Woman Lives in Dog Kennel for 30 Days
Cheryl Walker, Marion, Indiana Humane Society
After 30 days, Cheryl Walker is out of the doghouse. For real! She spent 30 days living in a four-by-seven-foot kennel in the Marion, Indiana area. She's a member of the local Humane Society's board of volunteers, and her stunt raised more than $11,000 dollars to help finance a new animal shelter. They are in desperate need of a new shelter, as their current shelter is falling apart, their well is going dry with less than 2 years left, and their septic system is collapsing.
During her stay, Cheryl's family relinquished her. The shelter personnel even created a relinquishment sheet with her species, color, cage number and personality traits. And, the mention that she will "bite" if provoked.
Unfortunately, the $11,000 is far short of the 3 million needed to build a new animal shelter. Walker says she's glad to be home. But she says she misses her four-legged kennelmates.
Find out how you can help by logging on to www.MarionHumane.com.
Hear her story on Animal Radio®

American Anti-Vivisection Society Purrs Over Closing of Pet Cloning Company
Says Animal Suffering Does Not Lead to Profit
Genetic Savings & Clone, Inc., the only company to ever sell cloned companion animals to the public, has closed its doors. The American Anti-Vivisection Society (AAVS) welcomes the news that Genetic Savings & Clone will no longer be able to capitalize on pet owners' grief with false promises to 'bring back' a beloved deceased pet in exchange for up to $50,000.

Since the inception of Genetic Savings & Clone, AAVS has led efforts to prohibit pet cloning and educate the public about the problems associated with cloned animals. Cloning is a remarkably inefficient and harmful technology. Studies highlighted on AAVS's website, www.NoPetCloning.org, report that less than four percent of cloned embryos are carried to term, and of those that survive, most die shortly after birth or suffer sever health problems and abnormalities. AAVS estimates that hundreds of animals, including surrogate mothers who underwent multiple surgeries, were required for Genetic Savings & Clone to produce just one cat for sale. In spite of that enormous cost, there is no guarantee that any cloned animal will physically match the original and even less likelihood that there will be a behavior similarity.

"The American Anti-Vivisection Society is thrilled to hear that Genetic Savings & Clone will no longer be able to profit from the suffering of animals in the pet cloning business," said Sue Leary, AAVS President. "We hope that this closure will send a message to other companies looking to sell cloned animals: American consumers are not interested."

In fact, several independent national surveys reveal that the overwhelming majority of Americans are opposed to cloning companion animals such as cats and dogs and feel that companies should not be allowed to sell genetically engineered animals as pets. "Given the public's strong opposition to pet cloning, it is not surprising that Genetic Savings & Clone was only able to sell two cloned cats in over two years of promoting them," noted Tracie Letterman AAVS Executive Director.

Genetic Savings & Clone's attempts at pet cloning were remarkable failures of both science and ethics. AAVS celebrates the closing of Genetic Savings & Clone and will continue to work to protect animals from the dangers of cloning.

AAVS is a non-profit animal advocacy and educational organization that has been monitoring the use of animals in laboratories since 1883. AAVS is among the oldest animal protection organization in the United States. AAVS pursues its objectives through legal and effective advocacy, education and the support of the development of non-animal alternative methods.
http://www.nopetcloning.org/animalcloning.shtml
http://www.AAVS.org

This Week on Animal Radio®:

During JOANNE CARSON's marriage to the late Johnny Carson (his second wife) from 1963-1972, they befriended Truman Capote, who remained a close friend of Joanne's, until his death in 1984. After his passing, Joanne became his unofficial keeper of his flame by safeguarding his personal effects. Joanne is auctioning off Truman's personal items at the auction house Bonhams in New York on November 9th, with a portion of the sale benefiting her favorite animal-rescue charities.

Next Week on Animal Radio®:

You remember JOHN O'HURLEY from Seinfeld, as J. Peterman. Well, not only is he a great actor, but he is also the real J. Peterman's business partner and part owner of the J. Peterman Company.

John's talking about his new book "It's Okay to Miss the Bed on the First Jump and other life Lessons I learned from Dogs."

John is now the regular host of NBC's "The National Dog Show presented by Purina," a Thanksgiving tradition.

Submit Your "Thanksgiving stories of why you appreciate your cat. " - Win a ScoopFree Automatic Litter
Lucky Litter LLC, maker of the ScoopFree™ automatic litter box that you can leave alone for up to 30 days per cat, marks the Thanksgiving holiday season with a contest seeking the best stories on why you're thankful for your cat.

