I dig as much as possible, long narrow trenches and deep holes.
I run in circles and nip at people’s ankles.
I don’t like the cold and would prefer to be carried.
I like to bay and chase woodland critters.

Several particular breeds come to mind for most of us when assigning breeds to behaviors.  We doubt the Akita digs long narrow trenches, or the Chihuahua likes to bay and chase woodland critters.  We understand that some dogs are simply born with particular behaviors.  What we fail to remember sometimes is that many dog behaviors are established at or before birth – not just breed-specific behaviors. 

Your dog is not necessarily attempting to dominate you when he jumps up on you, he was simply born with the instinct to sniff and lick faces when he greets.  Your dog may have inherited her instinct to hide when people enter the room from her mother before birth.  These behaviors can oftentimes be modified with appropriate training, but they will not go away on their own, or because “he’s a Lab and they don’t mature until they are 3 years old.”  Dogs are not born understanding human etiquette.  They are bred with the instinct to relieve their bladder when it’s full, but they are not bred with the instinct to seek out grass instead of carpet to eliminate.  Patient, kind and persistent training will help them understand how humans like things done. 

When your dog develops a behavior you don’t particularly appreciate, keep in mind that it probably wasn’t anything you did to cause it.  Some element of that behavior was probably instilled well before your pup was under your care.  But you are the one who will have to help him understand that even though you understand he was probably bred with the instinct to chase woodland critters, you would prefer he chase the tennis ball.  And even though she’d like to be carried most of the time, it would be healthier for her to walk a few blocks a day.  You are your dog’s guardian.  Help him become the dog you would like him to be.

Today’s blog author is Marie Tripton. Marie is the manager of the Richmond SPCA’s Behavior Helpline. Call the helpline at 643-SPCA or Marie.

Ah, the perfect family dog; running with the kids on your acres and acres of protected land while you sip iced tea or libations.  Inside your three-story Victorian lies your loving feline friend, basking on a window sill, a reflection of your own relaxation.  Then you wake up. Your dog, not your wife, is next to you with your favorite work tie in his mouth while your cat prepares to jump on your face from the night stand. Let’s face it, perfection is hard sought and rarely found.  So what is it that you should look for when adopting a new pet to get as close to “perfection” as possible? Is it the animals’ breed?  It could be, but that’s where lines get fuzzy.

There are many misconceptions as to which breed makes the “perfect” family pet; toy breeds are small, Siamese cats tell you when they want something, Labs are loyal, Poodles don’t shed, Maine Coon cats are like independent little dogs that require less attention, Bassets don’t require extensive exercise, etcetera.  The fact of the matter is purebred dogs are only but so “pure,” and while a certificate of pedigree may tell you about your pet’s family tree, it’s no guarantee that a pet will fit into your home and lifestyle. Will he be perfect for your home?  After generations of inbreeding the answer is never definite. 

What families should focus on is not preconceived notions about a particular breed but what characteristics are desired of their new pet. What will help your new pet and the family mesh together “perfectly.”  A new pet is like a new family member and to say one certain type of animal is best for that family puts serious limitations on the “perfect” family pet.  Considerations should include temperament, toleration of children and other animals, activity level, and ability to acclimate to the family schedule.  With these things in mind, be mindful of traits associated with breeds, but in the end a mutt, or mixed breed, is likely to be the perfect new pet for any family.

Mixed breeds can often accommodate a family’s desires, as they don’t come pre-programmed for any particular tasks. Like snowflakes, each mix is unique. Be proud that you have the only German Lab-herd-collie in the neighborhood. Be rewarded with the knowledge that by adopting your precious tabby, whose bloodline can’t be traced with any certainty, you’ve not only given her a home but also saved a life.

Today’s blog author is Patrick Hawkins. Pat is the adoption coordinator at the Richmond SPCA. to send e-mail to the adoption center, or call 521-1307.

