I CANNOT WATCH THESE COMMERCIALS ANYMORE!

The advent of the holiday giving season and the optimistic feeling of goodwill also brings the constant barrage of aspca commercials of miserable animals who can't wait one more minute to be rescued. That animal abuse occurs is not in question, but what is in question, is truth in advertising.

The aspca continues to refuse to disclose to the public that they are neither an umbrella organization nor related in any way to every other spca in the country, much to the confusion of the consumers/donors- which is a very lucrative omission.

According to their financials, they reported almost half a billion dollars ( $487,997,137) in net assets, spent $56,433,000 in advertising, but shared only a miniscule 12, 559,279 with other charities and public shelters!

In an investigative report, Jack Hubbard of the The Center for the Environment and Welfare, (CEW), while investigating the aspca, quipped "Most people believe they're associated with all the local shelters, but they're not," said Hubbard. "The ASPCA should change its name to the Midtown Manhattan ASPCA."  This investigation  was in addition to a CBS expose' followed by the aspca former CEO speaking out as well about said lucrative omission.

Back to the aspca commercials- 

In 2014, aspca eliminated its law enforcement unit dedicated to investigating, rescuing, and intervening in cases of animal cruelty, and ceded that responsibility to the NYC police department. So, when they seek funds to rescue and investigate animal abuse, do they, and where does the money go?  Also - who owns the case footage? Is it an actual case or staged?

Some footage may be prior to 2014, and some may come from the occasional times they assist other agencies during which they film themselves! Does aspca share the funds with those agencies? Are those agencies compensated for the use of the footage in their respective cases to help with the costs of care? Do they have permission to use what might be evidence photos on television? Is this exploitive of both the agencies in and the animals in need?

Here is my two cents. As you suffer through endless airings of sad commercial advertisements for the aspca, think about the needs of animals who need help in your community. If you can only donate to one animal welfare organization, please donate to your local shelter where your help is critical. If you can afford more, please give it to all of us!  But if that includes the aspca, and your interest is intervening in animal cruelty, consider instead a restricted donation to NYPD for that use.  

Sy Syms, a former broadcaster, used to say, "an educated consumer is our best customer".

Please - as the author Fran Lebowitz might say -   think before you donate, and study before you think! 

 

 

Call to Action - Rodeo ban fight not over - saboteurs poised to vote against ban at next vote

Ban the Rodeo Rally 12/5/23

spcaLA Applauds Los Angeles City Council Vote to Ban Rodeos and particularly thanks Councilmember Blumenfield for his efforts and dedication to this reform. I was honored to be asked to speak at both the rally and before the council.

But the fight is not over yet. There will still be a chance to sabotage this effort when the ordinance is actually drafted and presented to the council for another vote. Councilmembers Monica Rodriguez and Kevin De Leon are still vocally against this measure, are still insisting tripping horses etc., is a cultural thing, and will not be satisfied with the exemption language that was adopted at their request. It is possible that they will lead an effort to undo what was passed yesterday. (Exceptions for equestrian and cultural events, as long as riders do not participate in activities that physically “take down” an animal, rope an animal, or attempt to ride a bucking animal, i.e. bareback bronc riding, bull riding, calf roping, and steer wrestling, and or course violation existing laws.)

Look, this is about greed and nothing else. No culture wants to be associated with violence and gratuitous cruelty. What an insulting rationale. Like dogfighters who protest that their pet dogs are treated like royalty, rodeo riders would never subject their own horses to the horrendous treatment of the horse performers. The difference - is the fighting dogs and the rodeo horses are just tools to earn money while providing "entertainment".

    "Racism, economic deprival, dog fighting and cock fighting, bullfighting and RODEOS (emphasis added) are cut from the same fabric:  violence.  Only when we have become nonviolent towards all life will we have learned to live well ourselves."

                --Cesar Chavez, UNITED FARM WORKERS, from a 12/26/90 letter to ACTION FOR ANIMALS

spcaLA asks animal welfare advocates to contact their Council Members, see below,  in support of the ban. A successful rodeo ban would add Los Angeles to a growing list of cities and countries like San Francisco and Pasadena, as well as Germany, the Netherlands and Brazil, where rodeo has been outlawed.

