Archives                                      Muffin's Pet Connection
                                                                by Jude Lassow
                                                                  June 20, 2008
                                                        e-mail judespets@aol.com

                                                       Muffin's Pet Connection
                                                                by Jude Lassow
                                                                  June 13, 2008
                                                        e-mail judespets@aol.com

WE GET LETTERS: Jude, I thought your readers would like this. FIVE COMMANDMENTS FOR PET OWNERS ONLY (Cat and Dog minds talk to you!) submitted by IRENE SIDOR
1- My life is likely to last 10 to 27 years. Any separation from you will be very painful. 

                                                       Muffin's Pet Connection
                                                                by Jude Lassow
                                                                  June 6, 2008
                                                        e-mail judespets@aol.com

WE GET LETTERS: "A cat's arching back is part of a complex body language system, usually associated with feeling threatened. The arch is able to get so high because the cat's spine contains nearly 60 vertebrae which fit loosely together. Humans have only 34 vertebrae". -submitted by Janet Bernasconi

                                                      Muffin's Pet Connection
                                                                by Jude Lassow
                                                                  May 30, 2008
                                                        e-mail judespets@aol.com

                                                     Muffin's pet Connection
                                                                by Jude Lassow
                                                                  May 23, 2008
                                                        e-mail judespets@aol.com

ASPCA ALERT: PUDGY POOCH PROBLEMS - Like human obesity, pet obesity has risen dramatically over the past 20 years—and as in humans, obesity in dogs can lead to serious health problems, including joint disorders, liver problems and diabetes. The American Veterinary Medical Association estimates that about 25 percent of American dogs are obese (weighing 20 percent or more over their ideal body weight). The most common culprit is too many treats. "Canine weight issues are not about willpower, like they are for people," says Dr. Louise Murray, Director of Medicine at the ASPCA’s Bergh Memorial Animal Hospital. "We have 100-percent control over what goes in our dogs. In almost every case I’ve seen, canine obesity is caused by snacking and treats between meals, not too much dog food." The majority of cases of obesity are related to simple overfeeding coupled with lack of exercise. Regular exercise burns more calories, reduces appetite, changes body composition and will increase your pet’s resting metabolic rate. Important things you can do: 1- Remove the pet from the room when the family eats. 2- Feed your pet several small meals throughout the day. 3 - Feed all meals and treats in the pet's bowl only.
4- Reduce snacks or treats. -excerpt aspca.org

PEOPLE FOODS TO AVOID FEEDING YOUR PETS: CHOCOLATE, COFFEE, and CAFFEINE. These products all contain methylxanthines, which can cause vomiting, and diarrhea, panting, excessive thirst and urination, hyperactivity, abnormal heart rhythm, tremors, seizures and even death. Note that darker chocolate is more dangerous than milk chocolate. White chocolate has the lowest level of methylxanthines, while baking chocolate contains the highest. ALCOHOLIC beverages and food products containing alcohol can cause vomiting, diarrhea, decreased coordination, central nervous system depression, difficulty breathing, tremors, abnormal blood acidity, coma and even death. GRAPES & RAISINS The toxic substance within grapes and raisins is unknown; these fruits can cause kidney failure. Pets that already have certain health problems, signs may be more dramatic. ONIONS, GARLIC, CHIVES These vegetables and herbs can cause gastrointestinal irritation and could lead to red blood cell damage.

                                                      Muffin's pet Connection
                                                                by Jude Lassow
                                                                  May 16, 2008
                                                        e-mail judespets@aol.com

PROMERIS SAFETY WARNING: FLEA & TICK product could be hazardous to your pet! This is a new product designed to be a more effective than other flea/tick treatments that was just released this year. It is available thru a vet. A pet owner claimed that after using ProMeris on her seven dogs, (six Huskies and Golden-Airdale) each had serious physical reactions to it. Within less than 2 hours of receiving the treatment, four of her dogs became disoriented, stumbling, dragging back leg, salivating and vomiting. The dog owner says that in addition, she also began having symptoms such as swollen lips, red eyes, and disorientation. All seven of her dogs, she says, were admitted to a veterinary hospital and she was taken to a hospital emergency room. It has a highly noxious odor that permeated the house and started to dissipate after three days.
SAFETY PRECAUTION FROM FORT DODGE, THE MAKER: Putting ProMeris between the shoulder blades prevents the dog from licking it. Putting it elsewhere, especially on the surface of the dog's hair, increases the risk of the dog ingesting it orally and possibly experiencing the symptoms described. DODGE comments that their flea and tick treatment "effectively stops and controls existing flea infestations for up to seven weeks in cats and six weeks in dogs." -excerpt from truthorfiction.com
MAY IS ANNUAL GUARDIAN MONTH...IN DEFENSE OF ANIMALS,
(IDA) urges use of the term "guardian" rather than "owner" when we speak about animals. According to IDA President Dr. Elliot M. Katz, "It is time to see and treat the animals who share our lives as more than mere commodities, property and things." Actress Mary Tyler Moore says, "I like [the] term guardian as opposed to master or owner. It is an honor that is bestowed on some of us and we need to treat it that way." -excerpt from IDA@idausa.org
ADOPTION: Pretty, Brown-Nose-Tummy Spots, is a seven month old female kitty. She is curious and playful. Rescuer is looking for responsible home. Call Marion 1-917-941-6854 Mention the Home Reporter. There is an Adoption fee