I have not been at the Richmond SPCA for a very long time, but as I read various shelter and humane publications I have seen it stated that July 5 is possibly the busiest day of the year for facilities acquiring lost pets.  It is worth mentioning again that even the most laid back pet may become anxious and startled enough – with all the noise and commotion – to escape and get lost on the Fourth of July and the days surrounding its festivities. Heed the advice to keep them confined and safe and accounted for during next week’s holiday.
After years of private practice (some of which were during the days when we did our own after-hours emergencies), I do have experience with the reasons besides getting lost that they may need medical help of my kind.  I have listed just a few of the other things that we would tend to see around the Fourth of July that may prompt a visit to your local veterinarian.
• Fireworks of any kind are not safe to have around our pets.  They can cause serious burns and toxicities if ingested.
• Matches, lighters or lighter fluid can cause burns as well as severe breathing problems, kidney disease and neurological problems. 
• Even though they may not be willing drink it, alcohol has the potential to cause weakness, depression, coma and death.
• Changes in diet, like the hot dog off the grill, can cause major stomach upsets.
• Sunscreens and bug sprays labeled for humans are meant only for humans.  Misuse can result in drooling, stomach problems and neurological problems.
• Citronella candles, coils and oils should be kept out of our pets’ reach.  They can cause stomach irritation and depression if ingested.
• Be careful with glow-in-the dark jewelry that they may chew on.  It too can upset their digestive systems and the plastic could be broken up and swallowed. 
• Hot asphalt around the pool or on the sidewalk can cause very painful burns to the pads of their feet.
• Heat exhaustion becomes even a greater risk when they are anxious or frightened since they may pace or run or be unwilling to drink water.
• Drowning can be a potential danger if they cannot get out of the pool, they panic in the water or they get caught in the current of the river.
• Dog bites from other dogs may be a greater risk when they are out of their normal environment and they are overly excited.
So even though we are commemorating our independence, let our furry friends miss the backyard barbecue and light show since it is highly unlikely that it would be their chosen form of celebration.  They would probably prefer to honor their independence with being allowed to sleep on the new sofa just this once, or come inside without wiping their feet or to just stay smelly after they get wet.
Today’s blog was written by Dr. Angela Ivey, director of veterinary medicine at the Richmond SPCA. Dr. Ivey spent many years in private veterinary practice before joining the medical staff at the Richmond SPCA in 2004. 

It’s almost 4th of July - otherwise known as Independence Day - the day this country formally came to be by seceding from the Queen’s reign in England in 1776.  We celebrate our courage to be different in our thoughts and actions.  We celebrate our freedom to choose who we become. 

Meanwhile we ask our pets to fit the mold of perfection.  We want them all to love everybody, to do what we ask every time we ask it, to be quiet and humble, and to be there for a furry hug when we need one. 

I challenge us to be free thinkers—to accept our pets for who they are, and strike an accord between ourselves and them.  Refrain from the desire to keep your pets quiet continuously.  Accept that your dog howls at the moon and join him.  Accept that your cat sings for her supper and sing along.  You are the person and therefore the governor of your pet’s society, so you’ll have to find a way to help him be quiet when necessary.  For instance, if your dog is inclined to howl at visitors when they arrive, you can, with time and patience, teach him a quieter way with guests.  But keep in mind that barking is dogspeak, and asking him never to make a peep is like removing the pen from our forefathers’ hands.  Your pet does not have to rule your universe, but they should be allowed a voice in the decisions you make. 

Today’s blog author is Marie Tripton. Marie is the manager of the Richmond SPCA’s Behavior Helpline. Call the helpline at 643-SPCA or Marie.

Holidays can present a great opportunity to adopt a pet while you and your family have extra time away from work and school. Although each holiday can present special challenges to consider, with planning and preparation, you’ll find your new pet beginning to settle into your home.

If you decide to add a pet to your family before the July 4th holiday, a little planning will ensure that you enjoy the holiday and your four-legged pal stays safe.

·      A new pet may not be ready to meet your extended friends and family. If your Independence Day tradition includes a cookout at your home, set aside a quiet room away from the festivities for your new companion. Make this “home base” comfortable with toys and bedding. If you’d like to introduce Fido to your friends, put him on leash first so you can control the greeting.

·      Make sure your pet is wearing identification tags. If he does slip away from you, identification will help reunite you with your pet more quickly. If you find a pet who has strayed from home, he should be taken to your city or county animal control, where he has the best chance of being claimed by his owners.

·      Resist the urge to take your pet along to fireworks displays. Leave him out of harm’s way in a quiet place at home.

·      Even pets who are normally not easily startled may be disturbed by the collective celebratory voices and fireworks. Do not leave your pets unattended outdoors, even with a fenced yard. Panic may cause a pet who normally wouldn’t leave the yard to escape, become lost or lead to injury.

·      Some pets may become destructive when frightened. Secure your dog in his crate with a Kong or other puzzle toy for entertainment while you are away. If you decide to leave your pet loose in your home, remove items from his reach that he could destroy or that would harm him if chewed.

