Ever since the heat wave struck my husband has been spending more time indoors than usual. Tim got down on the floor to play with Budward, something he tries to do every day because we’re painfully aware that our time together is limited and we must make the most of every moment we still have. Almost as soon as he’s settled in Jack realizes someone besides him is getting attention so he slithers in between Budward and Tim as if Tim won’t notice that suddenly there is a different dog under his hand. But almost immediately after that here comes Booger, the dog spirit that inhabits a cat body, sliding his tiny body in-between Jack and Tim, doing to Jack the very thing Jack was doing to Budward. Jack gets a little bent out of shape that Booger is usurping the place he just stole from Budward so I decided the best course of action is to let Jack outside to chase squirrels in the yard. As I’m closing the door behind Jackson I hear brrrump brrrump brrrump as the cat comes flying from the living room, around the door jamb into the office, going 90 mph while almost misjudging the storm door that is closing before his very eyes. Booger can’t stand the thought that Jack, his very best friend, is outside chasing squirrels without him. I’ve never seen anything like it before and wouldn’t believe it if I didn’t live it. I swear if we took Booger for a ride in the truck he would either be standing with his hind legs on the seat with his front paws on the dash while checking out the oncoming traffic or standing on the arm rest with his nose out the window. I know it sounds far fetched but so has everything else we’ve lived since Booger became part of the household. He likes to sit on the armrest of my recliner and pet the dogs as they come past. He never puts his claws out but sticks his paw out in time to make full body length contact as the dogs head into the living room to take their proper resting places on the various couches and chairs. According to a paper by Prof. Terkel, Tel Aviv University (2008, September 9 Dogs and Cats Can Live In Perfect Harmony In The Home, If Introduced The Right Way), in the first research ever done on this subject, when different species live together 25% of the homes reported indifference, 10% reported aggression and fighting while in the remaining homes the relationship consisted of a cat/dog detente. Prof. Terkel observed a surprising behavior. “We found that cats and dogs are learning how to talk each other’s language. It was a surprise that cats can learn to talk ‘Dog’ and vice versa. What’s especially interesting, Prof. Terkel remarks, is that both cats and dogs have appeared to evolve beyond their instincts.” Our home falls into the 65% where the animals have learned to live together in harmony and although this is something I never thought I would say now is the time to enjoy both cats and dogs in your menagerie, so go ahead and take the chance on being one of the 90% that live without aggression and fighting. You won’t be disappointed and you may find, as we have, that your life is enriched in ways you never imagined while enjoying laughter that takes your breath away while streaming tears down your face. You can find another species to begin your personal experiment in détente right now at the Randolph County Humane Society. Kittens are overabundant at this time of year so if your dog seems lonely because you’re too busy with work to spend much time at home this may be an answer to your prayers. Don’t be afraid to go outside your comfort zone and make that call to a shelter today. Who knows, maybe if enough take the leap people will also learn to get along and we may all learn to live in peace and harmony. Miracles can happen. I’ve seen it with my own two eyes, and so can you. And never forget, it is only through you that the Randolph County Humane Society continues to save lives, one by one.
Dogs and Cats and Perfect Harmony
June 27, 2009
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A dog in cat clothing
June 19, 2009Our newest experiment in household living with three high prey dogs and a house cat has been interesting, to say the least. We are now convinced that we adopted a dog in cat’s clothing because Booger acts more like a dog than a lot of dogs I come across. He settled right in, and I mean that as literally as I can. When Action Jackson lays down for a well deserved nap Booger snuggles up in the crook of his legs to get as close to him as possible. And for some unknown reason Puppy seems to think it’s okay, thankfully. Booger herds Jack through the kitchen when he thinks he’s on his way to the utility room where the cat food and cat box is kept, and Jack barks at Booger to keep him off the kitchen counters. They each have a pretty good idea of what is acceptable behavior and make sure the other doesn’t cross that line. Booger lines up at the door to go outside with the bubs, and once outside he runs the fence line, checking out his domain just as his housemates have done every day of their lives. Then he comes back to the deck and lays next to Jackson, their heads slowly moving side to side while they survey their domain to insure all is well. They look like bookends; very different bookends, but bookends none the less. Our barn cats are living the high life, stalking bugs and pouncing unsuspecting barn mates. They don’t seem to have any interest in the mice, however, their sole purpose in coming to the farm. But we don’t think it will matter in the bigger picture because we found out our chickens are great mousers. After my husband disturbed numerous mice nests while moving hay bales out of the barn the chickens were on it like they were born to the task. Life never quite turns out how I expect it to and yet all of my needs are met, just not in the manner I anticipate. However, that makes life interesting because you never know what to expect and every day is an adventure. I have always told my children and all who enter that our home is an oasis of love in a world where turmoil reigns, and that is borne out with the almost explicit understanding between the animals that enter our doors that we all work together and get along within these walls, even when that behavior isn’t the norm between species. It still never ceases to amaze me when I see the cat and dogs cuddle up for a nap, acting as if they’d been together their whole lives. Amazing things can happen if you open your heart and allow life to enter. If you have an animal and would like to bring another one into the fold but you’re unsure how it will work, the humane society will work with you in finding a new friend that will fit the bill and then allow you to give it a try before you make your final decision on adoption. When you see your dogs accept their mortal enemy, a cat, into the fold of their life and love it gives you the confidence and understanding that we can also have this in all areas of our lives if we work at it, just as they do, and make it happen rather than allow the status quo to remain. There are many, many life lessons we can learn from our animals. I have seen courtesy and cooperation at work in ways I never imagined when we first allowed Booger into our home. Add the laughter and joy they add to your days and I don’t understand why anyone would be without a household of pets to help them navigate through life. If you decide it is time for you to open yourself up to life lessons of the four legged variety there are many teachers waiting for you at this very moment at the Randolph County Humane Society and shelters across the country. And never forget, it is only through you that the RCHS is able to save lives, one by one.
