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Table of Contents:


February 2009 News:


 


This year when making your New Year’s Resolutions,
don’t forget the Humane Society of McDonough County!

The HSMC exists because of it's membership, volunteers, and local business sponsors who contribute so generously through donations and through a commitment of time.  Thank you to everyone who supported the HSMC in 2008 and to everyone who has already renewed their 2009 membership. Your support is indispensible.  

Yet, dare I say, the HSMC needs more.  To accomplish the day to day activities, the HSMC is in need of members willing to give of their energy, their expertise, and a further commitment of time.  So I’m asking you to please consider becoming an HSMC board member.

Thank you,
Kate Shattuck
HSMC President
 
If you are interested in becoming more actively involved in the Humane Society of McDonough County, please attend a board meeting.
The next board meeting is Monday, February 9, 5:30 pm @ Spoon River College in Macomb.


 

Cat Vaccines!

 

The Humane Society of McDonough County has set up a flow-through account for anyone wishing to donate money specifically for the purchase of vaccines for the cats at the McDonough County Animal Shelter.

Thank you to everyone who has already donated.
Your efforts have saved many lives.

If you wish to donate to this cause:

Please make checks payable to: Humane Society of McDonough County
Specify in the memo section: 'CAT VACCINES'
Mail to: PO Box 7, Macomb, IL 61455

The HSMC also has a separate fund account set-up for the spay/neuter program.  If you are interested in donating specifically to this program, follow the above instructions but specify in the memo section of your check: ‘SPAY/NEUTER’

 
 

Spay Day, Tuesday, February 24

Spay Day was started to promote awareness of the pet overpopulation and the best way to stop it is to spay and neuter our pets.
 
 

Reminder to Dog Owners


If you are a dog owner, Illinois State Law requires you to have your dog vaccinated against rabies and to register your dog annually with the county in which you reside. The 2009 Dog Registration Tags are now available in the McDonough County Treasurer's Office from 8:00 am to 4:00 pm. A one-year registration for a spayed or neutered dog is $9.00; an unspayed or unneutered dog is $19.00. After February 15, the fee goes up to $16.00 and $26.00 respectively.

This year's rabies tags are a light gold color. Don't forget to purchase a new HSMC dog name/address tag to go along with your dog's new rabies tag.  A readable dog tag is the easiest and fastest way for your dog to find his way home if he should happen to get lost.  All it requires is someone who might find your dog to pick up the phone and dial. Currently, the HSMC tag machine is located at All Pets Veterinary (722 W. Jackson St, Macomb) through April 30th.

 

 
 


The 133rd Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show
Monday and Tuesday, February  9-10, 2009

Last year a Beagle named Uno won the Westminster's top prize, Best in Show.  Since then, Uno has spent his time proving that the Beagle breed is best in everything.  Uno is a well loved visitor at Ronald McDonald Houses around the country, he’s visited the soldier’s at Walter Reed Army Hospital, he’s thrown out the first pitch at a Cardinal’s baseball game, he gets his own seat on Midwest Airlines, he’s attended benefits to raise money for charities, he’s friends with Cesar Millan, participated in the Macy’s Day Parade, and politicians want their pictures taken with Uno as much as kissing babies!  He’s even had his picture taken with President Bush, and no, he did not bite the photographer.  Proving that the Beagle Uno is better behaved than the Scottie Barney.  And last but not least, Uno is a therapy dog.  This little beagle has combined a decade of work in a single year, the Year of the Beagle! 
Who will be this year’s Westminster Best in Show?
For more information on the Westminster, go to:
http://www.westminsterkennelclub.org

Just remember that a Beagle may be a dog, but not every dog is a Beagle. Whatever breed wins Best in Show, that breed may not be the right breed for you and your lifestyle.  According to National Geographic Explorer, with 400 breeds and counting, the dog is more varied in size and behavior than any other species.  If you have a chance to watch the Science of Dogs on National Geographic Channel, it’s a fascinating look at man’s manipulation of the dogs’ appearance and talents, and how nature and man have partnered to create new and specialized breeds.

 

 


 

Dr. Karen Blakely to give a one hour presentation during this year’s Gardener’s Day

Veterinarian and Master Gardener, Dr. Karen Blakely will give a one hour presentation during the first session of this year’s McDonough County’s Gardener’s Day.  She will discuss some of the common poisonous plants in small and large animals.  In addition, she will share tips on avoidance, preliminary treatment/first aid for ingestion and resources for poisoning events. 

Gardener’s Day is an all day event scheduled for Saturday, March 21, starting at 9:00 am through 3:00 pm.  The cost is $35, which includes lunch.  For more information, call 309-837-3939 or go to the University of Illinois Extension website:
www.extension.uiuc.edu/mcdonough

 
 

Trivia


Just a little footnote: Apple’s new iPhoto program, which has face recognition, can be trained to recognize different cat faces but apparently not dog faces.  Just another example of how cats rule, dogs drool! 
For more info, go to:  http://i.gizmodo.com/5140703/iphotos-facial-recognition-feature-works-on-cats

 
 
 

 


December News 2008:

 

There is no Regular Meeting in December,
But it's not too late to attend the

Annual December Dinner Meeting
set for
Tuesday, December 2, 2008
at
Il Spazio Restaurant
(2 West Side Square, Macomb)

 

 

6:00 pm Social Time
6:30 pm Vote & Induction of 2009 Board
6:45 pm Dinner

Dinner will be "Dutch Treat" and you will be able to order off an open menu.

 

Please email or phone (309-776-3087) Kathy Chambers
by Tuesday morning, December 2
with your name and the number of guests attending.

 

 
Wishing you very Happy Holidays
and a Wonderful New Year!
 

