He was dropped off as a puppy in the middle of campus where I worked, a true “Sewanee Dog.” He was a lab-chow mix, our perfect mutt. He had a soft black coat, black spots on his tongue and one ear that just never fully dropped. More importantly he was perfect for our family, big but soft, sweet but protective.

He loved car rides, chasing birds at the beach, peanut butter, whipped cream, ice cream, being in the water, licking people with his extra long and spotted tongue, and he always wanted to be with us. We affectionally referred to him as “a people dog.” His favorite words were walk, car ride, treat and greenie.

For the first year of his life he commuted from Sewanee to St. Louis until Dave and I were married. I think that must have started his love of car trips. After that, he always wanted to join us and was a very handsome co-pilot. It must have felt amazing to sit in the front seat and feel the wind blowing in his face.

He loved the beach. We would drive (14 hours) instead of fly every summer to NC just so we could take him knowing how much he loved to chase the birds, and romp in the water (video). Strolling down the beach not on a leash with his tail swinging high in the air you could sense he had a smile on his face and you knew he was enjoying “his happy place”. On one beach trip he met a dog of a famous person and he did not act like a gentleman. You all will have to ask Dave in person about that one.

He was master of his domain and would sit on top of our steps looking out on his yard. When anyone would come he would run down the stairs and circle the yard, his lair.  He also loved to snuff out the bunnies in the bushes come spring and thankfully never could catch one. Here’s a video from our Easter Egg Hunt in the backyard where thankfully he was unsuccessful. The only bad habit that occasionally surfaced was something we called “armadillo dog”. Once in awhile in the back yard he would tuck his tail between his legs and run in circles trying to nip/bite us.

After we had children he became fiercely loyal, still loving humans but not other dogs. As he aged, he grew to hate thunderstorms, fireworks and having his nails trimmed. Many nights I lay awake with him scratching the bed and wall at my side. I’d try and create a little “nook” where he would feel safe but often ended up on the floor sleeping with him. He put up with a lot (moves, marriage, children, cats, foster animals) but complained the least.

He was loved by all and provided much humor. Some of our funniest family memories involved Winston including a skunk attack and losing his stool in the car while Dave was making a donut run. Thankfully Dave was able to catch it with his free hand and deposit it outside the window while driving. On the rare occasion we had a dessert with whipped cream on top, we would let him lick it and his eyes would literally pop out.

For the last two years of his life we would say how thankful we were for his health and dreaded the day he would one day leave us. It would always come too soon.

June of 2018 he somehow hurt his back, most likely fell down part of our outdoor steps. For a couple of weeks he continued to decline as we tried to help manage the pain with medicine and still get him to eat. I won’t describe those last two weeks, it’s still too painful and I still regret not keeping him alive longer to see if he could have eventually rebounded and overcome the injury.

When he threw up his pain medicine, unable to eat any real food, we took that as a sign. With many hours before the appointment we all cried in anticipation of what was to come, held a service for him, and told him how much we loved him. It was the first time the kids saw Dave cry. Amongst the sadness, God also provided some joy. We all spent time that morning outside together as a family and Winston got to enjoy the water one last time as he drank from the faucet. True to his personality he was with us all day, a loyal companion and enjoying the water as he always had.

As hard as the decision was to let him fall asleep peacefully, to put an end to the pain and let him rejoice with his Father in heaven none of us were prepared for the gravity of the loss. Back home the memories of him remain-everywhere. The house was built around and transformed for him the fence in the back yard, a desk in the kitchen instead of a reading space so there was room for his food and water, a bigger bed so he could sleep on it too, carpet treads added on all the stairs a few years back when he got harder for him to walk down the stairs. It’s amazing how many things in our lives were altered because of him from the size of our bed to the car we drove. We made decisions around him because he was a special part of our family.

Winston was the best! He was an integral part of our family-as my husband would say he was “the glue.” He was the constant that always brought joy. He really never demanded much but always wanted attention. He loved to lick-that’s how he showed his love. He would lick Dave’s feet for a long time. While it grossed me out it was a special bond they shared.

Over a year now since he has passed, I don’t want to forget the little things, his room clearing toots, his loud deep snore after a big day, the howl he made when he heard a siren from an ambulance or fire engine, the way his eyes would pop out when he got to lick whipped cream, the joy of running in his sleep, the fact that he chose to poop in the monkey grass at the back of the yard where no one went. It all matters, from his funny quirks to his big heart, they all made him our beloved Winston.

God gave us Winston and he gave us 14 beautiful years. He will be forever remembered by our children as their first dog and by my husband and I as our first child. He has left a lasting paw print on our hearts.

