Monday, October 17, 2011
Court Considers the "Value" of Dogs in Accessing Damages to Owners.
APPEALS COURT CONSIDERS NONECONOMIC DAMAGES OWED TO THE OWNERS OF DOGS POISONED BY NEIGHBORWhat Is a Dog Worth? Oral Argument in Heartbreaking Case Addresses How Our Legal System Values Companion Animals For immediate release:October 17, 2011 Tomorrow morning, the Colorado Court of Appeals will hear oral arguments in a case regarding the damages owed to several pet owners whose five beloved dogs were killed in 2006 after eating poisoned meat left near their property in Adams County by a neighbor who said he was attempting to kill coyotes. The national non-profit Animal Legal Defense Fund (ALDF) filed an amicus curiae (“friend of the court”) brief in the appeal after the trial court instructed the jury that the dog owners’ economic damages should be measured by the market value “cost” of their dogs, rather than the true “value” of their dogs. As a result of this and other rulings of the trial court, the monetary damages awarded to the plaintiffs at the trial court level did not adequately compensate the plaintiffs for their noneconomic losses that resulted from the terrifying deaths of their unique, irreplaceable animal companions. The plaintiffs include veterinarians, a horse trainer, and a boy who was nine-years-old at the time of the incident; their dogs Boomer, Kirby, Rooster, Tanner, and Doc all ate chicken meat that Daniel Bowen left outside after soaking it for two days in a highly poisonous herbicide—and suffered torturous deaths as a result. Doc died relatively quickly, but the other dogs were in agonizing distress for over a week, while their owners spent thousands of dollars on veterinary care, missed significant time from work, and endured excruciating emotional distress before their beloved companions succumbed. Bowen was charged with criminal cruelty to animals (charges were later dismissed on a technicality), and plaintiffs testified that he did not apologize and expressed no remorse for the deaths of their dogs. In tomorrow’s hearing, the plaintiffs’ attorneys will argue, among other legal issues, and supported by the Animal Legal Defense Fund’s amicus brief, that the law recognizes companion animals as a special kind of property, different than a table or a car, and that they cannot be assigned value in the same way as an inanimate object. Further, they will argue that because the jury in Sullivan et al. v. Bowen was incorrectly instructed on how to attach a value to the lost dogs and all of the injuries the plaintiffs suffered, the plaintiffs were denied the full damages to which they were entitled. “When cherished pets die, the sense of emotional loss is real— and when they are gone, they are irreplaceable. Thus, their actual value far exceeds the sticker price of another animal of the same species,” explains ALDF Executive Director Stephen Wells. “Jurisdictions across the nation are now recognizing that when people lose their companion animals through an act of abuse or negligence, they are entitled to damages that accurately reflect those losses.” Attorney Kate Burke of Durango, representing the plaintiffs along with Denver attorney Rosemary Orsini, said she hopes that the Sullivan case will “encourage Colorado to join those states that apply an ‘actual value’ or ‘special value’ test to measure the losses when companion animals are wrongfully injured or killed.” The Animal Legal Defense Fund’s amicus curiae brief can be viewed on the Court’s website at: http://www.courts.state.co.us/userfiles/file/Court_Probation/Educational_Resources/2011/Fountain-Fort%20Carson/21_5%20AMICUS%20Sullivan%20v%20Bowen%281%29.pdf. All court briefs in Kathleen Sullivan et al. v. Daniel Bowen can be viewed at: http://www.courts.state.co.us/Courts/Education/Materials.cfm?s=Fall&y=2011. Oral argument is being heard by the Court of Appeals at Fountain-Fort Carson High School as a part of the Courts in the Community program, designed to give high school students a hands-on experience of the Colorado judicial system. ALDF was founded in 1979 with the unique mission of protecting the lives and advancing the interests of animals through the legal system. For more information, please visit www.aldf.org.
DIE OF / MARINE WILDLIFE / ALASKA, SEAL, WALRUS
***********************************
A ProMED-mail post
ProMED-mail is a program of the
International Society for Infectious Diseases
Date: Fri 14 Oct 2011
From: Per Leines Lausund[edited]
We had problems with increased mortality in grey seals in the North
Sea countries in the late 1980s due to mass migration of Greenland
seal to new areas (reduced number of human and furred predators had
something to do with that; the increasing numbers of Greenland seals
obviously found the fish-rich coast of Norway enticing!) bringing with
them a morbilli (distemper) virus they were adapted to, whereas the
grey seals were not. Might be worth checking.
--
Lt Col Per Leines Lausund DVM MPH
Staff Veterinary Officer
Defence Command Norway
******
[2]
Date: Fri 14 Oct 2011
Source: Alaska Dispatch [edited]
Arctic ringed seals aren't the only marine mammals suffering an
unusual skin-lesion outbreak along Alaska's northern coasts.
Walruses that have hauled out by the thousands at Point Lay in
Northwest Alaska during recent summers -- an event driven by climate
change -- are also turning up with bizarre, festering sores.
Scientists estimate perhaps 600 are infected. Instead of wounds on
their faces and rear flippers, red abscesses pepper the animals'
entire bodies. But apparently only a few have perished.
Still, scientists from a number of agencies are working to answer
several questions, including whether the outbreaks in the 2 species
are related. They also worry the lesions could eventually lead to
deaths among Pacific walrus, an animal more than 100 000 strong that's
being considered for protections under the Endangered Species Act.
"Is it the bubonic plague or just a really bad case of acne?" asked
Tony Fischbach, a federal walrus biologist who first noticed the sores
on some walruses late this summer [2011].
As in the case of the ringed seals, biologists are working with the
North Slope Borough Department of Wildlife Management, pathology
experts, and others. They've sent skin and tissue samples to labs in
the US and Canada, but haven't pinpointed a cause. Everything from
viruses to toxins is being considered.
It doesn't appear that a huge numbers of walruses have the lesions. At
various times, an estimated 20 000 walruses have gathered on the
beach.
Leo Ferreira III, the former mayor in Point Lay, a village of 200
residents west of Barrow, said the sores seem to have contributed to
the deaths of some walruses.
"Most of them that are dying got the lesions on them," said Ferreira,
an Inupiat walrus hunter. He provided a little help last month
[September 2011] as scientists collected flesh samples from the
animals for testing. He's seen 2 dead ones with lesions.
"This is the 1st time this is happening," he said. "But this is also
happening with the ringed seals. We're very concerned. It's because we
think there is a disease spreading through them."
Sprawling walrus herds began hauling out on the beach near the village
in 2007, for the 1st time in memory, as temperatures warmed. Walrus
experts say it's because climate change has melted the sea ice the
animals normally use as a diving platform for bottom foraging.
Fischbach said biologists this summer witnessed new behavior among the
walruses at Point Lay. Previously, they did their diving for clams and
mud-dwelling worms near the beach. But that's not a rich feeding
ground.
So many walruses used the Point Lay beaches as their base camp. They
made long trips to feed at a site about 100 miles [160 km] off the
coast of Wainwright, a village north east of Point Lay. With the ice
gone, the walruses had no place to rest, Fischbach said. Some would
swim for 2 weeks before they returned to the beach, where they'd rest
a few days before leaving on another long trip.
Fischbach first spotted a sick walrus in late August [2011]. He was
there for an unrelated radio-tagging effort. On the edge of a huge
herd of animals, he crawled across the beach, trying to stay low and
out of sight.
One day he came across an abandoned calf that barely moved and
appeared to be dying. He first thought sea gulls had picked at it, but
he later saw other walruses with similar sores. "This little guy had
lesions all over him," Fischbach said. "That caused me concern because
it was near death."
Almost every walrus that swam onto the beach, especially single female
adults, approached the calf. Some tried nudging it toward the herd,
without results. "They seemed to be very interested in it, but they
moved on after a while," Fischbach said.
Fischbach saw other walruses with the lesions, but they appeared to be
healthy despite the open wounds across their body. The sores weren't
from jousting with tusks, something walruses are famous for when
gathered in herds.
"These lesions are very different from scars and tusk strikes," said
Fischbach. "Those heal up right away. This was different because
across the entire body you had large pock marks, like a really bad
case of acne."
He didn't know how many had been affected, because he was on the edge
of the herd. But he reported the sightings to the US Fish and Wildlife
Service.
Scientists who flew to the scene to assess the problem have estimated
that 6 per cent of the 10 000 to 20 000 animals that have hauled out
near Point Lay have the lesions, said Jason Herreman, a biologist with
the North Slope Borough. That would mean at least 600 had the
lesions.
Several groups are now working to determine the cause of the wounds,
said Teri Rowles, coordinator of the Marine Mammal Health and
Stranding Response Program under the National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration.
They're also working on the ringed seal problem. In recent weeks,
North Slope Borough biologists have found close to 50 dead ringed
seals that had lesions and patchy hair loss. Julie Speegle of NOAA
[National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration] said [that] lesions
have been found in the animals' respiratory system, liver, heart, and
brain as well.
The NOAA office in Alaska is also working with the borough's
department to prepare data to request a finding of an "unusual
mortality event" for the ringed seals, Rowles said.
Such a finding, allowed under the Marine Mammal Protection Act, could
free up federal funds and additional experts to determine what's
hurting the seals. Once a request is submitted, an international panel
of experts will determine if the ringed seals qualify for the
finding.
The outbreak among ringed seals is reportedly occurring in Chukotka,
Russia, and in northern Canada, and officials said they are working
with biologists to determine if there's a link with seals in those
countries. Harp seals in Greenland had similar problems earlier this
year [2011].
"We don't know what's going on, but we're looking at infectious
agents," Rowles said. "Is it bacterial, viral, fungal? And we're
looking at biotoxins and other chemical contaminants, as well as
overall metabolism."
Is it possible the animals more prone to illness because they're now
forced to swim long distances that leave them fatigued with weak
immune systems?
"That's one of the concerns," said Rosa Meehan, chief of the Marine
Mammals Management division in the US Fish and Wildlife Service. "As
their environment changes they may become more susceptible to things
like disease."
Back in Point Lay, many of the walruses have left their beach haul-out
and moved on for the winter, some likely to beach haul-outs in Russia,
she said. Ferreira said that a few have stuck around near the village.
If they're still there by the time the lagoon outside the village
freezes, he said he'll head across the ice and kill one for food. But
he'll avoid the sick animals. "I'd rather not," he said. "This is the
1st time I've seen this kind of thing."
[byline: Alex DeMarban]
--
communicated by:
ProMED-mail from HealthMap alerts
[Many thanks to Dr Per Lausund for his comments. We are awaiting more
information on this die-off. - Mod.MPP
Mass seal mortality associated with phocine distemper virus (PDV)
infection has been documented several times along the European and
North American coasts. The virus was first documented in 1988, when
harbor seals (_Phoca vitulina_) and gray seals (_Halichoerus grypus_)
died in large numbers off the coast of northern Europe (the episode
referred to above by Dr Per Lausund). A more recent episode in Europe
occurred in 2002, with an estimated 30 000 harbor and gray seal
deaths.
Millions of seals of various species inhabit the waters surrounding
North America; populations of most species are believed to be stable
or increasing, and no epidemics on the scale of those reported in
Europe have been reported. PDV disease in the United States was first
reported in harbor seals on the east coast during the winter of
1991-92, and serologic testing of gray and harbor seals suggested that
a PDV-like strain or strains were circulating enzootically in the
region. The clinical signs associated with PDV infection are tremors,
spasms, respiratory distress, and abortion. Not quite the skin lesions
reported in this episode.
Portions of this comment were extracted from
.
The skin lesions in walruses seem to be quite different from those in
ringed seals. Pictures of the walrus lesions can be seen at
and of the seal lesions at
.
The proximal cause of the disease might be a different one, but there
could be a common origin. A multi-factorial etiology is very likely.
The histopathology results will certainly shed some light.
The interactive HealthMap/ProMED-mail map for the state of Alaska is
available at- Mod.PMB]
A ProMED-mail post
ProMED-mail is a program of the
International Society for Infectious Diseases
Date: Fri 14 Oct 2011
From: Per Leines Lausund
We had problems with increased mortality in grey seals in the North
Sea countries in the late 1980s due to mass migration of Greenland
seal to new areas (reduced number of human and furred predators had
something to do with that; the increasing numbers of Greenland seals
obviously found the fish-rich coast of Norway enticing!) bringing with
them a morbilli (distemper) virus they were adapted to, whereas the
grey seals were not. Might be worth checking.
--
Lt Col Per Leines Lausund DVM MPH
Staff Veterinary Officer
Defence Command Norway
******
[2]
Date: Fri 14 Oct 2011
Source: Alaska Dispatch [edited]
Arctic ringed seals aren't the only marine mammals suffering an
unusual skin-lesion outbreak along Alaska's northern coasts.
Walruses that have hauled out by the thousands at Point Lay in
Northwest Alaska during recent summers -- an event driven by climate
change -- are also turning up with bizarre, festering sores.
Scientists estimate perhaps 600 are infected. Instead of wounds on
their faces and rear flippers, red abscesses pepper the animals'
entire bodies. But apparently only a few have perished.
Still, scientists from a number of agencies are working to answer
several questions, including whether the outbreaks in the 2 species
are related. They also worry the lesions could eventually lead to
deaths among Pacific walrus, an animal more than 100 000 strong that's
being considered for protections under the Endangered Species Act.
"Is it the bubonic plague or just a really bad case of acne?" asked
Tony Fischbach, a federal walrus biologist who first noticed the sores
on some walruses late this summer [2011].
As in the case of the ringed seals, biologists are working with the
North Slope Borough Department of Wildlife Management, pathology
experts, and others. They've sent skin and tissue samples to labs in
the US and Canada, but haven't pinpointed a cause. Everything from
viruses to toxins is being considered.
It doesn't appear that a huge numbers of walruses have the lesions. At
various times, an estimated 20 000 walruses have gathered on the
beach.
Leo Ferreira III, the former mayor in Point Lay, a village of 200
residents west of Barrow, said the sores seem to have contributed to
the deaths of some walruses.
"Most of them that are dying got the lesions on them," said Ferreira,
an Inupiat walrus hunter. He provided a little help last month
[September 2011] as scientists collected flesh samples from the
animals for testing. He's seen 2 dead ones with lesions.
"This is the 1st time this is happening," he said. "But this is also
happening with the ringed seals. We're very concerned. It's because we
think there is a disease spreading through them."
Sprawling walrus herds began hauling out on the beach near the village
in 2007, for the 1st time in memory, as temperatures warmed. Walrus
experts say it's because climate change has melted the sea ice the
animals normally use as a diving platform for bottom foraging.