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                                                       Muffin's pet Connection
                                                                by Jude Lassow
                                                                  May 9, 2008
                                                        e-mail judespets@aol.com

ADOPT-A-SHELTER PET: DON’T buy a Pet, instead CHOOSE to SAVE A LIFE at a LOVE WANTED ADOPTION EVENT. Over 1,000 neighbors in our community have already done so! Saturday, May 17^th St. at the Philips Episcopal Church, 1072-80^th Street (11^th Ave) Brooklyn, NY from 1:00 pm to 5:00 pm. It’s a Rain or Shine Event! Proof of ID and Adoption FEE Required.  Animals Courtesy of North Shore Animal League and Animal Care and Control of NYC.

HEARTFELT THANK YOU...ELYSE KARNES a devoted animal lover and MUFFIN’S supporter, has generously donated her birthday monetary gifts to the PeggySue HELP-A-PET fund. Elyse’s kindness is greatly appreciated. Muffin’s thanks you! And the animals thank you too. May the waggin’ tails, head butts and motor purrs be with you always. God Bless!

CESAR MILLAN SAYS: Be the PACK LEADER! Boundaries, structure and limitations, then affection, are the guide lines for raising a well balanced, well behaved dog. Cesars methods are tried, proven and work. There are about forty canines living at his dog psychology center in CA. These Rotweilers, Shepards, Pit Bulls and various other mixed pooches, were out of control. Their previous pet guardians could not handle their dogs ‘issues’. Many were vicious, abused, frightened, rejects of the world, slated for the kill shelter! They all live in balanced harmony, enjoying their life as a pack dog! Their PACK LEADER is CESAR! Daddy, a rescued Pit Bull, works with Cesar, as he resonates balanced energy to the hyper-active, neurotic pooch, who desperately need to be a balanced dog. CESAR trains people and rehabilates dogs! To see Cesar in action, watch the DOG WHISPERER on the National Geographic television show. Please check your TV listings for time and day for this excellent REACH, TEACH AND EDUCATE dog show. CESAR is calm assertive and his dogs are calm submissive. Cesar thanks God, for giving him the opportunity to help His dogs live their full potential as balanced dogs. They live in the moment, the now! Dogs do not have the emotional baggage of feeling sorry for themselves, the way we do. They have no concept of the time, worry or the future. Dogs are grounded in the NOW! This is a good lesson for all of us to learn.

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                                                        Muffin's pet Connection
                                                                by Jude Lassow
                                                                  May 2, 2008
                                                        e-mail judespets@aol.com

WE GET LETTERS: Dear Jude HELP PLEASE, KITTEN EMERGENCY! ..."Last year a cat we named Kofi’s cat was abandoned at the Gracie Veterinary Clinic. Luckily for her she was adopted and placed in a wonderful home. This was due to the article that Jude put in her column, and Dr. Kofi’s kindness. I’m hoping there will be four more happy endings this year.

                                                          Muffin's Pet Connection
                                                                     by Jude Lassow
                                                                     April 25, 2008
                                                        e-mail judespets@aol.com

BIG THANK YOU TO JANICE FOTI, from FURRY FRIENDS PET CARE.COM
When she heard about Irene Sidor’s 20 rescued cats, Janice wanted to help. Janice, a compassionate, generous pet lover, bought 12 cases of 13 oz. Friskies canned food and three large bags of Meow Mix dry food, from VINNY’S PET SHOP, and donated them to Irene. Janice’s kind heart is bigger than God’s oceans. Janice is a Guardian Angel to the kitties...Thank you and God Bless! May the purrs and head butts be with you always!

ABOUT A HOMELESS PET LOVER...JOHN lived in the basement of my apartment building. He was a gentle man, a quiet soul, who helped Eric the super, by trying to keep ahead of the dusty floors. Precious, a sweet, loveable Golden Mix pup, was rescued by Betty, the super’s wife.
Precious was an energetic, kid loving pooch, who razzle and dazzled everyone with her winning personality. John agreed to foster PRECIOUS, and soon bonded with this vivacious pup. Months passed as Precious and John connected to each other. Then the unthinkable happened; someone in the building complained to the landlord, about a barking dog in the basement. Shortly before Christmas, the super was given the grim news, JOHN and PRECIOUS had to vacate the basement. With tears in her eyes, Betty told me PRECIOUS needed a home now. Thanks to your donations, Muffin’s subsidized the $72 spay, $85 shots, $126 blood test, $12 antibiotics. A healthy Precious was adopted on February 16, 2008, by the Murdoch family in Westchester. JOHN was very sad about loosing his PRECIOUS. On April 15, 2008, at 7 am, excited neighbors were banging on Eric’s door. John had collapsed in front of our building. Eric ran downstairs and cradled John in his arms while waiting for an ambulance to arrive. Twenty minutes later, the Maimonides ambulance pulled up, and started CPR. But it was too late. John had quietly passed away in Eric’s arms. Cardiac Arrest had taken our quiet friend. John is walking with the Angels.

FUN FACT: The Blue Whale's whistle is the loudest noise made by an animal.