 


November News 2008:


 

Annual December Dinner Meeting
set for
Tuesday, December 2, 2008
at
Il Spazio Restaurant in Macomb

 

 

6:00 pm Social Time
6:30 pm Vote & Induction of 2009 Board
6:45 pm Dinner

Dinner will be "Dutch Treat" and you will be able to order off an open menu.

 

RSVP by November 21.
Look in your November "Waggin' Tales" Newsletter for your reservation form
or visit the HSMC website.

 

 
 

An Important Election for Animal Rights!

"Voters in California approved an historic ballot measure to halt the inhumane confinement of animals on factory farms—by an overwhelming margin.
Wayne Pacelle, President and CEO of The Humane Society of the United States, said, "California voters have taken a stand for decency and compassion and said that the systemic mistreatment of animals on factory farms cannot continue. All animals deserve humane treatment, including animals raised for food."
Proposition 2 ends the practice of confining certain animals raised for food in crates and cages so small the animals can barely move. Prop 2 requires that factory farms provide enough space for animals to stand up, turn around and extend their limbs. It applies to breeding pigs, egg laying hens and veal calves.
Prop 2 goes into effect in January of 2015, giving factory farms six years to shift to different housing systems. 
The Yes! on Prop 2 campaign received donations from 25,000 individual contributors across the country. Thousands of volunteers worked to collect signatures, distribute campaign literature, and rallied to get out the vote for Prop 2.
Prop 2 attracted support from a broad coalition of organizations and leaders, including the California Veterinary Medical Association, United Farm Workers, State Humane Association of California, the Center for Food Safety, and the Consumer Federation of America, to name a few.
The opponents of Proposition 2, agribusiness companies from throughout the nation, spent $9 million to try to defeat the ballot initiative."

Also, in Massachusetts:
"Bay State voters passed Question 3 today, which will phase out the inhumane practice of greyhound racing by 2010. The measure is now winning 57 – 43 percent. Since 2002, there have been 841 reported injuries at the two Massachusetts tracks, and 80 percent of those injuries were broken legs.
Grey2K USA, the MSPCA, and The Humane Society of the United States were the primary sponsors of Question 3, and The HSUS was the largest financial backer of the ballot measure.
"This is a fantastic win for dogs in Massachusetts and it marks the demise of an industry that exploits dogs for entertainment and profit," said HSUS President and CEO Wayne Pacelle. "We are so grateful to the people of Massachusetts for establishing this humane policy." 
At these tracks, greyhounds endure lives of terrible confinement, kept in small cages barely large enough to stand up or turn around for 20 or more hours per day. In recent years, the total amount gambled at the only two greyhound race tracks in Massachusetts declined by 65 percent and 37 percent.
Christine Dorchak, president and general counsel of Grey2K USA and author of the ballot question, said "tonight compassion overcame cruelty. Massachusetts voters stood up for dogs and sent a clear message we in Massachusetts will no longer tolerate an industry that causes thousands of dogs to suffer terrible confinement at racetracks."
This humane law was backed by dozens of community leaders, including The HSUS, Massachusetts Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, GREY2K USA, the Massachusetts Council of Churches, every major animal shelter in Massachusetts, dozens of lawmakers and nearly 70 Massachusetts veterinarians.
"Massachusetts voters said dogs matter. We dedicate this victory to those dogs who have died on Massachusetts tracks and also to those who will not have to in the future," said Carter Luke, president of the Massachusetts SPCA."

 
 
 

 

October News 2008:


 

Bark in the Park!

 

Bark in the Park is coming: Saturday, October 11, 2008!
Are your dogs ready?

Click here to go to the HSMC Bark in the Park page.

 
 

October is Adopt-a-Shelter Dog Month!

According to the American Humane website:

"Having a dog rocks. Experts say dogs promote exercise, help lower blood pressure, prevent heart disease, and fight depression and loneliness. Plus, dogs often can serve as “social aids,” helping people get to know others, sparking conversations, and encouraging increased social contact and greater bonds between people."

 

ASPCA's Top 10 Reasons to Adopt an Older Dog

1. What You See Is What You Get
Older dogs are open books—from the start, you’ll know important things like their full-grown size, personality and grooming requirements. All this information makes it easier to pick the right dog and forge that instant love connection that will last a lifetime. If you’re not so into surprises, an older dog is for you!

2. Easy to Train
Think you can’t teach an old dog new tricks? Hogwash! Older dogs are great at focusing on you—and on the task at hand—because they’re calmer than youngsters. Plus, all those years of experience reading humans can help them quickly figure out how to do what you’re asking.

3. Seniors are Super-Loving
Visit the ASPCA website and read the stories about senior dogs. Beautiful, heartfelt descriptions of the love older dogs give. It's an instant bond that cannot be topped!

4. They’re Not a 24-7 Job
Grownup dogs don’t require the constant monitoring puppies do, leaving you with more freedom to do your own thing. If you have young children, or just value your “me time,” this is definitely a bonus.

5. They Settle in Quickly
Older dogs have been around the block and already learned what it takes to get along with others and become part of a pack. They’ll be part of the family in no time!

6. Fewer Messes
Your floors, shoes and furniture will thank you for adopting a senior pooch! Older dogs are likely to already be housetrained—and even if they’re not, they have the physical and mental abilities to pick it up really fast (unlike puppies). With their teething years far behind them, seniors also are much less likely to be destructive chewers.

7. You Won’t Bite Off More Than You Can Chew
There are those who yearn for a doggie friend of their own, but hold back because they worry what might happen in their lives in the years to come. And they are wise to do so—a puppy or young dog can be anywhere from an eight- to 20-year responsibility, which is not appropriate for the very elderly or those with certain long-term future plans. Providing a loving home for a dog in her golden years is not a less serious commitment, but it can be a shorter one.

