ASPCA: Top 10 Human Medications That Poison Our Pets

Although pet parents are well aware of poisons lurking around their home, many don’t realize that some of the biggest culprits are sitting right on their own nightstands. In 2007, the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center received 89,000 calls related to pets ingesting over-the-counter and prescription medications. To help you prevent an accident from happening, our experts have created a list of the top 10 human medications that most often poison our furry friends.

If you suspect your pet has ingested any of the following items, please call your veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center’s 24-hour hotline at (888) 426-4435. And remember to keep all medications tucked away in bathroom cabinets—and far from curious cats and dogs.

NSAIDs

NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) like ibuprofen or naproxen are the most common cause of pet poisoning in small animals, and can cause serious problems even in minimal doses. Pets are extremely sensitive to their effects, and may experience stomach and intestinal ulcers and—in the case of cats—kidney damage.

Antidepressants

Antidepressants can cause vomiting and lethargy and certain types can lead to serotonin syndrome—a condition marked by agitation, elevated body temperature, heart rate and blood pressure, disorientation, vocalization, tremors and seizures.

Acetaminophen

Cats are especially sensitive to acetaminophen, which can damage red blood cells and interfere with their ability to transport oxygen. In dogs, it can cause liver damage and, at higher doses, red blood cell damage.

Methylphenidate (for ADHD)

Medications used to treat ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) in people act as stimulants in pets and can dangerously elevate heart rates, blood pressure and body temperature, as well as cause seizures.

Fluorouracil

Fluorouracil—an anti-cancer drug—is used topically to treat minor skin cancers and solar keratitis in humans. It has proven to be rapidly fatal to dogs, causing severe vomiting, seizures and cardiac arrest even in those who’ve chewed on discarded cotton swabs used to apply the medication.

Isoniazid

Often the first line of defense against tuberculosis, isoniazid is particularly toxic for dogs because they don’t metabolize it as well as other species. It can cause a rapid onset of severe seizures that may ultimately result in death.

Pseudoephedrine

Pseudoephedrine is a popular decongestant in many cold and sinus products, and acts like a stimulant if accidentally ingested by pets. In cats and dogs, it causes elevated heart rates, blood pressure and body temperature as well as seizures.

Anti-diabetics

Many oral diabetes treatments—including glipizide and glyburide—can cause a major drop in blood sugar levels of affected pets. Clinical signs of ingestion include disorientation, lack of coordination and seizures.

Vitamin D derivatives

Even small exposures to Vitamin D analogues like calcipotriene and calcitriol can cause life-threatening spikes in blood calcium levels in pets. Clinical signs of exposure—including vomiting, loss of appetite, increased urination and thirst due to kidney failure—often don't occur for more than 24 hours after ingestion.

Baclofen

Baclofen is a muscle relaxant that can impair the central nervous systems of cats and dogs. Some symptoms of ingestion include significant depression, disorientation, vocalization, seizures and coma, which can lead to death.

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ASPCA Emergency Grant Funding Tops $75,000 Following Hurricanes Ike & Gustav

The ASPCA^® (The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals^®) has dispersed and pledged more than $75,000 in grant funding to organizations in Texas and Louisiana following Hurricanes Ike and Gustav, in addition to deploying a team of disaster response experts to assist both states in dealing with the aftermath of animal and animal agency casualties.

The grant funding covers recovery costs, as well as transportation assistance, distribution of food and supplies, and other needs.

“Thanks to the kindness and generosity of our supporters, the ASPCA is able to offer grants and emergency funds to assist organization affected by both Hurricanes Ike and Gustav,” said ASPCA President and CEO Ed Sayres. “Over the years, these organizations have shown exceptional commitment and dedication the animals in their care, and we are happy to be able to provide assistance during their time of need.”

In the aftermath of Hurricane Ike, the ASPCA has already pledged more than $25,000 in pre-assessment grants to the following organizations:

• Animal Aid of Vermillion Parish in Louisiana, for recovery and supplies;
• Walter Ernst Foundation of the Louisiana Veterinary Medical Association, for equine hay drops in southwest Louisiana;
• Habitat for Horses Inc. in Hitchcock, Texas, for emergency hay after destruction of a new barn and sheds, and for 60 horses on site and another 300 in foster care across several states;
• Hopeful Haven Equine Rescue Organization in Shreveport, Louisiana for assistance with removal of hoof stock from flooded areas in Vermillion Parish, as well as hay.

The ASPCA is working closely with the Texas State Animal Resource Team (TXSART) and other credentialed animal care agencies to assist and provide resources. ASPCA disaster team members are stationed at the Area Command Center at the Texas Animal Health Commission in Austin, Texas, and are currently providing assessments in Liberty County, just north of Galveston, one of the hardest-hit areas.

In addition to its current efforts following Hurricane Ike, the ASPCA distributed $50,000 to the following agencies following Hurricane Gustav, as well as deploying staffing and equipment, to assist animal welfare organizations on the ground. Agencies receiving emergency grants following Hurricane Gustav included:

• Wild Animal Orphanage, San Antonio, Texas, for transport assistance;
• Louisiana SPCA, New Orleans, for food and supplies provided for shelter animals as well as pets of evacuees in the surrounding community;
• Greater Birmingham Humane Society, Birmingham, Alabama, for reimbursement and assistance with gathering and transporting supplies;
• Plaquemines Animal Welfare Society (PAWS), Plaquemines Parish, Louisiana for crates and supplies to relocate animals and restock;
• Animal Rescue New Orleans for recovery, and kennel and food distribution to lower parishes;
• Humane Society of Louisiana, New Orleans, for assistance and assessments throughout Southeast Louisiana;
• Denham Springs Animal Shelter, Denham Springs, Louisiana, for recovery and kennel damage repair.

The ASPCA’s Disaster Response Team includes a veterinarian, veterinary technicians, disaster responders and sheltering professionals. The ASPCA team currently deployed is at the request of the Texas State Animal Resource Team (TXSART), which is supported by the Texas Veterinary Medical Association. Rotating teams of ASPCA will be deployed as needed throughout the assessment and recovery period.

Other agencies besides the ASPCA that are lending support to TXSART include American Humane Association, Humane Society of the United States, International Fund for Animal Welfare, Noah’s Wish, Society of Animal Welfare Administrators, United Animal Nations, and numerous local and regional groups.

The ASPCA's Disaster Response Team was created in September 2005 as a mechanism to assist with the rescue of animals in crisis during a disaster. As the need grew across the country, the ASPCA responded by deploying the teams nationwide when requested by the agency having jurisdiction.

