It could be an excellent investment for his safety.

Summer pet safety isn’t hard, it just requires some thought and attention. Watch over your pet the way you would a small child—protect them from too much heat, sun, and other summer dangers—and everything should be just fine

For all who support CP--Here's ANOTHER reason why

Written by CP's VP Intakes



Working rescue can be very rewarding, filling your heart with joy and pride. Working rescue can also be agonizing, filling your heart with sorrow and pain.

As with anything, there are two sides to the story, two different trains of thought. We have seen well intentioned legislation do more harm than good for the dogs. Now we once more find that people who were trying to help the dogs may have actually hurt them.

CP has been asked why we attend auctions as many rescues do not, and many rescuers lobbied to stop auctions. We believe if there is a Cairn that needs help, regardless of where it comes from, it deserves a chance at freedom and a happily ever after. This is what the United States of America stands for, what this country was built on--welcoming all people and giving them a chance for freedom and equality.

That opportunity was recently taken away for many dogs when a popular auction was shutdown. Yes, some of the dogs that go to auction didn't make it to rescues, BUT many did! Some of you have them in your family right now. Has anyone thought about what is to become of those dogs that did not make it to freedom? Where do the older, retired breeders now go? Or how about the puppy that wasn't quite healthy enough or chosen to become part of someone's family? What happens to them now?

This past Saturday, a little 7 month old male Cairn made his way into the loving arms of Col. Potter. We had been working on getting him for over a month. As a puppy, he had some skin irritation that was referred to as "hot spots" and never got a chance to find his own family. He's no longer a puppy, so no longer of value or sellable as a family pet. The dogs that are no longer needed or wanted are now being collected and sold to a LAB FOR RESEARCH. Yes, you heard me right, but let me say it once again -- THE OLDER, RETIRED BREEDER WHO CAN NO LONGER PRODUCE PUPPIES AND PUPPIES THAT WERE NOT ABLE TO BE SOLD ARE NOW BEING COLLECTED ENMASS AND SOLD AS LAB RESEARCH ANIMALS ...

I don't know about you, but when I learned this, I got chills, my skin started crawling, I felt sick to my stomack and my heart sank. What an absolutely awful way for these dogs to end their lives ...

Smoochie Poochie did not befall that fate thanks to CP! His name was donated by Tricia M. in memory of CP's very special Slater. I think Slater wanted to make sure this little boy had a chance to live a long, healthy life that he didn't.

Smoochie Poochie and all the others owe their lives to the generosity of those that support Col. Potter. We do what others can't, but we can't do it without you and your support. Please, when you look at this sweet little face, think about what could have happened to him, where he could be right now if it weren't for Col. Potter. Help us to help not only Smoochie Poochie but all the others out there that need us. Your donations and support truly mean the difference between life ... and death.

Friday's Funnies

Marmaduke


by Brad Anderson

CP SAYS TIME FOR THE WILDFLOWER BUNCH TO BLOSSOM AND BLOOM

Written by CP's VP of Intakes

We have officially said good-bye to spring and hello to summer. Even in the farthest northern states, the snow and cold has been replaced with mild temperatures and flowers are starting to bloom. Certainly a welcome sight to see the beauty of spring and summer emerge. Three little Cairns will now be following that same path, transitioning from the dreary bitterness of their former lives to bask in the beauty and warmth that is Col. Potter while they learn to blossom and bloom in freedom.

Our Wildflower Bunch was a theme and names chosen by Geri P. who won a CP contest to name a group of furkids. Congratulations to Geri on winning and thanks for the wonderful names! And so I present the Wildflower Bunch:

Lupin: Male, red wheaten, born 6/15/08

Goldenrod: Female, wheaten, born 7/3/08

Bellflower: Female, cream, born 6/18/06

You will note all these furkids received a wonderful gift for their birthdays this year - FREEDOM! My THANKS to volunteer Monika for once again making the journey to help more Cairns into the CP family.

Please help me Welcome the Wildflower Bunch - we can't wait to enjoy watching your beauty unfold before us!!