Fischbach said biologists this summer witnessed new behavior among the
walruses at Point Lay. Previously, they did their diving for clams and
mud-dwelling worms near the beach. But that's not a rich feeding
ground.
So many walruses used the Point Lay beaches as their base camp. They
made long trips to feed at a site about 100 miles [160 km] off the
coast of Wainwright, a village north east of Point Lay. With the ice
gone, the walruses had no place to rest, Fischbach said. Some would
swim for 2 weeks before they returned to the beach, where they'd rest
a few days before leaving on another long trip.
Fischbach first spotted a sick walrus in late August [2011]. He was
there for an unrelated radio-tagging effort. On the edge of a huge
herd of animals, he crawled across the beach, trying to stay low and
out of sight.
One day he came across an abandoned calf that barely moved and
appeared to be dying. He first thought sea gulls had picked at it, but
he later saw other walruses with similar sores. "This little guy had
lesions all over him," Fischbach said. "That caused me concern because
it was near death."
Almost every walrus that swam onto the beach, especially single female
adults, approached the calf. Some tried nudging it toward the herd,
without results. "They seemed to be very interested in it, but they
moved on after a while," Fischbach said.
Fischbach saw other walruses with the lesions, but they appeared to be
healthy despite the open wounds across their body. The sores weren't
from jousting with tusks, something walruses are famous for when
gathered in herds.
"These lesions are very different from scars and tusk strikes," said
Fischbach. "Those heal up right away. This was different because
across the entire body you had large pock marks, like a really bad
case of acne."
He didn't know how many had been affected, because he was on the edge
of the herd. But he reported the sightings to the US Fish and Wildlife
Service.
Scientists who flew to the scene to assess the problem have estimated
that 6 per cent of the 10 000 to 20 000 animals that have hauled out
near Point Lay have the lesions, said Jason Herreman, a biologist with
the North Slope Borough. That would mean at least 600 had the
lesions.
Several groups are now working to determine the cause of the wounds,
said Teri Rowles, coordinator of the Marine Mammal Health and
Stranding Response Program under the National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration.
They're also working on the ringed seal problem. In recent weeks,
North Slope Borough biologists have found close to 50 dead ringed
seals that had lesions and patchy hair loss. Julie Speegle of NOAA
[National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration] said [that] lesions
have been found in the animals' respiratory system, liver, heart, and
brain as well.
The NOAA office in Alaska is also working with the borough's
department to prepare data to request a finding of an "unusual
mortality event" for the ringed seals, Rowles said.
Such a finding, allowed under the Marine Mammal Protection Act, could
free up federal funds and additional experts to determine what's
hurting the seals. Once a request is submitted, an international panel
of experts will determine if the ringed seals qualify for the
finding.
The outbreak among ringed seals is reportedly occurring in Chukotka,
Russia, and in northern Canada, and officials said they are working
with biologists to determine if there's a link with seals in those
countries. Harp seals in Greenland had similar problems earlier this
year [2011].
"We don't know what's going on, but we're looking at infectious
agents," Rowles said. "Is it bacterial, viral, fungal? And we're
looking at biotoxins and other chemical contaminants, as well as
overall metabolism."
Is it possible the animals more prone to illness because they're now
forced to swim long distances that leave them fatigued with weak
immune systems?
"That's one of the concerns," said Rosa Meehan, chief of the Marine
Mammals Management division in the US Fish and Wildlife Service. "As
their environment changes they may become more susceptible to things
like disease."
Back in Point Lay, many of the walruses have left their beach haul-out
and moved on for the winter, some likely to beach haul-outs in Russia,
she said. Ferreira said that a few have stuck around near the village.
If they're still there by the time the lagoon outside the village
freezes, he said he'll head across the ice and kill one for food. But
he'll avoid the sick animals. "I'd rather not," he said. "This is the
1st time I've seen this kind of thing."
[byline: Alex DeMarban]
--
communicated by:
ProMED-mail from HealthMap alerts
[Many thanks to Dr Per Lausund for his comments. We are awaiting more
information on this die-off. - Mod.MPP
Mass seal mortality associated with phocine distemper virus (PDV)
infection has been documented several times along the European and
North American coasts. The virus was first documented in 1988, when
harbor seals (_Phoca vitulina_) and gray seals (_Halichoerus grypus_)
died in large numbers off the coast of northern Europe (the episode
referred to above by Dr Per Lausund). A more recent episode in Europe
occurred in 2002, with an estimated 30 000 harbor and gray seal
deaths.
Millions of seals of various species inhabit the waters surrounding
North America; populations of most species are believed to be stable
or increasing, and no epidemics on the scale of those reported in
Europe have been reported. PDV disease in the United States was first
reported in harbor seals on the east coast during the winter of
1991-92, and serologic testing of gray and harbor seals suggested that
a PDV-like strain or strains were circulating enzootically in the
region. The clinical signs associated with PDV infection are tremors,
spasms, respiratory distress, and abortion. Not quite the skin lesions
reported in this episode.
Portions of this comment were extracted from
The skin lesions in walruses seem to be quite different from those in
ringed seals. Pictures of the walrus lesions can be seen at
and of the seal lesions at
The proximal cause of the disease might be a different one, but there
could be a common origin. A multi-factorial etiology is very likely.
The histopathology results will certainly shed some light.
The interactive HealthMap/ProMED-mail map for the state of Alaska is
available at
Wednesday, September 28, 2011
Special Home Needed for a Special Dog
Although almost 2 years old now, "Babykins" is still full of energy and still has the playfulness of a pup. She loves to chase a ball and to play tug-of-war with an old sock. She is highly intelligent, good in the house when left alone, and loves everyone she meets but yet is still a good watchdog.
We think that "Babykins" will make a great companion if just the right home can be found. Rescue is closing due to ill health of owner and "Baby" will have to be euthanized if just the right home isnt found soon. Call Chris (518) 753-7791 if interested.
Wednesday, September 21, 2011
INFLUENZA, CANINE - USA: (TEXAS)
********************************
A ProMED-mail post
ProMED-mail is a program of the
International Society for Infectious Diseases
Date: 17 Sep 2011
Source: My San Antonio.com [edited]
20 confirmed cases of canine influenza and 70 suspected cases have
been recorded in San Antonio dogs within the past 30 days, according
to a local veterinarian.
The disease, also known as dog flu, has also been reported in Austin
and Dallas, said Dr. Michele Wright, who helped identify the virus at
a local clinic.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Texas is
one of 38 states where dogs have been exposed to the H3N8 virus.
The 1st San Antonio case originated with 2 dogs that stopped at dog
day care centers and parks, both community sites where dogs could have
contracted the disease, Wright said.
Signs include a fever, runny nose and coughing, but some dogs infected
with the virus do not show symptoms. The virus is not transmitted to
humans, cats or other species. Wright said dogs shed, or transmit, the
virus through secretions that expose it to the environment.
"What's scary for me as a veterinarian is they can act and look
healthy and still be shedding the virus," Wright said.
Two tests can confirm the virus. The vaccine is available at
veterinarian offices.
According to the CDC, the virus was 1st detected in 2004 in
greyhounds. Scientists believe it jumped species from horses to dogs
and adapted to cause sickness and spread among dogs.
Wright said because many local dogs haven't been vaccinated, close to
100 percent would get the virus if exposed. 20 percent would transmit
it but not appear sick. 72 percent would show mild signs of coughing
that could linger for 2 to 3 weeks, and 8 percent could develop
pneumonia that could be life threatening.
Animal Care Services director Gary Hendel said ACS has not confirmed
any cases of canine influenza in the shelter. "It's a situation that
bears watching," Hendel said. "Should that situation change, we will
work with our local veterinary community to identify solutions to
prevent widespread outbreak."
Wright suggested that pet owners vaccinate their dogs; limit visits to
communal areas to prevent exposure, and keep dogs away from
contaminated areas for a month after immunization, to build up
immunity. "I think if we can get people vaccinating, we'll be able to
contain the virus," Wright said. "The hard thing is getting people to
vaccinate in areas that haven't seen it yet."
Dog flu is a contagious respiratory disease in dogs caused by a
specific Type A influenza virus known as canine influenza virus. It is
not a human influenza virus, and people cannot get it.
The virus can be spread to other dogs by direct contact with
respiratory secretions from infected dogs, by contact with
contaminated objects, and by people moving between infected and
uninfected dogs. Nearly all dogs are susceptible to infection, but
most will have a mild form of the disease.
Clinical signs are cough, runny nose and fever; a small proportion of
dogs can develop severe disease, characterized by the onset of
pneumonia. Testing to confirm flu virus infection is done at
veterinary centers. An approved vaccine is available.
[Byline: Vincent T. Davis]
--
Communicated by:
ProMED-mail from HealthMap alerts
[Canine influenza is a type A orthomyxovirus. It mimics "kennel cough"
or _Bordetella brochiseptica_/parainfluenza virus complex, which
sounds like a hacking cough that does not seem to stop. The cough with
canine influenza can be either moist or dry, and about 20 percent of
infected dogs may show little or no clinical signs but still be
shedding virus. Canine influenza is contagious by aerosolized droplets
and contaminated fomites (inanimate objects) that the dog can contact.
People can transmit the disease to their pets.
Unfortunately, treatment is non-specific but generally supportive. It
is important to get treatment early to reduce the death rate.
For a brief fact sheet on canine influenza, see the Washington State
University College of Veterinary Medicine, Washington Animal Disease
Diagnostic Laboratory (WADDL) website at
. There is
also an information sheet available on the University of Florida
College of Veterinary Medicine website at
.
- Mod.TG]
[see also:
2009
----
Influenza, canine - USA (03): (VA) 20091024.3676
Influenza, canine - USA (02): H3N8 20090820.2945
Influenza, canine - USA: (NJ) 20090704.2405
2007
----
Influenza, canine - USA (PA): corr. 20070802.2495
Influenza, canine - USA (PA) 20070801.2482
Influenza, canine - USA (Multistate) 20070208.0502
2006
----
Influenza, canine - USA (FL) 20060620.1703
Influenza, canine - USA (WY) 20060503.1279
Influenza, canine - USA (multistate) 20060325.0921
2005
----
Influenza, canine - USA (multistate)(03) 20051002.2883
Influenza, canine - USA (multistate)(02) 20050925.2830
Influenza, canine - USA (multistate) 20050923.2811
2004
----
Equine influenza, canines - USA (FL) 20040801.2099]
.................................................sb/tg/msp/dk
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A ProMED-mail post
ProMED-mail is a program of the
International Society for Infectious Diseases
Date: 17 Sep 2011
Source: My San Antonio.com [edited]
20 confirmed cases of canine influenza and 70 suspected cases have
been recorded in San Antonio dogs within the past 30 days, according
to a local veterinarian.
The disease, also known as dog flu, has also been reported in Austin
and Dallas, said Dr. Michele Wright, who helped identify the virus at
a local clinic.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Texas is
one of 38 states where dogs have been exposed to the H3N8 virus.
The 1st San Antonio case originated with 2 dogs that stopped at dog
day care centers and parks, both community sites where dogs could have
contracted the disease, Wright said.
Signs include a fever, runny nose and coughing, but some dogs infected
with the virus do not show symptoms. The virus is not transmitted to
humans, cats or other species. Wright said dogs shed, or transmit, the
virus through secretions that expose it to the environment.
"What's scary for me as a veterinarian is they can act and look
healthy and still be shedding the virus," Wright said.
Two tests can confirm the virus. The vaccine is available at
veterinarian offices.
According to the CDC, the virus was 1st detected in 2004 in
greyhounds. Scientists believe it jumped species from horses to dogs
and adapted to cause sickness and spread among dogs.
Wright said because many local dogs haven't been vaccinated, close to
100 percent would get the virus if exposed. 20 percent would transmit
it but not appear sick. 72 percent would show mild signs of coughing
that could linger for 2 to 3 weeks, and 8 percent could develop
pneumonia that could be life threatening.
Animal Care Services director Gary Hendel said ACS has not confirmed
any cases of canine influenza in the shelter. "It's a situation that
bears watching," Hendel said. "Should that situation change, we will
work with our local veterinary community to identify solutions to
prevent widespread outbreak."
Wright suggested that pet owners vaccinate their dogs; limit visits to
communal areas to prevent exposure, and keep dogs away from
contaminated areas for a month after immunization, to build up
immunity. "I think if we can get people vaccinating, we'll be able to
contain the virus," Wright said. "The hard thing is getting people to
vaccinate in areas that haven't seen it yet."
Dog flu is a contagious respiratory disease in dogs caused by a
specific Type A influenza virus known as canine influenza virus. It is
not a human influenza virus, and people cannot get it.
The virus can be spread to other dogs by direct contact with
respiratory secretions from infected dogs, by contact with
contaminated objects, and by people moving between infected and
uninfected dogs. Nearly all dogs are susceptible to infection, but
most will have a mild form of the disease.
Clinical signs are cough, runny nose and fever; a small proportion of
dogs can develop severe disease, characterized by the onset of
pneumonia. Testing to confirm flu virus infection is done at
veterinary centers. An approved vaccine is available.
[Byline: Vincent T. Davis
--
Communicated by:
ProMED-mail from HealthMap alerts
[Canine influenza is a type A orthomyxovirus. It mimics "kennel cough"
or _Bordetella brochiseptica_/parainfluenza virus complex, which
sounds like a hacking cough that does not seem to stop. The cough with
canine influenza can be either moist or dry, and about 20 percent of
infected dogs may show little or no clinical signs but still be
shedding virus. Canine influenza is contagious by aerosolized droplets
and contaminated fomites (inanimate objects) that the dog can contact.
People can transmit the disease to their pets.
Unfortunately, treatment is non-specific but generally supportive. It
is important to get treatment early to reduce the death rate.