                                                              Muffin's Pet Connection
                                                                     by Jude Lassow
                                                                  April 18, 2008
                                                        e-mail judespets@aol.com

THE LASER PET POINTER TOY - DRAINS KITTY ENERGY! Calay, Squeaks & daMouse, love chasing the little red laser dot. Calay tries to bite it, while bouncing ‘n pouncing on this magical red dot. Squeaks and Mouse, jump over and try to out maneuver each other, with purrfect agile, acrobatic rhyme. They are purrfecting their athletic talents for the KITTY CAT LASER OLYMPICS. The laser-dances are performed at bedtime. This 10pm high energy routine, tires out our nocturnal felines. The gymnasts mew soundly throughout the night. The red laser dot is always pointed on the floor, never directly in the pet’s eyes. This $4.50 fun toy is offered at muffins.org You and your companion animals will have a blast with the Laser Pointer, which has 5 interchangeable pattern tips. Let the fun begin!

JUDE’S BOOK CHOICE: "LOVE WANTED", by our very own extraordinaire animal rescuer, MJ TOBIN, is a composition of pet tails a-waggin’ an a saggin’. In her heartwarming book, of pet trails and tribulations, MJ explores the emotional depths of family cats and dogs, when surrendered to kill and non shelters. The over whelming sadness and confusion in a house pets eyes, is witnessed by MJ and Pat, one of her dedicated volunteers. These unsuspecting ‘family members’ are in a cold cage, with other frightened dogs, yapping, pacing and waiting for their ‘mommy’ to come and get them. Home kitties are stressed and scared; howling and screaming is their only release. Their former ‘pet parents’ have abandoned them at the shelter! They do not look back and see the fear in their pet’s eyes, nor do they hear the pitiful crying and screaming. Pet owners need to take responsibility for their actions! There are alternatives to finding a home. Thanks to the hard work and ‘LOVE WANTED’ events, MJ and her outstanding volunteer team, have rescued and re-homed 1000 cats and dogs! This is a must read book!

SPAYING/NEUTERING: prevent male prostrate cancer, and female mammary tumors and pyometra. MUFFIN'S certificates; at HAPPY PETS, 718-238-2246 or PAWS & CLAWS, 718-836-8345.

                                                             Muffin's Pet Connection
                                                                     by Jude Lassow
                                                                  April 11, 2008
                                                        e-mail judespets@aol.com

ATTENTION ALL ANIMAL LOVERS...PLEASE HELP “ARK ANGELS”  &  FRIENDS, FIND LOVING HOMES FOR OUR CITY’S FORGOTTEN ANIMALS, AT OUR  2^nd ANNUAL “ORANGE YOU GONNA TAKE ME HOME” The ADOPTION EVENT is in honor of the ASPCA’s ORANGE DAY.  Dogs, cats, puppies and kittens from the Brooklyn and Staten Island ACC and local Rescue/Foster groups will be available for adoption.  On Sunday, April 13^th, at 11 AM thru 4 PM , REGINA PACIS Youth Center , 1258 – 65^th St (Between 12^th & 13^th Ave) is sponsoring this exciting event.  DON’T FORGET TO WEAR ORANGE !  Donations of blankets, towels, pet supplies and toys gladly accepted.  Proof of ID and Adoption Fee Required.  This is a Rain or Shine Event.  Volunteers are welcome.  For more Information, please contact, Ark Angels 718-680-2260 
 
JUDE’S BOOK CHOICE:  THE SECRET, by Rhonda Byrne, is about changing your thought ‘frequency’, embracing the positive, giving thanks throughout the day, being grateful and appreciative.  Prayers help too.  The inner calm reflects in your attitude towards everything in life, including your pets.  Make and post a visual board, with pictures of what you need, think about it, and release this energy to the UNIVERSE.  Norm and I practice this all the time now.  We fostered six month old Squeaks, with the intention of finding her a home!  She found the best home, with us.  Her purrfect energy, brought calm and balance to PeggySue, Calay & daMouse.  Mouse had no one to run, jump and drain his male energy.  Squeaks ‘n Mouse is the hugs ‘n kisses kitty team, brought to us by the UNIVERSE.  This is how THE SECRET works. Never, ever let a negative thought enter your thought frequency.  Live in the now, and be thankful for what you have.  Squeaks is our daily reminder, of how God works.  She was meant to be rescued by our super Betty, Destiny, and Alben.  This little street urchin was fostered first by Sanzi and Hector, then by Muffin’s.  Squeaks, radiates calm submissive, balanced energy.  Plus she is people friendly.  Thank you God!

                                                                       Muffin's Pet Connection
                                                                                  by Jude Lassow
                                                                                    April 4, 2008
                                                        e-mail judespets@aol.com

SQUEAKY ‘n daMOUSE: In the December 27th issue of the Home Reporter, Destiny and Alben Mustafalic wrote about a six month old, female kitten that they rescued from the freezing streets of Shore Road. Our neighbors, Sanzi and Hector fostered this classic brown tabby, but could not keep her, as she did not get along with Scooby, their seven year old rescued Shih Tzu. After five weeks of ear mite and eye infection treatments, Muffin’s adopted ‘SQUEAKY’. Our ‘MOUSE’ now has a mew girlfriend. SQUEAKY has the purrfect calm energy for our three-legged female kitties, PEGGYSUE and CALAY. As SQUEAKY ‘n daMOUSE zoom around and play like crazy with each other, CALAY sighs with relief. She just could not keep up with MOUSE’S male energy. DaMOUSE has his own ‘HUGH HEFFY HARUM’ of female fun.