Council District 1 – Councilmember Eunisses Hernandez, Councilmember.Hernandez@lacity.org, 213-473-7001

Council District 2 – Councilmember Paul Krekorian, Councilmember.Krekorian@lacity.org, 213-473-7002 

Council District 3 – Councilmember Bob Blumenfield, Councilmember.Blumenfield@lacity.org, 213-473-7003 

Council District 4 – Councilmember Nithya Raman, Councilmember.Raman@lacity.org, 213-473-7004 

Council District 5 – Councilmember Katy Yaroslavsky, Councilmember.Yaroslavsky@lacity.org, 213-473-7005

Council District 6 – Councilmember Imelda Padilla, Councilmember.Padilla@lacity.org, 213-473-7006 

Council District 7 – Councilmember Monica Rodriguez, Councilmember.Rodriguez@lacity.org, 213-473-7007 

Council District 8 – Councilmember Marqueece Harris-Dawson, Councilmember.Harris-Dawson@lacity.org, 213-473-7008

 Council District 9 – Councilmember Curren D. Price, Jr., Councilmember.Price@lacity.org, 213-473-7009 

Council District 10 – Councilmember Heather Hutt, Councilmember.Hutt@lacity.org, 213-473-7010 

Council District 11 – Councilmember Traci Park, Councilmember.Park@lacity.org, 213-473-7011 

Council District 12 – Councilmember John Lee, Councilmember.Lee@lacity.org, 213-473-7012 

Council District 13 – Councilmember Hugo Soto-Martinez, Councilmember.Soto-Martinez@lacity.org, 213-473-7013 

Council District 14 – Councilmember Kevin de León, councilmember.kevindeleon@lacity.org, 213-473-7014 

Council District 15 – Councilmember Tim McOsker, Councilmember.McOsker@lacity.org, 213-473-7015

 

Desecrated longhorn steer found in Oklahoma in advance of Oklahoma state vs. Texas Longhorns game

In a horrific and unsettling turn of events, the body of a desecrated longhorn steer was discovered this morning on the front steps of an Oklahoma State University fraternity in Stillwater, OK. As disturbing images of the steer circulate, Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Los Angeles (spcaLA) condemns these acts and calls for a thorough investigation by the police department, the University’s Office of Student Support and Conduct, and the National Interfraternity Council (IFC) so that there are meaningful consequences for those responsible.

Many are speculating that this disgusting act of animal cruelty and disrespect for living beings may be in response to an upcoming football game between OSU and The University of Texas. UT’s mascot is a longhorn steer.

Regardless if this is because of a football game, “Texas Hate Week” or something more nefarious, this is a criminal act and must not be brushed aside.

Also – do we need a “hate week’? Do we need institutionalized vandalism?

There is only 1 correct answer….

Donate SMART, support LOCAL CHARITIES, and create HEALTHY communities

As we are again coming upon the busiest fund-raising season of the year, I urge you to donate locally. Local papers are again full of advertisements from out-of-state animal charities who do not inform you that they are taking your funds which you donated to help local animals, and using them out of state as they wish.

How many of you reading this did not know that the aspca is not a national umbrella organization that funnels contributions back to other states and communities by zip code as do actual national charities? How many of you would donate to a New York organization if you knew it was neither your local spca who responds to your needs and protects your animals, nor even affiliated with your local spca? Based upon angry calls we receive from donors that feel duped, I would say many of you!

spcas throughout the country are individual legal entities and not chapters of any mother organization. Yet aspca spends tens of millions of dollars annually on television, full page ads and other fundraising outlets which omit that significant fact. If you knew that fact and intended to donate there – ok. But – what if you didn't?  How do you feel about the fact that your hard-earned funds meant for your local animal shelter were instead spent in New York to support expenses of a New York organization.  A CBS news expose' discussed some of these issues. 

Donors everywhere often feel cheated and upset to learn that they donated to the wrong organization and that their gifts neither contributed to programs nor helped needy pets in their own communities. What would happen to your spcaLA and to our vulnerable populations here if a lot of generous people made that mistake?

