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Former First Daughters Give Advice To Sasha And Malia Obama

blogmaster — Tue, 20 Jan 2009 18:39:00 GMT

Today was an historical day in our country's history. For many it just have been one of the most important events they will ever see. Today was a day when the spirit of freedom that fuels this country spoke to the world. A day of remembering what is most grand about living in these United States. A day for hopes and dreams. But for some it's also the end of a very large chapter in their lives.

You may have not caught this mornings issue of the Wall Street Journal, but in it buried beneath the headlines focusing on the incoming president elect lies a very touching article written by out going first daughters Jenna and Barbara Bush. Written as an open letter to Barack Obama's daughters Sasha and Malia, Jenna and Barbara shared some of their fondest memories of their timing living in and around the White House and gave a bit of advice on how to brave the life of a presidents daughter. Amoung their words of wisdom they wrote "Surround yourself with loyal friends. They'll protect and calm you and join in on some of the fun, and appreciate the history....If you're traveling with your parents over Halloween, don't let it stop you from doing what you would normally do. Dress up in some imaginative, elaborate costume (if you are like us a pack of Juicy Fruit and a Vampiress) and trick-or-treat down the plane aisle.....In fact, go to anything and everything you possibly can: the Kennedy Center for theater, State Dinners, Christmas parties (the White House staff party is our favorite!), museum openings, arrival ceremonies, and walks around the monuments. Just go. Four years goes by so fast, so absorb it all, enjoy it all."

One of the most touching pieces of advice and the reason I am sharing this with you here on a website devoted to pets, is a very touching sentiment about the importantance of having a furry friend to turn to. "A note on White House puppies--our sweet puppy Spot was nursed on the lawn of the White House. And then of course, there's Barney, who most recently bit a reporter. Cherish your animals because sometimes you'll need the quiet comfort that only animals can provide."

After reading this I can't help but wonder if this doesn't hold true for all of us who own pets. Life is never easy and not always fair, but those of us who consider a pet as a member of our family as much loved as grandma and grandpa those quiet moments of comfort with our animals are often all we need to pick ourselves up and carry on. If you are thinking about owning a pet or simply want a friend who will be loyal to the very end, there's an animal shelter near you full of pets that desperately wants your love and attention. All it takes is the ability to care.

Update: Ratchet The Military Pup

blogmaster — Mon, 19 Jan 2009 18:29:00 GMT

Waaay back last October, I brought you the story of one soldier's love for a stray dog and her efforts to bring it back to the states safe and sound. For those who may not remember "Ratchet was saved by Sgt. Gwen Beberg who intended to have the pup accompany her as she transferred out of Iraq, but ran into a road block of sorts when a high ranking official confiscated Ratchet sighting the Army's rule that prohibits stray animals."

Well this weekend thanks to the help of Sgt. Beberg, her parents, a petition signed by 70,000 people, and a little bit of governmental flexibility, Ratchet and Beberg were reunited in her home town of Spring Lake Park, Mn. While Ratchet actually made it to the U.S several months ago, Beberg's tour wasn't over so her parents opted to taking care of the pup for their daughter who they hadn't seen in almost two years. But time couldn't do any damage to this bond, as Beberg and her beloved puppy were reunited to a gathering of 60 well-wishers. Talking like a true pet owner the first thing Beberg said to Ratchet was "Hey, baby. Oh, you got so big -- Oh, you got so big,. Yeah, who's home? Who's home, huh" adding to those in attendance "I wish every soldier in the world, past, present and future, came home to a welcome like this."

Talking Time Out For Your Pets

blogmaster — Fri, 16 Jan 2009 18:44:00 GMT

One of the best and most rewarding things about owning a new kitten or puppy is the tons of playtime that is had those first few months. As your new pet gets older play time will still take place, but there is nothing like those first few months when you are getting to know each other and everything is new. With all the fun though a little bit of discipline needs to be mixed in so that you new kitty doesn't grow up to be a mean old cat. Just like toddlers learning the rules of the house for the first time, new pets are constantly testing their boundaries and discovering what is appropriate and what can get them into some serious trouble. For pets if not taught early biting, chewing, and scratching can become a serious problem. So what should a new pet owner do when their loveable furry new pet turns into a biting machine? Well believe it or not Time Out works for both toddlers and pets.

The next time you are playing with your new puppy or kitten and the playing starts to turn rough, try this easy 1,2,3 step technique:

Stop playtime immediately! Even if the pet persists stop participating in the fun.
Ignore your pet. I know this sounds mean, but by leaving the room or turning your back on the animal you are adding consequence to their actions. Consider this the opposite of giving them a treat for following a command.
Give it time. Don't just wait 20 seconds and then jump back in. Let enough time pass so that the animal realizes something occurred to change the situation and stop the fun. A couple of minutes should be plenty

Remember, just like everyone else pets need a certain amount of structure in their life in order to avoid getting hurt or hurting others. With a little consistency and some repetition soon your pet will be playing fair once again.

Golden Globe Winner Rourke Going To The Dogs

blogmaster — Fri, 16 Jan 2009 00:14:00 GMT

It didn't take long for recent Golden Globe winner Mickey Rourke to announce his next project following his win this past weekend. The long time acting veteran and star of the critically acclaimed "The Wrestler" picked up a Golden Globe for Best Actor. During his speech to the millions watching on television as well as attending the star studded event, Rourke proclaimed his love for dogs in his acceptance speech. In one of the nights most touching moments Rourke thanked his pups "ones that are here and the ones that aren't here anymore" adding that "Sometimes when a man is alone, that's all you've got is your dog," he said. "They meant the world to me."