8. They Enjoy Easy Livin’
Couch potato, know thyself! Please consider a canine retiree rather than a high-energy young dog who will run you ragged. Not that older dogs don’t require any exercise—they do—but they’re not going to need, or want, to run a marathon every day.

9. Save a Life, Be a Hero
Older dogs are often the last to be adopted and the first to be euthanized at shelters. Saving an animal’s life offers an unparalleled emotional return on your investment, and you’ll feel the rewards every day you spend together. There’s nothing like that twinkling in an older dog’s eyes when he finally gets adopted and realizes that after a lifetime of searching, he’s home.

10. They’re CUTE!
Need we say more? For proof, check out our new photo feature In Praise of Older Dogs!

 
 

Calculate the Age of Your Dog!

How young is your dog? Go to onlineconversion.com and calculate the age of your dog.

The formula is: 10.5 dog years per human year for the first 2 years, then 4 dog years per human year for each year after.

Note: It is a common belief that 1 human year is equal to 7 dog years. That is not very accurate, since dogs reach adulthood within the first couple of years. The formula used above is from a canine expert and is a bit more accurate. (as accurate as one can judge these things)

 

On October 11th, Pedigree is declaring the first Dogs Rule® Day.

 

If anyone deserves their own holiday, it's dogs. So let's celebrate our best friends and recognize their contribution to the quality of life on earth. All we have to do is give our own dogs a little extra love and do something special to make the world a better place for dogs. Go to Pedigree.com for more information and to sign up for a PEDIGREE® newsletter.
Dogs Rule
Learn more: Adopt a Dog
Volunteer Program
Article Library
Puppy Program

 

 

 

September News 2008:


 

Bark in the Park!

 

Bark in the Park is coming: Saturday, October 11, 2008!
Start getting your costumes, tricks, and dogs ready!

Click here to go to the HSMC Bark in the Park page.

 
 

The McDonough County Animal Shelter has a Wish List!

 

If you see an item on this list that you can help out with,
please email Stacy or call 309-837-2989.

 
  • Paint the shelter, inside and out
  • Take paint off the “stall” walls
  • Paint the floor
  • New corner support/braces (the ones in the pens are rusted all the way through)
  • Gutters cleaned out regularly
  • Sink in garage
  • Weight Scale in garage to weigh dogs/cats
  • Clippers for clipping matted dogs
  • Dorm room size refrigerator for in office
  • Better shelves in garage for storage
  • A locking storage area for vaccines and syringes and needles
  • Fix the parking lot
  • Hold spay/neuter clinic 1-2 times a year
  • New outside pen so customers can get to know the dogs they may adopt
  • New door on old shed so critters can’t get in there!
  • Bathing station big enough for the bigger dogs we get in the majority of the time
  •  A new computer that is not on dial up!
  • 4 new shelf sets: 1 in office, 3 in kennel area
  • New stainless steel bowls for the dogs
  • Dispose of old washer
  • Cat play area
  • Air/heat source in garage for when the vet comes
  • New first aid station and eye/face wash station
  • Drainage on outside runs for easier cleaning
  • Security cameras fixed
  • New office desks
  • New office chairs for desk and guests
  • New filing cabinets
  • Ventilation in cat room

 
 

What's Happened to Michael Vick's Dogs!

Watch National Geographic Channel
Friday, September 5
9 pm ET (8 pm CT)

Read about 4 of the dogs living at Best Friends Animal Sanctuary, a.k.a. Dogtown,
from the trainers working with them:

Cherry

Dog’s name: Cherry
Trainer’s name: Michelle Besmehn
Initial diagnosis: Shy and undersocialized, Cherry flattens to the ground when on a leash and doesn’t want to walk.
Training program: My plan for Cherry was to first get to know him and figure out what causes him stress, what makes him happy and what interests him, and then use those things to help him feel more comfortable and calm. When Cherry first arrived and we clipped a leash to him, he would completely flatten his whole body to the ground and stay motionless.  So one of the first things I did was to carry him outside for his walk and stand there with him, waiting for him to eventually start moving around a little bit on his own.  Even if he sneaked over to a place that he thought was a little safer, maybe near a wall or a fence line, that was an accomplishment because it was his own agenda.  He was still on a leash, but he realized it wasn’t so bad.  And it progressed from there!
Next, we wanted to introduce him to new experiences and help him to realize that not only will he be able to survive new experiences but he may actually be able to enjoy them.  Even touching him made him nervous, but if you started massaging him, he would start to relax. Cherry also seemed very interested in other dogs, so we carefully introduced him to them and found him a friend in Mel to play with, which has really brightened up his outlook on life.
Status: Cherry is becoming a much braver, more confident dog.  He interacts playfully with all of his caregivers and actively seeks our attention.

 

  

Denzel

Dog’s name: Denzel
Trainer’s name: John Garcia
Initial diagnosis: One of the things I immediately noticed about Denzel was his energy level.  I know from experience that dogs with energy need plenty of exercise, so we would need to include exercise as part of the training program for Denzel.  He would also need a lot of mental and physical stimulation, and we would also have to establish boundaries early on.
Training program: Our training plans for Denzel were put on the shelf for a while because when he arrived at Best Friends, our vets discovered that he had a pretty severe case of anemia and an underlying disease — a tickborne parasite sometimes found in fighting dogs.  It took months to get him on track.  After that, it was on to basic obedience training and getting Denzel ready to pass our Canine Good Citizen test.
Status: Healthy, happy and energetic.  Learning new things every day and getting better and better at following basic commands.

