OUR CAT, FAZELNUT

OUR CAT, FAZELNUT
FAZELNUT

FAZELNUT & REBECCA

FAZELNUT & REBECCA
My daughter, Rebecca,& Fazelnut, the cat she rescued

IF YOU WEREN'T ALLOWED TO HAVE A PET IN YOUR NEW APARTMENT, WOULD YOU:

Strange bedfellows

Strange bedfellows
Preacher and Seahorse: Rebecca's pets

Wednesday, November 16, 2011

jliebmannsmith@gmail.com has shared: Death row pets in New York

Please help by adopting a pet.
Death row pets in New York
Source: examiner.com

  New York -- Every night the plea goes out.  Can you save this cat?  Please adopt this dog.  The pictures are heart wrenching, showing scar
 
jliebmannsmith@gmail.com sent this using ShareThis.

Monday, August 22, 2011

SFGate: S.F. cat adoption center opens inside pet store

Go for it!
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This article was sent to you by someone who found it on SFGate.
The original article can be found on SFGate.com here:
http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?file=/c/a/2011/08/21/BAN11KPUN2.DTL
---------------------------------------------------------------------
Sunday, August 21, 2011 (SF Chronicle)
S.F. cat adoption center opens inside pet store
Justin Berton, Chronicle Staff Writer


At the Pet Food Express on Market Street Saturday, the harsh realities of
a down-turned economy met the fuzzy truth of cats in need of a home.
San Francisco Animal Care and Control opened it first-ever cat adoption
center located inside a privately owned retail store. The ribbon cutting
turned into a ribbon pouncing by the playful feline afforded the honor.
The new center, which drew an appearance from Mayor Ed Lee and earned an
official proclamation from the city, is a novel attempt to deal with San
Francisco's increasing number of cats put up for adoption, and the
flatlining of the number of people willing to adopt them.
The trouble is a well-documented ripple effect of the recession, said
Animal Care and Control Director Rebecca Katz. From 2008 to 2009, the
first year of the economic funk, the city's pet shelter population jumped
18 percent, a sudden increase of about 425 animals that were considered
"owner surrenders" - folks who couldn't afford the vet bills or even the
pet food.
"We had one woman in our lobby crying as she gave up her cat," Katz said.
"She told her, 'I have to live in my car; it's not fair that you have to.'
"
Even as lost jobs and foreclosures have increased the shelter's pet
numbers, the hard times also have made it less likely people will take on
a new pet, Katz said.
For the first time in recent memory, Katz said, the shelter went two weeks
in August without adopting out a single adult cat.
Mike Murray, director of community relations for Pet Express, said it
could be that potential adopters suffer from "shelter fear" - the
undesirable thought of heading into a city shelter, where desperate stray
dogs and cats bark and screech for attention.
"In times like these, shelters bear the brunt of the load," Murray said.
"It's where they get the surrenders, the strays. It's kind of the final
stop."
The idea of opening an adoption center in the Market Street outlet - the
company's highest-traffic spot in the Bay Area - was an attempt to bring
the animals to the people, Katz said.
On Saturday afternoon, the shiny center was stocked with 12 cats, and
interest was strong.
Customer Yolanda Curtis, a Diamond Heights resident, was shopping for dog
food and gave the center a good look and a quick walkthrough.
"I'm a dog person myself," she said. "But my sister - she could use a
companion. ... Maybe I'll send her here." Adoption Center
Pet Food Express and the San Francisco Animal Care & Control Cat Adoption
Center is at 1975 Market St. The center's hours are 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Monday through Sunday. This weekend, adoption fees are discounted to $50.
E-mail Justin Berton at jberton@sfchronicle.com. ----------------------------------------------------------------------
Copyright 2011 SF Chronicle

Thursday, August 18, 2011

Fwd: FYI for your blog



---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Price Steve <sdprice510@mac.com>
Date: Thu, Aug 18, 2011 at 6:48 AM
Subject: FYI for your blog
To: Liebmann-Smith Joan <JLiebmannSmith@gmail.com>


Top 10 Household Items Toxic to Dogs

Posted on June 28, 2011 by PetFlow



We all have a mental list of dangerous items to keep away from Fido, such as chocolate, antifreeze and household cleaning items. But did you know that there are many items that can be harmful (even fatal) to your dog that you may have not even known about? We've compiled a list of lesser-known household items that are harmful to dogs. Please feel free to share any others you think of with us!

Hey ma - I'm not feeling too good - I probably shouldn't have been sniffing around those ferns earlier!