"We know cat lovers have many reasons they're thankful for their cats," said Alan J. Cook, president of Lucky Litter. "We want to create this opportunity for you to share those feelings of gratitude with others who appreciate their feline companions."

Winners, to be announced by Dec. 18, will receive a free ScoopFree automatic litter box or a case of six ScoopFree Litter Tray Cartridges if they already own a ScoopFree. The contest is not valid where prohibited by law.

Winners will also receive an autographed copy of the award-winning book, Tails of Devotion: A Look at the Bond Between People and their Pets, by Emily Scott Pottruck. All proceeds, not just profits, from the sale of the book go to a variety of animal welfare nonprofit organizations throughout the United States.

Share your story and enter the contest, which runs through Nov. 30, by visiting www.scoopfree.com/contest or tell Animal Radio® on-air at 1-866-405-8405.

You'll be thankful for your new ScoopFree. ScoopFree is available at selected PetSmart stores and can be purchased online at PetSmart.com, Target.com, Amazon.com and Costco.com. For more information on this major innovation in cat care, visit www.scoopfree.com

RECENT Animal Radio® PODCASTS:
Podcast HGTV's JOHN & JIMMY DIRESTA, Actor ADRIAN ZMED (1 hour abridged version)
Podcast NBC's Biggest Loser Trainer JILLIAN MICHAELS, Animal Planet's Animal Precint ANNE MARIE LUCAS (1 hour abridged version)
Podcast As seen on Letterman VLADAE THE DOG WIZARD, DR. MARTY BECKER (1 hour abridged version)
From Letterman to Animal Radio - Don't miss this guy!

Congratulations to BOB FAVOR of South Lake Tahoe, winner of the 2007 Animal Radio Summer Giveaway!!
Thanks to all our sponsors who made this yearly phenomenon so special.
Scoop Free Automatic Cat Litter, Nintendo with Nintendogs, Aqua Garden Drinkwell Fountain, Petmate's Ultra Vari Kennel, Kongtime from Dogopolis, Treats from Blue Dog Bakery, Get Serious Stain Lifter

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Voice of the Animal - Rae Ann Kumelos Ph.D.

Thank a Turkey
Thanksgiving is not Turkey's favorite holiday. On the one hand, he is honored and feted throughout the country: school-children recreate his image with colorful construction paper cut-outs; he enjoys a prominent place in the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade; and he is given a traditional pardon from the President of the United States. On the other hand, Turkey is the main feature on the Thanksgiving dinner table.

In the Navajo creation story, Turkey enjoys divine status as the representative of agriculture. As the Navajo people are fleeing from the encroaching flood waters of the fourth world to find refuge and safety in the fifth world, Turkey is the only one to notice that the precious seeds that have been stored in pottery jars after the harvest season will be lost to the flood waters. Gathering a few seeds from each jar, Turkey manages to hide the seeds among her feathers. As she hurries to catch up with the others racing to beat the flood waters, she gets some help from Wind pushing from behind, as Turkey dare not fly and risk losing the seeds. When everyone finally makes it to the safety of the fifth world, all are humbled by the fact that Turkey was the only one who thought to bring the most precious commodity of all ­ the people's very means of survival and insurance against famine ­ seeds.

Did you know that turkeys sleep high in trees? And they do not like to be awoken. If a plane flies overhead, they will gobble in a very grumpy manner, and when thunder rolls, they will respond as if having a conversation with Zeus himself. Turkeys are also very social and take care of each other. Wild turkeys live on our ranch. For weeks last year, we watched a group of nine turkeys wait patiently while one of their party, a small crippled female, limped behind them to catch up. Over time, this turkey could no longer even walk, and just sat by the feeder, where her friends sat quietly with her. At this point. we were able to catch the crippled turkey and take her to the wildlife vet two hours away, a ride in which she sat huddled and frightened in her carrier. When we arrived, we were told she limped because she had been shot in the leg. Despite excellent care, she did not survive to come back home.

When I think about this sweet turkey, I wonder, would the hunter who shot her have any interest in knowing the sacred role of turkey in Navajo culture? Did that hunter have any concept of the courage and fortitude this turkey exhibited as she limped behind her other turkey friends? Could the hunter understand the compassion her turkey companions displayed in always waiting for her to catch up? And, what would the hunter have to say to the veterinarian and her assistants regarding the hours spent attempting to heal the turkey's gunshot wound?

To this day, Turkey's feathers are marked with the colors of the seeds she carried long ago in the Navajo beginning of time. When the forefathers of the United States were deciding on a national symbol, Ben Franklin lobbied on behalf of Turkey. Instead, we all know Eagle was chosen. But maybe, if more people knew the story of Turkey and the role she played in insuring the survival of agriculture, as well as how loyal, courageous, and compassionate Turkeys are to each other, they might have chosen her as our national bird, as well as think differently of their Thanksgiving menu.