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ASPCA Car Travel Tips

Top 10 Tips for Safe Car Travel With Your Pet

For some pet parents, a trip’s no fun if the four-legged members of the family can’t come. But traveling can be highly stressful, both for you and your animal companions. With thoughtful preparation, you can ensure a safe and comfortable trip for everyone.

Planning a road trip? Traveling with a pet involves more than just loading the animal in the back seat and motoring off—especially if you will be driving long distances or plan to be away for a long time. The ASPCA offers the following tips to help you prepare for a safe and smooth car trip:

1. Keep your pets safe and secure in a well-ventilated crate or carrier. There are a variety of wire mesh, hard plastic and soft-sided carriers available. Whatever you choose, make sure it’s large enough for your pet to stand, sit, lie down and turn around in. And P.S., it’s smart to get your pet used to the carrier in the comfort of your home before your trip.

2. Get your pet geared up for a long trip by taking him on a series of short drives first, gradually lengthening time spent in the car. And please be sure to always secure the crate so it won’t slide or shift in the event of a quick stop.

3. Your pet’s travel-feeding schedule should start with a light meal three to four hours prior to departure. Don’t feed your furry friend in a moving vehicle—even if it is a long drive.

4. Never leave your animal alone in a parked vehicle. On a hot day, even with the windows open, a parked automobile can become a furnace in no time, and heatstroke can develop. In cold weather, a car can act as a refrigerator, holding in the cold and causing the animal to freeze to death.

5. What in your pet’s traveling kit? In addition to travel papers, food, bowl, leash, a waste scoop, plastic bags, grooming supplies, medication and a pet first-aid kit, pack a favorite toy or pillow to give your pet a sense of familiarity.

6. Make sure your pet has a microchip for identification and wears a collar with a tag imprinted with your home address, as well as a temporary travel tag with your cell phone, destination phone number and any other relevant contact information. Canines should wear flat (never choke!) collars, please.

7. Don't allow your pet to ride with his head outside the window. This can subject him to inner ear damage and lung infections, and he could be injured by flying objects. And please keep him in the back seat in his crate or with a harness attached to a seat buckle.

8. Traveling across state lines? Bring along your pet’s rabies vaccination record, as some states requires this proof at certain interstate crossings. While this generally isn’t a problem, it’s always smart to be on the safe side.

9. When it comes to H2O, we say BYO. Opt for bottled water or tap water stored in plastic jugs. Drinking water from an area he’s not used to could result in tummy upset for your pet.

10. If you travel frequently with your pet, you may want to invest in rubberized floor liners and waterproof seat covers, available at auto product retailers.

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ASPCA 17 Common Poisonous Plants

Lilies
Members of the Lilium spp. are considered to be highly toxic to cats. While the poisonous component has not yet been identified, it is clear that with even ingestions of very small amounts of the plant, severe kidney damage could result.

What flora should be forbidden in your home, pet parents? Dr. Steven Hansen, veterinary toxicologist & ASPCA Senior Vice President, shows you examples of the most common potentially dangerous plants.
Marijuana
Ingestion of Cannabis sativa by companion animals can result in depression of the central nervous system and incoordination, as well as vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, increased heart rate, and even seizures and coma.

Sago Palm
All parts of Cycas Revoluta are poisonous, but the seeds or “nuts” contain the largest amount of toxin. The ingestion of just one or two seeds can result in very serious effects, which include vomiting, diarrhea, depression, seizures and liver failure.

Tulip/Narcissus bulbs
The bulb portions of Tulipa/Narcissus spp. contain toxins that can cause intense gastrointestinal irritation, drooling, loss of appetite, depression of the central nervous system, convulsions and cardiac abnormalities.

Azalea/Rhododendron
Members of the Rhododenron spp. contain substances known as grayantoxins, which can produce vomiting, drooling, diarrhea, weakness and depression of the central nervous system in animals. Severe azalea poisoning could ultimately lead to coma and death from cardiovascular collapse.

Oleander
All parts of Nerium oleander are considered to be toxic, as they contain cardiac glycosides that have the potential to cause serious effects—including gastrointestinal tract irritation, abnormal heart function, hypothermia and even death.

Castor Bean
The poisonous principle in Ricinus communis is ricin, a highly toxic protein that can produce severe abdominal pain, drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, excessive thirst, weakness and loss of appetite. Severe cases of poisoning can result in dehydration, muscle twitching, tremors, seizures, coma and death.

Cyclamen
Cylamen species contain cyclamine, but the highest concentration of this toxic component is typically located in the root portion of the plant. If consumed, Cylamen can produce significant gastrointestinal irritation, including intense vomiting. Fatalities have also been reported in some cases.

Kalanchoe
This plant contains components that can produce gastrointestinal irritation, as well as those that are toxic to the heart, and can seriously affect cardiac rhythm and rate.

Yew
Taxus spp. contains a toxic component known as taxine, which causes central nervous system effects such as trembling, incoordination, and difficulty breathing. It can also cause significant gastrointestinal irritation and cardiac failure, which can result in death.
Amaryllis
Common garden plants popular around Easter, Amaryllis species contain toxins that can cause vomiting, depression, diarrhea, abdominal pain, hypersalivation, anorexia and tremors.

Autumn Crocus
Ingestion of Colchicum autumnale by pets can result in oral irritation, bloody vomiting, diarrhea, shock, multi-organ damage and bone marrow suppression.

Chrysanthemum
These popular blooms are part of the Compositae family, which contain pyrethrins that may produce gastrointestinal upset, including drooling, vomiting and diarrhea, if eaten. In certain cases depression and loss of coordination may also develop if enough of any part of the plant is consumed.

English Ivy
Also called branching ivy, glacier ivy, needlepoint ivy, sweetheart ivy and California ivy, Hedera helix contains triterpenoid saponins that, should pets ingest, can result in vomiting, abdominal pain, hypersalivation and diarrhea.

Peace Lily (AKA Mauna Loa Peace Lily)
Spathiphyllum contains calcium oxalate crystals that can cause oral irritation, excessive drooling, vomiting, difficulty in swallowing and intense burning and irritation of the mouth, lips and tongue in pets who ingest.

Pothos
Pothos (both Scindapsus and Epipremnum) belongs to the Araceae family. If chewed or ingested, this popular household plant can cause significant mechanical irritation and swelling of the oral tissues and other parts of the gastrointestinal tract.

Schefflera
Schefflera and Brassaia actinophylla contain calcium oxalate crystals that can cause oral irritation, excessive drooling, vomiting, difficulty in swallowing and intense burning and irritation of the mouth, lips and tongue in pets who ingest.

