Heat Wave Across the United States

MSNBC reports that 29 states, including New York, are under a heat advisory. The heat wave is affecting states across the entire country and has thus far claimed 22 human lives. This morning at 7 a.m. in New York, temperatures had already reached 94 degrees F, and temperatures have already hit 100 degrees F.

Those who must go out to work or take care of urgent errands should have water with them; everyone should keep hydrated. And those with pets, please, leave them indoors today. If you must walk them outside so they can relieve themselves, make sure to keep walks short. Get them back indoors and into air conditioning. Make sure to give them fresh cold water and dump some ice cubes in it as often as your schedule permits.

Under no circumstances take them along with you on longer errands. Avoid leaving them tied outside--whether in your yard or outside a store while you run errands (you take longer than you think). And under no circumstances leave them in a car by themselves, even with the window cracked. It takes between 10 and 15 minutes for them to succumb to the heat in a car--and that's a generous estimate. Never leave your pet alone in a car. Ever. Not for a quick second. Not for five minutes. Never. Even if you've done it before and nothing bad happened. Use common sense. You've read the tragic stories, right? Don't take a chance. If you want to take a chance, play the Lotto. The only thing you'll lose there is a dollar.

Be safe and stay hydrated!

Your friends at Training Humans

No Pet Left Behind

A dear friend of Training Humans, guest blogger Jay Cook-Attig has written an excellent piece on how to prepare yourself to evacuate your home with your animal in the event of a natural disaster or other such emergency. Over the course of the summer, some points made in her blog will be highlighted in blogs focusing on smaller-scale emergencies, so please look out for those in the next few weeks. 


Training Humans invites you to read on, and thanks Jay for taking the time to keep us all informed. We ask you to read it and pass it on. 

“If found, please call…”

The worn leather collar was cracked and caked with mud and the brass tag bolted on to it was scratched and faded. For a split second, I thought, “We should call…”

And then I realized that this collar, this dog, had passed through multiple rescue agencies, been handled by dozens of people in multiple states, and had travelled hundreds of miles to land in my hands. I wasn’t the first to have this thought. And I wasn’t the first to realize there was no person to call. There probably wasn’t even a home left for him, let alone a phone that would be answered.

This worn-out hound, and his three pack mates along with the ten other dogs and fifteen cats my shelter had brought back in our mobile surgical van, had been left behind when his owners fled the wrath we would all later know as Katrina.

I had been working at the shelter first as a volunteer and then as a part-time kennel staffer and trainer for a few years when Katrina rolled through and changed how I viewed disaster and preparedness. I, like many other pet owners, had always said, “Over my dead body will my pets be left behind,” but I said it from the privileged position of living in an area where natural disasters are few and far between. Katrina, and her aftermath, made me rethink my actions and what I would do if I were challenged with having to leave my home in the face of a life-changing event.

As I write this, I can look down into my emergency bag. It is woefully out-of-date and needs to be restocked. The recent tornadoes in Alabama and Missouri and the reports from American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) and the Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) regarding animal rescue efforts in those areas have made me all too aware that I should be prepared. But Delaware is a state of few extremes when it comes to weather and I become complacent and think, “It won’t happen here,” and go my merry way.

However, emergency situations need not necessarily be catastrophic events such as tornadoes or hurricanes. A fire at the neighbor’s house, a gas leak, a tree through your roof – all of those situations may require you to leave your home quickly with little time to prepare or gather what you need. We all know to grab our valuables and our wallets, but what about our pets? Would you be prepared to feed and, if applicable, medicate your animal if you had to evacuate your home with your animal in under 10 minutes?

The ASPCA and HSUS offer some simple steps we all can take in emergency situations to ensure we evacuate with our pets and anything your pet needs to survive, including food, clean water, and any medication it may be taking:

