HOT DOGS NEED HELP!!

Arkansas may be a state of dog lovers, but it seems we may still be putting man’s best friend at risk as a recent survey of individuals on a Saturday revealed that over 65% of people have seen a dog locked in a car on a sunny day yet over a third of them did nothing about it.

With temperatures easily reaching over 100 degrees in some parked vehicles, dogs could die within minutes so we are once again reminding motorists and visitors of our “Hot Cars Can Kill Dogs” Campaign.

The survey also reveals that 15% of those questioned called the police when they saw a dog locked in the car, 49% tried to alert the driver or have a store page individuals and 1 individual actually broke into the car to rescue the dog.

The “Hot Cars Can Kill Dogs” Campaign begins on July 7th with posters and “Hot Dog” Cards being available to individuals and businesses who love and respect animals across Northeast Arkansas. Companies and individuals can contact NAFA at nafahelp@gmail.com or visit Petco on Saturday, July 7th to pick up the “Hot Cars Can Kill Dogs” posters for business windows and “Hot Dog” cards to put on vehicles with animals inside.  There is also information about who businesses can call to assist with animals that might be in danger.

NAFA director and abuse investigator states, “It is shocking to see that so many people consider leaving their dog in the car, whatever the weather. If you wouldn’t leave your child in the car, why would you leave your pet? Given how quickly the temperature can rise, it is equally unfathomable that you would leave your pet or child.  What is even more shocking is individuals who leave dogs in the back of trucks exposing them not only to excessive heat but the dangers of passersby.”

Advice to motorists include:

Never leave your dog alone in the car – even if it seems cool outside it can become very hot very quickly inside your car. Parking in the shade and/or keeping the windows down does not make it safe!  If you leave your vehicle running with the air conditioner on, be sure that your vehicle is secure and do not leave for long as your vehicle might overheat.

Make sure you have a supply of water and know where you can stop off on route for water breaks. Dogs are not able to cool down as effectively as humans so could suffer from heat stroke and dehydration very quickly

The dangers are obvious; you just have to touch the dashboard or seats to know how hot the inside of a car can get. But it’s not just on warm days when dogs are at risk – vehicles can be death-traps even in 80 degree temperatures.

Never travel with your dog in the back of your truck.  The bed can become excessively hot and the dog has no where to get cool. 

If you do see a dog in distress please contact your local police station or animal control department. 

Local Contacts for Jonesboro:

Police Department 870-935-5553

Animal Control 870-935-3920

Below is a printable "HOT DOG" card for placing on vehicles:

Keep your pets safe,

 Tut

RABIES ON THE RISE 2012

Several new cases of rabies have Garland County officials warning residents to beware of wildlife and be sure their pets are up to date of vaccinations. According to the Arkansas State Department of Health, 52 animals have tested positive for rabies so far this year, just 8 less than last year's total of 60 cases. Hot Springs Animal Services director Dan Bugg says his agency submitted two bats and a skunk for rabies testing and the results came back positive.

In February, a family’s pet dog, living in the community of Imboden in Lawrence County, was confirmed rabid by the Arkansas Department of Health. The dog became ill and progressively declined until it was euthanized and submitted for rabies testing. Several people who were exposed to the dog underwent a series of rabies vaccinations to prevent the development of the disease. The dog was an inside/outside dog and stayed in a fenced yard when outside, but had not been vaccinated against rabies. The dog had been sprayed by a skunk a month or two ago, but the disease cannot be transmitted in skunk spray. Undoubtedly he had been bitten as well, although no skunk was seen or found in the yard.

NAFA’s low cost vaccination clinic (for qualified individuals) this Saturday, April 14th from 7:30 am to 11:30 am will sponsor Dr. Jack Jones to give rabies vaccinations for $7 (233 N. Gee – red and white building on the corner of Gee Street and Dan Avenue).  Other vaccinations, heartworm testing, preventative, flea and tick medication will also be available.  All Arkansas residents should know that dogs and cats (inside or outside) must have current rabies vaccinations given by a licensed veterinarian.

Because of this serious increase in rabies activity, NAFA reminds individual to talk with their children about avoiding wildlife completely.  Equally important is to limit the amount of time pet food is let outdoors.  Pets should be fed clean fresh food twice and day but left for only a limited amount of time.  Wildlife such as skunks and raccoons, are likely to be drawn to your yard and your pet because of the food that is left out.