During this season of thanks-giving, thank Turkey for her generous role in insuring the survival of the seeds that bring the bounty of harvest gracing your holiday table. Visit Farm Sanctuary's website www.adoptaturkey.org. , where, thanks to your generosity, a turkey will spend her holiday not on a platter atop a table, but with a group of her turkey friends.

Happy Thanksgiving from Rae Ann Kumelos and Voice of the Animal.

©2006 Voice of the Animal
Visit us at http://www.VoiceOfTheAnimal.org to order a Volume One- Voice of the Animal CD for yourself or a friend.

Hear Voice of the Animal every week on Animal Radio®, or anytime at Animal Radio's Full-time channel.

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Veterinary Minute with Dr. Jim Humphries

Xylitol Toxicity in Dogs

On a low carb diet? Planning on sharing some of those low calorie dessert treats with your canine friends? STOP! That sugar-free snack you think is good for you and your dog could actually send you to the veterinarian!

For many of us, sharing food with our pets is a daily routine that we both enjoy and cherish, despite the numerous pleas from veterinarians to limit "people food." We know that giving "Fluffy" table scraps encourages more begging, can make her obese and may make her a finicky eater. However, new research being released now shows that certain "sugar free" treats can actually cause liver failure in your dog and perhaps even kill him or her.

For many Americans and Europeans, the sugar substitute xylitol has been an amazing development in the fight against tooth decay and in helping diabetics gain better control over their disease. First used in the 1960s in Europe as a substitute for sucrose when sugar was scarce, xylitol is now found in many countries across the world. Most xylitol is developed from processing corn cobs, wood chips (especially birch) or other plant material. Although it tastes just as sweet as sucrose, it has about 40% less food energy, making it ideal for "low carb" dieters and for diabetics who need to monitor their intake of carbohydrates. Most often, xylitol is found in gums and toothpastes, although many other food items such as breads and desserts may also contain this sugar substitute. Documented claims of reducing dental cavities and helping to minimize the severity of ear infections are just some of the positive attributes of xylitol. Even the US Military has added sugar free gum containing xylitol into their Meals Ready to Eat (MREs). Why wouldn't we want to share this with our pets?

For years, veterinarians have suspected that xylitol could make dogs sick, but a recent article in the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association (JAVMA) has actually documented the illness in eight dogs. Five of the eight dogs died or were euthanized due to complications stemming from xylitol ingestion. Additionally, the ASPCA Poison Control Center has documented an increase in the number of xylitol-related pet exposures. It appears that dogs who ingest a large amount of the sugar substitute develop a profound hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar levels, within 30 minutes of consumption. This decrease in blood sugar is due to a rapid increase in the production of insulin in the dog's body. But small amounts of xylitol do not appear to be any safer.

The JAVMA report states that a 22 lb dog who consumes just 1 gram of xylitol can generate the rapid insulin production and the associated drop in blood sugar levels. As a comparison, the popular gum Trident contains almost 0.20 grams of xylitol in each stick. Other foods, such as raspberries and mushrooms can contain up to 1 gram of xylitol in a single cup of that food. The JAVMA report continues, stating that it appears the smaller doses can indeed cause liver failure in dogs.

Dogs who consume xylitol will most often appear to be weak and uncoordinated, due to the sudden decrease in blood sugar levels. The pet may also start to seizure as potassium levels in the blood start to drop as well. Due to the severity and quick mechanism of action, anyone who suspects that their pet may have ingested a xylitol containing product should seek veterinary advice immediately. Veterinarians warn that there is nothing that can be done to remedy the situation at home, so the best course of action is to get to your family veterinarian as soon as possible.

While it may seem obvious to avoid giving gum, sugar free or not, to your pet, xylitol can also be found in children's chewable multi-vitamins, certain cough medications, and even mouthwashes. Since it has been approved as a food additive for special dietary needs, xylitol may be found in some candies and mints for diabetics.

Bonding with your pet doesn't always have to be about sharing treats. Many of the foods that we would consider to be harmless, such as chocolate or even raisins, can actually cause severe illness in our pets. Now, the sugar substitute xylitol has been added to that list. Visit www.MyVNN.com to see a video describing the symptoms of xylitol toxicity and how you can help keep your dog safe.

Dr. Jim Humphries is President and News Director of Veterinary News Network. Hear the Veterinary Minute on Animal Radio®.

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ASK THE CAT COACH - Marilyn Krieger
Certified Cat Behavior Consultant | CWA, Professional Member

Would We Be Good Cat Owners?