It is essential for you, your lawyers and estate planners to research reputable existing charities and locate those that serve the constituency and community that you wish to help. Determine if that charity provides the specific service that you wish to fund in the place you wish to fund it. Only then should you donate. Frequently, your local charity may also be providing international relief as well or is collaborating with one that is which obviates the need to seek another charity.

Giving locally also helps to strengthen the community in which you live by creating jobs, bolstering the economy and enabling the community to thrive. Stronger communities result in stronger cities, states and countries. In other words, our ability to help others improves with our own increased strength and solvency. It is especially true where the philanthropic entities are filling gaps left by the government and the for-profit sector. If the reputable local nonprofits fail - there will be no relief for their dependent, human or otherwise.

Charity begins at home. It is only when we stand strong that we can lift others.

 

SUPREME COURT SIDES WITH CALIFORNIA AND UPHOLDS PROPOSITION 12!

Prop 12 ballot photo 

In 2018, California voters passed Prop 12 which banned the sale of pork products inside California, even when produced outside the state of California if the sellers did not comply with California husbandry standards and if those outside sellers knew or should have known that the meat came from a breeding pig that was confined in a cruel manner. This was, of course challenged by The National Pork Producers Council and the American Farm Bureau Federation. The Supreme Court agreed with california.

California voters were determined to lead the way for the nation to improve conditions for all animals regardless of their classification of wild or domestic, or their alleged purpose i.e. food, pet or entertainment. In fact, in 2022 Californians enacted Senate Bill 1029, a law that recognizes the premise that human, animal and environmental health are all interdependent and connected. In other words, keeping animals, humans and the environment healthy is necessary to keep each and all of us healthy. SB 1029 requires the creation of a one health program that establishes interagency and interdisciplinary coordination to ultimately do just that.

Although the Supreme Court was more focused on interstate commerce, preemption and other constitutional issues, it unknowingly gave another nod to Californians who understand that if we are humane to animals and keep them healthy, they will do the same for us.

There are still miles to go until we are there. But we will
get there one roadblock at a time.

Dog and cat bill of rights is nothing of the sort

Why are animal welfare groups, including California Animal Welfare Association (the California 

A famous shelter supporter/adopter

membership entity that represents both private and public shelters) opposed to California Assembly Bill 1881, (AB 1881) the so called dog and cat bill of rights? 

Because this bill is hypocritical and nothing of the sort. Besides being an insult to California’s animal shelters, rescues, and adopters. It’s an ignorant and disgruntled statement by our legislature that shelters and rescues are doing a poor job educating adopters and that our adopters are ill-prepared and have bad intentions. 

Here's the issue. 

Those of us in the animal welfare field want all animals to enjoy a respectful, humane and good quality of life. This bill only cares about dogs and cats. 

Shelters send the fewest animals into the public square for adoption. Breeders, pet stores, veterinary offices, private sellers, puppy mills and so on are not included in the bill. In fact, it is punitive, via fine, against shelters and rescue groups only. 

Are those dogs and cats not worthy of inclusion?

Shelter and rescue professionals have been and are committed to the sheltering, care, reunification, and adoption of animals that come to us for care. spcaLA has been caring for animals since 1877! In fact, the number of animals coming into shelters has dramatically decreased nationally because of our collective educational programs, adoption counseling and aid to adopters.

As stated in California Animal Welfare Association's an opposition letter, "this bill is designed to be punitive and specifically targets shelters and there is really no justification in doing so. This bill does not solve a problem. The sponsor of this bill thinks that “bad” people are adopting animals from shelters, behaving irresponsibly, and then returning them. There is no data to support this". The document goes on to say that "the sponsors of this bill allege that our sheltering professionals are not properly counseling or communicating with adopters about the expectations to provide quality care. As a result, the state must step in and provide us with a notice to post in our facilities".  Again, not true and insulting.

Even if the sponsor's assertions are true, which they are not, does any rational person think that posting a flyer to a wall solves the problem, and that punishing the shelter as opposed to those that actually don't care for their pets properly accomplishes anything?

If you ask me, I think this ridiculous bill, if passed, would signal that all the other animals in the shelter, (horses, rabbits, pigs, birds, pocket pets, etc., who need extra special adoption counseling would require none at all. 

