Give So They Stay Campaign Update From Zoo Atlanta

The rain has died down at Zoo Atlanta, but Pandamonium rages on. Despite torrential downpours preceding historic flooding in the metro Atlanta area, several hundred faithful giant panda fans bravely donned ponchos for the Zoo’s giant panda birthday celebration on Saturday, September 19. The weather had no dampening effect on guest excitement: a raffle for an exclusive behind-the-scenes raised more than $2,300 on the day of the event. The lucky grand prize winners were Andrea Rafferty of Roswell, Ga., and Robert Kesler of Douglasville, Ga.

Meanwhile, the Give So They Stay campaign continues to generate overwhelming momentum in the community. Partners at Esperanza recently donated their talent and creativity to seven new T-shirt designs created with the campaign in mind. Members of the public are invited to vote for their favorite designs on www.metromix.com. Voting will continue through September 29, 2009. All T-shirt sales from the winning designs will benefit the campaign.

There’s even more Pandamonium in store for the month of October. Beginning October 5, Zoo Atlanta will host an exclusive online auction to benefit Give So They Stay. The auction will feature an exciting collection of priceless giant panda memorabilia; unique collector’s items; once-in-a-lifetime opportunities; exotic getaways and more. The auction goes live on October 5 on www.biddingforgood.com. Bidding continues through October 31.

As of September 22, Zoo Atlanta had collected a total of $132,225 toward the campaign, which continues through December 31, 2009.

-----
www.fayettefrontpage.com
Fayette Front Page
www.georgiafrontpage.com
Georgia Front Page
www.artsacrossgeorgia.com
Arts Across Georgia

From The White House To Your House: Put Your Puppy On A Path To True Wellness

NAPSI)-The Obamas, like many other new dog families, have learned that the first year with their new puppy, Portuguese Water Dog Bo, is both a rewarding and challenging time.

Celebrity pet expert Andrea Arden shares her advice for how any family can raise a healthy dog who fits well into the family if they establish a routine of providing superior nutrition and exercise, along with regular veterinary check-ups right from the start.

"The family's first year with a new pup is full of wonderful experiences," she says. "Pet parents can provide a strong foundation for lifetime wellness-even if they don't live in the White House."

Here are Andrea Arden's tips to help new dog owners do the best for their pets:

Eat Right

The most important thing pet parents can do for their new puppies is feed them a food that not just meets but exceeds basic nutritional needs. It's vital that puppies start their life on the right path by putting their best paw forward and eating superior, natural pet food. "I feed Wellness® Natural Pet Food to my own dogs," says Andrea, "because they carefully select pure, simple, authentic ingredients. Each ingredient has a purpose and I trust their foods to provide the foundation of my dog's well-being."

For instance, Wellness® Just for Puppy and Wellness Super5Mix® Large Breed Puppy Health foods and snacks contain the essential nutrients for puppy brain, vision and nervous system development: natural fish oils and fish meal, the leading sources of DHA, a natural Omega-3 fatty acid. With one of the highest levels of DHA available, they provide the nutritional profile that puppies require to thrive.

Regular Visits to the Vet

Because our dogs can't talk to us, it's important to pay attention to subtle changes in their behavior and/or physical appearance as these could be the first indicator of a developing health issue. It's essential to schedule newly adopted dogs for regular annual examinations by a trusted veterinarian. Vet visits are absolutely necessary to maintain the highest level of care for your new dog.

Get Lots of Exercise

Exercise is essential for a dog's happy and long life. Exercise doesn't have to be strenuous in order to be beneficial to their well-being, but regular exercise is key. Set aside a brief period of time daily dedicated to physical activity for your dog. Doing this on a regular basis also gives your pup something to look forward to and strengthens their bond with you.

Establish a Bond

The bonding process between dog and owner is a critical one. Spend regular one-on-one time together where your new dog has your complete focus and attention. Daily training sessions, reinforcement of good behavior, even brushing your dog daily will build a routine, cementing a bond with your pup for years to come.

These tips will help you enjoy a great new puppy experience and will guarantee a lifetime of true wellness for your pet.

For more information, visit wellnesspetfood.com.