Dear Cat Coach,
My wife and I want to adopt a cat. I think we can provide a cat a good home, though we do have some concerns. We both work full time jobs and are gone most of the day. We also like to go on long vacations every year, typically being gone for 3-4 weeks at a time. We decided to get a cat instead of a dog because we were told that cats are more independent and don't need company and as much care as much as dogs do. My intuition tells me that isn't true though. What do you think? Do you think we would be good cat owners? What do we need to do to make a good home for a cat?
-Katie from Kansas

Dear Katie,
Your intuition is correct. Most cats living in the home environment like to hang out with the people they share their lives with and with cats they are compatible with. Many consultations are based on behavior issues that develop because cats are left alone all day with no one to interact with them. Some of these cats have redecorated their homes, others have decided to not use the litter box and still others take up biting. These are a sample of the problems that can result from leaving a cat home alone for hours at a time day after day. Of course, not all cats react like this when left alone, some welcome the opportunity to not have to talk with anyone.

Since you spend so much time away from home, I advise that you seriously consider if adopting a cat would be in the best interests of a cat. You want your cat to be happy and well adjusted. That being said, if you do decide to adopt a cat, there are some steps that you can take to help make your new feline friend happier when left alone. First, I urge you to consider adopting a bonded pair of cats or kittens. There are many rescue groups that have bonded cats that need to be rehomed together. Adopting two cat friends at the same time usually insures that the cats do get along with each other and that they will keep each other company.

Other ways to help insure that cats are well-adjusted and happy include making the home a fun and interesting place for them to hang out in. Hanging a bird feeder outside a closed window helps to keep cats busy and entertained. Turning the TV on to the Animal Planet or playing DVDs that feature small animals, fish and bugs can help keep a couch-potato-cat occupied as well. Most cats love to bat around balls, especially when the balls have treats in them. Treat balls are easy to make. Start by buying a whiffle ball and stuffing it with treats that cats adore. They will spend hours rolling the ball around trying to get the treats out. Additionally, there are interactive toys commercially available that will occupy most cats when they are left alone during the day.

If you do decide to adopt a couple of cats, encourage them to form a bond with you and your husband by having regular quality play time with them before and after work. Play with them using a fishing pole toy or other toys they enjoy. Contrary to popular opinion, cats can be trained. Clicker training is a very affective and fun way to train your cats. Based on operant conditioning, cats are rewarded for desired behaviors and are never punished. Not only does Clicker training helps develop bonds between cats and their people, but it's fun for both the cats and their trainers. I recommend the book Clicker Training for Cats, by Karen Pryor for more information on how to clicker train cats.

If you do decide to adopt a couple of cats, take your time and choose carefully. Research the breeds, keeping general breed personality traits in mind. Realize that each cat has it's own unique personality, sometimes not conforming to the general breed characteristics. Find out about the cat's individual histories and personality. Doing the research will help you to select the right cats for your situation.

Do you have cat-behavior questions? Ask the Cat Coach. Is your cat acting aggressive, spraying or chronically afraid? Ask the Cat Coach. Please send your questions to:
marilyn@thecatcoach.com

© November 2006 by Marilyn Krieger. You can find out more about The Cat Coach at http://thecatcoach.com Marilyn can be reached for phone or on-site consultations for solving cat behavior problems either by phone: 650 780 9485. Marilyn also teaches cat behavior classes in San Francisco, CA at Pet Food Express in Sunnyvale, CA at For Other Living Things Marilyn is certified through The International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants

Animal Radio® made possible by: FIDO FRIENDLY MAGAZINE Fido Friendly magazine lists accommodations where you can stay with your dog while traveling in the United States and Canada. Each quarter, our editorial includes hotel, city and state reviews. http://www.FidoFriendly.com

Animal Minute with Britt Savage

Love at First Bite
A recent wedding ceremony was held in India, but it wasn't your usual ceremony. It was between a woman and a snake.

The 30-year-old woman said she was in love with the snake and was therefore married by a Hindu priest with 2,000 people celebrating the event.

The groom, I mean the snake, was a little shy and did not come out of his ant-hill. A brass replica of the snake was used as a stand in for the ceremony.

Even though the cobra is very poisonous, the woman said she he has never harmed her. Her relatives are very excited about the union and feel it will bring good luck. They have even built a hut by the ant-hill where the woman will live.

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Dog-Cat-Mouse Guy
A street performer in Bisbee, Arizona has been arrested for doing business without a license and for begging. The dog-cat-mouse-guy, also known as Greg Pike, stacks his pets, a dog, cat and mouse, on top of each other while setting out a container for donations. People normally stop to take pictures of his animals, for which he accepts cash. Two different groups helped raise the $910 bail for Greg, and all charges have been dropped.