For a brief fact sheet on canine influenza, see the Washington State
University College of Veterinary Medicine, Washington Animal Disease
Diagnostic Laboratory (WADDL) website at
also an information sheet available on the University of Florida
College of Veterinary Medicine website at
- Mod.TG]
[see also:
2009
----
Influenza, canine - USA (03): (VA) 20091024.3676
Influenza, canine - USA (02): H3N8 20090820.2945
Influenza, canine - USA: (NJ) 20090704.2405
2007
----
Influenza, canine - USA (PA): corr. 20070802.2495
Influenza, canine - USA (PA) 20070801.2482
Influenza, canine - USA (Multistate) 20070208.0502
2006
----
Influenza, canine - USA (FL) 20060620.1703
Influenza, canine - USA (WY) 20060503.1279
Influenza, canine - USA (multistate) 20060325.0921
2005
----
Influenza, canine - USA (multistate)(03) 20051002.2883
Influenza, canine - USA (multistate)(02) 20050925.2830
Influenza, canine - USA (multistate) 20050923.2811
2004
----
Equine influenza, canines - USA (FL) 20040801.2099]
.................................................sb/tg/msp/dk
*##########################################################*
************************************************************
ProMED-mail makes every effort to verify the reports that
are posted, but the accuracy and completeness of the
information, and of any statements or opinions based
thereon, are not guaranteed. The reader assumes all risks in
using information posted or archived by ProMED-mail. ISID
and its associated service providers shall not be held
responsible for errors or omissions or held liable for any
damages incurred as a result of use or reliance upon posted
or archived material.
************************************************************
Donate to ProMED-mail. Details available at:
************************************************************
Visit ProMED-mail's web site at
Send all items for posting to: promed@promedmail.org (NOT to
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############################################################
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Monday, July 25, 2011
Sunday, July 3, 2011
EXXON MOBILE ruptured pipeline sends oil coursing down Yellowstone River; ALSO: Montana & Yellowstone Earthquakes
Subject: EXXON MOBILE ruptured pipeline sends oil coursing down Yellowstone River; ALSO: Montana & Yellowstone Earthquakes
Statement by ExxonMobil Pipeline Company Regarding Crude Oil Release into Yellowstone River in Montana -- The release originated from a 12" crude pipeline operated by EMPCo that runs from Silver Tip, MT to Billings, MT. The pipeline has been shutdown and the segment where the release occurred has been isolated. All appropriate state and federal authorities have been alerted. http://www.marketwatch.com/story/statement-by-exxonmobil-pipeline-company-regarding-crude-oil-release-into-yellowstone-river-in-montana-2011-07-02
Ruptured pipeline sends oil coursing down the Yellowstone River http://billingsgazette.com/news/local/article_6a8f2313-4279-542c-95c7-92f04639003f.html
Story/ article here with video; http://www.ktvq.com/news/laurel-residents-evacuate-after-oil-pipeline-break
Here is another link with pictures of Yellowstone oil spill;
http://www.ktvq.com/galleries/yellowstone-river-oil-spill/
Exxon oil spill in Mont. river prompts evacuations http://www.topix.com/business/energy/2011/07/exxon-oil-spill-in-mont-river-prompts-evacuations
An ExxonMobil pipeline that runs under the Yellowstone River near Billings in south-central Montana ruptured and dumped an unknown amount of oil into the waterway, prompting temporary evacuations along the river Saturday morning. Full story: WXIX-TV Cincinnati
http://www.fox19.com/story/15017587/exxon-oil-spill-in-mont-river-prompts-evacuations
An ExxonMobil pipeline that runs under the Yellowstone River near Billings in south-central Montana ruptured and dumped an unknown amount of oil into the waterway, prompting temporary evacuations along the river Saturday morning.___________________________________________not sure if related -- Map;
http://earthquake.usgs.gov/earthquakes/recenteqsus/Maps/US10/42.52.-115.-105.php
MAG UTC DATE-TIME
y/m/d h:m:s LAT
deg LON
deg DEPTH
km LOCATION
MAP3.5 2011/07/01 22:03:0648.105-108.3115.419 km ( 11 mi) ENE of Lodge Pole, MT
MAP1.7 2011/07/01 02:11:1847.459-112.73727.026 km ( 16 mi) W of Augusta, MT
MAP1.0 2011/06/30 14:08:0444.815-111.8024.651 km ( 31 mi) NW of Island Park, ID
MAP1.2 2011/06/30 09:49:3544.612-110.3942.154 km ( 33 mi) SSE of Gardiner, MT
MAP1.1 2011/06/30 07:00:1445.180-111.43417.315 km ( 9 mi) SW of Big Sky, MT
MAP2.2 2011/06/29 11:44:0144.015-114.46613.428 km ( 17 mi) S of Clayton, ID
MAP1.0 2011/06/29 04:59:4744.653-110.4291.648 km ( 30 mi) SSE of Gardiner, MT
MAP1.7 2011/06/28 23:01:3346.038-111.4159.315 km ( 9 mi) S of Toston, MT
MAP1.0 2011/06/28 18:09:0546.093-111.8999.423 km ( 15 mi) SE of Boulder, MT
MAP1.4 2011/06/27 18:19:1946.341-111.3705.612 km ( 7 mi) E of Townsend, MT
MAP1.4 2011/06/26 20:32:0344.508-110.1881.460 km ( 37 mi) SSW of Cooke City-Silver Gate, MT
MAP1.1 2011/06/26 17:59:2847.036-112.1953.437 km ( 23 mi) NNW of Helena Valley Northwest, MT
MAP1.0 2011/06/26 13:14:1244.564-110.7512.430 km ( 19 mi) ESE of West Yellowstone, MT
MAP1.0 2011/06/26 11:43:1544.801-111.9685.551 km ( 32 mi) NNE of Spencer, ID
MAP1.9 2011/06/26 11:43:1544.789-111.97112.750 km ( 31 mi) NNE of Spencer, ID
MAP1.5 2011/06/26 10:02:1344.364-110.8195.340 km ( 25 mi) SE of West Yellowstone, MT
MAP1.0 2011/06/26 09:11:1444.616-112.10114.229 km ( 18 mi) NNE of Spencer, ID
MAP1.4 2011/06/26 05:32:0947.709-113.80912.720 km ( 13 mi) ENE of Turtle Lake, MT
Statement by ExxonMobil Pipeline Company Regarding Crude Oil Release into Yellowstone River in Montana -- The release originated from a 12" crude pipeline operated by EMPCo that runs from Silver Tip, MT to Billings, MT. The pipeline has been shutdown and the segment where the release occurred has been isolated. All appropriate state and federal authorities have been alerted. http://www.marketwatch.com/story/statement-by-exxonmobil-pipeline-company-regarding-crude-oil-release-into-yellowstone-river-in-montana-2011-07-02
Ruptured pipeline sends oil coursing down the Yellowstone River http://billingsgazette.com/news/local/article_6a8f2313-4279-542c-95c7-92f04639003f.html
Story/ article here with video; http://www.ktvq.com/news/laurel-residents-evacuate-after-oil-pipeline-break
Here is another link with pictures of Yellowstone oil spill;
http://www.ktvq.com/galleries/yellowstone-river-oil-spill/
Exxon oil spill in Mont. river prompts evacuations http://www.topix.com/business/energy/2011/07/exxon-oil-spill-in-mont-river-prompts-evacuations
An ExxonMobil pipeline that runs under the Yellowstone River near Billings in south-central Montana ruptured and dumped an unknown amount of oil into the waterway, prompting temporary evacuations along the river Saturday morning. Full story: WXIX-TV Cincinnati
http://www.fox19.com/story/15017587/exxon-oil-spill-in-mont-river-prompts-evacuations
An ExxonMobil pipeline that runs under the Yellowstone River near Billings in south-central Montana ruptured and dumped an unknown amount of oil into the waterway, prompting temporary evacuations along the river Saturday morning.___________________________________________not sure if related -- Map;
http://earthquake.usgs.gov/earthquakes/recenteqsus/Maps/US10/42.52.-115.-105.php
MAG UTC DATE-TIME
y/m/d h:m:s LAT
deg LON
deg DEPTH
km LOCATION
MAP3.5 2011/07/01 22:03:0648.105-108.3115.419 km ( 11 mi) ENE of Lodge Pole, MT
MAP1.7 2011/07/01 02:11:1847.459-112.73727.026 km ( 16 mi) W of Augusta, MT
MAP1.0 2011/06/30 14:08:0444.815-111.8024.651 km ( 31 mi) NW of Island Park, ID
MAP1.2 2011/06/30 09:49:3544.612-110.3942.154 km ( 33 mi) SSE of Gardiner, MT
MAP1.1 2011/06/30 07:00:1445.180-111.43417.315 km ( 9 mi) SW of Big Sky, MT
MAP2.2 2011/06/29 11:44:0144.015-114.46613.428 km ( 17 mi) S of Clayton, ID
MAP1.0 2011/06/29 04:59:4744.653-110.4291.648 km ( 30 mi) SSE of Gardiner, MT
MAP1.7 2011/06/28 23:01:3346.038-111.4159.315 km ( 9 mi) S of Toston, MT
MAP1.0 2011/06/28 18:09:0546.093-111.8999.423 km ( 15 mi) SE of Boulder, MT
MAP1.4 2011/06/27 18:19:1946.341-111.3705.612 km ( 7 mi) E of Townsend, MT
MAP1.4 2011/06/26 20:32:0344.508-110.1881.460 km ( 37 mi) SSW of Cooke City-Silver Gate, MT
MAP1.1 2011/06/26 17:59:2847.036-112.1953.437 km ( 23 mi) NNW of Helena Valley Northwest, MT
MAP1.0 2011/06/26 13:14:1244.564-110.7512.430 km ( 19 mi) ESE of West Yellowstone, MT
MAP1.0 2011/06/26 11:43:1544.801-111.9685.551 km ( 32 mi) NNE of Spencer, ID
MAP1.9 2011/06/26 11:43:1544.789-111.97112.750 km ( 31 mi) NNE of Spencer, ID
MAP1.5 2011/06/26 10:02:1344.364-110.8195.340 km ( 25 mi) SE of West Yellowstone, MT
MAP1.0 2011/06/26 09:11:1444.616-112.10114.229 km ( 18 mi) NNE of Spencer, ID
MAP1.4 2011/06/26 05:32:0947.709-113.80912.720 km ( 13 mi) ENE of Turtle Lake, MT
Thursday, June 30, 2011
Tazmanian Devil Tumor-Disease UpdATE
DEVIL FACIAL TUMOR, TASMANIAN DEVIL - AUSTRALIA: (TASMANIA) UPDATE
******************************************************************
A ProMED-mail post
ProMED-mail is a program of the
International Society for Infectious Diseases
Date: Mon 27 Jun 2011
Source: New Scientist [edited]
Despite its ferocious nature, the Tasmanian devil is a creature faced
with extinction, the victim of a gruesome facial tumor disease. Now
the 1st genetic sequencing of these carnivorous marsupials has
revealed that we had a hand in their decline: centuries of human
interference left the devils stripped of genetic diversity and
vulnerable to disease.
This meant that when the parasitic face cancer dubbed "devil facial
tumor disease" appeared in 1996 it rapidly spread through the entire
population. As a result, the Tasmanian devil, or _Sarcophilus
harrisii_, population has fallen over 60 per cent since 1996.
The disease is transmitted by physical contact, mostly biting during
sex. It is almost always fatal and has spread across most of
Tasmania.
Due to the species' sharp decline, the International Union for the
Conservation of Nature (IUCN) has classed it as endangered. Some
studies estimate the marsupials could be wiped out within decades.
Marsupial sequencing
--------------------
To find out why they cannot fight the cancer, Stephan Schuster of
Pennsylvania State University in University Park and colleagues
sequenced the genomes of 2 Tasmanian devils, the 1st Australian
marsupials to be sequenced.
Schuster chose animals from opposite ends of the island, which should
have been as genetically distinct as devils get. But he found they
were pretty similar: their genomes only differed at 915 000 sites. A
similar comparison showed that 2 humans from China and Japan differ at
3 257 000 sites, says Schuster.
Genetic analysis of a further 175 wild animals and 7 museum specimens
showed that devils have had a low genetic diversity for over 100
years.
Humans had a heavy hand in this. First the devils were wiped out in
mainland Australia by dingoes brought in by settlers, then those that
remained in Tasmania were hunted as pests, causing several population
crashes. As their genetic diversity was slashed, the devils were left
vulnerable to disease.
This is clearly at the root of their problems, says Katherine Belov
of the University of Sydney, Australia. "Devils are essentially
immunological clones, so tumors pass between them without triggering
an immune response," she says.
The Australian and Tasmanian governments have set up a conservation
programme, capturing disease-free devils to establish an "insurance
population". Housed at sites like the Devil Ark in Somersby, New South
Wales, these devils could re-populate Tasmania if the wild population
is wiped out.
Missing diversity
-----------------
But Schuster says the captive population is missing some of the wild
population's diversity, such as it is. He found 7 subtly distinct
populations on the island and says individuals from each must be
included. But as nobody has genotyped the captive population we don't
know what is missing. Based on partial information on where the
individuals were collected, Schuster suspects the captive genotype is
not as diverse as it could be.
Having a large genetic diversity is essential for any captive
breeding programme, agrees Craig Hilton-Taylor of the IUCN, based in
Cambridge, UK. Schuster says conservationists need to look at genetic
diversity when they assess a species' wellbeing. He points out that
before the facial tumour disease appeared, the IUCN considered devils
to be of "least concern" because their population and habitat were
reasonably large. In fact they were genetic sitting ducks, says
Schuster.
The IUCN doesn't require its scientists to do genetic testing on
species they are assessing, although the information is used if they
do. Hilton-Taylor agrees the information can be invaluable, but says
systematic testing would be difficult and expensive.
Journal reference: Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences,
DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1102838108 [abstract available at
].
[Byline: Michael Marshall]
--
Communicated by:
ProMED-mail
[This article does not mention if there were any sequences of
Tasmanian devils in some other zoo in the world that might lend
genetic diversity or be a tumor free source of genetic material. But I
cannot remember if the Tasmanian devil has ever been sent to other
zoos - Mod.TG]
[Photos of Tasmanian devils can be seen at
.
Facial tumor at:
Tasmania can be located on the HealthMap/ProMED-mail interactive map
of Australia at. - Sr.Tech.Ed.MJ]
[see also:
2010
----
Devil facial tumor disease - Australia (TS) 20100102.0019
2008
----
Devil facial tumor disease - Australia: (TAS) 20080718.2174
2007
----
Devil facial tumor disease - Australia (TAS) (02) 20071004.3289
Devil facial tumor disease - Australia (TAS) 20070218.0616
2006
----
Devil facial tumor disease - Australia (TAS) (02) 20061024.3051
Devil facial tumor disease - Australia (TAS) 20060201.0328]
.................................................sb/tg/mj/jw
*##########################################################*
************************************************************
ProMED-mail makes every effort to verify the reports that
are posted, but the accuracy and completeness of the
information, and of any statements or opinions based
thereon, are not guaranteed. The reader assumes all risks in
using information posted or archived by ProMED-mail. ISID
and its associated service providers shall not be held
responsible for errors or omissions or held liable for any
damages incurred as a result of use or reliance upon posted
or archived material.