We miss him every day but are thankful for his faithful love and companionship. We hope and pray all families get to experience that same love and joy!

The post Remembering Winston, A Tribute to Our Beloved Dog appeared first on Stray Magnet | Helping Lost, Stray, and Abandoned Pets.

Written By: Jessica Brody from Ourbestfriends.pet

The vast majority of American households own a pet. Cats and dogs are the most popular, and are the two animals domesticated enough to form undeniable bonds with their owners. There are many reasons to want a pet. They provide unconditional love, companionship, and a sense of responsibility. However, being responsible for a living creature’s well-being is a big decision, and one that should never be made spontaneously.

Open your wallet

One of your first considerations before adopting a furry friend is whether or not you can afford it. Unlike wild animals, cats and dogs are not self-sustaining. They rely on you for food, shelter, medical care, and other things they simply can’t provide for themselves. Money Under 30 estimates that the first year’s cost of having a dog is more than $1,200; cats aren’t far behind. Once the major expenses are out of the way, you are still looking at $500 per year or more on food, gear, and veterinary care.

Open your home

Dogs and cats may not be as big as humans, but they need just as much space. Exercise is a major component in a dog’s overall well-being. Therefore, you should consider whether or not you have a yard or are willing to dedicate yourself to at least three daily walks. Samford Pet Resort goes into more detail on how much yard you need before bringing a dog through the fence. Another big thing to consider is whether you or a member of your family has pet allergies. While the American Kennel Club notes that mild-to-moderate allergies may not preclude you from having a pet, severe allergies might. If you aren’t sure, spend some time volunteering at your local animal shelter to see if you have a reaction.

Gear up for a smooth transition

Preparation is essential in transitioning your new pet from the pound to his new palace. There’s lots of gear, and some of it isn’t cheap. A good vacuum cleaner, for example, can cost hundreds of dollars but is an investment in your home. Animals shed, and a vacuum cleaner with the right attachments can suck the hair and allergens from the carpet as well as your bed and sofa. If you don’t already have one, look for a newer model that features allergen filters that are also efficient and lightweight so you can move it from room to room with ease.

Another pricey possibility, especially if your dog will spend more than an hour or two outdoors at a time, is a dog house. Dog houses range from molded plastic to custom-built works of art. PawCastle’s buying guide can give you a better idea of what’s available.

Less cost prohibitive are food bowls, beds, collars, leashes, and toys. These items can be found at most big-box retailers for $50 each or less.

Welcome home

Once your gear is in place – and you’ve eliminated potential poisons from your new pup’s reach – it’s time to bring him home. While he will need some time to acclimate, keep in mind that even nervous pets need discipline and training in order to feel calm and in control. Be patient, and allow them an opportunity to explore their new surroundings. Show them where their food and water bowls will be, and make sure to keep rooms they are not allowed in blocked off until they learn the house rules. Don’t forget to talk to your vet about microchipping, which can mean the difference between lost and found if your pet accidentally wanders away.

Having a pet is one of the greatest experiences a person can have. They provide unconditional love and are capable of forging bonds that will last long after they’ve crossed the Rainbow Bridge. If you need any further convincing that you need a pet, keep in mind that they may save your life just as you will have saved theirs by adopting from an animal shelter.

Image via Pixabay

The post Am I Ready for a Pet? appeared first on Stray Magnet | Helping Lost, Stray, and Abandoned Pets.

For several years we have seen coyotes in our neighborhood, across the street and even in our yard. Neighbors reported cats and small dogs being killed by coyotes. A year later, they are back! Apparently there are news stories going back several years of residents having close encounters with coyotes and showing concern for the brazen disregard for humans. This is not a new problem but it hasn’t garnered much media attention.

Are they prevalent in Middle Tennessee and what should you do?
According to the USDA Wildlife Services “Almost no animal in America is more adaptable to changing conditions than the coyote. Coyotes live just about anywhere. They are found in deserts, swamps, tundra, grasslands, brush and dense forests, from below sea level to high mountains. They have also learned to live in suburbs and cities” from Los Angeles to New York including Nashville.

A key to their adaptability is their versatile diet. While they prefer smaller animals including sheep, deer, poultry, rodents, rabbits, birds, squirrels, and skunks in urban areas they will eat much of what we put in trash cans from fruits and vegetables, to pet food. Her lies part of the reason that coyotes in urban areas have become more bold and therefore more dangerous. As the Wildlife Services reports “Coyotes adapting to an urban environment can become bolder because they are less likely to be harmed and more likely to associate people with an easy and dependable food source.”

