Pet Dish for March 3, 2009

In this issue:

• Purr-fection
• Get unleashed
• Rally for the Walk
  
• Black beauties
• More treats
• Scratching posts

Purr-fection you can’t put a price on
When Vincent was up for adoption, he was that cat that caught everyone’s attention, but not for some of the reasons you might expect. He turned heads because he looked so odd. Missing a chunk of his left ear and his whole right eye, he was a pretty sorry sight. But his photo tugged at the heartstrings of Catherine, who had been resisting her partner Kerry’s requests for another cat. But once Catherine saw Vincent, she worried that he would never be adopted and would be homeless. “We have a home. He needs a home,” Catherine said.

Vincent had come into the Animal Humane Society as a stray. Doctors took care of his injuries from what may have been a fight with another stray. At first, he was very frightened and hid behind the couch at Catherine and Kerry’s house. But eventually he got more comfortable and even started playing with their other cat, Ellie. Now the two happily chase each other up and down the stairs.

Vincent is now one of the family, cuddling and showing affection by sitting on the back of the couch, placing a paw on a shoulder and head-butting. “I tell him every day how sweet and beautiful he is. I can’t imagine the home without him,” Kerry says. “I just think he was meant to come into my life. I can’t wait to get home and see him every day. I hope that others will consider cats that may not look totally normal. Vincent has been an absolute delight.”

(Photo Credit: Christina Gandolfo / gandolphoto.com)

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Come out to the fair
This Saturday, come on out to the Golden Valley facility to hear more about the Walk for Animals at the first-ever Walk for Animal Fair. You’ll receive your Walk Kit, meet fellow walkers and hear all their tips about the ways they have raised funds for AHS, you’ll learn how to set up your own personal web pages (no more door-knocking to raise pledges!!) and get the first glimpse at this year’s premiums that you can earn! Join us on Saturday, March 7 from 1 -3 p.m. in the Auditorium in Golden Valley.  (learn more...)

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Get unleashed at summer camp!
Registration is now open for Unleashed, Animal Humane Society’s camp for kids who love animals. This animal-themed summer day camp for kids in grades 3-12 helps unleash the inner veterinarian, wildlife advocate and animal-loving imagination in every kid. We believe that putting the “Humane” in “Society” starts early and lasts a lifetime. Unleashed is one way of introducing kids to the wonders and wows of the natural world.  Register online or call (763) 489-2220 for registration materials.


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Black is beautiful
Each year, thousands of animals come through the doors of Animal Humane Society looking for a new home. You’ll frequently see black Labrador retriever mixes. The Lab is one of the most popular dog breeds in Minnesota and according to the American Kennel Club, the most popular dog breed in the nation. Considering the Labrador retriever originated in our neighbor to the north, it’s not surprising folks here love the Lab. From our friends in Canada comes one of the most social, versatile and people-pleasing dogs around.

Unfortunately, the popularity of the black Lab also means our kennels at Animal Humane Society are often filled with many dogs that look very similar. When potential adopters see five black dogs in a row and then spot a yellow or red coat canine, the unique color might catch their attention but Cindy Johnson, AHS director of customer service, urges people to remember that “hair color is superficial, it’s the personality of a dog that is important. Labs are great family dogs and are popular for a reason.”

Staff at AHS call it the “black dog syndrome” but black cats are often overlooked in the cat adoption centers too. Centuries of negative associations have made it tough for black cats of today. Superstitions surrounding these beautiful creatures have permeated throughout various cultures from being linked with witchcraft, illness and poverty to just getting a bad rap in the media. Think Halloween and you get the picture. While the black cat of today still suffers from the myths and legends of the past, Animal Humane Society wants to remind you that these felines are fantastic.

“Some of the most beautiful cats I have ever seen are black. Their shiny, silky fur and green or golden eyes are stunning,” says Cindy. “Often these gorgeous pets sit a little longer in shelters because we always have a vast selection of cats available for adoption and like the black dog, go unnoticed.”

Notice a couple of our beautiful black cats and canines now available for adoption:

Meet Buck, a six year old Black Lab who is ready for to meet his new people.
http://www.animalhumanesociety.org/adoption/detail?id=356293

Meet Abe, a handsome cat with a purr-fect personality
http://www.animalhumanesociety.org/adoption/detail?id=354443

(Photo Credit: Jacki Vance-Kuss)

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Wildlife Rehabilitation Training
Are you interested in becoming a wildlife rehabilitation volunteer? This workshop provides basic training for the rehabilitation and handling of Minnesota's wildlife and addresses current wildlife topics and the natural history of the wild animals in our environment. CE credits are available. (read more…)

 

Funny bones, precious moments and animal antics
Funny bones, precious moments and animal antics
Does your wild and crazy pet leave you in stitches? Does s/he have an unusual habit that leaves you scratching your head? Capture those and other precious moments on video and e-mail them to petdish@animalhumanesociety.org and we’ll post them to our Facebook page.

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Walk this way
If your business or organization is interested in reaching pet owners and folks who love animals join us at the Walk for Animals on Saturday, May 2. Consider a booth in our “Flealess Market” or another spot on the grounds. You’ll meet the nicest people! For more information contact Amy Rosenthal at (763) 489-2251 or visit us online.

 

 

Become an Animal Advocate
Can you imagine your pet(s) not having enough food and water or a warm, safe place to sleep? What if they weren’t given the opportunity to exercise or experience everyday interactions with humans? For many dogs and cats across the state of Minnesota those circumstances are the only ones they know. Join us in our efforts to help these animals.


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