I am writing to express my disappointment in the Animal Witness program about Michael Vick. The middle section was so extremely graphic in the footage of real dog fights that I was almost overcome with nausea. I expected more information such as the details from the case in regards to Vick crossing state lines to buy dogs, and the funding schemes of Bad Newz Kennels. I expected much more in terms of the details of how the dogs have been rehabbed. The last 20 minutes were the best in terms of demonstrating how dogs can come out of this awful situation. Perhaps more time could have been spent discussing the generalities of dog fighting. Some discussion of how laws have increased since the Vick case to help protect dogs might have been utilized. But the gratuitous violence of the dogs fighting…how is this any different than violence on crime shows? To show one dog pinning another down with blood spurting from its neck is, at the very least, needless violence. All this serves is to up the hype and to numb the viewers as to how truly awful it is. Also, why did you outline “how to host a dog fight”? You have provided an instruction manual. I am also disappointed that you included extensive interviews with PETA–who was never actually involved with the case! Also, there was an incorrect statement regarding the number of dogs sent to sanctuary–you stated 22 when it was actually 10. Please consider editing to focus more on the treatment of the dogs. This is Animal Planet – not the Sopranos!
If you would like to send them your own comment you can go to http://extweb.discovery.com/viewerrelations - you will be limited 1,500 characters so I suggest preparing something ahead of time. All that being said - the footage of Leo, former fight dog and now a therapy dog - is absolutely wonderful. And the interviews with the folks at Bad Rap show the real deal. Here's hoping that a few minds get changed this week!
Showing posts with label abuse. Show all posts
Showing posts with label abuse. Show all posts
Monday, August 25, 2008
Animal Planet "Animal Witness" Michael Vick Documentary - Not for the Faint of Heart . . .
. . .or faint of stomach for that matter.
I stayed up late last night watching this new series on Animal Planet. I read Donna's warning on the Bad Rap's blog last week and knew that I would be witnessing some rather graphic dog fighting footage. However, I was unprepared for the gratuitousness of the violence. I literally "threw up a little in my mouth" a few times. I also found myself covering the eyes of Sasha and Sparky (because in my mind this was like a horror film on crack...and even though they are dogs...I just couldn't let them "watch" it).
This morning I found a site for viewer comments to Animal Planet and posted the following statement:
Monday, July 21, 2008
Verizon's new ad
Hello everyone - haven't posted in a while, thanks to others in HELP FIDO for keeping up with the blog. You may have heard about this but Verizon Wireless has a new commercial out that shows a guy climbing a fence into a junkyard to get his cell phone and trying to avoid two pit bulls. You can see the video here. Personally, I find it outrageous and have contacted Verizon about this. Thankfully, a lot of dog owners are upset about this and the story has made the advertising magazines. To send your own views to Verizon management - here's a page with the Corporate bigwigs.
Admin edit: Marni Waldren is the regional President of the midwestern area. You can email her directly. Please make sure to let her know if you are Verizon customer. Also - BAD RAP has some nice postcards you can print out and mail in.
Friday, July 11, 2008
Shame, Shame, Shame
A local apartment complex will be added to the Wall of Shame.
Two days ago I received an urgent call for help. A man disabled by mental illness is facing immediate eviction. Is he being evicted because he is a disruptive tenant? No. Is it because he doesn't pay his rent on time? No. The reason for his eviction - his 9 1/2 year old prescribed, emotional service dog looks too much like a pit bull according to the complex manager. This dog wasn't identified or evaluated by any animal professional in order to make this determination. In fact, the dog's Vet states the dog is nothing more than a mutt. The complex manager has made this determination which will greatly impact the life of this man and his dog. (Perhaps I should ask her to do the locking jaw test)
The details of this situation makes it that more shameful. This man has lived in this apartment for NINETEEN years. The dog, who is recovering from mammary cancer and spends her days laying on the couch watching tv, has been living in this apartment for nine years. In nine years there has never been any type of aggression issues with humans or animals.
When this gentleman renewed his lease in November 2007, he thought he was renewing the same lease that he had signed for the past 18 years. The manager pointed out the changes in monthly rental fees but never mentioned the newly added breed restrictions or that his dog would be considered one of the disallowed breeds. Instead, seven months later, he is slapped with an eviction notice.
What is even more shameful - the Department of Fair Housing allows this type of treatment of disabled tenants.
Shame on you CSC Apartments and shame on you Department of Fair Housing.
Two days ago I received an urgent call for help. A man disabled by mental illness is facing immediate eviction. Is he being evicted because he is a disruptive tenant? No. Is it because he doesn't pay his rent on time? No. The reason for his eviction - his 9 1/2 year old prescribed, emotional service dog looks too much like a pit bull according to the complex manager. This dog wasn't identified or evaluated by any animal professional in order to make this determination. In fact, the dog's Vet states the dog is nothing more than a mutt. The complex manager has made this determination which will greatly impact the life of this man and his dog. (Perhaps I should ask her to do the locking jaw test)
The details of this situation makes it that more shameful. This man has lived in this apartment for NINETEEN years. The dog, who is recovering from mammary cancer and spends her days laying on the couch watching tv, has been living in this apartment for nine years. In nine years there has never been any type of aggression issues with humans or animals.
