Friday, February 27, 2009

New Dog, Old Tricks at HSSET

An article focusing on Max Mixson, the new shelter manager at Humane Society of Southeast Texas, raises some red flags:
When the board of the Humane Society of Southeast Texas (HSSET) advertised the job of shelter manager last year, the response was good with a number of apparently qualified applicants submitting their resumes. Nestled among the group, however, was a name that immediately popped out.
Max Mixson was the manager of the Petco store on Dowlen Road in Beaumont and had previously been a senior cruelty investigator at the Houston Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. In that capacity, he had been prominently featured in the hit cable series “Animal Cops: Houston,” where he made a definite impression on viewers in any number of high-profile cases.

Many remember Houston SPCA for their November 2008 secretive killing of 187 seized Pitbulls without a single evaluation before any of the owners had their day in court. I don't watch their TV show but their apparent zeal for Pitbull killing "made a definite impression" on me. A former shelter employee relates some specific incidents with Mr. Mixson at HSSET that have a ring of familiarity:
Brandi Furr, 26, was a shelter employee for most of 2008. She resigned in February because of unspecified family issues, but she said mainly due to her inability to deal with events taking place in the shelter. Described by people on both sides of the issue as “caring and compassionate” and “a good employee,” her story is worth exploring not only because it is deeply felt but also because it conveys how Mixson is perceived by the dissident faction at the Humane Society of Southeast Texas.

“I love that place,” said Furr. “I loved my job, but Max Mixson — you see him on ‘Animal Planet,’ but he’s a totally different person. He lies to the public.”

Furr said her problems with Mixson can be traced to a sharp difference in how individual dogs should be treated.

“Max does not work with the dogs, he doesn’t know anything about the dogs,” she said. “He’ll make rounds and decide which dogs will go down. I would be really mad about the euthanizing and I would let them know. I would talk to the board members and our employees and Max would get mad.”

Her allegations are not shy on details. In fact, Furr cites numerous instances involving specific animals.

“Max came in and his first day there, he went into the kennels — I was working in the kennel area — and he went up to a dog,” recounted Furr. “It wasn’t an aggressive dog; it was a hyper dog. (Max) went up to his cage and it started barking at him. I walked over to him and said ‘That dog’s not aggressive. It doesn’t know you.’ He said ‘Well, that’s the first dog on my list.’ That dog got put down; that was the first dog to get put down when he was there.”

According to Furr, scared or shy animals found no favor with the new shelter manager.

“Dogs would come in and they would be shy, this is my main thing,” she said. “Shy dogs are being put down; this never used to happen. They would come in from the street. They had a family once; we don’t know their whole story. They come in off the street not knowing where they’re at, not knowing to trust people, they hide under their bed and just shake. They wouldn’t bite, they’d let you pet them and stuff, but weren’t the dogs at the front of the cage barking."
[...]
Furr sounded near tears as she recalled the fate of a dog named Omega.

“He was a Lab and something else; he was a big, big dog,” she said. “He looked really mean, but he was not mean at all. He went on Channel 6 News as one of our pets of the week and so many people called wanting him. … but Max wanted to put it down because he thought it was mean. When you’d go to the cage, it would charge and jump and bark, but it was because he didn’t know Max. The environment those dogs are in, they’re going to act that way. But instead of Max giving him time, he made the decision to put the dog down. We had call after call after call to adopt that dog out, but he was already dead.”

The image of Mixson as a cold, unfeeling bureaucrat seems far-fetched — except in Furr’s telling of events inside the shelter.

“Another situation, somebody brought in a pit bull,” she said. “For some reason, I guess he doesn’t like pit bulls. I know they have a reputation, but still. A pit bull came in and instead of taking it to the sick room — I think somebody was in the sick room cleaning it — he took it into our break room and put it to sleep right there on the floor. It’s just crazy; I love my job, but I can’t work with a monster like him.”
[...]
Mixson acknowledged the pit bull was put down in the break room, but observed it was a closed room within the facility that was not in use at the time and that the dog’s owner had described it as “dangerous” when he brought it in. He noted that euthanasia is always a difficult decision for him, and that he believes every animal is worth saving if a good home could be found for them.

Right. But I guess you wouldn't know if a good home could be found if you kill the dog upon entry into the shelter based upon the owner's description. Newsflash: Sometimes dishonest people surrender dogs at shelters and lie about the reasons why. Every dog deserves a fair evaluation.

Oh and by the way, if you are so eager to kill an incoming dog that you can't wait for the euthanasia room to be cleaned and have to use the room designated for shelter employees to take breaks - that's some kinda problem you got there.

***

If you are a Houston area resident, you may wish to attend Nathan Winograd's seminar on March 28, 2009. See No Kill Houston for details.

Update on Seized Dogs in Gates Co, NC

Gates County, NC - Update on 13 dogs (11 Pitbulls, 2 Rottweilers) seized from Jackie Robinson Parker:

On Thursday, Jackie Robinson Parker appeared in a Gates County Court on one felony count of Dogfighting and 13 counts of Animal Cruelty.

Parker insists he does not own all 13 dogs, but Ginny Canady, of Chowan County Animal Control reminded Parker, "They all came from your property."

Parker responded, "I'm saying I don't know where they came from."

Canady allowed Parker to look at the dogs, and we asked him about the brown one that a veterinarian says has the scars and scabs that indicate dogfighting within the past two weeks.

Parker claims he doesn't know anything about it.


There is video at the link of the reporter pressing the issue and Mr. Parker reacting.  "The brown one" looks pretty beat up.  The Virginia Beach SPCA has brought in kibble and supplies for the seized dogs since the shelter where the dogs are being kept lacks resources:

The SPCA also brought heartworm tests, and four of the 13 dogs tested positive. The SPCA also took one of the dogs with a paralyzed leg back to Virginia Beach where his leg could be amputated on Saturday.

But then - Blue Needle Alert:

Veterinarian Thomas Mitchell doing relief work for PETA told us seven of the 13 dogs had poor body condition, and that the scars and scabs are consistent with dogfighting.

PETA's involvement in any way, shape or form with a dogfighting case is bad news.  PETA's stance on saving bust dogs is exactly in line with the record of the HSUS - that is, all must die.

Since the shelter appears to be in need of resources, now might be a good time for a Pitbull and/or Rottweiler rescue group to get involved and offer assistance.  It would be a good way to help the dogs and establish a relationship with local authorities in case the dogs become property of the county.

Letters, faxes and phone calls requesting the dogs receive individual evaluations by someone experienced with rescuing and rehoming bust dogs (NOT the HSUS or PETA obviously) - be polite, be respectful:

County Attorney

Phillip P. Godwin, Jr.

Godwin & Godwin Attorneys at Law

110 Court Street

Gatesville, NC 27938

(252) 357-0438

Sheriff Edward E. Webb
202 Court Street
P.O. Box 154
Gatesville, NC 27938
Phone: (252) 357-0210
Fax: (252) 357-4131

Gates County Board of Commissioners

Henry Jordan, Chairman

Sunbury District

21 Cooper Road

Sunbury, NC 27979

Phone: 465-8161



Wade H. Askew, Commissioner

Eure District

216 White Oak Road

Eure, NC 27935

(252) 357-0992



Graham L. Twine, Jr., Commissioner

Hobbsville District

1428 Carters Rd.
Hobbsville, NC 27946

(252) 221-8378



Kenneth Jernigan, Vice Chairman

Gates District

387 Gatlington Road

Gates, NC 27937

(252) 357-1007



E. Carlton Nickens, Commissioner

Gatesville District

95 NC 37 South

Gatesville, NC 27938

(252) 357-0313

Thursday, February 26, 2009

Nathan Winograd Stays on Point as HSUS Flails

This is one of those Winograd posts where I'm tempted to quote the whole thing but I will limit myself to some snippets:

In response to public outcry over their support and participation in the Wilkes County Massacre, in which the Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) first championed and then defended the mass slaughter of over 150 dogs and puppies, Wayne Pacelle of HSUS issued an interim new policy of favoring temperament testing of individual dogs seized in dog-fighting cases, and called for “a meeting of leading animal welfare organizations concerning dogs victimized by dog fighting.” That meeting has been called for April in Las Vegas. If history is any guide, there is little reason to celebrate as of yet.