While there aren’t many reported attacks on humans there are frequent attacks on domestic animals particularly small dogs and cats. It’s very important to protect your animals by not leaving them unattended especially at night. If your yard is not fenced and a coyote could gain access then walk your dog on a leash. If you have an outdoor cat, please consider bringing them in at night.

Tips to keeping coyotes away

provided by the United States Department of Agriculture, Wildlife Services

“-Do not feed coyotes!
-Eliminate sources of water, particularly in dry climates.
-Bird feeders should be positioned so that coyotes cannot get feed. Coyotes are attracted by bread, table scraps, and even seed. They may also be attracted by the birds and rodents that come to feeders.
-Do not discard edible garbage where coyotes can get to it.
-Secure garbage containers and eliminate garbage odors.
-Feed pets indoors whenever possible. Pick up any leftovers if feeding outdoors. Store pet and livestock feed where it is inaccessible to wildlife.
-Trim and clean, near ground level, any shrubbery that provides hiding cover for coyotes or prey.
-Fencing your yard could deter coyotes. The fence should be at least 6 feet high with the bottom extending at least 6 inches below ground level for best results.
-Don’t leave small children unattended outside if coyotes have been frequenting the area.
-Don’t allow pets to run free. Keep them safely confined and provide secure nighttime housing for them. Walk your dog on a leash and accompany your pet outside, especially at night. Provide secure shelters for poultry, rabbits, and other vulnerable animals.”

Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency adds:

“-Do not place trash cans out the night before scheduled pick-up.  Placing cans out in the morning before pick-up will give coyotes less time to scavenge. They will not have cover of darkness.
-Do not leave barbecue grill outside and uncovered. The smell of the grill and the contents of the grills drip pan attracts coyotes.
-Discourage coyotes from frequenting your area.  Harass them by throwing rocks, shouting, and making loud noises when one is seen.“

Other interesting facts

provided by Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency

Physical Characteristics:
“The average weight of a coyote in Tennessee is 20-40 pounds, about the size of a small to medium sized German Shepard.  The coyote has erect, pointed ears, slender muzzle with a black nose and a bushy tail which is carried down as it runs.”

“Their eyesight is six times greater than mans.  Sense of smell is extremely well developed, more than 23 times better than mans.”

Breeding
“Coyotes breed during January through March.  Daytime activity increases during the coyotes breeding season.  After breeding season, coyotes begin a frenzy of feeding activity and begin searching for suitable denning sites.”

Pass along your coyote reports to contact@straymagnet.com or comment on facebook at https://www.facebook.com/thestraymagnet.

Two Main Resources:
United States Department of Agriculture, Wildlife Services
Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency

The post Coyotes in Nashville and Beyond appeared first on Stray Magnet | Helping Lost, Stray, and Abandoned Pets.

Article provided by Redfin

At Redfin, we know that sometimes your home away from home is a tent hidden in the woods. And it wouldn’t feel like your second home without your dog by your side. With summer in full swing, Redfin has compiled the ultimate safety guide for camping with your dog! Camping with your dogs requires a bit of preparation and safety precautions to ensure that you and your dogs can enjoy a safe and fun outdoor adventure – but we’re here to help! We’ve covered important health and safety precautions as well as how to pack the right safety and comfort essentials for your beloved furry family members, and will arm you with important safety tips and information to keep your dogs safe at and around your campsite.

What You’ll Find in This Guide:

1. Before You Go: Health Checkups and Safety Supplies
2. Packing for Your Dog
3. Dog-Safe Best Practices at the Campsite

Redfin employee Brittany hanging out with her pup, Rugby / Photo credit: Noelle Marchesini

Before You Go: Health Checkups and Safety Supplies

This section covers all the know-before-you-go information that you should take care of before planning a camping trip with your dog, preventative veterinary care tips, and more.

First things first: schedule a visit to the veterinarian for a health checkup. If your dog’s health isn’t optimal, ordinary camping hazards can quickly become serious dangers, so you should discuss your camping plans with your veterinarian. If you plan to take your dog backpacking,  you’ll want to make sure that your dog is up to the task physically. Aging or chronically ill dogs may not be physically able to keep up with a daunting trek, so it might be wise to leave Fido with a trusted caregiver in such a scenario.

Check your dog’s records or double-check with your regular veterinarian to ensure that you’re on top of all preventative care, such as core vaccinations like the Rabies vaccine, as it’s possible that your dog may encounter a wild animal with the disease in the great outdoors.

