ALLEY CAT ALLIES LAUNCHES ‘SAVE THE BIRDS’ CAMPAIGN TO FOCUS ON THE REAL THREAT TO BIRDS: HUMANS

PSA, infographics put facts in context to stand up for the birds—and for the cats

BETHESDA, MD—Alley Cat Allies, the nation’s largest advocacy organization for cats, just unveiled an educational campaign that focuses on the real threats to birds worldwide—humans and human-led activity, including habitat loss, pollution and climate change—in response to a tide of misinformation and scare tactics from so-called bird advocates that demonize cats and distort the truth.

“Blaming cats for the loss of birds is not leadership or advocacy—it is propaganda,” said Becky Robinson, president and founder of Alley Cat Allies. “Bird groups like the American Bird Conservancy (ABC) are abandoning their mission by pitting cats against birds to get headlines, and ignoring the threats that are having the most profound impacts on wildlife. We have no choice but to step in, because someone needs to set the record straight.”

The campaign features a website and a Public Service Announcement, as well as several shareable social media infographics that point out that bird deaths are attributed to a much more pervasive predator: humans. According to experts, the major causes of bird deaths are the large scale disappearance of coastal wetlands and other habitats; climate change; pesticides and other pollution; and collision with wind turbines, windows and automobiles.

Every year 70 million birds die from pesticides, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). USDA also finds that at least 100 million birds die from striking windows each year.

“In recent years, some people have misguidedly blamed cats for declining bird populations, but it isn’t the relationship between cats and birds that has changed—it’s the relationship between humans and the environment,” Robinson said. “Condemning cats is a dangerous distraction from the real threat—human impact.”

In the last decade, the number of local governments that officially endorse Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR), the only humane approach to feral cats, has increased tenfold to more than 430. Municipalities nationwide are realizing that TNR is not only humane and effective, but it also saves taxpayer dollars.

“Unfortunately groups like ABC are trying to roll back this change with scare tactics including misguided ‘legal action’ and ad campaigns,” Robinson said. “In the meantime, the most impactful threat to birds doesn’t get the attention it deserves. As an organization that values the lives of all animals, we cannot let that stand.”

The PSA, infographics and more information are available at www.alleycat.org/SaveTheBirds.

Abba Goes to the Dogs

Love animals? Love rescued pets and wish more rescues could happen? Then you'll enjoy this fun video! Help spread the word.

What to Do If You See a Pet Left Out in the Cold

by the Humane Society of the United States 

It can be a crime to leave pets outside in extreme temperatures without food and shelter

• 
  Concerned neighbors rescued Barbie and her puppies from neglect. 
  
  
  Scott Townsend

As the temperature plummets in many parts of the country, The Humane Society of the United States sees a marked increase in the number of complaints of dogs and cats left outside with no food or shelter. We encourage you to contact local law enforcement agencies, because pets left outside in extreme temperatures without food and shelter are at risk of hypothermia, frostbite, and even death, placing their owners at risk of facing criminal charges.

The act of leaving a pet outside without food or adequate shelter often receives less attention than a violent attack against an animal, but neglect is a crime. Especially in these cold months, it is important for people to bring their pets inside and for others to report neglected animals to law enforcement,” said Ashley Mauceri, The HSUS's deputy manager for animal cruelty investigations, who fields these calls.

If you see a pet left out in the cold, speak out »

Animal neglect is one of the most common forms of animal cruelty, and is investigated more by police and animal control agencies than any other form of animal abuse. Our most constant companions—dogs and cats—feel the effects of winter weather as much as we do, only they are too often cast outside to weather the storm due to a misconception that the fur on their backs will insulate them from suffering. Without proper food and water, to boot, these domesticated animals’ chances of survival in frigid temperatures is greatly decreased.

While views on animal welfare vary from region to region, laws are in place in every state to prevent needless suffering. Callers to The HSUS report numerous cases across the country of animals left out in the cold, but the organization is also working with an increasing number of law enforcement agencies that recognize the importance of intervention in these cases.

The facts
 

• Animal neglect is considered a misdemeanor crime in all 50 states and the District of Columbia.
• All but 9 states (Alabama, Alaska, Arkansas, Georgia, Kentucky, Mississippi, Nebraska, New Mexico and North Carolina) specifically require pet owners to provide adequate shelter for a pet outside, the definition of which generally includes some variation of “protection from the elements or extreme weather.”
• Felony penalties can be levied in Massachusetts and Oklahoma for any animal neglect case.
• Felony charges can be applied in animal neglect resulting in death in California, Connecticut, Florida and Washington, D.C.

 How you can help
 

• Report what you see: Take note of the date, time, exact location and the type of animal(s) involved and write down as many details as possible about the situation. Video and photographic documentation of the animal, the location, the surrounding area, etc. (even a cell phone photo) will help bolster your case.

