Thursday, January 27, 2011

Two surgeries later, I learned a lesson the hard way.

Meet Slade. He is a sweet and wonderful dog, who was rescued by RDR a couple years ago. This boy is truly a breed ambassador and I've never had an ounce of trouble with him whatsoever. That is, until I was rudely awakened by a second foreign object removal surgery.

In my 10+ years of pit bull experience, I've seen all kinds of destructive behavior, but it's always been taken out, so to speak, on another object. But in Slade's case, the damage he does is internal, and there is no way for me to make him understand. Often times, I catch him with a little piece of something off of the carpet, and typically take it out. I shudder to think of the times I don't see him snarfing down who-knows-what else!

So what's the bottom line here? I got comfortable and wasn't paying enough attention to his treat-eating and chewing habits. Since I realize he'll have this tendency the rest of his life, the only thing I can do is prevent another situation. As much as I wish he could "get it", I am entirely responsible for keeping him safe and must do better. His life depends on it!

Tuesday, January 25, 2011

Take Action -- HB 2482 Weakens protection for animals


Under H.B. 2482 it would be more difficult to seize animals trapped in inhumane conditions by breeders, dealers or pet stores. Under the bill animals could only be seized if they are "(i) under a direct and immediate threat or (ii) the owner or custodian is unable to or does not provide adequate impoundment." Otherwise, the breeder, dealer or pet shop could be ordered to impound animals under a directive or order. Yes, the abuser would "impound" their own abused or neglected animals. Regardless, upon conviction, the breeder, dealer or pet shop could obtain return of the animals "at the discretion of the court."

Emergency veterinary care requirements for all owners and keepers would be limited under the bill. Emergency veterinary treatment would no longer include treatment to prevent further progression of a disease but only that necessary "to stabilize a life-threatening condition, alleviate suffering, or prevent further transmission of a serious disease".

The bill would repeal provisions requiring owners to pay the costs associated with seizure of animals. Even if the animal is found to have been abandoned, cruelly treated, or deprived of adequate care, the court would not be obligated to require the owner to pay for costs of caring for the animal following seizure.

The bill would also allow courts to return animals to owners who are convicted of depriving them of adequate care and even if the animals were abandoned or cruelly treated.

WHAT YOU CAN DO
This bill will repeal or weaken some hard won protections for animals. H.B. 2482 has been assigned to the Committee on Agriculture, Chesapeake and Natural Resources. Find committee members here and your Virginia legislators here. Call or write (faxes or letters are best) and urge them to vote NO on  H.B. 2482.

Sunday, January 9, 2011