• Plan ahead. Consider the possible situations you may encounter that could leave your pet unattended (an emergency trip to the hospital; icy winter roads that prevent you from getting home; road emergencies that leave you stuck in traffic; extended power outages while you are at work) and make contingency plans. No one can plan for these, so find a trusted neighbor to whom you can give a key and instruct them on your pets’ habits/behaviors so that in the event of an unforeseen emergency, you have a caregiver.
• Create a disaster supply kit/checklist. Your kit may vary, depending on the types of pets (and how many) you have in your home. Here’s a basic one to get your started:
• Food and water for at least five days for each pet, including bowls and a manual can opener (if applicable). Remember to rotate the food out of your bag when it is not in use (check the dates on canned food and dispose of dry food every two months). 
• Medications and medical records stored in a waterproof container and a first-aid kit. While full detailed medical records may be too voluminous to carry, always have your pets' up-to-date vaccination records. A note pertaining to any specific medical conditions and medication is also advisable. Note that many human first-aid medicines can be used on pets, but speak to your veterinarian about your first-aid kit. Include a two-week supply of any medications your pet(s) may be taking in the kit. 
• Cat litter box, litter box, garbage bags to collect all waste, and litter scoop. Aluminum roasting pans are a good alternative to heavy plastic litter pans. 
• Dawn dish detergent (in the event your pet is exposed to oil, grease, or contaminants) and disinfectant. 
• Strong leashes, harnesses, and/or carriers to transport pets safely and to ensure your pets cannot escape. The carriers should be large enough for the animal to stand comfortably, turn around, and lie down as they may be contained for long periods of time. Bring blankets and towels if at all possible--they can be used to cover carriers to help calm down a stressed-out animal. Tie-down stakes for dogs are also recommended, as this will enable you to give them exercise and keep them under a close eye. 
• Current photos and descriptions of your pets to help others identify them in case you and your pets become separated and to prove that they are yours. 
• Pet beds and toys, if you can easily take them, to reduce stress.
• Information about your pets' feeding schedules, medical conditions, behavioral problems, and the name and number of your veterinarian in case you have to board your pets or place them in foster care. 
• NOTE: There are special considerations to be made for birds, reptiles, and small animals. Talk with your veterinarian or visit the ASPCA's website for their discussion of special considerations regarding these kinds of pets. Some of the suggested items in the kit list, such as litter boxes and pet beds, are too cumbersome to carry with you in the event of a catastrophic emergency. Be realistic and do your best to keep a backpack filled with the basic necessities and be ready to get out, with your pet(s), fast.
• Find a safe place to stay. Talk to your friends and family and make arrangements for where you might stay in the event of an emergency. While federal law has changed and many shelters are now permitted to allow people to bring their animals into the shelters with them in the event of an emergency not all of them will do so. The HSUS recommends finding a pet-friendly hotel in your area that you can use as a Plan B option and provides the following websites to help you in that search:
• Bringfido.com
• Dogfriendly.com
• Doginmysuitcase.com
• Pet-friendly-hotels.net
• Pets-allowed-hotels.com
• Petswelcome.com
• Tripswithpets.com
• Make sure your pet is wearing identification. Microchipping and up-to-date identification tags are key to helping your pet return home to you in the event you are separated during an evacuation. If your pet is not currently microchipped, contact your local animal shelter – many provide low-cost microchipping and assist in the registration process.
• Most important, TAKE YOUR PET WITH YOU.

The single most important thing you can do to protect your pets is to take them with you when you evacuate. Animals left behind in a disaster can easily be injured, lost or killed. Animals left inside your home can escape through storm-damaged areas, such as broken windows. Animals turned loose to fend for themselves are likely to become victims of exposure, starvation, predators, contaminated food or water, or accidents. Leaving dogs tied or chained outside in a disaster is a death sentence. 

--Humane Society of the United States

Of the fourteen dogs that came through the door of our shelter in the months after Hurricane Katrina, seven were returned to their owners and the rest were adopted by families in the Delaware Valley. They were but a small fraction of the animals that were rescued and reunited with their families or rehomed through the amazing efforts of hundreds of rescue organizations around the country. That number is but a small fraction of those who were left behind to die either during or after the storm.


In the Metairie Cemetery in New Orleans, there is a monument to the animals lost to Katrina – it sits off in a far corner in a quiet green field that begs for a game of catch or a warm roll in the grass. It is a beautiful place and a fitting reminder that no one, neither human nor animal, should ever be left behind.

Jay Cook-Attig is a former member of the Association of Pet Dog Trainers and the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants. She served for several years as a trainer at a no-kill animal shelter in the Delaware Valley and was the owner of The Celtic Dog, LLC, specializing in training dogs at risk of being surrendered to shelters.


Sources: The Humane Society of the United States “Disaster Preparedness for Pets” (www.hsus.org)
American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals “Disaster Preparedness” (www.aspca.org)

Hot Time in the Town of New York

Perhaps it's not been hot enough to warrant air conditioners just yet, but New York has seen a few hot, steamy days in the high 70s and low 80s, with more heat expected over the holiday weekend that have prompted Training Humans to break out the fans. Monday's forecast promises a high of 86. And summer isn't even officially here yet. Did we mention we killed our first mosquito? Yeah, having a pet means dealing with lots of responsibility. But we know you can do it.