************************************************************
Donate to ProMED-mail. Details available at:
************************************************************
Visit ProMED-mail's web site at.
Send all items for posting to: promed@promedmail.org (NOT to
an individual moderator). If you do not give your full name
name and affiliation, it may not be posted. You may unsub-
scribe at.
For assistance from a human being, send mail to:
.
############################################################
############################################################
******************************************************************
A ProMED-mail post
ProMED-mail is a program of the
International Society for Infectious Diseases
Date: Mon 27 Jun 2011
Source: New Scientist [edited]
Despite its ferocious nature, the Tasmanian devil is a creature faced
with extinction, the victim of a gruesome facial tumor disease. Now
the 1st genetic sequencing of these carnivorous marsupials has
revealed that we had a hand in their decline: centuries of human
interference left the devils stripped of genetic diversity and
vulnerable to disease.
This meant that when the parasitic face cancer dubbed "devil facial
tumor disease" appeared in 1996 it rapidly spread through the entire
population. As a result, the Tasmanian devil, or _Sarcophilus
harrisii_, population has fallen over 60 per cent since 1996.
The disease is transmitted by physical contact, mostly biting during
sex. It is almost always fatal and has spread across most of
Tasmania.
Due to the species' sharp decline, the International Union for the
Conservation of Nature (IUCN) has classed it as endangered. Some
studies estimate the marsupials could be wiped out within decades.
Marsupial sequencing
--------------------
To find out why they cannot fight the cancer, Stephan Schuster of
Pennsylvania State University in University Park and colleagues
sequenced the genomes of 2 Tasmanian devils, the 1st Australian
marsupials to be sequenced.
Schuster chose animals from opposite ends of the island, which should
have been as genetically distinct as devils get. But he found they
were pretty similar: their genomes only differed at 915 000 sites. A
similar comparison showed that 2 humans from China and Japan differ at
3 257 000 sites, says Schuster.
Genetic analysis of a further 175 wild animals and 7 museum specimens
showed that devils have had a low genetic diversity for over 100
years.
Humans had a heavy hand in this. First the devils were wiped out in
mainland Australia by dingoes brought in by settlers, then those that
remained in Tasmania were hunted as pests, causing several population
crashes. As their genetic diversity was slashed, the devils were left
vulnerable to disease.
This is clearly at the root of their problems, says Katherine Belov
of the University of Sydney, Australia. "Devils are essentially
immunological clones, so tumors pass between them without triggering
an immune response," she says.
The Australian and Tasmanian governments have set up a conservation
programme, capturing disease-free devils to establish an "insurance
population". Housed at sites like the Devil Ark in Somersby, New South
Wales, these devils could re-populate Tasmania if the wild population
is wiped out.
Missing diversity
-----------------
But Schuster says the captive population is missing some of the wild
population's diversity, such as it is. He found 7 subtly distinct
populations on the island and says individuals from each must be
included. But as nobody has genotyped the captive population we don't
know what is missing. Based on partial information on where the
individuals were collected, Schuster suspects the captive genotype is
not as diverse as it could be.
Having a large genetic diversity is essential for any captive
breeding programme, agrees Craig Hilton-Taylor of the IUCN, based in
Cambridge, UK. Schuster says conservationists need to look at genetic
diversity when they assess a species' wellbeing. He points out that
before the facial tumour disease appeared, the IUCN considered devils
to be of "least concern" because their population and habitat were
reasonably large. In fact they were genetic sitting ducks, says
Schuster.
The IUCN doesn't require its scientists to do genetic testing on
species they are assessing, although the information is used if they
do. Hilton-Taylor agrees the information can be invaluable, but says
systematic testing would be difficult and expensive.
Journal reference: Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences,
DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1102838108 [abstract available at
[Byline: Michael Marshall]
--
Communicated by:
ProMED-mail
[This article does not mention if there were any sequences of
Tasmanian devils in some other zoo in the world that might lend
genetic diversity or be a tumor free source of genetic material. But I
cannot remember if the Tasmanian devil has ever been sent to other
zoos - Mod.TG]
[Photos of Tasmanian devils can be seen at
Facial tumor at:
Tasmania can be located on the HealthMap/ProMED-mail interactive map
of Australia at
[see also:
2010
----
Devil facial tumor disease - Australia (TS) 20100102.0019
2008
----
Devil facial tumor disease - Australia: (TAS) 20080718.2174
2007
----
Devil facial tumor disease - Australia (TAS) (02) 20071004.3289
Devil facial tumor disease - Australia (TAS) 20070218.0616
2006
----
Devil facial tumor disease - Australia (TAS) (02) 20061024.3051
Devil facial tumor disease - Australia (TAS) 20060201.0328]
.................................................sb/tg/mj/jw
*##########################################################*
************************************************************
ProMED-mail makes every effort to verify the reports that
are posted, but the accuracy and completeness of the
information, and of any statements or opinions based
thereon, are not guaranteed. The reader assumes all risks in
using information posted or archived by ProMED-mail. ISID
and its associated service providers shall not be held
responsible for errors or omissions or held liable for any
damages incurred as a result of use or reliance upon posted
or archived material.
************************************************************
Donate to ProMED-mail. Details available at:
************************************************************
Visit ProMED-mail's web site at
Send all items for posting to: promed@promedmail.org (NOT to
an individual moderator). If you do not give your full name
name and affiliation, it may not be posted. You may unsub-
scribe at
For assistance from a human being, send mail to:
############################################################
############################################################
Wednesday, May 4, 2011
Friday, April 29, 2011
DESPERATE for RESCUE transport help in Knoxville,Tn.
From: quincey simmons [mailto: qzsimmons@hotmail.com ]
Subject: DESPERATE for transport help in Knoxville
Hi All
I have really had a TERRIBLE time filling transports recently. The problem is always the same: no one to drive or overnight through Knoxville. I am on the verge of cancelling yet another NC-IN transport. I am also thinking that I am going to have to quit pulling from NC. I hate to do this as I have long pulled from NC but the cancelled transports mean that I end up spending a FORTUNE in boarding fees and I just can't afford to do that anyone.
Here is my current run. If ANYONE knows ANYONE in and around the unfilled legs (Charlotte NC, Knoxville TN, Indy, IN) please let them know about this run.
Please please please!!!!!
********************************************************************************************
PLEASE CROSSPOST!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
C'mon KNOXVILLE!!!! We need 2 legs and and overnight in your area!!!!
I have not has a lot of luck filling transports recently. As you all know, this makes it very hard to do rescue work. It is such a shame when you have a great rescue offer and no way to get the very deserving dog there. Please help me break my streak of unfilled transports!!! This one is for 2 lovely labbies. These sweet dogs were both pulled from the shelter only moments before their time was up. If we can get them to Adopt A Lab then they will be in forever homes before they know it! I would love to see these 2 running after balls in their own backyards and enjoying the summer swimming and sunning in homes of their own. Please help make a doggie dream come true!!
Sending Rescuer (Coal):
Volunteer contact: Mary Thomas rescueworker11@yahoo.com
Sending rescuer (Laurie):
Volunteer contact: Dorsey Patrick dcpphoto@aol.com
Receiving Rescue
Adopt A Lab
http://www.adoptalab.org/
Rescue contact: Quincey Simmons or Patty Strayer qzsimmons@hotmail.com
TRANSPORT COORDINATOR: Quincey Simmons
PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE drive a leg!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Passenger# 1
NAME: Laurie
BREED: 1-2 yr old yellowlab
SEX: female
SIZE/WEIGHT: Approx. 55lbs
SPAY/NEUTERED: to be done in rescue
SHOT UTD: Yes
RABIES VACCINE & TAG: yes
OK WITH DOGS: Yes
OK WITH KIDS: Yes
HOUSE TRAINED: Yes
CRATE TRAINED: Yes
SPECIAL NEEDS: None
DOES THE DOG RIDE WELL IN A CAR: Yes
ITEMS PROVIDED: collar, vet records
ITEMS NEEDED: None
Passenger# 2
NAME: Coal
BREED: 1-2 yr old black lab
SEX: male
SIZE/WEIGHT: Approx. 55lbs
SPAY/NEUTERED: to be done in rescue
SHOT UTD: Yes
RABIES VACCINE & TAG: yes
OK WITH DOGS: Yes
OK WITH KIDS: Yes
HOUSE TRAINED: Yes
CRATE TRAINED: Yes
SPECIAL NEEDS: None
DOES THE DOG RIDE WELL IN A CAR: Yes
ITEMS PROVIDED: collar, vet records
ITEMS NEEDED: None
The Run:
Saturday 4/30
Leg 1
Fairmont NC to Laurinsburg NC
40 miles 1hr
8:00-9:00AM.................Filled! Thanks Thanks Lou!!
Leg 2
Laurinsburg NC to Wadesboro NC
50 miles 1 hr
9:15-10:15AM......................NEEDED! Filled!! Thanks Chris!
Leg 3
Wadesboro NC to Charlotte NC
52 miles 1hr 15 mins
10:30-11:45......................NEEDED!!
Leg 4
Charlotte NC to Spartanburg SC
70 miles 1 hr
12:00 NOON-1:00PM................Filled!! Thanks Sharon!!
Leg 5
Spartanburg SC-Asheville NC
60 miles 1hr
1:15PM-2:15PM.................Filled!! Thanks Sharon!!
Leg 6
Ashveille NC-Newport TN
70 miles 1hr 15 mins
2:30-3:45PM.........Filled! Thanks Herb!!!
Leg 7
Newport TN-Knoxville TN
55 miles 1 hour
4:00-5:00PM.....................NEEDED!!
OVERNIGHT in KNOXVILLE...........................NEEDED!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Sunday May 1
Leg 8
Knoxville to Williamsburg KY
70 miles 1 hour 10 mins
8:00AM-9:10AM.....................NEEDED!!
Leg 9
Williamsburg KY to Richmond KY
75 miles 1 hour 20 mins
9:25AM-10:45 AM.......FIlled! Thanks Jamie!
Leg 10
Richmond KY to Frankfort KY
55 miles 1 hour
11:00AM-NOON....................Filled!! Thanks Kay!!
Leg 11
Frankfort KY to Louisville KY
55 miles 1 hour
12:15PM-1:15PM........Filled! Thanks Kay!!
Leg 12
Louisville KY to Seymour IN
55 miles 1 hour
1:30PM-2:30PM......Filled! Thanks Joanne!
Leg 13
Seymour IN to Indianapolis IN
60 miles 1hr
2:45PM-3:45PM.......Filled! Thanks Joanne!
Leg 14
Indy IN to Muncie IN
60 miles 1hr
4:00-5:00PM......................NEEDED!!
Rescue to pick up in Muncie
Subject: DESPERATE for transport help in Knoxville
Hi All
I have really had a TERRIBLE time filling transports recently. The problem is always the same: no one to drive or overnight through Knoxville. I am on the verge of cancelling yet another NC-IN transport. I am also thinking that I am going to have to quit pulling from NC. I hate to do this as I have long pulled from NC but the cancelled transports mean that I end up spending a FORTUNE in boarding fees and I just can't afford to do that anyone.
Here is my current run. If ANYONE knows ANYONE in and around the unfilled legs (Charlotte NC, Knoxville TN, Indy, IN) please let them know about this run.
Please please please!!!!!
********************************************************************************************
PLEASE CROSSPOST!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
C'mon KNOXVILLE!!!! We need 2 legs and and overnight in your area!!!!
I have not has a lot of luck filling transports recently. As you all know, this makes it very hard to do rescue work. It is such a shame when you have a great rescue offer and no way to get the very deserving dog there. Please help me break my streak of unfilled transports!!! This one is for 2 lovely labbies. These sweet dogs were both pulled from the shelter only moments before their time was up. If we can get them to Adopt A Lab then they will be in forever homes before they know it! I would love to see these 2 running after balls in their own backyards and enjoying the summer swimming and sunning in homes of their own. Please help make a doggie dream come true!!
Sending Rescuer (Coal):
Volunteer contact: Mary Thomas rescueworker11@yahoo.com
Sending rescuer (Laurie):
Volunteer contact: Dorsey Patrick dcpphoto@aol.com
Receiving Rescue
Adopt A Lab
http://www.adoptalab.org/
Rescue contact: Quincey Simmons or Patty Strayer qzsimmons@hotmail.com
TRANSPORT COORDINATOR: Quincey Simmons
PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE drive a leg!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Passenger# 1
NAME: Laurie
BREED: 1-2 yr old yellowlab
SEX: female
SIZE/WEIGHT: Approx. 55lbs
SPAY/NEUTERED: to be done in rescue
SHOT UTD: Yes
RABIES VACCINE & TAG: yes
OK WITH DOGS: Yes
OK WITH KIDS: Yes
HOUSE TRAINED: Yes
CRATE TRAINED: Yes
SPECIAL NEEDS: None
DOES THE DOG RIDE WELL IN A CAR: Yes
ITEMS PROVIDED: collar, vet records
ITEMS NEEDED: None
Passenger# 2
NAME: Coal
BREED: 1-2 yr old black lab
SEX: male
SIZE/WEIGHT: Approx. 55lbs
SPAY/NEUTERED: to be done in rescue
SHOT UTD: Yes
RABIES VACCINE & TAG: yes
OK WITH DOGS: Yes
OK WITH KIDS: Yes
HOUSE TRAINED: Yes
CRATE TRAINED: Yes
SPECIAL NEEDS: None
DOES THE DOG RIDE WELL IN A CAR: Yes
ITEMS PROVIDED: collar, vet records
ITEMS NEEDED: None
The Run:
Saturday 4/30
Leg 1
Fairmont NC to Laurinsburg NC
40 miles 1hr
8:00-9:00AM.................Filled! Thanks Thanks Lou!!
Leg 2
Laurinsburg NC to Wadesboro NC
50 miles 1 hr
9:15-10:15AM......................NEEDED! Filled!! Thanks Chris!
Leg 3
Wadesboro NC to Charlotte NC
52 miles 1hr 15 mins
10:30-11:45......................NEEDED!!
Leg 4
Charlotte NC to Spartanburg SC
70 miles 1 hr
12:00 NOON-1:00PM................Filled!! Thanks Sharon!!
Leg 5
Spartanburg SC-Asheville NC
60 miles 1hr
1:15PM-2:15PM.................Filled!! Thanks Sharon!!
Leg 6
Ashveille NC-Newport TN
70 miles 1hr 15 mins
2:30-3:45PM.........Filled! Thanks Herb!!!
