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You are here: Home / Archives for Yavapai Humane Society

Yavapai Humane Society

Considering a Pet During National Adopt a Shelter Dog Month

September 28, 2023 By quadcities Leave a Comment

Who knows, it could be the start of a fantastic “happily ever after” for everyone involved!

October is recognized as National Adopt a Shelter Dog Month, though in our hearts, every month is a celebration of adopting shelter dogs.

Many of our furry friends end up with us, and at other humane societies, through no fault of their own. The top reasons people give for surrendering their pets are often “landlord troubles,” “financial difficulties” and “moving.” So, what does that mean for you? Well, it means we’ve got a bunch of amazing, fun-loving dogs here just waiting to find their forever homes and get a fresh start in life. There are also some pups with special needs, like needing to be the only fur baby or not being a fan of little ones running around. But they all deserve a second shot at a happy life!

When an animal arrives at YHS, they are scared and unsure of what happened and why they are here in this unfamiliar place. While it’s a heart-wrenching situation, the positive side is that once they’re here, we provide them with the best care. This includes comprehensive medical attention, food, shelter and an abundance of love. Most importantly, they find safety and security, far removed from the uncertainties of life on the streets.

As we begin the process of getting these adorable pets ready for adoption, our fantastic medical team performs thorough exams. If any treatments are needed, they’re taken care of right away. We also make sure they get their vaccinations and, if necessary, are spayed or neutered. Our Behavior Team steps in to see how these pups react to all sorts of things, like other dogs, people and even sharing toys. Some dogs might stay on with the Behavior Team for some extra TLC if we think it’s needed to find them their perfect forever home. And if we have any information from their previous owners, we mix that in with what we see here, so we can paint a clear picture of their personality. It’s all about helping these pups find the right match!

Let’s not forget, in a shelter environment, dogs might not be their usual selves. They’re dealing with all sorts of new things like strange noises, sights, smells and routines, and it can really affect how they act in their kennels. Some get shy or scared and hide in a corner, while others get super excited, jumping up and barking at the kennel door. That’s why it’s important not to judge a dog solely by their first impression in a shelter. And when you bring your new furry friend home, remember, it’s not always like a feel-good Hallmark movie where everything falls into place instantly with cheerful music playing in the background. Real life with pets can have its quirks and surprises!

We like to share the 3-3-3 rule with potential pet adopter – it’s a simple guideline that applies no matter where you get your new family member. Here’s the general rule: In the first 3 days, they’re often feeling overwhelmed, scared and a bit bewildered by their new surroundings. After 3 weeks, they start to settle in, get comfy, and find a groove. And after 3 months, they’re really starting to feel at home and forming that special bond with you.

Remember, it takes time for them to adjust to you, your kids, other pets and their new surroundings. All they need from you is a little patience. It’s hard to see a dog or cat who was so happy to go home with you, returned the next day because of some understandable first-day jitters, destructive behavior or the occasional potty mishap.

There’s a misconception that animals in shelters are “damaged goods,” but that’s not true at all. I’ve been lucky enough to work here for 4½ years, and I’ve met thousands of dogs that I’d have taken home in a heartbeat if I could. We’ve got some sweet and loving furballs right here at Yavapai Humane Society, just waiting to share their love with someone like you.

As we celebrate National Adopt a Shelter Dog Month, if you’re thinking about adding a furry friend to your life, why not set up a date to meet these adorable pups? Who knows, it could be the start of a fantastic “happily ever after” for everyone involved! Give us a call at 928-445-2666 and let us help you start their new story. QCBN

By Loree Walden

Loree Walden is the marketing manager at Yavapai Humane Society.

Filed Under: Columnists Tagged With: Loree Walden, Yavapai Humane Society

Learning from Maui’s Tragedy: Getting Prepared for Emergencies

September 2, 2023 By quadcities Leave a Comment

We can always count on our pets to keep us happy. Let’s make sure our pets can count on us when an emergency happens.

We stand in solidarity with the people of Maui during this difficult time. Our hearts go out to those affected by the fires, including the furry members of families who have lost their homes.

In the wake of the devastating fire tragedy that swept through Lahaina and parts of Maui last month, a clear and strong reminder comes to light of the importance of being prepared to safeguard not only ourselves but also our beloved pets. As the flames raged and the communities tried to protect life and property, countless animals found themselves caught in the chaos. The events on Maui highlight pet vulnerability in crises and should prompt a reevaluation of our preparedness to ensure their safety and well-being during disasters.

As we learned from Maui, emergencies can strike unexpectedly, leaving us with little to no time to react and ensure the safety of our loved ones. This draws attention to the importance of a comprehensive emergency plan that includes our pets.