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ASPCA Assists in Tennessee’s Largest-Ever Puppy Mill Raid

The ASPCA® (The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals®) is assisting in Tennessee’s largest-ever puppy mill raid of more than 700 dogs, lending a special forensic cruelty investigation team that includes two forensic veterinarians, as well as its "Mobile Animal Crime Scene Investigation (CSI) Unit," a critical tool in the collection and processing of evidence at crime scenes.

“We are pleased to be able to lend our assistance, both in terms of human resources and equipment, in our ongoing fight against animal cruelty,” said ASPCA President and CEO Ed Sayres. “The ASPCA team is helping in all aspects of the recovery, collection, storage and documentation of animal evidence at the site. The ASPCA’s Mobile Animal CSI unit is an important component in this effort, as it offers the ability to work on-site with the necessary tools, allowing evidence to be processed more accurately and efficiently.”

The ASPCA team was deployed at the request of the Humane Society of the United States (HSUS), which led the raid, to assist in the collection of evidence for the prosecution of the criminal case. The team includes the ASPCA’s Dr. Melinda Merck, the nation’s premier forensic veterinarian and “animal CSI,” Dr. Ellen Hirschberg, and five disaster response team experts— the ASPCA’s Sandy Monterose, Allison Cardona, Felicia Earley, Eric Lee and Chris Fagan—and volunteer veterinarian Dr. Solvieg Evans.

The 747 animals discovered in the raid, which began early yesterday, were housed in various enclosures among the property’s 92 acres of hilly and rocky terrain known as Pine Bluff Kennels in Lyles, Tennessee. The farm’s owner could face criminal charges.

According to Dr. Merck, the majority of the animals are dogs, including more than 200 puppies, suffering from a general lack of husbandry, such as little to no food or water, lack of proper ventilation in enclosed areas, and feces encrusted pens. Conditions such as matting, sores, broken limbs, hernias, abscesses, and a host of other medical conditions are prevalent. Breeds observed include basset hounds, Jack Russell terriers, Pomeranians, Chihuahuas, boxers, Chow-Chows, dachshunds, Shih tzus, German shepherds, border terriers, shar-peis, pugs, Yorkshire terriers, and Great Danes. Other animals on the property include horses, burros, miniature horses, chickens, goats, parrots and purebred cats.

“This is by far one of the worst situations I have ever seen,” said Dr. Merck. “Animals are in extreme cases of neglect and illness, and some are dead. The overcrowding, unsanitary conditions, flea and parasite infestation, as well as the stress of competing for food and coping with untreated illnesses, is severe.”


For more information about puppy mills and how to fight animal cruelty, visit www.aspca.org.

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ASPCA Collection

The ASPCA® (The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals®), the nation’s oldest and most respected animal welfare organization, is proud to announce that its licensed Pet Travel & Safety Product Line will be available in 1,400 Wal-Mart stores across the country. The special product offering will run for a limited time this summer ).

The Pet Travel & Safety Product Line from the ASPCA Collection (manufactured by ALCO Consumer Products) was one of the first collections of pet care products developed under the ASPCA’s licensing initiative. Developed in close collaboration with the ASPCA’s staff of animal behaviorists and pet experts, ASPCA-branded pet travel and safety items provide solutions to enable pet parents to enhance their bond with their companions. Just as the ASPCA is the voice for companion animals, ASPCA branded pet products are “what they’d ask for, if they could”™.

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ASPCA 4th of July Tips

Pet Care

Fourth of July Safety Tips

For many people, nothing beats lounging in the backyard on the Fourth of July with good friends and family—including the four-legged members of the household. While it may seem like a great idea to reward Rover with scraps from the grill and bring him along to watch fireworks, in reality some festive foods and products can be potentially hazardous to your pets. The ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center offers the following tips:

• Never leave alcoholic drinks unattended where pets can reach them. Alcoholic beverages have the potential to poison pets. If ingested, the animal could become very intoxicated and weak, severely depressed or could go into a coma. Death from respiratory failure is also a possibility in severe cases.
  
  
• Do not apply any sunscreen or insect repellent product to your pet that is not labeled specifically for use on animals. Ingestion of sunscreen products can result in drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, excessive thirst and lethargy. The misuse of insect repellent that contains DEET can lead to neurological problems.
  
  
• Always keep matches and lighter fluid out of your pets’ reach. Certain types of matches contain chlorates, which could potentially damage blood cells and result in difficulty breathing—or even kidney disease in severe cases. Lighter fluid can be irritating to skin, and if ingested can produce gastrointestinal irritation and central nervous system depression. If lighter fluid is inhaled, aspiration pneumonia and breathing problems could develop.
  
  
• Keep your pets on their normal diet. Any change, even for one meal, can give your pets severe indigestion and diarrhea. This is particularly true for older animals who have more delicate digestive systems and nutritional requirements. And keep in mind that foods such as onions, chocolate, coffee, avocado, grapes & raisins, salt and yeast dough can all be potentially toxic to companion animals.
  
  
• Do not put glow jewelry on your pets, or allow them to play with it. While the luminescent substance contained in these products is not highly toxic, excessive drooling and gastrointestinal irritation could still result from ingestions, and intestinal blockage could occur from swallowing large pieces of the plastic containers.
  
  
• Keep citronella candles, insect coils and oil products out of reach. Ingestions can produce stomach irritation and possibly even central nervous system depression. If inhaled, the oils could cause aspiration pneumonia in pets.
  
  
• Never use fireworks around pets! While exposure to lit fireworks can potentially result in severe burns and/or trauma to the face and paws of curious pets, even unused fireworks can pose a danger. Many types contain potentially toxic substances, including potassium nitrate, arsenic and other heavy metals.
  
  
• Loud, crowded fireworks displays are no fun for pets, so please resist the urge to take them to Independence Day festivities. Instead, keep your little guys safe from the noise in a quiet, sheltered and escape-proof area at home.

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ASPCA Awarads $12,000 for Flood Victims

The ASPCA^® (The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals^®) announced it will award a $12,000 grant to the Morgan County Animal Shelter in Martinsville, Ind., following the recent and devastating floods in the state.

“This grant will assist with the care and medical treatment of more than 250 dogs and cats from the surrounding community whose owners have been displaced as a result of flooding in the area,” said ASPCA President & CEO, Ed Sayres. “It is important to us, as a national animal welfare organization, to be able to support efforts on a local level, especially in times of disaster and need. It is heartwarming that so many local shelters and humane societies are stepping up to the plate, and we are honored to support their efforts.”