                                                           Muffin's Pet Connection
                                                                     by Jude Lassow
                                                                  March 28, 2008
                                                        e-mail judespets@aol.com

SUPPORT FEDERAL BILL: KEEP SICK ANIMALS OUT OF FOOD SUPPLY
Earlier this month, California-based Westland/Hallmark Meat Co.’s alleged mistreatment and subsequent slaughter of "downers" (cattle who become too ill or injured to walk unassisted) resulted in the recall of 143 million pounds of frozen beef by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). Compromised immune systems, injuries and the filth of slaughterhouse floors make downers susceptible to illnesses including infections from bacteria such as E. coli and salmonella. Americans might be surprised to learn that it is legal to process these animals into the food supply as long as they’ve been inspected and approved by a veterinarian. Westland was caught skipping this step, but it is almost certainly not the only slaughterhouse that routinely does so. The U.S. Congress for a second time, would ban downed animals from entering our food supply and require their immediate euthanasia by humane methods. Both the House and Senate versions of the act were referred to committees in early 2007 and have not been heard from since. "Congress needs to make food safety a priority since the industry is unwilling or unable to police itself. Even if USDA and vet inspections were carried out as they should be, processing downer cows for food is chancy and irresponsible", says Cori Menkin, Senior Director, ASPCA Government Affairs & Public Policy. YOU CAN HELP, by encouraging members of Congress to pass S. 394/H.R. 661- excerpt ASPCA.org

GUINEA PIGS: commonly called CAVY’S, are neither pigs nor do they come from Guinea. Guinea pigs originated from South America. I had three little ‘piglets’, Sammie and Suzie, adorable long haired black and white Peruvian Guinea Pigs. Michael, was a cute brown, smooth haired Cavy. CAVY’S special squeaking, grunting and body language, talks volumes. S & S cooed when they were calm. Michael squeaked when it was chow time! Guinea Pigs are popular pets. They are docile, responsiveness to handling and feeding, and easy to care for. Make sure you are not allergic to CAVY’s. Adopt from the ASPCA.

                                                           Muffin's Pet Connection
                                                                     by Jude Lassow
                                                                  March 21, 2008
                                                        e-mail judespets@aol.com

POPCORN INGREDIENT TIED TO LUNG DISEASE IN MICE
Tests on mice show that diacetyl, a component of artificial butter flavoring, can cause a condition known as lymphocytic bronchiolitis, said the team at the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, part of the National Institutes of Health. The hard-to-treat condition causes vague symptoms such as cough and shortness of breath, and steadily worsens, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The condition can lead to obliterative bronchiolitis, or "popcorn lung" a rare and debilitating disease seen in workers at microwave popcorn packaging plants and at least one consumer. 
At least two microwave popcorn makers, ConAgra Foods Inc and Weaver Popcorn Co Inc, have said recently they would stop using diacetyl.  Laboratory mice made to inhale diacetyl vapors for three months developed lymphocytic bronchiolitis, the NIEHS team said. –excerpt from AOLnews

DOLPHIN RESCUES TWO BEACHED WHALES 
A dolphin has been hailed as a hero after it came to the aid of two whales that were beached with seemingly no hope of rescue.  The pair of pygmy sperm whales were stuck on the shore of New Zealand's North Island. Although a group of (human) conservationists
 had tried to free them for an hour, they were about to give up.  But then, according to reports, a bottlenose dolphin known as Moko "appeared, communicated with the whales and led them to safety."-excerpt from HAPPY HOUR HERO

DECORATING EASTER EGGS- MAKE SURE THEY ARE CERTIFIED HUMANE RAISED. Check for labels stating, farms provide animals in their care with ample shelter, sunlight, fresh air and space to engage in their natural behaviors. Animals are treated with kindness! –excerpt from aspca.org

Have a safe and happy Spring. God Bless!

                                                            Muffin's Pet Connection
                                                                     by Jude Lassow
                                                                  March 14, 2008
                                                        e-mail judespets@aol.com

WE GET LETTERS: Two exciting pet events: LOVE WANTED ADOPTION: on March 29th at Salem Lutheran Church, 450 - 67th treet between 4&5 Avenue 11:30am - 4:00pm - rain or shine, proof of ID and adoption fee is required. Also offering to the communty on-site micro-chipping $25 and rabies-booster shots at discounted rates. Animals coutsty of NSAL & ACC. of NYC.
SAVE A LIFE WEEKEND EVENT on Saturday March 30th,
at REGINA PACIS YOUTH CENTER on 65^th Street, between 12^th & 13th Avenue. A PET FIRST AID CPR 4 hour Course is offered by the AMERICAN RED CROSS, Between 10AM-2PM. The $70 FEE INCLUDES: 100 page book and certificate. DEADLINE: MARCH 17th to register with Ark Angels @ 718-680-2260 Come and meet authors Bruce Goldstein of PUPPY CHOW IS BETTER THAN PROZAC, and Tom Amico, of THE DAY THE DOG DRESSED LIKE DAD, as they speak about their books on how dogs saved their lives. Autographed books available at a special discount price the day of the event only!