Pests such as fleas and ticks are often common in the wooded areas many people favor for camping. Consider having your dog vaccinated for Lyme disease and make sure that he’s been treated with flea and tick prevention. Additionally, heartworms are transmitted through mosquito bites, so make sure your dog’s preventative heartworm treatment is current for optimal protection.

Pack a first-aid kit with essentials. A few must-have supplies for dogs include:

• Coated aspirin for pain. Use with caution and give only the recommended dosage (between 5mg and 10mg per pound of body weight). You may also consider a safer alternative, but your best bet is to discuss it with your veterinarian before your trip for specific advice.
• Tweezers or tick removal tools and scissors
• Butterfly bandages, gauze, and/or bandages designed for pets to close wounds.
• Rubbing alcohol or antiseptic to clean wounds.
• First aid gel or spray designed for pets.

If your pet takes medication regularly for a chronic health condition, take enough medication for the duration of your trip, plus enough to last at least a few extra days. You never know what you’ll encounter in the wilderness, so it’s better to be safe than sorry. Take copies of your dog’s health records, including vaccination history, and locate the veterinary clinic closest to your campsite before you leave. Save or print the phone number and directions so that they’re easily accessible in case of emergency. Finally, make sure that your dog’s microchip registration is up to date and that your pet has a tag with complete and accurate information so that finders can easily locate you should your dog get lost. If you know ahead of time that you may not have reliable wireless service, you might also consider adding your veterinarian’s phone number or the contact information for a trusted friend or relative.

Redfin employee, Bailey, lets Tonka take a dip

Packing for Your Dog

This section covers the essential packing list for camping with your dog, including supplies for nutrition, water safety, and just plain fun.

You’ll need more than first-aid supplies for a camping trip with your furry friend, of course. You’ll want to pack your dog’s food and water dishes, as well as enough fresh water to last the duration of your trip plus a few extra days, unless you’re camping at a site with a readily-available supply of fresh water. If it’s going to be warm, keep in mind that your dog may need to drink more water than usual. Take an ample supply of your dog’s regular food and treats, as well. Your dog will have to do his or her business as usual, so you’ll need a good supply of dog waste bags to keep your campsite free of waste and avoid disgruntled fellow campers.

You’ll also want to pack a leash or two, as well as whatever supplies you’ll need to tether your dog while outdoors. Pack your dog’s bed so that he or she can get a comfortable night’s rest. Some dogs prefer to sleep in their crate, but it’s a good idea to take a dog crate or carrier regardless in the event that you need to confine your pup. If the weather will be cooler in the evenings, pack blankets or a dog jacket to keep your furry friend warm in the elements. If you’re heading to a destination near water, a dog life preserver is a good idea, as well as plenty of extra towels to dry your dog off after a swim.

Don’t forget about enrichment. Does your dog have a favorite toy? Take a few trinkets such as balls, frisbees, and squeaky toys to keep your dog entertained. The other items you’ll need to pack for your dog depend on your plans. If you plan on going hiking, for instance, you’ll want a portable water dish that you can easily store in your backpack to keep your dog hydrated throughout the day.

Sushiil, Redfin’s E-Learning Specialist, has a camping Corgi named Mugi

Dog-Safe Best Practices at the Campsite

This section provides helpful tips for monitoring your dog’s health and maintaining a safe environment for your dog and other campers.

Many campgrounds require that dogs be leashed at all times. Make sure you know and understand the rules if you’re heading for a managed campground; some even specify the maximum lead length permitted. Some campgrounds prohibit dogs altogether, while others place limits on the size or number of dogs permitted. Researching before you go is a must.

Keep an eye on your dog’s well-being throughout your trip. If the weather is hot and humid, you can bet your dog is feeling the heat, too. Watch for signs of heat stroke, such as excessive panting, excessive drooling or foaming at the mouth, weakness, vomiting, diarrhea, tremors, or seizures. If you suspect your dog has heat stroke, wrap your dog in a towel soaked in cool water and get her to a veterinarian immediately.

Ideally, you’ve already spent time training your dog, but if your dog isn’t the most well-trained pup in the pack, it’s a good idea to start slowly, taking a few short trips to see how your dog fares when exposed to the many new experiences he’ll have during a camping trip. The many sights, sounds, people, and scents can send even well-trained dogs into a flurry of excitement, so testing the waters and learning how to work with your dog to manage behavior will ensure not only his or her safety, but the safety of fellow campers and animals, both domestic and wild.