 

 

Georgia

Dog’s name: Georgia
Trainer’s name: John Garcia
Initial diagnosis: When I met Georgia, she was very aloof with people, demonstrated food guarding issues and was aggressive to other dogs.
Training program: The first task was to show Georgia that she was loved — that we wouldn't hurt her, and that in fact we would take care of her and bring good things to her life.  That didn't take too long! After that, we focused on food guarding.  I started by feeding her by hand so that she had nothing to guard and rewarding her with a bigger treat when I wanted to take another food item away.  She has done a great job. Then we moved to basic commands like sit, stay and come.  I've chosen not to address her aggression against other dogs yet.  I don't blame her for this strong reaction to other dogs after what she's been through.  For now, if she doesn't want to be with dogs, that's fine; we'll let her be with people — which is what she loves.
Status: Georgia is doing great.  She is enjoying time with me and with her caregivers and hasn't shown any food guarding issues in a long time.  Plus she's mastering the basic commands.  She loves her walks, her toys and the people in her life.

 

  

Meryl

Dog’s name: Meryl
Trainer’s name: Ann Allums
Initial diagnosis: Fearful of strangers, Meryl may lash out when meeting a new person if not properly introduced.
Training program: First and most important, Meryl is only introduced to new people through people she already trusts so that she does not lash out.  Trainer John Garcia and I have worked rigorously on introducing Meryl to other trainers, so now a number of us have gained her trust. We show her that the people who take care of her won't hurt her. Additionally, I always seek ways to give Meryl a full and rich life with adoptive owners one day, which begins with learning basic commands such as sit, stay and come, and then moving up to agility training.
Status: Meryl has met new people and has a variety of caregivers who can walk her, play with her and snuggle with her. We practice agility regularly and Meryl loves it. When Meryl sees me coming she gets really excited — good things are going to happen! I also discovered that Meryl loves other dogs and now she has regular play dates with a variety of doggie friends!

 

 


 

August News 2008:


 

Pet Wash!

 

The 26th Annual Pet Wash was a success with 125 dogs getting washed!

Click here to view pictures on the HSMC Pet Wash page.

 

Photographer Needed!

 

The Humane Society of McDonough County is currently looking for a volunteer to take pictures of the adoptable animals at the shelter, the pictures are then placed on the Shelter Poster and on the shelter website. Photographer duties include, on an every other month basis: 1) each week take pictures of new, adoptable pets at the shelter, 2) get animal's information including name, sex, age, breed, and anything else such as - housebroke, vet records, current on shots, HW neg/pos, etc, 3) email pictures by Tuesday evening.

If you are interested, please email Megan Cramblet!

 

12-Year-Old Feeds Shelter Animals Through Website

July 25, 2008

pict2
Mimi Ausland, 12, collects food for shelter animals through two donation  websites, Freekibble.com and
Freekibblekat.com

By Andrew Sovonick

Pet overpopulation in shelters is one of the biggest problems facing animals today, with nearly 6-8 million dogs and cats entering shelters each year. Twelve-year old Mimi Ausland of Bend, Ore., wants to make sure that none of them go hungry while waiting for a new, loving home.

Free Kibble

Mimi started the website Freekibble.com in April 2008 with the intent of collecting food for the dogs at the Humane Society of Central Oregon (HSCO). More than 170,000 pieces of kibble were collected in the first month, increasing to 180,000 pieces in May. This increase inspired Mimi to start another campaign, Freekibblekat.com, which collects food for cats in shelters.

She enlisted the help of Bend Pet Express, a local pet store that helped supply her with dog food, and other local institutions chipped in as well. Eventually, Zootoo.com offered its services as a sponsor, and is currently her biggest sponsor.

As Mimi's efforts gained the attention of the media, the totals increased even more. She appeared on "NBC's Nightly News with Brian Williams" and the "Today Show," after which the kibble totals skyrocketed, increasing from just over 25,000 pieces to nearly 430,000 pieces in one day. On July 12, two days after her appearance on national television, the daily food donation total reached a record of 803,940 pieces of kibble.

Inspired By Rice

Mimi got the free kibble idea from an initiative with a similar basis, the Freerice.com campaign, in which rice is donated through the UN World Food program to help end hunger by answering a series of vocabulary questions. Her mother, Brooke, designed the websites, and Mimi and her father, Kelly, came up with the colorful themes.

The trivia questions for Freekibble.com and Freekibblekat.com come from Mimi and her friends, whom Mimi says have become very involved and have a lot of fun thinking of questions for the site.

'Blown Away'

No one is more surprised by the response and growth of Freekibble.com than Mimi.

"I had no clue it would get this big. My original goal was to collect food for the HSCO," she said.

Her parents are also stunned by the site's reception. "We were blown away by the response," said Kelly. "We're so proud of her and so thrilled to watch her growth; this is such a great vehicle for her."

Kelly adds, "We're not surprised she could pull it off…youth does not have a fear of failing."

pict3

A Friend of Animals

When she grows up, Mimi wants to continue working with animals, specifically by running her own animal shelter. Mimi is very familiar with how shelters work, having volunteered at the Humane Society of Central Oregon for four years. She also has donated birthday gifts to the shelter. She has even rescued animals herself, including a bird with a broken wing and a stranded trout.

Mimi is a caregiver to two pets, a golden retriever named Aspen, and a Maine Coon cat named Dorothy (also known as Dot). She also leases a pinto gelding named Fritz, with whom she enjoys her favorite hobby, horseback riding.

Expanding the Effort

She credits the HSCO as a primary reason for why she started Freekibble.com.

"I volunteered at the Humane Society of Central Oregon, but I wanted to do something bigger to help the animals," she said.

With the now large and steady inflow of kibble, Mimi decided to expand the campaign to other shelters as well, while still providing food to the HSCO. The next shelter on the agenda is Furrytale Farms. Mimi aims to deliver food to many more shelters in need of help to ensure that no animal will go hungry.