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Don’t take chances with pets and summertime heat
June 13, 2009The hot weather has arrived and I felt it was important to remind us all of the dangers our pets face when the temperature rises. My husband worked with a guy whose daughter-in-law stopped by their house when the air temperature was 105 degrees in the shade. Like us, she has a hard time saying no to the dogs that think the best treat ever is a ride in the car. She was only going to be in the house for 15 minutes so she left the car running with the air conditioning on, stepping outside every so often to listen to insure the motor was running. Unfortunately, that wasn’t enough to save her three beloved pets. Something happened to the air conditioner and even though the car was running the air conditioner wasn’t producing cold air and within that 15 minute period that she was in the house the heat buildup in the car killed the dogs. She is inconsolable to this day over the loss of her beloved pets and the lesson here for the rest of us is that it just isn’t worth the price you may pay to take your pets with you when go out during extreme weather. Even sunny and 70 is too hot to leave your animals in the car. The Humane Society of the US has some tips for us, and it’s in our best interest to follow their advice because once tragedy happens you can’t undo it, so prevention is the best course of action.
The HSUS offers these tips for pet owners to keep their furry friends safe this summer:
Never Leave Your Pet in the Car
In nice weather you may be tempted to take your pet with you in the car while you travel or do errands. But during warm weather, the inside of your car can reach 120 degrees in a matter of minutes, even if you’re parked in the shade. This can mean real trouble for your companion animals left in the car. Dogs and cats can’t perspire and can only dispel heat by panting and through the pads of their feet. Pets who are left in hot cars even briefly can suffer from heat exhaustion, heat stroke, brain damage, and can even die. Don’t think that just because you’ll be gone “just a minute” that your pet will be safe while you’re gone; even an air-conditioned car with the motor off isn’t healthy for your pet. To avoid any chance that your pet will succumb to the heat of a car this summer, be sure to play it safe by leaving your pet cool and refreshed at home while you’re on the road. And if you do happen to see a pet in a car alone during the hot summer months, alert the management of the store where the car is parked. If the owner does not return promptly, call local animal control or the police department immediately.
Don’t Put Your Pet In the Back of a Truck
It is very dangerous, and in some states illegal, to drive with a dog in the back of a pick-up truck. Not only can flying debris cause serious injury, but a dog may be unintentionally thrown into traffic if the driver suddenly hits the brakes, swerves, or is hit by another car. Dogs should ride either in the cab (in a crate or wearing a seat belt harness designed for dogs) or in a secured crate in the bed of the truck.
Watch Out For Fertilizers and Deadly Plants
Summer is often a time when people fertilize their lawns and work in their gardens. But beware: Plant food, fertilizer, and insecticides can be fatal if your pet ingests them. In addition, more than 700 plants can produce physiologically active or toxic substances in sufficient amounts to cause harmful effects in animals.
Stay Bite-Free
With people and dogs spending more time outside, dog bites are likely to increase in the summer months. Spaying or neutering your dog reduces the likelihood that he will bite and provides many other health benefits.
Pet Care 101
Make sure your pet is always wearing a collar and identification tag. If you are separated from your pet, an ID tag may very well be his or her ticket home. Keep your pets on their monthly heartworm prevention medication. Heartworm disease, which is transmitted by mosquitoes, can be fatal in both dogs and cats. Another summertime threat is fleas and ticks. Use only flea and tick treatments recommended by your veterinarian. Some over-the-counter flea and tick products can be toxic, even when used according to instructions.
Water Wisdom
Pets and pools can equal disaster. Prevent free access to pools and always supervise a pet in a pool. Provide plenty of water and shade for your pets while they’re enjoying the great outdoors so they can stay cool.
Travel Tips
If you plan on traveling with your pet during the summer, take the time to prepare for your furry friends in advance. Many airlines have summer pet embargoes, and most trains and ships do not allow pets other than service animals. The HSUS has information on traveling with your pet that may make the difference between a pleasant trip and a vacation nightmare.