Taming Tip from Taming the Wild Side Dog Training

Contributed by Terri Elkins, Owner / Trainer -

Taming the Wild Side Dog Training

Note from from CP Blogger: We would like to thank Terri Elkins for allowing us to post her weekly taming tips on our blog. Her training facility is located in Fort Worth, Texas.

Each week we'll share a Taming Tip for you, your family and friends to do with your dog(s)! These tips will help teach your dog real world manners in a fun way. Leave us a comment and tell us how it went!

Taming Tip #15:

What behavior does your dog do that really bothers you? Pick a behavior that you would like for him to do and take a few minutes each morning and evening to teach a preferred behavior. For example, if your dog is jumping up, right before he jumps ask him to sit and then click and treat the sit. When your dog begins to offer the desired behavior instead of the unwanted behavior remember to reinforce with a treat!

Please follow this link to visit their blog!

Dying Man's Final Wish to be Reunited With Dog comes true

KCRG TV NEWS

by Jill Kasparie, Reporter


CEDAR RAPIDS, Iowa – A community came together to grant a homeless man his last wish. That dying wish was to see his dog one more time. It was a simple request, but one that meant the world to him in his final days.

People involved with the man’s last wish describe it as something they’ll never forget. Now that he’s gone, they’ll always cherish the memories of the man and his best friend.

“She is full of energy and just brings so much love and energy into the home,” said the dog’s new owner, Kate Ungs. Meet Yurtie, also known as Yurt. She is getting used to her new home, adopted by Kate and Eric Ungs of Marion. “When we first saw her online in the bio it said, has a very compelling story, but you know, at the time those were just words,” said Eric Ungs.

Yurt used to live with a homeless Cedar Rapids man, 57-year-old Kevin McClain, in his car. But a month ago he became ill with lung cancer.

Paramedics rushed him to Mercy Medical Center and later to Hospice House. Yurt went to the animal shelter.

“In the transition of moving him over from our ambulance cot to the bed, he told me, 'I have a dog,'” said Area Ambulance Service Paramedic Specialist Jan Erceg.

Yurt's shelter was the same shelter where Kevin’s paramedic, Erceg, also volunteered.

“He said her name is Yurt and at that moment, that was my Aha! moment,” Erceg said.

From the day Yurt and Kevin were separated, he asked to see her.

It was his dying wish.

The Hospice Home, Ambulance Service and shelter teamed up to make it happen.

“And the moment he opened those eyes and saw that dog there was instant recognition and with Yurtie, she licked his arms, she licked his face,” Erceg said.

“It was a couple days later that Kevin did pass away here at the Hospice House. So it just really seemed to work so perfect,” said Dennis & Donna Oldorf Hospice House Patient Care Coordinator Brandi Garrett.

In the end, this companion was there for his owner, even in death. That’s a true companion that the Ungs know they’re now lucky to have.

“She’s our family and we’re her family, just a tight knit group,” Eric Ungs said.

Note from CP Blogger: It wonderful for everyone when it's possible for dogs to say goodbye to their owners and we wanted to share this story with those who hadn't seen it.

Wacky Wednesday!

Wednesday is the day to be WACKY! Each week we will showcase a terrierific cairn picture with an appropriate caption. If you have a terrierific cairn and would like us to consider YOUR picture and caption for an upcoming "Wacky Wednesday" send it to us at cpcrnblog@gmail.com! (All photo submissions become the property of CPCRN and may be used for fundraising, promotion and/or outreach purposes.)

A big shout out to Gem for being our Wacky Wednesday model this week!

The Considerate Canine Chase Drive Training Tip

Lowcountry Dog Magazine


The Problem:

I need help with my dog who likes chasing bicycles and runners.

The Solution:

Having a dog who chases fast moving objects can be quite frightening, dangerous and embarrassing, but you certainly are not alone. Motion can trigger the prey/chase drive in many breeds. But it does not have to be a deal breaker.