OBSERVATIONS FROM THE SHELF - GOOD DOG / BAD HEALTH

A few Saturdays ago I spent the day in my usual place, on the shelf at Petco watching the wild world of pet adoption.  Lots of wonderful people came to look at pets and some even came with pets of their own.  I am always glad to see people with their dogs because it helps to make them social and happy.

Then a young man arrived with a large white, long haired Great Pyrenees. They stood back from the pen but I immediately got worried.  I looked at the beautiful dog and realized immediately that she was sick and might even be contagious.  What was this guy thinking?

One of the NAFA volunteers stepped up, just as a little girl ran up to pet the dog. My heart sank. What were the parents thinking?  The situation could take a very harsh turn any minute.

The NAFA volunteer quickly educated the young man on the dog he had brought inside the store – while the dog was very nice, it was suffering from sarcoptic mange, which many of you will know is very contagious to both animals and humans.

The young man took the dog from the store and an NAFA volunteer tracked down the parents of the little girl and they used hand sanitizer to clean their hands.  The family recently brought home two bulldog puppies, so not taking home sarcoptic mange was important to them.

All this got me to thinking about people taking their dogs into public.  I’ve come up with a couple of easy rules that people should remember.

1.      Make sure your dog is healthy and in good condition before you bring it out in public.

2.      Make sure you can handle your dog and keep it from inappropriate behavior, like peeing on every corner or lunging and barking at strangers

3.      Make sure to bring doggie bags and paper towels to clean up any mess that your dog might make.

4.      If your dog needs socializing help, contact one of the trainers at Petco and they can set you up with a free evaluation session with a certified trainer/behaviorist.

5.      Keep your dog away from other dogs so you avoid any confrontations. Just because your dog is friendly with other animals does not mean the other ones where you are will be that way.

6.      Watch for children and when they approach, ask your dog to sit and stay before you let the children pet your animal.  It is good for your dog and for the children.

7.      Make your visit a pleasant one and next time your dog will be even happier.

I also have a very important message for parents who bring their children in public where animals might be present.

         Be sure that your children know that they MUST ask the owner of the dog first, before they try to pet or touch it.  Not all dogs are as friendly and loving as me.  Some are frightened and some, I hate to say it, but some are just not nice.  It is the parents’ responsibility to make sure that children know this rule.

Thanks for taking the time to read my blog post,

                                                                                                                Ella   

REMEMBERING SCOOBY

Scooby and his Mom always come for Christmas pictures each year, so it is with a heavy heart but joyful memories that I post this memorial. Scooby was a very special boy and his Mother misses him even though it has been 2 months since he has gone.  We hope that time heals your heart and the joy of his life shines through instead of the agony of his death.

 Loved, Cherished, Missed

April 26, 1999 – December 24, 2011

IN MEMORY OF DRAEGO LEE BRITTON

Draego Lee Britton passed away February 14, 2012. He was a little over 7 years old Rottweiler. He was a wonderful funny guy who learned to do the Corgi jump from his shorter 4 legged friends. He has lived a charmed life with his Mom and Grandmother and never knew what the word want was. His favorite things to do were going everywhere with his Mom and Sonic ice cream cones. His nicknames were Boo and Baby Boy. Draego will be missed deeply by his animal siblings as well as all of his NAFA family. You were loved by many!!

Spay/Neuter - How It Can Help the Community

Our community needs your help. NAFA has been trying for years to get the funds to finish our low cost spay/neuter facility and after all this time is exceeding close to having the money for completion. We like around $5,700.00 to complete the fundraising portion of this task. Below are some facts and question that have proposed for us to answer. Please read them and see if they apply to you.

I don't even own a pet! Why is this my problem?

All of us are affected by animal overpopulation. Millions of tax dollars are spent annually to shelter and care for stray, abandoned and unwanted pets. Much of that money is spent to euthanize these animals when homes cannot be found. Human health is threatened by the danger of transmittable diseases (including rabies), animal bites and attacks. Property may be damaged and livestock killed when pets roam in search of food. Animal waste is proving to be a serious environment hazard, fouling yards and parks. It is only when all of us assume the responsibility for pet overpopulation that we will see any decrease in the problem.

If I find homes for my pet's litters, then I won't contribute to the problem, right?

Wrong. Only a small number of people will get their new animal spay or neutered so that it doesn't contribute to the overwhelming numbers of animals who need to find homes.

Won't animal shelters take care of the surplus animals?

