Sunday, July 22, 2007
Friday, July 20, 2007
Some things to remember:
It's doubtful any of us will ever achieve this level of understanding/compassion:
If you can live without caffeine,
If you can be cheerful, ignoring aches and pains,
If you can resist complaining,
If you can eat the same food every day and be grateful for it,
If you can understand when your loved ones are too busy to give you any time,
If you can overlook it when those you love take it out on you when, though no fault of yours, something goes wrong,
If you can take criticism and blame without resentment,
If you can ignore a friend's limited education and never correct
him/her,
If you can resist treating a rich friend better than a poor friend,
If you can face the world without lies and deceit,
If you can conquer tension without medical help,
If you can relax without liquor,
If you can sleep without the aid of drugs,
If you can honestly say that deep in your heart
you have no prejudice against creed, color, religion, gender preference, or politics,
THEN, you have ALMOST reached the same level of development as your dog.
If you can live without caffeine,
If you can be cheerful, ignoring aches and pains,
If you can resist complaining,
If you can eat the same food every day and be grateful for it,
If you can understand when your loved ones are too busy to give you any time,
If you can overlook it when those you love take it out on you when, though no fault of yours, something goes wrong,
If you can take criticism and blame without resentment,
If you can ignore a friend's limited education and never correct
him/her,
If you can resist treating a rich friend better than a poor friend,
If you can face the world without lies and deceit,
If you can conquer tension without medical help,
If you can relax without liquor,
If you can sleep without the aid of drugs,
If you can honestly say that deep in your heart
you have no prejudice against creed, color, religion, gender preference, or politics,
THEN, you have ALMOST reached the same level of development as your dog.
What does it mean to “Spay” or “Neuter” Your Pet?
The following article appeared Island Locator's July Edition:
By Katie Busenkell
Responsible pet ownership is often associated with “spaying” or “neutering” your pet. But, many people do not know what it means to spay or neuter a pet, or why it is so important.
What does spaying or neutering mean?
Spaying and neutering are essentially the same idea. They are terms used to describe an operation that removes the reproductive organs of a dog or cat.
A female is spayed and a male is neutered. When a female is spayed, the veterinarian usually removes the female’s reproductive organs, or her ovaries, fallopian tubes, and uterus. When a male is neutered, the veterinarian removes the male’s testicles.
Does this operation cause pain to the animal?
No. In both cases, the operation is performed while the pet is under anesthesia, which is a gas or injection that makes the animal unable to feel pain.
The operation is usually performed at your veterinarian’s office. Though the actual surgical procedure doesn’t take that long, the anesthesia takes awhile to wear off. Therefore, your pet will likely have to stay at the vet’s office for a few hours, possibly a few days.
You may also be asked to keep your animal calm and quiet for a few days after the operation to avoid any infection or discomfort caused by the incision. By keeping your pet calm and quiet, the incision will have time to properly heal.
How old does an animal have to be to be spayed or neutered?
A dog or cat can be spayed or neutered at almost any age, according to the American Medical Veterinary Association (AVMA). In some instances, dogs and cats can be spayed or neutered as early as six weeks old. However, most spaying and neutering operations are performed once the animal reaches sexual maturity.
Your veterinarian can advise you on the most appropriate time for your particular pet based upon its breed, age and physical condition.
What are the benefits to spaying a female?
Where to begin? There are so many!
Female dogs typically go into “heat” every six months. When a female dog is in “heat” that means she is fertile, or can get pregnant. A female dog in heat will bleed from her rear-end area, give off a scent (that is undetectable to humans) to attract male dogs from miles around, become anxious, short-tempered, or actively seek a mate. The female dog’s heat cycle can last up to 21 days.
Female cats can come into heat every two weeks during breeding season until they become pregnant. While a female cat is in heat, she may engage in behaviors such as frequent yowling or urinating in unacceptable places.
When a female dog and/or cat is spayed, the heat cycle is eliminated, or stopped. That means no more bleeding, attracting males, becoming anxious or short-tempered, or better yet – no more pregnancies and no more babies! No more babies means that the island has less unwanted animals, less strays, and less suffering sickly animals that are in need of homes and/or medical attention.
Female dogs and cats that are spayed are typically more appreciated by their owners, as the worrying or annoying inconveniences associated with a female in heat or a pregnant female are non-existent.
Early spaying of female dogs and cats also helps protect the animals from serious health problems such as uterine infections and cancers, and/or sexually transmitted diseases.
What are the benefits to neutering a male?
Males are half the equation in population control. Even if they aren't the ones giving birth to babies, they are equally responsible for making the babies.
Male dogs and cats are capable of breeding at the early age of 6-9 months old. Once a male reaches sexual maturity, they start “marking” their territory by spraying strong-smelling urine on furniture, curtains, patios, gardens, etc. Sexually mature males are less likely to stay home because they are constantly looking for a mate. Finding a mate isn’t always easy, so they may run away and get lost, stolen, or injured, while tracking down a female in heat. Dogs seeking a female in heat can become aggressive and may injure themselves and people by engaging in fights.
Neutering male dogs and cats reduces the need to breed and can have a calming effect that makes them less inclined to roam and more content to stay at home. This does not, however, mean that a male dog is less protective of the house or family. Neutered dogs make good guard dogs because they are less likely to leave the property or house.
Neutering your male pet also improves his health by reducing the risk of prostate disease, testicular cancer and infections.
