What is a service dog?
A service dog is a dog that has been trained to help a disabled person complete a task they would not be able to do on their own. Duties of a service dog may include; guiding a blind person to a destination, alerting a deaf person of important sounds, sensing and informing someone of an oncoming medical issue such as a seizure, or interacting with certain objects for a mobility impaired individual. By providing assistance, service dogs are helping ease the burdens disabled people face on a consistent basis which helps them live a more independent life.
How are service dogs trained?
There are multiple ways service dogs can be trained; they can be trained by a training organization, an individual who trains dogs, or they can be trained by the person who has the disability. To be considered a service dog, the dog would need to be trained to perform specific tasks when needed for a disabled person. Depending on the service the dog is going to provide, they may spend years in training. There is only a small percent of dogs that pass their training to become a service dog, but thankfully those that do not pass their training make great family pets instead.
How to identify a service dog, and what to do if you see one.
Although many service dogs may wear a vest stating they are a service dog and advising not to pet them, they are not required to wear a vest or any other identification. Beyond a vest, a good implication that a canine is a service dog is that the dog is sitting at attention by the owner’s side, their focus is on the owner, they are not easily distracted. Service dogs come in all shapes in sizes as different sizes may be better at performing tasks than others. For example, large breeds will have the height to reach objects or complete tasks that might be on taller surfaces. Many times, these large breeds will also have the strength needed to help mobility impaired individuals. It is best to assume every dog you come across is a service dog hard at work until you are told otherwise.
If you see an unattended service dog and the dog nudges or barks at you, it could mean the owner needs assistance. Therefore, follow the service dog and once you get to the owner or wherever the dog had led you, access the situation and call for help if necessary.
If the service dog is with the handler remember the following:
- Do not touch the dog without getting permission from the owner first. This rule should be followed for any dog you come across but it’s especially important with service dogs. Puppies are super cute and although it can be tempting to pet and play with them, service dogs are always at work and you do not want to cause any distractions that would break their focus.
- Do not give a service dog food or treats. There are many reasons to not give a service dog food which include; many dogs are on a feeding schedule, they could be on a special diet, the dog may have allergies, or they may become distracted by the treat.
- Keep your dog away from service dogs. Dogs are social beings and can get excited when they see other dogs and want to play and interact with each other. Since the service dog is always working, you again don’t want to take the canine’s focus away from the owner.
Posted: September 28, 2023 by Kelli Hanson
Safe Halloween Tips for Your Pet(s)
By: Brent Honcharenko
Holidays and celebrations can often be stressful on pets. Not only do their routines get derailed, but so do their environments with all sorts of unfamiliar decorations. Add to that the rush people coming and going, and all of the extra noise and chaos.
We all know July 4th , with its fireworks celebrations, can be stressful for sensitive dogs, but Halloween is a very close second with the doorbell constantly ringing and strangers dressed in colorful, and sometimes scary, costumes shouting loudly at the front door.
The flurry of activity and noise on Halloween evening can be very unsettling for your pet(s) and it can also be a frightening experience for them.
Here are some things you can do to help ease your pet’s stress on Halloween:
familiar, and secure place in your home other than where all the activity is happening.
front door.
barrier to keep them away from the front door.
when they stay calm and don’t bark.
Doing your best to keep your pet calm is important:
Regarding costumes, some dogs and cats won’t care if you dress them up for the occasion, but others may act negatively to wearing a costume. If you want to dress your pet for Halloween but they are resisting, don’t force it. Watch your pet’s body language. If they’re fighting or resisting as you try to dress them, simply forego it. A social media photo isn’t worth the stress on your pet or on you.
If your pet is carefree about wearing a costume, then go ahead and have fun with it. But there are still some precautions to consider:
Overall safety is a key component for a successful and fun Halloween. Dogs and cats love things that smell good, shiny objects, and investigating new items in their environment.
Here are some safety considerations:
critically harmful, even lethal, to your pet(s).