Silly - No?

RIP SHOOTING VICTIMS

optimism

Guns can be both defensive and offensive, used for war or to protect the peace, automatic or a six shooter, and, definitely a thing that must be managed safely, for a purpose, and one that should be placed in the hands of appropriately trained users who understand, respect, and are mindful of their actions. There is no one fix that will prevent mass killings and out of control gun violence, but there are multiple simultaneous approaches that can surround the issue to stop the violence before it starts. First, we must legislate the rules by which guns can be obtained and used. Second, we must provide the training to identify predictor issues, and third, we must offer sufficient resources to intervene effectively and early. It must be a multi-pronged, multidisciplinary solution, with both general mandates and customized provisions as well. 

Besides the enactment of intelligent legislation, it is imperative to examine all the possible factors that can contribute to shooting tragedies and that can provide clues to prevent them from happening at all.

In other words, the answer to the question "why".

Identifying and examining the root causes of violence, whether attributed to mental illness, bullying, random circumstances of nature and nurture, is not enough. We must learn to identify the external manifestations of such a problem so that they may be recognized, studied, and dealt with as early as possible. There are glaring symptoms and tangible early warning signs of future violent behavior that can be detected now and successfully treated with early intervention - sometimes as early as pre-school age.

In other words, the answer to the question "did I miss something"?

 According to the FBI, abnormal behaviors such as pyromania, enuresis (excessive bed-wetting), animal cruelty and other acts demonstrating a lack of empathy, have been credited as precursors to committing future violent acts. Isolation, loneliness, radicalization are other factors.  Some behaviors such as deriving pleasure from causing an animal pain can be seen even in very young children. As most children are not born violent, (true sociopaths notwithstanding) such behavior towards an animal is abnormal and indicative of a problem, which if not addressed can deepen and escalate until the cry out for attention results in a tragedy that can impact many lives. 

In other words "you are not seeing or hearing me".

Both recent mass shooters (the supermarket inBuffalo and the school in Texas) had instances of animal cruelty in their pasts. I would never say animal cruelty is the only factor or manifestation of a serious issue that is the ultimate answer to all the questions. Nor would I suggest that had this one behavior been addressed and examined early on there would be no tragedy. I am saying, that the more signals, clues, acting out, or abnormal behavior that is recognized as problematic, the earlier we can intervene and hopefully help that individual thereby saving others as well. 

Teachers, parents, social workers, friends and others in contact with our youth must be trained to recognize the symptoms. If you see something, say something.

In other words, the answer to the question "could I have done something to stop it"?

I can’t tell you how often I am told by a parent when informed that their son or daughter committed an act of animal cruelty - “It’s just a dog. You should be happy it’s not a person.” "Boys will be boys". "I wish I had known my child was in pain..." I wish my kids told me."

 My response - they just told you. Now let's find help before it is too late.

Again, the earlier the warning signs are recognized, the greater the chances of successful intervention, behavior modification and the abatement of future violent behavior.

In other words, "we did everything we could to protect our community". 

 

spcaLA (not affiliated with any other spca as there is no national/umbrella spca) has a series of core programs designed to intervene and prevent animal abuse as well as to deter violence towards people. They comprise a court mandated alternative sentencing course for juvenile offenders convicted of bullying, animal abuse or other violent crimes, an internationally acclaimed "at risk" youth program where schools target certain students to participate in the program, and one assisting victims of domestic violence and their pets where immediate help is mandated.  Check spcaLA.com for details.

 

 

Just Watch the Movie!

 courtesy wikimedia commons

The film "Dog" stars, along with the human actors, a Belgian Malinois character named Lulu. 

I am terrified that shelters everywhere will be inundated with these dogs who will 

be bred and inbred in order to satisfy consumer demand. We need only look recently at the fate of Dalmatians and Huskies to reasonably expect a surge of 

Belgian Malinois. 

It is important to remember that movie dogs are highly trained actors. Often, as in this case, the dog actor that you see is a group effort by more than one dog.  Lulu is 3 dogs!  A dog that is purchased, adopted or even responsibly bred will not act like the one in the movie. In fact, the actual animal actor will not behave that way either unless the training regimen continues to be reinforced. 