                                                          Muffin's Pet Connection
                                                                     by Jude Lassow
                                                                  March 7, 2008
                                                        e-mail judespets@aol.com

DEAR READERS: SPAYING AND NEUTERING…You have read about the health and behavior benefits of spaying and neutering cats and dogs in my column. Irene, a 43 year old deaf rescuer, was feeding and caring for fifty cats in her Aunts backyard. When her aunt sold the house, Irene rescued twenty-one of the cats, and took them with her. They are feral or semi-feral felines. Irene had spayed and neutered most of the cats. But recently she took a significant cut in pay, and could not afford to fix the rest of the kitty clan. So far, Muffin’s ‘HELP-A-PET-FUND’ has paid with MAMAS feral cat coupons, the spaying of Irene’s four females and neutering one male cat. Irene’s nine year old Sunflower, a feral, had blood work an X-ray, exam etc, for $200, which was paid by Muffin’s. Pyometra, an infected uterus, was discovered. This twenty minute $58 spay surgery now cost $1200. The doctors from the Animal Clinic of Bay Ridge, were in surgery for two hours, and removed a four or five pound, pus filled infected uterus from Sunflower.
A young female cat’s uterus is usually the size of a pencil. Sunflower was hospitalized for five days, receiving I V fluids and antibiotics. Dr. Alexandru generously helped Muffin’s, by reducing the fee to $700. Dr. Alexandru and his dedicated staff were compassionate, and caring to Sunflower and Irene. We are very thankful and grateful that the vets and the staff at the Animal Clinic of Bay Ridge were kind and supportive. Irene has four more young female cats and one nine year old female cat that are not spayed. We need your help! Muffin’s fund raising events have been indefinitely cancelled due to Hany’s illness. Your tax exempt donations are needed so we can continue to spay Irene’s cats. We are praying for your assistance. Please call Jude at 718-833-7988. Thank you and God Bless! An informative upcoming column, HOW TO PREVENT PYOMETRA will be co-authored by Dr. Alexandru.

                                                          Muffin's Pet Connection
                                                                     by Jude Lassow
                                                                  FEBRUARY 29, 2008
                                                        e-mail judespets@aol.com

ASPCA TAKE ACTION: NYC: It's Time to Get the Horses Out of Harm's Way Recent events, including the increasing number of accidents and deaths of horses, underscore that the time has come to get these animals off our streets. On September 14, 2007, a horse frightened by a noise bolted across Central Park South, collided with a tree and broke her leg. She died shortly thereafter. Many horses are subject to working in poor conditions, and the laws that are supposed to be protecting these animals are not always enforced. Councilmember Tony Avella has introduced Intro. 658, legislation to ban carriage horses in New York City. The ASPCA urges you to contact your councilmember to support Councilmember Avella's legislation to ban carriage horses in New York City. -excerpt from ASPCA.org

BE AWARE: PetEdge Issues Toothpaste Recall The recalled toothpaste may be contaminated with a chemical normally found in antifreeze. Due to possible diethylene glycol contamination, PetEdge has issued a voluntary recall of one of its toothpaste products for pets. Diethylene glycol is a chemical found in antifreeze and other solvents. If ingested, it can cause headaches, renal failure or death. The affected product is the 1.4 oz. Top Performance ProDental Toothpaste with Toothbrush kit in both the beef and mint flavors. Product details: Item number: TP128 Beef Flavor UPC Code: 721343128151 and Mint Flavor UPC Code: 721343128564 Consumers are urged to discard the product immediately. To receive a credit, customers will have to complete and return a PetEdge Product Destruction Log. For details and more information, call PetEdge at 888-211-8706.  -excerpt from Brooklyn Animal Foster Network

WE GET LETTERS: Dear Jude, "Mango is a wonderful Orange kitty cat! He has a personality to die for. He was at a recent adoption event, and for whatever reason, wasn't adopted. In order to save him, he is now being fostered locally. Mango is between 2 and 3 yrs. old. He is neutered, combo tested negative and a true sweetheart. If you are looking for "the golden retriever of cats", then search no more..... Come meet Mango... you won't regret it"! Contact Mary Jo at 718-986-1362.

                                                              Muffin's Pet Connection
                                                                     by Jude Lassow
                                                                  FEBRUARY 22, 2008
                                                        e-mail judespets@aol.com

FYI: PURRLEEESE NO FLEAS! Cat Flea Collars... Many cats are allergic to the pesticides in flea collars and break out in a rash or lose the hair around their neck near the collar. Flea collars generally don't kill fleas anywhere but around the neck. Most flea collars are not break-away collars. If your cat gets caught underneath furniture or on something in your home, it may choke if it can't break free of the collar. An effective flea solution is a topical treatment or shampoo recommended by your veterinarian. Ask about Frontline. It's important to treat your home as well, otherwise any fleas hiding in your couch or your carpet will just hop right back onto your cat. -excerpt VPI Pet Health Zone

NON TOXIC PLANTS: Some plants such as the: American rubber, Blue daisy, Cat ear, Cucumber, Cushon aloe, Prayer plant, Easter daisy, Feather fern, Spider plant, Venus fly trap, have not been reported as having systemic effects on animals or as having intense effects on the gastrointestinal tract. Any plant material ingested by an animal (as when dogs and cats ingest yard grass) may produce signs of vomiting, depression, or diarrhea. These signs are generally mild and self-limiting and often do not require any treatment. -excerpt ASPCA Check aspca.org to get the rest of list.