To begin with, HSUS did not adopt a policy that all dogs will be temperament tested to determine if they are aggressive, only that they will recommend that they be, a policy which can be ignored. Second, there has been no discussion over what type of test will be used and how outcomes will be determined, a major flaw in the temperament testing process used by many shelters. Third, there is reason to believe that the outcome in Wilkes County would not have been any different even if this policy were already in place.


Yes, yes, yes.  What he said.  And:

And finally, is such a meeting really necessary? If Pacelle was willing to stand up for what’s right, rather than to defend his clearly wrong colleagues, he would not need the symposium. He would know what HSUS policy needs to be and he would ensure that it is followed.

I'm just a dog loving, pajama blogging, rabble rousing schmuck.  But even I don't need no stinkin' meeting to figger out that every shelter dog deserves a fair evaluation.  So why does a national fundraising group of "experts" like the HSUS need one?  If'n you don't know what the right thing to do is, you ain't gonna be learned it in a Las Vegas hotel is what Ima thinkin'.  

Wednesday, February 25, 2009

Bright Light in a Dark Place

Best Friends has a post up about Shelia Carlisle, one of the volunteers who cared for the Wilkes Co dogs.  She and her fellow vols did the best they could for those dogs, knowing there was little chance they'd be allowed to live, even if they survived the terrible conditions at the "undisclosed location" (warehouse) where they were hidden away.  Shelia gives us a glimpse into those conditions, the individual personalities of the dogs and the heartbreak of having them all killed:

The dogs were taken to an undisclosed location at the beginning of December and held for months as evidence in a warehouse. 

During this time dozens of puppies were born and Shelia and her colleagues helped care for all the dogs including the precious pups.
[...]

From the diseases spread from being in cramped, damp and dark accommodations to the fact that they were pit bulls from a known dog fighting breeder; the chances were slim that any of the animals would ever be able to live a happy life with a family that loved them. This reality did not deter Shelia and the others from their mission of giving them the love and support that they deserved.

[...]

It was a daunting task, as puppies were being born, they were quickly getting sick and some were dying even though they had the care of three different veterinarians. Shelia and three other people worked diligently to get the puppies as much individual attention and nurturing as possible . They were taking puppies to foster homes, while the other dogs at the warehouse were not allowed to leave the building. The dogs were not going outside – so much of the day consisted of cleaning and changing bedding and arranging the dog kennels to help alleviate as much stress as possible. 

“The protocol for handling the puppies was extremely inadequate: there was almost no natural light, no whelping boxes, and it was cold and damp. We had kerosene space heaters, but they would run out of fuel in the middle of the night. We were doing everything we could to make them comfortable, but it was so hard. We were cleaning constantly.”
[...]

There was Angel, a favorite of one of the hired handlers/security staff. Angel would sit with her paws up and rest her chin on them. She was so well behaved, she was just a sweet dog. 

As Shelia recounted the individual personalities of the dogs she started to choke up. The individual dogs have touched her heart in a way that the authorities never took the time to understand. 

“Once they learned to trust us they quickly came around, it was obvious these were good dogs. You could pick up a young dog or puppy and he would put his paws around your neck and would love to be held and hugged.”

[...]

“Knowing now that pit bull dogs are seized from dog fighters only with the intention of killing those dogs without even giving a single one of them a chance, sickens me.” Shelia sadly related. “The dogs are the victims and should be saved…not doomed.”

Doomed by the HSUS, to be precise.  Thank you to Shelia and the other volunteers who offered the dogs comfort amidst the misery.  The HSUS succeeded in their effort to have all the dogs, including 19 puppies still nursing from their dams, killed but they could not kill the integrity of compassionate volunteers who care about dogs.  There's more of us than there are of them.  HSUS and its barbaric Pitbull policy of seize and destroy is not representative of the attitudes and beliefs of real dog lovers in this country.  We are the true humane society and we want every bust dog to receive a fair evaluation by a qualified individual - obviously that would exclude any involvement from the HSUS, who have gone on record repeatedly, and as recently as last week, stating that all bust dogs must die.  The HSUS has way too much Pitbull blood on their hands at this point to be considered part of the solution to the problem they created.  Time to get out of the way HSUS and allow our humane society to help Pitbulls in need. 

H/T to EmilyS for the link about Ms. Carlisle.

Update on Vick

One of Michael Vick's homes is to be auctioned on March 10, as part of his bankruptcy proceedings. I guess he wants his finances all tidied up before he starts getting the paychecks with all the zeroes again:
Vick is scheduled to be released from federal custody July 20.

The suspended Atlanta Falcons quarterback has said in court papers that he expects to resume his NFL career after his release.
There is already lots of buzz over who might be the lucky team to snatch Vick up:
San Francisco coach Mike Singletary said Vick deserves the chance to play in the league, and believes he will be successful if he returns.

The Minnesota Vikings are reportedly interested in Vick as well. Vick may be transferred to a halfway house in Newport News, VA any day now.

As for the multi-million dollar home on the auction block:
Funari Realty, the company marketing the property, described it in an Internet listing as a "stunning custom home with priceless lake views." It features a majestic, two-story foyer with a double curved staircase. Other amenities include an in-home theater, a workout room with sauna, an elevator, a full bar, two outdoor fireplaces and a four-car garage.
No word on whether Vick had built a stunning, custom dog killing area on the property.

Monday, February 23, 2009

Recognition in Wilkes Co Case

In recognition of some who were involved in the Wilkes Co case...

PAWS DOWN:

From the Winston-Salem Journal:

John Goodwin, the manager of animal-fighting issues for The Humane Society of the United States, said yesterday that a judge will decide the fate of the dogs later. The Humane Society worked for three years on the investigation, in cooperation with Wilkes County Animal Control and the Wilkes County Sheriff's Office.

[...]

Goodwin said that the dogs have been bred for fighting and it would very difficult and expensive to re-train the dogs, even the puppies, so that they could be adopted.

You can learn more about Goodwin at Blue Dog State but he is not one of the HSUS peeps who testified at the hearing to decide the Wilkes Co dogs' fate. He did respond to inquiries from folks who were upset at the killings.

Winston-Salem Journal:

Wilson ordered the dogs destroyed yesterday after hearing from a prosecutor, the attorney for Wilkes County government, Wilkes County's animal-control director and two representatives from The Humane Society of the U.S., who all called for the dogs be euthanized.


Amanda Arrington, N.C. director for The Humane Society of the U.S., and Chris Schindler, the agency's deputy manager of animal-fighting law enforcement, both told the judge that these particular dogs have been bred for aggression. [emphasis added]


I wanted to check out the expertise these folks had on evaluating seized Pitbulls. I picked up a few bits of info from the HSUS, first on background:

Amanda Arrington is the North Carolina state director of The Humane Society United States. Prior to joining The HSUS in May 2008 she was an office manager.

Then a quote from Amanda Arrington:

"I am committed to making a difference for the animals."
So in summary, in case you blinked, the first HSUS "expert" to explain to the judge why 146 dogs, including pups still nursing from their dams, needed to die joined the HSUS 10 months ago after leaving her office manager job. Congratulations, you have made "a difference for the animals".

The HSUS on Chris Schindler:

Besides arresting illegal animal fighters and rescuing animals from cruel deaths in the fighting ring, Chris gained valuable insight into the motivations and mentality of dogfighters.

Apparently the phrase "rescuing animals from cruel deaths" means something different to HSUS than it does to me. Because killing unevaluated dogs, including puppies still nursing from their dams, which is what Schindler recommended to the judge, doesn't seem like "rescuing" to me. Further, the HSUS contends that Schindler has insight into dogfighters - I'll take them at their word on that one. But what about the dogs? Any valuable insight on the dogs about which he was providing the recommendation in court? Does kill-them-all fall under the "valuable insight" category?

Schindler teaches a course for law enforcement, animal control, etc on cruelty investigations. For a $50 - $75 fee, attendees can learn, among other things, about dogfighting cases and the "disposition of seized animals". I assume that chapter is pretty short: K-I-L-L.