Leg 7
Newport TN-Knoxville TN
55 miles 1 hour
4:00-5:00PM.....................NEEDED!!
OVERNIGHT in KNOXVILLE...........................NEEDED!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Sunday May 1
Leg 8
Knoxville to Williamsburg KY
70 miles 1 hour 10 mins
8:00AM-9:10AM.....................NEEDED!!
Leg 9
Williamsburg KY to Richmond KY
75 miles 1 hour 20 mins
9:25AM-10:45 AM.......FIlled! Thanks Jamie!
Leg 10
Richmond KY to Frankfort KY
55 miles 1 hour
11:00AM-NOON....................Filled!! Thanks Kay!!
Leg 11
Frankfort KY to Louisville KY
55 miles 1 hour
12:15PM-1:15PM........Filled! Thanks Kay!!
Leg 12
Louisville KY to Seymour IN
55 miles 1 hour
1:30PM-2:30PM......Filled! Thanks Joanne!
Leg 13
Seymour IN to Indianapolis IN
60 miles 1hr
2:45PM-3:45PM.......Filled! Thanks Joanne!
Leg 14
Indy IN to Muncie IN
60 miles 1hr
4:00-5:00PM......................NEEDED!!
Rescue to pick up in Muncie
Friday, April 22, 2011
Wednesday, April 20, 2011
Hidden View Farm - Animal Cruelty - Seward, NY
Subject: ABANDONED FARM - DYING ANIMALS IN YOUR TOWN!
Dear Mayor Borst, Supervisor Barbic, and DA Sacket,
I am writing to make you aware of an atrocious situation occurring in the town of Seward. As I write this, animals on an abandoned farm are suffering and dying.
A local woman has been trying to help them to no avail. It seems that no one will step up and help these dying animals even though this is in clear violation of the Agricultural and Marketing laws.
I do not currently have an address, but the name of the farm is HIDDEN VIEW FARM in Seward. The woman who is trying to help, Joyce Urban, may be reached at: Yodelingyogi@aol.com. Here is an excerpt from the e-mail I received desperately seeking help for the animals:
"The owners have only been told to "clean up the bodies within three days." There are still animals there, starving, pregnant, malnourished, likely unvetted and DYING! This includes pigs, cows, sheep, birds, horses, cats and dogs! PLEASE HELP! Before it's too late for the ones still alive"
I would appreciate a response and look forward to hearing that you have immediately intervened on behalf of these innocent animals in order to obtain the necessary veterinary and rescue help needed to assist those still living, and that you will be prosecuting the parties responsible for the abuse and neglect of these sentient beings.
Sincerely,
Teresa Vecere
Dear Mayor Borst, Supervisor Barbic, and DA Sacket,
I am writing to make you aware of an atrocious situation occurring in the town of Seward. As I write this, animals on an abandoned farm are suffering and dying.
A local woman has been trying to help them to no avail. It seems that no one will step up and help these dying animals even though this is in clear violation of the Agricultural and Marketing laws.
I do not currently have an address, but the name of the farm is HIDDEN VIEW FARM in Seward. The woman who is trying to help, Joyce Urban, may be reached at: Yodelingyogi@aol.com. Here is an excerpt from the e-mail I received desperately seeking help for the animals:
"The owners have only been told to "clean up the bodies within three days." There are still animals there, starving, pregnant, malnourished, likely unvetted and DYING! This includes pigs, cows, sheep, birds, horses, cats and dogs! PLEASE HELP! Before it's too late for the ones still alive"
I would appreciate a response and look forward to hearing that you have immediately intervened on behalf of these innocent animals in order to obtain the necessary veterinary and rescue help needed to assist those still living, and that you will be prosecuting the parties responsible for the abuse and neglect of these sentient beings.
Sincerely,
Teresa Vecere
Saturday, April 16, 2011
More States Create Anti-Whistleblower Bills
Here we go again! If you thought the recent legislation to criminalize those who film or photograph farm activity in states like Florida and Iowa is coincidental, it’s not. Similar bills are in process in Idaho and Minnesota, and other states are considering legislative action as well. Giant corporations like Monsanto are throwing money behind the Iowa version and possibly more in order further secure their “crop operations.” Minnesota is at least the fourth state to introduce anti-whistleblower legislation. They got it from Iowa who got it from Florida. In the Minnesota bill, even just possessing undercover documentation of farm operations would be illegal. How they can enforce a law like that without invading people’s privacy, I do not know. These bills threaten to punish anyone who dares to highlight questionable behavior towards animals, seed and produce, sanitation and employees. “We think it would be an important deterrent tool in our toolbox against trespassers,” says Daryn McBeth, president of the Minnesota Agri-Growth Council. People, there are already strict trespassing and theft laws. Big Ag has all the legal recourse needed to sue or punish those who obtain footage of their operations, so why don’t they? Can you imagine dragging an activist into court and saying to the judge, “Look, he found out we were throwing live chickens into a grinder and put it on the internet. This violates my intellectual property rights!” No, their solution to the bad PR is slapping the whistleblowers with a major felony and throwing them in a cage with rapists, murders, and armed robbers. So they make the act of discovery into a crime to preclude such discoveries instead of accounting for their crimes, which, by the way, they believe to be perfectly acceptable industry standards. Since when is crying foul on criminal behavior like animal abuse and breaking regulations considered a crime? Any law that imprisons you by superceding your constitutional rights is null and void. But that isn’t going to touch Mr. Policeman when you explain as he hauls you away. Laws are laws, intentions are irrelevant to a judge. That’s what makes them so dangerous to your rights. You may think it only applies to those overzealous “tree hugger” types, but no, it means you too! Ironically, citizens are considered heroic when they turn in their neighbor or call in an anonymous tip to stop criminal behavior and abuse. Yes, even animal abuse! But boy, if you actually gather substantial evidence in a Big Ag operation and show the public when officials won’t listen – you go to prison for a long, long time. These bills remove the pea from the whistle should you witness something vile, whereas before you at least had the recourse of sharing with others. This encourages more abominable behavior; with more cover up, such actions are sanctioned, and the perpetrators can rest easy knowing the whistleblowers are silenced in prison. When USDA backed Big Ag operations are in violation of current standards, how do we know? Who cares – the USDA? Whistleblowers are often the only window for the public, and when embarrassing information is released, it often leads to raised standards. On a smaller scale, it works with the restaurant industry. Get an embarrassing (public) write up about cockroach infestations and suddenly the kitchen is overhauled, no expense is spared, and sanitation thrives in order to reassure those paying customers who like a fresh clean salad, hold the mouse poop. When these bills first arrived on the scene there was a lot of backlash, but our concern is that with more and more cropping up and some scaling back punishment, they will be more readily accepted by the public. Some reporters called the scale backs, “more reasonable.” Why? First amendment rights are still going in the grinder, citizens will still go to prison. The running theme here is force, force, force even if it’s currently undetectable. Forceful legislation from senators, funds from Big Ag and Monsanto to strengthen the force, the force of multiple states following suit, force from the ensuing law enforcement – force of slamming the door on the face of public scrutiny. It’s going to be increasingly difficult to catch these viral bills, inform others, and take action when they keep rearing their ugly heads like a nationwide game of whack-a-mole. But with such replicated force, much like a virus, you can see it is more important than ever to do something. http://healthfreedoms.org/2011/04/14/more-states-create-anti-whistleblower-bills/ States & Bill Numbers: Florida, SB1246 (Health Freedoms petition coming soon) Iowa HF431 Minnesota, S.F. No. 1118 Idaho HB166 *Part of their Right To Farm laws, this one would preclude “nuisance” suits from the public. ~Health Freedoms Related Articles: http://healthfreedoms.org/2011/04/11/monsanto-cash-helped-fund-bill-to-stifle-whistleblowers-in-iowa/ http://healthfreedoms.org/2011/03/28/your-guide-to-the-illegal-farm-photos-bill/ http://healthfreedoms.org/2011/03/24/big-ag-lobbies-to-make-it-illegal-to-secretly-film-animal-abuse-iowa/ http://healthfreedoms.org/2011/03/17/florida-lawmaker-wants-to-make-farm-photos-illegal-2/ Other Sources Cited: http://www.agweek.com/event/article/id/18230/ http://www.idahostatesman.com/2011/04/12/1602672/bill-would-ban-video-of-minn-farming.html http://www.startribune.com/local/119690504.html http://www.startribune.com/politics/119690504.html ### www.AFSConference.org www.antifursociety.org "All beings tremble before violence. All fear death. All love life. See yourself in others. Then whom can you hurt? What harm can you do? ~Buddha"
Thursday, April 14, 2011
Missouri: Tell Governor Nixon: VETO SB113 / Protecting Puppy Mills
Last November Missouri voters said “YES” on Prop B. Wednesday Missouri legislators said “NO” to that majority vote. The Missouri House of Representatives passed SB 113 on Wednesday – gutting all significant protections for dogs suffering in substandard puppy mills and sending the repeal of Proposition B to the desk of Governor Jay Nixon. Now is the time to contact Governor Nixon and let him know he should respect the will of the majority of Missouri voters. Please contact his office right now at (573) 751-3222. Let him know the democratic process and the well-being of dogs used for commercial breeding are important to you and he should veto SB 113. First the Senate and now the House have defied the will of the people and dismantled Proposition B piece by piece, dealing a blow to dogs suffering in substandard facilities and also to the democratic process in Missouri. Not only did some lawmakers choose to overturn a statewide vote, but some of them even voted against the majority in their own districts. Many legislators showed a profound disdain for the will of Missouri voters under the guise that Missourians weren’t smart enough to understand Proposition B. This is an insult to all of us who clearly knew we were voting to improve the barbaric and inhumane conditions in Missouri’s substandard breeding facilities. If Governor Nixon signs this legislation -- defying the will of the people and turning the clock back on the humane treatment of Missouri puppies and dogs -- we will not back down. We are prepared to immediately begin gathering signatures for a referendum to bring this issue back to Missouri voters and allow the people to have the final say. But RIGHT NOW, contact Governor Nixon. Tell him he should: -- stand with Missourians -- not career politicians; -- protect Prop B and Missouri's dogs, and -- VETO SB113. Call (573) 751-3222 or click here to contact Governor Nixon now. With kindest regards, Kathryn W. Warnick President Humane Society of Missouri
Thursday, March 24, 2011
INFLUENZA A (H1N1) 2009, ZOO ANIMALS - USA: (CALIFORNIA)
********************************************************
A ProMED-mail post
ProMED-mail is a program of the
International Society for Infectious Diseases
Date: Tue 22 Mar 2011
Source: CIDRAP (Center for Infectious Disease Research & Policy) News
[edited]
The [influenza A (H1N1) 2009] virus was detected in 3 animals of
diverse species at the San Diego Zoo in the fall of 2009, further
broadening the virus's range of animal hosts, according to a letter
published by Emerging Infectious Diseases (EID) [available at
. - Mod.TG]
The virus was found in a 12-year-old American badger, a 19-year-old
Bornean binturong, and a 7-year-old black-footed ferret. The badger
and binturong got severely sick with pneumonia and had to be
euthanized, but the ferret had a mild illness and recovered with
antibiotic and fluid treatment.
The source of the infections was not determined but was probably a
human. Ferrets are known to be susceptible to influenza A viruses, but
such cases have not been previously reported in badgers or binturongs,
the report says.
Other species that have been naturally infected with flu viruses
include swine, a dog, cats, turkeys, skunks, cheetahs, and giant
anteaters, and experimental infections have been reported in mice and
cynomolgous macaques.
"The ubiquity of pandemic (H1N1) 2009 and its ability to infect a
diverse range of hosts is worrisome for the health of wildlife and for
the possibility of creating additional reservoirs that could alter the
evolution of subtype H1N1 viruses by applying varied selection
pressures and establishing new ways of generating unique reassortant
strains," the authors say.
--
Communicated by:
ProMED-mail Rapporteur Mary Marshall
[Indeed the number of animals this virus touched, that we are aware
of, is quite frightening in terms of viral reassortment.
But if the ferret had less trouble with this virus than some other
animals, it is perhaps an animal we should be studying to learn why,
not just realize that it is more resistant to influenza type A, but
also really learn what the mechanism is that makes it more resistant
to that type of virus.
Photos
American badger (_Taxidea taxus_):
and
Bornean binturong (_Arctictis binturong penicillata_):
Black-footed ferret (_Mustela nigripes_):
and
.
- Mod.TG]
[The HealthMap/ProMED-mail interactive map of California can be seen
at. - Sr.Tech.Ed.MJ]
[see also:
Influenza A (H1N1) 2009, animal (02): USA (WI) feline 20110215.0500
Influenza A (H1N1) 2009, animal: UK, turkey 20110113.0150
2010
----
Influenza pandemic (H1N1) (64): WHO, pandemic over 20100811.2753
Influenza pandemic (H1N1) (63): WHO update 112 20100807.2680
Influenza pandemic (H1N1), animal (07): Finland, swine, OIE
20100901.3114
Influenza pandemic (H1N1), animal (06): Korea, swine 20100422.1296
Influenza pandemic (H1N1), animal (05): turkeys, insemination
20100205.0393
Influenza pandemic (H1N1), animal (04): global, update 20100131.0337
Influenza pandemic (H1N1), animal (03): Denmark, porcine
20100111.0128
Influenza pandemic (H1N1), animal (02): USA, turkey 20100108.0087
Influenza pandemic (H1N1), animal (01): China, porcine, canine
20100101.0014
2009
----
Influenza pandemic (H1N1) 2009, animal (42): USA (NC) swine
20091228.4372
Influenza pandemic (H1N1) 2009, animal (41): Russia (CV) swine, OIE
20091226.4353
Influenza pandemic (H1N1) 2009, animal (40): USA (NY) canine
20091222.4305
Influenza pandemic (H1N1) 2009, animal (39): Germany, swine, OIE
20091211.4220
Influenza pandemic (H1N1) 2009, animal (38): Mexico, swine, OIE
20091211.4214
Influenza pandemic (H1N1) 2009, animal (37): USA (OR, CA) feline
20091211.4213
Influenza pandemic (H1N1) 2009, animal (36): USA (CO) 20091209.419
Influenza pandemic (H1N1) 2009, animal (35): Italy, swine, OIE
20091205.4144
Influenza pandemic (H1N1) 2009, animal (34): UK (England)
20091204.4141
Influenza pandemic (H1N1) 2009, animal (33): USA (VA, CA)
20091204.4139
Influenza pandemic (H1N1) 2009, animal health (31): Finland,
swine,OIE 20091201.4106
Influenza pandemic (H1N1) 2009, animal health (29): Indonesia,
swine20091127.4071]
.................................................tg/mj/dk
*##########################################################*
************************************************************
ProMED-mail makes every effort to verify the reports that
are posted, but the accuracy and completeness of the
information, and of any statements or opinions based
thereon, are not guaranteed. The reader assumes all risks in
using information posted or archived by ProMED-mail. ISID
and its associated service providers shall not be held
responsible for errors or omissions or held liable for any
damages incurred as a result of use or reliance upon posted
or archived material.