According to the ASPCA’s Disaster Readiness Manager Tiffany Mahaffey, the Morgan County Animal shelter has transferred all of its adoptable animals to other parts of the country, via PetSmart Charities Rescue Waggin’, in order to house the community’s animals within the community. With the help of the ASPCA and C-Specialties, an Indiana-based animal supply company, the Morgan County Animal Shelter has been able to provide low-cost vaccines and medications to the local animals in its care.

“In addition to helping animals whose owners have been displaced,” Mahaffey said, “the ASPCA grant will help the Morgan County Animal Shelter continue to supply pet food to local Red Cross and FEMA shelters for those people who evacuated and were able to take their animals with them.”

Earlier this month, Morgan County received exceptional amounts of rain, which resulted in devastating flash floods. On June 8, National Guard troops were dispatched to Morgan County to help residents evacuate. The extensive flood damage led President Bush to declare Morgan County a federal disaster area.

Other states in the Midwest, including Iowa, Missouri and Kansas, have also been ravaged by extensive flooding, severe rain, and in some areas, tornadoes. “The ASPCA is in the process of determining how it can support other shelters as well, including the Iowa City Humane Society, and will be assisting them through the disbursement of grants,” Mahaffey said. “The ASPCA has also been donating other pet supplies, as needed, to both the Iowa City Humane Society and the Morgan County Animal Shelter.”

For more information about the ASPCA’s disaster readiness programs, please visit http://www.aspca.org/disaster

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The ASPCA offers these tips on emergency preparedness:

Disaster Alert: Protect Yourself & Your Pets

The ASPCA offers these tips on emergency preparedness:

• If you receive storm warnings, bring your pets inside and make sure they have plenty of food and water;
  
• Arrange a safe haven for your pets in the event of evacuation—do NOT leave your pets behind. Many disaster shelters cannot accept pets because of health and safety regulations, so it is vital to determine where your pets can stay ahead of time;
  
• Keep emergency pet supplies, an ASPCA “Pet Grab ’N Go Bag” (one for each pet), and travel kits handy and make sure everyone in the family knows where they are kept;
  
• Get a “Rescue Alert” sticker, which is visible to rescue workers and includes vital information about your pets and veterinarian;
  
• Choose a designated caregiver who can take care of your pet in the event you are unable.

For a detailed list of emergency and evacuation preparedness suggestions, please visit www.aspca.org/pets_emergency.

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ASPCA: PET POISON ALERT: COCOA BEAN MULCH CAN BE TOXIC TO DOGS

If your dog likes to spend his summer grazing in your garden, his treat-seeking nose may lead him to one danger in particular: the sweet-smelling, but potentially harmful cocoa bean mulch. Made of cocoa bean shells and considered desirable for its eventual degradation into organic fertilizer, this gardener’s choice can be toxic to canines if eaten in large quantities—and some dogs have been known to eat amazing amounts!

In 2007, the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (APCC) handled 26 cases of cocoa bean mulch ingestion—a third originating in California. “Dogs are attracted to the fertilizer’s sweet smell,” says Dr. Steven Hansen, ASPCA Veterinary Toxicologist and APCC Director, “but like chocolate, cocoa bean mulch can be too much for our canine companions.”

Ingestion of large amounts of cocoa bean mulch, which contains residual amounts of theobromine—a methylxanthine found in chocolate and known to be toxic to dogs—may cause a variety of clinical signs. These typically start with vomiting, diarrhea and elevated heart rate, and if large amounts are consumed, they may progress to hyperactivity, muscle tremors and possibly other more serious neurological signs.

Treatment includes administering medical-grade activated charcoal, bringing tremors under control, cardiac monitoring and preventing further exposure.

“One key point to remember is that some dogs, particularly those with indiscriminate eating habits, can be attracted to any organic matter,” says Dana Farbman, APCC Senior Manager, Professional Communications. “Therefore, if you have a dog with such eating habits, it’s important that you don’t leave him unsupervised or allow him into areas where such materials are being used.”

To avoid contact, pet parents should consider a nontoxic alternative, such as shredded pine, cedar or hemlock bark. These will keep your pooch—and your garden—healthy.

For more detailed information, please take a look at our Animal Poison Control Center online.

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ASPCA- Cat Anatomy 101

What is your cat trying to tell you?
According to the ASPCA, one way to tell is to look at what the cat body is doing.

Back To Back

Supple feline spines help make cats remarkably limber. This is because their vertebrae are flexibly connected and have cushioning disks between them, enabling your little gymnast to suddenly change direction while running and adjust himself mid-fall.



Tails Do Tell

An extension of his backbone, your cat’s tail is not only important for keeping balance during sudden maneuvers, but it communicates his mood. A greeting with tail held high indicates a friendly kitty. If his tail curves gently down and then up again at the tip, he’s most probably relaxed. Watch out for the side-to-side tail swish—this means your cat is irritated!






cat with mouth wide open

Grabbing A Bite To Eat

A feline’s 30 teeth serve a variety of functions. Twelve small incisors are efficient nibblers, used for grooming and the removal of meat from bones. The four canines, or fangs, can deliver a swift bite to his prey’s neck. Premolars and molars on upper and lower jaws work together to strip meat from the bone and chew.

Tongue Twister

The surface of a cat’s tongue is covered with hooklike, backward-pointing bristles. If used with force, the tongue can remove flesh from bone. Your civilized domestic kitty, however, most often utilizes this perfect grooming tool to keep his coat clean and neat.



Whiskers


A cat’s whiskers are sensitive information-gathering tools that are especially helpful during night explorations. At the base of each of these thick hairs are nerve endings that make the whiskers sensitive to subtle changes in the environment. When walking in the dark, your cat may extend his whiskers to the side to feel for obstructions or for slight movements, such as a breeze.


Fur Follows Function

Your cat’s coat repels water, keeps in her body heat and helps protect her from harsh elements in the environment. And of course, it’s sleek and soft shine keeps her on the permanent best-dressed list.


Claw And Order

Can you name the most powerful tools in a cat’s arsenal? Claws are used for hunting, climbing, marking and self-defense. This is why a cat spends a lot of time scratching surfaces—to remove the dulled outer layers and keep his “weapons” sharp.

Ears

Cats can detect sound in ranges a good two octaves higher than humans. They’re also especially good at detecting the source of the sound—why else do you think they come running from the other end of the house the second you pop the lid on that can of cat food?!


Talking Points

Your kitty’s affectionate and mysterious purrs, chirps and hisses can be placed into three categories: murmurs, vowels and high-intensity sounds.

* Murmurs (including purrs) are the sounds cats make with closed mouths, from grunts to short sounds of acknowledgement.
* Vowel sounds (think “Me-ow!”) are projected through a cat’s open, then gradually closing, mouth. Cats express many different meanings this way, from mating calls to bewilderment.
* High-intensity sounds, like growls, are made with open mouths, usually during emotionally charged experiences.