The accomplishment of the Richmond SPCA in performing more than 11,000 free and low-cost spay and neuter surgeries in a year remains just an amazing feat to me having come from a private practice environment.  I had a well-established and very profitable practice for close to twenty years.  We thought that a surgery schedule that included more that two large dog spays, three cat spays, two dog neuters and four cat neuters was a busy surgery day.  Granted, we accomplished all of those in the middle of a day full of morning and afternoon general appointments in a busy two-doctor practice.  But now I realize just how much of an impact a high-volume spay neuter clinic can have.  Our goal of 27,000 sterilizations over a three-year period was a huge undertaking for our Board of Directors, but they knew it was a pivotal piece in ending euthanasia as the tool for population control.  Overpopulation is a direct result of animals left unaltered in our communities.  We need to use every tool possible to prevent companion animals from becoming homeless in the first place.
Now when I come in each morning at the Richmond SPCA, I know what a service we are offering to the parents of the more than 50 dogs, cats, puppies and kittens that we may spay or neuter on any given day.  I know how important it is that none of our animals are adopted out without having been sterilized first.  And I know how crucial it is to other local shelters that do not have a surgical staff to be able to bring their pets here to have them sterilized before they are adopted from their facility.  I know how important it is for veterinary students who intern with us to assist in an efficient, high-volume facility and to learn the benefits of a pediatric spay/neuter protocol.  I know how amazed the children are who come by our surgery observation windows and what an educational opportunity the discussion can be about sterilization on any level.  I feel that we truly are making a difference in the next generations, and they will have the tools to be more responsible pet owners.
So whether we impact the veterinary student, the child here for a birthday party, you who read our blogs, the low-income spay/neuter client, the feral colony caregiver or the grateful owner who must surrender his pet to us, every new person who we come in contact with and who gets the concept of what it takes to end euthanasia as population control will put us a little bit closer to realizing our goal.  I feel like it is our duty, knowing that the concept is working and will work anywhere, to share what we have learned and to continue to empower others to achieve it.

Today’s blog was written by Dr. Angela Ivey, director of veterinary medicine at the Richmond SPCA. Dr. Ivey spent many years in private veterinary practice before joining the medical staff at the Richmond SPCA in 2004.

The first strategic plan for the Richmond SPCA was adopted in 1998, one year after the arrival of our current CEO Robin Robertson Starr. The adoption of that first plan was a watershed moment for our organization and decided our transformation into a no-kill humane society.

Not only was our Board of Directors resolved that the Richmond SPCA should become a no-kill shelter, they envisioned a city where no healthy, homeless animal would be killed because he lacked a home, and they pledged to achieve this citywide by 2008.  The Richmond SPCA and Richmond Animal Care and Control achieved this goal in 2006, two years ahead of schedule.  A key to that goal is the community. Bringing an end to the traditional reliance on euthanasia to control the populations of companion animals has required cooperation from everyone. The community will continue to be a vital contributor to our success in the City and Greater Richmond, as we maintain relationships with county municipal shelters as well.

The tools of Project Safety Net are designed as a pet retention program and were incorporated into that first strategic plan. As a component of our no-kill model, we provide alternatives to pet relinquishment by addressing the issues that most often lead owners to surrender their animal companions.

• At your wits end with a behavior problem? The behavior helpline is here to address your pet behavior concerns. Call 643-SPCA or to e-mail the helpline. 

• Moving and unsure of how your pet fits into the plan? Consult our pet-friendly housing guide.

• Could you keep your dog if he had better manners? Join a manners class, designed to help great pets with minor problems.

• Need help finding a home for your pet? Utilize our re-homing service to advertise your pet to potential adopters.

When a pet stays in his home, we are able to save the life of another orphaned pet who may otherwise have lost his life. If an owner can place his pet with another family, space at our center remains available to transfer homeless pets from the city shelter.

Today marks Robin Starr’s tenth anniversary as CEO of the Richmond SPCA. In recognition of Robin’s contributions to animal welfare in the City of Richmond, Mayor L. Douglas Wilder has declared June 19 as Richmond SPCA Humane Education Day.

The mayor’s proclamation recognizes the importance of education in creating a no-kill community where every life is precious. Wilder said, “Robin Starr’s achievements have brought national attention to our City regarding the importance of benevolence toward animals, and our community is enriched as a result of her many contributions.”

Wilder commended the Richmond SPCA for dedicated efforts toward enhancing the welfare of abandoned and orphaned pets within the community and praised the Robins-Starr Humane Center as the finest shelter in the nation. As reasons for the proclamation, he cited Starr’s numerous achievements for animal welfare and the fact that no healthy, homeless animal died in the City of Richmond in 2006, making Richmond one of the four safest cities in the country for orphaned dogs and cats.

Looking for a way to observe Richmond SPCA Humane Education Day?

• Refer a friend to our behavior helpline, which offers behavioral assistance by our expert training staff at no cost to the pet owner. 804-643-SPCA or .

• Tell five friends about our free and low-cost Smoky’s Spay-Neuter Clinic, which in 2006 performed in excess of 11,000 surgeries, many of them for free for those of low-income. Click here to learn more about our spay/neuter program.

• Learn more about our partnership with ASPCA Mission:Orange, through which we will teach our successful no-kill model to other communities throughout the country in order to save more homeless animals from dying. Click here to learn more about Mission: Orange.

• Share with your friends, family, co-workers and neighbors the benefits of adopting an orphaned pet from the Richmond SPCA and encourage them to look to the Robins-Starr Humane Center when in search of a canine or feline companion to enrich their lives. Click here to learn more about our adoption program.
• Visit our For Kids Web page and find an activity that your child can do at the Richmond SPCA during his or her summer vacation or throughout the school year.