No. Shelters do their best to place animals in loving homes, but the number of homeless animals far exceeds the number of willing/qualified adopters. This leaves many loving and healthy animals in our community that must be euthanized as the only humane solution to this tragic dilemma. Only spaying and neutering can end the overpopulation problem.

Spaying or neutering your own pet will keep your pet healthier.  It also means that your animal and his or her potential offspring won't contribute to the population of homeless and abandoned pets in our community.


They live in the shadows—the alleyways, empty lots and condemned buildings—of almost every neighborhood. Their lives are short and usually harsh. They struggle to find food and water in an environment filled with the constant threats of disease, starvation, cruelty and unwant.


If you would like to contribute to help the community end the overpopulation of unwanted and uncared for animals think about making a donation to get the ARK (Arkansans Reduce Killing) up and ready for business. You may donate by going to NAFA's Causes page (http://www.causes.com/causes/291873-nafa-northeast-arkansans-for-animals/actions) and select the give button, donating at Petco on Saturday's during adoption events, dropping a donation at The Groom Shop (1105 South Gee Street) or mailing it to us at P.O. Box 10075 Jonesboro, AR 72403. All monetary donations are tax deductible.

Izzy - Adopted August 2010

Sometimes NAFA has a family that really stands out when they adopt for one reason or another, this one is because of the great distance that was traveled for a puppy……

                                      Photo Courtesy of  Alyssa Hennessy Photography

She has traveled over 5,000 miles by car with her family and does amazing, even though she hates her seatbelt harness.

So when we received a Christmas card from the family that adopted the Wolfhound / Collie mix we were all thrilled at the photos and letter that was enclosed. The passage in what we are guessing is a yearly letter about the way life has been going included a whole paragraph about Izzy. Here is the excerpt from that letter:

“Izzy, our quadruped fur baby, turned one year old in June (or around there). Her legs have lengthened along with her fur. We still have not bothered to investigate what her mix breed could be, but she does resemble the breeds the rescue thought she was (Wolfhound / Collie mix). In all honesty, we know it’s a really hairy breed crossed with a hyper breed. Graduation from Obedience Training was achieved (Whew!). She can now sit, shake your hand, and when she feels like it she will come inside on command. 

 Izzy would still give Beckham a run for his money. No seriously, the little stinker will actually dribble the ball away from you before she clamps down on it. “

We were so happy to hear about her antics and how life was going for her. She has turned into a beautiful girl as we all hoped she would. We were all saddened when she was adopted to people that are so far away but at the same time happy that she was getting such a fantastic home. We are glad that she is our friend on Facebook as well. We get to see updated pictures when they let us know there are new ones posted.

If you would like to join us on Facebook please go friend us online at https://www.facebook.com/NAFA.rescue or you can also just fan us on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/NAFA.animals .

Goose - Great Dane /Labrador Retriever

Goose was adopted this year and is already settling into his home nicely. He is a Great Dane / Labrador Retriever as far as we at NAFA know. Another of his siblings went to a foster to adopt home this weekend.

Goose's Mom wrote us and sent these lovely pictures of Goose at his forever home. Here is what she has to say about this guy already.

"I would like to share with you that he has a great temperament, so someone has been working with him.  He sits a lot when we go outside and I will need to get a little instruction on keeping that procedure and using it the correct way.

I am lucky that he sleeps all night.  I will put him in his crate at night around 9:45-10:00 and after a couple of  minutes of whining, he settles down and sleeps til I get up at 5:30-5:45.  (We are hoping to get better on him not wetting the bed!!!) And believe you me, I take him out every hour that I am home and give him the opportunity to exercise and go to the bathroom.

He's been playing with several toys and there is no need of me throwing the ball; with his big paws, when he runs after it, he almost always 'bats' it forward again and keeps chasing it.

He loves a paper towel tube and when I want his attention, I make a little noise with it and he comes running.  He also enjoys a soft/fuzzy ring and would love it if I would give him his own pair of house slippers.  I have caught him grabbing one and running to his dog pillow/bed that you will see in some of the pictures I will send you.

Goose didn't like that cold, blowing wind this morning when I took him out to do his business!!!  (Me either)"

We are thankful to the people who give NAFA's animals a wonderful, loving home. If you think that you would like to adopt you can visit our petfinder (http://www.petfinder.com/pet-search?shelter_id=AR55 ) site to see if your next furry family member is there. You can also visit our website or facebook for more information. Adoption are from 1 p.m. - 4 p.m. on Saturday's at Petco although if you are interested in adopting you need to have your Potentional Home Questionnaire filled out or in hand by 3:30 p.m. as there is an interview process. 