Ensuring your pet has accurate identification and microchipping is of the utmost importance, particularly during moments of emergencies. These measures provide a safety net that can significantly increase the likelihood of a happy reunion if your furry friend goes missing or is involved in an unforeseen situation. An ID tag with your contact information on your pet’s collar ensures that anyone who finds your pet can easily reach out to you, speeding up the process of getting them home. Additionally, microchipping offers an even more reliable method of identification, as it’s a permanent form of tagging that links your pet to a unique identification number stored in a national database. Collars can be lost or removed, but a microchip remains a reliable backup, greatly enhancing the chances of a swift reunion. Take a moment to ensure the information attached to your pet’s microchip is up to date with current contact information. If you don’t know who your microchip is registered with, take your pet to any Humane Society or your vet to have it scanned, so you know who to contact. Having proper ID and microchipping for your pet can provide invaluable peace of mind and a higher chance of a positive outcome.

Make an emergency kit for each of your pets. This kit should include everything on the list below: 

  • 5- to 7-day supply of bottled water and your pet’s food, stored in a waterproof container
  • Food and water bowls
  • Medications, veterinary/medical records and your veterinarian’s contact information
  • First Aid Kit for Pets
  • Extra leash and harness/collar
  • Flashlight and batteries
  • Potty bags
  • Current photos and description of pets
  • Blanket, favorite toys, bed, and other items to give them comfort
  • Litter, litterbox and scoop if you have cats

Most of us already have numerous pictures of our pets on our phone, but phones die if they can’t be charged, which is a possibility in an emergency situation. So, be sure to put actual printed pictures in your emergency kit along with printed versions of their medical/vaccination records, and keep these items stored in a Ziploc bag so they don’t get ruined should your emergency kit get wet. Keep your emergency kit someplace where you can get to it fast in the event you have to evacuate quickly.

Check your emergency kit regularly to make sure food and treats are still fresh and haven’t expired. The same thing applies to the items in your first aid kit for your pets, as some items and medications may also have an expiration date and need to be replaced.

Research and make a list of known evacuation shelters that accept pets so you know where to go should the need arise. If you have friends or family who are willing to care for your pets for you (and they are in a safe zone), have their contact information ready and a plan in place. These are all things to look into and set up now, as there won’t be time when an emergency strikes. Animal Disaster Services – Yavapai County is an excellent resource for emergency information.

Please do not leave your pets at home if you have to evacuate. If it’s not safe for you, it’s not safe for them. The results could be catastrophic.

Our pets are cherished members of our families, and their safety and well-being should be a top priority, especially during emergencies. Taking the time to plan and prepare can ultimately mean the difference between life and death for our beloved companions. By being proactive and considering their needs in your emergency plans, you can ensure your pets are well taken care of and that your bond remains unbreakable even in the face of adversity.

Yavapai Humane Society welcomes animal lovers, and anyone touched by the plight of these animals to join hands in contributing to Maui Humane Society’s fundraising campaign. Donations can be made online by visiting mauihumanesociety.org.

We can always count on our pets to keep us happy. Let’s make sure our pets can count on us when an emergency happens. QCBN

By Loree Walden

Loree Walden is the marketing manager of Yavapai Humane Society.

Filed Under: Columnists Tagged With: Loree Walden, Yavapai Humane Society

Time for A Walk (and THE Walk)

July 31, 2023 By quadcities Leave a Comment

It doesn’t feel like exercise, it’s more like therapy!

Don’t feel like going for a walk? Easy fix: get a dog! I’ve said it many times…I am not a fan of exercise, and it wasn’t really a big part of my life until I adopted Cassidy Roo seven-and-a-half years ago. Now, there’s a minimum of an hour walking per day. I love it and, more importantly, Cassidy Roo loves it too! The Mayo Clinic states we should get at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity a week, or a combination of moderate and vigorous activity. The guidelines suggest you spread this exercise out over the course of a week and aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate physical activity every day. And, by the way, walking does count as “moderate physical activity,” so it’s a win/win for you and your dog!

I know there are people out there who love going to the gym and can’t wait to go every day. I am NOT one of those people, so taking my dog for a walk gets me my daily fitness requirements, bring it on! It doesn’t feel like exercise, it’s more like therapy! Our pets are some of the best therapists out there and it’s amazing how well they listen. They don’t judge us for anything we tell them, nor do they tell anyone because, with them, a secret stays put. I don’t know what it is but just being out and talking to her while we’re walking makes everything better. The look she gives me is so precious and it’s like she’s saying, “I got ya, Mom, we’re in this together!” It’s also a great bonding time for us and it helps to build her trust, confidence and socialization skills. It’s a chance to get my blood moving before a long day of work and a chance to unwind and decompress after work.