PAWS UP:

Sheila Carlisle of Morganton said she has been helping to care for the grown pit bulls and many puppies, and that the dogs are adorable.

"I've fallen in love with them," she said. "I don't want to cause anybody any problems with the court system, but I want these dogs saved."

I have no idea if this person is a shelter volunteer or what - all I know is, I'm thankful these dogs had her to care for them in their final days in this world. Thank you.

And thank you to the rescue groups who tried to intervene on behalf of the dogs, including Best Friends.

And last but absolutely not least, thank you to all my fellow pajama bloggers who continue to shine a light on this dark secret of the "Humane" Society of the U.S. It's because of you folks that I do believe we are a humane society and we can affect change for the better.

Sunday, February 22, 2009

Dare Co, NC Moves Forward on Proposing BSL

Dare County initially had one set of problems, now they are compounding those by advancing the idea of breed specific legislation:
[Dare County Attorney Bobby] Outten said he is also looking into two types of breed-specific ordinances that have passed legal muster elsewhere. One would allow people to own dog breeds such as pit bulls only under certain restrictions; the other would outright ban them.

The proposals will be presented to the Board of Commissioners, probably at an April meeting, Outten said, and if the board decides to move forward on either one, a public hearing will be scheduled.

Adding insult to injury, the director of the Dare County Animal Shelter Denise Lambiotte is alerting the media to the myth(s) that wouldn't die!

Any dog left unmanaged can be dangerous, Lambiotte said.

"It's just that pits can do so much more damage," she said.

Pit bulls have powerful jaws that can lock when biting, and they are bred to attack, she said. Although they can be gentle to toddlers, the high-pitched voices of children and their sudden movements can set off pit bulls' predatory instincts, she said.

I look forward to Ms Lambiotte's presentation of the previously unknown, groundbreaking science to substantiate these claims. (She will be asked to substantiate these claims, right? I mean, the Board isn't just going to take a "Because I said so" on those claims, will they?)

Contact info - be polite, be respectful in your opposition to BSL:

County of Dare
PO Box 1000
Manteo NC 27954
(252) 475-5000

Dare Co Board of Commissioners e-mail contacts

Dare Co Attorney Bobby Outten: outten@co.dare.nc.us

Fat Cats at MSPCA Live On - Other Cats, Not So Much

The Boston Globe reports that the MSPCA may be cutting costs in the wrong areas:
As the nonprofit Massachusetts Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals prepares to close three animal shelters in reaction to a 25 percent loss in its endowment, advocates for animals are questioning the pay packages of the society's top administrators.
Four of the top five officials at the MSPCA make more than $200,000 annually, according to the organization's latest tax-exempt filing.
[...]
On Feb. 5, the MSPCA announced the closure of shelters in Brockton, Martha's Vineyard, and Springfield by the end of September and will downsize several programs and departments at its Boston office. MSPCA spokesman Brian Adams said a total of 46 positions would be eliminated. The three shelters slated to close cared for 11,000 animals last year. Four other MSPCA shelters, located in Boston, Methuen, on Cape Cod, and Nantucket, will remain open. Adams declined to reveal the annual operating budgets of any of the shelters.

Oh by all means, don't reveal any information not required by law. Follow the golden (parachute) rule: When confronted, hide.

Mr. Adams added this tidbit of justification:
"We have to attract the right talent, and we have to remain competitive. We can't remain competitive by asking people to work for free."

By gosh by golly, if only there could be some sort of compromise to be found somewhere between a $200k annual paycheck and working "for free". I hope science and technology someday advances us to the point where we could figure out that conundrum.

In the meantime, I'd like to point out that in fact, many animal lovers do "work for free" at animal shelters all over this country. They're called volunteers. I'm not saying shelters shouldn't pay staff, but I do think it's past time for many shelters to think outside the box. The days of ignoring the economic climate and maintaining the status quo are over. It's 2009, join us.

Saturday, February 21, 2009

Treats on the Internets

Causes and Action Alerts:

Best Friends is asking NC residents to contact lawmakers and urge them to redraft the state's 'Dangerous Dog' law.

B-More Bulldogs posts about a letter writing campaign to the HSUS regarding their Pitbull 'seize and destroy' policy

Online auction to benefit the massive English Shepherd rescue in Montana (bidding closes tonight!)

Rare Wildlife Showing Up Unannounced:

"Extinct" bird has picture taken then gets eaten in the Philippines

Jaguar captured, collared and released in AZ

Sneezes:

Monkey and Panda (each sold separately)

Pitbull Hero Helps Save 11 People

In MA this week:

A dog is being credited with helping to save eleven people in Southbridge from a fire in a multi-family home. Firefighters say the dog woke up the people living there. Sadly the heroic dog didn't make it out alive.

The fire broke out early Wednesday morning. An eleven month old Pitbull named Chaos helped save 11 people from the the building.

Fire crews from five different towns battled the blaze for 90 minutes before they put it out. Family and friends are hailing Chaos the dog as a hero.


If you are a MA resident, please contact your state House representative in support of S2624 which will prohibit breed specific legislation in the state.

Friday, February 20, 2009

More HSUS Nonsense Regarding the Wilkes Co Dogs

The HSUS response (signed in brown ink) to the killing of the Wilkes County dogs, currently making the rounds online:

Thank you for contacting us regarding a county judge’s decision in North Carolina to euthanize fighting dogs seized from the property of notorious dogfighting kingpin Ed Faron. We understand your concern about the judge’s order to euthanize the dogs, and it is always a tragic outcome when healthy animals meet such a fate. But the blame lies with Mr. Faron, and not with county officials or The Humane Society of the United States. While we may not endorse every action of the county, we are grateful to them for working with The HSUS to bust a man who is responsible for an enormous amount of cruelty to dogs, and to bring him to justice.

No organization has done more to attack and harm the dogfighting industry than The HSUS. We’ve probably invested more in combating dogfighting than all other humane groups combined, and to great effect. We are principally responsible for the strong state and federal laws that make the practice a felony and ban possession and sale of fighting animals, and we have trained thousands of law enforcement personnel on investigating and raiding fighting operations. What’s more, it is our training, investigations, and rewards programs that are resulting in the arrest of countless dogfighters and the seizure of thousands of fighting dogs (which are, according to the dogfighters, an asset they lose upon seizure).

We are involved in dogfighting busts on almost a weekly basis, and the handling of Mr. Faron’s dogs raises the same questions that confound us constantly. With approximately 600,000 pit bulls killed in shelters each year, why should fighting dogs, which obviously require more resources to manage and which pose an obvious threat to other animals, get placed in favor of other equally deserving pit bulls and other breeds slated for euthanasia? In a local jurisdiction that has perhaps hundreds of other pit bulls waiting for loving homes, why not save them in favor of fighting dogs that will cost far more to handle on a per dog basis? How do we solve the larger pit bull problem in the nation, since we have an epidemic of dogfighters and others breeding them for aggression and for uses other than as companions?

We conducted a long-term investigation that led to the arrest of Mr. Faron and the seizure of his fighting dogs. He is considered one of the “Godfathers” of dogfighting, and it was our goal to put him out of business, just as it is our goal to target other industry leaders, in order to prevent thousands of dogs for use in fighting pits. Had it not been for our investigation, most of his dogs would have suffered immensely in a fighting pit in the weeks and months ahead. And who knows how many other dogs he would have bred to face this same fate.

It is now an HSUS policy to recommend an evaluation of all fighting dogs. In this case, The HSUS offered to pay for an additional professional evaluator to assess the dogs, even though we were skeptical that these dogs could be safely rehabilitated. The county did not take us up on that offer. Without an affirmative professional evaluation to indicate that the dogs could be safely placed in a new setting, we could not recommend adoption of these dogs who had been bred for generations for their instinct to kill.

While separate evaluations were not done, it is safe to say Faron’s dogs have been bred to produce animals with an unstoppable desire to fight, even in the face of extreme pain and fear. Professional dogfighters typically “cull” the dogs that don’t exhibit gameness or aggression, and only keep and breed the ones that exhibit the desired traits. For proof of that, we can refer to Faron himself, from his book about dogfighting:

“His face had only just healed from that fight with the Wreckers’ dog and he got his nose chewed half off again, that night.”