PAWS FOR EXCELLENCE AWARD PRESENTED TO LARRY ROGERS

On Tuesday, January, 17th Wannda Turner of Northeast Arkansans for Animals presented Sergeant Larry Rogers with NAFA's Paws for Excellence Award. Below is what she had to say before the award was presented.

"The saying goes … it takes a village.

In the case of the animals in our community, it takes much more.  It takes a dedicated Mayor and Chief of Police.  It takes an educated and passionate Prosecuting Attorney’s office.  And it also takes and interested and informed City Council.

But most importantly it takes one individual to keep it all going.  In the past five years the animal community of Jonesboro has seen an unsightly “Dog Pound” converted into a state of the art “Animal Control Department”.

That devoted and hard-working individual is Sgt. Larry Rogers. 

His singular vision has made the Jonesboro Animal Control Department something every citizen can and should be proud of.  It is his compassion for the animals, devotion to the city of Jonesboro and overall care for each citizen that exemplifies the type individual that every city hopes to have in charge of their animal citizens.

The past five years have seen an extraordinary leap in abuse case investigations, adoptions and transfers of animals to rescues.  Sgt. Rogers continues to stay abreast of laws and works for better enforcement.  His desire for humanity shows in the exceptional conditions of the Animal Control Facility.  And he is willing to readily assist other cities to help improve their animal departments.

For these characteristics and his obvious big heart, NAFA wishes to award Sgt. Larry Rogers with our highest show of praise – our “PAWS for Excellence” award.  We believe his is responsible for the most significant improvements made in our animal community in the past decade and should be recognized for it."

Animal Control Officer's, NAFA Volunteer's and Jack Jones, DMV all came to the meeting to show their support and pride in Sgt. Rogers. Please if you have a chance let Sgt. Rogers, his officer's and employees at Jonesboro Animal Control know how much you appreciate the efforts they are making to help the Jonesboro community with the animal issues that are plaguing us. 

A neighbor of a NAFA volunteer saw this little guy running down a community road where it had almost been ran over by an oncoming vehicle. She contacted the NAFA volunteer, who explained that she must call the Director before taking the animal but would help out with the dog until she was able to reach her. The dog was taken in on Saturday and the owner contacted NAFA to arrange for pick up of the dog on Thursday. NAFA’s Director contacted the communities Animal Control Officer to alert him that dog had been found running loose in his area. He was able to help reunite this happy fellow with his family. He was very excited to see Amber when she came to get him.

 While in foster care the foster home that was keeping him discovered that he is able to scale a 5 foot chain link fence plus is able to able to unlatch the chain link gate. Hopefully this family has learned more about their sweet fellow and will deter him from further adventures of his own making.

 If you have found an animal running loose in your community try local officials first as sometimes they are familiar with the animal. If you need assistance with the animal you may contact NAFA at nafahelp@gmail.com or nafaresce@yahoo.com . You can also leave a message on NAFA message only line at 870-932-1955. 

Max Memorial

NAFA would like to acknowledge the passing of a special member of the Turner family. Max will be missed greatly by his family.

World Rabies Day - $3.00 Vaccinations

September 28th was World Rabies Day.  The Arkansas Department of Health has issued some alarming statistics The State Health Department reports an alarming rise in the number of rabies cases so far this year. In fact, they've already surpassed the total amount from last year.

With a lot of people living in rural areas around Arkansas and letting their pets run around outside, the state's latest rabies map is important to see. Each color represents a county and the level of cases hitting there this year. Sebastian County is probably the biggest hit with 26 cases and 64 dogs now quarantined after exposure.  NAFA is trying to help  owners in this area.

No Appointment Necessary.  This Saturday, October 1st from 7:30 am to 11:30 am, NAFA will sponsor Dr. Jack Jones for our monthly low cost clinic – 233 N. Gee, red and white building on the corner of Gee Street and Dan Avenue across from Riceland Foods.  While individuals usually must qualify for our services, this Saturday any individual can received rabies vaccinations for their dogs or cats, certificate and tag for only $3.00.  While coupons are required, individuals can show up and ask for a coupon on the spot.  Individuals who want a rabies only can bring their animals and leave them in their vehicles, NAFA technicians and the vet will give rabies shots so the animal never has to leave the security of the vehicle.

Other vaccinations and services are available, however, individuals must qualify and must bring their animals inside the building for those services.