A Belgian Malinois, though adorable, smart and loyal, can also be aggressive and destructive if not stimulated properly. They are often used for police and military work as they need to focus on jobs and use their natural aggressive traits safely and productively. They are not for everyone and not for every family. Unscrupulous breeders will, through poor breeding, make matters worse and the dogs less adoptable. 

The result will be that the dogs will be turned into shelters for care, and possible suitable safe placement.

Can we just agree to watch the movie and explain to our children that the dog is a working movie actor and that we need a pet that is best for our families? I think we can... 

Hairless French Bulldogs! What could go wrong?

It seems that a hairless french bulldogs is now a new designer dog. This is another example of a deranged need to breed and crossbreed weird dogs for unsubstantiated reasons, (allergy) and for the shock value. 

There are already so many medical and behavioral issues that result from poor breeding, inbreeding and crossbreeding inbred and overbred dogs that cause heartbreak and suffering to people and pets alike, that now adding hairless creates new risks and compounds old ones.

A dogs' natural hair coat helps regulate his or her temperature. The hair keeps the dog warm in the winter and cool in the summer. The skin of a hairless dog can become sunburned, can become cracked and infected if too dry and can be easily injured or scratched. 

We have got to stop creating a demand for designer dogs. Until we do the unscrupulous breeders and con artists will make more, and more, and more. How much harm are we willing to inflict on our dogs?

A Horse, a Princess, and a Fashion Show Runway !

https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:
Kangaroo_Boxing_sideshow_poster.jpg

A princess, riding a horse was featured trotting around a Chanel fashion show runway in Paris.

Is it a lack of imagination? An uncreative marketing team? A cry for attention? Or what??

Let us assume that the horse was treated well, not sedated, accustomed to crowds and not terrified of trotting on a fashion runway, (which may or may not have stairs), in an indoor space with music - should we do this? Is this alright? Because someone can make the horse do this - should they? Should the lack of illegality make it right? 

When all else fails and the muse deserts, the default idea still seems to be an animal act. A sideshow attraction that suggests an uninspired main event with no draw. Was the beautiful princess not enough? Were Chanel fashions not enough?

Our community has evolved passed this. Consumers are saying no to circuses, mammal water parks, real animals in the movies, red painted elephants, pink donkeys and live fish in keychains to name a few. Yet, in 2022 we see a horse trotting around a fashion show runway.

Is this right? I think not. 

The power to exploit members of a vulnerable class must include the courage to not do so, and a refusal to encourage those who do. 

What do you think? 

New emotional support dog anti-fraud law signed

"Emotional support dog stare down" by mirsasha
 is licensed under CC BY-NC-ND 2.0

This is not the first time that I have talked with you about calling every dog an emotional support dog so that they are given access everywhere and identifying all sorts of animals as service animals, peacocks, squirrels etc., so that they can accompany people on airplanes, restaurants and the like.  This practice has resulted in elimination of many animals from the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), prohibitions of pets on public transportation, housing and other places. 

Personally, I think every pet, be it dog or tarantula, provides emotional support to the humans that love him or her, but, legally, that is not the case. 

Now, a new emotional support dog anti-fraud law, Assembly Bill 468, was signed into law this fall. This law will, among other things require that written notice be provided to a buyer that specifically distinguishes an emotional support dog from guide, signal, and service dogs. A person selling ID, vests and other accessories will also be required to provide such written notice. Finally, for those purchasing doctor notes to assert that their dog is an emotional support dog, the law prohibits health care practitioners from doing so, among other things, unless

 "the health care practitioner complies with specified requirements, including holding a valid license, establishing a client-provider relationship with the individual for at least 30 days prior to providing the documentation, and completing a clinical evaluation of the individual regarding the need for an emotional support dog." 

Penalties for violating this law can be both civil and criminal.

So please, let's keep the field clear and the airline seats available
for those with legitimate needs who need the protection of state and federal laws, and don't insist that loving your dog is a disability.

Ivermectin is for ANIMALS - and not the human kind

I know that we always remind you that some people foods and medicines should not be shared with your pets as they can be toxic or cause harm to their health and well-being. 