After hearing Rourke's speech, PETA contacted the actor about possibly appearing in their new ad campaign. Now he can be seen posing with his Chihuahua Jaws in the new PETA campaign, which centers around the importance of having your pets spayed and neutered. In the ad Rourke urges pet owners to" have the cojones to fix your dog. When dogs get (pregnant), puppies get put down because there aren't enough homes for them." After admitting that he felt guilty for buying pets at a retail store instead of adopting them from a nearby shelter, Rourke recently posted a video on PETA's website in which he states "I became a little more aware of how many dogs are abandoned or put to sleep each week - it's staggering. The most important thing about having a dog and loving a dog is keeping the dog its whole natural life. You have a responsibility to communicate with your animal how much he means to you" If you are interested in helping spread the word about how important it is to have your pet spayed or neutered follow this link to the ASPCA to locate a shelter near you.

Is Your Pet Preventing Your Home From Being Sold?

blogmaster — Thu, 15 Jan 2009 03:14:00 GMT

In today's rough and tumble housing market those wishing to move and in the process sell their old home are having a tough time finding anybody willing to pay what they feel the house is worth. Now more than ever it's the little things about a home that ultimately have the greatest impact on deciding if it will be sold and those first impressions have to really amaze perspective buyers. Recently MSNBC did a report on 10 Ways Not To Sell Your Home in which they talked about how home owners really need to take an in-depth look at how their homes appear in the eyes of another and what just has to be gotten rid of in order to get that great first impression so strongly desired. Among ideas on "toning it down" and "getting rid of everything you wouldn't want your mother to see" are a couple of gems that I think all home owners who are also pets owners should keep in mind. Specifically "Does your home pass the sniff test" and what to do about that "distracting doggie"

As I mentioned above, when selling your home the trick is to snag potential buyers with that all important first impression, so imagine this scenario: You've been working for months getting ready for your open house. The yard is immaculate. The floors are spotless. That fresh coat of paint transformed your living room into something out of Home & Gardens. Suddenly just when a potential buyer is about to pronounce their love for your home....Rover runs in, jumps all over them, and licks them in the face. Suddenly you cringe as you hear how much they dislike dogs and you see that offer that was moments away sail out the window. Honestly while this may all be hypothetical it's not a situation that is all that farfetched (excuse the pun). Animals can be distracting to those looking at your home for the first time, that's why it's best to find a way to keep them out of the picture. When trying to hide your pet think about asking someone to pet sit at their place for a few hours, or take the opportunity to send your pup to the groomers, or if all else fails keep them away from the action where they won't interfere with the open house.

Now let's talk about that Sniff Test. Nobody sells their home overnight and for those with cats this is probably a good thing. Not to say that cat lovers smell, but even those that change their litter box daily have those occasional not so fresh moments. This is why it's so important to make sure your home is odor free come time to open your house for public scrutiny. Remember it's those first few moments that a prospective buyer is either won over or lost forever. Even if you think your home is odor free, get a second opinion and at least for the day think about removing your litter box from the home (while your cat is getting groomed as mentioned above).

Selling your home is never easy and in this current day and age it's nearly impossible. For pet owners this holds especially true since our homes also contain animals that though may be loveable can also be distraction for those looking to make you an offer.

Preventing Your Pet From Being Stolen

blogmaster — Thu, 15 Jan 2009 02:38:00 GMT

A major part of being a husband is dropping off your spouse so that she can "run in real quick" and pick up that latest must have blouse that has caught her eye. Of course every husband will tell you that A) real quick means 45 minutes to an hour and B)that blouse of course might get lonely without the matching skirt, shoes, and purse that goes with so naturally they must be purchased also. What you inevitably end up with every weekend is a parking lot full of guys just hanging out in their cars listening to whatever game happens to be on, while praying for some type of relief. As a husband who is continuously finding himself in this type of situation it's in these moments that I find myself watching the goings on of the parking lot. One thing I have noticed is that a large number of people like to leave their pets sitting in their cars while they (you guessed it) "run in real quick". I've never understood the reason for bringing your pet along with you to the store and honestly the only person who it seems convenient for are the criminals out there who are just dying to get their hands on a great dog for nothing.

When it comes to wrong do'ers, pet snatching is a very easy way to make a quick buck. Nobody can be with their pet 24hrs a day and with a little patience a rare breed can easily be taken in a matter of seconds. Recently in the February edition of DogWorld magazine, one contributor listed 7 Tips To Keeping Your Pet From Being Stolen:

1. Never leave your pet alone in the car. Most who are caught taking pets out of somebody else's car claim they are taking the pet because they thought it was in danger of overheating. While this may be a noble reason the fact is they are taking what is not theirs
2. Print your last name and contact info as well as your pet's name on their id collars
3. If you have an outside pet, keep things private. The easiest way to avoid prying eyes is either add a fence or create some natural privacy by planting trees and large shrubs.
4. Don't advertise that you have a specific breed of animal. Meaning if you have certain toys that a specific breed of dog is known to enjoy, keep them put up when not in use so potential thieves are not alerted to their presence
5. Let people know who is taking care of your pet while you are away. Pick a neighbor you trust and let them in on the fact that you will be gone and if they see anyone other than the person you have chosen to visit your pet daily then the need to contact yourself and the police ASAP.
6. Carry a recent photo of your pet to prove that it is yours and help in the search should it go missing
7. For inside pets who have their own room or for outside pets, installing a surveillance camera could just be enough to keep your pet safe and sound.

The most important thing to remember about preventing your pet from being stolen is to be aware of your surroundings and to make sure you've done enough to deter any potential pet-nappings from being committed.