It's hot. Anyone who lives in an apartment knows how stuffy it can get in there, even with all the windows open. It's a box. It retains heat. And if you're uncomfortable, imagine that poor ball of fur. Say you're broke and you don't even have an air conditioner (hey, it happens). Perhaps it broke (when it rains it pours). You can't afford to buy one right now and you weren't expecting it to suddenly be steamy and humid quite this soon (that's New York for you). Lucky for you, the chain pharmacies, such as Rite Aid, have really decent fans for reasonably inexpensive prices. I got two of them for no more than $18 a pop, and both are running right now. One in my bedroom, and one in the living room, where I am hanging with the furballs.

It's important to stay properly hydrated, especially in this heat. Your pets are going to need lots of water; they get dehydrated faster than you think. So if your pet is on its own for many hours because of your schedule (and there are going to be days that you want to play after a long day at work), be sure to leave multiple bowls of fresh water, and throw in some ice cubes for good measure. As a matter of course you should wash their bowls daily because they do get slimy.

Unless you walk your cat (hey, you never know), this next tip is for dog owners who walk their dogs. You still need to do it, but as it gets hotter, depending on how flexible your schedule is or isn't, you might need to shorten walks significantly. Consider carrying fresh water with you at all times in a portable water bottle for dogs (available at pet supply stores for dogs of all sizes) for longer summertime walks.

Check the weather! Go to Weather.com, click on Weather Apps on the bar at the top of the screen, and click on Pet Care Advisor. Use the drop-down menus to answer each question, click on either the Yes or No to answer whether your pet is overweight, and enter your zip code and your pet's name (optional) and it takes you to a new screen (we filled one out for Atticus) that gives you an ideal window of when you should walk your dog. Again, if you have to walk your dog before and after work and those times are outside the window the tool gives you, you will at least know to make it quick walks.

Live in a nice house with a pool? Lucky you! But not so fast. Here is one instance where you want to treat your dog as if it were your child, which means: Never leave a dog near a pool unsupervised. Remarkably, not all dogs know how to swim. It's not an instinctive skill for all of them.

Grilling season means lighter fluid, matches, and the typical accoutrement that come with backyard barbecues. Some dogs (especially puppies) are chewers and they will try to eat anything. Be sure to keep your grilling supplies out of their reach. Save yourself the fright of having to race to an emergency animal hospital, and the risk of losing your furry pal--not to mention the potentially crippling expense.

And last but not least for now, Training Humans wishes to repeat: Never leave your pet alone in the car. Ever. Even for a quick second. Even with the window cracked. It will cook and die. We know we've said this before, but it truly does warrant repeating. Spread the word, and help us to fulfill our aim of not seeing any news articles about dogs dying inside hot cars.

Training Humans wishes you a happy and healthy summer. Please look for guest blogs coming soon with tips on what to do in case of emergencies and how to prepare yourself for natural disasters.

RIP, Sweet Lula

Training Humans was very sad to learn that Lula, the chubby chihuahua profiled in March 31's All in the Family passed away on Sunday, May 22. She had a fantastic family, both human and animal, who loved her dearly and provided her with a happy home. Lula leaves a hole in their hearts, and in mine. I never got to meet her in person, but stories of her silly antics never failed to warm my heart.

Rest in peace, little Lula. We will miss you, too.

It's Summertime and the Living Is Easy...

It may not feel that way for many New Yorkers, but with summer right around the corner some states are already seeing temperatures in the low 80s. The other day, while New York had a dreary, rainy day, it hit about 82 degrees in Philly.

It should go without saying, therefore, that as temperatures begin climbing, you need to make sure to keep your pet properly hydrated and safe. So check the weather report and leave your pets at home; do not take them in the car with you to run errands. Even if you leave the windows cracked and take a few minutes, cars get hot and dogs, no matter the size, overheat quickly. Unfortunately, there has already been at least one case this year of two pugs perishing in a car, with the window cracked, as their owner and a friend went shopping.

Leave your pet in an air-conditioned space. If doing so is impossible for you because of high electric bills, consider a fan, or try to leave your pet in an area that is properly ventilated. Provide your pet with plenty of water. You should give your pet fresh water often, and be sure to refresh as often as possible in the summer months. Add some ice cubes in there for good measure.

Chico's Story

Cheryl lives in Maine and has two dogs. An odd couple, in the eyes of some, they are a seven-year-old chihuahua named Peanut and a two-year-old pit bull-Labrador mix named Reid. Cheryl also has two cats, Tink and Tequila, ten and six, respectively, and both rescues.

Despite having a full house, and one that includes a chihuahua--a breed that tends to be yappy and neurotic and often misunderstood--Cheryl checks the list released daily by the New York Center for Animal Care and Control every single day and cross-posts profiles hoping to connect dogs in need with fosters and adopters.