Today I have to tell you to not take your pet's heartworm pills to self-treat for COVID-19 or any other human illness. Ivermectin, the ingredient found in assorted animal deworming medication is toxic to humans and can be fatal. 

The American Medical Association (AMA), American Pharmacists Association (APhA), and American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP) strongly oppose the ordering, prescribing, or dispensing of Ivermectin to prevent or treat COVID-19 outside of a clinical trial, usually one involving parasites. The FDA Center for Veterinary Medicine has issued similar warnings.

Please, if you feel ill please see your medical doctor, not your veterinarian, your cattle store clerk or your Facebook feed.

We need you to be well and to thrive.

The Puppies Assisting Wounded Servicemembers (PAWS) for Veterans Therapy Act is now law!

 

Photo courtesy of spcaLA

It has long been known that veterans can benefit from a bona fide service dog to assist them to cope with injuries, PTSD, suicidal impulses and an array of emotional and psychological needs. Additionally, they, as well as the rest of the population can be helped by the unconditional love of a family pet. Unfortunately, recognizing this need and sometimes the idea of any pet on a military base has been dismissed and resisted by those in charge.

For many years now spcaLA has worked with assorted veteran's groups to speak out, to offer pets, and to do what we can to provide solace and comfort to our veterans with our dogs. 

FINALLY, on August 25th, 2021, President Biden has signed  H.R. 1448 and H.R. 3642 the Puppies Assisting Wounded Servicemembers (PAWS) for Veterans Therapy Act into law. This law will allow veterans to train and work with potential service dogs to address their particular issues and then to adopt the dogs! 

Thanking veterans for their service is a nice gesture, addressing their needs upon return for service is a must do.

New requirements if importing dogs for resale from ASF regions - getting the message?

"Best Friends" by HKmPUA is licensed under CC BY-NC-SA 2.0

A new federal order, issued August 6, 2021, will apply additional stringent requirements regarding the importation of dogs for resale into the United States from countries where African Swine Fever (ASF) exists or is believed to exist. Among other things, importers will have to attest in writing that certain protocols regarding the bedding, crating, iso-chipping, and others have been complied with. 

The USDA website states: 

    "ASF is found in countries around the world, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa. More recently, it has spread through China, Mongolia and Vietnam, as well as within parts of the European Union. It has never been found in the United States – and we want to keep it that way."

The disease is deadly, highly contagious to domestic and feral swine, not to humans, and it is not a food safety issue. There is no treatment for or vaccine against this disease - only mass euthanasia of an infected population. The danger is that the imported dogs for resale into the United States could introduce this disease into our population, to our pet pigs, and farms.

The list of regions in the world affected by ASF can be found here. I think it is important to point out that there is a lot of overlap between the puppy mill locations exporting designer dogs and trendy pure breeds into the U.S., and the locations where ASF exists, as well as an overlap to the unchecked rabies regions from which dog importations have recently been banned by the CDC as well! 

This should be a wake up alarm to those ordering French Bulldogs from Ukraine (both lists), and others, that we global residents of the world must be mindful of
the fact that the simple act of clicking on the internet to import a dog into this country, can create the real hardship of fighting off stowaway viruses and organisms that can cause death and sorrow for us all.

How about we don't convert dog shipping crates into Pandora's boxes and adopt from an spca or humane society here at home.

CDC stops the importation of dogs from 100 + countries with high risk of rabies

Conrad at spcaLA

Kudos to CDC! Commencing on July 14th, CDC is suspending the importation of dogs from countries with high risk of rabies until further notice, whether or not the reason is for-profit, "rescue" or a personal pet. See the details and list of countries here.

It is not a new story. Planes full of French Bulldog puppies from Ukraine landed in LAX and Toronto, a plane of French Bulldog puppies from Jordan landed in Chicago, and just last week - Yorkie puppies from Ukraine landed at LAX. Again, spcaLA responds to assist these babies.

 What is always true is that these puppies will not be healthy nor will their age, breed and medical record match their entry paper work. What is also true is whether the motive for this is profit, or a misguided attempt by those proclaiming themselves as "rescuers", the puppies will suffer, and will often spread diseases, (e.g. rabies, canine influenza, heartworm) to local dogs and in the case of rabies - to people as well. 