Good management is vital while you work to help your dog develop a different pattern of behavior. Don’t allow your dog off leash where he is likely to be confronted with fast moving objects. When you see a bike approaching step behind a car, tree or put your body between your dog and the bike. Teach your dog a great sit/stay, come when called and watch me.

Please be sure that you practice these skills in a place with few distractions rather than expecting him to comply with your request in the presence of a bike or runner. As he learns to respond to your cues, take it on the road, practicing in more difficult places.

Using classical conditioning to change the way your dog responds to these objects can be most helpful. By pairing something that your dog loves ( cheese, chicken, hotdogs, etc.) with the approach of a bike, the bike begins to act as a predictor of good things to come.

It is helpful to have another person available while working with your dog.

Start with your dog near a bike that is stationary, feeding him treats for being close to the bike while not reacting.

Begin to move the bike slowly, just a few inches at the time while you feed your dog for being calm.

When he can handle this small amount of movement, begin to move the bike a little faster ( proceed in very small increments) while giving him treats. If he reacts to the movement, back up to the last point he was successful.

Gradually begin to increase the speed of the bike, treating the entire time.

The next step, have someone on the bike, then riding it slowly, adding speed as you proceed.

Be sure that you do not push your dog too fast, too far. If he begins to get worried or react, give him a break, possibly waiting until the next day. Your dog gets to decide what is comfortable for him. It takes time and patience to help a dog who is reactive to anything, the longer he has practiced this behavior the longer it may take to change it.

I hope that your walks will become more pleasant as you work together to change his reactions.

Happy Training!

If you have a question for Cindy Carter of Mindful Manners Dog Training, email your question to leah@lowcountrydog.com using the subject line: The Considerate Canine.

Cindy Carter has been training dogs in the Charleston area for the past 4 years, the last year as owner of Mindful Manners Dog Training. Cindy is a Certified Pet Dog Trainer, CGC evaluator for the AKC, and member of the Association of Pet Dog Trainers. She has written articles for local publications and been featured in several publications focusing on local business owners.

As the owner of two dogs with “issues” she is uniquely qualified to help owners develop and implement management and training plans. She brings commitment and empathy to owners struggling to help their dogs have better lives.

For more information about our training programs visit us at www.mindfulmanners.net

Eraser aint sayin

that Cindy is a bad cook but we looked into the dish washer today and we saw some of the chile beans had sprouted we thought they were kind of hard and crunchy

Joplin ASPCA event next weekend

ASPCA National News

Joplin Adoption Event has been set for Next Weekend

Since a tornado hit Joplin, Missouri, in late May, the ASPCA has helped rescue more than 1,000 animals who were affected by the disaster, and we’ve helped hundreds more find their way into their families’ arms again. Still, the devastation has left nearly 600 animals homeless, and they need your help.
As Joplin begins to pick up the pieces and rebuild, the ASPCA is committed to making sure every animal finds a great forever home. So we're joining the Joplin Humane Societyto host a very special adoption event on June 25 and 26.

This is your chance to make a difference for the Joplin community and its families and animals and to come home with a grateful new family member.

The dogs and cats vary widely in size, age, breed and personality ranging from chatty Siamese cats to darling Shih Tzus to tiny calico kittens to lovable Labs. But they do have one thing in common: They're sweethearts who are ready to be someone's new best friend.

Each dog has also undergone a SAFER evaluation by ASPCA Animal Behavior Center Vice President Dr. Pamela Reid and her team. The pups in our emergency shelter, the team reports, showed off myriad wonderful qualities during testing.

These animals have been through a lot, and they certainly deserve a new start, says ASPCA animal behaviorist Kristen Collins.The dogs evaluations revealed their different personalities and it's clear to me that there will be a perfect companion for just about anyone!

Here's what you need to know to attend the event:

What: Joplin adoption event, featuring nearly 600 cats, kittens, dogs and puppies who need new homes.
When: Saturday, June 25, and Sunday, June 26, from 10:00 A.M. to 8:00 P.M. on both days.
Where: Joplin Humane Society 140 E. Emperor Lane, Joplin, Missouri 64801
ASPCA | June 17, 2011