At minimum, your dog should obey a few essential commands, such as “sit,” “stay,” and “leave it.” If you don’t know how your dog will react to strangers, particularly excited children, use extreme caution until you’re comfortable with your dog’s temperament in new situations. These commands will come in handy for situations such as encountering poisonous plants or other hazardous substances; a dog who obeys the “leave it!” command will be much more easily redirected than a dog who can think of nothing else but devouring those delicious-looking leaves or berries. You should do your research to know which plants your dog must steer clear of and how to identify them in order to be proactive about keeping your dog away from these dangerous plants.

Above all, have fun! A camping trip is a great opportunity to kick back and relax. When you take the proper precautions and keep safety top-of-mind, a camping trip is an enjoyable bonding experience for humans and dogs alike.

Resources on Safe Camping with Dogs

This section provides valuable resources on dog health, camping safety, and other essential information for a safe and enjoyable camping trip with your furry friend.

Camping with Dogs offers a wide range of articles about camping safely with your dog.

Ruffwear’s Blog provides advice on all types of outdoor activities with your dog and products to keep them save.

IHeartDogs.com provides 12 important safety tips for camping with your dog.

The ASPCA offers a comprehensive guide to vaccinations for your dog, including information on core and non-core vaccines, regulations and risks associated with vaccination, and how to determine the proper vaccination schedule for your dog.

GearJunkie is an excellent resource for discovering the essential outdoor gear your dog needs for a fun outdoor adventure.

Dogster.com also covers some common outdoor risks for dogs, including helpful tips for helping your dog cope with anxiety from thunderstorms, preventing poisoning, and other helpful advice.

Even in the warmer months, when the sun goes down, the chill can set in. The American Veterinary Medical Association offers helpful cold weather safety tips for dogs and other pets.

CampTrip provides a useful guide for first-time camping with your dog, including tips for getting your dog in tip-top physical shape before your trip, acclimating your dog to tents, and more.

Mother Nature Network offers helpful advice for camping with your four-legged friends, including an informative discussion on determining whether your dog’s temperament is well-suited for camping.

The Humane Society provides a comprehensive list of what to include in a first-aid kit for your dog.

BarkPost names 10 ideal, dog-friendly camping destinations that are surely on every dog’s bucket list.

The Pet Poison Helpline provides a handy list of 10 plants poisonous to pets. Knowing how to identify the plants that your dog must avoid is essential for a safe and enjoyable camping experience.

The post The Complete Safety Guide for Camping with Dogs appeared first on Stray Magnet | Helping Lost, Stray, and Abandoned Pets.

ASPCA survey shows an increase in kittens spring to fall season is really three seasons in one, starting in spring, peaking in late spring or early summer, and ending in fall. “One female and one male cat and their offspring can produce 1728 kittens in just 3 years….420,000 in 7 years” (http://www.peopleforanimals.net ).Those statistics are staggering.

We live in a world with a major overpopulation problem where there are 3-4 million animals euthanized a year. In April 2013, The Tennessean reported that Metro Animal Control  (Davidson County) had an intake of 10,000+ animals annually with a euthanasia rate of 76-78%.

How you can help:

1-Spay and Nueter your pets (and any feral ones in your community)

There are lots of low cost spay and neuter clinics in Middle Tennessee and financial support programs. The Pet Community Center just opened a new clinic in East Nashville and also offers a Trap Neuter Release Program to humanely help curb the feral cat program. View the list of resources available to help in Middle Tennessee. Read an article that also lists prices and additional details.

Here are some benefits of spaying and neutering your pets according to People For Animals
-
“Sterilization of your cat or dog will increase his/her chance of a longer and healthier life. Altering your canine friend will increase his life an average of 1 to 3 years, felines, 3 to 5 years. Altered animals have a very low to no risk of mammary gland tumors/cancer, prostate cancer, perianal tumors, pyometria, and uterine, ovarian and testicular cancers.”

-“Sterilizing your cat/dog makes him/her a better pet, reducing his/her urge to roam and decreasing the risk of contracting diseases or getting hurt as they roam. Surveys indicate that as many as 85% of dogs hit by cars are unaltered. Intact male cats living outside have been shown to live on average less than two years. Feline Immunodeficiency Syndrome is spread by bites and intact cats fight a great deal more than altered cats.”

2-Adopt a kitten or a cat

Consider adopting a kitten or a cat. Kittens are easier to adopt because they are so cute so take the time to consider rescuing a cat instead! Read an article about the pro’s of picking a cat instead of a kitten, published on Veterinary Partner.

Click here for a list of rescue groups, shelters and animal control agencies who will all have animals to adopt!