Here are some key points from the Arkansas Department of Health:

• Ark. averages 41 rabid animals per year, but so far in 2011 we have had 50 positives, including 44 rabid skunks and 6 rabid bats.

• Sebastian Co. alone has had 26 rabid skunks in 2011. In a normal year, we average 32 rabid skunks for the entire state. Through Aug. 31, 2011, 42 skunks have been submitted from Sebastian Co., with a rate of 62 percent being positive. The previous 5 years statewide have a 45.7 percent positive rate.

• Rabies is 100 percent preventable. In most cases, preventing rabies is as simple as ensuring adequate animal vaccination and control, avoiding contact with wild animals, and educating those at risk. Of the 64 dogs and 1 cat exposed to rabid animals from the wild this year, only 31 percent have been current on their rabies vaccinations.

• While we have had an epidemic of skunk type rabies this year, we cannot forget that bat exposures lead to almost all of the deaths to rabies in the US (excluding those people who were bitten by an animal in another country but then were in the US when the symptoms began).

• Any bite from a bat, no matter how tiny, is extremely serious. If possible, capture the bat and have it tested for rabies. If we cannot test, the person must receive rabies preventive shots.

NAFA is a non profit 501c3.  Funds for this clinic are provided by local donors.

A NAFA friend and I went to Walmart Sunday afternoon to pick up a prescription that was ready. When she parked the car, she left the motor and the air conditioning running for me. I am a 6 lb “Dorkie” named Ella and I go everywhere with her. So she has to make sure that I am safe.

However, two cars over I noticed a car with a Terrier in it. The window was cracked about a half inch but neither the air conditioning was on nor was the car running. My NAFA friend was inside Walmart only 8 minutes and when she came out to find the dog was still locked inside the hot car, the dog was panting and drooling. I could see the seat was wet where the dog had been panting so hard.

You may have found yourself in my situation before. Many pet parents believe that cracking a window is enough to keep their dogs cool in the car while they make a quick pit stop—but they couldn’t be more wrong. "Automobile temperatures can very quickly rise to dangerous levels; the average temperature increase in a parked car is 40 degrees, and the majority of this increase occurs in the first 15 to 30 minutes," says NAFA’s veterinarian, Dr. Jack Jones. According to statistics from the ASPCA, when it’s 90 degrees outside, a car will be a staggering 125 degrees in 20 to 30 minutes!

Worse still, dogs can’t cool themselves down as easily as people, and once they overheat, they can suffer extensive organ damage or die. Luckily, for this dog the NAFA volunteer made all the right moves and the dog survived.

Follow her lead by taking these simple steps.

Step 1: Try to Locate the Pet Parent
The Terrier’s people were nowhere in sight, so she went inside and customer service tried to find the family through the loudspeaker. (You can ask most stores to do this.) No one came to the car.

Step 2: Get Involved
I waited patiently in my truck with cool air, while I watched and worried about the Terrier in the other car. The owners of the car and pet could not be found. We then quickly called the police (normally we would have called animal control but it was Sunday). It had been nearly 20 minutes since I first noticed the dog. A very nice Jonesboro police officer arrived very quickly and used a rod to open the door.

Step 3: Cool the Animal Slowly
When we pulled the Terrier from the steamy vehicle she was lethargic and ill. We moved her into the garden area in the shade and wet a tshirt to lay over her. We applied cool (not cold) water to the pads of her feet and allowed her to slowly lick water from a small dish. Within a few minutes she began to feel better. Meanwhile the police officer ran the plates, got the name of the owner and went back inside the store to have them paged.

Step 4: Get Veterinarian Help

Once the Terrier seemed stable, we discussed with the police taking the dog to a veterinarian. While the NAFA volunteer was on the phone with an emergency vet, the owners arrived. They found the police officer writing them a ticket and a NAFA abuse investigator caring for their dog. The owners agreed to take the dog to their veterinarian and provide the police and NAFA with proof of the visit. Luckily the Terrier named “Spanky” suffered no long term effects

Fourteen states (AZ, CA, IL, ME, MD, MN, NV, NH, NJ, NY, ND, SD, VT, and WV but not Arkansas) have enacted specific laws that protect dogs in hot or extremely cold cars, as have many municipalities—but even in places lacking such a law, leaving an animal in a hot car constitutes cruelty.