-----
www.fayettefrontpage.com
Fayette Front Page
www.georgiafrontpage.com
Georgia Front Page

Become a Superhero: Celebrate Adopt-A-Dog Month(R) This October

/PRNewswire/ -- You can become a hero to a dog this October by observing and celebrating the American Humane Association's Adopt-A-Dog Month(R) event. Millions of dogs in shelters are facing an uncertain fate, and many more are joining them each day due to the effects of the recession on pet owners. But there are simple steps each of us can take to make a difference in these dogs' lives.

Save the day for a homeless dog -- and find a faithful companion who will be at your side for all of life's adventures -- by adopting a dog from a shelter or breed-rescue group during October. It's the perfect time to visit the shelter, meet potential sidekicks and discover how much fun and happiness a dog can add to your life.

Companionship, improved physical and emotional health, social interaction and devoted love are just a few of the super-size benefits of having a dog. Dogs also encourage people to exercise, enhance family and social relationships, promote laughter and act as a nonjudgmental audience and sounding board.

Bringing a dog into your home is a lifetime commitment (the dog's lifetime, that is) and can require immense lifestyle adjustments for everyone in the family. If you aren't ready to adopt, but still want to make a difference for homeless dogs, here are some other ways to celebrate Adopt-A-Dog Month:

Volunteer: Shelters and rescue groups are always looking for dependable people who can help in almost any way. Are you good at taking pictures or working on websites? Offer to take appealing photos of adoptable dogs and post them on the organization's website. Do you have a way with words? Volunteer your time to help edit the organization's newsletter or website. We all have something to offer; we just need to ask how we can help!

Support: While financial support is always welcome, your donation of blankets, toys, dog food and volunteer time are just a few of the things you can offer homeless dogs in your community. You can also make contributions to help fund grants that are available to community shelters and rescue groups through American Humane's Second Chance Fund and its Foreclosure Pets Grant. These grants help abused, neglected, abandoned or relinquished pets and are funded entirely by donations, so your support goes directly to help these animals get the care they need to survive.

"Right now there is a greater need than ever for people to go to a shelter and find their new best friend," said Marie Belew Wheatley, American Humane president and CEO. "The nation's economy is negatively impacting community shelters and rescue organizations, filling them to capacity many times over. This October, we hope people will renew their commitment to help these animals that are so in need of forever homes."

-----
www.fayettefrontpage.com
Fayette Front Page
www,georgiafrontpage.com
Georgia Front Page

Animal Shelter Dogs Putting Best Paws Forward During 'Adopt a Shelter Dog Month'

/PRNewswire/ -- The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) and the American Humane Society promote October as "Adopt a Shelter Dog" month. Statistics state that 5-7 million pets wind up in 5000 shelters each year. Of those shelter pets, 3-4 million are euthanized. With the current economic downturn, more pets are in shelters because owners can no longer afford them.

In an effort to increase adoptions during "Adopt a Shelter Dog" month, Wag'n Tails is enlisting the support of their grooming van owners to groom as many shelter dogs as possible. They are providing free grooming services to animal shelters in October.

The goal is to give professional doggie "make-overs" by expert pet stylists at local shelters. "If we can increase the odds of a dog finding a loving home by giving it groom from a professional stylist then we are willing to do what we can," said Wag'n Tails President Dennis Gnetz.

"The statistics are just so appalling; we surveyed our van owners and most agreed that we should organize this effort. Our grooming van owners provide support like this already but they said we should try to maximize results," Gnetz added.

Wag'n Tails has added an incentive to the effort. The owner that grooms the most shelter pets in October will be awarded a 5 day vacation at a beautiful Caribbean destination resort courtesy of Wag'n Tails.

Wag'n Tails Founder Dina Perry will be grooming dogs in the Granger, Indiana area in October. "I have always supported shelters near my pet related businesses over the years and I'm excited to participate," Perry said.

-----
www.fayettefrontpage.com
Fayette Front Page
www.georgiafrontpage.com
Georgia Front Page

Top tips for a healthy, happy dog

(ARA) – No matter how many canine companions you have or what their ages are, every day is a new opportunity to make their lives happier and healthier. Keep a few simple tips in mind and you’re sure to get four paws up.

Food and water
It’s crucial to always keep a bowl of water available for your dog to make sure they stay properly hydrated, but not just any water will do. Fill your dog’s bowl with fresh water every single day and remember to clean the water bowl regularly to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria that could sicken your furry friend. For healthier, great-tasting water, use a pitcher filtration system.