"I want to try to go to all of them and feed the animals," said Mimi.

In recognition of Mimi's work for animals, The HSUS is making a donation to the animal shelter of her choice. Mimi has chosen the Humane Society of Central Oregon.

 
 

Pets and Domestic Violence

National Coalition Against Domestic Violence or NCADV

A complete pdf version of this can be downloaded at our website.

Why it Matters
Pets are not immune to domestic violence. Batterers frequentlythreaten,injure,maim,or kill their partners‘or children‘s pets in conjunction withdomestic abuse. Because victims understand the extent of the harm that their abusers will likelyinflict upon their pets,manyhesitate to leave violent relationships out of concern for the safety of their pets. W hen batterers abused victims,victims see the animal crueltyas part of a long historyof violence aimed at them and their families.1 Recognizing this,an increasing number of shelters have added kennels or instituted safe haven“animal foster care programs in an effort to protect victims,their children,and their pets.
* 71% of pet owners entering domestic violence shelters report that their batterer had threatened, injured,or killed familypets.
* One studyfound that 87% of batterer-perpetrated incidents of pet abuse are committed in the presence of their partners for the purpose of revenge or control.
* Studies show that up to 76% of battererperpetrated
pet abuse incidents occur in the presence of children.
* 13% of intentional animal abuse cases involve domestic violence.
* W omen in domestic violence shelters are 11 times more likelyto report animal abuse bytheir partner than women not experiencing violence.
* 85% of domestic violence shelters report that they commonly encounter women who speak about pet abuse incidents.
* 52% of victims in shelters left their pets with their batterers.
* Criminals and troubled youth have high rates of animal crueltyduring their childhood,perpetrators often were victims of child abuse themselves.
* Investigation of animal abuse is often the first point of social services intervention for a family experiencing domestic violence.
* Similar to domestic abuse,abusers demonstrate power and control over the familybythreatening, harming,or killing animals.
* Domestic violence victims whose batterers abuse their pets report more than twice as many incidents of child abuse as compared to domestic violence victims whose batterers have not abused their pets.
* Batterers threaten,harm,or kill their children‘s pets in order to coerce them into sexual abuse or to force them to remain silent about abuse.
* Abusers harm pets to punish the victim for leaving, or in attempts to coerce her/him to return.
* Abusers may harm pets to retaliate for acts of self-determination or independence.
* Animal abusers are more likely to be domestic violence abusers,to have been arrested for other violent crimes and drug-related offenses, and engage in other delinquent behavior.
* Many abusers have a history of animal abuse that precedes domestic violence toward their partner.
* Animals may sometimes be used as weapons against domestic violence victims.


THE ROLE OF PETS
* Familypets are commonlyviewed as familymembers and companions.
* 55% of domestic violence victims and their children report that their pets are very important sources of emotional support,thus violence toward pets may be especially devastating and viewed as another form of familyviolence.
* A large majorityof women residing in domestic violence shelters report being emotionallyclose to their pets and experience distress when their animals are abused.
* Studies show that a vast majority of children who witness pet abuse become distressed and emotionally distraught.
* W omen without children are more likely to postpone seeking shelter out of concern for their pets‘safety as compared to women withchildren,33.3% versus 19.5%.
NCADV PublicPolicyOfficefl1633Q StNW #210flWashington,DC 20009 fl(202)745-1211flFax:(202)745-0088publicpolicy@ ncadv.org


BARRIERS TO SEEKING SERVICES
* 65% of women who report prior pet abuse continue to worryfor their pets‘welfare after entryinto ashelter.
* Up to 40% of domestic violence victims are unable to escape their abusers because they are concerned about what will happen to their pets when theyleave.
* Only12% of domestic violence programs can provide shelter for pets and 24% provide referral services to local animal welfare organizations.
* Victims of domestic violence have been known to live in their cars for as long as four months until an opening was available at apet-friendlysafe house or shelter.


TIPS FOR VICTIMS WITH PETS
* Some shelters allow pets and manyothers have established —safe haven“foster care programs for the animal victims of domestic violence.
* If it is not possible to take the animals when the victim leaves the home,tryto arrange temporary shelter for the pets withaveterinarian,trusted friend or familymember,or local animal shelter.
* W hen vaccinating pets against rabies and licensing them withthe town or county,it is important that registrations are in the victim‘s name. This will serve as proof that the victim owns the pets.
* Prepare the pets for aquickdeparture:collect vaccination records,pet license,medical records, and other documents.
* Askfor help from animal care and control officers or law enforcement if pets need to be retrieved from the abuser. Never reclaim animals alone.


IF YOU NEED HELP
For more information or if youneed help,please contact the
Am erican Hum aneAssociation at303-792-9900.
National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE.
National Child Abuse Hotline at 1-800-4-A-CHILD.
National Sexual Assault Hotline at 1-800-656-HOPE.

 


 

 


July News 2008:


 

Pet Wash!

Saturday, July 19, 2008
9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Water Works Car Wash
714 W. Jackson St, Macomb

 
Dogs Only - All dogs must be on a leash or in a crate.
Proceeds benefit the Humane Society of McDonough County Programs.

Click here to visit our Pet Wash webpage!

 

Calling for Volunteers Who Love to Garden!

 

The Humane Society of McDonough County is working with Macomb Beautiful to improve the landscaping around the McDonough County Animals Shelter. If you would be interested helping plant or contributing plants, please email webmaster or call Noel Wilson @ 837-1808. Please include a contact number and what days of the week would work best for you.

Thank you!