In my experience this would be a question asked a million times by my children, pets and husband.  I have enjoyed a great riding dog once in my life, but he was miserable when we got where we were headed.  But as the travel industry accommodates those of you who are blessed with pets who are wonderful travelers, here are a few things to keep in mind.
• Plan ahead and accustom your pet to a crate, seatbelt, harness or any other equipment that you may be intending to use that you don’t use on a regular basis at home.
• Don’t let them hang out the windows and get something in their eyes or up their nose.  Secure them in the vehicle.  And don’t let them ride in the back of the truck where they will surely be injured in an accident.
• Be sure they are well identified with at least collar and tags.  Take current pictures with you in case they unintentionally get loose.  Have any current medications with you as well as copies of their veterinary records in case of illness.  If your pet has a chronic medical condition, you may want to research veterinarians at your destination in case of emergency.
• Be sure to call ahead to make sure your destination accepts pets. If traveling outside the United States be aware of the need for health certificates, vaccination records, quarantine periods and possibly permanent identification like microchips.
• If traveling by airplane, be sure to book a separate reservation for your pet.  There are restrictions on the number and size of pets in the cabin.  Cargo held carriers are restricted based on the temperature outside and the length of the flight.  Increased airport security has restricted certain breeds from flying at all. Usually water is not allowed in their crates/kennels.
• Most trains and bus lines only allow service dogs but some cruise lines do accommodate pets.
• Always remember that taking our pets on vacation is a privilege, and we need to be responsible.  Pick up after pets and ask if the property has a preference for where you walk your dog as well as where you dispose of waste.  Keep them under control.  Be honest about whether your pet is obedient and friendly.  What you may consider friendly another guest may consider annoying.  Keep them clean.  Dry them off and wipe their feet before they track through your hotel lobby.  Cover furniture and beds with old sheets from home so that staff does not have to keep up with pet hair.  If they need a bath, use your towels from home and clean up the tub or shower.
• Lastly, unless it is a trip that your pet must make with you (like a permanent move), if he needs a tranquilizer you may want to reconsider taking him. Perhaps he is trying to tell you he’d rather stay home. Although we can medicate pets to keep them quiet and prevent carsickness, these little guys may not be the best traveling companions.  Discuss your options with your veterinarian well in advance of your trip so you can do a trial run with any prescribed medications.   
There are numerous websites and publications on traveling with your pets.  The possibilities are endless, and if you include your pets in all the planning, reservations and preparations then I am sure all of you will have a wonderful vacation. 

Today’s blog was written by Dr. Angela Ivey, director of veterinary medicine at the Richmond SPCA. Dr. Ivey spent many years in private veterinary practice before joining the medical staff at the Richmond SPCA in 2004.

Many of us enjoy vacationing away from home.  Traveling to a relatively far off destination with beautiful sunsets and fun places to eat helps relieve the stress of the daily grind.  Unfortunately, our pets don’t always get that memo ahead of time.  Because our pets are typically so unassuming, it’s easy for us to forget to help them prepare. 

If your pet is used to traveling in a car and staying overnight at new locations, he will probably be fine with little warning.  If this is your pet’s first trip away from home, though, you can do a few things to ensure a safe and happy ride. 

• Remember that the trip to your veterinarian is probably not as long as the ride to your vacation destination.  Take a medium-length Sunday drive in the car with your pet sometime before you embark on your planned travels.  Make note of any unusual behavior from your pet.  If your pet is typically a gregarious housemate, but rides in the car with his head tucked under the arm rest, find ways to help him relax.  Call or e-mail our , if you run short of ideas.

• Make sure to secure your pet with a seatbelt or in a crate.  Also secure your luggage to prevent it falling on your pet.  Never let your dog ride loose among your luggage and beach gear.  One short stop to avoid an accident may cause a serious accident inside your vehicle. 

• You may even want to book a room at a local hotel for one night before your planned trip to make sure he’ll be able to settle down in a hotel room.  Some pets find it very disconcerting to sleep in a new location even if you’re with them.  Your expense will be far greater if you find out on the first night of your week-long vacation that your pet will not be resting.  At least if you know what to expect, you can take precautions.

With a few extra steps, you’ll be able to enjoy your vacation AND your pet’s company.

Today’s blog author is Marie Tripton. Marie is the manager of the Richmond SPCA’s Behavior Helpline. Call the helpline at 643-SPCA or e-mail her at . 

When you schedule your first vacation after adding a pet to your family, a new aspect of planning arises: What will you do with Fluffy or Fido while you’re away? If you have a cat, it’s likely he wouldn’t appreciate tagging along, but many families wouldn’t consider vacationing without their dogs, and hotels and vacation companies are getting on board by offering pet-friendly packages.

Your pets’ personalities as well as your vacation choices play into how feasible it is to take them along. My little family consists of my husband, myself, a Lhasa-Apso named Sunny (Richmond SPCA alumna) and a Rottweiler named Freida. While the two dogs are surprisingly great companions to each other, their personalities are as dissimilar as their sizes. Each is a regular fixture on certain excursions.