Hear Britt and the Animal Minute at AnimalRadio.com

ANIMAL RADIO BOOK REVIEW for November

Animal Radio® Book Club=NO (rated 1 paw) Doggy Style by Jane May Paperback: 304 pages Publisher: K Trade Paper ISBN: 0758213603 I really wanted to like this book. I love the title, I think the story is great, but no matter how hard I tried, I couldn't get past the "foul" language. Now don't get me wrong, I am not a fuddy-duddy, but I think a story can be told by leaving some things to the imagination and without the graphic descriptions of a dog's obsession with human aromas post-coitus and the human's comments regarding their dog's genetalia. I hate to think my dog could be looking at me in an "amorous" way! This book has received glamorous reviews which I simply can't understand. I guess diversity is what makes this world so beautiful. See other reviews at AnimalRadio.com. Send books and literature for review on-air and in this newsletter to: Animal Radio Network™ Book Reviews, 233 East 330 North, Kanab, Utah 84741. Product may not be returned. Allow 5 weeks for review.

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Small Dogs, Big Hearts with Darlene Arden Check Schedule for Airtimes

ASK "THE DOG EXPERT" - by Darlene Arden, Certified Animal Behavior Consultant

Q: Are there any small breeds suitable for very athletic events like Agility or even Lure Coursing?

A: That's a very good question. It's always best to find a dog who fits into your lifestyle and you obviously are an active person who would enjoy an active, but portable, companion. The quick answer to your question is, yes! But (you knew there was a "but," didn't you?) you'll have to narrow down your choices. Not every small dog is right for athletic events but you will definitely have several from which to choose so do your homework.

If you're really serious about Lure Coursing, look seriously at the Italian Greyhound. This is a true Toy Sighthound, bred down from the Greyhound. There are both Lure Coursing and Racing events dedicated to these little darlings.

The Chinese Crested is a rather Houndlike breed and can do well in Agility.

Papillons seem to be the stars of the small dog Agility world. They fly around the course at lightening fast speed for such little canines. Yorkshire Terriers and Silky Terriers can also do well in Agility as can Cavalier King Charles Spaniels and Miniature Pinschers, Pomeranians and Toy Poodles. Take your time finding the right companion. You'll want to factor in things like how much grooming you're willing to do.

You can also look at the dogs weighing 20 lbs. or less in several of the other Groups. The Lowchen, in the Non-Sporting Group, is fast, agile and fun.

Take your time. Learn what other characteristics each of these breeds has as well as any possible health problems.

As with any other athlete, be sure your dog does warm-up and cool-down exercises and never start a puppy going over jumps too soon. You can cause damage. Also, be sure to train slowly and carefully so your little dog won't be injured jumping off a piece of agility equipment. If you want to know where to buy Agility equipment so you can practice in the backyard, you can go to: www.mightymitedoggear.com where they also have message boards to discuss various small dog activities.

Don't forget Canine Musical Freestyle, which is a dance routine with your dog. It's set to music and a lot of fun! (www.worldcaninefreestyle.org)

Remember to consider breed rescue when searching for a new companion. You can give a dog a brand-new lease on life and the love and companionship you're both seeking. Each breed club has a breed rescue chairperson. You can find them via the web at: www.akc.org and then click on Breeds.

Copyright 2006 by Darlene Arden, All Rights Reserved

{"Ask the Dog Expert" is a regular column by Darlene Arden. This month's column features information found in her new 240 page book, Small Dogs, Big Hearts: A Guide to Caring for Your Little Dog" (Howell Book House), the first book that tells you, from the expert's point of view, how to choose, raise and train a mentally and physically healthy, normal, enjoyable small dog. Further information may also be found on her website: http://www.DarleneArden.com.}

Hear Darlene Arden on Animal Radio® Consult schedule for showtimes.

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Animal Wise Radio Check Schedule for Airtimes

AETA - Animal Enterprise Terrorism Act
Catchy Name - Nice Label - Bogus Legislation.

We all know that its true that so long as you put a nice label on
something you can pretty much sell anything. And so it is with a new bill that recently passed in the US Senate and that is now making its way through the US House of Representatives. At first, I thought the Animal Enterprise Terrorism Act sounded like a good thing, until I realized that it had nothing to do with animal enterprises ­ or terrorism, for that matter. But, before I get into that, I would like to first go on records as saying that I am one of those people who hates violence of any kind.

Call me strange, but I don't think it is possible to bomb the World into peace. Likewise I despise violent protests by animal rights extreemists.