Equally important is the dog food in the bowl next to the water dish. Eating poor-quality food on a daily basis can dramatically impact your dog’s health in the same way eating fried foods frequently can negatively affect your overall health. “Do your research and read labels before deciding on which food to feed your dog,” says nationally renowned veterinarian Dr. Marty Becker. “If some of the first ingredients listed are proteins, then you’ve found a quality recipe.”

Nutro Ultra food for dogs features the Ultrassential Superfood Blend. Superfoods are nutrient-dense whole foods containing high levels of antioxidants, vitamins and minerals. Common superfoods that are beneficial for both humans and canines include tomatoes, spinach, blueberries, carrots and flaxseed. “Some of the benefits of feeding ‘superfoods’ to dogs can include: a healthy skin and coat which comes from essential fatty acids, lean muscle mass from high-quality proteins, strong teeth and bones from calcium and a strong immune system from antioxidant-rich foods,” says Becker.

When it’s time to treat your best buddy, make sure the treats are high-quality and made specifically for dogs. Remember that treats add calories to your dog’s diet so don’t give too many. Human food can be unhealthy for canines (even deadly, in the case of certain foods like chocolate, grapes and raisins), but if you can’t resist a “people” snack, try giving him a few fresh vegetables like a small carrot or green bean. “A good guideline is that treats should not make up more than 10 percent of your dog’s diet,” says Becker.

Playtime
The average dog needs about 20-30 minutes of daily exercise or vigorous activity. Just like humans, inactive dogs can suffer from weight gain, muscle loss and even depression and disease. Take your dog for at least one walk every day (it’s good for you too), run around the yard or at an off-leash dog park and have fun playing fetch or tug of war.

To help keep playtime fun, make sure your dog knows basic commands (sit, stay and drop it, for example) and be consistent in using them. Encourage good behavior with lots of positive attention and correct mistakes immediately by redirecting your dog to the correct behavior. Never physically punish your dog as it can lead to aggression and fear biting.

Health
Most cities require dogs to have their shots and be licensed. Make sure to bring your dog to the veterinarian annually (or as recommended) and keep him up to date on shots and medications. Brush your dog’s teeth regularly (at least once per week) to prevent gum disease, the buildup of plaque and costly canine dental procedures down the line.

For more information, visit UltraHolistic.com.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

-----
www.fayettefrontpage.com
Fayette Front Page
www.georgiafrontpage.com
Georgia Front Page
www.artsacrossgeorgia.com
Arts Across Georgia

Tobacco Is Toxic For Toto, Too

(NAPSI)-Anyone who is both a smoker and a pet owner can do one very important thing to protect the animal's life and his or her own: Quit smoking. A growing body of research--including the Surgeon General's report--shows there are no safe levels of exposure to secondhand smoke, for humans or for animals.

Toxins in secondhand smoke can cause lung and nasal cancer in dogs and lymphoma in cats, plus allergy and respiratory problems for other pets. Yet nearly 30 percent of pet owners live with at least one smoker.

That's why some groups are asking smokers with pets to "take it outside" or, even better, kick the habit altogether.

"While most Americans have been educated about the dangers of smoking to their own bodies and their children's, it is also important that pet owners take action to protect their beloved domestic animals from the dangers of secondhand smoke," said Dr. Cheryl G. Healton, DrPH, president and CEO of the American Legacy Foundation, the national independent public health foundation dedicated to keeping young people from smoking and providing resources to smokers who want to quit.

"Nicotine from secondhand smoke can affect the nervous systems of cats and dogs," said Dr. Sharon Gwaltney-Brant, medical director of the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals' (ASPCA) Animal Poison Control Center. "Environmental tobacco smoke has been shown to contain numerous cancer-causing compounds, making it hazardous for animals as well as humans. Studies have shown increases in certain types of respiratory cancers in dogs that live in homes with smokers."

The groups hope pet owners who smoke will be motivated to quit once they learn about the dangers to their pets. The foundation provides resources and information to smokers who want to quit for good through a national campaign called EX--as in ex-smoker. It encourages smokers to approach quitting smoking as "re-learning life without cigarettes," which may include putting that cigarette out the next time they take the dog for a walk.