Northern Arizona is absolutely spectacular. We’re lucky to have so many dog-friendly trails and hikes, the days are longer and while the temperatures are hotter, it’s still a great time to enjoy the great outdoors (just be sure to keep you and your pets safe from the heat)! Speaking of being outdoors and walking, Yavapai Humane Society is gearing up for our Walk for the Animals. We’re honored to again be partnering with Prescott Dog Magazine and their annual Dogtoberfest event for the walk. Save the date… Sunday, Oct. 1, at Watson Lake. The Walk for the Animals will start at 9:30 a.m., prior to Dogtoberfest starting so when you finish your walk you can join in on all the festivities happening at the event. The route will be approximately a mile and a half, so walkers of all skill levels can enjoy it. It will be a day of fun for humans and dogs alike! What better way to get out there with your dog and enjoy nature and a fun day, all while helping support the animals and Yavapai Humane Society. Walk as an individual or form a team. There will be prizes for the highest fundraisers both individually and as a team! Plus, during Dogtoberfest you’ll enjoy great entertainment, food trucks, vendors to visit, freebies, dogs available for adoption and so much more.

We’re really looking forward to this chance to get out and commune with nature, our dogs and each other while supporting YHS! Grab your phone and call your friends and start getting your teams together or just plan to all walk together! Your registration fee includes an awesome Walk for the Animals t-shirt and more goodies! For more information and to register, please visit yavapaihumane.org or call 928-445-2666 X117. Join the Walk for the Animals and make a difference! QCBN

By Loree Walden

Loree Walden is the Marketing Director of Yavapai Humane Society.

Filed Under: Columnists Tagged With: Loree Walden, Yavapai Humane Society

The Cat’s Meow

June 27, 2023 By quadcities Leave a Comment

Yavapai Humane Society is here for our community!

One of the things that’s so awesome about working at Yavapai Humane Society is our staff! When we say, “Caring for animals isn’t just what we do, it’s who we are,” we mean it! Every single one of our amazing team treats each and every animal we care for as if it were their own, and they often share stories with me about some of them, so I can share them with you. Here’s what Kaelyn Mitchell, one of our Cat Staff, shared with me recently.

“Figaro, Piglet, Pumba, Tiana, Timon and Nemo were a group of abandoned kittens brought to Yavapai Humane Society by Prescott Animal Control. Their story was almost cliché: they were found without their mother in a cardboard box in the middle of one of the biggest rainstorms of the season. They were brought to the shelter to be cared for, fed, and mostly dried and warmed up. These little guys were hungry, had a big appetite and were very ready to chow down!

The litter was split evenly, with 3 boys and 3 girls. At first, all they wanted to do was eat and sleep. These little kittens were very small, most of them being less than a pound during their first intake exam, and just barely a month old. They were perfectly content with snuggling up in their warm bed with each other and staying super close. As they got older, and grew, we saw these little fighters transform from tiny tots to wild, bouncy and bubbly babies ready for new furever families! Their kennel was completely covered in toys, and they would play with just about anything they could get their wild little paws on.

Once they were vaccinated and spayed or neutered by our clinic staff, these little ones all ended up making the trip to our Cat Adoption Center at PetSmart to find a home. None of them were there for more than a couple of days. One by one, each one of these little cuties got swooped up into loving arms. Some went to be the first kitten of families, some went to join families who already had cats, and Pumba and Piglet actually got to go to their new home together! All six have found loving homes that are just the right fit for them as they grow into adults that will be just as rowdy as they were as the little babies we cared for.

All of us on the Cat Staff were so lucky to be able to help these little ones, who had a rough start to life, and see them flourish into bright and adventurous babies who were so full of curiosity for the world and the excitement to explore it. It was so rewarding to watch them grow- even if sometimes it felt like we’d blink, and they’d double in size! The whole “Disney”-themed named group definitely stole our hearts, and we were so happy to see them steal the hearts of the lovely people who took them home. They will be so, so loved!

Yavapai Humane Society is here for our community! We are here for the animals and yes, it’s true…like I said above, caring for animals isn’t just what we do, it’s who we are! If you are interested in adding to your family, visit our website at yavapaihumane.org. Kaelyn and our amazing Adoptions Team are here to help you find your new furry family member, who might just be here at Yavapai Humane Society, waiting for you! QCBN

By Loree Walden

Loree Walden is the Marketing Director & Kaelyn Mitchell is the Animal & Customer Care Specialist.

Filed Under: Columnists Tagged With: Kaelyn Mitchell, Loree Walden, Yavapai Humane Society

June is National Microchipping Month, Emergency Preparedness Month, and Adopt a Shelter Cat Month

May 26, 2023 By quadcities Leave a Comment

Microchipping your pets is important because collars and tags can easily become lost or removed. A microchip provides a permanent form of identification that cannot be lost or altered.