  1. Fruits and Vegetables
Onions, garlic, mushrooms, grapes, raisins and avocados are just a few of the fruits and veggies that are harmful to Fido. In general, it is the pits, seeds and leaves of these items that can cause stomach irritation – thus your safest bet is to play it safe and avoid these altogether. DiamondPaws.com offers a list of fruits and veggies that are safe for your pup. 

2. Yeast Dough / Unbaked Bread
Dogs have mastered the art of begging, and there's nothing that makes a dog's mouth water more than freshly baked items. Although you may be tempted to toss Fido a bit of raw dough when baking, steer clear –unbaked bread or any dough containing yeast can be potentially deadly to your pup, as it can expand in his digestive track and cause a fatal blockage. If Fido has a bit of a sweet tooth, try sweet treats made specifically for dogs, such as 
Bocce Bakery's PB n J All Natural and Organic Dog Biscuits.    

Don't forget to take advantage of our FREE SHIPPINGon any $59 order promotion! Just visithttp://www.PetFlow.com and use code BLOG at checkout!

3. Alcohol and Alcohol-Based Products 
Sadly, we've all heard stories of careless guys feeding their dog beer. Although it may seem funny to some, an intoxicated dog is no laughing matter. Alcohol and alcohol-based products can cause your pup to experience serious intoxication, leading to coma or death – and the smaller the dog, the higher the risk.

4. Macadamia Nuts
Most of us are unaware just how toxic macadamia nuts are to dogs. As few as six nuts can cause your pup to develop a reaction called macadamia nut toxicosis. Within 12 hours of digesting the nuts, dogs may experience depression, inability to walk, paralysis of hind quarters, elevated heart rate, and muscle tremors. If the macadamia nuts are digested with chocolate, the combination can be deadly. 

Ooof – that ice cream gave me a bellyache!

 5.  Xylitol 
Xylitol is an artificial sweetener found in gum, candy, bakery items, toothpaste and diet foods. Ingestion of this sweetener can cause an increase in insulin levels within your pup, leading to a drastic blood sugar drop and potential liver failure.


6. Flowers and Plants
Dogs are curious creatures by nature and love nothing more than to poke around the great outdoors. If you let Fido loose in your backyard and keep a garden, take note – there is a laundry list of plants and flowers that can be toxic to your pup, including lilies, aloe, and ferns. The ASPCA offers up a comprehensive list of plants to avoid.

7. Fat Trimmings, Bones and Bone-In Meats
Although feeding your dog meat scraps and bones may seem like the most natural thing in the world, it can actually be extremely harmful to your pup. The fat trimmed off of meat can cause pancreatitis in dogs, and small pieces of bone may obstruct digestive system and cause lacerations. In other words? Stick to 
bones and treats made specifically for dogs – and save your table scraps for the trash can. 

 8. Milk
Nothing attracts a dog like a big bowl of ice cream. Unfortunately, milk and other dairy-based products can cause stomach upset in your pup. Additionally, dairy products have been known to be the impetus for other canine food allergies. If you're looking for a healthy and safe treat that will cool Fido down on a hot summer day, most dogs love ice cubes. If your dog isn't a fan, most chain grocery stores now carry frozen treats made specifically for pups.  

9. Medicines
If your dog has an ailment, it is important to use treatments designed for dogs only. Human medications such as  Acetaminophen (Tylenol),  Ibuprofen, Cold and Flu Medicine can be potentially fatal to your pup, as it causes damage to the liver and red blood cells.

10. Pest Control Products 
Pest control products such as rat poison, insect repellant, moth balls and pesticides can be extremely 
dangerous – even deadly – to your pets. Fortunately, there are now many companies specializing in non-toxic methods that are safe for pets and children!

What to Do if Your Pet Has Ingested a Toxin

Gather Information
Be sure to have all information ready for your veterinarian, including the type of toxin (it's helpful to bring the toxin's container along) and your pet's basic information (breed, weight, etc.). It is also helpful to collect anything that your pet may have chewed or vomited in a sealable plastic bag.

Contact Your Veterinarian or the ASPCA's Animal Poison Control Center
Be prepared – always keep your veterinarian's phone number as well as the phone number of the closest 24 hour emergency vet clinic close at hand. If your pet is not exhibiting any symptoms just yet or there is not a 24-hour vet hospital nearby, you may want to call the poison control center. Note that a $65 consultation fee may apply.





--
Joan Liebmann-Smith, Ph.D.
340 E. 64th Street 14F
New York, NY 10065
Tel: (212) 787-6333
cell: 646-246-1952
www.babybodysigns.com
www.bodysignsbook.com

Wednesday, August 3, 2011

Animal Health SmartBrief article from: JLiebmannsmith@gmail.com

Joan (JLiebmannsmith@gmail.com) thought you might be interested in checking out an excerpt from Animal Health SmartBrief. Sign up for your free subscription today.