Other ways to help:

Foster, volunteer or donate time or funding to help support efforts.
You can even purchase an animal friendly license plate and $15.62 of the annual $56.50 fee will be “allocated to the Animal Population Control Endowment Fund.”http://www.tn.gov

Other Resources
Pet Statistics, ASPCA, http://www.aspca.org/about-us/faq/pet-statistics
Spay/Neuter Statistics: People for Animals, http://www.peopleforanimals.net

The post Kitten Season appeared first on Stray Magnet | Helping Lost, Stray, and Abandoned Pets.

If a storm hits at night with lightning and thunder he is scratching at the bed and trembling. I do my best to make him feel safe and protected by creating a small, tight space between the bed and a table where he can lay with my hand on him. During the day I will turn on music, tv, extra lights anything to dull out the noise and light. I even tried the Thundershirt. I don’t remember him always being afraid of storms.Why are dogs afraid and what can you do?

It actually appears to be a common problem in dogs to be afraid of loud noises such as thunder, fireworks, guns etc. In Holly Nash’s article on Doctors Foster and Smith peteducation.com website, she noted that a recent study conducted showed “certain breeds of dogs have an above average risk of developing noise phobias” like “Collies, German Shepherds, Beagles, and Basset Hounds.” “The study also found that dogs who had separation anxiety were more likely to also have noise and thunderstorm phobias.”

Patty Khuly, a vet in Miami wrote an article for USA Today called “10 Steps to calm dogs during lightning storms.” I was doing some of the things she suggested as well as others intuitively:

Few tips to help your pet during storms:

1-Create a safe place for your pet. It could be a crate, closet, some interior space that feels safe and is comfortable.

2-Try and mute the noise-move to a quieter location and add other calming noises-music, fan etc.

3- “Counter the effects of electromagnetism” “Though it may sound like voodoo, your dog can also become sensitized to the electromagnetic radiation caused by lightning strikes. One great way to shield your dog from these potentially fear-provoking waves is to cover her crate with a double layer of heavy-duty aluminum foil. Another method involves clothing her in a commercially available “Storm Defender” cape that does the same work. If she hides under the bed, consider slipping a layer of aluminum foil between the box-spring and mattress.”

4- “Offer treats, cuddlings and other good stuff when storms happen.” “This method is best employed before the phobia sets in –– as pups. Associating loud booms with treats is never a bad thing, right?”

5- “Desensitize him.” “Sometimes it’s possible to allay the fears by using thunderstorm sound CDs when it’s not raging outside. Play it at a low volume while plying him with positive stimuli (like treats and pettings). Increase the volume all the while, getting to those uncomfortable booming sounds over a period of weeks. It works well for some.”

If nothing is working, talk to your vet about possible medication or a referral for a veterinary behaviorist.

I am thankful Winston’s response seems minor in comparison to others. Nash’s article  offers an extensive list of noise phobia signs including: “Hiding (most common sign in cats), Urinating, Defecating, Chewing, Panting, Pacing, Trying to escape (digging, jumping through windows or going through walls, running away), Drooling, Seeking the owner, Expressing anal glands, Not eating, Not listening to commands, Trembling or shaking, Dilated pupils, Vocalizing (barking or meowing).”

My sister in law, who is a vet, rescued a Border Collie when he was two. After years of enduring bad storms in southern Florida and heightened stress, anxiety and destruction she choose to let her parents, who lived in the midwest, care for him. While it was incredibly sad to not have him around daily, he was much happier in an environment that was less stressful.

Other helpful articles:
“Fear of Thunder and Other Loud Noises” Adapted from material originally developed by applied animal behavorists at teh Dumb Friends League, Dencer, Colo featured on The Humane Society of The United States

“Thunderstorms: Help Your Pet Conquer Fear” Drs. Foster & Smith Educational Staff

The post Why do some dogs fear storms? appeared first on Stray Magnet | Helping Lost, Stray, and Abandoned Pets.

Nigel’s Story

From homeless to hero… that’s the journey that Nigel is on. Nigel is Irish for “Champion” and that is what he has become.

This 2 ½ year old Airedale mix was left behind when his family moved away. A kind neighbor left food out for him, but he spent the next year wandering the neighborhood and living in the woods.

A wonderful group of women decided to help. They took him to a vet, got him groomed and medically evaluated, and planned to find a home for him. When Nigel was found to have heartworms, they asked the Music City Animal Rescue in Nashville, TN to help with his treatment. These women even raised the money to pay for it. During Nigel’s treatment, the foster saw his potential for therapy dog work and decided to keep him.

