Pet First Aid – Red Cross
Available on iOS and Android platforms, this free Pet First Aid app was created by the Red Cross to give the pet owner instant veterinary information on what to do in an emergency.
This app “provides first aid information for both dogs and cats. It provides very simple step-by-step instructions that are designed to guide you through various everyday issues” and pet emergencies. Numerous videos and images for more than 25 common first aid and emergency situations are available to the pet owner. Instructions for treating wounds, controlling bleeding and caring for breathing and cardiac emergencies are a few examples of available information.
This app is highly rated and available on Google Play for Android users and on the App Store for iOS users.
Apppicker.com redcross.org
Harley’s Dream
The Harley’s Dream rescue organization was established in 2016 in honor of Harley, a senior one-eyed puppy mill survivor who became the face and voice of the puppy mill dogs, earning the distinction of being the 2015 American Hero Dog for his work. The mission is to create awareness and educate the public about the cruel commercial dog breeding industry (also known as puppy mills) and to rescue and rehome senior dogs in need.
A grassroots approach by large groups of concerned citizens is the most effective way to bring about change to the puppy mill industry. “There may be as few as 100 or as many as 1,000 breeding stations housed at a single facility. It is estimated there are approximately 10,000 puppy mills in the US…
Harley’s Dream is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization located in Berthoud, Colorado. EIN #81-4432191
Harleysdream.org
MA Legislation Combats Puppy Mills
A few weeks ago, Massachusetts lawmakers re-introduced legislation banning new pet stores from selling dogs, cats and rabbits unless they come from animal shelters or rescue organizations. Also, an alternative proposal was created that would ban all pet stores, including existing businesses, from selling animals that come from commercial breeding facilities.
Generally, both bills were supported by animal welfare activists but some pet stores owners and lobbyists voiced disapproval for the proposals. They were concerned that the restrictions would cause a number of new issues related to animal welfare.
One politician stated, “Commercial pet shops in Massachusetts source their animals from out-of-state USDA-licensed commercial breeding facilities. The USDA regulations that govern standard of care and breeding of commercially retailed pets are woefully inadequate - almost disgusting. Let’s rid our state of the last lifeline that puppy mills have”.
Dogtime.com 11/13,2023
Declawing: A Lifetime of Pain and Distress
The Animal Legal Defense Fund is currently supporting legislation in Arizona that will ban cat declawing with exceptions for the cat’s health such as cancer of the nail bed.
Declawing (onychectomy) actually involves removing the last bones of the cat’s toes, not just the claws. Without these bones, changes in the cat’s balance and posture occur. These changes can lead to chronic pain and behavioral issues such as biting. The cat feels vulnerable – they can no longer defend themselves with claws.
Many cat owners use declawing as a method to stop the natural inclination of scratching. Is amputating the end bones of the toes the only way to change this natural behavior?
For more information see aldf.org/protectpaws