When Cheryl saw Chico on the list, she jumped into action. A four-year-old white chihuahua, pictured above at the shelter, Chico was listed with two other chihuahuas, both of them seniors. A rescue group pulled the two older chihuahuas, but Chico remained despite people showing interest not only in fostering him but also adopting him--a lucky break that doesn't happen often.

Why? Chico earned a behavior rating of SEVERE for being aggressive from the Brooklyn branch of the New York Center for Animal Care and Control. People calling in expressing a desire to foster or adopt him were being turned away. The same dog that, according to the shelter, showed affection to both men and women was reportedly tense, highly nervous, and attempting to bite staffers who attempted to handle him. He had to be sedated to receive his rabies vaccine. Yup. Sounds like a frightened chihuahua to us.

When Cheryl called to say she wanted to adopt Chico, she was taking a leap of faith, if you will. She was making a huge assumption that his aggressiveness was simply the typical chihuahua response to being in a chaotic environment completely foreign to it. She was told by a NY CACC employee that she could not handle a dog like Chico. Cheryl did not give up. She argued her case, pointing to her experience in handling chihuahuas as well as to the conflicting information in the dog's write-up. When the second shelter employee turned her away, she turned to the rescue organizations.

Two rescues organizations were ready to take on Chico's case, and ultimately it was AmsterDog that managed to get through to the high-kill shelter and put a hold on Chico, saving his life. Arrangements were made to transport Chico to a foster in Connecticut that night. Cheryl drove from Maine to get him and bring him to his new home.

Training Humans asked Cheryl whether her hunch about Chico acting out because of his surroundings was correct. She says:

He is the sweetest mush ever. NOT aggressive and probably just afraid of the noise and scary men [shelter employees, including those who assess the dogs]. He gets along great with my two cats and two dogs.... They [the shelter employees] were wrong and [it is] so sad how many poor animals get PTS [put to sleep] for no reason!

Training Humans received photographs of Chico settling in to his new environment.

The city boy seems to have taken to life in the country splendidly.

Chihuahuas are nervous dogs, and often bark and attempt to bite when they feel threatened. They also tend to take to one owner and become very possessive and territorial. While not all chihuahuas should be painted with the same brush, Training Humans cautions people with small children against getting chihuahuas without doing their research first.

Even children with the best of intentions can be a little too rough on this small breed dog and make it feel threatened. Training Humans will be dedicating a blog post to this breed, especially in the wake of California's chihuahua epidemic. Please look for it soon.

For now, please enjoy these last two shots of Chico with his new pals.

Training Humans thanks Cheryl, AmsterDog, and the foster in Connecticut for not giving up on this beautiful pooch and wishes Cheryl and Chico the very best of luck!

A Gift from You and Patrick

Patrick the pit bull has become the face of hope for many animals. The story of abuse and gross neglect he suffered at the hands of his owner made headlines in New Jersey, where he was found, and quickly spread across the United States and even internationally. He remains in the care of the GSVS Pet Hospital in Tinton Falls, New Jersey, and is recovering splendidly. Patrick's story has helped launch a grassroots movement to highlight cases like his and lobby for tougher laws. But it doesn't stop there. Patrick's story has also inspired many to support their local shelters and rescue organizations. Training Humans has prepared a handy list of things you can do to help your local shelter or rescue, and you might not even have to spend much, or any!, money doing so. Read on.

But what can I do?

• Check that linen closet. See those blankets and towels taking up precious space that you KNOW you haven't used in ages? Stick them in a bag and take them to your local shelter or rescue organization. Live too far away from one? See if a friend will do it for you or if a volunteer can come pick stuff up from you.
• Check your closet or attic. Have spare kennels that you don't use anymore? Perhaps a crate that you haven't used in ages? Why let it collect dust and take up space (especially you New York tiny-apartment dwellers!), when you can take it to your local shelter or rescue organization. They can always use it, especially if you aren't!
• Want to donate but feel funny sending cash? No problem. Support local pet supply stores: buy a bag of kibble and some toys and take them over to your local shelter or rescue organization. One of the biggest expenses for shelters and rescues that house animals on premises is food. They will appreciate it.
• Donate money! You can donate via PayPal or with a major credit card. Be sure you are donating to a shelter or rescue directly. Training Humans has assembled a short list of rescue organizations that will appreciate the help. 
• Volunteer your time. Live close to a rescue or shelter? You can volunteer to walk the dogs and spend time with them. Offer to add to their assessment files by writing up profiles of the dogs with which you work. 
• Volunteer to foster a dog. Every rescue has different rules and time-limit specifications. If you are interested in fostering a dog and can offer it a warm, safe haven while a forever home is found for it, do it. Talk to a rescue, fill out an application, and save a life today. 
• Can't foster or adopt? No problem. Offer to print out and distribute flyers promoting rescues and shelters and soliciting fosters and make sure to pass them out in libraries, local businesses, and even your church if you go to one. Leave flyers in pet supply stores and veterinary offices. You can be their PR and marketing guru. 