If you do want to give your pet Halloween treats, ensure those treats are safe for them:
If you and your dog(s) are up for a pet-friendly Halloween party, please join Ruff Start Rescue at Forgotten Star Brewing in Fridley from 1:00 – 4:00 PM on Saturday, Oct. 28, for a Halloween Paw-ty and Dog Costume Contest. You can find more details and pre register at: ruffstartrescue.org/events Have a Happy and Pet-Safe Halloween!
Article sources: American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), WAG!, Tractive.
Posted: September 11, 2023 by Kelli Hanson
September is Service Dog Awareness month
By: Danielle Bardwell
What is a service dog?
A service dog is a dog that has been trained to help a disabled person complete a task they would not be able to do on their own. Duties of a service dog may include; guiding a blind person to a destination, alerting a deaf person of important sounds, sensing and informing someone of an oncoming medical issue such as a seizure, or interacting with certain objects for a mobility impaired individual. By providing assistance, service dogs are helping ease the burdens disabled people face on a consistent basis which helps them live a more independent life.
How are service dogs trained?
There are multiple ways service dogs can be trained; they can be trained by a training organization, an individual who trains dogs, or they can be trained by the person who has the disability. To be considered a service dog, the dog would need to be trained to perform specific tasks when needed for a disabled person. Depending on the service the dog is going to provide, they may spend years in training. There is only a small percent of dogs that pass their training to become a service dog, but thankfully those that do not pass their training make great family pets instead.
How to identify a service dog, and what to do if you see one.
Although many service dogs may wear a vest stating they are a service dog and advising not to pet them, they are not required to wear a vest or any other identification. Beyond a vest, a good implication that a canine is a service dog is that the dog is sitting at attention by the owner’s side, their focus is on the owner, they are not easily distracted. Service dogs come in all shapes in sizes as different sizes may be better at performing tasks than others. For example, large breeds will have the height to reach objects or complete tasks that might be on taller surfaces. Many times, these large breeds will also have the strength needed to help mobility impaired individuals. It is best to assume every dog you come across is a service dog hard at work until you are told otherwise.
If you see an unattended service dog and the dog nudges or barks at you, it could mean the owner needs assistance. Therefore, follow the service dog and once you get to the owner or wherever the dog had led you, access the situation and call for help if necessary.
If the service dog is with the handler remember the following:
Posted: September 6, 2023 by Kelli Hanson
Trap, neuter and release program
By: Mary Kane
Trap, neuter and release program
Not all cats thrive in homes. When cats are not socialized young, they often never acclimate to people or the indoors. The sad truth is that when a feral cat is brought to a shelter, they are often deemed unadoptable and euthanized. That’s why we are looking for heroes for the stray, feral cats in our community.
Overpopulation happens rapidly
To make the environment more challenging, cats procreate quickly, reaching sexual maturity as young as four months old. A female can have up to three litters a year with an average of four to eight in each litter. That means in just one year an outdoor mom could have as many as 24 offspring. According to the Animal Humane Society, an average of 75% of these vulnerable kittens will die before they reach six months of age. The ones who survive will further contribute to the overpopulation problem.
Ruff Start operates a trap, neuter and return program (TNR)
By trapping, neutering and returning cats to their outdoor homes, Ruff Start plays an important role in the community. TNR helps these animals by reducing competition for limited resources, eliminating the stress of pregnancy, boosting their immunity with critical shots and reducing the population over time. Plus, most veterinarians won’t work with feral cats and if they are open to it, often can’t due to limited resources. Ruff Start can complete the vetting at a fraction of the cost of most veterinary offices.
How the program works
Ruff Start has a small team of trained and dedicated volunteers who work with finders to trap cats. It’s a process that takes skill and a lot of patience. Once secured, the volunteer brings the animals to Ruff Start’s veterinary center where they receive spay/neuter, rabies and distemper shots. Kittens are sent to homes with fosters where they can be socialized and adopted.
Once the care is completed and the cats have been given time to recover, the volunteer returns the cats to the same outdoor home where they came from. It’s important the cats have the stability of their known environment.
The need far exceeds the resources
Ruff Start has an ongoing wait list of people who have identified strays or colonies in their communities and are requesting TNR support. We want to use our expertise and resources to help more in need. With additional funding we could. By investing in these outdoor cats, we get to the root of the problem by helping end needless suffering and euthanasia.