When we visit my mom in Mississippi each Christmas, Sunny is always along for the ride and eagerly welcomed. Freida stays home for a couple of reasons: asking even a close family member to host an 80 lb. dog is a strain and there would be little room for luggage with both dogs crowding the back seat. However, the tables are turned when we head to the Outer Banks in the summer. We reserve a pet-friendly cottage for the week, and Freida is the first to hit the beach each day. This is not Sunny’s cup of tea. Even with her short summer haircut, salt water and sand would make for a grooming nightmare for the little Lhasa – that would be if we could even convince her to go close to the surf. She’s much happier staying home with her auntie, who maintains her normal routine and pampers her in the A/C.

Our most recent rental package even included temporary ID tags with the 800 number for the rental company and the number of our cottage. We appreciated this thoughtful bonus, even though Freida already sports tags engraved with both of our cell phone numbers. Regardless of which dog is traveling, we always bring her crate along, and they seem grateful for the familiar refuge.

Today’s blog author is Tabitha Hanes. Tabitha is the community relations manager for the Richmond SPCA.

In most disaster situations, being prepared and able to move quickly is most important.  Having all your pets’ records and supplies ready to go and in one easily accessible place prevents anything being left behind.  Taking these steps before a disaster will help you and your pet weather any storm.

Identification on your pets’ crate or carrier will ensure that a scared pet is properly identified in an emergency. Appropriate ID includes your pet’s name, your name, your address and contact phone numbers.  This information can be written on plastic crates and ID tags can be attached to wire crates.  An ID tag, Rabies tag, and local licensure should also be attached to collars of dogs and cats.  A well-fitting harness is more difficult for a dog to slip out of, though a breakaway collar will ensure your cat remains safe should he get tangled in debris.  Pets with special medical conditions can wear additional identification, or you may mark the pet’s crate to indicate his condition. 
Have your pets’ vaccination records handy. These will be required at boarding kennels, shelters, and some pet-friendly hotels.  Carry information on your pets’ medical conditions as well as an ample supply of their medications.  If your pet has a microchip, make sure all the contact information is correct and up to date. Notify the microchip company of any temporary phone number and address, and include a secondary contact, such as an out-of-town friend or family member, in case communication lines are affected by the disaster. Keep a copy of the microchip number assigned to your pets.  A current photograph of you and your pet will aid in your pet’s reunion, should you be separated.  If possible, make plans with an out of town emergency contact.  A friend or family member who could house your pet, if needed, for an extended period of time would be ideal.

Click here for more tips on including your pets in your disaster plans.

As of June 1, hurricane season is upon us. While hurricanes certainly aren’t the only disasters or emergencies for which to prepare yourself and your pets, for many pet parents, the need for a disaster plan for their pets was tragically dramatized in the images of lost pets in the wake of Hurricane Katrina.
We recommend that all pet parents put together a disaster kit

that they keep handy year round. A key item on that list is a crate or carrier, but it’s most useful if your pet is slowly aclimated to being confined.
If you help your pet appreciate the comfort of a crate or carrier, transporting your pet during a disaster will be far less stressful.  Your pet is less likely to escape from a carrier than a leash or your arms, especially when you are operating under the stress of an impending disaster.  Handing your pet to someone else temporarily is less risky for the person if your pet is confined.  Your pet is at less risk of being accidentally poked, prodded or stepped on if he is protected by a crate.  Your pet can be safely transported near several unfamiliar pets when in his own carrier.
Consider these factors when purchasing a crate or carrier to use during times of disaster.

·    Size:  Ideally the crate or carrier would be just big enough for your pet to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably. 

·    Plastic vs. Wire:  The top removes from most plastic crates relatively easily, in case your pet has to be quickly removed.  Plastic also leaves less openings for fingers or sticks to accidentally invade your pet’s space. 

·    Collapsible vs. Drop Pin:  If you choose a wire crate, remember a collapsible crate actually stays together more consistently than a drop-pin crate, meaning you’re less likely to find yourself without a vital part in case an emergency does arise.

·    Hard vs. Soft.  Soft carriers are more attractive, but hard carriers will better protect your pet from any falling debris.
Once you have acquired your crate, start training as early as possible at home.  Remember, a crate should not be a punishment tool for your pet—it should be a safety zone.  It should be soft inside, warm and comfortable – preferably lined with a bath mat or other non-slipping bed.  During training, avoid closing the door for even a few seconds until your pet is comfortable resting in their portable home at home with the door open.  There are plenty of materials available these days - on-line or in book stores - that detail steps to help your pet acclimate to a crate or carrier.  You can even call or e-mail our if you run into a snag in your training. 

Today’s blog author is Marie Tripton. Marie is the manager of the Richmond SPCA’s Behavior Helpline. Call the helpline at 643-SPCA or e-mail her at .

Until last fall, I never had to consider boarding our pets when making travel plans because my antisocial cats could care less about our absence as long as they were being fed! Pet sitters always did the trick.