How does spaying and/or neutering my pet make a difference for the community?
Saipan has a serious animal population problem. Each year, hundreds of animals are dumped in the jungles, beaches, or abandoned by roadsides. These abandoned, roaming, stray, and sick animals have a negative impact on our tourist industry, property values, public health, and public safety. In addition to causing our society numerous costly problems, these unwanted animals suffer horribly before dying of starvation, disease, worms, or by the acts of man.
Furthermore, irresponsible breeding contributes to:
By having your dog or cat spayed or neutered, you will do your part to prevent the birth of unwanted dogs and cats and you will enhance your pet's health and quality of life, while also improving our community.
Spaying or Neutering an animal is expensive – Is it worth the expense?
Yes! Without doubt, spaying or neutering your animal is worth every cent! This is a one-time expense that can dramatically improve the quality of life for you, your neighbor, community members, and your pet.
If you are still uncertain about whether or not to proceed with the surgery, consider the expense to society of collecting and caring for all the unwanted, abused, or abandoned animals. You may not even be aware of this – but there are a lot people working very hard, both professionally and as volunteers, to care for these animals and find them permanent and safe homes.
Having your pet spayed or neutered is a part of responsible pet ownership and an important investment in your pet's long-term good health.
Who do I contact to get my animal(s) spayed and/or neutered?
If you are interested in learning more about spaying or neutering, or wish to have your pet spayed or neutered, please contact:
Dr. Edgar Tudor Paradise Island Animal Hospital 234-9669
** Information for this article was provided by: Dr. Joi Sutton, D.V.M., Founder and President of Veterinary Ventures, Portland, OR (www.veterinaryventures.com), The United States Humane Society at http://www.hsus.org/pets/pet_care/why_you_should_spay_or_neuter_your_pet.html, and the American Veterinary Medical Association at http://www.avma.org/communications/brochures/spay-neuter/spay-neuter_brochure.asp.
Responsible pet ownership is often associated with “spaying” or “neutering” your pet. But, many people do not know what it means to spay or neuter a pet, or why it is so important.
What does spaying or neutering mean?
Spaying and neutering are essentially the same idea. They are terms used to describe an operation that removes the reproductive organs of a dog or cat.A female is spayed and a male is neutered. When a female is spayed, the veterinarian usually removes the female’s reproductive organs, or her ovaries, fallopian tubes, and uterus. When a male is neutered, the veterinarian removes the male’s testicles.
Does this operation cause pain to the animal?
No. In both cases, the operation is performed while the pet is under anesthesia, which is a gas or injection that makes the animal unable to feel pain.
The operation is usually performed at your veterinarian’s office. Though the actual surgical procedure doesn’t take that long, the anesthesia takes awhile to wear off. Therefore, your pet will likely have to stay at the vet’s office for a few hours, possibly a few days.
You may also be asked to keep your animal calm and quiet for a few days after the operation to avoid any infection or discomfort caused by the incision. By keeping your pet calm and quiet, the incision will have time to properly heal.
How old does an animal have to be to be spayed or neutered?
A dog or cat can be spayed or neutered at almost any age, according to the American Medical Veterinary Association (AVMA). In some instances, dogs and cats can be spayed or neutered as early as six weeks old. However, most spaying and neutering operations are performed once the animal reaches sexual maturity.
Your veterinarian can advise you on the most appropriate time for your particular pet based upon its breed, age and physical condition.
What are the benefits to spaying a female?
Where to begin? There are so many!
Female dogs typically go into “heat” every six months. When a female dog is in “heat” that means she is fertile, or can get pregnant. A female dog in heat will bleed from her rear-end area, give off a scent (that is undetectable to humans) to attract male dogs from miles around, become anxious, short-tempered, or actively seek a mate. The female dog’s heat cycle can last up to 21 days.
Female cats can come into heat every two weeks during breeding season until they become pregnant. While a female cat is in heat, she may engage in behaviors such as frequent yowling or urinating in unacceptable places.
When a female dog and/or cat is spayed, the heat cycle is eliminated, or stopped. That means no more bleeding, attracting males, becoming anxious or short-tempered, or better yet – no more pregnancies and no more babies! No more babies means that the island has less unwanted animals, less strays, and less suffering sickly animals that are in need of homes and/or medical attention.
Female dogs and cats that are spayed are typically more appreciated by their owners, as the worrying or annoying inconveniences associated with a female in heat or a pregnant female are non-existent.
Early spaying of female dogs and cats also helps protect the animals from serious health problems such as uterine infections and cancers, and/or sexually transmitted diseases.
What are the benefits to neutering a male?
Males are half the equation in population control. Even if they aren't the ones giving birth to babies, they are equally responsible for making the babies.
Male dogs and cats are capable of breeding at the early age of 6-9 months old. Once a male reaches sexual maturity, they start “marking” their territory by spraying strong-smelling urine on furniture, curtains, patios, gardens, etc. Sexually mature males are less likely to stay home because they are constantly looking for a mate. Finding a mate isn’t always easy, so they may run away and get lost, stolen, or injured, while tracking down a female in heat. Dogs seeking a female in heat can become aggressive and may injure themselves and people by engaging in fights.
Neutering male dogs and cats reduces the need to breed and can have a calming effect that makes them less inclined to roam and more content to stay at home. This does not, however, mean that a male dog is less protective of the house or family. Neutered dogs make good guard dogs because they are less likely to leave the property or house.