Sammy The Post Office Cat

blogmaster — Thu, 15 Jan 2009 00:22:00 GMT

A few months back we brought you the tail of Tama the Super Station Master cat which single handedly changed the entire economy of one small Japanese town thanks to a creative add campaign by a local train station. Well as it turns out Tama isn't the only cat that is helping bring a community together. Meet Sammy The Post Office Cat! For the past several years Sammy has been calling the tiny little post office located in Notasulga, Al. his home. The way the locals tell it, Sammy has more friends that anybody in the entire county and not a day goes by where he doesn't find himself taking a catnap on the bench inside the post office.

Recently though Sammy found himself homeless when an anonymous citizen wrote the officials of the post office saying that until he started paying taxes, Sammy shouldn't be allowed to live in a federal building. Unfortunately whether they liked it or not, town officials had to agree with the complaint and Sammy was tossed out on his ear. As is the case with small towns, it didn't take long before residents got wind of Sammy's eviction and began to protest.

Among the Sammy supporters, several told reporters "One of the pleasures of living in a small town is having a post office cat." "He doesn't bother a soul", and that "Most of the time he just slept on the table all day." Soon everyone in town couldn't quit talking about Sammy and even the town's most famous resident himself got involved. Former Auburn University football coach Pat Dye made it clear what was bringing him and other together everyday in front of the post office "We ain't worried about football. We're worried about the cat."

It was then that somebody decided that if you can't beat the system you may as well find a solution that works with it, so this week to the delight of all those who show up to check their mail everyday Sammy can once again be seen lounging on his favorite table taking a nap....right next to his very own post office box paid for by one big hearted animal loving resident.

What To Feed Your Rabbit

blogmaster — Fri, 09 Jan 2009 23:44:00 GMT

I'm the first to admit that too often we spend most if not all of the week talking about dogs and cats exclusively. Occasionally we will discuss those issues facing pet owners of a different variety, but for the most part our stories do center on the two most popular pets. This is something we want to change and are making an effort to include posts on all pets not just the main two. After all Petsource is your one stop spot on the web for the latest tips, stories, and info on your pets, not those that just bark and meow. With this in mind, I thought today we'd talk about all those little bunnies everyone will be receiving this Spring and just what they need to have on their menu.

Most people think that rabbits only eat carrots and lettuce, but in fact there are tons of foods that are great for a bunnies diet. According to the San Diego Chapter of the House Rabbit Society rabbits can be feed:

Vegetables:

Alfalfa, radish & clover sprouts
Basil
Beet greens (tops)*
Bok Choy
Broccoli (mostly leaves/stems)*
Brussels sprouts
Carrot & carrot tops*
Celery
Cilantro
Clover
Collard greens*
Dandelion greens and flowers (available in produce aisle)*
Endive*
Escarole
Green peppers
Kale *
Mint
Mustard greens*
Parsley*
Pea pods (the flat edible kind)*
Peppermint leaves
Radicchio
Radish tops
Raspberry leaves
Red or Green Leaf lettuce
Romaine lettuce (no iceberg lettuce)*
Spinach *
Watercress*
Wheat grass

Fruits:

Apple
Blueberries
Melon
Orange (be sure to remove the peel as it can harbor pesticides)
Papaya
Peach
Pear
Pineapple
Plums
Raspberries
Strawberries

The most important thing to remember when deciding what to feed your pet rabbit though is that everything must be given in moderation. In terms of leafy vegetables i.e. lettuce, parsley, kale your new rabbit needs to have 1 cup for every 4lbs they weight everyday of the week. These types of foods provide Vitamin A, which is essential to their diets. However like with all foods on the list when attempting to feed them something new, make sure you give it to them in small amounts so that you can monitor how they will react to the new addition to their diet. Fruits can be given a couple times a week and only in tiny portions and never give your rabbit chocolate. Chocolate and other "human treats" can be very deadly for your bunny.

With a bit of moderation and some close attention to what best works with their personalities, in no time you will have your bunny eating a healthy variety of foods in no time.

Internet Scam Targeting Pet Owners

blogmaster — Fri, 09 Jan 2009 02:38:00 GMT

You may remember a few months back when I did a whole week on all the great things you can find at Petsource.Org (besides yours truly of course). It was then that I first introduced you to all the fantastic resources that can be accessed with a simple click of the mouse. This week one such resource, the AVMA (American Veterinarian Medical Association) is alerting pet owners of a new internet scam that could potentially be stealing millions from unsuspecting victims.

The way the scam works is that fraudulent ads are placed on internet market sites such as Craigslist and Ebay each offering popular breeds of pets at great prices. Once somebody expresses interest in purchasing the animal, they are told that the pet can be theirs with a simple wire payment to a bank in Cameroon or the U.K. In order to give the scam some credibility legitimate shipping companies are given as potential carriers of the pet even though in reality they have nothing to do with the crime. Once they have received the first payment, the unknowing buyer is then told more funds are required due to added insurance costs, permits, or medical expenses. As longs as the buyer keeps sending money, the scam continues until they eventually realize they have been taken for a ride.

According to Dr. Gail Golab of the AVMA Animal Welfare Division "Many reputable breeders, who are concerned about making sure the pet receives a suitable home, will not sell animals unless they are able to meet and interview their potential owner or owners. If extenuating circumstances prevent you from meeting with a breeder face-to-face, you should check references and credentials first, and never send money without speaking to the breeder."