************************************************************
Donate to ProMED-mail. Details available at:
************************************************************
Visit ProMED-mail's web site at.
Send all items for posting to: promed@promedmail.org (NOT to
an individual moderator). If you do not give your full name
name and affiliation, it may not be posted. You may unsub-
scribe at.
For assistance from a human being, send mail to:
.
############################################################
############################################################
A ProMED-mail post
ProMED-mail is a program of the
International Society for Infectious Diseases
Date: Tue 22 Mar 2011
Source: CIDRAP (Center for Infectious Disease Research & Policy) News
[edited]
The [influenza A (H1N1) 2009] virus was detected in 3 animals of
diverse species at the San Diego Zoo in the fall of 2009, further
broadening the virus's range of animal hosts, according to a letter
published by Emerging Infectious Diseases (EID) [available at
The virus was found in a 12-year-old American badger, a 19-year-old
Bornean binturong, and a 7-year-old black-footed ferret. The badger
and binturong got severely sick with pneumonia and had to be
euthanized, but the ferret had a mild illness and recovered with
antibiotic and fluid treatment.
The source of the infections was not determined but was probably a
human. Ferrets are known to be susceptible to influenza A viruses, but
such cases have not been previously reported in badgers or binturongs,
the report says.
Other species that have been naturally infected with flu viruses
include swine, a dog, cats, turkeys, skunks, cheetahs, and giant
anteaters, and experimental infections have been reported in mice and
cynomolgous macaques.
"The ubiquity of pandemic (H1N1) 2009 and its ability to infect a
diverse range of hosts is worrisome for the health of wildlife and for
the possibility of creating additional reservoirs that could alter the
evolution of subtype H1N1 viruses by applying varied selection
pressures and establishing new ways of generating unique reassortant
strains," the authors say.
--
Communicated by:
ProMED-mail Rapporteur Mary Marshall
[Indeed the number of animals this virus touched, that we are aware
of, is quite frightening in terms of viral reassortment.
But if the ferret had less trouble with this virus than some other
animals, it is perhaps an animal we should be studying to learn why,
not just realize that it is more resistant to influenza type A, but
also really learn what the mechanism is that makes it more resistant
to that type of virus.
Photos
American badger (_Taxidea taxus_):
and
Bornean binturong (_Arctictis binturong penicillata_):
Black-footed ferret (_Mustela nigripes_):
and
- Mod.TG]
[The HealthMap/ProMED-mail interactive map of California can be seen
at
[see also:
Influenza A (H1N1) 2009, animal (02): USA (WI) feline 20110215.0500
Influenza A (H1N1) 2009, animal: UK, turkey 20110113.0150
2010
----
Influenza pandemic (H1N1) (64): WHO, pandemic over 20100811.2753
Influenza pandemic (H1N1) (63): WHO update 112 20100807.2680
Influenza pandemic (H1N1), animal (07): Finland, swine, OIE
20100901.3114
Influenza pandemic (H1N1), animal (06): Korea, swine 20100422.1296
Influenza pandemic (H1N1), animal (05): turkeys, insemination
20100205.0393
Influenza pandemic (H1N1), animal (04): global, update 20100131.0337
Influenza pandemic (H1N1), animal (03): Denmark, porcine
20100111.0128
Influenza pandemic (H1N1), animal (02): USA, turkey 20100108.0087
Influenza pandemic (H1N1), animal (01): China, porcine, canine
20100101.0014
2009
----
Influenza pandemic (H1N1) 2009, animal (42): USA (NC) swine
20091228.4372
Influenza pandemic (H1N1) 2009, animal (41): Russia (CV) swine, OIE
20091226.4353
Influenza pandemic (H1N1) 2009, animal (40): USA (NY) canine
20091222.4305
Influenza pandemic (H1N1) 2009, animal (39): Germany, swine, OIE
20091211.4220
Influenza pandemic (H1N1) 2009, animal (38): Mexico, swine, OIE
20091211.4214
Influenza pandemic (H1N1) 2009, animal (37): USA (OR, CA) feline
20091211.4213
Influenza pandemic (H1N1) 2009, animal (36): USA (CO) 20091209.419
Influenza pandemic (H1N1) 2009, animal (35): Italy, swine, OIE
20091205.4144
Influenza pandemic (H1N1) 2009, animal (34): UK (England)
20091204.4141
Influenza pandemic (H1N1) 2009, animal (33): USA (VA, CA)
20091204.4139
Influenza pandemic (H1N1) 2009, animal health (31): Finland,
swine,OIE 20091201.4106
Influenza pandemic (H1N1) 2009, animal health (29): Indonesia,
swine20091127.4071]
.................................................tg/mj/dk
*##########################################################*
************************************************************
ProMED-mail makes every effort to verify the reports that
are posted, but the accuracy and completeness of the
information, and of any statements or opinions based
thereon, are not guaranteed. The reader assumes all risks in
using information posted or archived by ProMED-mail. ISID
and its associated service providers shall not be held
responsible for errors or omissions or held liable for any
damages incurred as a result of use or reliance upon posted
or archived material.
************************************************************
Donate to ProMED-mail. Details available at:
************************************************************
Visit ProMED-mail's web site at
Send all items for posting to: promed@promedmail.org (NOT to
an individual moderator). If you do not give your full name
name and affiliation, it may not be posted. You may unsub-
scribe at
For assistance from a human being, send mail to:
############################################################
############################################################
Wednesday, March 23, 2011
Monday, March 21, 2011
NJ resident charged in animal sacrifices
Sun Mar 20, 2011 8:25 am (PDT)
Forwarded message - for info, please visit
http://www.mycentraljersey.com/article/20110319/NJNEWS14/110319012/NJ-resident-charged-in-animal-sacrifices
NJ resident charged in animal sacrifices
3/20/11
FREEHOLD - A borough resident was charged with eight counts of animal
cruelty after the remains of numerous animals, including chickens, guinea
hens and a slider turtle, were found in his yard last week, authorities
said.
Jorge Badillo, 47, of 100 Center St., admitted he killed the animals in a
Santeria sacrifice ritual, said Victor "Buddy'' Amato, chief of the Monmouth
County Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. Santeria is a
religion practiced in some parts of the Caribbean.
Amato said borough police Officer Thomas Duda and his K-9 partner, Rocky,
noticed the remains while responding to an unrelated call on Thursday. Duda
contacted the SPCA.
Duda and Amato went to the residence at 100 Center St. on Friday afternoon,
and received permission from Badillo to search the yard, Amato said. They
found numerous dead animals in various states of decomposition, as well as
some live animals ready for slaughter and several Santeria altars, he said.
Amato said Badillo admitted sacrificing the animals.
Each count of animal cruelty carries a possible six-month jail term and fine
of $1,000. The charges are to be heard in municipal court on April 19.
Forwarded message - for info, please visit
http://www.mycentraljersey.com/article/20110319/NJNEWS14/110319012/NJ-resident-charged-in-animal-sacrifices
NJ resident charged in animal sacrifices
3/20/11
FREEHOLD - A borough resident was charged with eight counts of animal
cruelty after the remains of numerous animals, including chickens, guinea
hens and a slider turtle, were found in his yard last week, authorities
said.
Jorge Badillo, 47, of 100 Center St., admitted he killed the animals in a
Santeria sacrifice ritual, said Victor "Buddy'' Amato, chief of the Monmouth
County Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. Santeria is a
religion practiced in some parts of the Caribbean.
Amato said borough police Officer Thomas Duda and his K-9 partner, Rocky,
noticed the remains while responding to an unrelated call on Thursday. Duda
contacted the SPCA.
Duda and Amato went to the residence at 100 Center St. on Friday afternoon,
and received permission from Badillo to search the yard, Amato said. They
found numerous dead animals in various states of decomposition, as well as
some live animals ready for slaughter and several Santeria altars, he said.
Amato said Badillo admitted sacrificing the animals.
Each count of animal cruelty carries a possible six-month jail term and fine
of $1,000. The charges are to be heard in municipal court on April 19.
Saturday, March 5, 2011
Senior Blind Dog Tortured! Rio Rancho, NM
- Please take a minute for JUSTICE for Charlie, the Rio Rancho, NM Senior, Blind Dog that was brutally tortured!!
PLEASE EMAIL OR CALL REPRESENTATIVES LISTED IN THE BODY OF THIS EMAIL BELOW TO COMPLAIN AGAINST THE HEARTLESS CRUELTY AGAINST THIS POOR BLIND DOG WHOSE TESTICLES WERE BURNT BY THE MAN IN THE PHOTO BELOW.
HE STILL HAS OTHER ANIMALS IN HIS CARE WHO NEED TO BE RESCUED FROM HIM ASAP!!!
PLEASE CIRCULATE FAR & WIDE!! The petition is UP & all of the local contacts are listed! CALL! EMAIL! SIGN! SHARE! See below contacts...
This email is about a man in New Mexico who is accused by police of burning his blind dog's testicles and drop-kicking him, - still has other animals living in his home. It's been determined by the vet who saw Charlie that he had endured earlier torture and abuse. What this man did to this poor dog is criminal! Please take a moment to read more about Charlie and what he has endured. There is a petition to sign and also addresses for letters asking for punishment to the fullest extent of the law for this guy. I just can't get my head around people being so cruel.
Thanks so much for your time and for caring.
http://www.thepetitionsite.com/1/nm-man-accused-of-extreme-animal-abuse-and-torture/
Please click on the Care 2 Petition Site and sign to send the coward that brutally tortured this senior and blind dog, to jail. Thanks.
PLEASE FORWARD ON TO EVERYONE YOU KNOW! YOUR SIGNATURES ARE POWERFUL!
More info below.
(Dakota's House Rescue)
dakotashouserescue@yahoo.com
http://homebusinessformydogs.weebly.com/
--------------------------------------------------------
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. -- The man who Rio Rancho police accused of burning his blind dog's testicles and drop-kicking him still has other animals living in his home. Tuesday, March 1, 2011.
Many of you have been following the story of Charlie, a 10 year old dog that was brutally dropkicked, SET ON FIRE & thrown into a Yucca & the POS that inflicted this suffering on him, James Dickie of Rio Rancho, NM.
I was APPAULED when I got an anonymous call informing me that he has 3 more animals in his home, & told that RR police & animal control were doing nothing to remove them.
I have compiled a list of Rio Rancho city contacts below - PLEASE take a few minutes to write a letter, send an email or make a phone call protesting the complete LACK of accountabllity & concern for the other animals that has been shown by our paid & elected city officials. New Mexico Dogs Deserve Better is based out of Rio Rancho, NM & we work regularly with RRAC. THIS IS NOT OK!! You will probably receive some LAME form letter in response, as I have....but YOUR CALLS/EMAILS ARE VERY IMPORTANT in this case! We are currently working on a petition which be presented to the judge at the time of Dickie's hearing. But for now, it is VERY important that the folks handling this case KNOW that the citizens of Rio Rancho, the state of New Mexico & the nation are OUTRAGED with their complete lack of accoutability & concern fofr the welfare of these 3 animals currently living under the same roof as James Dickie, who was arrested for FELONY EXTREME ANIMAL CRUELTY! Let them know that we will NOT stand for it & that we DEMAND these animals be removed immediately! Let them know that James Dickie is a threat to our community & society - as we ALL know, this type of behavior with animals is only a precursor to violet behavior agianst people. I thank you! New Mexico Dogs Deserve Better thanks you! Charlie thanks you! The animals AT RISK in the home thank you!
Rio Rancho Mayor, Tom Swisstack
3200 Civic Center Circle NE
Rio Rancho, NM 87144
505-891-5001
505-891-7274 FAX
tswisstack@ci.rio-rancho.nm.us
Rio Rancho City Manager, James C. Jimenez
3200 Civic Center Circle NE
Rio Rancho, NM 87144
505-891-5001
505-891-7274
jjimenez@ci.rio-rancho.nm.us
Rio Rancho Assistant City Manager, Laura A. Fitzpatrick
3200 Civic Center Circle NE
Rio Rancho, NM 87144
505-891-5002
LFITZPATRICK@ci.rio-rancho.nm.us
Rio Rancho City Council Members:
Michael J. Williams mwilliams@ci.rio-rancho.nm.us
Patricia Thomas pthomas@ci.rio-rancho.nm.us
Tamara L. Gutierrez tgutierrez@ci.rio-rancho.nm.us
Steven L. Shaw sshaw@ci.rio-rancho.nm.us
Timothy C. Crum tcrum@ci.rio-rancho.nm.us
Kathleen Colley kcolley@ci.rio-rancho.nm.us
Rio Rancho Animal Control
Vickie Beazley, Animal Control Supervisor
Direct line: 505-891-5088
Cheryll Johns, Facilities Manager
3441 Northern Blvd.
Rio Rancho, NM 87124
505-891-5075
505-891-7207 FAX
Rio Rancho Chief of Police, Robert Boone
500 Quantum Road
Rio Rancho, NM 87124
505-891-59
Animal Protection of New Mexico
www.apnm.org
Lisa Boegel Cruelty Case Manager (505)821-9142
Animal Cruetly Taskforce Hotline (888)250-2178
This entity is out of the State Attorney Generals office & has been put in place to PROTECT our animals
James Dickie of Rio Rancho - arrested for felony extreme animal cruetly
for the LOVE of DOG...
Angela
NACA certified www.nacanet.org www.newmexicodogsdeservebetter.org
www.dogsdeservebetter.org
Dogs Deserve Better ~ NM a 501(c)3 non profit www.luvinlabs.com
New Mexico State Representative (505)974-4733 www.nmsiberianrescue.com
www.petfinder.com/pet-search?shelterid=NM129
PLEASE EMAIL OR CALL REPRESENTATIVES LISTED IN THE BODY OF THIS EMAIL BELOW TO COMPLAIN AGAINST THE HEARTLESS CRUELTY AGAINST THIS POOR BLIND DOG WHOSE TESTICLES WERE BURNT BY THE MAN IN THE PHOTO BELOW.