Neutering your male pet also improves his health by reducing the risk of prostate disease, testicular cancer and infections.
How does spaying and/or neutering my pet make a difference for the community?
Saipan has a serious animal population problem. Each year, hundreds of animals are dumped in the jungles, beaches, or abandoned by roadsides. These abandoned, roaming, stray, and sick animals have a negative impact on our tourist industry, property values, public health, and public safety. In addition to causing our society numerous costly problems, these unwanted animals suffer horribly before dying of starvation, disease, worms, or by the acts of man.
Furthermore, irresponsible breeding contributes to:
- The problem of dog bites and attacks;
- Stray and roaming dogs that litter our neighborhoods and negatively affect tourism;
- Dead dogs that smell, and negatively affect our neighborhoods and tourism;
- Overburdening parties who are trying to address our animal-related problems, such as PAWS, AWC, Beautify CNMI!, DLNR, and Paradise Island Animal Hospital;
- Stray pets and homeless animals get into trash containers, which litters our beaches and jungles;
- Stray pets poop in public places and on private lawns; and
- Stray animals affect our wildlife population, such as birds, turtles, and lizards.
By having your dog or cat spayed or neutered, you will do your part to prevent the birth of unwanted dogs and cats and you will enhance your pet's health and quality of life, while also improving our community.
Spaying or Neutering an animal is expensive – Is it worth the expense?
Yes! Without doubt, spaying or neutering your animal is worth every cent! This is a one-time expense that can dramatically improve the quality of life for you, your neighbor, community members, and your pet.
If you are still uncertain about whether or not to proceed with the surgery, consider the expense to society of collecting and caring for all the unwanted, abused, or abandoned animals. You may not even be aware of this – but there are a lot people working very hard, both professionally and as volunteers, to care for these animals and find them permanent and safe homes.
Having your pet spayed or neutered is a part of responsible pet ownership and an important investment in your pet's long-term good health.
Who do I contact to get my animal(s) spayed and/or neutered?
If you are interested in learning more about spaying or neutering, or wish to have your pet spayed or neutered, please contact:
Dr. Edgar Tudor Paradise Island Animal Hospital 234-9669
** Information for this article was provided by: Dr. Joi Sutton, D.V.M., Founder and President of Veterinary Ventures, Portland, OR (www.veterinaryventures.com), The United States Humane Society at http://www.hsus.org/pets/pet_care/why_you_should_spay_or_neuter_your_pet.html, and the American Veterinary Medical Association at http://www.avma.org/communications/brochures/spay-neuter/spay-neuter_brochure.asp.
Tuesday, July 10, 2007
Family Offers $50.00 Reward for Dog's Safe Return
Dennis Tababa and his family are asking for your help in finding their dog Snoopy. The dog was last seen on July 4, 2007 in the morning hours chained to a post in the families' front yard. By mid-morning, someone had stolen the dog.
If you or anyone you can provide information that leads to Snoopy's safe return, please contact Dennis Tababa at 234-0148. The family is offering a reward of $50.00 for Snoopy's safe return.
Snoopy is regarded as a member of the family, and is greatly missed.
Breed: Boonie
Color: Brown coat, in good condition, with black around the mouth and tail.
Gender: Male
Age: 3 years old
Sunday, July 8, 2007
Sad, but typical story here in Saipan
What a sad situation -sad story.
PAWS published a piece in the Saipan Tribune the other day about a rescue attempt of a dog that was dumped at the Airport about 3-4 months ago. We received a call from a TOURIST who spotted the emaciated dog upon her arrival in Saipan.
I knew of the dog's existence, but had completely forgotten about it. Three months ago, I noticed the dog when I was dropped off at the airport to catch a flight. I swore I would take care of it when I got back, but completely forgot with all the other complaints, animals, and issues that continually come up on a daily basis.
So, three months later, PAWS received an email about this female dog living in the airport parking lot.
Look for yourself - she, the rescue dog, is nothing but skin and bones. I hope it can be rescued. I hope someone comes forward and offers to house the dog for 2-3 months while she regains her strength. But, if no one comes forward, the dog will be put to sleep.
In a last ditch effort to find a fostering home for this dog, we published an article in the paper. ONE person responded to our plea for help - ONE person. This one person was a young lady, who obviously has a soft spot for animals.
I typically do a house visit before handing over a foster dog. So, I went by this young lady's house on Saturday to check out the set-up.
While I was at the house, I noticed the family had three dogs: one male and two females. The male was in great condition - beautiful coat, thick waist, with clear eyes. The females had mange, collar rash, and were too thin.
I asked questions about the females, and as it turns out, they are kept chained up because the family doesn't want them to get pregnant. Constantly being chained up causes the collar-rash and/or irritates the mangy skin.
During my inquiry, the dogs' owner asked about spaying the females. "How much would it cost to spay those females - $100?" A series of thoughts went through my head: First, I was shocked that he knew what spaying was. Second, I was delighted that he wanted to do it. Third, I was irritated that the cost of being a responsible pet owner was absurdly out of reach for this gentleman.
"No, it will cost you about $350 per dog." I could see the disappointment in his face. Obviously, $100 was out of the question, but $350 was out completely of the question .
After talking to this man and his family about alternative methods of birth control, I focused on the good looking and well-looked after male.
I asked a series of questions about the male dog, which lead to the story of the male dog's brother. According to the gentleman, the male dog had a brother until 3 days ago when someone stole him. The family says they know who took him, and they know that he has been eaten.