June is National Microchipping Month! Microchipping is a safe and effective way to ensure your pets can be identified quickly and come home safe to you if they ever become lost or stolen. A microchip is a small device, about the size of a grain of rice, which is inserted under your pet’s skin. It contains a unique identification number that is linked to your contact information in a database, which can be read using a special scanner. When a lost or stray animal is brought to Yavapai Humane Society, picked up by Animal Control or taken to a veterinary clinic, they can scan for a microchip and use the information in the database to contact the pet’s owner.

Microchipping your pets is important because collars and tags can easily become lost or removed. A microchip provides a permanent form of identification that cannot be lost or altered. Having your pet microchipped can give you peace of mind, knowing you have taken an important step to protect them and increase the chances of being reunited if they ever become lost. With the 4th of July coming up next month, it’s a good time to make sure your pet is microchipped and most importantly, the contact information on file with your microchip company is current. If you have moved or changed your phone number, be sure to update the information.

June is also National Pet Preparedness Month! Being prepared for your pet in an emergency is an important part of responsible pet ownership. Just like us, our pets are also affected by natural disasters, accidents and other emergencies, and it is important to have a plan in place to ensure their safety.

Prepare an emergency kit for your pet. This kit should include items such as food, water, medication, potty bags, blankets and/or towels, a favorite toy to help keep them calm, first aid supplies, as well as all important documents such as vaccination records and contact information for your veterinarian. Make sure your kit is easily accessible and kept in a waterproof container. Also, be sure to check the items in it regularly to make sure the food and medications have not expired.

Create a plan for evacuation or sheltering in place if that is a safe option. Know which shelters or hotels in your area allow pets and have a plan in place for how you will transport your pet if necessary. By taking these steps to prepare for your pet in an emergency, you can help ensure their safety and well-being in a time of crisis.

National Adopt A Shelter Cat Month is also celebrated in June! Although, at Yavapai Humane Society, we believe every month should be National Adopt A Shelter Cat Month.

Adopting a cat can be a life-changing experience for both you and the cat and has many benefits. Adoptable cats at Yavapai Humane Society are already spayed or neutered, vaccinated and microchipped, which can save you money and time.

It can also be very fulfilling, as many cats who end up in shelters have been abandoned, abused or neglected. By providing them with a safe and loving home, you’re helping them to heal and regain trust in humans. It can also bring joy and companionship to your life as cats make great friends, and adopting a cat from a shelter can provide a sense of joy knowing you have made a positive impact in the life of a furry friend. In addition, studies have shown that having a cat has numerous health benefits, including lower blood pressure and reduced stress levels.

Adopting a cat is also a way to support YHS and its mission. We rely on donations and support from the community to continue our operations and care for the animals. By adopting, you are not only helping the cat but also supporting our efforts to rescue, care for and rehome more animals in need.

We have cats of all ages and breeds, from playful kittens to senior cats. By adopting, you can find a cat that fits your lifestyle, whether you’re looking for a companion to curl up with on the couch or a playful friend to keep you on your toes.

Whether you’re a first-time cat owner or an experienced cat parent, there is a shelter cat out there waiting for you. So why not consider adopting and making a difference in the life of a furry friend today? Visit yavapaihumane.org to see all the pets available for adoption and give us a call at 928-445-2666 to come meet them! QCBN

By Loree Walden

Loree Mae Walden, marketing director for Yavapai Humane Society.

Filed Under: Columnists Tagged With: Loree Walden, Yavapai Humane Society

Shelters Seeing Uptick in Pet Adoptions

April 3, 2023 By quadcities Leave a Comment

Tour for Life and springtime mean more homes for homeless dogs and cats.

Spring is a great time for new beginnings, and for thousands of homeless animals across the country, it may be just the right time to find loving, responsible forever families. That’s because the national 2023 Tour for Life event runs through April in collaboration with shelters and rescue partners in 66 cities and towns across 39 states.

For example, four dogs are settling into a happy home life with families who have just adopted them. Lotus, a Basenji fox terrier mix; Poncho, a Bernese Mountain dog; Brody, a shepherd mix; and Milo, a whippet, had all just spent about nine long months in their kennels at the Coconino Humane Association (CHA) on East Butler Avenue in Flagstaff.

Three lucky cats, Victoria, 4; Moose, 3; and Tink, 4, were also among the 19 cats and 11 dogs who found nice homes during the Tour for Life event at CHA March 13 through March 19.

Starting in mid-March, annual Tour for Life events run for eight weeks and bring organizations that help homeless animals together to facilitate the adoption process for animals in need.

“All of our shelters are pushing for adoption in the spring to make space,” said CHA Executive Director Michelle Ryan. “Pre-COVID, we would typically run at about 30 to 40% capacity. Now we are at about 98 to 102% capacity. We are getting puppies and kittens 12 months of the year.”

The shelter has about 150 animals currently and the newly adopted pets, except the four longer-resident dogs, had come into CHA since January.