IN LOVING MEMORY: THE RAINBOW BRIDGE connects Heaven and Earth. God's creatures leave their paw prints firmly planted in our hearts. Our special little 'Angels' have completed their mission and returned home. Their legacy of joy and love are with us always. The circle of life continues. Until we meet again.
TEAKO Our little loveable, one and a half year old, the big brother of the Kangaroo Clan and daMouse, passed away much too soon. He was the joy of our lives, and a very special little guy. He will be missed and never forgotten. Rest in peace, little TEAKO. Love from Mike, Helene and friends. And a special thanks to Teresa for her help with the Kangaroo Clan. MM
Loving MIA, fifteen year old, rescued Sheltie, has a forever place in Laura and John’s hearts...Five year old Simba, beloved kitty of IRENE SIDOR, is walking with the Angels. God Bless!

                                                          Muffin's Pet Connection
                                                                     by Jude Lassow
                                                                  FEBRUARY 15, 2008
                                                        e-mail judespets@aol.com

HOW TO MOVE WITH YOUR PET: THINK IN ADVANCE -
Make sure you arrange every aspect of your trip, including looking for hotels that are animal-friendly or talking to the airlines if you're flying to your new destination. GET A PET CARRIER -If you want to keep your pet safely confined during the moving period, make sure you gradually introduce this temporary home to your animal and make sure it gets used to it. SECURITY - make sure you get a ID tag with your new address and full contact details. AIRFARE - Airline must check your animal in all cases for medical and other reasons. A certificate of health from your vet is required. Some countries require a quarantine period for specified or all animals at the owner's expense, make sure you ask your travel agent about this. CAR TRAVEL - How does your pet behave during long car journeys? Make sure your car is well ventilated and never leave your pet in the car in a parked vehicle during a warm period, as the temperature rise could kill them. Never put an animal in the trunk of a car, the open bed of a pickup truck, or the storage area of a moving van. VETERINARIAN - Check with your veterinarian before you move. Get a copy of all of your pets medical records. The vet might may be able to refer you to a new vet in your new area. TAKE THE CAT OR DOG FOR A LONG WALK before you start your journey.-excerpt ArcaMax publishing

FOR A DOG’S HEALTH AND LONGEVITY: NO ONIONS, NO CHOCOLATES. Some foods which are edible for humans, and even other species of animals, can pose hazards for dogs because of their different metabolism. Some may cause only mild digestive upsets, whereas, others can cause severe illness, and even death. These are just some of the foods that can be hazardous to your dog. Alcoholic beverages can cause intoxication, coma, and death. Baby food can contain onion powder, which can be toxic to dogs. It can also result in nutritional deficiencies, if fed in large amounts. Bones from fish, poultry, or other meat sources Can cause obstruction or laceration of the digestive system. Cat food is generally too high in protein and fats. Chocolate, coffee, tea, and other caffeine, theobromine, or theophylline, which can be toxic and affect the heart and nervous systems. Citrus oil extracts can cause vomiting. Grapes and raisins Contain an unknown toxin, which can damage the kidneys. -excerpt from Housepet.com

                                                              Muffin's Pet Connection
                                                                      by Jude Lassow
                                                                    FEBRUARY 8, 2008
                                                        e-mail judespets@aol.com

LOVE WANTED VALENTINE ADOPTION EVENT: On Sunday, February 17, at 11:30am - 4pm, puppies, kittens, cats and dogs, courtesy of North Shore Animal League and the The Animal Care and Control of NYC, will be at REGINA PACIS Youth Center, 1285 - 65th Street. Adopt a shelter pet for the unconditional love you deserve! Adoption fee and proof of ID are required. This is a RAIN or SHINE event. Registration for Red Cross Pet First Aid/CPR course available. Joanna Appass, Muffin’s Outreach Sponsor, will be there, with The Diva, PashaBelle, and her sidekick, King Tsar, rescued kitties who love dressing up in pashabelle.com fashions.

A DOG OWNERS WORST NIGHTMARE: Imagine coming home from work, greeting your beloved pooch, opening up the back door, and letting Fido go in the yard, to do his business. Three minutes later you call him to come back in, but he is gone. Frantcially you search the yard, calling his name, using the ‘secret’ whistle that always brings him running to you. Then you your horror, you notice the gate has been opened and Fido has disappeared! The target: smaller purebreds like Yorkies, Shih Tzus, Malteses, Chihuahuas and Daschunds. These dogs are so small that they can fit into a knapsack or a jacket pocket. Designer pooches are valued from $200 – $1,800 on the street. The thief holds out hoping the reward increases, while the owner is frantically posting flyers, calling shelters, vets and groomers and basically losing sleep. The bottom line is that you cannot take your eyes off your companion animal for one minute.
Ways to help keep our furry ones safe: As a pet owner you need to utilize the same protocol and safety guidelines you would as if it were your child, i.e. don’t leave him in the car while you shop, don’t tie his leash outside a store while you’re inside dining. If you let your pet out to take care of business, go with him, keep your eyes on him at all times. If you can, have someone accompany you when taking your dog out for a daily walk. Be sure to keep a collar on him with tags that have your contact information. If your dog is micro chipped, be sure the chip is registered to your name, and that the company has your current information. Take clear, close up head photos of of your pets. If your dog is stolen, file a police report at your local precinct, and also call 311 to file a lost/stolen dog report. -excerpt from Craigslist.

