Articles
Samantha Whitesides' StarExponent Column 1
January 18, 2009
There is a link between animals in need and people in need. Whether trapping animals for the trap-neuter-return program at the Humane Society of Culpeper or taking pet food to area homes for those in need, I have learned that the human part of the animal welfare equation cannot be ignored. Years ago when I worked for a farm shelter, the focus was often on abuse cases where the human part involved criminal or negligent cruelty. That work required a hardened attitude to deal with some serious (legal) situations, but I was also introduced to loving, personal relationships with caretakers of animals who themselves were neglected or forgotten. The proverbial "cat lady," the "pet collector," "the feral-feeder" these kind people continue to give of themselves to protect and feed animals despite their own desperate circumstances. I have also worked to bring together Culpeper’s “animal-interested people� through legislative groups, veterinarians and county officials, as well as with my participation with the HSC. As a native of Culpeper I have seen many changes and lots of growth. I hope to add to the building of a cooperative network of professionals and concerned citizens for the benefit of animals and people alike. People in Culpeper that I’ve talked to feel that if more was known about the suffering of both the animals and the folks who care for them, there might be a wider response to those needs. Most of us don’t know whether our neighbor is eating regularly, not to mention if their pets are. And there is certainly a significant gap between the growing number of homeless animals and the understanding of how they came to be. As I contribute stories in the coming weeks, my desire is to communicate not only what the issues are in Culpeper regarding companion animals, but also to relate how we can help our neighbors and the community by addressing those issues. I will attempt to define what it means to “make a difference� or “save a life� of a dog or cat, or a person whose life is better for the existence of that pet. Let me point out that there are definitely missed opportunities that cost both animals and people their very lives. It can become too late to respond and therefore too late to make that difference, that so many seek in our community. Stay tuned — there is much to talk about.
Be Prepared
Disaster Planning
A disaster could strike at anytime. Are you and your entire family prepared? Yes, those of us with companion animals need to make a few extra preparations. In addition to the emergency kits for other family members, a portable pet supply kit should be stored in an easily accessible location, and periodically checked to keep up to date, and to freshen supplies. Although such kits can be purchased in which you would still need to complete, you can make a kit yourself.
- Humane Society of the United States
- American Red Cross
- The American Veterinary Medical Association
- Virginia Federation of Humane Societies
- Ready.gov
- Petswelcome.com (find places that alow pets)
When we take our companion animals into consideration as part of our disaster planning process, we can be a bit less stressed knowing their comfort and safety has been taken care of.
5 Most Toxic Houseplants for Cats
Keep your loved ones safe!
- Lilies
- Lilly of the Valley
- Foxglove
- Monkshood
- Anemone
If you fear that your cat has ingested a poisonous plant, get him / her to a vet immediately. If you can't, try to induce vomitting with:
- 1 tsp. of Hydrogen Peroxide with 1 cup of water
- 2 tbsp. of salt with 1 cup of water
- 1/2 mil. of Syrup of Ipecac per pound of your cat
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