 

Fat Cat Ugly Dog Contest
Heritage Days
June 28, 2008

Hosted by Animal Medical Center and the McDonough County Animal Shelter

Rogue

Rogue, the Golden Retreiver
First Place in the Shelter Animal Category

Click here to see pictures from Heritage Day's Fat Cat Ugly Dog contest!

 

Pet Profile

Meet Oscar Finley


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Is Most Likely: Playing with Dax, Romie, and Tank

Celebrity Wannabe: Ray Charles

Dream Job: To be the Boss

Born: in Beirut, Lebanon. And yes, he has a passport and a microchip!

Biography: Oscar may have been born blind, but he has an owner who loves and cares for him, and in his own words, "I may be blind, but I'm not handicapped."

Read more about Oscar...

 

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...My name is Oscar Finlay. It was cold and raining the night my Momma adopted me. I was hiding in some bushes at the American University in Beirut, when a nice girl found me. She called my Momma and told her to hurry and come to pick me up. When Momma came and got me it was love at first sight. Well…for her. For me, it was love at first smell. I’m blind. Someone poisoned my birth mother when my brothers and sisters and I were still in her belly. I was born with one eye, but it wasn’t fully formed and my other socket was infected. Momma took me in and cared for me. She took me to a vet and had my bad eye removed and my infected socket cleaned. After that I felt much better. I didn’t like it when she had to clean them. I’m happy she doesn’t need to do it anymore. I had a friend named Nermal. He was a grey cat. Momma found him under a car one night covered in oil. We were the best of friends. One morning, Nermal was gone. We don’t have screens in Lebanon. I guess he left. We miss him.

Even though I am blind I get around very well. My hearing and sense of smell are very good. I remember the way the furniture is arranged. I only bump into things if I’m startled and run too fast. I like to play and wreak havoc like any other kitty. I had a lot of fun the day I found a bag of potting soil! I opened it and spread it all over the kitchen floor. I backed up and ran fast, sliding across the floor on the loose dirt. I did this over and over. It was so much fun. Momma said I was precious.

One morning Momma said we were moving home to the U.S.A. I thought we were home. I had to go to the vet again for shots and a kitty passport that came with an I.D. microchip. Mama said it’s in my neck. They gave me medicine to help me sleep through the long flights to the U.S.A. When we landed in Chicago, they unloaded us animals onto the tarmac. The cat next to me was howling up a storm. Momma saw me and yelled my name. I heard her and answered her with my mert-mert. (I don’t meow.) We had another ½ hour flight to Peoria. Momma’s sister-friend Jenifer picked us up from the airport. They were laughing and talking all the way back to Bushnell. I did manage to get some more sleep though.

When we got to Bushnell I met a black cat with green eyes named Dax. A friend of our family left him with Uncle Craig. He’s ours now. He was very lonely when I got here, so he was happy to meet me. He let me take my time to get and know him. We are great friends now. We sleep together in Momma’s bed. Then Romie came home from Aunt Lara’s house where she was staying. She is a calico cat. She used to live in Romania. She thinks she is the boss. I know I am the boss. Sometimes we fight about it. But, I know she will come to realize I’m right. Momma brought a little black and white, long haired kitten home one day. His name is Tank. He’s from Bushnell, like Dax. Momma says Tank is our brother now. Sometimes he irritates me. He likes to lie in wait on chairs and swat my head when I walk by. He also likes to run up and swat my face then run away. Then I sit up and give the air around me a good clawing and he knows I mean business!

I know the layout of our two-story Victorian home now. I get around just fine. I come running with the other cats when I hear the treats rattle. Momma didn’t know if I could manage steps. Of course I do!  I may be blind but I’m not handicapped.

By Lainie Finlay and Jenifer Riddell.

 

 

Domestic Violence Bill
There was an amendment added to House Bill (HB0009) on Protection of Domestic Violence that allows pets to be added to the order. It just passed this past Jan. 08. This might save a lot of animals from being used/harmed to 'get back at' a family member by a domestic abuser!

 The bill itself is very long, so here is the Synopsis off the link of just the animal amendment part:
Synopsis As Introduced
Amends the Code of Criminal Procedure of 1963 and the Illinois Domestic Violence Act of 1986. Provides that the court may include in the order of protection granting the petitioner the exclusive care, custody, or control of any animal owned, possessed, leased, kept, or held by either the petitioner or the respondent or a minor child residing in the residence or household of either the petitioner or the respondent and ordering the respondent to stay away from the animal and forbidding the respondent from taking, transferring, encumbering, concealing, harming, or otherwise disposing of the animal.

 

  

 

 


 

PA’s Puppy Mill Reform Bill Scores a Victory!
Link to ASPCA Puppy Mill Reform webpage

On Tuesday, June 24, an important piece of ASPCA-supported, state-level legislation addressing puppy mills took a giant leap forward as Pennsylvania House Bill 2525 was passed by the House Committee on Agriculture and Rural Affairs. HB 2525 sets higher standards for conditions in Pennsylvania’s commercial kennels. Among other protections for dogs, the bill would double the minimum floor space for primary enclosures, require that dogs have access to an outdoor exercise area and mandate annual veterinary care.

Securing this committee’s approval was the bill’s final procedural hurdle—it is now eligible to be voted on by the full PA House of Representatives.

Cori A. Menkin, Esq., Senior Director of Legislative Initiatives at the ASPCA, testified before the House Agriculture Committee Hearing on June 12 in support of HB 2525. Aided by the steadfast and vocal support of Pennsylvania members of the ASPCA Advocacy Brigade, Menkin was instrumental in helping to secure approval of the bill.

“We are grateful to the committee for their support and are hopeful that its chairman, Michael Hanna, will move the bill to the full floor for a vote quickly,” says Menkin. “This bill is a tremendous opportunity to dramatically improve the lives of dogs in Pennsylvania's commercial kennel industry, and the ASPCA remains committed to helping push this much-needed piece of legislation through.”