The bottom line is that whether or not intentions are good or bad, the dogs always lose.

Look at Conrad, a Yorkie who landed at LAX on June 8th and ultimately turned over to spcaLA by CDC. He presented with several maladies including neurological symptoms. He is estimated to be between 5-6 weeks old and under 2 pounds. (NOT the 20 weeks listed on his paperwork and absolutely NOT vaccinated against rabies,) He further spent a week in the hospital and is now under our care. Conrad is still fighting for his life.

Would you send a sick 6 week old puppy, unvaccinated, unweaned, seizing and unable to eat halfway around the world in a crate/carrier? This is the part people don't see when they click on a site and order such a designer dog. 

spcaLA participates in a multi-agency task force to deal with these issues. But no amount of enforcement can stop this global puppy enterprise. So for now, CDC is taking action. Effective July 14th the importation of dogs from 100+ countries with high risk of rabies will go into effect until further notice.

Please stop creating a demand for these dogs and adopt dogs already here. 

Enough! Please!

P.S. Strong leadership, collaboration, and swift action on the parts of the CDC, the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health, and spcaLA afforded Conrad a second chance at life, rather than his having to be sent back to Ukraine or euthanized. However, the little pup has a long road to go. He is currently under medical supervision, and it could be at least two months before Conrad is available for adoption. To donate to his care and that of other spcaLA shelter pets, visit spcaLA.com.

So you think you had a bad day!

Imagine coming home to discover 15 to 20 condors having a rave at your house! This is exactly what a woman in Tehachapi came upon when returning home from a weekend away. They were all over her porch, roof and lawn. 

The condors, trashed her deck, kicked over lawn items, chewed up screens and, of course, pooped everywhere. When the party was over they retreated to her trees - but remained at the house.

These huge beautiful endangered birds have suffered the consequences of losing their habitat to commercial development and have slowly been released back into the wild. Why they decided to congregate in such a large group at one house is a mystery, and one which may never be solved. 

Was this a warning that they want their land back? A prom? A search for food as restaurants have been closed? 

Maybe Tippi Hedren knows!!

"Vermilion Cliffs National Monument - Condor Viewing Site" by BLMArizona is marked with CC PDM 1.0  (photo credit)

Not to be Morbid - but What if our Pets Outlive Us?

 Not to be morbid - but what if we outlive our pets?

Pets are part of the family, and, can be addressed in an estate plan.  California recognizes the unusual status of pets, as beyond their legal designation as property, by permitting them to be beneficiaries of a trust and cared for should the owner die or become incapacitated.  An estate planning attorney will be able to analyze your needs and advise you accordingly. I ask only that you think this through so that your pets are protected and that you have peace of mind.

spcaLA has a pet re-homing program into which you can enroll in advance and leave your pets to us through your will or trust. There are similar programs around the country. If you are leaving your pets to a sanctuary, where your pet will live out his or her life, please investigate first to ensure that your pet will have a good quality of life at that location. If you are choosing to set up a pet trust, provide as much detail as possible as to the care, feeding, stimulation, needs and habits of your pet including euthanasia issues and disposal of remains. These instructions will make the task easier for the caretaker and trustee as well as ensuring continuity for your pet who will be grieving and dealing with change. They are also essential even if you are leaving your pet with a relative or friend through a traditional will. Please note that when dealing with exotic pets like birds, tortoises, coy etc. you must plan for their life spans which can be much longer than that of humans!  A huge estate or great personal wealth is not required to provide for your pets - just thought and attention to the details.

Finally, an emergency plan is essential to cover the event of an accident or gap between death and when it is discovered that there are pets in need. Details of this plan must be shared to all relevant parties and attached to your estate planning documents and important papers so your pets will be immediately retrieved. 

Planning in advance will make you less dependent on the kindness of strangers, will truly fulfill your pledge to care for your pet for the pets' life and will provide you with the peace of mind of a job well done.

As long as you are in a planning mode - please also consider pet prenups in case of divorce or separation. California Law considers the "best interest of the pet" when the issue is litigated. But - why wait until then and rely on a judge to decide.