The Tour for Life adoptions represented a little more than twice as many adoptions as the previous month, she added. Those adopting during the tour receive a $50 discount.

“The fee includes spay/neuter procedures, vaccines, including rabies, a microchip, including registration, and they are dewormed and receive preventative flea and tick medicines,” she said.

At CHA, the fees are $265 for puppies and $175 for kitties. For adult animals older than 6 months, dogs fees are $210, $135 for cats. Senior and special-needs animals are from $0 to $50.

“Adopting is a big bang for your buck. Typically, it can be $650 or more in Flagstaff if you bought a dog or found a dog, or your neighbor gave you a gift of a dog.”

Since its inception in 2001, the annual Tour for Life event has brought attention to the plight of homeless animals and has reached great success by finding homes for more than 28,000 animals.

Tour for Life was conceived by North Shore Animal League America, the world’s largest no-kill animal rescue and adoption organization. According to a league press release, the organization has saved more than 1.1 million animals during its 80 years of existence. In addition, the league operates a nationwide referral network for affordable spay and neuter services.

The tour this year is in partnership with talk show host Rachael Ray and her Nutrish pet food brand, which offers dog and cat food and snacks inspired by recipes created in Ray’s kitchen featuring “real ingredients” suitable for a “variety of pet diets,” according to a Nutrish press release.

Some factors creating overcrowded conditions in shelters since the pandemic began include a drop in staffing and a reduction in affordable locations for spay and neuter surgeries. “It’s been a huge struggle,” Ryan said. “We used to hire mobile clinics out of Tucson. But because of post-pandemic life, they didn’t have the staffing to do it.  There have been no clinics up here for a year.”

A big garage at CHA that used to store pet food is being converted into a clinic and is expected to be ready for low-cost spay and neuter surgeries by the fall. “We are also hiring a volunteer coordinator to set up more adoption events than we have right now.”

Monthly adoption events are held at the Continental Country Club and at Bookmans Flagstaff Entertainment Exchange. CHA will also have a presence at the Celtic Festival and Doney Park Community Market this month through the summer. Cats and dogs are at Petco twice a month.

Staff at CHA will also take adoptable dogs and puppies (who tolerate heat better than cats and kittens) to Sedona in October during the Wild Cat Carnival at West Sedona Elementary School.

In the Prescott area, the Yavapai Humane Society (YHS) on Sundog Ranch Road also has been highlighting spring pet adoption with its “Hello Spring, Opt to Adopt” motto.

“Better weather is always better for adoption meet and greets,” said Loree Walden, marketing manager at YHS. “No one wants to be out in a windy snowstorm or rainy day trying to get to know a dog. A nice, beautiful day is always best, but we are always available with our animals to do a meet and greet for anyone who would like to make an appointment to come meet these precious animals, as long as it is safe for the animal, our staff and customers.”

YHS, which celebrated its 50th anniversary last year, hosted a successful, three-day “Feeling Lucky” event on Saint Patrick’s Day weekend. The society had a “pick your price” special on adult dogs and cats, and 27 animals went home – 22 dogs and five cats.

Although spring brings an uptick in adoption, the pressing need to find reliable and safe homes for animals is an ongoing challenge. “It’s important year-round, every single day of the year, to find homes for our animals,” Walden said. “In the spring, we see an increase in puppies and kittens, because it is their season and many of the older or bigger dogs get overlooked because, of course, everyone wants a puppy. Shelters nationwide are full and unfortunately will never run out of animals needing homes as more animals are surrendered or brought in as strays every day.”

YHS is scheduled to conduct a Community Pet Food Pantry Food Drive and National Adopt A Shelter Day Adoption Special from 11:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Saturday, April 29. “We’ll have KKLD and KRVD here broadcasting live,” Walden said. “Gringo’s Street Tacos Food Truck will be here, a photo booth to take pictures with your pup, information booths and an adoption special, which will probably be ‘pick your price’ for dogs over 6 months old and over 15 pounds and cats over 6 months old. Our hope is that by providing the Community Pet Food Pantry, pet owners know they have a place to go to provide their pets with food, and they don’t have to surrender them because they cannot afford food.”

The YHS Community Pet Food Pantry is being made possible through donations. QCBN

By Betsey Bruner, QCBN

Courtesy Photo: Twenty-seven animals found new homes on St. Patrick’s Day weekend, including this dog named Gina, through a Yavapai Humane Society adoption event. 

Filed Under: Business, Education, Local News, Tourism Tagged With: Loree Walden, Yavapai Humane Society

Are Your Precious Pets Stressed?

April 3, 2023 By quadcities Leave a Comment

Our dogs aren’t the only ones who feel stress! Our furry felines can suffer as well.