Via one of the many Facebook pages created in his honor, Patrick is lending his name to an event taking place this weekend, encouraging people to buy some food and perhaps toys as well for local shelters and rescue groups in his name. It's called A Gift from Patrick Day. Training Humans encourages you to check out the event on the link provided and participating. 

There are countless shelters and rescue organizations in need. We have listed just a few shelters below for you and encourage you to check them out. 

• Sean Casey Animal Rescue, Brooklyn, NY. Sean and his pals rescue everything from dogs and cats to birds, turtles, rabbits, and snakes. We have linked you directly onto the donations page, but check out his site. He's always in need of newspaper, plastic bags, bleach, dish soap, paper towels, old pillow cases, and towels. Can you give money? Awesome! Can you adopt a pet? Even better!
• Our Best Friends Rescue, Valley Stream, NY. This takes you to their Facebook page where you can find information on many of the pets they have rescued and placed in foster homes. A few of their most recent rescues are special-needs animals. They took in Benny, a little white dog that should be 20 pounds and was only 8 when they got him. He's thriving and recovering. They also took in Babs, a deaf pit bull mix that spent the first year and a half of her life in a cage at a shelter. Look for their stories here on Training Humans in the near future. We love sharing the happy news! 
• AmsterDog, NY. Another New York rescue organization, these guys keep busy. If you can donate food, money, or time, they will greatly appreciate it.
• Rebound Hounds Rescue, NY.  Another awesome rescue organization, these gals are always looking for available fosters. Check out their site, put your page-maker skills to the test, and help distribute flyers promoting them and their need for fosters. 
• Posh Pets Rescue, NY. Check out their site and see what you can do to help. 

A special shout-out to two out-of-state rescues and friends of Training Humans:

• OC Chihuahua Rescue, California. This hard-working rescue is in the process of receiving its non-profit status. They network hard to place the staggering amounts of chihuahuas abandoned in California. We have linked you directly to their donations page (which plays awesome chihuahua-centric music that Training Humans' own Atticus enjoys wagging his tail to) and encourage you to give a little something. Every dollar helps. 
• SoCo Animal Rescue, Georgia. Friends of Training Humans, the humble and hard-working folks at SoCo suffered a tremendous loss over the weekend. A fire destroyed the home from which they ran their rescue. Thanks to the efforts of the fire department, only three animals perished of the more than 60 that were kept on the property. While they have found fosters and adopters for most of these animals, we encourage you to read their page and get to know them and, of course, consider making a donation. During this difficult time, it will be especially appreciated as they begin to rebuild. 

We will continue suggesting rescues and shelters to you. Did we leave one out that you particularly love? Let us know and we will welcome them into our growing network. 

Times Are Tough All Over

You just got laid off. Or you got evicted. Or you just took a pay cut. Or your landlord has decided to put in effect a strict, no-exceptions no-pet policy. In times of stress it's difficult enough to find a new job or a new home for yourself, let alone for a pet that you can no longer afford to keep.

Training Humans is not going to tell you to make your pet the number-one priority when you find yourself in any number of situations mentioned above. We get it. What we have done, however, is devised for you a handy Do's and Don'ts list so that you improve your pet's odds at finding a safe and happy new home.

Do:

• Contact Training Humans via the comments section in this blog or via our Facebook page (see link on the right of the page). Seriously.
• Network. You have Facebook? Twitter? Make a Facebook page for your pet and explain the situation and let people know you need to find it a new home. Be honest about your pet. What breed is it? How old is it? Is it housebroken? Why do you need to get rid of it? Tweet a link to that Facebook page and ask people to help you spread the word.
• Google. If your dog a senior? A pure breed? A mutt? Look up rescues that work specifically with seniors or the pure breed you have. Or ask Training Humans to do it. We know a bunch of rescues and are happy to help you find a good place for your pet.

Don't:

• Keep a pet you cannot afford to have and stop feeding it. 
• Leave the pet chained to a tree or fence hoping someone takes it.
• Set the dog loose in the street.
• Take the dog to a high-kill shelter.
• Wait until the day you are moving to try to find your pet a new home.

Remember, when you got your pet, you made yourself responsible for providing it with food, clean water, maintenance, and veterinary care. It certainly depends on you for its basic survival needs. 

If you find yourself in a situation where you cannot afford unexpected veterinary bills or provide it with its daily food requirements, reach out for help immediately. Do not wait. Contact Training Humans. We will help you find a humane solution. We will help you find a no-kill shelter or rescue organization that can help you. 