Please consider making a one-time or ongoing contribution to this important cause. With your donation, note that would like your funds to go to the “TNR” program.
If you would like more information about how to get cats in your community assistance with Ruff Start’s trap TNR program, please contact CommunityCats@RuffStartRescue.org. For additional information and resources, visit Alley Cat Allies or Ruff Start’s community cat resource page.
Thank you for being a cat hero.
Posted: August 17, 2023 by Kelli Hanson
Black Cat Appreciation Day is August 17th
By: Danielle Bardwell
History
In some parts of the world black cats are viewed as good luck, but in other parts of the world they are viewed as bad luck. Black cat appreciation day was created in 2011 to help debunk myths surrounding black cats and to help paint these majestic creatures in a more positive light.
Throughout history there have been many differing opinions on these felines. Ireland, Japan, and ancient Egypt depicted black cats as symbols of good luck, protection, and prosperity. In parts of Europe and America black cats are portrayed as symbols of bad luck, death, and the devil. The history of each of these perceptions are based on myths and legends and they have been discredited this day in age.
How to celebrate
Unfortunately, due to negative connotations to black cats, they have a lower rate of adoption at some shelters. By adopting one of these cute companions, you are giving them the chance at a great life beyond the shelter walls.
Show your friends and family happy and funny memories you share with your pet to boost positive associations to black cats.
Helping out local shelters is a great way to support all kinds of animals. By donating your time or resources, shelters can save more animals and ensure they have what they need to live a happy and healthy life.
Grab some popcorn and have a movie night with family or friends in honor of black cat appreciation day.
Celebrate the cat you already have by showing them how loved they are! You could give them an extra treat, a new toy, or some additional snuggles.
By bringing awareness and positive vibes towards these beautiful beings we can redefine what it means if you happen to cross paths with a black cat!
Posted: August 9, 2023 by Julia Sidelinger
The Story of Gordy
And here’s where you come in. Gordy’s heart has one desire – a family to call his own. He’s got the personality to win you over – sweet, easygoing, and he loves hanging out with dogs. Nothing makes him happier than his yellow ducky toy or a tennis ball. Plus, he’s already a leash and crate pro – talk about impressive!
If you’ve been searching for a new pup to join your crew, why not consider fostering-to-adopt Gordy? He’s got enough love to light up the Lone Star State and beyond. Apply here: https://ruffstartrescue.org/view-pet/?id=19576600
Posted: August 8, 2023 by Kelli Hanson
Preventing Pet Loss
Preventing Pet Loss: Heartbreak and Hope for a Reunion
by: World Animal Foundation
Pet owners may sadly experience the grim tragedy of pet loss. However, losing a pet can have a happy ending. By being prepared for the worst-case scenario and using microchipping, ID tags, and training, pet parents can be happily reunited with their lost pet. In this article, we’ll focus on preventable acts of loss.
Causes and statistics about pet loss
In a sample survey provided by the NIH of 303 participants, 123 pets, or 40.6%, died from diseases. It’s the most prevalent cause of death in pets. Diseases affect many pets, and not all are curable. The second segment is natural death and includes 106 or 35% of pets. Accidental death claimed 54 pets or 17.8%. The remaining 20 pets were lost to unforeseen circumstances. This 6.6% may be avoidable.
Ways to Prevent Pet Loss
Here are the most efficient tips for pet loss prevention:
Whether it’s a new puppy or a rescue dog, prepare beforehand. Do a perimeter walk and make sure it’s escape-proof. Determined or curious, a dog can squeeze through a small space, leap over, or dig underneath. Invisible perimeter fences and electronic collars work well, but vigilance is the best method of keeping a pet secure. Cats are trickier to keep in a yard; they’re athletic climbers and can squeeze through tiny spaces. Also, remove chemicals like garden fertilizers and automotive products like anti-freeze, which is lethal for pets.
Microchips are an invaluable device that can save immense heartache. These miniature ID tags slip painlessly beneath a pet’s skin. If pets get rescued by a local animal shelter or control officer, it can happily reunite owners. The caveat is to keep contact info on a microchip updated and registered.