If you feel you have become the victim of such a crime as this please contact your local Better Business Bureau at www.bbb.org

Nevada Woman Adopts Over 2 Dozen Dogs

blogmaster — Thu, 08 Jan 2009 01:38:00 GMT

Sadly with the way the economy here in the states is going lately another story about how our nation's animal shelters are overflowing as more and more families decide they can no longer take care of their pets would probably go unnoticed by many. The truth is thousands of articles are being written everyday on the subject with every passing day each with another horrible tale of a shelter on the verge of closing due to lack of funds and too many animals. However as one Nevada woman recently learned, it's one thing to hear about how overcrowded our local pet shelters are and an entirely all too real thing to see it firsthand and up close. So she decided to do something about it.

After losing her beloved 2 year-old pointer Barney to a car accident back in November, after just a few weeks Colleen Spalioni decided it was time for another dog to fill the void. When she got to the animal shelter though, Colleen got the shock of a lifetime "I didn't realize so many animals were dying every day until I saw it with my own eyes." With the sole intention of just adopting one new puppy, within hours Collen found herself unable to resist the urge to save 27 dogs who were each days from being euthanized. According to reports Spalioni soon arrived home with "10 Chihuahua mixes, one purebred Chihuahua, a Jack Russell, a poodle, two shepherd mixes, two miniature pinschers and an Australian cattle dog mix." Little did she know that not all her neighbors would be wagging their tails in excitement over her houseguests. "I didn't realize I was going to be in so much trouble or that so many people would be so angry at what I did." In fact as it turns out not only were Colleen's neighbors unhappy with all the barking, local law enforcement also took issue with her decision to break a law that only allows three pets per household.

Still though Colleen wasn't about to just return the dogs back to the shelter and to the horrible fate that surely would lie ahead for them, instead she quickly spread her story to anyone who would listen and today she's proud to announce that all but four of the dogs have been adopted by a new owner.

Seven Tips On Cleaning Your Pet Friendly Home

blogmaster — Wed, 07 Jan 2009 02:05:00 GMT

I mentioned yesterday that the New Year has brought with it some major soul searching and a need to take stock of what life has become post holiday chaos. One thing is for sure if your home is anything like mine it's time for some major spring-cleaning. Before we just jump right in there though, it's important to consider our pets and how they might be affected by all the work that is planned. In addition with all this housework comes the promise to raise the bar in terms of daily chores. Thankfully the Soap and Detergent Association is there with 7 helpful tips on cleaning a pet friendly home:

Vacuum frequently! Depending on what type of pet you have this may not be something you want to do daily, but a couple times a week is definitely a good idea especially during times of the year when pets begin to shed more heavily
It may not be something you want to tackle now, but a synthetic carpet with a stain-resistant finish is a must have for all those with children and pets.
Cover your pet's favorite hangout with an easily washed blanket or throw.
If you're tired of your pet sleeping on your pillow or in your favorite recliner, try getting them a bed or large pillow of their own. Give them a treat whenever you find them laying on it to get them used to the idea of making the spot permanent
Fabric Refreshener is your friend. Use is often and don't let pet odors linger
Groom your pet frequently. Regardless of whether you have somebody else do it or take care of the task your self, by keeping your pet clean your are essentially keeping you home free of dirt, hair, and other pet problems
Put your pets up when cleaning. Not only will this limit their exposure to potentially harmful chemicals used in the cleaning process, but this will also help stop them from making a mess while you are trying to clean one.

Getting Your Pet Involved In Your New Healthy Lifestyle

blogmaster — Mon, 05 Jan 2009 18:41:00 GMT

Last week I talked some about New Year's resolutions and how important it is to consider your pet when making this year's list. In fact some even go as far as making an entirely separate list of yearly goals specifically for their pet. As we jump head first into the first full week of 2009 like many of you out there I seem to be doing some soul searching and taking stock of things now that the holidays are finally over. By "taking stock of things" I of course mean I keep looking at myself in the mirror and wondering how I'll ever get back to my pre-Thanksgiving weight. The bottom line is it's going to take some work and a drastic change in my eating habits. Since this isn't something I want to do alone and since it appears my oversized cat has been enjoying in the endless buffets himself, I thought what better partner to help me get back in shape than my giant "Garfield" sized kitty. As we all know though an animal's body is vastly different than their human counterparts, so it's important to tailor a new diet specifically for their unique needs.

Tips On Keeping Your Pet Healthier

Rid your home of preservatives- Preservatives are good for no one man or beast. When searching for healthier pet food, look for organic or free-range ingredients.
Clean your water- This year do yourself and your pet a favor and buy a water filter attachment for your sink. Not only are they inexpensive but also they are more than worth any extra costs when compared to the benefits they provide.
Exercise with your pet-If you own a dog, take them for long walks/runs in the morning or late afternoon. For cat fans out there make sure your kitty is getting enough exercise by picking up a few toys that will drive them crazy and have them literally jumping to new heights.
Do away with chemicals- The next time you go to clean something or are outside spraying for bugs, remember your pet and choose alternative items that avoid putting your pet at risk of being exposed to potentially dangerous chemicals.

Changing your lifestyle is never easy and there are new challenges at every corner, but with a little self-control and some help from your furry friend, in no time both you and your loyal pet will be on the road to a newer healthier life in 2009.

New Names For Those Same Old Pets

blogmaster — Fri, 02 Jan 2009 23:07:00 GMT

We've reached the official end of the holidays and I can't believe I'm going to say this but....I'm sad to see them go. Yes they were hectic and nerve racking and were filled with non-stop errands, visits from the family, and mile long buffets, but through all of it there's a magic in the air that just doesn't exist throughout the rest of the 11 months of the year. With the end of the holidays so to comes the final post revolving around this week's theme of all that is NEW. I want to wrap things up with a look back at just how pet owners in 2008 put a NEW twist on naming their pets by coming up with some of the most creative names we've seen in years.