HE STILL HAS OTHER ANIMALS IN HIS CARE WHO NEED TO BE RESCUED FROM HIM ASAP!!!
PLEASE CIRCULATE FAR & WIDE!! The petition is UP & all of the local contacts are listed! CALL! EMAIL! SIGN! SHARE! See below contacts...
This email is about a man in New Mexico who is accused by police of burning his blind dog's testicles and drop-kicking him, - still has other animals living in his home. It's been determined by the vet who saw Charlie that he had endured earlier torture and abuse. What this man did to this poor dog is criminal! Please take a moment to read more about Charlie and what he has endured. There is a petition to sign and also addresses for letters asking for punishment to the fullest extent of the law for this guy. I just can't get my head around people being so cruel.
Thanks so much for your time and for caring.
http://www.thepetitionsite.com/1/nm-man-accused-of-extreme-animal-abuse-and-torture/
Please click on the Care 2 Petition Site and sign to send the coward that brutally tortured this senior and blind dog, to jail. Thanks.
PLEASE FORWARD ON TO EVERYONE YOU KNOW! YOUR SIGNATURES ARE POWERFUL!
More info below.
(Dakota's House Rescue)
dakotashouserescue@yahoo.com
http://homebusinessformydogs.weebly.com/
--------------------------------------------------------
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. -- The man who Rio Rancho police accused of burning his blind dog's testicles and drop-kicking him still has other animals living in his home. Tuesday, March 1, 2011.
Many of you have been following the story of Charlie, a 10 year old dog that was brutally dropkicked, SET ON FIRE & thrown into a Yucca & the POS that inflicted this suffering on him, James Dickie of Rio Rancho, NM.
I was APPAULED when I got an anonymous call informing me that he has 3 more animals in his home, & told that RR police & animal control were doing nothing to remove them.
I have compiled a list of Rio Rancho city contacts below - PLEASE take a few minutes to write a letter, send an email or make a phone call protesting the complete LACK of accountabllity & concern for the other animals that has been shown by our paid & elected city officials. New Mexico Dogs Deserve Better is based out of Rio Rancho, NM & we work regularly with RRAC. THIS IS NOT OK!! You will probably receive some LAME form letter in response, as I have....but YOUR CALLS/EMAILS ARE VERY IMPORTANT in this case! We are currently working on a petition which be presented to the judge at the time of Dickie's hearing. But for now, it is VERY important that the folks handling this case KNOW that the citizens of Rio Rancho, the state of New Mexico & the nation are OUTRAGED with their complete lack of accoutability & concern fofr the welfare of these 3 animals currently living under the same roof as James Dickie, who was arrested for FELONY EXTREME ANIMAL CRUELTY! Let them know that we will NOT stand for it & that we DEMAND these animals be removed immediately! Let them know that James Dickie is a threat to our community & society - as we ALL know, this type of behavior with animals is only a precursor to violet behavior agianst people. I thank you! New Mexico Dogs Deserve Better thanks you! Charlie thanks you! The animals AT RISK in the home thank you!
Rio Rancho Mayor, Tom Swisstack
3200 Civic Center Circle NE
Rio Rancho, NM 87144
505-891-5001
505-891-7274 FAX
tswisstack@ci.rio-rancho.nm.us
Rio Rancho City Manager, James C. Jimenez
3200 Civic Center Circle NE
Rio Rancho, NM 87144
505-891-5001
505-891-7274
jjimenez@ci.rio-rancho.nm.us
Rio Rancho Assistant City Manager, Laura A. Fitzpatrick
3200 Civic Center Circle NE
Rio Rancho, NM 87144
505-891-5002
LFITZPATRICK@ci.rio-rancho.nm.us
Rio Rancho City Council Members:
Michael J. Williams mwilliams@ci.rio-rancho.nm.us
Patricia Thomas pthomas@ci.rio-rancho.nm.us
Tamara L. Gutierrez tgutierrez@ci.rio-rancho.nm.us
Steven L. Shaw sshaw@ci.rio-rancho.nm.us
Timothy C. Crum tcrum@ci.rio-rancho.nm.us
Kathleen Colley kcolley@ci.rio-rancho.nm.us
Rio Rancho Animal Control
Vickie Beazley, Animal Control Supervisor
Direct line: 505-891-5088
Cheryll Johns, Facilities Manager
3441 Northern Blvd.
Rio Rancho, NM 87124
505-891-5075
505-891-7207 FAX
Rio Rancho Chief of Police, Robert Boone
500 Quantum Road
Rio Rancho, NM 87124
505-891-59
Animal Protection of New Mexico
www.apnm.org
Lisa Boegel Cruelty Case Manager (505)821-9142
Animal Cruetly Taskforce Hotline (888)250-2178
This entity is out of the State Attorney Generals office & has been put in place to PROTECT our animals
James Dickie of Rio Rancho - arrested for felony extreme animal cruetly
for the LOVE of DOG...
Angela
NACA certified www.nacanet.org www.newmexicodogsdeservebetter.org
www.dogsdeservebetter.org
Dogs Deserve Better ~ NM a 501(c)3 non profit www.luvinlabs.com
New Mexico State Representative (505)974-4733 www.nmsiberianrescue.com
www.petfinder.com/pet-search?shelterid=NM129
Wednesday, March 2, 2011
Fla. Seeks New Law to Stop Under-Cover Video-Taping of Animal Cruelty
Florida Senate - 2011 SB 1246
By Senator Norman
12-01071A-11 20111246__
1 A bill to be entitled
2 An act relating to farms; prohibiting a person from
3 entering onto a farm or photographing or video
4 recording a farm without the owner’s written consent;
5 providing a definition; providing penalties; providing
6 an effective date.
7
8 Be It Enacted by the Legislature of the State of Florida:
9
10 Section 1. (1) A person who enters onto a farm or other
11 property where legitimate agriculture operations are being
12 conducted without the written consent of the owner, or an
13 authorized representative of the owner, commits a felony of the
14 first degree, punishable as provided in s. 775.082, s. 775.083,
15 or s. 775.084, Florida Statutes.
16 (2) A person who photographs, video records, or otherwise
17 produces images or pictorial records, digital or otherwise, at
18 or of a farm or other property where legitimate agriculture
19 operations are being conducted without the written consent of
20 the owner, or an authorized representative of the owner, commits
21 a felony of the first degree, punishable as provided in s.
22 775.082, s. 775.083, or s. 775.084, Florida Statutes.
23 (3) As used in this section, the term “farm” includes any
24 tract of land cultivated for the purpose of agricultural
25 production, the raising and breeding of domestic animals, or the
26 storage of a commodity.
27 Section 2. This act shall take effect July 1, 2011.
By Senator Norman
12-01071A-11 20111246__
1 A bill to be entitled
2 An act relating to farms; prohibiting a person from
3 entering onto a farm or photographing or video
4 recording a farm without the owner’s written consent;
5 providing a definition; providing penalties; providing
6 an effective date.
7
8 Be It Enacted by the Legislature of the State of Florida:
9
10 Section 1. (1) A person who enters onto a farm or other
11 property where legitimate agriculture operations are being
12 conducted without the written consent of the owner, or an
13 authorized representative of the owner, commits a felony of the
14 first degree, punishable as provided in s. 775.082, s. 775.083,
15 or s. 775.084, Florida Statutes.
16 (2) A person who photographs, video records, or otherwise
17 produces images or pictorial records, digital or otherwise, at
18 or of a farm or other property where legitimate agriculture
19 operations are being conducted without the written consent of
20 the owner, or an authorized representative of the owner, commits
21 a felony of the first degree, punishable as provided in s.
22 775.082, s. 775.083, or s. 775.084, Florida Statutes.
23 (3) As used in this section, the term “farm” includes any
24 tract of land cultivated for the purpose of agricultural
25 production, the raising and breeding of domestic animals, or the
26 storage of a commodity.
27 Section 2. This act shall take effect July 1, 2011.
Monday, February 28, 2011
Chamberlain's Story
Abandoned by his owners when they moved away, left out in the back yard chained to a tree, for at least two months with out food, shelter or water. No one knew he was there until one day someone decided to mow the lawn;
First days; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FuPtQaoLf18
Therapy; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HHbl4i7Jm7k&feature=related
Warning, vids not easy too watch. Chamberlain lay starving, a mass of skin and bones, helpless and immobile for so long he lost the use of his legs.
Several weeks into recovery, Chamberlain has gained some weight and gets his new chair;
First days; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FuPtQaoLf18
Therapy; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HHbl4i7Jm7k&feature=related
Warning, vids not easy too watch. Chamberlain lay starving, a mass of skin and bones, helpless and immobile for so long he lost the use of his legs.
Several weeks into recovery, Chamberlain has gained some weight and gets his new chair;
However, he still receives therapy to hopefully get those legs working again someday, all four of them.
Good luck Chamberlain. We love you!
Saturday, February 26, 2011
Did You Get Rid of Your Dog Because of this Article?
There was an article in the January 24th edition of USA Today about The Danger of Dogs Sleeping in Bed.
Before you knew it, this story was being reported in news across the nation with the media playing to the terrible dangers of pets.
This story really upset me so I wanted to have a vet or two respond with an honest and irreverent opinion. So, once again I turned to the Irreverent Veterinarian for opinions on this topic.
To read the response from the Irreverent Vet, go to: http://www.petplace.com/irreverent-vet-speaks-out-on-the-danger-of-dogs-sleeping-in-bed
Was this article just irresponsible reporting or are there really significant dangers from letting pets sleep in your bed? Find out. And PLEASE don't make any decisions about allowing your dog in bed or getting rid of your dog before reading this article.
Until next time,
Dr. Jon
P.S. On a lighter note - I'd love to share some adorable photos of dogs sleeping (many in bed). These are adorable. Take a minute to check these out because they are sure to make you smile. Go to: http://www.petplace.com/Sleepingdogs
Before you knew it, this story was being reported in news across the nation with the media playing to the terrible dangers of pets.
This story really upset me so I wanted to have a vet or two respond with an honest and irreverent opinion. So, once again I turned to the Irreverent Veterinarian for opinions on this topic.
To read the response from the Irreverent Vet, go to: http://www.petplace.com/irreverent-vet-speaks-out-on-the-danger-of-dogs-sleeping-in-bed
Was this article just irresponsible reporting or are there really significant dangers from letting pets sleep in your bed? Find out. And PLEASE don't make any decisions about allowing your dog in bed or getting rid of your dog before reading this article.
Until next time,
Dr. Jon
P.S. On a lighter note - I'd love to share some adorable photos of dogs sleeping (many in bed). These are adorable. Take a minute to check these out because they are sure to make you smile. Go to: http://www.petplace.com/Sleepingdogs
Friday, February 25, 2011
Sunday, February 20, 2011
Saturday, February 19, 2011
ALDF's 3rd Annual National Justice for Animals Week
February 21-25 marks the Animal Legal Defense Fund’s third annual National Justice for Animals Week. Please invite your readers to join us for a week-long campaign to fight animal abuse and honor animal victims!
Each day during National Justice for Animals Week, ALDF will post an action that your readers can take part in to bring us closer to real justice for animal victims. Check us out on Facebook and ALDF’s blog to find out how your readers can participate in quick and effective actions each day this week! For example, we’ll kick off the week on Monday by asking our supporters to write an Letter to the Editor (LTE) to their local paper—those who get an LTE published win an ALDF prize pack!
We’ll also be announcing America’s Top Ten Animal Defenders. Here’s a sneak peek of the defenders being recognized this year by the Animal Legal Defense Fund:·
*Suffolk County, New York Legislator Jon Cooper, who sponsored the historic “Justin’s Law,” passed by a unanimous vote last October, which creates the nation’s first mandatory public registry for criminals convicted of animal abuse.
* Joshua Crain, who sought felony charges in a jury trial in Tennessee against a man who, after his 2-year-old Siberian Husky chewed on some wiring in his home, beat him and then used a metal file to grind down the dog’s teeth.
National Justice for Animals Week is also a great opportunity to ask your readers to sign on to demand that their state require animal abusers to register in their communities. Check out the petition here: www.exposeanimalabusers.org.
Thanks to supporters’ signatures 20 new animal abuser registry bills have already been introduced in various states in 2011!
More information about National Justice for Animals Week will be available on our website starting Monday, please visit: www.aldf.org
Each day during National Justice for Animals Week, ALDF will post an action that your readers can take part in to bring us closer to real justice for animal victims. Check us out on Facebook and ALDF’s blog to find out how your readers can participate in quick and effective actions each day this week! For example, we’ll kick off the week on Monday by asking our supporters to write an Letter to the Editor (LTE) to their local paper—those who get an LTE published win an ALDF prize pack!
We’ll also be announcing America’s Top Ten Animal Defenders. Here’s a sneak peek of the defenders being recognized this year by the Animal Legal Defense Fund:·
*Suffolk County, New York Legislator Jon Cooper, who sponsored the historic “Justin’s Law,” passed by a unanimous vote last October, which creates the nation’s first mandatory public registry for criminals convicted of animal abuse.
* Joshua Crain, who sought felony charges in a jury trial in Tennessee against a man who, after his 2-year-old Siberian Husky chewed on some wiring in his home, beat him and then used a metal file to grind down the dog’s teeth.
National Justice for Animals Week is also a great opportunity to ask your readers to sign on to demand that their state require animal abusers to register in their communities. Check out the petition here: www.exposeanimalabusers.org.
Thanks to supporters’ signatures 20 new animal abuser registry bills have already been introduced in various states in 2011!
More information about National Justice for Animals Week will be available on our website starting Monday, please visit: www.aldf.org
Thursday, February 17, 2011
Puppy Mill Pups on eBay? Say NO!
Puppy mills" are large-scale commercial operations where dozens of dogs are kept in small cages for their entire lives, forced to give birth to litter after litter until they're no longer fertile, at which point they're usually killed. Puppy mills are unsafe, inhumane, and produce thousands of puppies with serious health problems every year.
Now, puppy mills have found a national vendor: eBay.
A few years ago, eBay had plans to sell animals via online auction. Responsible breeders would never sell dogs via online auction, so this would have resulted in the site becoming a haven for puppy mills. eBay users and anti-cruelty activists spearheaded -- and won -- the fight to prevent eBay from selling live animals.
But now all that's changed.
Despite eBay's claims that it "do[es] not condone unethical treatment of animals," eBay now allows puppy mills to sell dogs in its classified section.
This practice enables flagrant cruelty to dogs, and it has to stop. Tell eBay to shut down its sales of cruelly treated puppies and all live animals.