To learn more about the plight of puppy mill dogs, please visit ASPCA.org/puppymills.

 

  
 


 

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June 26, 2008

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Yesterday, The Humane Society of the United States led a massive rescue effort to save nearly 700 breeding dogs and puppies in the largest puppy mill rescue in Tennessee history.
Watch exclusive video of the rescue of hundreds of animals from the horrors of the Pine Bluff Kennels puppy mill operation.
The HSUS is working with a small army of dedicated individuals, and the animals are now safely housed in a temporary emergency shelter operated by The HSUS, where veterinarians are assessing the animals' medical needs. The animals will be placed with HSUS partner shelters and given the chance to be adopted into loving homes.
After you watch the video, take these five actions to help put all puppy mills out of business:

On Facebook? If so, join the nearly 56,000 Facebook members already fighting the cruelty of puppy mills.

Add a Stop Puppy Mills web banner or badge to your website, blog, or social networking profile.

If you bought a dog from a pet store or Internet site, share your story so others can learn from your experience.

Buy a campaign T-shirt and spread the word about puppy mills.

Make a special donation to help save dogs and puppies from puppy mills.

Thank you for all that you do for animals.
Sincerely,

Wayne Pacelle
President & CEO
The Humane Society of the United States

 

  
 


Get 'Em While You Can: ASPCA Travel Gear at Wal-Mart!

Pet parents, if you’re ready to vacation with your furry sidekicks, the ASPCA is ready to help keep them safe. Starting on June 27, select Wal-Mart stores across the country will carry items from the ASPCA’s specially branded pet travel and safety product line—but only for a limited time. Developed in close collaboration with our staff of animal behaviorists and pet experts, these innovative and affordable items range from safety musts such as see-them-in-the-dark light-up dog leashes and car safety seats to helpful no-spill travel water bowls and collapsible carriers. Check our store listing to see if these goodies are available in a Wal-Mart near you. And remember, a percentage of each purchase goes to support the ASPCA's efforts to fight animal cruelty.

P.S. Before embarking on your journey, please read the ASPCA's car and air travel safety tips. Bon voyage!

Here's a listing Wal*Mart stores in Illinois and Iowa carrying ASPCA Pet Friendly Products:

Illinois
Antioch
Collinsville
Hodgkins
Mount
Vernon
Quincy
Benton
Danville
Jerseyville
Normal
Salem
Bridgeview East Peoria
Marion
Peoria
Sterling
Carbondale Galesburg Mattoon Peru Wood River
Iowa
Ankeny
Coralville
Des Moines
Keokuk
Ottumwa
Cedar Falls
Council Bluffs
Dubuque
Marshalltown
Waterloo
Cedar Rapids Davenport Ft. Dodge Muscatine West
Burlington

Click here for a complete list of stores.

 
 


 

June 2008 News:


 

June is Adopt-A-Shelter Cat Month!

Ike
"Ike"
is a gorgeous 1-2 year old black male. Won't you give him a home?
If you are interested in adopting this or any animal, please email the
McDonough County Animal Shelter
or call 309-837-2989
Click here to view the other felines available at the McDonough County Animal Shelter

 

  

Heat Reminder for your Pets!

Pets in Cars in the summer can be hazardous!
On a warm day, Never leave your pet unattended in a parked car for any period of time at all. The temperature in a car can reach 120-150 degrees Fº in a matter of minutes even with the windows partially open. Cracking the windows partially is not enough to deter the heat inside a car! Your pet can quickly suffer brain damage or die from heatstroke or suffocation in just a matter of minutes. Even ten minutes could be too long for a pet left in the car on a hot day. The short stop you plan to make at the store could easily stretch to several minutes. Be your pet’s best friend and leave him at home.

Heat can be hazardous to pets tied or penned outside!
During the hot summer days, your best protection for your pet is to bring them inside to a cooler environment. If this cannot be done, please make sure they have plenty of fresh clean water and shade; preferably shade from trees and refresh water regularly. Also, be aware that when walking your dog, you may want to avoid the hot pavement, as it can burn their feet.

For more information, or if you suspect heat related illness in your pet, contact your veterinarian!

Helpful Links for additional info:
http://www.healthypets.com/heatstroke.html
http://www.thepetcenter.com/gen/hs.html

 

  

 

The McDonough County Animal Shelter Now Tests for Heartworm

The Shelter also provides some initial vaccinations, including Bordetella and Distemper. These are important initial steps to ensure healthy animals but keep in mind if you are considering adopting from the Shelter, you will need to complete the following:

  • Have your pet examined by a veterinarian and arrange for any remaining vaccinations to be completed. Pets older than 4 months must have a rabies vaccination and registration with the county. This is state law.
  • Have your pet's stool analyzed for parasites and treated as needed.
  • Begin heartworm prevention immediately. A second heartworm test in 6 months is recommended.
  • Arange for spay/neuter, if not already done. This is part of your contract with the Shelter.

 

  
 


 

Travels with Charley, or Angel, or Storm....

Are you planning a trip this summer with your four-legged, furry family members? According to the ASPCA, your pet should have a microchip for identification and always wear a collar and ID tag with an address or phone number where you can be reached—that includes cell phone number and destination info. Consider purchasing a $5 ID tag from the HSMC with a cell phone number and any other information that would be helpful in reuniting you and your pet in the event you are seperated. The HSMC tags are exceptionally durable and etched twice so information does not wear off.
The HSMC tag machine travels between Animal Medical and All Pets.

  • Before you embark on your journey, the ASPCA would like to offer a few helpful hints.