Take care, stay well and be prepared.

Sick Puppy Peddler Pleads In Superior Court Today

The world is full of people who prey on others for money. In this case, it was at the expense of the suffering of helpless puppies and heartbroken families left with nothing but veterinary bills and tears. Today justice was served, but this was just one person exploiting vulnerable puppies and those who would offer them homes and love. Please, let us not create a demand for these "sick puppy peddlers" by buying these dogs from the internet and social media.

If we don't create the demand - there will be no profits for the suppliers.

Following a 2 year investigation, Gustavo Gonzales (DOB 4/1/93),  who was charged with 73 felony and misdemeanor criminal counts, including, burglary, fraud, theft and animal cruelty, for selling sick puppies, pleaded no contest  to one count of Penal Code § 597.4 in Superior Court today (Case# BA478369). He was arrested on June 6, 2019, and has since been in custody.

Gonzalez advertised on social media and met potential buyers at public locations or at his home. To conceal his identity, Gonzalez used 15 different fictitious names and 40 different telephone numbers via apps and burner phones.

spcaLA investigators identified 93 families victimized by Gonzalez. Of the 99 puppies sold to unwitting customers, 57 died shortly after purchase. In total, 93 families paid Gonzalez $68,070 for puppies and spent $176,803 in veterinary bills to save the puppies, most to no avail.

In addition he to serving 623 days in custody, Gonzalez is sentenced to one year probation; one year of counseling for animal cruelty under Penal Code § 597(h); and is prohibited from owning or being around any animals for the next 10 years under Penal Code § 597.9. Gonzalez is subject to search and seizure conditions by Animal Control Officers or spcaLA Investigators, and is prohibited from engaging in any employment or business without proper licensing. He is also required to pay restitution to 63 of his victims as well as spcaLA for a total of $203,000. 

He is further ordered to stay away from all victims and witnesses in this case.

“The pets that we bring into our homes become a beloved part of our family. Trying to sell sick puppies to unsuspecting people is just plain wrong,” District Attorney Gascón said. “That’s why it’s so important to use established animal shelters or pet adoption agencies so that we avoid becoming victims and also help end the market for unscrupulous illegal dog breeders.”

Thank you to, Los Angeles County Department of Consumer and Business Affairs (DCBA), the District Attorney’s Office Bureau of Investigation and the Downey Police Department.

We must all collaborate to stop these cases from occurring. That means you too!

Adopt from a shelter!

 

 

 

Yes - a POEM - Happy Holidays and stay well!

 In animal shelters worldwide, providing solace to pets,

Are dogs, cats, pigs and more awaiting the BEST.

 They roll, high-five, and socialize,

Mani-pedis they endure,

All the while maintaining one beautiful eye on the door.

 Good listeners galore, companionship plus more,

Commiserations on any topic,

They will provide love where none can top it.

 Yet here they sit, play, and twirl awaiting the BEST.

The BEST news in the world – they are getting adopted,

With the BEST families, friends, food and toys allotted.

 They will love you the BEST – and if you love in return-

You will ace the mensch test and a good deed you will earn.

 I submit to you, loving a shelter pet is right.

Happy holidays to all –

Keep up the good fight.

Covid Detection Dogs Working in Finland Airport

 I have written before how dogs were being trained to detect Covid-19 in people - well check this out:

Finland has already begun a pilot program using Covid detection dogs at airports! Passengers are asked to wipe their skin with a cloth which is then placed in a jar. The jar is then brought to the dog (kept separate from the people) who sniffs and then alerts if specimen is positive. It takes less than a minute to get results.

I have been keeping an eye on this story. Though the pilot program is due to end later in December the results are promising. MedicalExpress.com is reporting that "Preliminary experiments in the first major wave of infections earlier in the year suggested the dogs can detect the virus with close to 100 percent accuracy, up to five days earlier than a PCR test." 

Many dogs that detect drugs, seizures, explosives, cancer and other things are very often found at shelters or through people who have enrolled in recreational training classes, such as Fun Nose, offered by spcaLA, and discover that they have a dog that is good at this. 

Keep in mind that animal shelters across the country are full of geniuses and gems. With their human companions - anything is possible.