There’s stress all around us: Whether it be work, school, health, family or financial…there’s no way to avoid it. Stress affects not only us but our 4-legged family members also.  We know how it makes us feel, so we certainly want to help alleviate our pet’s stress. Some signs of their stress and anxiety are subtle and some are very obvious, so knowing the signs to look for is the first step to helping them.  Here’s a little information on some of the signs to look for with your dog:

  • Barking or Whining: While these are normal ways of expressing themselves, it may also be a sign they are tense or afraid of something. They may be trying to get your attention to let you know about something or they’re trying to make themselves feel better.
  • Increased yawning: While dogs do yawn when they are bored or tired, they also yawn when they are stressed. The stressed yawn is longer and more frequent, so keep an eye out for this sign.
  • Shedding, shaking & pacing: Have you noticed how much more your dog sheds when taking them to your vet’s office? This is another sign of feeling anxious or stressed.  While it’s often normal that your dog may do the full body shake after rolling around in the grass or a bath, it could also be because of a situation that has made them feel stressed.
  • Panting for no reason: It’s normal for a dog to pant after a nice long walk or hike, when they are excited about something or when it’s hot outside… but if none of that applies and they are panting, this is another sign of stress or anxiety.
  • Tucked tail, pinned back ears, and change in eyes: When scared or stressed, dogs often tuck their tails, and ears that are usually relaxed become pinned back against the head. Often their pupils might be slightly more dilated, or they open their eyes wider, showing more of the white.
  • Eating more (or less) than usual.
  • Changes in their bathroom habits, having a hard time going to the bathroom, diarrhea, or loose stool.

So, how can we help them to handle the stress? First of all, try to identify and remove them from the stressful situation and give them some comfort to help calm them down.  Don’t overly comfort them, as you don’t want to justify their fears making their reaction the norm.  Give them some mental stimulation to get their mind off whatever’s bothering them. It’s always a good idea to have a safe space for them with their bed, blanket, or favorite toy so they can escape to that place and relax when needed. It also helps to have calming background music on to help them relax. I leave music on all day for my pets, and I think it helps them to be more relaxed.

And remember dogs sense our emotions so try to stay calm and relaxed around them. If you’re stressed out why not sit down with your dog and talk to it, play with it, or pet it and you’ll be amazed at how much better you’ll both feel. Physical exercise is a great stress reliever too, so why not take your pup out for a walk. It’s a “win win” for both of you!

Our dogs aren’t the only ones who feel stress! Our furry felines can suffer as well. They display signs of stress through changes in them physically and behaviorally. Some of these signs include:

  • Diarrhea, vomiting, runny nose and eyes.
  • Eating and/or drinking more or less than usual.
  • Sleeping more than usual and looking lethargic.
  • Going to the bathroom outside of the litter box.
  • Excessive scratching of furniture or scratching post.
  • Aggressive behavior directed at you, your family or other pets in the home.
  • Meowing more than usual.
  • Hiding and/or withdrawing from family interaction OR needing more attention than usual.
  • Frequent head shaking, crouching, and looking tense or staring with a glazed expression.

Just like with dogs, it’s important to try to identify the cause of stress as many of these symptoms of stress can turn into serious medical problems or illness. Cats, as we know, can be very finicky and are used to things a certain way and are basically creatures of habit. So, any disruption to their norm can be a cause of stress. Things like bringing in a new pet or baby, changing the furniture or rearranging it, new people visiting your home or even a change in your daily routine can be upsetting to them.

There are a number of over the counter calming treatments for both dogs and cats which may help alleviate their stress but before starting anything, the first thing to do is schedule an appointment with your veterinarian to make sure there aren’t underlying medical issues causing the change in their behavior/personalities.

Making sure our pets are happy and healthy will help them live long lives filling ours with the joy and love only our pets can provide. QCBN

By Loree Mae Walden

By Loree Mae Walden, marketing director for Yavapai Humane Society.

Filed Under: Columnists Tagged With: Loree Mae Walden, stress in cats, stress in dogs, Yavapai Humane Society

Let’s Go for A Walk Together

February 24, 2023 By quadcities Leave a Comment

Not only is walking your dog a stress-reducer and time to commune with nature, but it also keeps both you and your dog healthy.

Do you sometimes feel that taking your dog out for a walk is more of a chore than an enjoyment? In all honesty, I can say for me, sometimes it does feel that way. Waking up early, piling on layers of warm clothes and boots and having to go out is not my idea of a good time, especially if it’s snowing or raining. The funny thing is once I get out there and start walking with my girl, I almost immediately have an “attitude adjustment” and start to get a little pep in my step and enjoy my time outside with her. I find myself talking to her about what the day is going to hold, telling her how cute she is, stopping with her to look at a plant or flower, and just enjoying nature. Of course, after a long day at work, the last thing I want to do is come home and go out for another walk, but I have gotten to the point now where I look forward to that time, as well. When I head out with my girl, I talk to her and tell her about how my day was and it/she just seems to make all the stress of the day go away. It’s like a walking therapy session in a no judgement zone! She’s not judging me about anything I’m telling her, or how fast or slow I’m walking. She’s just happy we’re together, and so am I.

