Sherry’s Corner

Animal Safety and Health–Web Sites, Books, Etc.

Most of you are aware of the fire that killed 22 Beagles. But, are you aware that the proposed dog law would mandate smoke alarms and fire extinguishers as well as exit doors in all kennels? Of course we don’t know if this would have saved one life or made a difference but the important point is that this tragedy happens all too often. The second important point is that the suggestion to add smoke alarms in kennels was made by Anne Irwin, who runs a Pennsylvania shelter. But, you won’t see her taking credit for this suggestion or asking for donations. This is the difference between animal welfare groups and animal rights organizations.

The Morris Animal Foundation has announced a canine cancer website exclusive for dog owners and lovers featuring Colorado State and Cornell Veterinary Cancer experts. The website is www.MorrisAnimalFoundation.org/ccexclusive One in 4 dogs die of cancer. Cancer is the number one cause of death in dogs over 2 years of age.

According to librarian-reviewed commentary in the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association (JAVMA), the number one website for animal health is the American Veterinary Medical Association’s page that includes Animal Health Brochures, which are available at www.avma.org/communications/brochures/animal_health.asp. The site offers online brochures for common pet health concerns as well as public health brochures and a children’s area. A close second is Petplace.com, available at www.petplace.com. This site includes consumer-friendly information and a high-quality veterinarian-created forum for pet owners.

I am often asked about books. I can’t say I agreed with any of the choices. Their number one choice in dog books was the Angell Memorial Animal Hospital Book of Wellness and Preventative Care for Dogs by Darlene Arden. Arden is not one of my favorite authors so I may be biased. Their second choice was the ASPCA Complete Dog Care Manual by Bruce Fogle. Again, I am not too delighted with Fogle. Amy Shojai has a book on the care of an aging dog that is good to look at. Also, if you can obtain an inexpensive copy, look at Essential Dog published by Readers Digest 2006. As always, check Amazon for good prices on new and used copies.

A FRIEND FOR EXERCISE

David Frei, the dog guru of Westminster fame, picked six breeds he felt would be the most suitable companions for dog owners who are into fitness. His first choice was the German Shorthaired Pointer –a breed he calls “the ultimate SUDS–sports utility dogs.” He picked the Whippet for interval training companionship for their intensity and focus. For marathons and as a year-round athlete Frei picked the Siberian Husky. He stressed their dense coat, which keeps them warm in the winter and cool in the summer. For overall speed, endurance, and energy, the Smooth Fox Terrier was one of Frei’s choices. For the best companionship in a jog the surprise choice was the Poodle and for a breed that will run circles around his human athletic owner–the Border Collie! Someone needs to get Frei’s choices of breeds that are the best exercise companions for senior citizens with and without walkers and canes!