GPS dog trackers provide real-time location tracking, ensuring the safety of your furry friend. World Animal Foundation recommends using dog GPS trackers. These tracking collars have numerous advantages and are crucial for reuniting and protecting lost pets. Leash training will keep your dog safe until you are 100% certain your dog is reliable on recalls. For larger dogs, use a no-pull harness until you master heeling.
Unfortunate incidents can happen to furry friends. Teaching a dog to obey boundaries and commands takes effort. Perimeter fence training keeps your pet safe. Attending puppy or adult sessions is a unique bonding experience that protects your pet from accidents. Responding to calls and basic training and command cues are vital. Luckily there are many excellent programs like positive reinforcement, clicker, electronic, alpha, or relationship-based training.
Having a dog means enjoying the outdoors. When you leave your dog in a securely fenced area, there is a good chance they’ll be safe. However, if you leave them unsupervised, your dog may start to investigate getting out. When you’re in an open area, keep your dog on a lead, and make sure they’re wearing a collar with ID. If the dog escapes, don’t panic or chase. This is when you’ll apply your recall training or other commands like stop, down, etc., that they have mastered. Also, remain in the area as your dog might return to the area looking for you.
Whether it’s a family outing, a day at the beach, or hiking, your training skills and leash and collar come in handy. Noisy, crowded areas can overwhelm a dog even if they’re well socialized. If the event includes a long road trip, consider installing a restraining device to keep the dog safe as you concentrate on driving. For dogs that like to drive with the window down, buckling them in prevents them from jumping out windows.
There is no substitute for training. Basic commands like stay and come are essential, but your dog needs to learn to be reliable. Training means building a bond with your pet. It’s unrealistic to suggest that you’ll monitor your dog 24/7. However, teaching your dog boundary rules is achievable and keeps your dog safe when life’s impromptu circumstances intervene. Take extra precautions when you take your dog into unfamiliar parks or areas.
The benefits of spaying and neutering are numerous. It can protect dogs from health conditions, including sexually transmitted diseases like VD and testicular cancer. Further, the urge to mate and run away is removed, and they’re less likely to mark their territory with urine. Another significant benefit is the unwanted and overpopulation of animals.
A safe home environment goes a long way to keeping your pets safe. Supply a fenced or invisible perimeter to keep your pets out of harm’s way. Keep gates and doorways fastened, and if you must leave a pet unattended, double-check that they can’t escape. Create a plan for emergency events, like the Humane Society Preparedness Tips. These rules don’t always work for cats. Keeping doors or windows closed or protected by screens will most often keep cats safe.
Cats and dogs need affection and social interactions and entertaining them doesn’t have to be fancy. Pets benefit from physical and mental activity. Many gadgets can help, but again, you don’t have to overcomplicate them. Devote at least 1 to 2 hours of your attention to your pet daily.
Going on a holiday or taking your dog to work are rewarding experiences. A safety harness while traveling is a great way to keep them safe. At least 10,000 dogs die in car accidents yearly.
Provide:
This means making your dog comfortable in your home while you’re gone. Many dog owners find that confining their dogs to one room provides pet safety and can prevent accidents.
Provide:
Microchipping and collar ID tags are vital. Keep your ID and microchip information updated, especially when you move. Register your dog with pet finder organizations.
In the event there is a mishap:
The first rule of pet ownership within a community is to respect that your neighbor may not be a fan of your cat, dog, or other pets. However, introduce your pet and their habits to the community.
Establish:
Conclusion
As pet parents, we can’t prevent the inevitable loss of a beloved pet, but we can actively engage the tools of loss prevention by keeping our pets safe and protecting a pet’s life with many devices like training and tech gadgets.
Posted: August 1, 2023 by Kelli Hanson
The Story of Lola
Posted: July 29, 2023 by Kelli Hanson
The Story of Busta Brown
Posted: July 21, 2023 by Kelli Hanson
The Story of The Dread Pirate Bonita
Posted: July 17, 2023 by Kelli Hanson
The Story of Keyori