When this gentleman renewed his lease in November 2007, he thought he was renewing the same lease that he had signed for the past 18 years. The manager pointed out the changes in monthly rental fees but never mentioned the newly added breed restrictions or that his dog would be considered one of the disallowed breeds. Instead, seven months later, he is slapped with an eviction notice.
What is even more shameful - the Department of Fair Housing allows this type of treatment of disabled tenants.
Shame on you CSC Apartments and shame on you Department of Fair Housing.
Friday, July 4, 2008
4th of July Safety Tips
Hello all! Dr. Mandi here with some 4th of July safety tips for our furry canine friends. Independence Day celebrations can be great fun for us humans, but the noise, visual stimulation and multitude of BBQ leftovers and table scraps can be traumatic and harmful for dogs. By being aware and following a few simple tips, EVERYONE can have a wonderful holiday experience.
DOGS DO NOT LIKE FIREWORKS - Simple enough! Bangs, explosions, bright and flashing lights, screams of delighted children and other 4th of July noises can create confusion and fear for our furry friends. Dogs can occasionally run away from home during these festivities because they are fearful. A dogs sense of hearing is much more acute than a humans - more than 10 times as sensitive! So imagine how scary fireworks can be for them. Also, there is the possibility that some dogs could mistake fireworks for toys and attempt to run after them causing them serious injury. So it is important to KEEP DOGS INSIDE during the festivities for their protection.
KEEP DOGS AWAY FROM DOORS - Because dogs can be under significant stress during this time of year they could possibly cause unnecessary injury to visitors and could also dart out of the door and get lost. Also make sure your dog is up to date on vaccinations (especially Rabies) and has a current tag or license on his/her collar, or are microchipped in case any of these situations occur.
CREATE A SPECIAL AREA WHERE YOUR DOG FEELS SAFE - Dogs are den animals. This means they will feel safe in a kennel (dog crate) or small enclosed area like under the bed. This is why dogs hide in places like this when they are frightened. Introducing your dog to a kennel (crate) will create a feeling of safety for them and calm them. I know that my dogs feel much better during the 4th of July or thunderstorms when they are in their kennels with their toys and some fresh water. Also, it is important to try to not make a big deal about the fireworks/noise. When you treat your dog differently during these events you inadvertently reinforce fearful behavior.
KEEP TV OR RADIO ON - This will reduce the noise and bright flashes from scaring your dog.
NO TABLE SCRAPS/BONES - Although it may be tempting to share our Independence Day goodies with our furry friends this can cause some serious harm to them. Bones area ALWAYS a no-no as they can puncture internal organs or cause intestinal obstruction which can lead to serious illness or death. Any type of "human food" treats that are outside a dog's usual diet can cause vomiting and diarrhea which can lead to dehydration, low blood sugar and other serious complications, especially in small dogs. Keep a handful of your dogs treats nearby to give him/her instead of table treats.
CALL YOUR VETERINARIAN - If your dog is so fearful that he is causing himself injury or becoming ill, please call your veterinarian. Your vet may want to prescribe medication/sedative to help your dog cope with their fearfulness.
Following these simple steps can help everyone to have a safe and happy Independence Day. Everyone have a wonderful 4th of July!!
DOGS DO NOT LIKE FIREWORKS - Simple enough! Bangs, explosions, bright and flashing lights, screams of delighted children and other 4th of July noises can create confusion and fear for our furry friends. Dogs can occasionally run away from home during these festivities because they are fearful. A dogs sense of hearing is much more acute than a humans - more than 10 times as sensitive! So imagine how scary fireworks can be for them. Also, there is the possibility that some dogs could mistake fireworks for toys and attempt to run after them causing them serious injury. So it is important to KEEP DOGS INSIDE during the festivities for their protection.
KEEP DOGS AWAY FROM DOORS - Because dogs can be under significant stress during this time of year they could possibly cause unnecessary injury to visitors and could also dart out of the door and get lost. Also make sure your dog is up to date on vaccinations (especially Rabies) and has a current tag or license on his/her collar, or are microchipped in case any of these situations occur.
CREATE A SPECIAL AREA WHERE YOUR DOG FEELS SAFE - Dogs are den animals. This means they will feel safe in a kennel (dog crate) or small enclosed area like under the bed. This is why dogs hide in places like this when they are frightened. Introducing your dog to a kennel (crate) will create a feeling of safety for them and calm them. I know that my dogs feel much better during the 4th of July or thunderstorms when they are in their kennels with their toys and some fresh water. Also, it is important to try to not make a big deal about the fireworks/noise. When you treat your dog differently during these events you inadvertently reinforce fearful behavior.