For more information, visit www.becomeanex.org. To join or view the community of smokers who are quitting for the sake of their pets, visit http://community.becomeanex.org/group/quittingforourpets or call 1-800-QUIT-NOW.


-----
www.fayettefrontpage.com
Fayette Front Page
www.georgiafrontpage.com
Georgia Front Page

Groups Request Expansion of Critical Habitat for the Endangered North Atlantic Right Whale

Earlier this week, conservation and animal welfare groups filed a formal request to expand protected habitat for the critically endangered North Atlantic right whale. The petition, filed with the National Marine Fisheries Service, demonstrates scientific support for expanding existing critical habitat in areas that are essential to feeding, mating, calving, nursing and migration for the fewer than 400 North Atlantic right whales remaining in existence.

NMFS has publicly stated that the death of a single right whale may contribute to the species' extinction. Researchers predict right whales are certain to go extinct if the current rate of mortality and serious injury continues. However, saving just two female right whales a year could put the species on a positive path for recovery.

"Every single right whale counts when it comes to ensuring this species' survival," said Sharon Young, marine issues field director for The Humane Society of the United States. "Protecting the right whale's vital feeding, nursery and migratory habitat is the most basic, common-sense step toward moving this species out of the emergency room and onto the path to recovery."

The groups charge that current critical habitat boundaries are inadequate to provide for the survival and recovery of one of the most endangered animals on the planet. Once an area is designated as critical habitat, federal agencies must ensure that their actions will not adversely modify or destroy such habitat.

"Saying you're protecting right whales without sufficiently protecting their habitat is akin to saying you are going to protect sunfish while you drain the pond," said Regina Asmutis-Silvia, senior biologist with the Whale and Dolphin Conservation Society. "Without protecting the places where right whales live, we cannot, in reality, save the species."

"Expanding critical habitat for right whales will ensure that we make intelligent, well-informed decisions about how we use and share our country's marine resources," said Sierra Weaver, attorney with Defenders of Wildlife. "This isn't about walling off the ocean, but rather about looking closely at the impacts of our actions on one of our most iconic wildlife species."

The groups request that three areas used by North Atlantic right whales for essential life functions be added as critical habitat. The petition seeks to expand critical habitat in the whales' only known calving grounds off the coast of northern Florida, Georgia and South Carolina, and in the whales' feeding and nursery grounds throughout the Gulf of Maine. The petition also calls for adding the migration route between the calving and wintering grounds as critical habitat.

"The current critical habitat designated for right whales only protects bits and pieces of the most essential feeding and nursery habitat for the species, and doesn't protect migratory habitat at all," said Andrea Treece, senior attorney with the Center for Biological Diversity. "If we're going to save the right whale, we have to provide a way for right whale mothers to safely shepherd their young between feeding and nursery grounds."

Despite being listed as endangered since the early 1970s, right whales continue to face serious threats throughout their range. Fishing gear entanglement and vessel strikes are the two most significant threats, killing or injuring at least 18 whales since 2004. Other threats include noise from vessel traffic, marine construction and sonar; offshore energy development; global warming; ocean acidification; and pollution.

"In an increasingly busy ocean, the survival and recovery of the North Atlantic right whale depends on the protection of its essential habitat areas," said Vicki Cornish, director of Marine Wildlife Policy with Ocean Conservancy. "Our demand for ocean resources is increasing, and we must consider the impact we have on the animals that call the ocean home. Protecting the most vital places for the survival of the North Atlantic right whale will help protect the species for generations to come."

The Endangered Species Act requires NMFS to respond to the groups' request within 90 days.

Facts:

The petition for expanded right whale critical habitat was filed on behalf of The Humane Society of the United States, Defenders of Wildlife, Center for Biological Diversity, Ocean Conservancy and the Whale and Dolphin Conservation Society.
The North Atlantic right whale is a critically endangered marine animal once hunted to near extinction by whalers. The population has struggled to recover, and now fewer than 400 North Atlantic right whales remain.
Adult female right whales reproduce slowly — they give birth to one calf every three to four years and do not reach reproductive maturity until age 8.
Maps of the proposed critical habitat areas are available from the media contacts.

-----
www.fayettefrontpage.com
Fayette Front Page
www.georgiafrontpage.com
Georgia Front Page
www.artsacrossgeorgia.com
Arts Across Georgia