I now have a wonderful Doberman Pinscher, whom I adopted from the Richmond SPCA and whom I feel most comfortable boarding when my family is on vacation.  He likes other dogs, is great with strangers (when he’s not at home guarding his turf!) and is beautifully crate trained. 

I’ll give you my pet parent/veterinarian perspective and touch on a few of the points that our two earlier blogs this week already mentioned:

·      Do not wait until the last minute to schedule your pet’s boarding – great kennels book up fast even when it is not a holiday or weekend.

·      Be sure the boarding facility is okay with you bringing your own food, bedding and toys.  We put our dog’s food in individual baggies by meals and also take his own treats since he tends to get diarrhea with a food change.  The kennel we use is great and sends his bedding back already cleaned.

·      Be sure your pet has identification in case of the rare opportunity for escape.  Let the boarding kennel know if your dog is fearful of his crate or can climb or jump fences.  Inspect the kennel in advance to see if any of the things he could get out of are an issue.  We boarded a dog once at our old practice who could open her run door as well as the kennel door!

·      Be prepared to give proof of all of your pet’s current vaccinations and call in advance to see what the boarding facility requires.

·      Come with your pet’s medications if the boarding kennel needs them, but always check in advance how this is handled and if there is an additional charge for administering them.

·      Be sure that your veterinarian knows you are on vacation and communicate to both him or her and the boarding kennel your wishes for handling emergencies if you are not reachable.

·      Be realistic.  Even the top of the line kennels and veterinary practices have well vaccinated dogs that get a different type of kennel cough than the one we vaccinate for.  The best dog in the world (or mine) will chew his collar in half.  They don’t always eat all the food you send, so don’t assume they didn’t feed him.  They come back really worn out from all the excitement and the different routine (ours will sleep for days – not a bad thing for the cat).  And some of them still get a stress-induced diarrhea even eating their normal food.

So go ahead and make your travel plans but include your pet in the planning.  Once you find the perfect boarding facility, take care of them and their staff.  I tip the groomer, book our reservations in advance, send them a Christmas card from the dog and always pick him up on time.  In fact I take better care of them than I do the babysitter for my kids!

Today’s blog was written by Dr. Angela Ivey, director of veterinary medicine at the Richmond SPCA. Dr. Ivey spent many years in private veterinary practice before joining the medical staff at the Richmond SPCA in 2004.

If this is the first time in a long time you have spent a night away from your pet, take some time to prepare.  Give your solution a trial run or two before you depart - for your sake, for your pet’s sake, and for the caretaker’s sake.  You will all rest more easily when you have a better idea of how your pet will react.  Even if your pet is the gregarious type, maybe he’s always met others by your side.  Your pet may panic when asked to meet others without you.  Or he may panic when the lights go out and he’s not in his regular bed.  A bit of stress is not unusual in a new environment.  Your pet’s caretaker will be stuck, though, if your pet goes into a complete panic and you’re not in town.  It’s not unusual for a dog to ferociously prevent a human friend from entering the home when you aren’t there; or for a cat to hiss at someone they are usually friends with if they are left alone for a few days. 

And, by the way, it’s a wise idea to practice letting your pet stay at home, at a friend’s, or at a boarding facility without you even if you’re not planning on going out of town any time soon.  You may unexpectedly encounter an emergency situation in which your pet will not be able to stay at home with you.  In a weather emergency, if you must be hospitalized, or if a family member becomes seriously ill, you will not have an opportunity to practice or prepare.

If you need help developing a plan to help your pet better tolerate your absence, call our Behavior Helpline at 643-6785.  Your veterinarian may also be able to provide some pharmaceutical aids until your pet feels more comfortable.  Knowing your pet is comfortable in his over-night accommodations will help make your vacation more relaxing.

Today’s blog author is Marie Tripton. Marie is the manager of the Richmond SPCA’s Behavior Helpline. Call the helpline at 643-SPCA or e-mail her at .

Summer is here, and I’m sure everyone is itching to get away for vacation.  There’s just one problem… what should you do with your four-legged family member?  If he isn’t going with you, then you have two primary options: you can board your pet at a facility or find a pet sitter.  When boarding a pet, most people will go to a boarding kennel, but you may also check with your veterinarian. 

Our pets are members of our family, and it’s important that we find the right kennel for them and any special needs they may have.  We should ask questions of the facility such as:  What is your feeding schedule like?  What accommodations do you have for my pets (i.e. comfort level, bedding, etc.)?  How much exercise will my pet get and will it be individual or in a play group?  How much human interaction will my pet have throughout the day?  What’s the length of time my pet will be left alone in the facility?  Make sure to clearly communicate any special needs of your pet to the kennel employees so that they understand any dietary, medical or behavioral issues.