Eyes

Though cats can’t see in total darkness, they can see objects in dim light much more clearly than we can, needing only one-sixth the amount of light humans do. This is because feline pupils can widen to take up over 85% of the eye, allowing a maximum amount of light in for excellent night vision.


Nose

Cats use their “common scents” to communicate with other cats. Your cat may rub his cheeks against objects, people or other cats, leaving a comforting trail of facial pheromones to let other cats know he’s passed through. Wanna learn more about cats? Check out our photo essay on feline body language.

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ASPCA Emergency Preparedness

Emergencies come in many forms, and they may require anything from a brief absence from your home to permanent evacuation. Each type of disaster requires different measures to keep your pets safe. The best thing you can do for yourself and your pets is to be prepared.

Step 1 Get a Rescue Alert Sticker
This easy-to-use sticker will let people know that pets are inside your home. Make sure it is visible to rescue workers, and that it includes 1) the types and number of pets in your household; 2) the name of your veterinarian; and 3) your veterinarian's phone number. If you must evacuate with your pets, and if time allows, write "EVACUATED" across the stickers.

To get an emergency pet alert sticker for your home, please fill out our online order form; please allow 6-8 weeks for delivery. Your local pet supply store may also sell similar stickers.

Step 2 Arrange a Safe Haven
Arrange a safe haven for your pets in the event of evacuation. DO NOT LEAVE YOUR PETS BEHIND. Remember, if it isn't safe for you, it isn't safe for your pets. They may become trapped or escape and be exposed to numerous life-threatening hazards. Note that Red Cross disaster shelters will not accept pets because of health and safety regulations, so it is imperative that you have determined where you will bring your pets ahead of time:

- Contact your veterinarian for a list of preferred boarding kennels and facilities.
- Ask your local animal shelter if they provide emergency shelter or foster care for pets.
- Identify hotels or motels outside of your immediate area that accept pets.
- Ask friends and relatives outside your immediate area if they would be willing to take in your pet.

Step 3 Emergency Supplies and Traveling Kits
Keep an Evac-Pack and supplies handy for your pets. Make sure that everyone in the family knows where it is. This kit should be clearly labeled and easy to carry. Items to consider keeping in or near your pack include:

- Pet first-aid kit and guide book (ask your vet what to include, or visit the ASPCA Store to buy one online)
- 3-7 days' worth of canned (pop-top) or dry food (be sure to rotate every two months)
- Disposable litter trays (aluminum roasting pans are perfect)
- Litter or paper toweling
- Liquid dish soap and disinfectant
- Disposable garbage bags for clean-up
- Pet feeding dishes
- Extra harness and leash (Note: harnesses are recommended for safety and security)
- Photocopies of medical records and a waterproof container with a two-week supply of any medicine your pet requires (Remember, food and medications need to be rotated out of your emergency kit—otherwise they may go bad or become useless.)
- Bottled water, at least 7 days' worth for each person and pet (store in a cool, dry place and replace every two months)
- A traveling bag, crate or sturdy carrier, ideally one for each pet
- Flashlight
- Blanket (for scooping up a fearful pet)
- Recent photos of your pets (in case you are separated and need to make "Lost" posters)
- Especially for cats: Pillowcase or EvackSack, toys, scoopable litter
- Especially for dogs: Long leash and yard stake, toys and chew toys, a week's worth of cage liner.

You should also have an emergency kit for the human members of the family. Items to include: Batteries, duct tape, flashlight, radio, multi-tool, tarp, rope, permanent marker, spray paint, baby wipes, protective clothing and footwear, extra cash, rescue whistle, important phone numbers, extra medication and copies of medical and insurance information.

Step 4 Choose “Designated Caregivers”
This step will take considerable time and thought. When choosing a temporary caregiver, consider someone who lives close to your residence. He or she should be someone who is generally home during the day while you are at work or has easy access to your home. A set of keys should be given to this trusted individual. This may work well with neighbors who have pets of their own—you may even swap responsibilities, depending upon who has accessibility.

When selecting a permanent caregiver, you’ll need to consider other criteria. This is a person to whom you are entrusting the care of your pet in the event that something should happen to you. When selecting this "foster parent," consider people who have met your pet and have successfully cared for animals in the past. Be sure to discuss your expectations at length with a permanent caregiver, so he or she understands the responsibility of caring for your pet. Click here for information about pet trusts.

Step 5 Evacuation Preparation
If you must evacuate your home in a crisis, plan for the worst-case scenario. If you think you may be gone for only a day, assume that you may not be allowed to return for several weeks. When recommendations for evacuation have been announced, follow the instructions of local and state officials. To minimize evacuation time, take these simple steps:

- Store an emergency kit and leashes as close to an exit as possible.
- Make sure all pets wear collars and tags with up-to-date identification. Your pet's ID tag should contain his name, telephone number, and any urgent medical needs. Be sure to write your pet's name, your name and contact information on your pet's carrier.
- The ASPCA recommends microchipping your pet as a more permanent form of identification. A microchip is implanted in the animal's shoulder area, and can be read by scanner at most animal shelters.
- Always bring pets indoors at the first sign or warning of a storm or disaster. Pets can become disoriented and wander away from home during a crisis.
Consider your evacuation route and call ahead to make arrangements for boarding your pet outside of the danger zone at the first sign of disaster.

Step 6 Geographic and Climatic Considerations
Do you live in an area that is prone to certain natural catastrophes, such as tornadoes, earthquakes or floods? If so, you should plan accordingly.

- Determine well in advance which rooms offer safe havens. These rooms should be clear of hazards such as windows, flying debris, etc.
- Choose easy-to-clean areas such as utility rooms, bathrooms, and basements as safe zones.
- Access to a supply of fresh water is particularly important. In areas that may lose electricity, fill up bathtubs and sinks ahead of time to ensure that you have access to water during a power outage or other crises.
- In the event of flooding, go to the highest location in your home, or a room that has access to counters or high shelves where your animals can take shelter.

If emergency officials recommend that you stay in your home, it's crucial that you keep your pets with you. Keep your Evac-Pack and supplies close at hand. Your pets may become stressed during the in-house confinement, so you may consider crating them for safety and comfort.

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ASPCA KEEP VACATIONING PETS SAFE WITH OUR AIR & ROAD TRAVEL TIPS

Your summer vacation’s almost here—and for some pet parents, traveling’s no fun if the four-legged members of the family can’t come along. But without thoughtful preparation, going on the road or flying can be highly stressful, both for you and your animal companions. Before you embark on your journey, the ASPCA would like to offer a few helpful hints.