Not only is walking your dog a stress-reducer and time to commune with nature, but it also keeps both you and your dog healthy. It’s a great way for them to burn off some energy, and help with joint health and weight issues, especially if they just lie around all day while you’re at work. I know my girl comes running to the front door when I get home and can’t wait to get out there and go, go, go! Our time out walking is exercise for her and for me too, and what’s great is it doesn’t even really feel like I’m exercising. We usually walk for 30 minutes every morning and about 45 minutes every afternoon, which means that I’m getting an average of over an hour of exercise every day and she is too, which is a good thing as she’s a big fan of treats, and I haven’t mastered the art of saying “no” to her!

Another benefit of taking your dog out for a walk is socialization for both them and you! When you meet up with other dog people, there is almost always some sort of conversation that happens while your furry friends check each other out. It gives you an opportunity to make new friends and possibly even future playdates for your dogs. My dog is really friendly and will pretty much try to love on everybody she meets. There are a couple people in the senior community near my apartment who are always sitting outside when Cassidy and I are out, and she runs right up to them. They get such a kick out of it and love spending time with her, while she’s loving on them. It’s good for her and them!

Perhaps the greatest benefit of taking your dog out for a walk is the one-on-one time you have together. My dog is learning to trust me more when I say “it’s OK, I got you” if she sees a bigger dog, or a loud car or truck goes by and spooks her. I love when we’re walking and she’s ahead of me and stops and looks at me to make sure I’m there and then we continue on. It’s almost like she’s saying, “Come on, mom, let’s do this together.” Taking your dog for walks every day offers the opportunity for both of you to continue to bond, which helps create a strong and happy relationship. Your dog is also likely to be more well-behaved and listen to you better when you have a good, strong bond. It’s fun to watch her explore new things that she sees or smells, and sometimes I have to chuckle at her curiosity, especially when she’s looking at something and then looks up at me almost as if to say, “What’s this?” She’s made me try to look at the world with the same curiosity as she has, and it has made me a think about even the simplest things a little differently. Who knew walking your dog could do so much?

If you’re looking for a walking buddy, there are a lot of them waiting for you, and a new home, at Yavapai Humane Society! Visit our website at yavapaihumane.org to see all their pictures and then make an appointment at 928-445-2666 to come meet your new best friend. QCBN

By Loree Walden

Loree Walden is the marketing manager at Yavapai Humane Society.

Filed Under: Columnists Tagged With: Loree Walden, walking your dog, Yavapai Humane Society

Feeling the Love From Pets

January 27, 2023 By quadcities Leave a Comment

It’s a song we can sing to our pets and if they could sing, would sing along right back to us: I’m hopelessly devoted to you.

February is traditionally known as the month of love! If you need a little inspiration to understand and remember what unconditional love is, just take a look at your pets.

We’ve all heard the saying “a dog is the only thing on earth that loves you more than it loves itself.” Just look into their eyes and you can feel that love. We can learn so much about love from our pets. Like pure devotion to you and you alone! They’ll cuddle up with you when you don’t feel good or had a bad day, they’re always ready to listen to you and they will never share your secrets. They will never leave you or disappoint you, and they only want to make you happy. They’re always excited to see you, they love to smother you with kisses and can’t wait to go for a walk together. They’re alw  ays ready to snuggle up on the couch with you and watch a good movie together and don’t care what movie it is as long as they get to spend time with you. Really, they’re just the perfect example of love!

They don’t care what we look like, what kind of car we drive, what kind of job we have or if we’re rich or poor. They don’t discriminate or hold grudges. However, they are great judges of character and can sense when danger is near. They can sense when we are sick and can help prevent medical emergencies. They can help us lower blood pressure by just petting them. They give emotional support to those who need it and even help the blind get around. They’ll run into a burning building to save you and will always protect you. Really, they’re just the perfect example of love!

The best part is they don’t expect anything from us except to love them back, keep them safe and of course, feed them. Yes, they love it when we play with them, take them for a ride, go out for an adventure or a special treat, but they don’t expect it! That’s what’s so great about our furry little family members, they just love us…because! So many lessons to be learned from these wise souls who have blessed our lives with such incredible love!

Now, we can’t forget about our furry little felines. Dog people think dogs hold all the love and devotion, but cats give just as much! I’m blessed to have both in my life, and I can say beyond a shadow of a doubt that my cats are as devoted and loving as my dog! Again, they don’t care what I’m wearing, if I have makeup on or if the house needs vacuuming! They greet me at the door when I come home, rub up against my legs while I’m making dinner, don’t let me go to the bathroom alone and give me endless head bumps while cuddling together.