And don't lose heart. If your situation is temporary and you need a reprieve while you get back on your feet, work with a foster who will return your pet to you once you are stable enough to care for it properly again.

Now What?

So you are ready to adopt a new pet, or just did. Awesome! Congratulations! 


Training Humans has put together a handy little checklist of things you should buy for your new pet ideally before you get it, but definitely the moment you do. Trust us, you will need some of these things before you even set foot into your home with your new best bud. 

Essential Must-Buys for Cats

• litter box
• cat litter
• scooper (stainless steel models are easier to clean and longer lasting)
• bed
• hair brush
• scratching post
• toys
• bowls (at least 1 for water and 1 for food)
• food 
• collar
• tags
• kennel cab (for those trips to the veterinarian)

Some folks opt to use litter liners. Training Humans does not, but we do use Arm & Hammer Cat Litter Deodorizer, which we sprinkle into the box before filling it with fresh litter. If you want to minimize accidents, be sure to change the litter (full dump and change) at least once a week or at most twice a week. Training Humans also minimizes mess by putting the cat box in a nifty serving tray purchased from Crate and Barrel ages ago (on clearance). 

Essential Must-Buys for Dogs

• bed
• hair brush
• food
• bowls (at least 1 for water and 1 for food)
• harness
• collar
• tags
• leash
• pooper-scooper bags
• toys
• chews
• kennel cab
• wee wee pads (even if the dog's already housebroken)
• blanket
• crate (for crate-training purposes)

Keep in mind that some of these purchases are one-time only deals. Don't let either list overwhelm you. 

Did we miss something? Leave us a comment and we will update both lists. Training Humans will also be putting together a "maintenance and upkeep" list of sorts as well as a recommended reading list. Look for these lists in the next day or two.  

So You Want to Get a Dog...

Or a cat. 


Or both! 


Where do you start? You have very specific needs. And why shouldn't you? It's going to be your pet. Perhaps you grew up with a specific breed, so you really want to have one of those again. You don't have much free time, so it can't be a puppy or kitten or any type of high-maintenance pet. You want to have it for a long time, so seniors are out, too, as well as any special-needs or ill pets. It must be healthy. And it HAS to be a boy. Or a girl. 

So those shelters, where large numbers of dogs and cats wait for someone to foster or adopt them, are surely out of the question. They only have injured or sickly animals, and just a bunch of mixed breeds that are probably aggressive. Right? 

Wrong!

You'll be surprised to find pure breeds of all ages available at high-kill shelters. Many no-kill shelters also make available lists of dogs and cats looking for new best friends and forever homes via their Facebook pages, official websites, Petfinder.com, or any combination of those. Furthermore, even if you find your new best bud at a no-kill, you've helped a greater cause: you've freed up a space for that shelter to go and save one from a high-kill facility. 

Owners surrender their animals for all sorts of reasons: some move to places that don't allow pets, some are evicted, some have babies and have no time for their pets anymore, and some pass away. So there are many awesome animals available, and all you need to do is look for one. 

No time to go through lists? No problem! Training Humans wants to help you. We'll do the research for you! Simply leave us a comment on this blog or visit our Facebook page and leave us a message and we will put you in touch with a rescue organization or shelter that has the pet you are looking for. Be sure to check back here for tips on what to purchase in preparation for receiving a new pet into your household (we'll link to the relevant blog post once it's live). 

When adopting a new pet, you have to complete an application, and if you go through a rescue organization, they will follow up with you to make sure the dog or cat is doing nicely. Remember that sometimes these things don't work out, so if you decide the dog or cat you get is too much work or simply not for you, then please return it to the rescue group from where you got it. If you got the pet directly from a high-kill shelter (sans middle man) then please contact Training Humans and we will help you find a no-kill shelter. 

Training Humans wishes you the best of luck with your new pet.

All in the Family

Crystal, her husband, and their three daughters share a home with three dogs. There's Valentine, a 9-year-old miniature rat terrier; Lula, a 4-year-old chihuahua; and Adobe, a 2-year-old Doberman. The senior of the pack has been with Crystal the longest. She describes Valentine as the neurotic one who loves Crystal, Crystal's middle daughter, tennis balls, and pine cones.

Although the three dogs get along great, Crystal explains that Valentine is the loner. Exhibiting a classic case of lap-dog-itis, Valentine prefers to be held like a baby or to hide beneath pillow flaps and blankets.

Although Lula is apprehensive about Adobe's size, they often play together, chasing and stalking each other in the house and backyard. Valentine fetches only her coveted tennis balls and pine cones and is otherwise uninterested in joining the two younger dogs in play. 