Puppy mill dogs spend their entire lives in small wire cages, without companionship, and often without vet care, exercise or shelter from the elements. As far as puppy mill owners are concerned, the dogs have one purpose: to supply the pet trade.
The USDA recently admitted that they’ve failed to effectively monitor commercial breeders and puppy mills. When it comes to sites like eBay Classifieds, it’s even worse: Breeders who sell directly to customers online aren’t subject to any USDA regulations.
The best chance we have to shut down puppy mills is to hold vendors accountable.
Click here to tell eBay to shut down all live animal sales immediately:
http://www.change.org/petitions/ebay-classifieds-stop-selling-live-animals?alert_id=JhDDcGIQNR_KjsPUDxOJd&me=aa
Thanks for taking action,
Judith and the Change.org Team
Now, puppy mills have found a national vendor: eBay.
A few years ago, eBay had plans to sell animals via online auction. Responsible breeders would never sell dogs via online auction, so this would have resulted in the site becoming a haven for puppy mills. eBay users and anti-cruelty activists spearheaded -- and won -- the fight to prevent eBay from selling live animals.
But now all that's changed.
Despite eBay's claims that it "do[es] not condone unethical treatment of animals," eBay now allows puppy mills to sell dogs in its classified section.
This practice enables flagrant cruelty to dogs, and it has to stop. Tell eBay to shut down its sales of cruelly treated puppies and all live animals.
Puppy mill dogs spend their entire lives in small wire cages, without companionship, and often without vet care, exercise or shelter from the elements. As far as puppy mill owners are concerned, the dogs have one purpose: to supply the pet trade.
The USDA recently admitted that they’ve failed to effectively monitor commercial breeders and puppy mills. When it comes to sites like eBay Classifieds, it’s even worse: Breeders who sell directly to customers online aren’t subject to any USDA regulations.
The best chance we have to shut down puppy mills is to hold vendors accountable.
Click here to tell eBay to shut down all live animal sales immediately:
http://www.change.org/petitions/ebay-classifieds-stop-selling-live-animals?alert_id=JhDDcGIQNR_KjsPUDxOJd&me=aa
Thanks for taking action,
Judith and the Change.org Team
Sunday, February 13, 2011
Hi-Kill Shelters Wanted for HBO Doc
Permission to Crosspost
Granted & Appreciated
HBO is looking to film a documentary series about high kill shelters this March. The producer is looking to use this film as an opportunity to shed light on both the the staggering numbers of adoptable dogs that are euthanized for space restraints and some of the methods of euthanasia (such as the gas chamber and heartsticks) that the public probably doesn't know about.
We are looking for a shelter that uses either the gas chamber or heartsticks that would be willing to be filmed to participate in this film. The filming would take place over 1-2 days and the camera crew would need unrestricted access to the day to day activities of the pound. It would be hard to overstate what an incredible opportunity this would be for any shelter that was featured. Not only would it greatly increase the profile of a potentially small, rural pound and help increase adoptions and donations- but at least one dog from this shelter would be pulled by PAWS New England (http://www.pawsnewengland.com/) and may be featured in this film.
As HBO reaches a large national audience, this series has the potential to be ground breaking for shelter dogs around the country. Thank you, in advance, for helping make this a success!
If you are interested in participating, please email Kelly Parker immediately at kesalerno@gmail.com.
Many thanks!
Kelly Parker
Cofounder PAWS New England
-----------------
I am going to suggest our own local Hi-Kill shelter, the Mohawk-Hudson Humane Society in Menands, NY,...who wont even divuldge their kill-rate; http://www.mohawkhumanesociety.org/
Granted & Appreciated
HBO is looking to film a documentary series about high kill shelters this March. The producer is looking to use this film as an opportunity to shed light on both the the staggering numbers of adoptable dogs that are euthanized for space restraints and some of the methods of euthanasia (such as the gas chamber and heartsticks) that the public probably doesn't know about.
We are looking for a shelter that uses either the gas chamber or heartsticks that would be willing to be filmed to participate in this film. The filming would take place over 1-2 days and the camera crew would need unrestricted access to the day to day activities of the pound. It would be hard to overstate what an incredible opportunity this would be for any shelter that was featured. Not only would it greatly increase the profile of a potentially small, rural pound and help increase adoptions and donations- but at least one dog from this shelter would be pulled by PAWS New England (http://www.pawsnewengland.com/) and may be featured in this film.
As HBO reaches a large national audience, this series has the potential to be ground breaking for shelter dogs around the country. Thank you, in advance, for helping make this a success!
If you are interested in participating, please email Kelly Parker immediately at kesalerno@gmail.com.
Many thanks!
Kelly Parker
Cofounder PAWS New England
-----------------
I am going to suggest our own local Hi-Kill shelter, the Mohawk-Hudson Humane Society in Menands, NY,...who wont even divuldge their kill-rate; http://www.mohawkhumanesociety.org/
Wednesday, February 2, 2011
Reward Offered for Info on Sled Dog Culling
Please ask your readers to help the Animal Legal Defense Fund speak out for sled dogs. Sponsorship is the biggest source of revenue for the race; have them contact the Iditarod’s corporate sponsors and request that they no longer fund this deadly and horrific event. Here’s the link: http://org2.democracyinaction.org/o/5154/p/dia/action/public/?action_KEY=5388
*MEDIA ALERT*
$1K REWARD OFFERED FOR INFORMATION ABOUT ILLEGAL “CULLS” OF SLED DOGS
This week, a shocking report from the British Columbia Worker's Compensation Board has sparked outrage across North America--the general manager of a dog tour company filed an application for post-traumatic stress disorder after having killed 100 sled dogs on April 21 and 23, 2010, as allegedly ordered to by his employer. The execution-style cull is now the subject of an animal cruelty investigation. Many aspects of the Howling Dog Tours case suggest the possibility of culls occurring in similar sled dog operations elsewhere, driven by the poor economy and the high cost of maintaining the dogs. That is why the Animal Legal Defense Fund (www.aldf.org) is offering a $1,000 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of anyone engaged in the illegal killing of sled dogs in the U.S. or Canada.
According to the British Columbia SPCA, the slaughter of unwanted dogs is “a problem with the sled dog industry in general,” and one of the companies involved in the incident says they expected a cull to take place. The British Columbia government announced today that it will consider changes for the dogsledding industry generally. In the U.S. the industry goes largely unregulated, and mushing is actually exempt from state cruelty laws in Alaska (Alaska Stat. § 11.61.140(e)). If there is an economic incentive for dog sled operators to engage in culls and little oversight of the practice, similar culls may be happening in the U.S. and elsewhere in Canada.
Media reports suggest that the killing of unwanted dogs is standard practice in the mushing industry:
· Iditarod musher John Cooper wrote a story for the Anchorage Daily News about getting rid of unwanted puppies by tossing them in a creek;
· Iditarod musher Frank Winkler was charged with animal cruelty for bludgeoning 14 sled dog puppies with an ax handle;
· Dan MacEachen, owner of a sled dog center at Colorado’s Snowmass Village, allegedly shot old, injured, and unwanted huskies with a rifle and buried them in a pit;
· Musher Charlie Campbell said to the Anchorage Daily News, "I’m definitely going to have to cull some dogs,” and “we're going to have to be ruthless about who we keep;"
· Musher Frank Turner told the CBC, “Competitive kennels, or even kennels that may not be competitive but aspire to be, often breed more dogs than they're actually going to be able to keep, afford to keep and pay for the vet bills, the food and all the other associated costs.”
Law enforcement and the American people need to know about the abuse behind the dogsledding industry. If you have information relating to the practice of behind-the-scenes dog culls at sledding operations, please contact the Animal Legal Defense Fund at 707-795-2533 x1035.
More: ALDF was founded in 1979 with the unique mission of protecting the lives and advancing the interests of animals through the legal system. For more information, please visit www.aldf.org.
Media Contact: Lisa Franzetta (ALDF)--707-795-2533 x1015; lfranzetta@aldf.org
*MEDIA ALERT*
$1K REWARD OFFERED FOR INFORMATION ABOUT ILLEGAL “CULLS” OF SLED DOGS
This week, a shocking report from the British Columbia Worker's Compensation Board has sparked outrage across North America--the general manager of a dog tour company filed an application for post-traumatic stress disorder after having killed 100 sled dogs on April 21 and 23, 2010, as allegedly ordered to by his employer. The execution-style cull is now the subject of an animal cruelty investigation. Many aspects of the Howling Dog Tours case suggest the possibility of culls occurring in similar sled dog operations elsewhere, driven by the poor economy and the high cost of maintaining the dogs. That is why the Animal Legal Defense Fund (www.aldf.org) is offering a $1,000 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of anyone engaged in the illegal killing of sled dogs in the U.S. or Canada.
According to the British Columbia SPCA, the slaughter of unwanted dogs is “a problem with the sled dog industry in general,” and one of the companies involved in the incident says they expected a cull to take place. The British Columbia government announced today that it will consider changes for the dogsledding industry generally. In the U.S. the industry goes largely unregulated, and mushing is actually exempt from state cruelty laws in Alaska (Alaska Stat. § 11.61.140(e)). If there is an economic incentive for dog sled operators to engage in culls and little oversight of the practice, similar culls may be happening in the U.S. and elsewhere in Canada.
Media reports suggest that the killing of unwanted dogs is standard practice in the mushing industry:
· Iditarod musher John Cooper wrote a story for the Anchorage Daily News about getting rid of unwanted puppies by tossing them in a creek;
· Iditarod musher Frank Winkler was charged with animal cruelty for bludgeoning 14 sled dog puppies with an ax handle;
· Dan MacEachen, owner of a sled dog center at Colorado’s Snowmass Village, allegedly shot old, injured, and unwanted huskies with a rifle and buried them in a pit;
· Musher Charlie Campbell said to the Anchorage Daily News, "I’m definitely going to have to cull some dogs,” and “we're going to have to be ruthless about who we keep;"
· Musher Frank Turner told the CBC, “Competitive kennels, or even kennels that may not be competitive but aspire to be, often breed more dogs than they're actually going to be able to keep, afford to keep and pay for the vet bills, the food and all the other associated costs.”
Law enforcement and the American people need to know about the abuse behind the dogsledding industry. If you have information relating to the practice of behind-the-scenes dog culls at sledding operations, please contact the Animal Legal Defense Fund at 707-795-2533 x1035.
More: ALDF was founded in 1979 with the unique mission of protecting the lives and advancing the interests of animals through the legal system. For more information, please visit www.aldf.org.
Media Contact: Lisa Franzetta (ALDF)--707-795-2533 x1015; lfranzetta@aldf.org
Thursday, January 27, 2011
Kaparot: Absolving Sins Through Animal Torture & Abuse
Background: 1692
Many Jews believe that a chicken can bear the sins of a Jew, and then be killed to serve as the atonement for those sins. It is done in a ritual called Kaparot that is hundreds of years old. The ritual is done in assemblies, during the ten days of Rosh Hashanah leading up to Yom Kippur, the Day of Atonement. This year Yom Kippur will begin at sundown on October 8th.
How it works:
In the ninth century Jew scholars decided that since the Hebrew word gever meant both “rooster” and “man,” it followed that a chicken sacrifice could serve as the atonement for a Jew’s sins.
A white chicken is preferred. A rooster for a man, and a hen for a woman. First a selected Old Testament verse is read aloud, generally from Psalms 107:17-20 or Job 33:23-24. The chicken is then held by the legs, or by pinning the wings back and gripping it under the shoulder blades. The Jew then swings the chicken in a circle above their head three times, while reciting this chant: “This is my exchange, my substitute, my atonement; this rooster (or hen) shall go to its death, but I shall go to a good, long life, and to peace.” That’s it, and the ritual atones for an entire years worth of sins! The chicken is then handed to a Jew butcher who cuts its throat and vocal cords, for kosher reasons and so that the chicken can not squawk in pain. At this point the chicken is sometimes shoved into an inverted traffic cone to drain it of its blood. Finally it is thrown into a trash bag with other sacrificed chickens. The chicken’s death from loss of blood releases the sins, and the Jew is then cleansed of their sins.
Animal rights activist and others, including some Jews, think that the ritual is cruel to chickens. It is legally practiced in America under the right to freedom of religion.
More info and some videos;
http://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=Kaparot%2BOR%2BKapparot%2BOR%2BKaparrot%2BOR%2BKapparot%2BOR%2BKaparos%2BOR%2BKapparos%2BOR%2BKaparros%2BOR%2BCaparot%2BOR%2BCapparot%2BOR%2BCaparrot%2BOR%2BCaparos%2BOR%2B&search_type=&aq=-1&oq=
Many Jews believe that a chicken can bear the sins of a Jew, and then be killed to serve as the atonement for those sins. It is done in a ritual called Kaparot that is hundreds of years old. The ritual is done in assemblies, during the ten days of Rosh Hashanah leading up to Yom Kippur, the Day of Atonement. This year Yom Kippur will begin at sundown on October 8th.
How it works:
In the ninth century Jew scholars decided that since the Hebrew word gever meant both “rooster” and “man,” it followed that a chicken sacrifice could serve as the atonement for a Jew’s sins.
A white chicken is preferred. A rooster for a man, and a hen for a woman. First a selected Old Testament verse is read aloud, generally from Psalms 107:17-20 or Job 33:23-24. The chicken is then held by the legs, or by pinning the wings back and gripping it under the shoulder blades. The Jew then swings the chicken in a circle above their head three times, while reciting this chant: “This is my exchange, my substitute, my atonement; this rooster (or hen) shall go to its death, but I shall go to a good, long life, and to peace.” That’s it, and the ritual atones for an entire years worth of sins! The chicken is then handed to a Jew butcher who cuts its throat and vocal cords, for kosher reasons and so that the chicken can not squawk in pain. At this point the chicken is sometimes shoved into an inverted traffic cone to drain it of its blood. Finally it is thrown into a trash bag with other sacrificed chickens. The chicken’s death from loss of blood releases the sins, and the Jew is then cleansed of their sins.
Animal rights activist and others, including some Jews, think that the ritual is cruel to chickens. It is legally practiced in America under the right to freedom of religion.
More info and some videos;
http://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=Kaparot%2BOR%2BKapparot%2BOR%2BKaparrot%2BOR%2BKapparot%2BOR%2BKaparos%2BOR%2BKapparos%2BOR%2BKaparros%2BOR%2BCaparot%2BOR%2BCapparot%2BOR%2BCaparrot%2BOR%2BCaparos%2BOR%2B&search_type=&aq=-1&oq=
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