Regardless, they asked that I help them find the dog. "My wife misses the dog. She still cries about him," the man said.
I mentioned a reward would help, and the gentleman said he would offer $50.00 to the person who safely returned the dog.
What a crappy situation for this family - and yet - they are still willing to help the airport dog that is in need. Here, they have two female dogs that they are trying to take care of, but can't afford to do so, and their male dog was recently stolen and possibly eaten.
I often leave these situations wondering WHY we can't help this man be a responsible pet owner. Why can't we host a spay and neuter clinic so this man can get his females spayed? How many other people on the island are like him? How much better would this place be if we helped these people accomplish their pet-goals?
Anyway, if you have information on the dog that was stolen, please contact Dennis Tababa at 234-0148.
PAWS published a piece in the Saipan Tribune the other day about a rescue attempt of a dog that was dumped at the Airport about 3-4 months ago. We received a call from a TOURIST who spotted the emaciated dog upon her arrival in Saipan.
I knew of the dog's existence, but had completely forgotten about it. Three months ago, I noticed the dog when I was dropped off at the airport to catch a flight. I swore I would take care of it when I got back, but completely forgot with all the other complaints, animals, and issues that continually come up on a daily basis.
So, three months later, PAWS received an email about this female dog living in the airport parking lot.
Look for yourself - she, the rescue dog, is nothing but skin and bones. I hope it can be rescued. I hope someone comes forward and offers to house the dog for 2-3 months while she regains her strength. But, if no one comes forward, the dog will be put to sleep.In a last ditch effort to find a fostering home for this dog, we published an article in the paper. ONE person responded to our plea for help - ONE person. This one person was a young lady, who obviously has a soft spot for animals.
I typically do a house visit before handing over a foster dog. So, I went by this young lady's house on Saturday to check out the set-up.
While I was at the house, I noticed the family had three dogs: one male and two females. The male was in great condition - beautiful coat, thick waist, with clear eyes. The females had mange, collar rash, and were too thin.
I asked questions about the females, and as it turns out, they are kept chained up because the family doesn't want them to get pregnant. Constantly being chained up causes the collar-rash and/or irritates the mangy skin.
During my inquiry, the dogs' owner asked about spaying the females. "How much would it cost to spay those females - $100?" A series of thoughts went through my head: First, I was shocked that he knew what spaying was. Second, I was delighted that he wanted to do it. Third, I was irritated that the cost of being a responsible pet owner was absurdly out of reach for this gentleman.
"No, it will cost you about $350 per dog." I could see the disappointment in his face. Obviously, $100 was out of the question, but $350 was out completely of the question .
After talking to this man and his family about alternative methods of birth control, I focused on the good looking and well-looked after male.
I asked a series of questions about the male dog, which lead to the story of the male dog's brother. According to the gentleman, the male dog had a brother until 3 days ago when someone stole him. The family says they know who took him, and they know that he has been eaten.
Regardless, they asked that I help them find the dog. "My wife misses the dog. She still cries about him," the man said.
I mentioned a reward would help, and the gentleman said he would offer $50.00 to the person who safely returned the dog.
What a crappy situation for this family - and yet - they are still willing to help the airport dog that is in need. Here, they have two female dogs that they are trying to take care of, but can't afford to do so, and their male dog was recently stolen and possibly eaten.
I often leave these situations wondering WHY we can't help this man be a responsible pet owner. Why can't we host a spay and neuter clinic so this man can get his females spayed? How many other people on the island are like him? How much better would this place be if we helped these people accomplish their pet-goals?
Anyway, if you have information on the dog that was stolen, please contact Dennis Tababa at 234-0148.
Thursday, July 5, 2007
Rescue Attempt for Airport Dog
PAWS is looking for a foster home or permanent home for a dog that is in need, and for someone to sponsor her medical attention.
Jane Belcher, from Texas, is here visiting Saipan for a couple of weeks. Upon her arrival in Saipan, she was greeted by a homeless black and white dog that lives at the Saipan Airport. The dog, according to Belcher, is emaciated. According to other reports, the dog has been living at the airport for at least three months.
Jane started feeding the dog, and has done so throughout her stay here in Saipan. She said, “When I first saw her, she literally could not stand on 3 feet to use the other one to scratch. Her tail was totally under her body. By Wednesday, after only a few days of food, she was running up to me, her tail was wagging and she actually whined a hello before I fed her on Wednesday night.”
She contacted PAWS and asked for their assistance. Per her request, PAWS went to visit the dog and bring it food and water, and to determine what course of action to take. PAWS President Katie Busenkell said that despite the dog’s weakened condition, she has a pleasant and friendly personality.
Busenkell said, “Cases like this are disturbing for numerous reasons. First, it is always disturbing that someone feels no shame in abandoning a dog and leaving it to fend for itself, or to die a slow death of starvation. Second, it is disturbing that so many people could look at this dog everyday on their way to work and not feel compelled to help it – if not for the dog’s safe, to benefit the community. And third, it is disturbing that our legislature still has not enacted an anti-cruelty bill that prohibits and deters animal abandonment, among other things.”
PAWS believes the dog can be nursed back to health, but they need to find someone to sponsor her medical treatment and provide the dog with a safe place to recuperate. Busenkell said, “This is precisely why we need a shelter. So animals don’t have to suffer this long, and so our community and tourists don’t have to witness their suffering.”