* Please visit your veterinarian before traveling to make sure your pet is up to date on vaccinations and has all the medications he needs. Also ask about parasites or other health risks native to your destination.
* Your pet should always wear a collar and ID tag clearly stating an address or phone number where you can be reached—that includes cell phone number and destination info.
* Always bring plenty of plastic jugs filled with bottled or tap water from home. Drinking water she’s not used to could upset your pet’s stomach. If flying, freeze water in a bowl the night before. It won’t spill during loading and it’ll melt by the time she’s thirsty.
* Fly your pet in a USDA-approved shipping crate large enough for her to comfortably stand, sit and turn around in. Write “Live Animal” in large letters on at least two sides of the crate, and draw arrows indicating the crate’s upright position. (Of course you should ask the airline if small animals can fly with you in the cabin.)
* If driving, never leave your pet in a parked automobile. On a hot day, even with the windows open, a stationary vehicle can become a furnace in no time, and heatstroke can develop.

To ensure your trip is a good one, please read our complete air and road travel tips. Wanna get off to a safe and stylish start? Check out the ASPCA’s special line of travel gear for pets. Bon voyage!

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ASPCA:animal cruelty

What constitutes animal cruelty?

Animal cruelty occurs when someone intentionally injures or harms an animal or when a person willfully deprives an animal of food, water or necessary medical care. Here are some signs that may indicate abuse or neglect:

• Tick or flea infestations
• Wounds on the body
• Patches of missing hair
• Extremely thin, starving animal
• Limping
• An owner striking or otherwise physically abusing an animal
• Dogs who are repeatedly left alone without food and water, and often chained in a yard
• Dogs who have been hit by cars—or are showing any of the signs listed here—and have not been taken to a veterinarian
• Dogs who are kept outside without shelter in extreme weather conditions
• Animals who cower in fear or act aggressively when approached by their owners

What constitutes federal cruelty to animals?

There is no federal cruelty law—and technically, there cannot be. Animal cruelty is dealt with on the state level because the United States Constitution limits the areas in which Congress can pass federal laws applicable nationwide (Article 1, Section 8), and instructs that everything else is up to individual states to handle.

The U.S. Congress’s broadest Constitutional power is over activities that impact or affect international and interstate commerce. Acts of animal cruelty typically occur in a fixed place, and probably cannot be interpreted to impact interstate commerce—not yet, anyway—so the federal government has no jurisdiction over them. Some exceptions to the rule are federal laws involving the transportation of animals across state lines, such as the Animal Fighting Prohibition Enforcement Act.

The growth of Internet commerce has led to another exception—the federal government's "Crush Act," which provides punishment, ranging in severity from a fine to five years in prison, for the display of acts of cruelty and sexual abuse intended for interstate commerce.

How to Report Animal Cruelty

What information should I have on hand when I make a report of animal cruelty?

Try to gather the following information before submitting a report of animal cruelty:

• A concise, written, factual statement of what you observed—giving dates and approximate times whenever possible—to provide to law enforcement.
• Photographs of the location, the animals in question and the surrounding area. However, please do not put yourself in danger! Do not enter another person’s property without permission, and exercise great caution around unfamiliar animals who may be frightened or in pain.
• If you can, provide law enforcement with the names and contact information of other people who have firsthand information about the abusive situation.

Remember, never give away a document without making a copy for yourself!

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ASPCA Puppy Mills Tips

Puppy Mills

Thinking of getting a dog this year? We’ve all been tempted by that cute little puppy in the pet store window. Before you give in to the temptation and buy that furry bundle of joy, there are some things you should know. For one, that cute little puppy most likely came from a large-scale, substandard commercial breeding operation, commonly known as a puppy mill. Puppy mills usually house dogs in overcrowded and often unsanitary conditions, without adequate veterinary care, food, water and socialization. The breeding stocks at puppy mills (possibly your new puppy’s mom and dad) are bred as often as possible in order to increase profits. Unlike your lucky puppy, the mom and dad will probably never make it out of the mill. Harsh Realities The result? By buying a pet shop puppy, not only are you likely perpetuating and supporting a cruel industry, you—the consumer—run the risk of taking home a sick puppy! Dogs from puppy mills have been reportedly diagnosed with ailments such as respiratory infections and pneumonia, as well as hereditary defects like hip dysplasia. They may also be poorly socialized to people and other animals. Also, your new “purebred” puppy might not really be a purebred. Dogs at puppy mills are often bred indiscriminately, and lineage records are sometimes falsified to misrepresent that the dog is a purebred, when in fact, the animal is a mixed breed. Responsible breeders do not sell their dogs through pet stores. How You Can Help If you’re looking to make a puppy part of your family, check your local shelters first. There are so many amazing dogs who need homes. If your heart is set on a specific breed, keep in mind that one in four shelter dogs is a purebred. Additionally, you can do an Internet search for breed-specific rescue organizations. If those attempts still don’t give you the purebred puppy you’re looking for, you’ll need to learn how to choose a responsible breeder.

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ASPCA Responds to Public Concern Over Alleged Animal Cruelty by Costa Rican Artist

ASPCA Responds to Public Concern Over Alleged Animal Cruelty by Costa Rican Artist

ASPCA Media Contact

NEW YORK, April 24, 2008—The ASPCA^® (The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals^®) today released a statement in response to the tremendous outpouring of public concern over an alleged 2007 art exhibition by Costa Rican artist Guillermo Habacuc Vargas, in which the artist reportedly chained a dog to a corner of a gallery, leaving the dog to slowly starve to death without any food or water.

Online “chatter” and public outcry regarding this incident has increased steadily over the last several weeks after many Web sites have reported that this artist is planning future exhibitions. Many have wondered whether the stories or images are real.

“While this incident reportedly took place in Nicaragua and the facts are difficult to determine, it is horrifying that a member of the global art community would even contemplate deliberately starving and killing a defenseless animal in the name of art,” said ASPCA President & CEO Ed Sayres.

“The ASPCA is opposed to cruelty to animals of all types, in all societies,” continued Sayres. “However, it is also not the policy of the ASPCA to condemn entire communities or countries for the cruel acts of individuals. What we need to do collectively is to step up our efforts to educate the public on the humane treatment of animals, so that such events do not occur again.”

The ASPCA’s scope of work encompasses the United States. The organization is a member of WSPA (The World Society for the Protection of Animals) and supports their positions on international animal welfare-related issues. According to ASPCA discussions with WSPA officials, when Vargas was invited to compete in an art show in Honduras this year, WSPA and member society the Honduras Association for the Protection of Animals and their Environment (AHPRA) acted to ensure this cruelty could not be repeated by any artist. WSPA has also indicated to the ASPCA that it will strengthen its efforts to enact stronger animal protection laws in Nicaragua.