“The gamest dog I ever saw in my life was King David. At ten minutes, his right leg was broken. At twenty-three minutes, his left leg was broken. At thirty-seven he scratched on stumps, and at forty-eight minutes when he scratched he scratched down one wall and down the other ….until he got to Beau again.””

“ I mean, he broke muzzles, crushed skulls- we saw him bite dogs in the chest and their chest would literally collapse. That was Beau…”

Game-bred dogs pose a risk to other dogs not just because of training, but more importantly because of breeding for aggressive characteristics. Even no-kill shelters typically recommend euthanasia of obviously dangerous dogs.

These fighting dogs do not compare with the dogs from amateur “street fighters,” who typically take any, random pit bull and try and force them to fight. If pit bulls have not been bred for generations to have a “fight crazy” instinct, even if they have been exposed to dogfighting, they have a chance of being rehabilitated. This is why a substantial number of Michael Vick’s dogs were candidates for rehabilitation, after the court ordered Vick to pay $1 million as a set-aside to provide care and retraining for the dogs.

Once game-bred dogs are confiscated from a fighting situation, there are very few good options. There are no sanctuaries that exist for the thousands of game-bred dogs confiscated each year, and as a nation, there are hundreds of thousands of pit bulls awaiting adoptions in shelters every year. The resources that would be required to confine or rehabilitate fighting dogs could save many more dogs in shelters every year. So, in that sense, it is not a zero-sum game when it comes to euthanasia; it is a negative-sum game, and an inordinate focus on these few pit bulls would result in more euthanasia of other dogs. And if you impose upon rural counties – where most fighting busts occur – the burden of long-term holding of fighting pit bulls, then they may decline to intervene in criminal fighting cases, allowing the dogfighters to continue to operate.

There are tough choices to be made, and the only morally clear act is to attack the dogfighters where they live. We are the only national organization that has an entire unit devoted to this work on a national scale. That’s what we’ll continue to do.


A few points:

1. "We understand your concern about the judge’s order to euthanize the dogs, and it is always a tragic outcome when healthy animals meet such a fate. But the blame lies with Mr. Faron, and not with county officials or The Humane Society of the United States."

*sounds buzzer* Mr. Faron did not advocate for the killing of the seized dogs - the HSUS did. Their testimony led to the judge's ruling.

According to a ruling Monday by Judge Ed Wilson Jr. of Superior Court, state law defines dogs as dangerous if they are involved in a dog-fighting operation, and a county ordinance requires that dangerous dogs be destroyed.

The raid was the result of a three-year investigation by the Humane Society of the United States, in cooperation with Wilkes County Animal Control and the Wilkes County Sheriff's Office. Representatives of the Humane Society told the judge that the dogs should be destroyed, because they had been bred for generations to be aggressive.

And:
Judge Ed Wilson entered the order after hearing arguments from Wilkes County officials, from the prosecutor and from The Humane Society of the U.S. that the dogs are dangerous and would pose a risk if adopted into homes.
Therefore, I'll assign blame for the destruction of those dogs as I see fit - at the feet of the HSUS.

2. "With approximately 600,000 pit bulls killed in shelters each year, why should fighting dogs, which obviously require more resources to manage and which pose an obvious threat to other animals, get placed in favor of other equally deserving pit bulls and other breeds slated for euthanasia?"

*raises hand and waves violently* [I SO know this one! I hope he calls on me.] No one is placing any dogs "in favor of" any other dogs and why is it the HSUS gets to decide who's more or less worthy of a chance at life in bust dog cases? I know this message is not getting through to you HSUS, but not everyone agrees with your assertions as stated above. Some people in fact, think it's malarkey. If YOU feel a bust dog is not a good match for YOU, then don't adopt one. But by the same token, don't advocate to get them all killed before someone else, who might feel differently than you about bust dogs, has a chance to rescue them. If there is the desire out there among rescue groups to save these dogs, what business is it of yours how those rescue groups spend their resources? Perhaps you are concerned that you will be proven wrong again, like you were about the Vick dogs. Speaking of which -

3. "While separate evaluations were not done, it is safe to say Faron’s dogs have been bred to produce animals with an unstoppable desire to fight, even in the face of extreme pain and fear. Professional dogfighters typically “cull” the dogs that don’t exhibit gameness or aggression, and only keep and breed the ones that exhibit the desired traits."

This is the same argument used by HSUS when advocating for the killing of the Vick dogs:
Pacelle said, "If the current set of facts is not disputed, that they were killing off the less aggressive animals and keeping alive the best, most aggressive fighters, then it does not make sense to keep these animals alive."

And that argument turned out to be wrong. And incorrect. And really quite off.

4. "There are tough choices to be made, and the only morally clear act is to attack the dogfighters where they live. We are the only national organization that has an entire unit devoted to this work on a national scale. That’s what we’ll continue to do."

Fine. Bring it. You keep seizing Pitbulls and advocating for their destruction and we'll keep the spotlight on your hypocrisy machine. It's the only "morally clear act".

What's So Great About Tossing Puppies in a Ditch?

Nothing, as far as the puppy dumping goes, but a lot as to how the story was reported here:

Suzanne Kratz said she didn't think much about seeing a man throw something out of the back of a red pickup truck, until she realized that his street litter was actually a litter of puppies.

[...]

"They feel like instead of bringing it to a shelter where they believe they'll get killed, they think dumping the animal off might be give the animal a chance," Thompson said.

[...]

"We know that we're all faced with hard times right now, and you know this person, maybe they were laid off from their job and couldn't afford to feed them, but there are plenty of people willing to foster," Kratz said.

This happened in Montgomery County, Texas which is close to Harris County, where 187 Pitbulls were "rescued" and then secretly killed by the rescuers late last year.  So one can imagine how local folks get the idea that turning dogs in to the animal shelter might be a death sentence.  I'm happy to see that mentioned in this article.  Shelters - take note!  Your community is aware of what you do and your actions affect how people handle their pets.

In addition, I'm glad the rescuer doesn't outright condemn the person who tossed the pups.  Yeah it's a horrible deed but she extends a compassionate hand of understanding while offering a little education.  That's the way to do it.

P.S. - Watch the video of the pups - they're dang cute!  (brief commercial at beginning of vid) 

Coalition Urges HSUS to Revise Policy on Dogs Seized in Fighting Busts

The "couple of individuals on the internet" just won't go away:

“We are disheartened and shocked that HSUS, a leader in the animal welfare community, would testify in court for the automatic destruction of puppies and dogs, who had not been given the opportunity to be evaluated as individuals, based on this policy. The Michael Vick dogs have proven how antiquated this approach is,” said Ledy VanKavage, an attorney with Best Friends Animal Society.

In 2006 HSUS advocated that all of the dogs from the Michael Vick dog fighting case be put down for the same reasons they used when recommending the killing of the Wilkes County pit bulls. In that case a federal court appointed a Special Master to oversee the evaluation of Vick’s dogs, all of which were adults. Many of the Vick dogs are now in adoptive homes, and at least two of the so-called “aggressive fighting dogs” are therapy dogs that visit hospitals to cheer up ailing patients.

“The coalition members and their supporters are urging HSUS to revaluate this policy and apply a more progressive approach that reflects the lessons learned by the animal welfare groups in the coalition, as well as other organizations that work directly with dogs,” VanKavage said.


Yeah, baby.

Thursday, February 19, 2009

11 Pitbulls, 2 Rottweilers Seized in NC - UPDATED

*ding* Round Two in NC:

Tuesday, Gates County Sheriff Edward Webb seized 13 dogs under court order.

[...]

Thursday morning, WAVY.com was there when the dog owner, Jackie Parker, turned himself over to the Sheriff.

[...]

Parker appeared in court Thursday on one felony count of Dogfighting, 13 misdemeanor counts of Animal Cruelty and three counts of Not Properly Disposing of Animal Carcuses.

[...]

WAVY.com visited an animal shelter in Chowan County to see the dogs. Many have scars, appear weak from malnutrition, and one appears to have a broken leg.