If no home can be found for this dog by Monday, PAWS will attempt to catch it and have her euthanized at the DLNR clinic on Tuesday.
If you or someone you know would be willing to help this dog, please contact Katie at 256-0243. (home) or at busenkell@gmail.com.
Jane Belcher, from Texas, is here visiting Saipan for a couple of weeks. Upon her arrival in Saipan, she was greeted by a homeless black and white dog that lives at the Saipan Airport. The dog, according to Belcher, is emaciated. According to other reports, the dog has been living at the airport for at least three months.
Jane started feeding the dog, and has done so throughout her stay here in Saipan. She said, “When I first saw her, she literally could not stand on 3 feet to use the other one to scratch. Her tail was totally under her body. By Wednesday, after only a few days of food, she was running up to me, her tail was wagging and she actually whined a hello before I fed her on Wednesday night.”
She contacted PAWS and asked for their assistance. Per her request, PAWS went to visit the dog and bring it food and water, and to determine what course of action to take. PAWS President Katie Busenkell said that despite the dog’s weakened condition, she has a pleasant and friendly personality.
Busenkell said, “Cases like this are disturbing for numerous reasons. First, it is always disturbing that someone feels no shame in abandoning a dog and leaving it to fend for itself, or to die a slow death of starvation. Second, it is disturbing that so many people could look at this dog everyday on their way to work and not feel compelled to help it – if not for the dog’s safe, to benefit the community. And third, it is disturbing that our legislature still has not enacted an anti-cruelty bill that prohibits and deters animal abandonment, among other things.”
PAWS believes the dog can be nursed back to health, but they need to find someone to sponsor her medical treatment and provide the dog with a safe place to recuperate. Busenkell said, “This is precisely why we need a shelter. So animals don’t have to suffer this long, and so our community and tourists don’t have to witness their suffering.”
If no home can be found for this dog by Monday, PAWS will attempt to catch it and have her euthanized at the DLNR clinic on Tuesday.
If you or someone you know would be willing to help this dog, please contact Katie at 256-0243. (home) or at busenkell@gmail.com.
Wednesday, July 4, 2007
Looking for a Dog? We have a few recommendations.
PAWS is currently looking for responsible homes for numerous dogs and puppies . If you someone you know is interested in adopting a dog, and can provide a safe and loving home for a pet, please contact the individuals listed below.1. Two loving puppies: Two energetic and playful male puppies need loving homes. One is pure black and the other one is light brown. Both have been treated for mange and worms. They have been given their first vaccination and are on Revolution, a topical medication that prevents heartworm and repels ticks and fleas.
These two puppies are very energetic, and like to play with each other, other dogs, and people.
If you are interested in adopting these cute puppies, please contact El at 236-2997 (work), 484-1941 (cell), or by email at elliac2000@yahoo.com
2. Owner of three dogs seeks home for all three – together or separate: Robert Churney, the owner of three loved dogs is moving back to the mainland and unfortunately, he cannot afford to take his three dogs. Therefore, he is seeking a loving and responsible home for all three of his dogs, Marcus, Obi, and Lady, either separately or together.
If you are interested in adopting one, two, or all three of Robert’s dogs, please contact him at 256-0307 or at robert.churney@gmail.com.
Marcus: He is one (1) year of age, weighs twenty-five (25) pounds, is very strong and healthy, and has all of his vaccination shots.
He is a dutiful watchdog, but also very friendly and affectionate with his family. Marcus is athletic. He particularly enjoys running, walks, swimming, and trips to the beach.
He is incredibly handsome – monotone brown coat, which is beautiful, and great eyes.
He has been a good companion and friend, and he will be greatly missed.
Obi: He's six (6) months old, sixteen (16) pounds, very strong and healthy, and had all of his shots. Obi is very friendly and affectionate.
He is absolutely beautiful, with a nice face and body marking, pointed ears and a good coat. Obi has a melodious bark and he likes to vocalize when he has something to tell you.
Obi has been a wonderful puppy and companion. He too will be greatly missed.
Lady: Lady was found while on a walk up to Forbidden Island in Kagman III. She was in a clump of bushes next to a black trash bag of dead puppies. She is believed to have clawed her way out of the bag and survived.
Lady was seriously malnourished and had no hair due to mange and a bacterial infection. Judging from the decomposition of her dead siblings, she had been there several days and nights and was hungry, thirsty and frightened. Robert said, “I really don’t know how she survived, but she really had a will to live. I brought her home, cleaned and fed her, gave her a few antibiotics I had left over from my other dogs, and also gave her some dog vitamins. She had badly bowed front legs, probably from vitamin deficiency, so I fed her some vegetables with her food and bandaged her legs around the knee to provide support and prompt healing.”Today, Lady’s legs are straight and sturdy. She also has plenty of puppy energy. It is important to note that Lady is currently receiving mange treatment through the DLNR Clinic. She has another treatment or two to go, but appears to be in good health otherwise. Robert firmly believes that with a little love and care, Lady will grow into a big and beautiful female dog with lovely red hair.
3. Sweet Momma Dog: This sweet female dog needs a good home. She was abandon in her rescuer’s neighborhood about a year ago. She's very gentle, good with children and other dogs.
She's sweet and playful and needs some love. If you are interested, please contact Nicolette at nicolettevidal@hotmail.com.