    • Please visit your veterinarian before traveling to make sure your pet is up to date on vaccinations and has all the medications he needs. Also ask about parasites or other health risks native to your destination. For travel outside of the continental United States, additional planning and health care requirements may be necessary. Contact the foreign office of the country you are traveling to for more information.
    • Your pet should have a microchip for identification and always wear a collar and ID tag with an address or phone number where you can be reached—that includes cell phone number and destination info.
    • Always bring plenty of plastic jugs filled with bottled or tap water from home. Drinking water she’s not used to could upset your pet’s stomach. If flying, freeze water in a bowl the night before. It won’t spill during loading and it’ll melt by the time she’s thirsty.
    • Fly your pet in a USDA-approved shipping crate large enough for her to comfortably stand, sit and turn around in. Write “Live Animal” in large letters on at least two sides of the crate, and draw arrows indicating the crate’s upright position. (Of course you should ask the airline if small animals can fly with you in the cabin.)
    • If driving, never leave your pet in a parked automobile. On a hot day, even with the windows open, a stationary vehicle can become a furnace in no time, and heatstroke can develop.

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  • For more ASPCA travel tips, go to:

ASPCA Car Travel Tips

APCA Air Travel Tips

 

  
 


Peoria Journal Star article 'The Unwanted Truth'

If you haven't read the article that ran in the Sunday, May 4, 2008 paper, you can still read it at:

Peoria Journal Star

Feature Article The Unwanted Truth

Full Interactive Article

On Sunday, May 4, the Peoria Journal Star ran a heart-wrenching article, "The Unwanted Truth".  The reporter, Ryan Ori, writes about the hard fact facing many of our animal shelters today, euthanasia as the only option for the majority of unwanted pets that arrive at their doors.  According to the article, PAWS (Peoria Animal Welfare Shelter) takes in approximately 8,500 animals each year.  About 5,200 are put to death.  But PAWS isn't alone.  Shelters all over the country, including the McDonough County Animal Shelter, are being inundated with unwanted animals.  Why so many? And why so many animals that are truly fine, even exceptional pets that have been owned, cared for, and at some point in their lives, loved? 
Shelters take in all animals, whether the animal is a product of uncontrolled feral breeding, the product of family and farm pets that have never been spayed or neutered, the consequence of an impulse buy that the owners were ill equipped to handle, or a beloved pet that's been relinquished.  Whatever the reason, shelters are forced to make the hard decisions brought on by too many animals, not enough space. According to the article, "sick, injured or aggressive animals are the first to go.  Feral cats, those that are wild and unable to interact with humans, are automatically put down.  After that, choices get tougher.  The animals that seem most adoptable based on personality or attractiveness might be spared for another day or two." 

I don't know what the solution to the pet overpopulation dilemma will be.  I certainly don't think it will be an easy fix.  But ignoring it is no longer an option.

P.S. The McDonough County Animal Shelter has some very nice cats and dogs right now. Click here to view available animals.

 

  


 

 
 

 

 

May 2008 News:

  
   
 


Thank You to all New and Renewing Members!

Thank you to everyone who participated in this spring's membership drive. This year, the HSMC has introduced two membership perks: 1) a refrigerator magnet with HSMC contact information and 2) a membership card with membership level and expiration date. We hope HSMC members find these items useful.
If you'd like to renew or become a new member, click here to link to the HSMC membership page.
If you have questions about your membership, please email inquiries to the HSMC Vice President.



Letter to the Editor from Janet Harwick

Oprah recently spotlighted the horrors of puppy mills on her show. If you were not able to see the show, I urge you to visit her website and read about it. These Puppy Mill dogs often live in deplorable conditions, confined in cages their entire lives with little human contact. Their sole purpose is for breeding and when they are deemed no longer useful, they are usually destroyed unless they are among the few lucky ones that are rescued. When making the choice to bring a pet into your family, please visit your local shelter first. There are so many wonderful, loving animals of all sizes, ages, and breeds just waiting for a second chance at a happy home. Shelters and breed rescue groups also have many purebred dogs available. Please remember to spay and neuter your pets, too. It's the healthiest choice for them and will help fight the tremendous problem of pet overpopulation.
Janet Harwick
P.S. The McDonough County Animal Shelter would greatly appreciate any donations of dog food.



Oprah Show 4/4/08
Many of you watched Oprah's show on April 4, 2008 about Puppy Mills.
Here are some links to the groups involved in the show and other organizations involved in public awareness and the fight to close puppy mills:
Humane Society of the US Puppy Mill Fight Continues

Main Line Animal Rescue

Pennsylvania's Cash Crop

ASPCA How to Fight Puppy Mills

 

Thank You!

The Humane Society of McDonough County has had a huge response this spring to our Pet Food and Product Proof-of-Purchase program. We've even received UPCs from as far away as Casper Wyoming!
A huge thank you to members and non-members alike who have sent in Proof of Purchases. What tremendous support!

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HELP ANIMALS BY COLLECTING PROOF-OF-PURCHASE FROM PET FOOD BAGS AND CANS!
Help the Humane Society raise money to pay veterinary bills for injured/ill rescued animals.
Please help by clipping the PURINA WEIGHT CIRCLES (sample to left) from Purina Chow bags
or by clipping UPCs from IAMs/EUKANUBA and PEDIGREE dry and canned food containers.
You may mail/drop off to 1) the Humane Society - P.O. Box 7 - Macomb, IL 61455
2) the McDonough County Animal Shelter, HWY 67 N & Tower Road, Macomb
3) All Pets, C/O Dr. Blakeley, 722 W. Jackson, Macomb, IL 61455
4) Animal Medical Center, 100 S. Dudley, Macomb, IL 16455.
THANK YOU!!

 



 

 

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