The ASPCA asks its supporters everywhere to advocate on behalf of animals through their own actions, whether that be by staying abreast of international animal welfare issues via information provided by WSPA, supporting national or local animal welfare organizations, or educating others in your own community on how to detect, and fight, animal cruelty.

To join the ASPCA in its ongoing fight for the humane treatment of animals, please visit http://www.fightcruelty.org/ and take our pledge to help fight animal cruelty.

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ASPCA launch of Henry’s Book Club!

We’re thrilled to announce the February 2008 launch of Henry’s Book Club! We’ll be spreading the joy of reading and teaching kids what it means to be humane through the pages of our ASPCA Henry Bergh Children’s Book Award winners.

Fast Facts:

What: Henry’s Book Club, developed by ASPCA Humane Education experts for bookworms aged 5 through young adult.

Who: The club is named in honor of Henry Bergh, who founded the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals in 1866. Born to a wealthy family and appointed by President Lincoln as a diplomat to Russia before starting the ASPCA, Bergh was a familiar figure on the streets of New York, donning a top hat (hence our mascot’s headwear!) and elegant attire while watching out for abuses against animals.

Why: Henry’s Book Club aims to help children develop literary and language skills. Through the club, they’ll meet new people, be exposed to other’s ideas and perspectives, gain a deeper understanding of books and learn to analyze what they read. Participation also encourages critical thinking and problem-solving.

Where: We’re encouraging parents and teachers to help kids all over the country start their own Henry’s Book Clubs in their local communities, and we’ve also developed a virtual club for older readers to discuss books online in the ASPCA Online Community.

When: Every month, Henry’s Book Club will feature two books for kids—one for ages 5 to 8 and one for ages 9 and up. Teens can visit the ASPCA Online Community to find and discuss their book of the month.

How: Teachers and parents can read our start-up guide online for info on organizing a club. The ASPCA will provide a brief description of each book, polls, quizzes and a list of discussion questions for use at club meetings. Authors will also be featured as special guests and provide questions that can be included during club meetings.

For more information:

Just for Teens (13 & Up)
Join Henry’s Book Club online! Visit the ASPCA Online Community to see our featured book of the month. After you read the book, you can discuss what you liked and didn’t like about it with other teens across the country. We’ll also be hosting live chats with the authors!

Just for Kids (5 to 12 Years Old)
Visit ASPCA Animaland to learn how you can start your very own book club with your friends! We’ve picked out the books for you—one for ages 5-8 and one for ages 9 & up—and have some ideas on what you can talk about in your meetings.

Parents and Teachers
Want to make a difference? We’ll tell you everything you need to organize a group of children who share an interest in animals and are dedicated to reading books.

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ASPCA Tips; FIGHT ANIMAL CRUELTY

FIGHT ANIMAL CRUELTY
Top 10 Ways to Prevent Animal Cruelty

If you're a fan of the award-winning reality series Animal Precinct, then you've already seen the ASPCA Humane Law Enforcement's Supervisory Special Investigator Annemarie Lucas in action. But did you know that you, too, can help crack down on animal cruelty in your own community? Read on for Officer Lucas's take on making the world a safer place for animals:

1. Be aware. Without phone calls from the concerned citizens who report cruelty in their neighborhoods, we wouldn't know about most instances of animal abuse. It all comes from the public, it all starts with YOU—that's why it's so important to keep your eyes and ears open. Get to know and look out for the animals in your neighborhood. By being aware, you're more likely to notice, for example, that the dog next door who was once hefty has lost weight rapidly—a possible indicator of abuse.

2. Learn to recognize animal cruelty. Here are some signs and symptoms that we see in many of the cases we investigate:

* Tick or flea infestations. Such a condition, if left untreated by a veterinarian, can lead to an animal's death.
* Wounds on the body.
* Patches of missing hair.
* Extremely thin, starving animals.
* Limping.
* An owner striking or otherwise physically abusing an animal.
* Dogs who are repeatedly left alone without food and water, often chained up in a yard.
* Dogs who have been hit by cars-or are showing any of the signs listed above-and have not been taken to a veterinarian.
* Dogs who are kept outside without shelter in extreme weather conditions.
* Animals who cower in fear or act aggressively when approached by their owners.

3. Know who to call to report animal cruelty. We're lucky here at the ASPCA in New York City, because we have Humane Law Enforcement officers who have the power to investigate and arrest perpetrators of animal cruelty in the state of New York. But every state and even every town is different. In some areas, you may have to rely on the police department to investigate animal cruelty; in others, you may have to contact local animal control or another municipal agency. If you aren't sure where to report cruelty visit our Report Animal Cruelty section.

4. Provide as much as information as possible when reporting animal cruelty. The details that you provide can go a long way toward assisting the investigating officer. It helps to write down the type of cruelty that you witnessed, who was involved, the date of the incident and where it took place.

5. Call or write your local law enforcement department and let them know that investigating animal cruelty should be a priority. Animal cruelty is a CRIME—and the police MUST investigate these crimes.

6. Know your state's animal cruelty laws. These vary from state to state, and even from city to city. You can visit the ASPCA's online database of more than 550 animal cruelty laws—and their penalties—in all 50 states.

7. Fight for the passage of strong anti-cruelty laws on federal, state and local levels by joining the ASPCA Advocacy Brigade. It's frustrating when I have built a strong case against someone who has been arrested for cruelty to animals and the judge treats it like a simple violation. But with stronger laws, they'll be more likely to receive tougher penalties. As an ASPCA Advocacy Brigade member, you'll receive emails asking you to write letters encouraging your legislators to pass these laws-and you can send them directly from our website.

8. Set a good example for others. If you have pets, be sure to always show them the love and good care that they deserve. But it's more than just food, water, and adequate shelter. If you think your animal is sick, bring him to the veterinarian. Be responsible and have your animals spayed or neutered. And I always give my own pets lots of hugs when I get home!

9. Talk to your kids about how to treat animals with kindness and respect. I regularly see children in homes where animal abuse has been reported. If a parent isn't treating the family's pets right, I tell kids that their dog or cat would really appreciate fresh water every day, or if they spent some time playing with them. If the animal has been left outside without shelter, I'll say, 'You have a nice house, and if you get cold, you can put a coat on. But your dog can't do that. Don't you think he'd like a nice warm place to go, too?' I know of families who watch Animal Precinct together, and I think this can help children understand that animals are living creatures who have the ability to feel pain, joy and sadness. You can see these emotions on the faces of the animals on the show.