If the dog or puppy you saw in this article is no longer available, please contact Katie Busenkell at 256-0243 or at busenkell@gmail.com. PAWS is constantly receiving requests for help in finding loving and responsible homes for animals, so we can help you find that perfect pet for your family.
Also, PAWS would like to take this opportunity to remind you that we are here to help you find a pet or find a home. Please, be a responsible pet owner. Do not dump or “throw” unwanted animals. Dumping unwanted animals leads to the animal suffering, and it negatively affects our property values, tourist industry, public health and public safety.
If you or someone you know needs help with an unwanted animal, or is seeking information on responsible pet ownership, please visit the PAWS website at www.paws-saipan.org, our blogsite at www.paws-saipan.blogspot.com, or contact Katie Busenkell at busenkell@gmail.com.
What is it about Miracle Mike?
At first, it was hard to distinguish the squirming lump from the roadkill he was glued to. One truck ran right over him; another car was about to do the same. Attached to what emerged as a tiny body were 2 floppy ears and very little hair; when he raised his head, he looked more like a chicken than a dog. I stopped my truck and scooped him up. This was a problem: We already have five dogs and five cats, and we promised (the last time), that there would be NO MORE. So when I returned to my classroom with the puppy, there was a real question as to what to do with him.I made a pbj sandwich while we contemplated his future. After scarfing down his half [of the sandwich], Mikey immediately threw up.
So you ask: what made me love him? Certainly not the mange that covered his little body. Certainly not the stump that masqueraded as a tail that wagged his whole body. Certainly not the bones and squiggly things he continued to vomit.
I promised myself I would not care about this little dog, because I didn't know if he would live, and I knew I couldn't keep him. Yet, I was prepared to camp out with him at the classroom if there were objections to bringing him home.
Dan [my husband] agreed [to let him stay at the house]-- so long as it was temporary, and so long as I figured out some way to stop the incessant scratching, the vomiting, and other problems caused by the 5 dogs who ignored him and the 5 cats who hissed at him.
There is a history here. Last year, Dan brought Penny home around Mother's Day. Penny is a Dalmatian wannabe -- and the most hyper, obnoxious dog that ever was. Dan, however, loves her, and if he didn't bring her home, she would have died. Penny is not the sharpest pencil in the box, either: it took her months to grasp that she was to do her business outside the house; that she didn't have to throw up after every meal; that the other dogs and cats have their own personal space; and that every one's shoes were not her personal toys. Penny was obviously not my favorite: she harassed (and harasses) the other dogs in her endless quest for attention; and she required endless trips to Dr. Tudor, all of which cost some $1200 in vet bills to treat her skin problems, her ehrlichia (which dog on this island DOESN'T have it?) and spaying complications. No one loves Penny except Dan. So Dan owed me one.
The new guy, however, never saw the
As for the other dogs? The pup refuses to take "no" for an answer. He charms them; he tries to play; he never gets mad when they growl at or ignore him. He's never in a bad mood, and he just tries so
There's not just one special thing about Mikey -- it's just the package. I've never seen a little one try so hard to fit in, just to make it. So we love him, not because he's beautiful (because he's far from that), but because he sees the beauty in everything.
So what makes Mikey Miracle Mike? He loves Penny, and life, and every thing
By: Phyllis Ain, Saipan, MP
Monday, July 2, 2007
Low-Cost Veterinary Clinics - Cancelled
We have received numerous inquiries asking about the PAWS and Beautify CNMI! Veterinary Clinic. Hopefully, the following will clarify our position.
First, PAWS to date has not agreed to host a low-cost spay and neuter clinic.
Second, Beautify CNMI!'s Animal Welfare Committee was planning a low-cost spay and neuter clinic that was planned to visit Saipan for two weeks in February or March of 2008. Unfortunately, due to circumstances beyond Beautify CNMI!'s control, the volunteer veterinarians of Veterinary Ventures, will not be making the trip to the CNMI.
First, PAWS to date has not agreed to host a low-cost spay and neuter clinic.
Second, Beautify CNMI!'s Animal Welfare Committee was planning a low-cost spay and neuter clinic that was planned to visit Saipan for two weeks in February or March of 2008. Unfortunately, due to circumstances beyond Beautify CNMI!'s control, the volunteer veterinarians of Veterinary Ventures, will not be making the trip to the CNMI.
Beautify CNMI! will continue to work towards hosting this important event.
What's Eating Your Dog?
The following article appeared in the Island Locator's June Edition. Please note, the following pictures were taken before and after these two rescued dogs were treated at DLNR Clinic and Paradise Island Animal Hospital. The larger dog was treated at DLNR. The smaller dog was treated at PIAH. Point is: YOU HAVE OPTIONS FOR TREATMENT SO THERE IS NO EXCUSE NOT TO HELP THAT DOG!
By: Katie Busenkell
By: Katie Busenkell
Ever wonder what is eating your dog? Not who is eating your dog, but what is eating your dog. Or, maybe you don’t even know that something is eating your dog. To find out, answer some of the following questions:
1. Is your dog constantly scratching?
2. Is your dog missing patches of hair?
3. Have those patches of missing hair gotten bigger and bigger?
If you answered yes to these three questions, then your dog may have what is called “mange.”
So, what is mange?
Mange is a skin disease that affects animals. On Saipan, the skin disease most commonly affects dogs, though it is contagious to humans. Common symptoms include hair loss, itching, and inflammation.
There are two kinds of mange: Sarcoptic Mange and Demodectic Mange.