Of course the old standards were still there when it comes to dogs and cats:

Cats Top 10

Lucy
Molly
Oreo
Kittens
Smokey
Princess
Shadow
Tigger
Angel
Missy

Dogs Top 10

Buddy
Max
Daisy
Jack
Lucy
Molly
Charlie
Sadie
Jake
Lucky

In ‘08' it seemed as if the entire world was turned upside down. The economy took a turn for the worst and with it came a sense of change that inspired an not only a change in politics, but a change in how we view things that are typically considered traditional. It's no wonder that this new desire for something new brought an entirely new generation of never before heard of pet names.

Top 10 Unusual Names

Woe Izmee
Gwyneth Poultry
SoSueMe
54cent Swee'T
Imaredneckwoman
Angry Chef Soup
Ms. Cornflake Especially
Bon Jo Flea
McLovin
Joe The Plumber

So what will 2009 bring? A new pup in the White House? A return of our once healthy economy? A kitty cat named Ihearttuna? While the answers may not be clear now one thing is certain, you can check back here everyday in the coming year for the best in pet news and tips from your friends at Scribbles N' Bits!

Sign Up Now For Camp Bow Wow!

blogmaster — Wed, 31 Dec 2008 23:09:00 GMT

It's New Year's Eve and as part of the celebrations, Scribbles N'Bits is proud to kick off the first week of 2009 with something new for everyone. So far this week we have discussed tips on how to help your pet get adjusted to that new baby and we even got around to make 10 Pet Resolutions that we all promise not to break. If you're like me there's no greater celebration than the countless New Year's Eve parties that will be taking place all around the world tonight. Since the party is sure to last all night long, it would be nice if there was someone to call on to come to your home and care for your pet while you are out. In fact forget about tonight, wouldn't it be nice if there were somebody that could pet sit for you on a daily basis? Well recently Camp Bow Wow announced it's brand NEW in home pet care service call Home Buddies.

Now obviously not every town in America has a Camp Bow Wow in their area, but if you are lucky enough to have one nearby, you'd be crazy not to give them a try. Not only does Home Buddies offer in home care for your pets, but also offers grooming, training, food delivery, and shuttle service to and from your veterinarian's office. Plus this isn't just for dogs or cats, Home Buddies promises to help out with birds, fish, reptiles, hamsters, rabbits, and small mammals. According to CEO Heidi Flammang "This is, without a doubt, the most comprehensive pet care service opportunity in the country. Now pet parents can have one trusted, in-home pet care provider capable of delivering the same dependable service our customers enjoy at Camp Bow Wow locations around the country "

If you are stressed about what to do with your pets while you are away at work or out of town on vacation look for Camp Bow Wow's Home Buddies near you. Oh and if you can't locate one nearby, franchises are currently being offered as low as $69k!

New Year's Resolutions For Your Pet

blogmaster — Tue, 30 Dec 2008 18:03:00 GMT

It's a NEW day and that means a NEW post about something NEW from your old pal here at Scribbles N' Bits. Sometime over the next couple of days people all around the world will spend at least a moment or two focusing on one topic....New Year's Resolutions. Some will write theirs down in an effort to cement them in stone and thus make them last all year long. Others will break them minutes after they are made and then will make them again....and then will break them once more after a few more minutes. Still others will languish on and on about just what they want to change until they eventually realize that February is simply too late to start anything new. For pet owners Lorraine Corriveau at Purdue's School of Veterinary Medicine suggests that a separate list of resolutions be made to ensure that their beloved animals stay healthy in 2009.

1. Spay or neuter your pets, adding more years to their lives and improving their behavior.

2. Provide them age-appropriate health care so that you develop a good idea about their health and build a relationship with your veterinarian.

3. Give them a diet suited to their age and medical condition. Pets kept at their ideal body weight live longer. Look for foods designed for different stages of life and medical conditions.

4. Give them medicines regularly to prevent heartworm and fleas.

5. Groom them at home, especially the minor grooming procedures, because it causes less stress.

6. Exercise and play with them more often, each day if possible.

7. Ask your veterinarian or seek expert advice on behavior problems. A basic training class might be useful, especially for a new puppy.

8. Socialize pets with other animals and people by enrolling them in a dog park, an agility/training class or socialization classes.

9. Donate time, effort or resources to a local animal welfare group.

10. If your pet is especially social, patient and people-oriented, consider certifying it as a therapy animal. Studies have confirmed that pets increase a person's life span, help speed recovery in case of young and old patients, and are a great moral booster to people in various psychiatric and medical programs.

A New Year Brings New Babies For Many Families

blogmaster — Sun, 28 Dec 2008 22:09:00 GMT

Now that we have Christmas firmly behind us it's time to look forward towards 2009. What I love the most about New Year's is all the hope and anticipation that it brings with it. It's a time of year made for shrugging off hard times and starting over fresh and new. It's in this vein that I bring you a "NEW" week of posts here at Scribbles N'Bits. Forget something borrowed; forget something blue; every post this week will involve something NEW! The rhyming ends today though. I promise......

Having a baby is a huge event to say the least. Forget the 9 months it takes to have a child, by the time you factor in all the baby showers, getting the room ready, making sure your prepared financially, figuring out the fastest route to the hospital....well those 9 months feel like a year by the time the baby actually arrives. If you also own a pet there's the added task of making sure your pet is prepared for the new arrival. So how exactly do you get your four legged friend ready for your new baby? The Humane Society offered up a few tips on this task.

