Read the Full Report: http://www.humanesociety.org/assets/pdfs/states/humane-state-rankings-2013-mt-wy.pdf

A few Highlights: Tennessee Legislation DOES NOT INCLUDE

-“Require state emergency response plans to include pets.” Those of us who remember the 2010 flood know the importance of having a plan in place to help families and their pets when emergencies occur.

Cruelty: TN Does NOT

-“Felony penalty for cockfighting”
-”Place limits on the inhumane chaining of dogs”

Animals in Research: TN Does NOT

-“Prohibit the use of animals in product testing when an approved alternative exists”
-“Prohibit research facilities from obtaining pets from animal shelters”

Puppy Mills: TN Does NOT

-“Prohibit the stacking of cages at puppy mills”
-“Prohibit wire flooring at puppy mills Includes a puppy lemon law”
-“Restrict the sale of animals at outdoor sales and/or flea markets Includes a pet store disclosure requirement on the source of animals”
-“Limit the number of breeding dogs confined at puppy mills”

Misc: TN Does NOT

-“Prohibit the sale of dog and cat fur”
-“Restrict the consumption of dog and cat meat”
-“Prohibit greyhound racing”

Farm Animals: TN Does NOT

-“Include protections for farm animals”
-“Include protections for downed animals too sick or injured to walk”
-“Include humane slaughter standards”

Wildlife: TN Does NOT

-“No Felony penalty for illegally hunting an endangered species”
-“Prohibit the private possession of primates as pets”

Horse Related: TN Does NOT

-“Prohibit horse tripping, or roping the legs of a galloping horse”
-“Prohibit the slaughter of horses for human consumption”

Want to get involved? http://straymagnet.com

Engage with HSUS’s Tennessee’s efforts, learn more

The post HSUS 2013 Humane State Rankings appeared first on Stray Magnet | Helping Lost, Stray, and Abandoned Pets.

I wondered if people were just ignorant and hadn’t grown up with cats to feel differently. I fear cats get a bad rap. Let’s make the case for cats.

10 reasons cats are great pets:

1. They are devoted and loyal companions.

2. They enjoy attention. Every cat is different. Some would love to sit in your lap for hours while others seek you out for some occasional petting. They all love attention when they ask for it.

3. Patting a cat is therapeutic and good stress relief.

4. They are clean creatures who bath themselves regularly.

5. They are immediately potty trained. How amazing is that? An animal that naturally goes to the bathroom in a liter box and wants to stay clean.

6. They sleep roughly 16 out of 24 hours of the day.

7. They are great hunters and will happily take care of any little pest problems you might have in the house.

8. They love people/attention but also are independent and can entertain themselves. They can also entertain you! Watch some funny cat videos sometime-they play the piano, chase their tails, sleep in the strangest places and attempt some amazingly high feats.

9. There has been much research supporting positive health affects from owning a pet. The CDC, reports that “Pets can decrease your: Blood pressure, Cholesterol levels and Triglyceride levels” (all which minimize your risk for heart attacks). They can also help with your mental health decreasing “Feelings of loneliness” and “anxiety” being a stress reducer.

10. As far as pets go, they are pretty low maintenance.  They don’t need to be walked, bathed or have cages cleaned. They need shelter, food, a clean liter box and routine medical attention (yearly check up, shot(s) and monthly flea/tick treatment).

You don’t have to be a cat person to like cats and to help.

“In the U.S., there are an estimated 6–8 million homeless animals entering animal shelters every year. About half of these animals are adopted. Tragically, the other half are euthanized. These are healthy, sweet pets who would have made great companions.” (Humane Society of the United States)

According to Alley Cat Allies ”More than 70% of cats who enter our nation’s animal control pounds and shelters are killed.”

How you can help:

-Adopt
-Foster
-Spay &  Neuter
-Rescue
-Advocate for community cat programs in your area
-Donate

Additional Resources:
“10 Health Benefits of Owning a Pet“, Woman’s Day Magazine

“Top Ten Reasons You Should Adopt a Cat“, PetMD

“Amazing Cat Facts“,  Pet Insurance-101

The post The Case for Cats appeared first on Stray Magnet | Helping Lost, Stray, and Abandoned Pets.