Despite his past, he has an extremely calming presence around people. He enjoys being around big groups and will make sure he visits everyone who wants to love on him. He has attended church functions, nursing homes, and events for Music City Animal Rescue as an ambassador for rescue dogs. He even attended the Midnight Jamboree, a country music radio show in Nashville. The picture of Nigel is when he attended the 2017 Breakfast with Santa as Nigel Claus. He had so much fun that day and the children loved him!

Nigel will continue to be a hero and champion in the future as he will be trained as a therapy dog.

Awards, Voting and Prizes

Voting to determine the 2018 American Hero Dog is open!
From now until 12pm Pacific Time on April 25, you can vote for your favorite dog in each of the seven categories each day, for a total of seven votes each day. This round of voting will determine the top three dogs in each category!

Seven lucky finalists and their human companions will be flown to Hollywood for a star-studded awards gala, which will be broadcast nationwide on Hallmark Channel next fall. Of all the courageous canines, one dog will be awarded the grand prize American Hero Dog title. In order to cultivate the next generation of hero dogs, American Humane will donate $2,500 to each of the seven finalist’s charity partners, and the American Hero Dog will win an additional $5,000 for their charity partner!

Key dates for the 2018 American Humane Hero Dog Awards contest include:

1st Round Voting: Now until April 25, 2018
2nd Round Voting: May 16, 2018 – July 11, 2018
3rd Round Voting: July 25, 2018 – September 5, 2018
American Humane Hero Dog Awards gala event in Los Angeles – September 29, 2018

For more information about the 2018 American Humane Hero Dog Awards®, and to vote daily in the contest, please visit www.herodogawards.org.

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We live on an incredibly busy street and immediately the head thinks of all the bad things that can happen while the heart speeds up rapidly.

The second time it happened, I was at home alone with the kids and we were actually playing in the backyard while he was with us and then he was gone. I yelled at them to get in the car, grabbed my car keys and we jumped in the car to start canvasing the area. Thankfully, we found him fairly quickly as he had run to the street behind our house and was in a neighbor’s yard a few houses down.

Fence, microchip, collar, you can have all the precautions in place and still most everyone has experienced the horrifying scare of a missing pet.

The uncertainty, the complete lack of control, the worry it’s almost paralyzing. BUT the quicker you can respond and the faster you can start the search process the more likely you will have a happy reunification.

Stray Magnet strives to be a helpful resource if you ever lose or find a pet.
The best NEWER RESCOURCE around is NEXTDOOR. It’s an online neighborhood bulletin board. We highly recommend you post pictures and information immediately on the website through your computer or the NextDoor App.

We have helpful resource section (tips and phone numbers to call), a bulletin board to post the pets picture and information and we will post the information on facebook, twitter and send out an email alert for your county. Consider helping others, by signing up to receive lost/found pet alerts for your county.

Click Here for some helpful steps if you lose your dog.

Click Here for some helpful steps if you lose your cat.

On the other side of things, you can be instrumental in helping a lost pet reunite with their owner.

Click Here for some helpful steps if you find a dog.

Click Here for some helpful steps if you find a cat.

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Dave thought he took it mainly in the face-not good but he wasn’t bitten or visibly injured. The only concern were his eyes. He was rubbing them and they were red and teary. We called our sister in law, who is a vet, to help us determine if we needed medical attention. She seemed to think it was okay to watch him and so we shifted gears to focus on the smell. Several articles conferred that tomato juice is not the way to go and the newest homemade concoction includes-baking soda, hydrogen peroxide and dishwashing detergent.

Here are the ingredients, keep them on hand

-1 quart hydrogen peroxide
-¼ cup of baking soda
-1 tsp of dishwashing detergent preferably Dawn (any will do)
***if you have a large dog you may need to double, triple the recipe

My sister in law sent a link to the very same concoction from Dr. Karen Becker. Read the article for helpful detailed directions on how to administer the bath.

I sprinted off to the nearest pharmacy to buy the critical ingredients, some gloves, and dog shampoo for after. I wished I had received my sister in law’s email first so that I could have bought enough ingredients for 2-3 treatments instead of just one. I got back, quickly made the recipe in a old juice container and Dave headed off to the self cleaning car station (only outside water source) at the apt. complex by himself because one of us had to stay with the kids. Once he left I was able to read the full article outlining the steps to treating your dog (NO WATER first). I quickly called Dave trying to stop him from putting water on the dog but I was too late.