Designed specifically for veterinarians, Animal Health SmartBrief is a FREE daily e-mail newsletter. It provides the latest news that matters to animal health professionals, including veterinary medicine updates, animal welfare and pet product news, best business practices, and regulatory updates.

SIGN UP TODAY to receive Animal Health SmartBrief.

 

Peacock escapes from Central Park Zoo, takes up residence on high-rise window
  CNN (8/2)

Monday, July 18, 2011

Animal Health SmartBrief article from: JLiebmannsmith@gmail.com

joan (JLiebmannsmith@gmail.com) thought you might be interested in checking out an excerpt from Animal Health SmartBrief. Sign up for your free subscription today.



Designed specifically for veterinarians, Animal Health SmartBrief is a FREE daily e-mail newsletter. It provides the latest news that matters to animal health professionals, including veterinary medicine updates, animal welfare and pet product news, best business practices, and regulatory updates.

SIGN UP TODAY to receive Animal Health SmartBrief.

 

NYC pet store is praised for banning intoxicated puppy purchases
Le Petite Puppy in New York City's Greenwich Village neighborhood drew praise and thanks last week for banning the sale of puppies to inebriated customers, one of several city pet stores to institute the rule in the name of animal safety.  DNAInfo.com (7/15)

Friday, July 15, 2011

Animal Health SmartBrief article from: JLiebmannsmith@gmail.com

Joan (JLiebmannsmith@gmail.com) thought you might be interested in checking out an excerpt from Animal Health SmartBrief. Sign up for your free subscription today.



Designed specifically for veterinarians, Animal Health SmartBrief is a FREE daily e-mail newsletter. It provides the latest news that matters to animal health professionals, including veterinary medicine updates, animal welfare and pet product news, best business practices, and regulatory updates.

SIGN UP TODAY to receive Animal Health SmartBrief.

 

Dog park safety
Dog parks offer great benefits to your dog, but they also present some risks to you and your pet. Have fun, but stay safe and healthy. View AVMA's resources on dog park safety.  

Saturday, May 28, 2011

Animal Health SmartBrief article from: JLiebmannsmith@gmail.com

Joan (JLiebmannsmith@gmail.com) thought you might be interested in checking out an excerpt from Animal Health SmartBrief. Sign up for your free subscription today.



Designed specifically for veterinarians, Animal Health SmartBrief is a FREE daily e-mail newsletter. It provides the latest news that matters to animal health professionals, including veterinary medicine updates, animal welfare and pet product news, best business practices, and regulatory updates.

SIGN UP TODAY to receive Animal Health SmartBrief.

 

Expert offers advice on keeping dogs happy
Keeping dogs psychologically healthy requires a great deal of responsibility from canine owners, says animal behaviorist John Bradshaw and author of a book titled "Dog Sense: How the New Science of Dog Behavior Can Make You a Better Friend to Your Pet." Among other things, Bradshaw says dogs should never be physically reprimanded, and should be trained to cope with periods of separation from their owner.  National Public Radio (5/26)

Monday, May 16, 2011

Animal Health SmartBrief article from: jliebmannsmith@gmail.com

Joan (jliebmannsmith@gmail.com) thought you might be interested in checking out an excerpt from Animal Health SmartBrief. Sign up for your free subscription today.



Designed specifically for veterinarians, Animal Health SmartBrief is a FREE daily e-mail newsletter. It provides the latest news that matters to animal health professionals, including veterinary medicine updates, animal welfare and pet product news, best business practices, and regulatory updates.

SIGN UP TODAY to receive Animal Health SmartBrief.

 

Playtime can improve feline behavior
Cat-behavior experts say regular and interactive playtime can reduce feline boredom and misbehavior. "Cats need activity and stimulation and opportunities to be challenged," said cat-behavior consultant Pam Johnson-Bennett, who offers inexpensive ideas such as tossing around a paper bag with a pingpong ball inside it.  USA TODAY (5/15)

Friday, April 29, 2011

Animal Health SmartBrief article from: JLiebmannsmith@gmail.com

joan (JLiebmannsmith@gmail.com) thought you might be interested in checking out an excerpt from Animal Health SmartBrief. Sign up for your free subscription today.



Designed specifically for veterinarians, Animal Health SmartBrief is a FREE daily e-mail newsletter. It provides the latest news that matters to animal health professionals, including veterinary medicine updates, animal welfare and pet product news, best business practices, and regulatory updates.

SIGN UP TODAY to receive Animal Health SmartBrief.