If your preference is to keep your pets at home, consider finding a reliable pet sitter. For some of you, you might have a close friend, neighbor or family member willing to take on this responsibility.  Or you might need to hire someone whom you feel will be responsible in caring for your beloved pets.  Take into consideration whether your pet needs an in-house sitter or if he is independent enough to just have someone stop by to feed him, visit and let him out to relieve himself throughout the day.  Once this decision is made, you will want to go over your pet’s daily routine as well as any issues or special needs of your pet.  Always leave instructions for your pet sitter along with contact information for his vet and for you while you are on vacation.

Feel free to contact the Richmond SPCA or your local veterinarian to inquire about reputable businesses that can help ease your mind and care for your pet while you get the rest and relaxation you deserve on your summer vacation.

Today’s blog author is Gerry Strong. Gerry is the adoption center manager at the Richmond SPCA.

Since we are discussing lost and found pets this week, I figured one of us should touch on the topic of finding a dog or cat roaming at large.  It goes without saying that you should approach this situation with a fair amount of caution.  In a perfect situation it would be better to just stand back and observe since it may be a dog or cat just passing through on his way home.  You may have the option of safely barricading the roamer until you can call the local animal control agency who is better-equipped to handle strays.  But in our Good Samaritan nature, we feel like we must do something to help, and here are a few things I have learned through the years:

Let the stray dog or cat come to you. As he approaches, you may be able to see if he has a collar.  Tags may help you with the owner’s information, a traceable county or city license number, a traceable rabies tag number through the veterinarian or clinic that gave it, or if you are really lucky the identification number for the microchip the pet may have.  Microchips are identification placed under the animal’s skin that is then readable by a scanner. When the microchip has been registered in the company’s database, information is available to link the pet back to his owner.  There are several different kinds, and your veterinarian can supply you with the information for purchase, placement and registration.  Some animals may also have visible tattoos inside their ears or inside their back legs that may help with identification.  You may also come across the roaming hunting dog with a number on his side from either hair dye or bleach.  These numbers as well as tattoos really only help with identification since they are nearly impossible to trace to an owner with unless they are actively looking for the animal.

If you are sure that the dog or cat is friendly, and you can safely transport him, it is always best to take him to either the city or county animal control agency in the area where you found him, since that is where the owner will likely look first.  Be sure to let the animal control officers know you found the pet as a stray, so they hold it for the required stray period.  Be very careful about letting strays around your own pets since you do not know what disease or parasites they may carry.

Start watching for “lost” flyers around the neighborhood even after you take the pet to animal control.  You can contact the owners and let them know which shelter you took him to.  Stolen pets can get loose and be roaming a long way from home.

If you do happen to find that really sweet stray, do actively try to find the owners who will be desperately missing the a member of their family.  There are internet search engines that help reunite lost pets with their families. A lot of newspapers will place “found pet” ads for no charge.  Your veterinarian or animal shelter will be glad to scan the pet for a microchip.  And you can distribute your own found pet flyers.

And a few more tips if you have lost your dog or cat:

Please physically visit the local shelters.  You cannot trust that what you are calling a retriever mix will not to the overworked shelter employees look more like a hound mix.  I know of several incidences where the shelter had a description or even picture of the pet but it was not reunited with the owner until they actually walked through the facility and looked at all the animals. Take current pictures (we all should have them just in case) to all the shelters in a wide area around where your pet was lost.  Take pictures to the post office so letter carriers can be on the look out as well as meter readers, school bus drivers, the department of transportation, your trash pick-up providers, UPS and FedEx.  Also take pictures and flyers to the local pet stores and veterinary offices since the person who found your pet may feel a little guilty about keeping her when they see you are looking for her.

And it is worth saying again that in this instance an ounce of prevention is invaluable.  Be careful with your companions, and if they do unfortunately get loose, be sure they are identifiable.  There are innumerable stories of pet and owner reunions after they traveled for miles or were gone for years.  Take the steps to make sure your story has a happy ending. 

Today’s blog was written by Dr. Angela Ivey, director of veterinary medicine at the Richmond SPCA. Dr. Ivey spent many years in private veterinary practice before joining the medical staff at the Richmond SPCA in 2004.

Did you know that pets are most likely to escape or run away in the first week in a new home?  This is not because they don’t want to be with you, but because they are unfamiliar with their new surroundings.  Strange noises and strange people at your doorway may cause even the calmest dog to head for the hills.  While most people might remember to snap a leash on a gregarious and speedy puppy, even shy quiet canines need a sense of security in a new environment.  Help your dog to bond with his new family before taking any chances with unsupervised outdoor time. 

And while most people don’t typically leash their cats, new owners want to be especially sure that doors and windows don’t get left open during kitty’s first week home.  Your cat may go into hiding for a few days, but you want to be certain she is hiding inside your house—and not outside or elsewhere in the neighborhood.

Keep in mind that your pet’s initial car ride home can provide opportunities for escape.  With small dogs and cats, the use of a crate or carrier box is highly recommended for travel.  Resist the temptation to open the crate (even a little) until you and the pet are safely inside your home.  Larger dogs should be fitted with a snug collar and leash before you open the car door.  Consider taking an extra person to help with the transition.  If you don’t have that extra person, make a separate trip from the car to get any supplies you may have purchased.  Besides, you will want both hands free to unroll the welcome mat for your new family member.

