Taking a ride in a horse carriage is advertised as being fun — but it’s really not any fun for the horses who are part of this “amusement.” “Ryder,” the horse in the photo, collapsed on the street, most likely from heat exhaustion and overwork. He laid there for an hour. His ribs are showing, too, which may indicate lack of nutrition or an illness. It’s time to put this “amusement” to rest. Alternative jobs are being offered to carriage drivers, and retirement to a sanctuary for the horses. If you agree, write here.
Adjust your own and your dog’s activity level when the weather is warm. For all dogs, but especially for seniors, a hot day means shorter, slower walks and more resting in the shade or in an air-conditioned room. Provide lots of access to fresh cold water — in several locations that are easily accessible. And, of course, NEVER leave any child or any dog unattended in a locked car — even when it doesn’t seem that warm outside. According to Consumer Reports, “Parents and others must remain vigilant about the ongoing danger of children and pets dying in hot cars. With many families working from home and practicing social distancing, new tactics will need to be implemented to prevent these tragedies. And as we anticipate that public health measures will remain in place through the summer, it’s important to remember that hot car deaths can be a four-season threat in some parts of the country.”
Adopting a senior dog is one way to say “No!” to puppy mills. But you can also make a statement by supporting a bill now before Congress called “Goldie’s Act.” Click here to express your support.
WOOFTRAX is a free app that enables you to earn money for your favorite animal rescue group every time you walk your dog. The more people actively walking with the free WoofTrax app, the greater the donation to your selected animal organization! Use the app each time you grab for the leash. It’s healthy for you, your dog, and your favorite shelter or rescue. Here’s the info.
According to a recent article in the Whole Dog Journal, “human grade” dog food is more digestible and has greater nutritional value than other dog foods. Read the article…..
Buoy’s Law is coming before the New York State Assembly for consideration. Inspired by the tragic death of three-year-old Golden Retriever “Buoy” the law will make it mandatory that veterinarians always provide information on a drug’s side effects when writing prescriptions. Buoy’s devastated guardians write, “Buoy was prescribed with a pain killer (Rimadyl) after his surgery, and we were not provided with any warning whatsoever that this medication was well-known to cause serious adverse side effects in dogs, including kidney damage and death.” To show your support for this law, please sign the petition.