I don't know what the intention is regarding the seized dogs yet but I know what the outcome often is.

Letters, faxes and phone calls requesting the dogs not be killed - be polite, be respectful:

County Attorney

Phillip P. Godwin, Jr.

Godwin & Godwin Attorneys at Law

110 Court Street

Gatesville, NC 27938

(252) 357-0438

Sheriff Edward E. Webb
202 Court Street
P.O. Box 154
Gatesville, NC 27938
Phone: (252) 357-0210
Fax: (252) 357-4131

Gates County Board of Commissioners

Henry Jordan, Chairman

Sunbury District

21 Cooper Road

Sunbury, NC 27979

Phone: 465-8161



Wade H. Askew, Commissioner

Eure District

216 White Oak Road

Eure, NC 27935

(252) 357-0992



Graham L. Twine, Jr., Commissioner

Hobbsville District

1428 Carters Rd.
Hobbsville, NC 27946

(252) 221-8378



Kenneth Jernigan, Vice Chairman

Gates District

387 Gatlington Road

Gates, NC 27937

(252) 357-1007



E. Carlton Nickens, Commissioner

Gatesville District

95 NC 37 South

Gatesville, NC 27938

(252) 357-0313


Will post more when I have it. So far, no word on the HSUS being involved which is good news. Law enforcement was apparently serving a civil warrant when they happened upon the suspected dogfighting operation so it doesn't sound like this is one of those HSUS orchestrated busts. In the meantime, the suspect is presumed innocent and in my opinion, should retain ownership of his dogs unless he decides to voluntarily sign them over to the County.

Update: A bit more info, from last night:

“Actually, it made me very sick to my stomach to have to deal with what we saw,” said Sheriff Edward Webb. “We actually found some dogs that had been, appeared to have been, burned. We found, actually, an old barn with blood on the walls and so forth. We found down, had carpet in it with blood stains where they had been fighting ‘em in almost like a pit.”

Also from last night, some specifics on the dogs:
Now, all thirteen dogs are fighting to stay alive at the Tri-county animal shelter. Animal control Officer Lacey Wilkins says most have scratches and cuts all over their bodies. One dog was so malnourished that it doesn't have enough skin on his back.

"These red marks... are actually from his hip bones protruding out of his back," Wilkins says."They were living off peanut butter mixed with dog food. Peanut butter is not enough to sustain a dog."

Wilkins says the dogs are just happy now to have a roof over their head and access to clean water and food.
[...]
The Sheriff's Office says they will probably stay at the shelter for the next six to eight months, even though the shelter is at capacity.

Animal control says it's up to veterinarians to decide if these dogs can be saved or if they are too vicious and will have to be put down.

Pants on Fire

John Goodwin of the HSUS on why the Wilkes Co dogs had to die even though the Vick dogs proved that bust dogs could be evaluated and placed with rescue groups accordingly:

Those particular fighting dogs in Wilkes County, NC were very, very different than the Vick dogs. Whereas Michael Vick was a pro football player that fought dogs as a hobby, the breeder of these dogs was a globally recognized professional dogfighter. Vick was not a good breeder, and he lost most of his fights. His dogs were a poor representation of true fighting dogs.

John Goodwin, meet Wayne Pacelle, your boss at the HSUS.  He was on record quite a bit when the Vick dogs were seized, calling for their destruction:

Pacelle said, "If the current set of facts is not disputed, that they were killing off the less aggressive animals and keeping alive the best, most aggressive fighters, then it does not make sense to keep these animals alive."

Indeed, that set of facts was not disputed.  Not even by Mr. Goodwin himself:

John Goodwin of the Humane Society said the manner in which losing or unwilling dogs were killed was especially troubling.

Pacelle made the media rounds, advocating for the death of the Vick dogs:

"Officials from our organization have examined some of these dogs and, generally speaking, they are some of the most aggressively trained pit bulls in the country," Wayne Pacelle, the president and chief executive of the Humane Society of the United States, said in a telephone interview Tuesday. "Hundreds of thousands of less-violent pit bulls, who are better candidates to be rehabilitated, are being put down. The fate of these dogs will be up to the government, but we have recommended to them, and believe, they will be eventually put down."

Pacelle said the Humane Society normally advocated that fighting dogs be put down shortly after being seized.

So which is it HSUS?  Was Vick some wannabe dog fighter whose dogs just didn't have it in them to fight?  Or were his dogs violent killing machines programmed to destroy?  It seems like you want to characterize them as the latter when trying to justify why they should be killed but as the former when you've been proven wrong and want to justify why another group of bust dogs should be killed.

Some things just don't go together.  Like Humane and Society when talking about the need for immediate, secretive killing of bust dogs while simultaneously using them to raise cash.  Every dog deserves a fair evaluation.

You Can't Fool Mother Nature (or Mother Nurture)

John Goodwin of the HSUS on why the Wilkes Co Pitbulls, including 19 newborn pups, needed to be summarily killed:

Goodwin said that the dogs have been bred for fighting and it would very difficult and expensive to re-train the dogs, even the puppies, so that they could be adopted.

When I consider this, along with the plethora of similar generalized statements made by Goodwin and the HSUS regarding bust dogs, I realize this is in fact rilly big news that's slipped under the radar all this time. So listen up:

Stockdog breeders, good news for you! All you have to do to breed a good working pup is to take two decent stockdogs and breed them together. Bam - you've got a guaran-damn-teed litter of solid working pups. It's easy as pie! In fact, unless you have extensive training and financial resources, it will be just about impossible to get any of these pups NOT to work stock so they could just live as someone's pet. It's been bred into them and that's that. If they're bred for work, they're a-gonna work and there ain't no stoppin' 'em. Now you know.

Same goes for you breeders of service dogs, bird dogs, working terriers - even breeders of companion dogs. This is great news for Chihuahua breeders - just take 2 Chihuahuas that don't bite and have been trained to have good house manners, breed them together and you'll get a litter of sweet, well mannered pet pups that will be trustworthy around kids for life!

It's just so simple, now that we know the innate personality traits and the learned behaviors of the parents are absolutely transferred - by magic like - to the pups. And those traits are so dyed-in-the-fur that you couldn't realistically expect to mold them - even if'n ya tries.

To think, all these years breeders have been laboring under the many "misleading claims" that each dog is an individual and the behavioral traits of the parents are not necessarily 100% reflective of the temperament you'll find in the pups. How much time has been wasted focusing on environment, socialization, early experiences, training and the human-canine bond in order to shape desired behavior in dogs. Many of us were under the impression that behavior and genetics were complex issues with all sorts of potential variables involved. I blame the internet - it teached us wrong!

Wednesday, February 18, 2009

"These dogs would most certainly kill any other dog they could get to."

Here's John Goodwin's (HSUS 'dogfighting czar' *blech*) response to the Wilkes County Pitbull killings.  It's being posted around the net as pet lovers are still reeling from the events of yesterday:

Those particular fighting dogs in Wilkes County, NC were very, very different than the Vick dogs. Whereas Michael Vick was a pro football player that fought dogs as a hobby, the breeder of these dogs was a globally recognized professional dogfighter. Vick was not a good breeder, and he lost most of his fights. His dogs were a poor representation of true fighting dogs. With the Wilkes County dogs, even the puppies as young as 8 weeks of age where attacking each other and drawing blood. We had to buy new cages to separate litters of young pups.

With the Vick dogs it cost nearly $1 million to “rehab” 49 dogs, and still half of them are in solitary kennel runs, unable to socialize with other dogs. In this case there were 127 dogs, and they are far more aggressive than the Vick dogs. 

The “misleading claims” have come from a couple of individuals that never saw these dogs, and choose to throw stones on the internet. I saw these dogs, and in fact handled many of them while they were being evaluated. These dogs would most certainly kill any other dog they could get to. 

It is very sad that people are also missing the bigger story, that our work has shut down one of the top breeders of fighting dogs in the United States. Dogfighters are seeing their hero’s go to prison. This is having an effect, and many dogfighters are leaving that world behind as they recognize the cost of doing business is too great. HSUS is the only organization in the United States that has an entire campaign that works full time on animal fighting issues. 