1. Take your pet to the vet ASAP. If it needs its shots, get them. If it needs spayed/neutered, have it done. If you're worried about how your pet may react to the newborn, ask!
2. Correct any behavior problems. Some pets naturally want to nip and nibble on everything or everyone they see. Before you bring the new baby home something needs to be done to stop this bad habit.
3. Keep your pets nails trimmed. If they have never had this done, start early and get them accustomed to it.
4. Train your pet to not jump on you until you command them to.
5. Invite friends with small children over to get your pet used to the noises a child makes. Some stores even sell baby CDs which are actual recordings of infants crying, laughing, taking a bath, and throwing tantrums.

Remember the most important thing in your life is that new baby, never leave an animal alone with a small child or infant for any reason and always be quick to reprimand bad behavior in your pet.

Santa Claus Pays Special Visit To Needy Pa Pets

blogmaster — Fri, 26 Dec 2008 23:40:00 GMT

Welcome back to Scribbles N' Bits. I hope you and yours enjoyed the Christmas holidays as much as my family and myself. One of my favorite things about this time of year is hearing about all the wonderful stories of how people have taken time out of their busy schedules to do something truly special for complete strangers. This morning as I write this post the news is filled with headlines that involve the extraordinary deeds being done all across the world by those that simply care enough to care. Among those tales that are sure to be circulating through homes and office hallways over the next several days, comes this unique bit of news out of Port Angeles, Pa.

Apparently for the past couple of years Santa has been paying special attention to the needy animals living in and around Port Angeles. Thanks to honorary elves Scott Chandler and Carol Lawrence over 50 pets rested easy this Christmas Eve with a full belly and extra wag in their tales. In conjunction with the local Humane Society executive director Chandler and staff member Lawrence have helped spread the joys of Christmas by delivering food to those in need. According to Chandler "Folks out in the community need a little help, and their animals need a good meal. It helps folks get through the next week or so, so they don't have to worry about buying a bag of dog food. We prefer, if we can, people keep animals at home rather than surrender them to us. We're not going to judge folks. We are really just trying to help the animal."

Of course Santa along with Chandler and Lawrence couldn't have helped nearly the number of pets in need if it weren't for the much needed support from their local community and the donations they receive throughout the entire year. If you wish there was something you could have done to help the thousands of needy pets in your area, it's not too late. All it takes is one phone call to the Humane Society to discover all the ways you can help save the life of a pet near you.

A Rescue Dog's Christmas Carol

blogmaster — Wed, 24 Dec 2008 02:54:00 GMT

Merry Christmas! It's a very special Christmas Eve here at Scribbles N' Bits and to show you just how much we appreciate all of our faithful readers who tune into this blog everyday of the week, today I want to share a Christmas carol that is sure to bring a tear to your eye. Special thanks go out to Gizmo who first introduced me to this wonderful Christmas treat! Enjoy and Merry Christmas!

"Author Unknown
Attributed to the Tuscan Humane Society
(Warning you may need tissues)

'Tis the night before Christmas and all through the town,
Every shelter is full - we are lost but not found.
Our numbers are hung on our kennels so bare,
We hope every minute that someone will care.
They'll come to adopt us and give us the call,
"Come here, Max and Sparkie - come fetch your new ball!!

But now we sit here and think of the days,
We were treated so fondly - we had cute, baby ways.
Once we were little, then we grew and we grew -
Now we're no longer young and we're no longer new.

So out the back door we were thrown like the trash,
They reacted so quickly - why were they so rash?
We "jump on the children:, "don't come when they call",
We "bark when they leave us", climb over the wall.

We should have been neutered, we should have been spayed,
Now we suffer the consequence of the errors THEY made.
If only they'd trained us, if only we knew...
We'd have done what they asked us and worshiped them, too.
We were left in the backyard, or worse -let to roam-
Now we're tired and lonely and out of a home.
They dropped us off here and they kissed us good-bye...
"Maybe someone else will give you a try."

So now here we are, all confused and alone...
In a shelter with others who long for a home.
The kind workers come through with a meal and a pat,
with so many to care for, they can't stay to chat.
They move to the next kennel, giving each of us cheer...
We know that they wonder how long we'll be here.

We lay down to sleep and sweet dreams fill our heads..
Of a home filled with love and our own cozy beds.
Then we wake to see sad eyes, brimming with tears --
Our friends filled with emptiness, worry, and fear.

If you can't adopt us and there's no room at the Inn --
Could you help with the bills and fill our food bin?
We count on your kindness each day of the year --
Can you give more than hope to everyone here?
Please make a donation to pay for the heat...
And help get us something special to eat.
The shelter that cares for us wants us to live,
And more of us will, if more people will give."

Winter Brings Warnings Of Antifreeze Poisoning

blogmaster — Wed, 24 Dec 2008 02:48:00 GMT

With Christmas just days away it looks like many around the country will be getting their wish of waking up Christmas morning to a snowy winter wonderland. As I mentioned yesterday Old Man Winter is officially here and he's making sure his presence is known. Being the constantly on the move culture we are though, we are hardly going to let a few feet of snow stop us from jumping in our SUVs and plowing our way to the office. At this point many simply can't risk losing their jobs because they can't get to work on icy streets. What this means is that now more than ever people are making sure their trusty cars are able to survive the cold by keeping plenty of antifreeze. And while this may be good for those millions of cars on the road, antifreeze is a serious threat to kill thousands of animals each year.