Sarcopic Mange:
Sarcoptic Mange is caused by a small parasite called a mite. The mites burrow into the hair follicle and lay eggs. When the mites invade the hair follicle, it causes an infection. The eggs and the infection basically push the hair out of the hair follicle and that results in hair loss.
Sarcoptic mange is very itchy in hypersensitive animals. So you have a better understanding of just how miserable it is to be itchy all the time, imagine being covered with mosquito bites, poison ivy, or having the chicken poxes. It is so itchy that some animals itch themselves raw.
Is Sarcoptic Mange Contagious?
Yes. Sarcoptic mange is very contagious. It is usually spread or contracted by direct contact with an infested animal, although it can also be spread, rarely, by indirect contact.
If you handle a dog that has mange, it is best to wear gloves and wash your hands thoroughly after handling the dog. Avoid skin contact. If skin contact should occur, be sure to wash the exposed area as soon as possible with soap and water.
When will I know if my dog has Sarcoptic Mange?
Well, if you don’t know already, you may have to wait between 10 days and 8 weeks after your animal is exposed to an infected animal. This is the time it takes from contact or exposure (to the disease or infected/infested animal) to the manifestation of the disease or infestation. It is not clear how long the mite can survive in the environment, detached from its host.
Watch for hair loss, itching, and lesions. Also look for a thin yellow crust or flake –that is puss and it means that your dog has a skin infection.
How Do I treat my dog’s Sarcoptic Mange?
Don’t waste your money on over the counter medications or homeopathic remedies. Sarcoptic mange is a serious disease that needs to be treated by a veterinarian as quickly as possible to prevent the disease from spreading, and to reduce the animal’s suffering.
There are chemicals or acaricides (a substance that is poisonous to ticks and mites) that can kill the mite on or off its host. Administering these chemicals is limited to licensed veterinarians by the FDA. Luckily, both of our island veterinarians are equipped to treat Sarcoptic Mange.
For more details on treatment options, contact Dr. Tudor at Paradise Island Animal Hospital (234-9669) or Dr. dela Cruz at DLNR (234-6169).
How Can I prevent Sarcoptic Mange?
The best thing to do to prevent the spread of this skin disease between dogs is to prevent direct contact with the clean (uninfested) animal. If the dogs live together, complete separation by double fencing, at least two feet apart, would be the best thing to do to prevent the "clean" dog from getting the infestation.
Revolution, which requires a prescription, can be very effective in preventing mange and heartworm, and killing ticks, fleas, and flea eggs.
Revolution can be bought at Paradise Island Animal Hospital, or on-line after obtaining a prescription from either on-island veterinarian. Prescriptions for Revolution are available at DLNR for $5.00 after an examination. If you are going to shop on-line for animal care items, try 1800PetMeds.com – shipping is free and the package usually arrives within 4-5 days.
Demodectic Mange:
Demodectic mange mainly affects puppies and older dogs.
Puppies get the mites shortly after birth from their mother. Some puppies cannot develop the immunity or resistance to the mites, so they have a reaction to the infestation, or mite bites.
Is Demodectic Mange contagious?
No. Unlike Sarcoptic Mange, Demodectic Mange is not contagious to humans and most dogs.
How will I know if my puppy or older dog has Demodectic Mange?
Symptoms will appear, such as hair loss. In some cases, pimples will appear around the upper portions of the eyelids and forehead.
How do I treat my dog’s Demodectic Mange?
As a puppies’ immune system strengthens, they may become resistant to the Demodectic mite’s presence. However, about 10% of puppies don’t develop a resistance, and life for these puppies can be miserable if the disease is not treated.
Therefore, although treatment may not be necessary in all cases, it is highly recommended. If left untreated, Demodectic Mange can become a general infection, which affects the entire body. Bacterial infections are commonly seen in severe cases and may require numerous treatments before the disease is cured. Therefore, it is best to start treatment early before the infection becomes severe.
Treatment, when just starting, is by spot application of amitraz (Mitaban) or rotenone every two weeks. In a generalized condition, bathing or dipping, using Mitaban, every two weeks until two negative skin scrapings are achieved, is the treatment of choice.
Ivermectin can also work, but treatment may be prolonged. Systemic antibiotics are used to control or treat the bacterial infection.
These products are available only through a licensed veterinarian.
Do Not Dump that Dog – Treat that Dog!
Not all skin diseases are mange. Your dog may have a coral allergy or be allergic to flea or tick bites. These allergens are easily and affordably treated once diagnosed.
To find out what is plaguing your dog, take him/her to the veterinarian for an examination so the animal can be promptly treated. Prompt treatment by a veterinarian is important for two reasons: (1) it stops the disease from spreading to other dogs; and (2) reduces the dog’s suffering.
If you think your dog has a skin disease, please contact:
Dr. Edgar Tudor
Paradise Island Animal Hospital
234-9669
Dr. Ignacio dela Cruz
Department of Land Resources
234-6169
** Information for this article was provided by Dr. Igancio dela Cruz, DLNR and Tilley, Larry P. and Francis W.K. Smith, Jr., eds. The 5 Minute Veterinary Consult: Canine and Feline. Maryland: Williams & Wilkins, 1997.
1. Is your dog constantly scratching?
2. Is your dog missing patches of hair?
3. Have those patches of missing hair gotten bigger and bigger?
If you answered yes to these three questions, then your dog may have what is called “mange.”So, what is mange?