10. Support your local shelter or animal rescue organization. Before I even knew that police for animals existed, I was volunteering at an animal shelter. It's a great way to make a difference. Some of our ASPCA volunteers foster animals who have been abused in their former homes, giving these dogs and cats the chance they deserve to have a good life. You can find a list of shelters and rescue groups in your area in our National Shelter Directory.

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ASPCA Day

Top 10 Ways To Celebrate ASPCA Day!

April 10 is almost here—and we hope you’ll join us next Thursday in celebrating the ASPCA’s victories on behalf of animals and the joy they bring to pet parents everywhere. Weren’t able to finish knitting those matching orange sweater-and-bootie sets for your canine clan? No worries—we’ve got a list of ten easy and effective things you can do to show you care about animals—on ASPCA Day and every day!

1. Wear Something Orange!
Open your closet and get out those bright orange pants, shirts, ties, shoelaces and socks that you never wear because you don’t think they match anything. That’s a fashion myth we’d like to dispel—everyone looks great in orange! And when people compliment you on your awesome outfit, tell ‘em that by wearing orange—the ASPCA’s official color—on April 10, you’re showing the world that you care about animals and support the ASPCA’s efforts to protect them. P.S. What do you mean, you don’t have anything orange?! Check out the ASPCA Day Store for some bright ideas.

2. Send an ASPCA Day eCard
Total effort this one takes? Just a few clicks of the mouse! Simply choose one of our ten cards and we’ll email the card to whomever you’d like, whether it’s your mom in Idaho or every dog-obsessed friend you’ve got on your electronic mailing list! You can even include a message if you want to add that personal flair.

3. Hang Up an ASPCA Day Poster
Another simple way to spread the word—let our posters do the talking! Download our specially designed ASPCA Day posters and hang them up in high-trafficked areas and businesses around your neighborhood. How about your local pet supply store, vet’s office, community center or library?
- City Version (.pdf)
- Suburb Version (.pdf)

4. Help Us Paint the Big Apple Orange!
If you’ll be in New York City on April 10, Union Square is the place to be from 4:00 P.M. to 8:00 P.M. You’ll get to meet our adorable, adoptable animals, enjoy live music and meet the ASPCA’s animal cops from Animal Planet's Animal Precinct...and lots more! We hope you’ll stay ‘til sundown, when buildings around the neighborhood—and throughout the city—will light up in ASPCA orange.

5. Pay Your Bills
You can show your support for animals with every check you write! Our ASPCA checks from Checks In The Mail feature adorable dogs and cats (your choice), and you can purchase matching address labels, too. In recognition of ASPCA Day, you’ll receive a $2 discount on checks if you order by April 30.

6. Take Our Pledge to Fight Animal Cruelty
What better way to celebrate ASPCA Day than renewing your commitment to protecting animals and taking the pledge to fight animal cruelty? Just a click will help you learn how to identify and report abuse, stay up-to-date on the latest animal cruelty news and learn how to write letters to your legislators in the name of animals.

7. Let Your Money Do the Talking!
How to help after all your orange gear has been put away? Show your support every day with the ASPCA credit card. By using the card, you are supporting efforts to prevent animal cruelty. Please note that Chase donates $75 to the ASPCA for all new accounts that are used and kept open for at least 6 months. Apply here.

8. Talk to An ASPCA Animal Cop
ASPCA Day is a time to celebrate our victories on behalf of animals, and many of these victories result from the lifesaving work of our ASPCA Humane Law Enforcement officers. You’ve probably seen them in action on Animal Planet’s hit series, Animal Precinct, and now’s your chance to talk with ASPCA Supervisory Special Investigator Annemarie Lucas firsthand! Find out how you can prevent animal cruelty next Tuesday, April 8, when Officer Lucas will be hosting a live, online chat at our ASPCA Online Community from noon to 2:00 P.M., EST.

9. Rise and Shine…
Hey New Yorkers, how early are you willing to wake up to help animals? We're looking for volunteers to attend the morning news show on April 10 wearing orange and holding posters. We’ll be meeting at 6:00 A.M. at:
- The Today Show (NBC), corner of 49th St. and Fifth Ave.

10. Enter the 2008 ASPCA Day Community Leader Contest
The prize: an all-expenses-paid, three-day trip to New York City, a year’s supply of pet food, a gift basket and tour of ASPCA headquarters, which includes a meet-and-greet with Animal Precinct officers and Ed Sayres, ASPCA President & CEO.

How to win it? Enter the second annual ASPCA Community Leader contest, sponsored by Iams^® Dog and Cat Foods! Starting April 11, show us what you did to spread awareness of the importance of preventing cruelty to animals in your community. You’ll find more details here.

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ASPCA Provides Tips for Pet Lovers with Allergies

Here are some of the ways animal lovers can make this allergy season sneeze-free:

* Spend time with furry friends. If you are unsure whether you or your family members have pet allergies, spend time in the home of pet-owning friends before adopting a dog or cat. “If a family member does have allergies, it doesn't necessarily mean you cannot have a pet,” says Dr. Hansen. “If you suspect that you or a member of your family has allergies, take them to a specialist who will determine the exact cause of your symptoms and help alleviate them.” Medications and immunotherapy (de-sensitizing shots) can often allow you and your companion animal to live happily together.
* Create an allergen-free room. A bedroom is often the most practical choice to do this, recommends Dr. Hansen. “By preventing your pet from entering this room, you can ensure at least eight hours of freedom from allergens every night. It’s also smart to use hypoallergenic bedding and pillow materials.”
* Limit fabrics in your home. Allergens collect in rugs, drapes and upholstery, so do your best to limit or eliminate them from your home. If you choose to keep some fabrics as part of your décor, steam-clean them regularly.
* Make sure your home is clean. Clean the litter box frequently, using low dust, perfume-free filler—clumping litter is a good choice. Dr. Louise Murray, Director of Medicine at the ASPCA Bergh Memorial Animal Hospital, says, “Vacuum frequently using a vacuum equipped with a HEPA (high-efficiency particulate arresting) filter or a disposable electrostatic bag. An air purifier fitted with a HEPA filter can also make a big difference in removing allergens from the air, but remember to still let in some fresh air daily.”
* Clean your pet, too! Both Drs. Hansen and Murray remind pet parents that bathing your pet removes allergens that accumulate in fur. “Be careful, though, not to do this too often,” says Dr. Murray, “as frequent bathing can dry out your pet’s coat.” You can also wipe your pet with a product formulated to prevent dander from building up and flaking off into the environment. Ask your veterinarian to suggest one that is safe to use on animals who groom themselves. Brushing or combing your pet frequently also helps to keep allergens at bay.
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