In a discussion with reporters recently Stephanie Shain, the director of outreach for the Companion Animals section of the Humane Society of the U.S. expressed the need for pet owners to keep their pets away from antifreeze by saying "A large number of animals that ingest antifreeze do not recover. By some estimates, 10,000 companion animals die each year from antifreeze poisoning, making the toxin ethylene glycol a serious concern for pet guardians."

The major problem when it comes to antifreeze and pets is that it has a very sweet taste that attracts animals to it. This is caused by the ingredient Ethylene glycol. The chemical not only smells great to animals, but has a very sweet taste which has even been known to attract children as well. However all it takes is a couple of tablespoons and pets simply cannot survive the effects of the poison. If you are worried that your pet may run the risk of being exposed to antifreeze. The Humane Society lists the falling precautions that all pet owners should take:

Switch to a brand of antifreeze that contains propylene glycol instead of ethylene glycol.

Keep antifreeze sealed and away from animals; clean up spills completely, and fix any leaks immediately.

Don't allow your pet to wander unattended near driveways, roads, garages, or other places where she could come into contact with antifreeze.

Keep other products that contain ethylene glycol-like paint, cosmetics and novelty snow globes-out of the reach of animals, as well as any product of which you are not certain of the ingredients.

Monitor your pet for strange behavior. If you think she may have ingested antifreeze, take her to a veterinarian immediately.

The Weather Outside Is Frightful! Bring In Those Pets!

blogmaster — Mon, 22 Dec 2008 00:07:00 GMT

Have you seen this morning's headlines? No not the one about Paris Hilton's stolen jewelry! I'm talking about those regarding all the winter weather that is ransacking most of the country. This past weekend kicked off the official start to winter and boy did it ever make its presence known. According to one report on CNN.com "The National Weather Service said a blizzard warning for Iowa and parts of northern and northwestern Illinois would be in effect until 6 p.m. CT. Forecasters said wind chills of 20 below and 30 below zero were possible there and much of the rest of the Midwest, prompting wind chill advisories and warnings for the region into Monday morning" Needless to say this is a very dangerous situation for man and beast alike.

Traditionally dogs and cats have been considered mostly outdoor pets (especially larger dogs), but the Humane Society is telling pet lovers that when it comes to cold temps everyone needs to seek shelter. Not only can the animals tongue become stuck to numerous things outside, but the freezing temps will most definitely freeze their water bowl and leave them without anything to drink. Per the Humane Society's Tips On Dealing Winter Woes "Pets who spend a lot of time outdoors need more food in the winter because keeping warm depletes energy. Routinely check your pet's water dish to make certain the water is fresh and unfrozen. Use plastic food and water bowls rather than metal; when the temperature is low, your pet's tongue can stick and freeze to metal." Furthermore even if the temps in your area don't get below the freezing mark, a low wind-chill factor can also be deadly.

The dangers of leaving your pet out to fend for itself in the cold range from being exposed to salt and other chemicals used to melt the ice, to seeking shelter in recently parked vehicles, to simple not having enough food to keep them warm. However if you simply have no place to keep your pet during the winter months the organization recommends "If your dog is an outdoor dog, however, he/she must be protected by a dry, draft-free doghouse that is large enough to allow the dog to sit and lie down comfortably, but small enough to hold in his/her body heat. The floor should be raised a few inches off the ground and covered with cedar shavings or straw. The house should be turned to face away from the wind, and the doorway should be covered with waterproof burlap or heavy plastic."

Pierced Kitten Goes Up For Auction On Ebay!

blogmaster — Fri, 19 Dec 2008 18:50:00 GMT

Talk about a tough week, I feel like I’ve done a year’s worth of activities in the last four days alone. Thank goodness the holidays are finally here and we can all look for a little bit of down time. Don’t you worry though ye faithful followers, while I will be on a bit of a break from the rest of the world I’ll still be posting here on Scribbles N’ Bits everyday except for Christmas. To wrap things up for the week I want to share one of the most unusual stories to have hit the web in quite some time. I’m talking of course about the case of the Gothic Kittens, which found their way onto Ebay recently.

It’s a story that screams “KNOW WHO YOU CAN TRUST TO TAKE CARE OF YOUR PETS” straight from Pennsylania involving the possible sale of Snarly Monsters. According to reports from the The Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals authorities were notified early this week about a Snarly Monster that was being sold on the popular online auction site Ebay. The Snarly Monster as it turns out is just one of several tiny kittens which were being sold out of a converted basement slash pet grooming business. For $400 per kitten (or per Snarly Monster) the owners of the business were offering up gothic themed kittens featuring piercings on their ears, tail, and neck and came complete with a studded collar and submission lead to boot.

In response to this discovery the Animal Protection officer who responded to the scene told reporters “This is a first. It's unbelievable anybody would do this to kittens.” The officer went on to say that charges would be filed immediately against the owners of the business. In total 3 kittens, a dog, and another cat were saved from any further abuse. One can only hope their business license will also be captured safely as well.

The Dish On Keeping Your Pet's Food Bowl Clean

blogmaster — Thu, 18 Dec 2008 02:37:00 GMT

Just ask any teenager and married man in the country what they hate most about cleaning the kitchen and undoubtedly you’ll hear about how much they hate doing the dishes. This explains why the dishwasher is one of the most appreciated and loved appliances in the modern home. While we still hate to empty them, we have all grown to practically worship their invention. But is the dishwasher the best thing to use to clean all of your dishes? Specifically your pet’s dishes? Well the answer to this is yes and no.