• Contact your local animal control agency or county sheriff's office and present your complaint and evidence. Take detailed notes regarding who you speak with and when. Respectfully follow up in a few days if the situation has not been remedied.
• If you still need help, call The HSUS or email us.

IMPORTANT WARNING RE: PET JERKY TREATS

Nearly 600 pets have died and more than 3,600 have been sickened in an ongoing, mysterious outbreak of illnesses tied to jerky treats made in China, federal animal health officials said Tuesday.

Most of the cases have been in dogs of all breeds, ages and sizes — although 10 cats have been sickened, too — after eating chicken, duck and sweet potato jerky treats. The pace of the reported illnesses appears to have slowed, but federal Food and Drug Administration officials are now seeking extra help from veterinarians and pet owners in solving the ongoing puzzle.

Read the rest of the article here: http://www.nbcnews.com/health/pet-jerky-treat-mystery-nearly-600-animals-dead-still-no-8C11436330

Project Blue Collar Partners with PetHub on High Tech ID Tags

Tags help lost dogs get home faster—rescue dogs will ‘never be lost again’

CINCINNATI, OH—Project Blue Collar, a company devoted to improving the perception of shelter dogs and encourage adoption as the first option, has partnered with PetHub to launch a Project Blue Collar themed high tech dog identification tag.

PetHub dog tags provide three easy ways for your lost pet to get home faster. Each tag has a unique QR code and web address that link to your puppy pal’s free personal profile—providing crucial information about your pet, including your contact information, relevant medical information and the activation of optional $3,000 of emergency medical pet insurance coverage, if applicable. For the less tech-savvy, there is also a phone number for the 24-hour “Pet Found Hotline.”

“So many dogs end up at the shelter because they have been abandoned, surrendered or lost,” said Carole Feeny, president and co-founder of Project Blue Collar. “Once they are adopted and tagged with a PetHub/Project Blue Collar ID they’ll never be lost again.”

The Project Blue Collar branded tags retail for $16.75, with the option of a reasonably priced subscription with additional features—including email notification when your pet’s profile is accessed and GPS tracking of the location where your pet’s tag is scanned. The tags are available for purchase online at www.projectbluecollar.com.

“We are strong proponents of adoption—and proud to be a part of the Project Blue Collar movement,” said Lorien Clemens, PetHub’s Director of Marketing. “There are misconceptions associated with rescue dogs, and we can all play a part in dispelling these myths.”

Project Blue Collar’s mission is to elevate the status of rescue dogs—so they are recognized as wonderful pets and companions. Millions of dogs are put down in shelters each year due to low adoption rates and the high volume of breeders and puppy mills exploiting dogs for profit.

The company’s signature Support the Underdog® Blue Collars, which are similar to cause-related silicone wristbands, adorn a pooch’s neck to identify them as a rescue. The collars provide an opportunity for dogs and owners to show their rescue pride and share their positive adoption story. Project Blue Collar also offers an opportunity to raise money for the animal rescue community through their Shelter of the Month program. 

“The collars serve as a conversation starter to help build the movement,” said Kristin Waters, vice president and co-founder of Project Blue Collar. “Telling the story of your adopted dog inspires others to help, and encourages them to adopt, not shop, when adding a pet to the family.”

The collars, which are made in the USA, retail for $10—and are available for purchase online at www.projectbluecollar.com. Dog toys, apparel and car magnets— all aimed at raising awareness of rescue dog pride—are also available for purchase.

High resolution photos available upon request. 

###

About Project Blue CollarProject Blue Collar – Support the Underdog™ is a movement to celebrate rescue dogs and unite the communities and people who believe in their potential.  The company’s signature Blue Collars encourage adoption as the first option and offer an Opportunity for the animal rescue community to raise money through their Buy One Give one program. With each collar purchased, the movement grows and the more lives are saved. Since launching in October 2012, over 2,100 dogs have been Blue Collared in 40 states and 4 countries. Get your rescue dog (or someone else's) Blue Collared at projectbluecollar.com

About PetHub
PetHub helps lost pets get home faster by providing the most comprehensive and affordable lost pet recovery system on the market today. In 2012, 97% of PetHub recovered pets were home in less than 24 hours, 25% reunited with their families in under an hour. PetHub ID tags provide multiple ways to help lost pets get home, including QR codes linking to a free online pet profile and a 24/7 Found Pet Hotline.  Success stories can be found at www.PetHubFound.me. Awards include Dog Fancy Magazine's "Editors' Choice," Pet Business Magazine's "Industry Award," Pet Age Magazine's "Retailer Silver Select Award," and "2013 Most Innovative Product of the Year." Visit www.PetHub.tv to view some of its fan videos, including "Ullr’s Adventure."