But lets face it, there are nutbag, freak fanatics of just about every type. There are fundamentalist fanatics of every religious persuasion, willing to take up the sword ­ or even more lethal weapons ­ in order try to impose their own narrow view of the Universe onto others.

There are radicals who use violence to advance the agendas of other issues as well, fanatic right-to-lifers who bomb abortion clinics or who shoot doctors come to mind.

Though it is an unfortunate reality, the fact is there exists in most cultures a group of people who are willing to misguidedly use violence as a way of trying to advance animal causes.

It is not in question whether the violent activities of these people should be illegal. They already are, and should be. Radical, terrorist acts are already illegal, no matter who conducts them, or who the target of the violence may be ­ which brings me back to the Animal Enterprise Terrorism Act.

Many people may be surprised to learn that this bill defines as an "animal enterprise" any organization that sells animals or animal products. That seems reasonable. But, the bill then goes on to include any organization that has had two or more transactions with a business that sells animals or animal products.

So how many businesses do you suppose have on at least two occassions purchased meals from a food provider, for example? Right, just about every one of them. So, under this bill virtually every business on the planet would qualify as an "animal enterprise".

And what exactly does the Animal Enterprise Terrorism Act protect all of these businesses from? Well, to quote directly from the bill:

"An offence involving an exclusively non-violent obstruction of an animal enterprise, or a business having a connection to or relationship with an animal enterprise, that may result in loss of profits but that does not result in bodily injury or death or property damage or loss."

That doesn't exactly sound like terrorism to me.

To put it very simply, this bill expands the definition of "terrorism" to include such activities as non-violent civil disobedience, peaceful protests, leafleting, public boycotts, and other Constitutionally protected civil rights. Rather than targeting terrorists, this bill clearly has corporate whistle-blowers in their crosshairs, according to organizations like the ACLU.

Even worse, this bill labels these activities as acts of terrorism, if they result in profit loss to any of the protected businesses.

So, to summarize: The Animal Enterprise Terrorism Act is neither about terrorism nor animal enterprises. However, because of its catchy name people assume this bill is intended to protect animal enterprises from animal rights terrorists, whose activities are already illegal. But, since large, corporate lobbyists from well-financed industries ­ like pharmaceuticals ­ it is likely to sail through the legislative process without much scrutiny or resistance, in spite of the fact that it's constitutionality is highly questionable. That, to me, shows a terrifying reality about the World we live in today . . . if you put a nice label on it and people will buy almost anything.

Mike Fry, Executive Director, Animal Ark No-Kill Shelter
Hear Animal Wise Radio on Animal Radio Network™

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Talk With Your Animals hosted by Joy Turner Check Schedule for Airtimes

Perception

It is interesting how each person's (human & animal) perception of the same event can be so different. We can each look at the very same thing and see it totally differently. We all think we see the same thing. However, the problem is that we all see the exact same things differently. What causes this? Our filters. In other words how we view life. How we were brought up; the family rules either spoken or unspoken we were taught. Filters are things like our beliefs, opinions, judgments, definitions of the world, expectations, previous experiences, just to name a few. There is great comfort in our world as defined by our filters (perceptions). And, most people find great discomfort in deviating from that which we see as "norm." There is a most interesting phenomenon that occurs in this. Which is that, even if we are uncomfortable in our current perception of life, most people are more comfortable with the known (current perception) than the unknown (a different perception). So we spend our time in our previous perception often not even knowing another exists. The issue with this is that we miss a tremendous amount of life. A great part of perception is that it can be changed. No one has to have any particular perception. There is a really good point in changing perceptions. If we allow ourselves to deviate from our present perceptions of life, a whole new world opens up to us. In that opening, our lives can change dramatically. We can see things in an entirely new light. Maybe even one that feels much better to us than our old perception. There are several ways to change perceptions. One is to examine our filters. Another, often simpler way, is to watch our animal kids. Our animals are safe teachers of change of perception.

One of my friends adopted a girl kitty from her vet and named her Annie. Her mom was so excited to have her be a part of her family, which included two cats, one dog and one husband. The kitty was 1 12 years, potty trained, used the scratching post and neutered. Everything seemed fine to her mom. Everybody would get a long. No big deal! Right?!

Wrong! For this kitty and everyone else, it was big deal. Annie had to get use to her new name. Her old name, Merp, definitely had to be changed. She was now in a home with a myriad of strange sights, sounds and new family members. She had always lived at the vets in a small room and hung out with the cats who lived at the vets. Their job was to play and entertain the vet staff.