I support pit bull rescue, but there has to be a group that goes farther and hits at the root of the problem. That is what we are doing by putting leaders in the dogfighting criminal underworld out of business. 

Lastly, Wilkes County euthanizes 3,000 healthy, adoptable animals a year simply because there are not enough good homes opening their doors to these needy animals. I find it disturbing that the groups clamoring for media attention over these 127 dogs raise no fuss, and offer no assistance, for the other 3,000 dogs put down in that county each year. 

Sincerely,


John Goodwin
Manager, Animal Fighting Issues
The Humane Society of the United States
2100 L St. NW
Washington, DC 20037
301-258-3156


I'm apparently one of those "couple of individuals" making "misleading claims" and throwing stones on the internet.  Boo hoo, doncha just hate that Freedom of Speech thingy?  While I take issue with like, every single sentence in this letter, I'm going to focus on this one part:

I support pit bull rescue, but there has to be a group that goes farther and hits at the root of the problem. 

Number One:  With 'supporters' like you, pitbull rescue don't need no enemies, you know what I'm saying?  Could you go 'support' something else please?  Preferably something already dead.  Number Two:  HSUS is the 'group that goes farther'?  Really?  HSUS is the group that advocates for killing all bust dogs without individual evaluations by qualified behaviorists.  Is that getting to 'the root of the problem'?  To me, that's just compounding the problem by misleading the public and killing unevaluated dogs.  Every dog deserves a fair evaluation.  

For more "couple of individuals" and their "misleading claims", visit Lassie, Get Help

Tuesday, February 17, 2009

Wilkes County NC Kills Puppies, Adult Dogs

From the Winston-Salem Journal:
Wilkes County Animal Control began this morning to euthanize more than 127 pit bulls associated with Wildside Kennels, an operation that bred fighting dogs, according to county officials. The county was carrying out a judge's order from Monday.
[...]
The dogs should all be euthanized by the end of today, county officials said. The exact number of dogs is still unclear because several litters of puppies had been born since the raid.

Barring an unexpected about-face by Wilkes Co, I'm assuming all the dogs are dead now. I'm assuming they killed all the adult dogs, who had no known history of biting, without so much as one evaluation by a qualified behaviorist. I'm assuming all the baby puppies, born in the past couple months, were taken from their dams, and killed. And I'm assuming all the bigger pups, who were seized in the original raid, who never got to grow into their big paws or figure out their floppy ears or have someone tell them to sit their waggy butt down if they want a cookie - I'm assuming they've all been killed too.

Since I'm speculating, I'll go ahead and guess that the HSUS folks are clinking their glasses tonight as they celebrate their latest success - this one currently being exhibited at the Wilkes County landfill. Humane FAIL.

Added:  Bringing up from the comment by EmilyS:  http://www2.journalnow.com/content/2009/feb/17/pit-bulls-destroyed/  So apparently 19 of the dogs killed were newborn pups, still nursing from their dams.  At least now we have a number.

Action Alert for Seized Dogs in Wilkes County, NC

Ok this is admittedly a Hail Mary with no timeouts left and 6 seconds on the clock but hey, what the heck. Sometimes those things actually work! If you have been following the case of the Wilkes County Pitbulls on this blog, you know I've been asking you to write letters requesting authorities to consider turning the dogs over to rescue groups. Well now that a judge has ordered all seized dogs and pups killed, the need for action is urgent. The dogs may already be dead, I don't know and haven't been able to find out, but just in case they aren't, please fax or phone the contacts below and voice your concern for the dogs. Remind authorities that Best Friends and others have offered to accept responsibility for the dogs and that they have a proven track record with bust dogs. Remind them that the state of NC allows for the adoption of dogs seized in fight cases. Let them know you've been following this case and you are hoping to hear an update about the dogs. Be polite and respectful. Do it now.

Wilkes County Board of Commissioners
110 North Street
Wilkesboro, NC 28697
Phone: 336-651-7346

Wilkes County Attorney Tony Triplett
Vannoy, Colvard, Triplett & Vannoy
922 C Street
P.O. Box 1388
North Wilkesboro, NC 28659
Phone: 336-667-7201
Fax: 336-838-7250
E-mail: ttriplett@vannoylaw.com

District Attorney Fred Bauer
500 Courthouse Drive Suite 2022
Wilkesboro, NC 28697
Phone: 336-667-6361 or 667-2994

HSUS and the Ongoing Campaign to Kill "Rescued" Bust Dogs

HSUS in their own words:

The results of dogfighting are heartbreaking, and it can be difficult to reject the pleas of potential adopters who have fallen in love with a seemingly friendly ex-fighter; to prevent such heartbreak, sheltered fighting dogs should be kept out of sight of the public.

Yes, hide the dogs - don't let the community know that there are potentially adoptable dogs sitting on your shelter's Death Row, waiting for their turn with the catch pole and the blue needle.

Unfortunately, euthanasia is the only responsible option for almost every animal rescued from this brutal bloodsport.

Almost every animal? Gorsh HSUS, don't be so modest - you work to get every single animal "rescued" from dogfighting operations killed. Like you did in Louisiana. Like you did yesterday in North Carolina. Oh but before the dogs are killed, take a photo for the website so you can ask for money to help protect them from abuse.

Once dogs have been bred and trained to fight, they may become dangerous at any time in the future, killing or injuring another dog, cat, or even human. The cruel training inflicted upon these animals makes them unpredictable—and unsuitable for placement into new homes.

Understandably, dog lovers who aren't aware of the sad facts of dogfighting may want to make up for the dogs' tragic existence by taking them in and providing them with a better life. The best way to counteract public pressure from these well-meaning folks is to do a little educating. Help people understand that while these animals may seem friendly, all too often they are ticking time bombs.

Oh yes, please educate me HSUS. For example, what should have been done with the dogs seized from Michael Vick?

The Humane Society of the United States and People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals recommended that Mr. Vick’s dogs be euthanized, but many animal rescue organizations urged the prosecutors to let the dogs live.

So who was right? Have any of the ticking time bombs gone off yet? How many cancer patients has Leo mauled so far? Now HSUS, don't you feel ashamed?

HSUS, we are a compassionate nation of people who love pets and reserve euthanasia as a last resort for animals who are hopelessly suffering or deemed a danger to people by a qualified individual. Join us.

Update: News Release calling for common sense in the Wilkes Co, NC case.

Monday, February 16, 2009

Third Defendant in NC Pleads Guilty, All Dogs Ordered Killed

I posted on February 14 that the only thing keeping the 127 seized Pitbulls (plus newborn litters of pups) alive was that they were being held as evidence in the case of the third defendant in the dogfighting prosecution. Today, that case was closed:
Amanda Grace Lunsford, 25, the third and final defendant in the case, pleaded guilty this morning to a misdemeanor count of cruelty to animals.

Authorities wasted no time in seeking a judge's order to kill all the dogs:
A Superior Court judge this morning ordered that 127 pit bulls seized in a raid of a breeder of fighting dogs should be euthanized.

Who to thank for this travesty?
Judge Ed Wilson entered the order after hearing arguments from Wilkes County officials, from the prosecutor and from The Humane Society of the U.S. that the dogs are dangerous and would pose a risk if adopted into homes. [emphasis=mine]
I don't know anyone who donates money to Wilkes County authorities but I do know that lots of people donate to the HSUS, thinking they are helping animals. Ain't that a damn shame?

I would cry, if I was a cryer. I'm not so I'll just say a prayer instead:

As long as space remains,
As long as sentient beings remain,
Until then, may I too remain,
And dispel the miseries of the world.

State of NC Allows for Adoption of Seized Dogs

The 127 Pitbulls seized in Wilkes County, NC (and their many newborn pups) do not have to be killed by law even though John Goodwin of the HSUS says so. And even though Wilkes Animal Control Director Junior Simmons says so.