Cats are also really tuned into our emotions and can be extremely comforting. I’ve had Pooh Bear for 12 years and I can tell you that every time I cry, he comes over to me, jumps on my lap and reaches up and wipes my tears! He looks at me and lets out a gentle little meow that just warms my heart. It’s like he’s saying, “It’s OK Mom, I’m here and I’ll make it all better.” And ya know what? He does! He listens to me tell him about why I’m crying or sad and he doesn’t judge me for it. He is just there for me no matter what! We need more people like that in our lives!

It’s why I don’t understand why people abandon their pets. Why would you give up the dog you’ve had for 10 years because he doesn’t get along with your new puppy? Why would you move to a new apartment/home and leave your beloved dog behind because they don’t accept pets? Why would you leave your dog chained up outside in the cold and not let them inside to cuddle with you and share a warm bed? These animals have feelings, emotions, feel pain and deserve to be loved as much as they love us, unconditionally! The love of a pet is like no other love we will ever know.

So, take a moment and look into your pet’s eyes and see the love and devotion they have for you. I’ll end this with words from a song from one of my favorite movies, “Grease.” It’s a song we can sing to our pets and if they could sing, would sing along right back to us: I’m hopelessly devoted to you.

If you’re looking for unconditional love and devotion, please make an appointment to visit Yavapai Humane Society and… feel the love. QCBN

By Loree Walden

Loree Walden is the marketing manager at Yavapai Humane Society.

Filed Under: Columnists Tagged With: Loree Walden, Yavapai Humane Society

Baby, It’s Cold Outside!

December 27, 2022 By quadcities Leave a Comment

If it’s too cold for you outside, it’s also too cold for your furry family member.

It’s time to get prepared: Winter is in full swing, and it brings the dangers of severe cold weather, snow, ice and even power outages. It’s a good idea to prepare a disaster/emergency kit and include your pet in those preparations. Be sure to have enough non-perishable food, water and any prescription medications for you and your pets (as well as heartworm and flea/tick preventives) on hand to get through at least five days.

Just like us, our pets like a nice comfy place to sleep and may change their location if they need more or less warmth. I have a small space heater in my bathroom and my cat curls up in front of it and stays there all day and night. Give them options that allow them to change their sleeping place to adapt to their needs. Just like us, they want (and deserve) a nice warm bed to sleep in!

We’ve all seen the heartbreaking pictures of dogs or cats left outdoors during winter storms and snow. Just don’t do it! Let them in. They’re your family, and you wouldn’t want to sleep out in that kind of weather, so why would you make your pet? It’s a common belief that dogs and cats are more resilient than people to cold weather because of their fur, but it’s simply not true. Just like us, they are susceptible to frostbite and hypothermia, and it can come on quickly. Longer-haired and thick-coated dog breeds, such as huskies and other dogs bred for colder climates, are more tolerant of cold weather; but no pet should be left outside for long periods in freezing weather. Some dogs love to go out and play in the snow and that’s fine, but don’t leave them out too long where you are putting them in danger! If they get too cold, it lowers their immune system putting them at risk of upper respiratory illnesses and colds, just like us! Never shave your dog down to the skin in the winter as a longer coat will provide more warmth. Smaller dogs, short-haired dogs and older dogs should wear a sweater or doggie parka to help keep them warm and doggie boots are always recommended because they protect their paws from the salt commonly used to de-ice sidewalks.

Speaking of their paws, check them regularly for signs of cold-weather injury or damage, such as cracked paw pads or bleeding. When you get back inside after a walk, wash your pet’s feet, legs and belly to remove deicers, antifreeze or other chemicals that could be toxic to reduce the risk of them being poisoned if they should lick their feet or fur. Antifreeze can be lethal. It tastes sweet to pets but it contains a toxic agent, so be aware if your dog starts sniffing around in a driveway or parking lot, because it’s possible someone may have spilled antifreeze and your dog could consume it. If you think your pet has consumed antifreeze, contact your veterinarian immediately.

Finally, don’t leave your dog in a car during cold weather, as cars can act as refrigerators that hold in the cold and can cause serious injury or even cause them to freeze to death. Just like in the summer where your car can literally turn into an oven, in the winter, it becomes a freezer.

What it comes down to is this: If it’s too cold for you outside, it’s also too cold for your furry family member. Taking a few extra minutes and some simple precautions can prevent discomfort, illness and injuries to your precious pet during this colder time of year. QCBN

By Loree Walden

Loree Walden is the marketing manager at Yavapai Humane Society.

Filed Under: Columnists Tagged With: cold weather, Dogs, Loree Walden, pets, winter, Yavapai Humane Society

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