KEEP TV OR RADIO ON - This will reduce the noise and bright flashes from scaring your dog.
NO TABLE SCRAPS/BONES - Although it may be tempting to share our Independence Day goodies with our furry friends this can cause some serious harm to them. Bones area ALWAYS a no-no as they can puncture internal organs or cause intestinal obstruction which can lead to serious illness or death. Any type of "human food" treats that are outside a dog's usual diet can cause vomiting and diarrhea which can lead to dehydration, low blood sugar and other serious complications, especially in small dogs. Keep a handful of your dogs treats nearby to give him/her instead of table treats.
CALL YOUR VETERINARIAN - If your dog is so fearful that he is causing himself injury or becoming ill, please call your veterinarian. Your vet may want to prescribe medication/sedative to help your dog cope with their fearfulness.
Following these simple steps can help everyone to have a safe and happy Independence Day. Everyone have a wonderful 4th of July!!
Thursday, June 26, 2008
Domestic Violence Forum 6/25
HELP FIDO members were in attendance at a public forum provided by Columbus City Councilman Hearcel F. Craig yesterday evening. It was the first of several forums, focusing on offering help to victims of domestic violence. Also speaking were:
Kristi Timbrook: Legal System Task Force Director, Columbus Coalition Against Family Violence
Anne Murray: Assistant City Attorney, Director, Domestic Violence and Stalking Unit
Detectives Gauthney and Coleman: Columbus Police Department
Columbus Police respond to over 23'00o calls and make around 5000 arrests regarding domestic violence on an annual basis. There is overwhelming evidence that animal abuse and domestic violence go hand in hand. Pets are often used by abusers as means to gain power or control over the victim. 40% of victims delay seeking help because of this. We learned that the Capital Area Humane Society has partnered with several other organizations to create a program called “Safe Haven” that assists victims of domestic violence, providing temporary foster homes for pets in these situations.
Read more about animal abuse and how it relates to domestic violence as well as the “Safe Haven” program HERE.
Realizing the relation between domestic abuse and animal abuse we (HELP FIDO) wanted to learn more about what resources are currently being implemented and are interested in showing our support, and seeing if we can assist in connecting any resources. HELP FIDO hopes to use these meetings to open lines of communication with representatives and organizations involved and will continue show our support and offer any assistance we can .
Sign up to get Columbus City Council E-mail notifications HERE.
Related Columbus City Council initiatives:
Animal Abuse and Family Violence Task Force
Preventing Domestic Violence
Anne Murray: Assistant City Attorney, Director, Domestic Violence and Stalking Unit
Detectives Gauthney and Coleman: Columbus Police Department
Columbus Police respond to over 23'00o calls and make around 5000 arrests regarding domestic violence on an annual basis. There is overwhelming evidence that animal abuse and domestic violence go hand in hand. Pets are often used by abusers as means to gain power or control over the victim. 40% of victims delay seeking help because of this. We learned that the Capital Area Humane Society has partnered with several other organizations to create a program called “Safe Haven” that assists victims of domestic violence, providing temporary foster homes for pets in these situations.
Read more about animal abuse and how it relates to domestic violence as well as the “Safe Haven” program HERE.
Realizing the relation between domestic abuse and animal abuse we (HELP FIDO) wanted to learn more about what resources are currently being implemented and are interested in showing our support, and seeing if we can assist in connecting any resources. HELP FIDO hopes to use these meetings to open lines of communication with representatives and organizations involved and will continue show our support and offer any assistance we can .
Sign up to get Columbus City Council E-mail notifications HERE.
Related Columbus City Council initiatives:
Animal Abuse and Family Violence Task Force
Preventing Domestic Violence
Friday, June 20, 2008
Heat Stroke Question
Thanks to Adam for leaving a comment regarding "Summer Safety Tips" asking: "Dr. M, regarding first aid for heat stroke, what does applying rubbing alcohol to dogs paw pads do?" .
Well Adam, dogs dispell heat from their bodies in 2 main ways. First, they pant. This is the main way for them to cool down. They also have sweat glands in between their paw pads. This is the only place on the doggie body that has a significant number of sweat glands. Placing alcohol on the paws tends to cool them down because the rapid evaporation of the alcohol helps to dissipate body heat quickly, thus helping to decrease the body's internal temperature. I hope this helps clarify things for you. Thanks for the question!!
Well Adam, dogs dispell heat from their bodies in 2 main ways. First, they pant. This is the main way for them to cool down. They also have sweat glands in between their paw pads. This is the only place on the doggie body that has a significant number of sweat glands. Placing alcohol on the paws tends to cool them down because the rapid evaporation of the alcohol helps to dissipate body heat quickly, thus helping to decrease the body's internal temperature. I hope this helps clarify things for you. Thanks for the question!!
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