The state of North Carolina says different. Scroll down to nearly the bottom of this page to Article 6. Animal Subject to Illegal Treatment, (d):

In the event of forfeiture, the animal shelter may determine whether the animal is suitable for adoption and whether adoption can be arranged for the animal. The animal may not be adopted by the defendant or by any person residing in the defendant's household. If the adopted animal is a dog used for fighting, the animal shelter shall notify any persons adopting the dog of the liability provisions for owners of dangerous dogs under Article 1A of Chapter 67 of the General Statutes. [emphasis=mine]

Best Friends still has an offer on the table for Wilkes County authorities:

Ledy VanKavage, Best Friends Senior Legal Analyst, has been in touch with North Carolina County Attorney Tony Triplett and Animal Control Director, Junior Simmons, to offer help and discuss alternatives to euthanasia. Best Friends is willing to send a certified applied behaviorist out to evaluate the dogs and puppies. Of those who do well, Best Friends will fund their sterilization and transportation to responsible rescue groups.
They've also got an action item:
Please contact each of the following individuals and respectfully ask them to accept Best Friends' offer to arrange for behavior evaluations of the dogs, assistance with spay/neuter surgeries and placement of dogs that pass a stringent behavior evaluation.

Wilkes County Board of Commissioners
110 North Street
Wilkesboro, NC 28697
Phone: 336-651-7346

Wilkes County Attorney Tony Triplett
Vannoy, Colvard, Triplett & Vannoy
922 C Street
P.O. Box 1388
North Wilkesboro, NC 28659
Phone: 336-667-7201
Fax: 336-838-7250
E-mail: ttriplett@vannoylaw.com

District Attorney Tom Horner
500 Courthouse Drive Suite 2022
Wilkesboro, NC 28697
Phone: 336-667-6361or 667-2994
If you are a Wilkes County resident, please attend the Board of Commissioners meeting on Tuesday, February 17 at 6:30 pm. Voice your concern, politely and respectfully, for the seized dogs and mention the NC state law allowing for adoption of these dogs. Remind the Board that every dog deserves a fair evaluation.

Write, fax, call. If you need assistance with composing a letter, let me know. I will help.

H/T BAD-RAP.

Sunday, February 15, 2009

Recipe: Big Breakfast Bars


I adapted this recipe from one I came across in Ann Martin's book Protect Your Pet. The original recipe can be found here.

Breakfast Bars

8 eggs
3/4 Cup olive oil
2/3 Cup honey
1/2 Cup molasses (blackstrap, if you can get it)
2 Cups milk
29 oz can pumpkin
12 Cups oats
2 Cups whole wheat flour
1 Cup flax meal
1 Cup wheat germ

In a gigantic-humongous bowl, whisk the eggs and add in the remaining wet ingredients, mixing well with super-duper spoon. Add dry ingredients and mix thoroughly. Wipe sweat from brow and then get the contents of the bowl onto two greased cookie sheets (of the large-marge variety). Bake at 325 degrees F for 45 minutes. Run through with pizza cutter to create desired sized bars and return to oven (with heat off) for several hours or overnight. Can be served as a breakfast, maybe with a glop of yogurt and/or a hard boiled egg, or used as a treat.

Yield: A lot

Name That Animal

Saturday, February 14, 2009

Happy Valentine's Day to All Creatures, Great and Small





Guilty Pleas in NC Dogfighting Case, Action Needed to Save Dogs

The owner of the 127 Pitbulls seized in Wilkes County, NC in December did not meet a January 15 deadline to pay a $53,000 ransom boarding fee imposed by authorities and therefore forfeited rights to his dogs. At that point, the dogs became the property of the county:

If the dogs' owner is found guilty, the dogs that were seized will be euthanized, county officials said.

The owner and his son have now pleaded guilty to felony dogfighting charges. Both have been sentenced but a third defendant in the case (Amanda Lunsford) is still waiting for a hearing. It is possibly the only thing keeping the seized dogs (and the many litters of pups born since) alive at this point:
Any decision about what to do with the dogs will be made after Ms. Lunsford’s case is resolved, Wilkes County Attorney Tony Triplett said this morning.

Best Friends still has an offer on the table for Wilkes County authorities:
Ledy VanKavage, Best Friends Senior Legal Analyst, has been in touch with North Carolina County Attorney Tony Triplett and Animal Control Director, Junior Simmons, to offer help and discuss alternatives to euthanasia. Best Friends is willing to send a certified applied behaviorist out to evaluate the dogs and puppies. Of those who do well, Best Friends will fund their sterilization and transportation to responsible rescue groups.
They've also got an action item:
Please contact each of the following individuals and respectfully ask them to accept Best Friends' offer to arrange for behavior evaluations of the dogs, assistance with spay/neuter surgeries and placement of dogs that pass a stringent behavior evaluation.

Wilkes County Board of Commissioners
110 North Street
Wilkesboro, NC 28697
Phone: 336-651-7346

Wilkes County Attorney Tony Triplett
Vannoy, Colvard, Triplett & Vannoy
922 C Street
P.O. Box 1388
North Wilkesboro, NC 28659
Phone: 336-667-7201
Fax: 336-838-7250
E-mail: ttriplett@vannoylaw.com

District Attorney Tom Horner
500 Courthouse Drive Suite 2022
Wilkesboro, NC 28697
Phone: 336-667-6361or 667-2994
If you are a Wilkes County resident, please attend the Board of Commissioners meeting on Tuesday, February 17 at 6:30 pm. Voice your concern, politely and respectfully, for the seized dogs and regarding the law requiring them to be killed. Remind the Board that every dog deserves a fair evaluation.

Friday, February 13, 2009

SC No Kill Shelter Goes the Extra Mile for Seniors

I just love this. Old dogs are my favorite. (And I don't mind old cats or humans either.) That's why I was so excited to learn about a program at the Animal Protection League (APL) in Hopkins, SC called Senior Pets for Senior People. The idea is to help in getting senior pets out of the shelter (they are often passed over for younger animals) and into homes with pet loving senior citizens who might be hesitant to take on a pet due to age or health considerations. Studies have shown many physical and emotional health benefits for senior citizens who own pets. Here's how the program works:
  • Anyone over 62 years old who is interested in having a companion dog or cat can contact the APL and explain what type of pet he or she is looking for. The APL will carefully screen available older pets for a good match and bring the pet out to meet the senior at his or her convenience and WITH NO OBLIGATION.

  • If the senior and the pet are happy with each other, the senior can adopt the pet (in essence, entering into a long-term foster agreement) AT NO CHARGE! (In some instances, the APL will even pay for the pet's food and medical care for individuals who are financially unable to do so.)

  • The APL will appoint a liaison to stay in contact with the senior and to provide assistance as needed. This liaison will provide assistance getting the pet to a veterinarian, if need be, and will monitor the relationship to ensure that both the senior and the pet continue to benefit from the relationship.

  • If, one day, the senior can no longer care for the animal, the APL will take the cat or dog back and work to place the pet in another loving home. In fact, the APL will resume care of the pet if at any time, for any reason, the relationship ceases to be mutually beneficial.
This is what I call a win-win situation! Adopted pets come with an "In Case of Emergency" poster with instructions for how to care for the pet: "If I am incapacitated or compromised in such a way that I cannot care for my pet, please immediately notify or return my pet to Animal Protection League".

Here are a couple pets currently available in the Seniors for Seniors program at the APL:


From the APL newsletter:
Ozzie is approximately 13 years old and has lived at the APL shelter since 1999—an entire decade! He doesn't show his age, though, and loves running and playing in the exercise area. Ozzie ignores cats and other dogs, but he gets a little nervous during thunderstorms. If you know of anyone looking for a faithful companion, please tell him or her about sweet Ozzie.

From the APL newsletter:
Caris is a beautiful Bengal cat who loves to chase laser pointers! We think that she hasn't been adopted yet because she becomes very shy when faced with a new environment. Caris needs a patient person to give her lots of time to adjust to a new home. She doesn't like being picked up but loves attention from the shelter staff.
I don't like being picked up either Caris. All paws crossed that these two find loving homes for their twilight years.

Related:

Pet Ownership and the Elderly
Seniors Who Adopt Senior Pets Often Stay in Better Shape
Dog Owners Visit the Doctor Less
How Owning a Dog or Cat Can Reduce Stress

Thursday, February 12, 2009

Is Purebred Dog Breeding a Major Welfare Concern?

