Free Sterilization of Feral Arizona Cats

Attention all feral cat guardians!  Friday November 11, 2011 is Free Feral Friday.  The Altered Tails Barnhard Clinic is waiving the normal $25.00 sterilization fee and will spay or neuter feral cats for free.  Each cat will also be vaccinated for Rabies.  A donation is requested but not mandatory.  Bring the ferals in humane cat traps, no kennel …

National Animal Shelter Appreciation Week

This week, November 6th-12th, 2011 is National Animal Shelter Appreciation Week.  Given all the animals who need homes and the wonderful people who undertake this emotionally hard work, I am delighted to pause and honor the shelters.  I also have an idea – wouldn’t it be grand if from now until year-end we could collectively raise …

Foothills Animal Rescue

I was honored when asked to speak about the human-animal bond to the volunteers and staff of Foothills Animal Rescue.  The event is their volunteer appreciation day on November 13th.  This is a wonderful rescue organization in my neighborhood in Scottsdale.  They have a great heart for animals.  Here is more information about Foothills Animal Rescue:  …

2011 Animal Charity Grant Winner – Spay Neuter Project of Los Angeles

Congratulations to the Spay Neuter Project of Los Angeles!  You are the winner of the 2011 Animal Charity Grant.  Pet overpopulation is a terribly difficult problem throughout America.  SNP LA is Los Angeles’s largest spay neuter provider.  They offer low cost surgeries to help the Los Angeles community prevent the suffering, hardship and too often, euthanasia …

Franciscan Blessing Of The Animals

Saint Francis is revered through time for many reasons – including his love of animals.  I have been privileged to travel to Assisi and highly recommend the trip to that tranquil and beautiful town.  Saint Francis understood the interconnectedness humans share with the planet and other creatures.  It is therefore fitting that centuries after his death, …

National Veterinary Technician Week 2011

October 9th through the 15th, is National Veterinary Technician Week.  The theme for 2011 is “Pets & Vets Need Techs!” which is absolutely true.  Throughout my career, I have been fortunate to work with many outstanding technicians.  Men and women who dedicate their lives to working with animals, sometimes at great personal risk.  I know several technicians who volunteer with …

All 4 Fun Dog Festival at Circle of Friends Humane Society

Last weekend, I was in North Dakota for the Grand Forks Women’s Show.  At the show, I learned that the Circle of Friends Humane Society is having a special event next weekend.  On October 9, 2011 they are hosting the All 4 Fun Dog Festival.  The event starts at noon with an alumni reunion i.e., dogs adopted …

Keystone Search and Rescue Dog Kenya

When crisis strikes in the mountains, it is great to know that dedicated dogs and people stand ready to risk their lives to save ours.  Last week I attended the Colorado Veterinary Medical Association Conference at the beautiful Keystone Resort.  It was a tremendous conference and I’m pleased that the veterinary profession continues to evolve …