Before I get to far let me start by recommending that if you are feeding your pet out of a ceramic or glass dish, do yourself and your pet a favor by switching to stainless steel. Not do ceramic/glass bowls chip and break; they are often hard to clean simply because bacteria tend to get in the cracks that eventually form. Now about this whole dishwasher thing; yes it is a good idea to wash your pet’s dishes in the dishwasher as long as you do a couple of things first. Number one, prewash the dish. The last thing you want is pet food residue covering the same plates you and your family eat off of everyday. Number two make sure you are using a disinfectant that is strong enough to kill the germs and other bacteria that tend to develop in the bottom of the bowl.

Regardless of whether you decide to prewash and place in the dishwasher or just do the deed the old fashioned way by hand, the important thing is that the water is hot and the detergent can get the job done. Finally before you place the dish back in its proper spot and refill with water/food, make sure it is completely dry. Pet food tends to absorb even the smallest amounts of moisture and this could leave a bad taste in your pet’s mouth.

Lost Your Pet? Issue An Amber Alert!

blogmaster — Wed, 17 Dec 2008 18:30:00 GMT

For those thousands of families across the country whose children have been returned thanks to one service’s quick actions, the Amber Alert system is literally a lifesaver. Now a new system similar to the one used to reunite countless families is being geared towards pet lovers everywhere. From founder and creator Dustin Sterlino comes FindToTo.Com a website that has helped find over 800 pets within the past year alone!

FindToTo.Com works very near the same way that the typical Amber Alert system being utilized by law enforcement agencies all across the country in that for a certain fee FindToTo promises to contact as many as 5,000 of your closest neighbors within minutes of your pet disappearing. Check out this list of packages available:

500 Neighbors $125
750 Neighbors $145
1250 Neighbors $185
1500 Neighbors $205
2500 Neighbors $285
5000 Neighbors $445

One of the best things about this site (other than their amazing success rate) is how quick and simple it is to use. The moment you realize your pet has been lost simply go to FindToTo, decide how many neighbors you want to alert, type in a description of your pet, and with 15 minutes 85% percent of your neighbors will be on the look out for your beloved pet. According to Dustin “Just the other week we had a kangaroo! We've had birds, we've had a goat, we've had a tortoise. So, we don't discriminate here at Findtoto.com. If you lose your pet, we want to help you get it home.” Oh and just in case your worried about whether or not Pet Amber Alerts are legal, FindToTo has gone the extra mile and received special permission to not make these types of calls and also have the ability to call those who are on the Do Not Call List!

Charlie Bollich And His Amazing Geese

blogmaster — Wed, 17 Dec 2008 04:05:00 GMT

If your morning drive into the office is anything like mine then it can easily described as uneventful to say the least. For those living around Beaumont Texas though, lately the morning drive has been anything but boring thanks to Charlie Bollich and his two pet geese. For the past several month 82-year-old Charlie can be seen every morning taking his two 8-month old geese on a walk through the surrounding neighborhoods with nothing but a smile and an old fishing rod to help keep the geese from wondering astray.

Charlie, a retired teacher, was there when the geese were hatched and have been with them virtually every second of the day since they first stuck their beaks out of their shells. The trio is so attached in fact that the geese consider Charlie to be their one and only Mamma/Pappa. According to Jim Armacost with the Lamar University biology department "Many birds exhibit this behavior. It's a period during their life when they are very young, still in the nest or immediately after they leave it. What happens is during this brief period they learn to associate themselves with whatever big moving object is closest to them. In most natural situations, that's their parents. They come to identify themselves as belonging to the same species. When animals are taken out of their nest and exposed to a different species of animal or a human, the animals become imprinted on that person and think of him or her as a parent. They can come to identify themselves as humans. Even as adults, they often will be more attracted toward humans than members of their own species."

While there may be a scientific reason to why the geese have taken to Charlie, to him they are simply just as much pets to him as any dog or cat would be to somebody else. Says" I know this. I'll never eat another goose. They're my buddies. I feel so close to them.” As for what they will eventually be named, for now Charlie is still contemplating that very decision. He had almost picked out the word Mao (meaning mean, cantankerous, and aggressive) until he learned that he was actually a she. Regardless of what they are called though, one thing is for sure Charlie and his newest flock of geese are a welcome surprise to everyone’s morning drive.

VP Biden's New Pup Has Tails Wagging!

blogmaster — Tue, 16 Dec 2008 02:48:00 GMT

In his now famous acceptance speech future U.S. President Obama touched the hearts of pet lovers all across the country by telling the world and his daughters “Sasha and Malia, I love you both more than you can imagine. And you have earned the new puppy that’s coming with us.” Well now it seems that the yet to be picked pup already has some stiff competition on the hill in the form of Vice President Joe Biden’s brand new German Sheppard. The 3-month-old male Sheppard was purchased a Philadelphia kennel owned by breeder Linda Brown.

Over the next several weeks the pup will be trained to act as presidential as possible and then will be delivered to Biden just in time for the inauguration. While many are excited about the choice, some are left feeling as if Biden missed a giant opportunity to support the thousands of U.S animal shelters who are struggling to stay afloat beyond the holidays.

For those who agree that Biden could have used his political clout to save thousands of abandoned pets and wish to support the cause on your own, here are a few tips on How To Adopt A Pet:

Decide on what kind of pet and analyze your situation

Go to the local pet shelter to look at the animals. Spend time walking the dogs or sitting with the cats. You don't need to adopt a pet that day.

Be prepared for questions. Most shelters will ask if the pet will be left alone and how you will

You will be asked if there are other pets in the house as well. You may want to bring one of your pets with you to see if the new pet will get along with your pets

There is usually an adoption fee which will start around $40. You may have other fees if the pet needs to be spayed or neutered.