Now in her new home she was peeing on the carpet where and whenever she felt like it. Her mom was getting so frustrated with this because she had never had a cat do this before. Cats were supposed to use the litter box. She and I talked about what was going on.

What we found out was surprising to Annie's mom. It had never occurred to her mom that maybe her house was too big for Annie. She needed to confine Annie to a small area with an accessible litter box. She did not realize asking Annie to go downstairs to the litter box was too much for her at the time. After awhile her mom set up litter boxes in each room so Annie could get to them.

Time went on. She was now inconsistently peeing on the carpet instead of in the box. Her mom visited the vet office to find out if she was litter box trained. The vet said, "Oh, yes." The vet tech said, "Her best friend taught her to pee anywhere instead of going in the box." So it was back to box training again. Annie was also use to having her box cleaned frequently. And wasn't very happy about having a box that was dirtier than the one she had before. After working with the situation for a time, Annie now uses a box consistently and mom is more vigilant about cleaning the boxes.

The rest of the family members except for the dog, Crystal, had a hard time adjusting to this new family member. Crystal was excited to have another 4-legged female in the family. The husband was very upset about the intruder to his sanctuary. It took him a while to realize that she had to be fed a special food, be kept out of other's food and was peeing on the new carpet. Her mom was trying so hard to keep his life tranquil. Her 13-year-old male cat, Sidney, did not like being chased by this intruder. The idea of Sidney being chased by this intruder also infuriated the husband. This actually helped Sidney and the husband bond. Her 14-year-old male cat, Lemonade, was not a happy camper either. Obviously all was not well in paradise. Mom did not realize this until one night.

She was busy cleaning up the cat pee on the carpet. Out of the corner of her eye, she saw Lemonade on the kitchen counter backed up to the coffee cups and peeing into the cups. Mom burst into tears. She was trying to keep everyone happy and nothing was working. This was definitely NOT the way mom had envisioned life with her new animal kid. After washing the cups, she realized that she needed a different perspective about the situation.

She thanked Lemonade for letting her know how angry he was. Mom took the time to figure out how Annie had changed everyone's life. Annie has to eat food in the consistency of a smoothie. Dry food caused her to throw up. For Lemonade & Sidney, their food dishes could not be left out when they were done eating. Lemonade especially did not want to beg for his food. He wanted it when he wanted it and not according to someone else's schedule. They are now used to a new feeding schedule. Mom decided the husband was just going to have to get over being infuriated. He could either leave or stay. His choice! He stayed and now will pet Annie and feed her. Lemonade is teaching Annie about the outdoors. Sidney is still being chased by her, which is OK because he needs the exercise. Crystal still loves her baby sister.

When you are in a situation and don't know how to handle it, step back and try to look for a different perspective. If you can't think of one, talk with a friend or perhaps meditate. Usually the answer is right in front of us. We just are unable to see it because of our filters (perceptions). We want things to be a certain way. They can't always be that way. Nor are they supposed to be many times. This type of interaction is often put in front of us to help us realize we are seeing things in a way that is too constrictive. Animals always know these things (and that is an entirely different topic). Once you can change your perception to one that says "This is happening for a good reason," then you can open yourself up to a different way of looking at situations, people and things. Once the answer has been found, this situation (lesson) will end then you will be onto the next lesson. Oh, Goody! Life IS all about the lessons we are learning and teaching, you know. So, enjoy those little animal kids and try changing perceptions to one that is more conducive to a happy life.

Until next time, I'm Joy reminding you, you can never love your animal companions too much. You can only love them, hopefully, enough.

Talk With Your Animals airs every weekday on Animal Radio Network's Full-time animal channel. If you would like to talk with your pet via Joy Turner, please call 1-866-405-8405 or email Martha@talkwithyouranimals.com to make arrangements. Be sure to visit http://www.TalkWithYourAnimals.com

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PRODUCT REVIEW for November

(rated 4 paws) The Tug-No-More is a "hands-free" human harness and animal leash system. You actually wear the system around your body. Do you have one of those dogs that constantly tugs on the leash? Well, we tested the Tug-No-More and found that not only were we able to control our tugging dog, but we were able to walk two dogs at a time with full control of both dogs, all while talking on the cell phone! (But, I wouldn't recommend this ­ you should pay more attention to the dogs!) This is a great product for dog walkers, hikers, pet-sitters, pet-walkers and joggers. I really like the hands free approach. One problem I had was actually figuring out how it goes on. Your reviewer is not the most mechanically inclined person, so perhaps it is easier for others. I had to get help the first time I put it on. But, if you get in a pickle while wearing it, there is a quick release you can use. Now, if only I could get over the way it makes me look - can anyone tell me, does my butt look big in this harness? http://www.TugNoMore.com Send products for review on-air and in this newsletter to: Animal Radio Network™ Product Reviews, 233 East 330 North, Kanab, Utah 84741. Products may not be returned.