Step 5: Educate the Public / Carry Hot Dog Cards
Pets are counting on people like you to save their lives. NAFA and the police rescued Spanky, the Terrier just in time, and she made a full recovery! Remember what you should do and tell your family, friends and neighbors how to handle this situation. NAFA provides free hazard cards to put on the windows of cars where animals are left if it is not a life and death situation for the animal. NAFA also provides free handouts on how to best work with an animal suffering from heat stroke. If you would like any of this information email nafahelp@gmail.com or see us any Saturday at Petco from 1 p.m. - 3:45 p.m. for the handout or cards to carry in your vehicle.

Step 6: Share Your Story
If you have had an incident where you have seen or helped rescue an animal from a hot or cold car, please post your story to our facebook page (www.facebook.com/NAFA.rescue) or email wanndat@fastdata.net. NAFA is hoping to get the city of Jonesboro to pass a specific ordinance providing rescue provisions and penalties for animals in vehicles (similar to a California law) …

California Law:
It shall be unlawful to leave or confine an animal in any unattended motor vehicle under conditions that endanger the health or well-being of an animal due to heat, cold, lack of adequate ventilation, or lack of food or water, or other circumstances that could reasonably be expected to cause suffering, disability, or death to the animal. Penalty - First conviction: fine not exceeding $100 per animal. If the animal suffers great bodily injury, a fine not exceeding $500, imprisonment in a county jail not exceeding 6 months, or by both. Any subsequent violation of this section, regardless of injury to the animal, punishable by a fine not exceeding $1,000, imprisonment in a county jail not exceeding six months, or by both. Rescue Provisions - A law enforcement officer, humane agent or animal control officer may take all steps that are reasonably necessary to remove an animal from a motor vehicle if the animal's safety, health or well-being appears to be in immediate danger. Must leave written notice bearing the officer's or agent's name and office and the address of the location where the animal may be claimed.

Please keep your pets safe from the extreme summer heat. Make sure they have shade and fresh cool water when outside. Thanks for reading my story!

Till Next Time,
Ella

LYME DISEASE

Lyme disease is now the most common tick-borne human infection in the USA, with more than 30,000 cases reported to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention last year. While on the rise, instances of lyme disease in Arkansas are not common. However, for dogs and cats, ticks (and fleas) can be life threatening even without lyme disease. Excessive ticks can produce paralysis, anemia and even death for some pets. During the last 3 weeks, NAFA has rescued nearly 20 dogs and cats that have serious health issues as a result of flea and tick infestations. It is important for the health of you and your pet that you keep fleas and ticks to a minimum.
This Saturday from 7:30 am to 11:30 am NAFA will sponsor Dr. Jack Jones in a low cost vaccination clinic for qualified individuals. The low cost vaccination clinic will be at 233 N. Gee at NAFA’s Animal Services Building. Vaccinations, heartworm test and heartworm preventative will be available at significantly reduced prices for low income, disabled, elderly and unemployed individuals. For a complete list of vaccinations and qualifications for individuals please visit http://nafarescue.org/events. 
Flea and tick preventative will also be available. In addition, NAFA will provide free information at both our low cost vaccination clinic and our pet adoption event 1 to 4 pm at Petco, on low cost, effective means to help reduce and eliminate fleas and ticks. (Please note this is not a fund raising event – it is a community service event).
Thanks,
Tut

DISASTER HITS NORTHEAST ARKANSAS

Since the storms began last week and the waters continued to rise, NAFA A.I.D. (Animals in Disaster) teams have been assisting with animals in distress.

· One team answered a call for an elderly couple who refused to leave their home in danger from rising water, until shelter was found for their dog and cat.

· One team answered an urgent call for a momma dog and 3 puppies found near a ditch. NAFA believes the dog had moved the puppies into the culvert of the ditch and as the water began to rise she moved them. They were rain soaked, cold and terrified. But they are now safely in foster care. Neighbors alerted us to the owners who surrendered the dog and puppies. Storm damage to their fence resulted in them not being able to provide proper care.

· One team answered a call from neighbors who watched as waters rose around a home across the road. A male boxer and female lab pup stayed on the porch until the water poured on to the porch. The dogs dove in and swam to the neighbors camper. NAFA arranged to pick up both the dogs yesterday evening. Unfortunately, the male boxer was stolen from their yard. NAFA now has possession of the lab puppy. The neighbors indicated that they saw the family pack up and leave several days before the waters began rising. No one returned for the dogs. NAFA investigators are actively searching for the individual who stole the boxer and the original owners who left the dogs behind. These animals were in the Powhattan community.