ALLEY CAT ALLIES EXPRESSES SATISFACTION AFTER AUDUBON REMOVES AT-LARGE EDITOR FROM MASTHEAD

Announcement follows Ted Williams’ remarks on poisoning cats in Orlando Sentinel op-ed

BETHESDA, MD – Alley Cat Allies, the only national advocacy organization dedicated to the protection and humane treatment of cats, today thanked supporters for condemning the remarks made by former Audubon magazine editor-at-large Ted Williams in an Orlando Sentinel op-ed, which referenced poisoning feral cats with common household pain relievers. 

Alley Cat Allies appealed to supporters to show strength in numbers and demand that Audubon respond to the controversy. More than 31,000 Alley Cat Allies supporters responded by emailing Audubon or posting on social media urging the organization to dismiss and condemn Williams.

“In a Facebook post this weekend, Audubon announced that Williams was suspended from writing for the magazine and would be removed from Audubon’s masthead. This was the right move, and we thank our supporters for their quick action,” said Becky Robinson, president and co-founder of Alley Cat Allies. “Williams’ remarks were depraved and irresponsible. No national group advocating for the protection of animals should be associated with endorsements of pain and cruelty.”

“We are satisfied with this outcome, but we will continue to remain vigilant in challenging any support for cruelty, or for policies that would lead to more cats being killed in pounds and shelters.  Killing cats will not protect birds or any other species,” said Robinson.

# # #

About Alley Cat Allies
Alley Cat Allies is the only national advocacy organization dedicated to the protection and humane treatment of cats. Founded in 1990, today Alley Cat Allies has more than half a million supporters and helps tens of thousands of individuals, communities, and organizations save and improve the lives cats and kittens nationwide. Their website is www.alleycat.org.

THE PET MATCHMAKER™, ELAINE HENDRIX, LAUNCHES WEBSITE TO HELP ADOPTERS FIND AND KEEP THE PERFECT PET

LOS ANGELES, CA—Facing a doggie dilemma or a cat quandary? The Pet
Matchmaker™ is here to help. Elaine Hendrix—award-winning actress,
lifelong animal lover and advocate—and her team of animal experts and
experienced animal enthusiasts are providing pet parents with 
information and advice to help them find an animal friendship to last a lifetime at
www.ThePetMatchmaker.com.

“It’s important that people are realistic about their lifestyles when
choosing an animal to adopt,” says Elaine Hendrix, The Pet Matchmaker™.
“This is a new, entertaining online resource that helps people pick the
pet best suited for them, and then gives them information to care for 
that pet their entire lives.”

The site outlines practical considerations and offers plenty of
“How-To” guides for pet adopters. Information any pet parent should
keep in mind, like ‘finances’ and ‘schedule,’ is designed to help
individuals and families make matches that will stand the test of time. 
The website then helps users locate local shelters and rescue groups with
animals available for adoption in their area.

Already found your animal match? The website provides visitors with 
ongoing animal care advice, pet-centric Nancy and Sluggo cartoons, illustrated 
by Guy Gilchrist, uplifting articles from a variety of regular 
contributors and much more! The engaging and dynamic layout makes the website easy 
to navigate whether you’re searching by animal or care topic, which 
includes nutrition, grooming and training, among many others.

In the Community section, animal lovers are invited to join The Pet
Matchmaker’s social network and create a personal profile to share
stories, photos and videos of their animals and connect with other pet
enthusiasts. The Community section is also the perfect spot to 
introduce and network animals who are looking for their forever homes. Young 
animal lovers have a special section with word games, coloring pages and
activities, in addition to articles written by kids for kids. Make the
“My Pet Forever” pledge and you’ll receive a downloadable
certificate—great for teaching children about the responsibility
associated with pets and an excellent conversation starter with friends 
on the importance of keeping pets in homes and out of shelters.

As The Pet Matchmaker™, Hendrix also hosts radio’s “The Pet Care
Minute,” where she shares with listeners her insightful and effective
tips for caring for their pets and ensuring their health, happiness and
safety. Topics include ‘litter box woes’ and ‘learning to speak
dog.’ Segments are available at www.ThePetMatchmaker.com.

To learn more about Elaine Hendrix and The Pet Matchmaker™ team, please
visit www.ThePetMatchmaker.com.

# # #

About Elaine Hendrix

With over 100 film, television and stage credits, Elaine Hendrix is 
best known for her roles in such films as Disney’s “The Parent Trap,”
“Inspector Gadget 2,” “Beverly Hills Chihuahua 2,” SNL’s
“Superstar” and the cult classics “What the Bleep Do We Know” and
“Romy & Michele’s High School Reunion.” Her television appearances
include “Castle,” “The Mentalist,” “NCIS: Los Angeles,”
“Criminal Minds,” “CSI,” “CSI: Miami,” “See Dad Run,”
“90210” and two years on the critically acclaimed CBS series “Joan of
Arcadia.”