You'd think that with three dogs, one of them a Doberman, sleeping arrangements would be a bit of a nightmare. But it's not. All three dogs sleep indoors. Adobe sleeps between Crystal and her husband and has his own blanket, which is referred to as the "woobie." Valentine sleeps with Crystal's middle daughter, and Lula sleeps with Crystal's oldest daughter. 

But what about food and water stations? Surely the little dogs, especially neurotic Valentine, get territorial with their food and water bowls, right? Wrong! Crystal seems to have lucked out immensely with these three. She tells Training Humans:  

Feeding areas were easy to sort out. The dog bowls are all lined up and each dog knows which bowl is theirs. Valentine will actually bring her bowl to you when it is time to eat. Because it's easier on their digestive systems, we feed them three times a day. None of the dogs has an issue with humans being near them while they're eating. Lula is sneaky; she likes to wait for Adobe to get distracted and walk away from his bowl and tries eating his food. And he will growl at her if he catches her doing it, but there's no real outward aggression.

Crystal emphasizes that repetition is key. She set the rules and established a daily routine for the three dogs. And the dogs eased into that routine and learned to cooperate with one another. 

Toys are another matter. Because Adobe is so strong, he can easily chew apart toys, even tennis balls and Kongs. Of course this means he eats them. Therefore, Crystal limits the mischievous Doberman to rope toys and tugs. The other two dogs' toys are off limits. Don't think Adobe is the only troublemaker, though.

Lula prefers plush toys because she enjoys shaking them. Since her toys are off limits to Adobe, however, they are kept upstairs. So when Lula finds herself downstairs and really wants to shake something, she'll sneak away with one of Adobe's ropes. And that's not all. Lula waits until Adobe and Valentine aren't playing with their toys and then filches them, piles them in her little dog bed, and sits on them. 

Lula is the only one of the three that enjoys watching television. She particularly likes the Disney Channel, most notably the early morning cartoons. Adobe is more of an outdoors dog, so naturally he dabbles in rescue work. Adobe has found and brought home to Crystal a rare breed of woodpecker, a turtle that he sneaked into the house and cuddled with on the couch, and most recently, Walter. 

Walter fell out of his nest and Adobe answered the baby squirrel's cries in the family's backyard. Adobe brought him home, so Crystal had no choice but to nurse the baby squirrel and set him up in a cage, where he sleeps when he's not loose exploring or hanging out in the potted plant. 


How do the other dogs react to the little guy? Valentine seems mesmerized by him and stares at him in his cage for hours. Lula is only interested in picking up whatever food Walter drops. Poor Adobe simply wants to love his Walter and lick him, only to have Walter swat him on his nose.

Training Humans asked Crystal how she manages to give the three dogs equal time and whether it's impossible not to play favorites. 

We don't play favorites. We give them each one-on-one time doing the things we know each dog enjoys. We love them all equally and the dogs will snuggle with everyone. Sometimes it looks like I'm just a head on the sofa because they all lay on top of me, and it's a bit tricky to pet three dogs with two hands, but I manage. Adobe goes to the dog park, Valentine gets to go outside in the front yard and play kick the pine cone, and Lula likes playing tug and isn't shy about getting your attention when she's in the mood to play.

Crystal says she and the rest of her family are animal people. They don't see three dogs, a squirrel, and even a bird as too much to handle. Their living space accommodates all of them nicely. 

Layla and Dieter, Sitting in a Tree...

Monica considers herself a dog person, even though she hasn't always had a pet. She grew up with dogs in her household - had three of them, one after the other, with the last of them passing away 7 years ago. 

She has since moved in with her boyfriend and his 4½-year-old pug, Layla. Monica's boyfriend has had Layla since she was 6 months old, when he answered a local classified ad announcing her owner needed to surrender her. After years of Layla being the only household pooch, Monica decided it was time for her to have a dog to call her own and to keep Layla some company. She adopted 8-year-old Dieter - a long-haired dachshund - from Circle of Friends Animal Society.

The idea of bringing in a new dog into your home when you already have a dog can be a little daunting. As with most things regarding pet ownership, it requires time, patience, and an adjustment period. Things don't always work out, either. Chances are if you got your second dog from a shelter (which is always ideal) then the folks at the shelter will let you know to simply bring the dog back if this is the case. 

It wasn't the case with Layla and Dieter, however, which was happy news for Monica and her boyfriend. She took certain advisable steps when she first brought Dieter home. 

Here's what Monica had to say: 

I was very happy to see that Layla reacted well to Dieter upon meeting him. I think she was very curious about him because he's the polar opposite of her (she's a pug and he's a dachshund)! We first had them sniff each other on loose leashes, then relocated to an enclosed room off-leash so they could run around together. After that, we took them outside for a walk. A few more sniffs and licks to his face later, Layla seemed to accept Dieter as a potential addition to our family so we adopted him that day!