· NAFA has been in contact with the Red Cross in Randolph County and offered assistance to any individuals arriving at the Red Cross Shelter with pets.

· Additionally, NAFA will make available food, cat litter, bedding, treats, carriers or dog houses to individuals who have lost possessions in the storm. Individuals wishing to apply for assistance should email nafahelp@gmail.com.

We hope that all of your family members (people and pets) are safe!!

Until Next Time,
Tut & Issi, AID Volunteer

Pet Loss Group

New group for people mourning the loss of pets. It is free to the public and will meet every Wednesday at noon beginning April 20th. It meets at Life Journey's Counseling Center located at 512 Washington Street in Jonesboro, Arkansas. People can call 870-935-5433 for more information or call Keren at 919-7629.

Thanks for letting us know,
Tut & Ella

EASTER PETS NOT A GOOD IDEA!!!

With Easter right around the corner, pet stores are stocking up on bunnies, ducks, and chicks.


Many parents are tempted to buy these adorable critters as children's Easter gifts. This is NOT a good idea. People don't always realize that these cute, cuddly baby animals grow up into large, not so cute and cuddly adults. Little bunnies grow into 10 lb rabbits. Downy chicks and ducklings sprout "ugly" feathers.

Rabbits, chicks, and ducks are not "low-maintenance" pets. They require constant temperatures, special housing, excellent nutrition, and daily care. The responsibility of caring for them is far too great for a child or busy adult.

Cute little ducks and chicks can pose health risks. Ducks and chickens can be carriers of salmonellosis - an intestinal disease that can be transferred to humans. Salmonellosis is especially dangerous in children and people with weakened immune systems (such the elderly).

Baby animals are very fragile.

They can be accidentally killed or permanently injured if handled too roughly. This is a very common cause of death in Easter pets.

These animals require a long commitment. The average life span of a rabbit is 5-10 years, and 12+ is not uncommon. The average backyard chicken lives between 7-8 years. Ducks can live up to 15 years.

Most chicks, ducks, and bunnies given as Easter gifts die within a few weeks of the holiday.

BUNNIES & RABBITS

- Rabbits require as much work as a dog or cat and can live 10-15 years.

- They do NOT make good pets for children (they can inflict painful bites and scratches). Due to fragile bones and backs, they must also be picked up and supported in a specific way that is difficult for children.

- Rabbits must be provided with large quantities of timothy hay and vegetables (mostly dark leafy greens), and limited quantities of commercial rabbit pellets.

- They also eat their own feces (called 'cecal pellets') in order to extract all of the necessary nutrients from their high-fiber, hard-to-digest diet.

- Rabbits should be kept indoors if possible. Outdoor housing is not recommended because outdoor conditions can be very dangerous to a rabbit's health due to outdoor predators, weather extremes, boredom, loneliness, and depression.

- Cages with solid flooring are always preferred to those with wire mesh floors, due to the fact that the wire is hard on rabbits' feet and nails. If a wire mesh bottomed cage is used, it is necessary to provide a solid place for the rabbit to rest on (such as a grass mat).

- Cages should have enough room to allow the rabbit to lay down across the width of the cage, to sit up on its hind legs without its ears touching the top of the cage, and to lay on the floor outside of its hiding place. Most pet stores stock only cages of an appropriate size for very small rabbits. Larger breeds require multi-floor cages, such as those designed for ferrets or chinchillas.

- Cages should have: a place to hide, a food dish, a litter box, a water bottle, toys, and a hay box.

- Rabbits need at least 4 hrs a day outside of their cages for exercise.

- Rabbits must be spayed or neutered or they will mark your house with feces and urine.

- According to the House Rabbit Society, rabbits "are suffering the same fate as our other companion animals -- abandonment. It's a sad fact that no matter where you live, you are within 10 miles of a rabbit who needs a home".


DUCKLINGS & DUCKS

- Without the protective oils produced by their mother, a duckling's down soaks up water like a sponge. They will tire quickly and drown if left unattended by water.

- A duckling is a fully grown duck in about 30 days.

- Ducks are not suitable pets for children. They can pinch and peck aggressively if provoked.

- Contrary to popular belief, bread and crackers are not a good staple food for ducks. They need a well balanced, varied diet, from pelleted mash, vegetable trimmings, algae, plants, snails, meal worms, night crawlers, coy food, feeder goldfish, and grass.

- Ducks require a constant supply of fresh, clean water for drinking, swimming, eating, and cleaning themselves.