If You Can’t Stand the Heat…
Pets need exercise even when it is hot, but extra care needs to be taken with older dogs, short-nosed dogs, and those with thick coats. On very hot days, limit exercise to early morning or evening hours. Keep in mind that asphalt gets very hot and can burn your pet’s paws. Pets can get sunburned too, and your pet may require sunscreen on his or her nose and ear tips. Pets with light-colored noses or light-colored fur on their ears are particularly vulnerable to sunburn and skin cancer. Your pet can suffer from heat exhaustion and heat stroke. These conditions are very serious and could cause your pet to die. You should be aware of the signs of heat stress, which could include heavy panting, glazed eyes, a rapid pulse, unsteadiness, a staggering gait, vomiting, or a deep red or purple tongue. If your pet does become overheated, you need to immediately lower his body temperature. Move your pet into the shade and apply cool (not cold) water over his body to gradually lower his core body temperature. Apply cold towels or ice packs to your pet’s head, neck, and chest only. Let your pet drink small amounts of water or lick ice cubes. Most importantly, get him to a veterinarian immediately.
Play It Safe on the 4th
Don’t take your pets to crowded summer events such as concerts or fairs. The loud noises and crowds, combined with the heat, can be stressful and dangerous for pets. For your pet’s well being, leave her at home. Be especially aware of these threats during holidays, such as the Fourth of July.
Keeping our pets safe must remain first and foremost in our thoughts because the consequences of not taking care of business is the difference between life and death. If you see someone that is not taking care of their animals and the animals are suffering, please contact your local animal control office or the humane society. And never forget, it is only through you that the Randolph County Humane Society continues to save lives, one by one.
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Every day is a new day with kittens in your life
June 6, 2009During our first week after the return of the big (relatively speaking) cat to the fold, we’ve had many memorable moments but none so surprising as the fact that he is now our house cat. The three kittens are perfectly happy playing together, rolling around like they don’t have a care in the world. And I guess in the bigger picture of things they don’t have a care in the world and are extraordinarily lucky to have a bowl of food at their disposal, proper veterinary care, and a shelter that keeps them safe and comfortable. They even managed to uproot a nest of hours old mice. But Booger, the big cat, seemed to have a little more difficulty making the cut to official mouser of the big barn, the same place where all those scary chickens hang out all day. He’s been very vocal in his displeasure, but we were at a loss as to what he wanted until today. And now we know. Booger was a house cat before coming to us. After my husband brought him into the house today Booger got up into my arms and hasn’t gotten down until I put him in the chair so I could write. We brought in the cat box and he immediately went in and used it like he’d been waiting for weeks not to have to degrade himself by doing his business in the yard. I really didn’t think the three inside dogs would ever be comfortable with a feline companion, but so far things are working well. Jack needed a couple of squirts with the water bottle but considering the first thing Booger did was climb over Jack and jump up into bed with me for a nap I thought Puppy took it quite well. Budward’s bottom jaw goes 90 miles per hour like he’s trying to tell me of his extreme displeasure at having another animal in the house, and a cat no less. Dogs are one thing, but a cat? Girlie Sue hasn’t looked in his direction yet. Apparently in her world what she doesn’t see doesn’t exist. Right now he’s lying on the arm of my chair, pulsing my hand with his paws as I attempt to type. He missed out on getting a good name. They were going to be Thomasin and Senor Doncato but after he ran away the kittens got those names plus an extra for Black Bart because we had to adopt two more to keep Thomasin company. But I guess it worked out for the best since the kittens spend their days in the joy filled play of childhood. Booger is older and more mature, and he thinks he should be the only pet of the house. We did everything wrong in introducing the animals so I looked it up so I could tell all of you how to do it correctly if you should ever have the same occasion arise. According NARFrescue.org,:
- Keep your dog confined until the cat feels secure in his new home.
- Introduce them indoors with the dog under control on a leash.
- Do not allow the dog to chase or corner the cat, even out of playfulness or curiosity.
- Supervise them carefully and don’t tolerate any aggressive behavior from your dog.
- The cat should have a safe retreat, either up high or in a room inaccessible to the dog. An adult cat may swat a dog to set limits.
- Allow your animals to accept one another in their own time and don’t leave them alone together until this is accomplished.
- Never push them toward each other or force interaction. Many cats and dogs become companions and playmates while others simply tolerate each other.
- Be sure to give your dog lots of extra attention to avoid jealous reactions.
Well, I guess I’ve devoted enough time to finding out how I should be doing things and I need to get around to actually doing them. I think there are three bubs that need a lot of lovin’ so they know this new upstart isn’t going to take anything away from them but will in fact enhance our lives. It seems like the more love we have the more we have to give away, and our lives are enriched by the unconditional love of the animals that surround us and share our existence. And if you’d like to experience the joy we have in our lives make a visit to the Randolph County Humane Society where there’s plenty to go around. And never forget, it is only through you that they continue to save lives, one by one.
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