A month later, Layla and Dieter look like they are old familiars. 

Monica happily reports that they get along better and better each day. They nap together and have become huge cuddle-buddies. Neither dog gets territorial over food or toys. In fact, Dieter doesn't pay much attention to the toys Monica got for him.

Monica's lucky - the two pooches just took to each other in the most ideal possible way. But what about money? I asked Monica whether she felt a financial hit now that she'd taken in a second dog. 

I don't believe there has been much of a change financially caring for another dog. It was somewhat more expensive initially because we had to buy things for a new dog (crate, leash, collar, etc.) but thankfully you only buy those things once! Overall, there hasn't been a giant leap in costs.

Steps Monica took:

• She adopted Dieter from a rescue organization that pulls dogs from high-kill shelters. That opens up a space for another dog that the organization can pull out of harm's way.
• She didn't adopt him right away. She was honest about having a dog in the house who had been used to being top and only dog for 4 years and asked to introduce him to Layla the pug to see how things went.
• She leashed both dogs before bringing them into the same space together for the first time. Leashing them helps equalize the playing field, neutralizes it so that Layla does not feel like Dieter is trampling on her turf.
• She took them into another space and let them off leash while supervising them to see how they would behave after initial sniffing.
• She leashed them again and took them both for a walk. This helps them burn a little energy and lets you get a feel of how they will do outside together. 

If you are considering the possibility of bringing a second dog into your home and have any concerns, leave me a comment below and I will be happy to give advice and answer any questions you may have. Consider, too, checking out your local shelters. There are a vast number of dogs available, many of them pure breed, and you never know: you may end up saving a dog's life and giving your pooch a new best bud.

Training Humans wishes Monica's family the best of luck.

Saving Molly, Twice

A pure-bred German Rottweiler, Molly was a stray wandering around with her sick puppy when Jennifer found and rescued her. Molly has been with Jennifer ever since and is now between 8 and 10 years old.

Jennifer never imagined she'd ever need to get rid of Molly. But life happens. Evicted from her apartment, Jennifer had little time to find a new home and faced an unfortunate obstacle. Her new would-be landlord does not allow Rottweilers in the apartment complex; they are not, along with pit bulls and other large breeds, on the landlord's list of acceptable breeds.

With time quickly running out, Jennifer enlisted the help of her friend Leslie and started looking for a new home for Molly. She passed out flyers at local vets and businesses and started a Facebook page dedicated to sharing Molly's story with as many people as possible in the hopes of finding her a new home. Leslie even stepped up and took Molly into her own home, despite potentially drawing unwanted attention from her own landlord.

Jennifer and Leslie exhausted every possible effort to place Molly at a safe place, rather than just set her loose in the street or dump her at an animal control center that would have probably euthanized her within weeks, if not days, in the event no person stepped in to foster or adopt her.

Just a few days after starting the Facebook campaign, which included others campaigning on Molly's behalf via Twitter and blogs directing interested parties to the Facebook link, Jennifer found Molly a foster home. Molly's story is not over yet, but it's in a far better place thanks to her owner's savvy and Leslie's generosity.

Steps Jennifer took:

• Accepted the very difficult reality that she would have to part from her dog.
• Printed and passed out flyers in an effort to find Molly a new foster or forever home.
• Launched a Facebook page to reach a greater audience.
• Asked her friend for help spreading the word.
• Made sure Molly was up-to-date with all her vaccines. 
• Made sure to inform people Molly is fixed, housebroken, and has a sweet temperament, but Jennifer was honest about Molly's tendency to be territorial around other large breeds. 

Steps Leslie took: 

• Reached out to others with extensive contacts so they could help find Molly a home.
• Took Molly in for a few days so Jennifer could deal with her situation.
• Made calls to people who came forward expressing interest in adopting or fostering Molly and followed up with them.
• Was ready to drive Molly to her new home and transport her at least part of the way should someone outside Texas want to take her in. 
• Researched no-kill shelters and called them to see about their ability to take in Molly (all the no-kill shelters Leslie contacted were full and unable to take her).

If you ever find yourself in a situation like Jennifer's or simply decide you no longer want to keep your pet, please review these steps and take them. True, finding a home for a pet requires time and patience, but even something as quick as posting a status message on Facebook or Twitter could go a long way to ensuring a pet doesn't end up on the street or on a shelter's EUTH list. 

And don't be afraid to get a little help from your friends. If you have no time - for whatever reason - to research no-kill shelters or print flyers, find someone you know who can and will. 

Are you thinking about getting rid of your pet? Leave a comment here, and I will help you.