- Ducks do not have the physical anatomy required (a sphincter muscle) to be potty trained.
They are very messy.

- Domestic ducks will NOT survive in the wild. Unlike their wild duck cousins, domestic ducks cannot fly to safety when predators attack. They cannot migrate to food when existing food sources disappear in the winter. Without human intervention, they often starve to death or are euthanized by animal control workers.

- Even in the city, predators are a major threat. Dogs, coyotes, raccoons, opossums, cats, rats, and snakes are all possible predators.

- Pet ducks should never be caged once they are full grown. If you can't allow your duck to roam your entire yard, give them an area of their own that is clean, safe from predators, and accessible for daily maintenance and feeding. They also require some sort of shelter (a dog kennel, etc.) from the elements. Wire bottom cages are NOT suitable as they can cause severe foot injuries.


CHICKS & CHICKENS

- The largest, most experienced chicken hatcheries only guarantee about 90% sexing accuracy - that means you might end up with a constantly crowing, nasty tempered rooster!

- Roosters, and even some hens, can become very aggressive.

- Keeping chickens is illegal in some cities.

- Chickens can make a great deal of noise, especially after laying eggs.

- Chickens need to be outdoors at least part of the day. They love to scratch in dirt, take dust baths, eat tender new shoots (remember that some house plants can be poisonous), and lay sprawled out in the sun.

- Chicken houses need perches at varying levels and a laying box.

- Even in the city, predators are a major threat. Dogs, coyotes, raccoons, and opossums can be devastating. Young chicks can be killed by cats, rats, and snakes.

NO LIVE GIFTS FOR EASTER

Spread the word that live animals do not make good gifts for Easter. Instead of live animals, give children (and adults) critter shaped chocolate and marshmallow treats. Stuffed animals are also great gifts for animal lovers.



Have a safe and Happy Easter,

Tut & Ella

VOLUNTEER INFROMATION & ORIENTATION HELD

We held our Volunteer Orientation and Information session on Tuesday, March 15th, 2011. We discussed programs that people might be interested in becoming involved in as well as new programs that will be added this year. It was about an hour long meeting with a few of NAFA's current volunteers and people who are interested in helping the community with animal related help.

Hope to see you at our next session, which has not been scheduled yet, that will hone in on special programs.

Till Next Time,
Ella

NAFA VOLUNTEER INFORMATION AND ORIENTATION

Tuesday, March 15th, 2011 @ Petco in Jonesboro, AR

NAFA is always looking for dedicated animal lovers and advocates, whether they can give 15 minutes, 2 hour, a day or more. By becoming a NAFA dedicated volunteer, you'll build strong relationships with the community, animals and other like-minded volunteers. With your help we'll build a Model Animal Community-a city where unwanted pets and abused, abandoned or homeless animals can find refuge, rehabilitation and rehoming.

The first step in becoming a NAFA volunteer is to attend a volunteer orientation. During the orientation, you will learn about NAFA and the many areas we have available for volunteers. NAFA has more than a dozen programs to help pets stay in the home they have, to find new homes, to be rescued from abuse/neglect, to be educated about health issues, to receive inexpensive veterinarian services for qualifying individuals and to be rescued during disasters.

There is never a commitment to volunteer a specific number of hours. Some additional training is necessary for some of our programs and activities. Our next volunteer orientation which will last about 60 minutes will be at Petco beginning at 7:30 pm. Althought NAFA encourages individuals to bring their pets to our activities, this orientation is for people only.

Hope to see you there,
Ella

RABID SKUNK IN GREENWOOD

According to the Arkansas Department of Health, a skunk taken from high school property in Greenwood tested positive for rabies. While Greenwood is in the western part of Arkansas it is a reminder that residents must be diligent in getting their pets vaccinated. If a human contracts rabies there is no cure. NAFA highly encourage all pet owners to ensure their pet’s vaccinations are up to date, especially rabies. Both dogs and cats should have rabies tags and owners should keep certificates easily accessible.

NAFA is sponsoring Dr. Jack Jones for another low cost vaccination clinic this Saturday, March 12th from 7:30 to 11:30 am at our Animal Services Building – 233 N. Gee (red and white building on the corner of Gee Street and Dan Avenue across from Riceland Foods). For costs, vaccinations available and qualifications individuals can visit NAFA’s website http://nafarescue.org/nafa_news or email wanndat@fastdata.net.

Protect your pets,
Tut & Ella