Today’s blog author is Marie Tripton. Marie is the manager of the Richmond SPCA’s Behavior Helpline. Call the helpline at 643-SPCA or her.

One of the worst feelings in the world is the ache in your stomach that you get when you realize that your pet is lost. Here at the Richmond SPCA, we see and hear about these heart-wrenching events every week. Accidents can definitely happen, but there are measures that can be taken to help reduce the risk of losing your pet.

1. Always have an id tag on his collar. Every dog and cat that we adopt out leaves our facility with a tag. That tag has an ID number that can be traced back to the animal. Anyone who finds him can contact us, and we in turn will help reunite him with his adopted parents. You should also have a tag that has your own contact info as well as the pet’s name.

2. Make sure that you have your pet fitted with the right equipment. This applies primarily to dogs, although even indoor cats should be fitted with a break-away collar and tag. Make sure that you fit your dog with the right collar or harness. For example, if you have a dog who pulls out of a standard collar, then we would recommend a Martingale collar that is made to tighten if he tries to pull back on the leash. Our Lora Robins Gift Shop carries a variety of collars and harnesses. Please ask us which might serve you best.

3. Pick a pet who is well-suited to your environment. If you have a four-foot, chain-link fence, you might not want a very active and jumpy dog like a Border Collie or Australian Shepard. Another example is if you aren’t a very active person, and can’t handle a strong pulling dog look for one who may be a little more docile.

4. Lastly, if you are unfortunate enough to lose your pet, you need to know the best route to take to try and get them back. Every locality has an animal control agency that is charged with impounding stray animals. Many people come to us to see if their pet has been turned in. We keep a lost and found book where we are happy to update information about your pet, but we don’t take in stray animals. People who have lost or found a pet are directed to their local animal control. Flyers and ads certainly don’t hurt, and you can even ask you vet for help; however in more cases than not, if some Good Samaritan doesn’t find your pet, then animal control will. In the city of Richmond, call 646-5573. In Chesterfield County, call 748-1683. In Hanover County, call 365-6485. In Henrico County, call 652-3360.

Today’s blog author is Gerry Strong. Gerry is the adoption center manager at the Richmond SPCA.

You know that “Life Comes At You Fast” commercial? Well, that’s how I feel every time I walk into our kitten room.  The nursing mama cats with close to 40 infant kittens who initially all fit in one room have now grown to kittens who take up a lot more space.  Not to mention the fact that we have continued to take in kittens in all age ranges as these little ones have gotten bigger by the minute.  Even though the Richmond SPCA has fixed nearly 15,000 cats since October of 2004, there are still homeless kittens being born in our community.  I shudder to think of how many more orphaned cats would be out there without everyone’s efforts to control the population through spaying and neutering. 

With our pediatric sterilization techniques, we can fix these little guys as young as eight weeks of age and as small as two pounds.  That makes them available for adoption at a very early age, and we so want to get them into good homes.  As they are adopted, we have the space to bring in others. Once they are into homes, they are no longer exposed to the germs that we try so hard to isolate them from. And they are into a home environment at that ever-so-important age of socialization that makes them great pets.
So if you have been thinking about adopting a kitten, the time is drawing near when we will have them coming up in every color and variety available.  Just remember, they will grow into adolescent and adult cats rather than stay those little fuzz balls.  Remember too that we still have those adolescents, adults and seniors to find homes for also. 

Today’s blog was written by Dr. Angela Ivey, director of veterinary medicine at the Richmond SPCA. Dr. Ivey spent many years in private veterinary practice before joining the medical staff at the Richmond SPCA in 2004. 

Imagine you are blind-folded and taken to the most beautiful, peaceful island you have ever seen, far, far away from your familiar stomping grounds.  Only a few people reside on this island and their main purpose seems to be providing you food and making you comfortable.  They don’t speak your language, but they are always happy to see you.  All around are beautiful flora, fascinating fauna, pools of water and breathtaking views.  The weather is always wonderful.  Somewhere in the middle of this island lies the one and only restroom, and you must find out when and where the food will be delivered.  Now imagine you are only 8 weeks old, and a cat. 

A new home to an adopted kitten can seem like paradise.  Sometimes the beauty and space are so overwhelming it becomes almost frightening to a kitten.  And unfortunately, they are not yet old enough to consider the location of the potty or the safety of their surroundings. 

Be your kitten’s guide to “Fantasy Island.”  Set up a home base for him – a room with a comfy bed, a litter box, and food and water.  Take short excursions with him to new areas of “the island” until you are sure he’s comfortable exploring on his own and returning to his home base.  That way even though you don’t speak the same language, your kitten will always be happy to see you, too.

Today’s blog author is Marie Tripton. Marie is the manager of the Richmond SPCA’s Behavior Helpline. Call the helpline at 643-SPCA or her.