Directions were to apply the solution directly on your dog and lather it in then let it sit until the smell subsides 5-10 minutes. Wash and repeat as necessary. ***But be very careful with the face, especially the eyes because the solution has hydrogen peroxide and could burn the eyes. Dave had enough for only one treatment, washed poor Winston off with practically a power washer and came back. He hadn’t done his face yet (bad idea with power washer) and that was the part that smelled the worst.  I located a small amount of hydrogen peroxide I had, mixed up a smaller batch in a juice box, got some towels and a sponge so we could gently apply the solution on his face, around his eyes.

We snuck Winston into the bathroom, passed a sleeping child, and washed his face and gave him a warm rinse before drying him off. All his hair in the bath stopped up the drain-oh well. He was trying to rub his eyes on me a lot. As soon as we toweled him off we put him on the little porch to dry off. He proceeded to throw up a significant amount. Thank goodness he was on the porch. It literally smelled like he had eaten the skunk. I was worried that he might be really sick and that maybe we should take him into the vet. Back to the search engines.

On all accounts nausea and throwing up seemed common after a skunk spray but the main concern were the eyes. According to a client sheet by Cheryl Yuill, DVM, MSc, CVH, if sprayed in the eyes there’s concern because “it can damage the delicate cornea of the eye and cause temporary blindness.” I called back our sister in law to see if we should go the emergency vet clinic. She thought not but said she would not be the one to tell us not to go. I called the local emergency pet clinic, Blue Pearl Veterinary Partners, to inquire about wait and cost. They were extremely cordial and said no one was waiting and it was $85 which to me seemed pretty reasonable for an after hours emergency clinic. I told the receptionist what happened and said we were concerned about the eyes and that he had thrown up. She checked with a tech and confirmed everything we had already done-bath ingredients-careful with eyes, vomiting normal and said to flush the eyes with water if possible.

While I was writing the article, Dave was off on another pharmacy run of which he has been to three because most close at 10p.m. to get saline solution and gentil, an eye lubricant to help Winston’s eye discomfort. While it was challenging couple of hours (fun Friday night) and a comedy of errors, at least the kids were asleep and we were able to give Winston our full attention. All in all, it’s good to know what to do when you are sprayed by a skunk, however unlikely.

(Originally written August 2012)

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Stationary Card Sets Available: (Cats, Flowers, Animals, Scenic and Travel)

Cat Set

-12 cards (6 different cards with 2 copies each) $15
-18 cards (6 different cards with 3 copies each) $20

This set is titled “family” and is a part of our family. We rescued the stray pregnant female May of 2015 and she is now our Mama June, a wonderful mother and sweet cat. Having just days before lost our cat of 15 years it was an incredible experience to watch the kittens grow. Want to read more about the rescue story, click here.

Flower Set

-12 cards (6 different cards with 2 copies each) $15
-18 cards (6 different cards with 3 copies each) $20

This flower set is from different areas of Nashville, Huntsville and St. Louis.

Animal Set

-12 cards (6 different cards with 2 copies each) $15
-18 cards (6 different cards with 3 copies each) $20

These animal pictures were taken on different trips from Alabama to Hawaii. There is so much beauty and strength in these amazing creatures.

Scenic Set

-12 cards (4 different cards with 3 copies each) $15

These pictures were taken from left to right (Kauai, Hawaii, Kennebunkport, Maine, Bald Head Island, NC, and the Bahamas).

Travel Set

-12 cards (4 different cards with 3 copies each) $15

All four of these photographs were taken on the beautiful island of Santorini, Greece. An unforgettable spot especially as there were community dogs lying around everywhere.

If you want to purchase cards, you may do so through our Etsy shop https://www.etsy.com/shop/StrayMagnet. Prefer to cut down on fees and have more go to the animals, just email us at contact@straymagnet.com. You can designate which animal organization your proceeds go to from our list or choose your own.

Nashville Organizations that we support:

Nashville Cat Rescue
website: http://awos.petfinder.com

Nashville Humane Association
website: www.nashvillehumane.org

Happy Tales Humane
website: happytaleshumane.com

New Leash on Life
website: newleashonline.org

Humane Society of Sumner County
website: www.sumnerhumane.org

Agape Animal Rescue
website: www.agaperescue.org

Music City Animal Rescue
website: www.MusicCityAnimalRescue.com

Proverbs 12:10 Animal Rescue
website: proverbs1210.rescuegroups.org

Walden’s Puddle Wildlife Rehabilitation Center
website: www.waldenspuddle.org

National Organizations:

ASPCA
website: https://www.aspca.org

Best Friends Animal Sanctuary
website: http://bestfriends.org

Humane Society of the United States
website: http://www.humanesociety.org

Photographs taken by Brooke Schroeder.

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