Mange is a skin disease that affects animals. On Saipan, the skin disease most commonly affects dogs, though it is contagious to humans. Common symptoms include hair loss, itching, and inflammation.
There are two kinds of mange: Sarcoptic Mange and Demodectic Mange.
Sarcopic Mange:
Sarcoptic Mange is caused by a small parasite called a mite. The mites burrow into the hair follicle and lay eggs. When the mites invade the hair follicle, it causes an infection. The eggs and the infection basically push the hair out of the hair follicle and that results in hair loss.
Sarcoptic mange is very itchy in hypersensitive animals. So you have a better understanding of just how miserable it is to be itchy all the time, imagine being covered with mosquito bites, poison ivy, or having the chicken poxes. It is so itchy that some animals itch themselves raw.
Is Sarcoptic Mange Contagious?
Yes. Sarcoptic mange is very contagious. It is usually spread or contracted by direct contact with an infested animal, although it can also be spread, rarely, by indirect contact.
If you handle a dog that has mange, it is best to wear gloves and wash your hands thoroughly after handling the dog. Avoid skin contact. If skin contact should occur, be sure to wash the exposed area as soon as possible with soap and water.
When will I know if my dog has Sarcoptic Mange?
Well, if you don’t know already, you may have to wait between 10 days and 8 weeks after your animal is exposed to an infected animal. This is the time it takes from contact or exposure (to the disease or infected/infested animal) to the manifestation of the disease or infestation. It is not clear how long the mite can survive in the environment, detached from its host.
Watch for hair loss, itching, and lesions. Also look for a thin yellow crust or flake –that is puss and it means that your dog has a skin infection.
How Do I treat my dog’s Sarcoptic Mange?
Don’t waste your money on over the counter medications or homeopathic remedies. Sarcoptic mange is a serious disease that needs to be treated by a veterinarian as quickly as possible to prevent the disease from spreading, and to reduce the animal’s suffering.
There are chemicals or acaricides (a substance that is poisonous to ticks and mites) that can kill the mite on or off its host. Administering these chemicals is limited to licensed veterinarians by the FDA. Luckily, both of our island veterinarians are equipped to treat Sarcoptic Mange.
For more details on treatment options, contact Dr. Tudor at Paradise Island Animal Hospital (234-9669) or Dr. dela Cruz at DLNR (234-6169).
How Can I prevent Sarcoptic Mange?
The best thing to do to prevent the spread of this skin disease between dogs is to prevent direct contact with the clean (uninfested) animal. If the dogs live together, complete separation by double fencing, at least two feet apart, would be the best thing to do to prevent the "clean" dog from getting the infestation.
Revolution, which requires a prescription, can be very effective in preventing mange and heartworm, and killing ticks, fleas, and flea eggs.
Revolution can be bought at Paradise Island Animal Hospital, or on-line after obtaining a prescription from either on-island veterinarian. Prescriptions for Revolution are available at DLNR for $5.00 after an examination. If you are going to shop on-line for animal care items, try 1800PetMeds.com – shipping is free and the package usually arrives within 4-5 days.
Demodectic Mange:
Demodectic mange mainly affects puppies and older dogs.
Puppies get the mites shortly after birth from their mother. Some puppies cannot develop the immunity or resistance to the mites, so they have a reaction to the infestation, or mite bites.
Is Demodectic Mange contagious?
No. Unlike Sarcoptic Mange, Demodectic Mange is not contagious to humans and most dogs.
How will I know if my puppy or older dog has Demodectic Mange?
Symptoms will appear, such as hair loss. In some cases, pimples will appear around the upper portions of the eyelids and forehead.
How do I treat my dog’s Demodectic Mange?
As a puppies’ immune system strengthens, they may become resistant to the Demodectic mite’s presence. However, about 10% of puppies don’t develop a resistance, and life for these puppies can be miserable if the disease is not treated.
Therefore, although treatment may not be necessary in all cases, it is highly recommended. If left untreated, Demodectic Mange can become a general infection, which affects the entire body. Bacterial infections are commonly seen in severe cases and may require numerous treatments before the disease is cured. Therefore, it is best to start treatment early before the infection becomes severe.
Treatment, when just starting, is by spot application of amitraz (Mitaban) or rotenone every two weeks. In a generalized condition, bathing or dipping, using Mitaban, every two weeks until two negative skin scrapings are achieved, is the treatment of choice.
Ivermectin can also work, but treatment may be prolonged. Systemic antibiotics are used to control or treat the bacterial infection.
These products are available only through a licensed veterinarian.Do Not Dump that Dog – Treat that Dog!
Not all skin diseases are mange. Your dog may have a coral allergy or be allergic to flea or tick bites. These allergens are easily and affordably treated once diagnosed.
To find out what is plaguing your dog, take him/her to the veterinarian for an examination so the animal can be promptly treated. Prompt treatment by a veterinarian is important for two reasons: (1) it stops the disease from spreading to other dogs; and (2) reduces the dog’s suffering.
If you think your dog has a skin disease, please contact:
Dr. Edgar Tudor
Paradise Island Animal Hospital
234-9669
Dr. Ignacio dela Cruz
Department of Land Resources
234-6169
** Information for this article was provided by Dr. Igancio dela Cruz, DLNR and Tilley, Larry P. and Francis W.K. Smith, Jr., eds. The 5 Minute Veterinary Consult: Canine and Feline. Maryland: Williams & Wilkins, 1997.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