                                                             Muffin's Pet Connection
                                                                      by Jude Lassow
                                                                    FEBRUARY 1, 2008
                                                        e-mail judespets@aol.com

THE ASPCA’S GUIDE TO A PET-FRIENDLY VALENTINE’S DAY: Please use caution with roses and other flowers containing thorns, which could prove harmful to pets if played with, bitten, stepped on or swallowed. ASPCA’ s, Dr. Louise Murray, Director of Medicine for the Bergh Memorial Animal Hospital, said "It’s all too easy for pets to step on thorny stems that fall to the ground as a flower arrangement is being created. Be sure to keep your pets clear of your workspace, since they can develop serious infections from thorn punctures. Also, many varieties of lilies are highly toxic to cats, so if these are your Valentine’s flower of choice, make sure your cats can’t get near them." Chocolate contains theobromine and caffeine, both methylxanthines that can cause stimulation of the central nervous system, an increase in heart rate and tremors. Vomiting, diarrhea, seizures, hyperactivity, increased thirst, urination and heart rate—can be seen with the ingestion of as little as two ounces of baking chocolate by a 10-pound dog. -excerpt from the ASPCA
Kitties go bonkers with the 5" PeggySue catnip cuddle doll. The Valentine doll includes a heart surprise! Each dolly is handmade by janetscreativepillows.com, with 100% stretchy grey cotton fabric, and contains organic catnip. 35% of the proceeds benefit The PeggySue HELP-A-PET fund. Happy Pets at 9818-4th Avenue sells PEGGYSUE dolls. HAPPY VALENTINE’S DAY!

MUFFIN’S TIP FOR MEDICATING KITTIES: SQUEAKS, our 6 month old rescued kitten, is still being treated for ears and eyes inflammation. She is such a trooper. Norm wraps her in a towel, and holds her close to his chest, gently talking to her. I give SQUEAKS some turkey and while she is purring, the ear flush is applied. Then it is more turkey for Squeaks. Again she purrs. Quickly, I dig out the debris with Q tips. Squeaks gets more turkey. Yummy. She is not afraid of our hands, as we probe and clean her eyes and ears. When I shake the turkey bag, she comes running and purring! For us, this method of giving her turkey, while medicating her, calms SQUEAKS down and she trusts us!

                                                             Muffin's Pet Connection
                                                                      by Jude Lassow
                                                                    JANUARY 25, 2008
                                                        e-mail judespets@aol.com

ASPCA NEWS ALERT: PET PARENTS: HOT TIPS FOR COLD WEATHER Winter is here the ASPCA wants to remind you that your four-legged companions may also be feeling the chill. Here are some tips to keep them safe and sound until springtime: Keep your cat inside. Outdoors, felines can freeze, become lost or be stolen, injured or killed. Cats who are allowed to stray are exposed to infectious diseases, including rabies, from other cats, dogs and wildlife. During the winter, outdoor cats sometimes crawl under the hoods of cars for warmth—but a car’s fan belt can kill or injure an animal when the motor starts. If there are outdoor or feral cats in your neighborhood, please bang on the hood of the car and wait a few seconds before turning on the engine. Never let your dog off the leash on snow or ice, especially during a snowstorm—dogs can lose their scent and easily become lost. More dogs are lost during the winter than during any other season, so make sure yours always wears ID tags. Never leave your dog or cat alone in a car during cold weather. A car can act as a refrigerator in the winter, holding in the cold and causing the animal to freeze to death. -excerp from the ASPCA

Valentine's Day Events: Meet Pashabelle - The Feline Fashion Diva
and her sidekick King Tsar; dressed in pashbelle.com original fashions.
‘Straight off the cat walk’ Sunday Noon-4pm February 3- POSH PET 94th Street & 4th AVE and FEBRUARY 10 - HAPPY PETS 9818-4th AVE.  Please come and have your photo taken with the DIVA and King Tsar. HAVE FUN Paws4Laws T shirts and 2008 desk calendar photos available. PeggySue catnip cuddle dolls and a Valentine surprise can be purchased at the store. VOLUNTEERS needed to assist JO at the events. Please call 718-833-7988. We need you and the pets need you. Thank you and God Bless!

DON'T DELAY: SPAY/NEUTER TODAY.  Call Jason at HAPPY PETS, 718-238-2246 for a Muffin's low
cost certificate. 

PRAYER REQUEST: Fifteen year old Digit, a stunning black kitty, was enjoying his four level pistacho ‘cat tree’, that is owner Maria Mawhirt won, from the PEGGYSUE ‘Help-A-Pet raffle. Digit became ill, and needs prayers of healing and comfort.

