In This Issue:
July-- Pawsitively Pets-- 1
A Note From The Editor:
It ' s easy to become angry when you see an animal being neglected. But before judging, it ' s worth asking whether the owner truly understands that what they ' re doing is harmful to their pet ' s well-being. In parts of Switzerland, Germany, and Austria, prospective dog owners are required to take a test, complete a mandatory training course, or earn a certificate before a dog ever sets its paws in their home. Several cities and regions around the world also require owner education or behavior classes after a dog has bitten someone or when certain higher-risk breeds are involved. While some people may bristle at the idea of any such mandated education, many animal advocates believe these measures could prevent problems and potential heartbreak- for owners, pets, and the community. Already this summer, headlines and social media have been filled with stories of loose pets, animal attacks, and dogs left in hot cars. Animal wardens and police are regularly called to respond to these sad- and often avoidable- situations. Remember that old saying about babies and pets- " They don ' t come with owner ' s manuals." Maybe they should! Consider this: on a comfortable 70-degree day, the temperature inside a parked vehicle can soar to about 116 degrees within an hour, even with the windows cracked. Those conditions can quickly lead to heatstroke, brain damage, or death for a child or pet trapped inside. While it may not be illegal to leave your pet in a parked car in Pennsylvania, you have to wonder why anyone would knowingly expose a beloved companion to such danger. Perhaps some owners simply don ' t realize the risks. If that ' s the case, it strengthens the argument that basic education on responsible pet ownership could make a real difference. By treating dog ownership as a learned responsibility rather than a spur-of-the-moment decision, European countries that require owner education have been credited with helping reduce dog bites, neglect, and abandonment. The idea is simple: owning a pet is a privilege that comes with responsibilities. A little education before bringing one home could save countless pets from suffering- and spare families and communities from preventable heartbreak. After all, no one should have to pay the price for an owner ' s lack of preparation- especially the dog.
- Karyn Stratton
In This Issue:
Pet Calendar of Events........................................... page 2 Upcoming Pet Events............................................. page 3 Around the Hydrant: News You Can Use............. page 4 Feline Leukemia Virus........................................... page 4 Cats That Travel...................................................... page 5 Health Highlights- Preventing Heat Stroke......... page 6 Breed All About It- The Golden Retriever........... page 7 Cute & Crazy Critters............................................. page 8 Adoption: A Loving Option.................................. pages 10, 11 Pawsitively Delicious.............................................. page 12 Ask The Groomer- Painting A Dog ' s Toenails.... page 13 Win A Bark Box Plush Dog Toy............................. page 13 Water Dangers For Pets.......................................... page 14 Subscriptions- Let Us Fetch Your Next Copy....... page 15
On our cover: " Sawyer "
Thanks to
Tricia Starry of Fayetteville, PA
for providing us with his photo!
July-- Pawsitively Pets-- 1