 

New ethics journal calls use of the word "pet" insulting
Calling our cats, dogs and other domestic animals pets is derogatory and may affect the way they're treated in society, say the editors of the new Journal of Animal Ethics. The publication says pets should be called "companion animals," owners ought to be referred to as "human carers" and wildlife should be called "free-living."  Telegraph (London) (4/28)

Thursday, April 28, 2011

NYTimes.com: Civility on the Way Out? Add Dogs to That List

The New York Times E-mail This
This page was sent to you by:  jliebmann@aol.com

FASHION & STYLE   | April 28, 2011
Civility on the Way Out? Add Dogs to That List
By BOB MORRIS
High-end hounds and pampered pooches seem to be acting out everywhere these days, in doorman buildings, the gated homes of Los Angeles or on manicured Hamptons lawns.

Tree of Life - May 27
Starring Brad Pitt &
Sean Penn. Directed by
Terrence Malick.

Watch the trailer now!


 

Sunday, April 17, 2011

Peeing on City Trees

APRIL 15, 2011, 7:39 AM

Complaint Box | Dog Urine

P. C. Vey
Complaint Box Got a Gripe?
Get a grip. Send your rant — no more than 500 words, please — to:metropolitan@nytimes.com.
As the new gardener for the recently renovated Washington Square Park, I never suspected that I would be spending such a large part of my day chasing people with dogs away from plant beds. As a dog owner myself, I find it almost impossible to tell something as cute as a French bulldog puppy what to do. But it is absolutely necessary if we want our greenery to thrive.
I use the phrase “Excuse me, but did you know that dog pee is bad for plants?” more times a day than I would ever admit at a dinner party. Although most people respond with surprise and apologies, there is always an entitled minority. Well-dressed and sometimes quite famous people will threaten to call the police, write angry letters or use their powerful connections to protect their inalienable right to allow Miffy to urinate with reckless abandon on every inch of our beautiful city.
Legally, it’s a gray area. New York City’s Canine Waste Law of 1978 requires dog owners to pick up only solid waste. Parks regulations state that no person shall “injure” trees or “mutilate” plants — and while dog urine does injure plants, proving prior knowledge of this and forethought would be a challenge. Ethically, however, it’s pretty straightforward: dogs should not pee on anything alive, nor do they naturally want to. The sad truth is that most owners have trained their dogs to relieve themselves on trees.
After a less than scientific survey of dog owners, it is clear that a majority think their pets’ urine is good for plants. Owners fantasize about their dogs in a forest, running free, bestowing lucky trees with much needed fertilizer. Miffy, they say, is doing the same thing here, for the less fortunate urban trees.
While urea is rich in nitrogen, and plants require nitrogen for leaf growth, urea is also rich in salt. Remember Carthage? The Romans salted the earth so that no crops would ever grow again. Salt sucks moisture from leaves and roots alike and kills beneficial soil microorganisms. Next time you’re in any park, look at the shrubs at the entrance and on corners; they all have a sad brown arc of dead leaves at the base.
More important, the nitrogen the dogs distribute so readily is in the form of nitrates. Most plants can’t use the nitrate form and must rely on soil bacteria to turn it into ammonium, the form they can absorb. Both natural and well-cared-for soils usually contain the bacterial and microbial communities to perform this function, but urban trees, like all of us city folk, have it rough. The soil is compacted, unwatered and lacking in organic material to support this activity. The urea generally stays as it is.
So while Miffy might someday help fertilize a forest tree, New York City has 1.4 million dogs and far fewer forests. I have watched a single plant get peed on 35 times over the course of a morning. That much urea can eat through bark and kill a small plant in a week. We may never know exactly how many plants and trees are killed by dog pee, but I assure you the number is staggering.
I never imagined gardening would include getting into the mind of a dog with a full bladder, yet I’ve added canine psychology to my repertory of considerations when locating plants: far from poles, away from the edges of walkways and in clumps (individuals are an easy target). My sign suggestion — “You don’t like to be peed on. Neither do plants.” — was deemed inappropriate for public display, so I hang more traditional signs over plants that are frequent victims.
But we do not want to become a society of signs and fences. Teaching dogs to respect plants is not impossible, even for the most manipulated owners — like those who tell me their pet is the one holding the leash. Oh really? I am quite positive that Miffy, given the option, would actually prefer to pee in the apartment rather than outside of it, yet you have persuaded her not to.
Rebecca McMackin lives in Clinton Hill, Brooklyn, and is a horticulturalist with New York City and a garden designer for Mantis Plant Works.

NYTimes.com: City Room: Complaint Box | Dog Urine

The New York Times E-mail This
This page was sent to you by:  jliebmann@aol.com

N.Y. / REGION   | April 15, 2011
City Room: Complaint Box | Dog Urine
By REBECCA MCMACKIN
Trees and other plants are harmed when dogs relieve themselves on them.