Terrierman has a post on a new report, commissioned by the RSPCA, on the health of pedigree dogs in the UK. Links to the summary report and the full 76 page report are at the end. Excerpt:
To date, breeding practices and efforts by breed societies and kennel clubs have been ineffective at protecting the welfare of many breeds of domestic dog. Therefore, to safeguard the future of pedigree dogs, changes in breeding practice are urgently required, and for some breeds more drastic measures will be needed.
Worth reading when you have some quiet time to devote to it.

Fid-o-ler on the Roof
























Apparently they get a lot of snow over there in North Dakota:

"Just when you think you've seen it all," [animal control officer] Schnell laughed later Tuesday.

Apparently, the snow in the back yard is high enough to where the dog can basically walk right up onto the roof, Schnell said.




Tuesday, February 10, 2009

Treats on the Internets

The No Kill Nation has a nice piece up called "The Power of One":

Sometimes it just takes one person to stand up and say something. In Union County South Carolina that one person is Robert Small.

When Mr. Small went to the local shelter to adopt a dog for his family, what he saw caused him to be so upset he left … only to come back with his camera.

Read the rest and watch the video Mr. Small shot.

***

Check out the rookie cop in Chicago.

***

Lassie, Get Help posts about a prestigious award PETA has received from the American Language Association.

***

Loch Ness Monster or dead flatfish? You decide.

***

The Poodle and Dog Blog shares news of a positive ID made on the (in)famous shoplifting dog.

Monday, February 9, 2009

Dinner at Chez Dog


A simple meal of leftover salad fixins (put through the food processor), rice and chicken. Add oil and calcium, serve quickly before too much dog drool pools on floor.

More on Palin's Aerial Wolf Assault

In response to peeps who like to run their mouths when they don't know what they're talkin' 'bout, I've got a few tidbits to add on the Ashley Judd vid I posted yesterday.

1.  Ashley Judd is not a PETA spokesman as far as I know.  She does do a lot of charity work but to my knowledge, she is not on board with PETA.  That said, I don't follow celebrity PETA endorsers all that closely so can't say I know every star PETA has roped into their foolishness.  For the sake of argument, let me say this:  Even if Ashley Judd is affiliated with PETA, I am supporting her position on the wolf aerial assault issue.  Yes I detest PETA's pet extermination agenda and I do not support them in any way.  That doesn't mean I disagree with every single thing they do.  For example, they offer spay-neuter services to those owners who want it but that doesn't mean I have to oppose spay-neuter just because PETA offers it.  I like to think I'm a leetle smarter than that.  I can strongly disagree with PETA's motivation for offering those services but still support the practice in a general sense.

2.  The video posted is Ashley Judd speaking on behalf of the Defenders of Wildlife Action Fund.  To my knowledge, that group is not affiliated with PETA but my same view applies:  I support their position on the aerial wolf assault, even if I may not support their positions on other issues.  I don't know much about them to be honest so I may think they're the nazz overall or maybe they suck overall - not making time to investigate right now.  

They do have a political disclaimer on their website which states "Not authorized by any candidate or candidate's committee" and I take them at their word unless it is proven otherwise.

3.  The reason the wolves are being killed is not to prevent them from starving to death due to overpopulation.  Quite the opposite actually.  The wolves eat big game such as elk, moose and caribou which attract wealthy hunters from out of state and brings in revenue for Alaska.  In order to have more big game available for rich people to spend their money hunting in Alaska, the state government decided to take out some of the natural predators - wolves.  At least that's the idea they're touting.  Many remain unconvinced (article from Sept. 2008):

A raft of scientists has argued that Palin has provided little evidence that the current program of systematically killing wolves, estimated at a population of 7,000 to 11,000, will result in more moose for hunters. State estimates of moose populations have come under scrutiny. Some wildlife biologists say predator control advocates don't even understand what wolves eat.

[...]

Last year, 172 scientists signed a letter to Palin, expressing concern about the lack of science behind the state's wolf-killing operation. According to the scientists, state officials set population objectives for moose and caribou based on "unattainable, unsustainable historically high populations." As a result, the "inadequately designed predator control programs" threatened the long-term health of both the ungulate and wolf populations. The scientists concluded with a plea to Palin to consider the conservation of wolves and bears "on an equal basis with the goal of producing more ungulates for hunters." 

Apparently Palin wasn't fazed. Earlier this year she introduced state legislation that would further divorce the predator-control program from science. The legislation would transfer authority over the program from the state Department of Fish and Game to Alaska's Board of Game, whose members are appointed by, well, Palin. Even some hunters were astounded by her power play. 

The legislation would give Palin's board "more leeway without any scientific input to do whatever the hell they basically wanted," Mark Richards, co-chair of Alaska Backcountry Hunters and Anglers, wrote in an e-mail. The legislation is currently stalled in the Alaska state Senate. 

4.  Lastly, I say again - This is not hunting.  It violates the reasonable hunter's ethic of fair chase.  I am not against hunting but this ain't that.

I Copied Offa SmartDogs' Paper

A little "beet poetry" comprised of search terms resulting in visits to YesBiscuit! this weekend:

yes bisquit blog
nrc aafco
beneful peanut butter
orijen cat death paralysis
beets ok for dogs
solid gold dog food for pitbull

free sheltered dogs
Ernestine Haselden asks for ban
pitbull news 2009
peta against pit bull

1300 hundred products affected by bad peanuts
what happened to houston
what are my constitutional rights of owning a pet
is soy meal in dog food ok?
blogspot de biscuit


H/T to SmartDogs for the idea.

Sunday, February 8, 2009

This is Not Hunting

Apparently some people don't get that.

(Warning: graphic content)

Update:  Additional post on the subject here.

Dare Co, NC Alert and New Article on Vick Dogs

Dare County, NC considers BSL:

The recent murder of a pet by two pit bulls has drawn the attention of both state and county leaders.

The dogs responsible for the attack were euthanized on Jan. 30 after the owner gave permission to the Dare County SPCA to do so.

Following the Jan. 19 attack on Jazz, a labrador belonging to Mark and Diane Kent of Poor Ridge Road in Kitty Hawk, the animals were returned to their owner, Nikki Canady, pending a $25 fine per dog. Denise Lambiotte, director of the animal shelter, noted the county's ordinances did not give authority to the SPCA to either keep or euthanize the animals.

Kitty Hawk Police Department issued a leash law violation to Canady the day of the attack, but also was unable to detain the animals. Police Chief David Ward, concerned about the danger posed to the residential neighborhood, worked with District Attorney Frank Parrish to have the dogs seized after their initial release. The motion was granted Jan. 23, and the SPCA planned to impound the dogs until Canady's court date March 24.

The initial lack of legal authority to hold the dogs outraged the community and caused concerns for lawmakers, including NC Sen. Pro Tem Marc Basnight of Manteo.

[...]
The incident also sparked discussion during the Dare County Board of Commissioners Feb. 2 meeting. During public comment, several responses were heard, all in favor of strengthening the county's dog ordinances.
[...]
"This was a home invasion and a murder, I'm for banning this type of dog and others like it," said Chairman Warren Judge.
[...]
The ordinances will be discussed at the boards Feb. 16 meeting.
Am I the only one thinking that dogs don't commit "murder"? What up with the inflammatory language Dare County? This case involves dog-dog aggression, failure of owners to properly confine their dogs and failure to enforce existing confinement laws. If Dare County is unable or unwilling to enforce the pet laws already on the books, why would we want to toss more laws on to the pile? And bad laws at that. Stop BSL has all the contact info so you can take action.

***

The AP has a nice follow up article on how the Vick dogs at Best Friends are doing today:

Half the Vick dogs adapted well enough to other dogs that they’re allowed to have playmates.

The others are being slowly introduced to other dogs.

They’re all being prepared for their Canine Good Citizen tests — a 10-step exam that measures things such as the ability to mingle with other dogs, deal with strangers and behave on a leash.

[...]

When Vick’s dogs were first seized, the courts received advice from People for Ethical Treatment of Animals and other humane societies, which said the animals should be euthanized because their chances of living normal lives outside a shelter or sanctuary were minimal.
Oops. Here, let me wipe that egg substitute product off your face PETA.