PAWS UP FOR PETS with ARDEN MOORE

By Animal Radio® correspondent Arden Moore

On a recent trip to Ambergris Caye, the largest island in Belize, Central America, I came to snorkel the crystal-blue, warm waters, bask in fire-red sunsets, and stroll on smooth, sandy beaches. I found a paradise not only for people, but dogs, too.

Welcome to a place that delights in taking a back-in-time approach to day-to-day living. Cars are definitely not the ideal transportation on the dirt-packed roads of this long, narrow island. Instead, islanders and tourists get from here to there on golf carts, bicycles and water ferries.

Leave your cell phone at home. If you need to check e-mail or make a quick call home, you can pop in one of the handful of Internet cafés in downtown San Pedro. For $5 Belizean dollars ($2.50 in U.S. currency), the owner will give you 15 minutes Internet access ­ and toss in a rum drink for free. If you're lucky, his mixed breed named Coco will walk up to you and offer a sloppy kiss ­ also for free.

Coco and the other dogs on this island are happy ­ for good reason. They get to roam free. Off leash. When I first arrived and spotted a dog roaming the downtown, my natural instinct was to try to find his owner. Surely, this was a lost dog. Not so. A few seconds later, I heard a whistle and the dog turned and began trotting behind his owner pedaling a bike.

Even though these island dogs don't have access to sprawling pet supply stores, gourmet doggy bakeries, or five-paw-rated resorts, they enjoy far more freedom ­ and are hounded by far fewer laws ­ than our more-pampered American dogs.

"We love our dogs here on Ambergris Caye," explains Steve DeMaid, owner of an Internet café and bar named after his dog, Coco, a two-year-old mixed breed. "I left Connecticut several years ago to come here. The dogs here aren't tied up or on leashes or behind tall fences. They are definitely mellow. It's rare to see them fight."

Most of the dogs on this island are mutts ­ or, as the islanders prefer to call them, "pot lickers." These dogs earned this term for their talents at licking clean plates and pots of leftover food. I followed one large "pot licker" who had a plastic doggy bag in his mouth. He took a sharp turn down a side street to the beach, where he opened up the doggy bag and dined on a spare rib dinner at the water's edge. Turns out this pot licker has a reputation for swiping to-go bags off tables occupied by unsuspecting tourists.

But my favorite pot licker answers to the name Thai. He is the residence canine greeter for guests dining at the Rendezvous Restaurant perched right on the beach and facing the sprawling, azure Caribbean. Like the other island tail-waggers, Thai sports a friendly nature. His owner is Colleen Schwendinger, a Canadian trained in culinary by her gourmet chef husband, Glenn.

Thai was found by a couple visiting the island during their honeymoon a few years ago. He was shivering, hungry, and roaming near their resort. The couple, knowing that they could not care for a dog once they returned home, brought him to Colleen.

"I fell in love the second I saw Thai," says Colleen, who patiently taught him basic commands and good canine manners.

Then four months later, someone dog napped Thai. Determined, Colleen solicited the help of 18 islanders to track down Thai. They checked with taxi drivers, water ferry operators, and small plane pilots. After a few anxious weeks, Colleen found out that someone had taken Thai to a nearby island. A pilot landed there, confronted the guilty party, and managed to return Thai safely back to Colleen.

Today, everyone on the island knows Thai and they often act as his protective puppy posse. No longer in danger of being kidnapped, Thai now spends his days honing his skills at coconut bowling. Each morning, before the sun gets too warm, Colleen picks out a freshly-dropped coconut and tosses it to Thai who will weave it with his nose up and down the beach. When the game is over, he buries it in one of his favorite hiding spots on the restaurant's property.

"Thai will do anything to play with a coconut," says Colleen. "He doesn't let a day pass without insisting that we play coconut bowling."

It is unfortunate that many of the island's resorts don't have pet policies to allow tourists to travel with their own dogs. But once you arrive, you don't have to go far to get your "fur fix" from one of the free-roaming, mellow mutts (I mean, pot lickers) who call Ambergris Caye home.

Animal Radio® special correspondent Arden Moore is the editor of Catnip, the national award-winning monthly published in cooperation with Tufts University's School of Veterinary Medicine. Arden has also authored more than a dozen books on dogs and cats. Her next book, The Dog Behavior Answer Book, releases in November 2006. To order this book or reach Arden, please visit her Web site: http://www.ArdenMoore.com

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