Hendrix has five rescued pets of her own, is an outspoken animal 
advocate and guest lectures on animal rights issues at universities across the
country. Hendrix serves on the board of directors for Animal Rescue 
Corps and Stray Rescue of St. Louis. She has been honored for her 
humanitarian work on behalf of animals, including a Telly Award for hosting “Pets
90210,” the Guardian Award from the National Animal Rights Conference 
and a Key to the City and Proclamation naming December 4th “Elaine Hendrix
Day” in the city of St. Louis, Missouri.

About “The Pet Care Minute”

“The Pet Care Minute” is produced and distributed by Benztown as a
keystone of its Feature Farm daily radio features offering. For more
information, visit www.benztown.com/featurefarm.

ALLEY CAT ALLIES RESPONDS TO NATURE STUDY’S CLAIMS ON CATS AND BIRDS

Calls study sensational, distorted science that relies on old or discredited research

BETHESDA, MD – Alley Cat Allies, the only national advocacy organization dedicated to the protection and humane treatment of cats, responded to a biased study on cats and wildlife published in the journal Nature , which it called a veiled promotion by bird advocates to ramp up the mass killing of outdoor cats.

“This study is part of a continuing propaganda campaign to vilify feral cats,” said Becky Robinson, president and co-founder of Alley Cat Allies.  “It seems as if the authors landed on a conclusion first and then cherry-picked through studies to support it.  Some of the research they cite is more than a half-century old.  They even cite discredited researcher Nico Dauphine, who was convicted by a D.C. jury for trying to poison cats and then fired from her job at the Smithsonian.  The researcher convicted of trying to poison cats worked for Marra, one of the authors of this study.”

“This so called ‘survey of research’ seems just another misguided attempt to draw attention to the decline of wildlife by manufacturing a fake debate.  The study conveniently sidestepped the primary culprit of decline of wildlife populations which, of course, is human activity including habitat destruction. 

“The authors also neglect to mention that their proposed ‘solution’ really endorses continuing the same failed policies of the last century which call for the mass killing of cats.  Tens of millions of healthy cats have already been killed in animal pounds and shelters, at great taxpayer expense, without achieving anything. A policy of just more killing can never be the right answer,” she said.

Robinson noted that Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) does work to end reproduction and to stabilize the population of feral cats, and that is why every year a growing number of communities turn to TNR as an innovative, compassionate and common-sense approach.  

“Because of the success of TNR—which stabilizes and then reduces the population—places where there were once large colonies of feral cats have seen those colonies fade away.  There is good reason for cities to change from ‘catch and kill’ to ‘neuter and return.’

“The threats to birds and wildlife with real impact—pollution and habitat fragmentation and destruction—are the ones without ‘easy’ answers,” said Robinson.  “Americans should not be fooled by sensational headlines and bad science.  Killing cats will not save species of birds or mammals.”

# # #

About Alley Cat Allies
Alley Cat Allies is the only national advocacy organization dedicated to the protection and humane treatment of cats. Founded in 1990, today Alley Cat Allies has more nearly than a half a million supporters and helps tens of thousands of individuals, communities and organizations save and improve the lives cats and kittens nationwide. Their website is www.alleycat.org.

Happy New Year

Happy New Year from Our Place to Paws!

Happy Holidays and an Update on Our Place to Paws

As we face 2013 at Our Place to Paws (which is really just the home office of the site's founder, Faye Rapoport DesPres), we wanted to wish everyone who checks in on the site or the blog Happy Holidays, and good wishes for the coming year.

Our original purpose in creating Our Place to Paws was to publish photography, articles, and information related to both pets and wildlife, and to nurture a community of online animal lovers. Since the early days of the website, however, the Internet has exploded with content, including many sites dedicated to animals. Most of these sites have more funding, more access to content and technology, and more staff available to keep them going. They also have advertising, something Our Place to Paws failed to attract because the humble founder never had the sales personality necessary to ask anyone for any :-).

After the initial three years, as demand for continuously changing content and updated technology such as RSS feeds, flash content, and e-commerce increased, we simply didn't have the funding or following to update the site on a regular basis. But we hope you enjoy what's there, and if there's interest, we'll update the site now and then if we can, and will at least keep the blog alive.

Our Place to Paws does have an active Facebook group with quite a few dedicated followers. So if you love animals and enjoy what you found on the site, join us on Facebook!

May 2013 be peaceful, healthy, and happy for all.