                                                             Muffin's Pet Connection
                                                                      by Jude Lassow
                                                                    JANUARY 18, 2008
                                                        e-mail judespets@aol.com

                                                           Muffin's Pet Connection
                                                                      by Jude Lassow
                                                                    JANUARY 11, 2008
                                                        e-mail judespets@aol.com

ASPCA NEWS ALERT: ARE YOUR FEATHERED FRIENDS SAFE?
Birds are highly sensitive to inhalant fumes. Avoid exposing your pet to fumes from self-cleaning ovens and overheated cookware, automobile exhaust, tobacco smoke, glues and paints, insecticidal fumigants, perfume and hair spray. Keep all prescription and over-the-counter drugs out of beak's reach, preferably in closed cabinets. Pain killers, cold medicines, anticancer drugs, vitamins and diet pills, are all lethal to birds, even in small amounts. Never allow your bird access to areas in which cleaning agents are being used or stored. If your pet ingests them, he could suffer from a range of symptoms, depending on the substance, from mild stomach upset to severe burns of the tongue, mouth and crop. -excerpt from ASPCA news

IN LOVING MEMORY OF SUNHUI MICHALSKI: A GENTLE SOUL. Sunny loved animals. She would feed stray cats, taking money from her meger monthly checks, making sure starving kitties had food in their tummys. She was married to Chester for 43 years, and they doted on Suzy, their five pound rescued Chihuahua. Shortly after fourteen year old Suzy passed away, Chester became gravely ill, and follwed his beloved Suzy. Sunny, who was from Korea, was alone. She had never been alone before. Her world was turned upside down. We, her friends at 310-94th Street, became her new family. Eric and Betty Mustafalic, the supers of our building, connected with Sunny. For four years, Sunny baby sat their children Destiny and Alben. She now had a purpose in life. One day, Sun was very excited about two cats that she was feeding in the basement of our apartment building. In her broken english, she mentioned to Norm from Muffins, about the cats. Norm and Sun would feed the three-legged semi-feral cat, and the black and white friendly feline. Weeks later, Eric explained that the basement was getting fumigated and the cats had to go! Muffin’s adopted PEGGYSUE the three-legged cat, and Kitty411 was adopted by a family. Sunny saved PEGGYSUE’s life. Everyday she came to visit PeggySue, feeding her treats from her hands. Sunny gentle spirit resonated and will be missed. God Bless!

                                                              Muffin's Pet Connection
                                                                      by Jude Lassow
                                                                    JANUARY 4, 2008
                                                        e-mail judespets@aol.com

UPDATE- BELLA NOELLA, the rescued 6 month old female, classic brown tabby kitty. In the January 21, 2007 issue of the HOME REPORTER, seven year old Destiny and eight year old Alben Mustafalic, wrote in ‘WE GET LETTERS’, about how they rescued a kitten on 88th Street and Shore Road. Since then, BELLA NOELLA has been spayed, blood tested negative for AIDS and LEUKEMIA, had her shots, and dewormed. She is being treated for conjunctivitis in both eyes and ear mites. Muffin’s subsidized all the medical fees and is fostering five and a half pound BELLA NOELLA. PeggySue, Calay and daMOUSE, our three kitties, are very curious about this new invader in their cage! BELLA NOELLA is very sweet. She plays with her PEGGYSUE doll, balls and a soft egg-shape toy that CAT DeCAPUA, gave to daMOUSE. JOANNA APPASS, suggested that before we medicate BELLA NOELLA, to play with her, and then gently wrap her in a towel, holding her close to our body. I offered her some sliced turkey, which she gobbled up, and was eagely licking my fingers, wanting more turkey. She was calmer and more receptive, as the eye drops were applied inside her eyes. I gave her a little more turkey, and she was purring, as the ear drop medication trickled on the ear mites. As I cleaned out her ears with a Q tip, BELLA’S only concern was, ‘where’s the turkey?’ PEGGYSUE, our three-legged rescued kitty was sitting about six inches from BELLA NOELLA, chomping on turkey. CALAY, our other three-legged kitty, sat on top of the cage, polking her paws at BELLA, who was standing up poking right back! BELLA growled at daMOUSE and he took off and hid in the bedroom. Girls rule, boys hide. Talk about girl power. Stayed tuned for the continuing kitty cat saga; will BELLA NOELLA be accepted by our three kitties? And the purrrs go on.

ADOPTION: MIKA is female, 1year, 30 pounds, TERRIER/WHIPPET mix. She has her shots, and is spayed. She is easily stimulated and needs a quiet, settled home with no children. She is fearful, loves dogs and running. 718-230-9112 

                                                             Muffin's Pet Connection
                                                                      by Jude Lassow
                                                                    DECEMBER 28, 2007
                                                        e-mail judespets@aol.com

WE GET LETTERS: "Hello everyone! My name is Destiny Mustafalic, and I am seven years old. While me, my mother and brother Alben were out on Shore Road posting flyers, a kitten crossed in front of us meowing. She got up on her back two paws, as if she was saying, ‘pick me up and take me home’. So my mom did. My mom put the kitten inside her jacket to keep her warm and zipped it up. The kitten was warm and fell asleep inside my moms jacket." "Hi my name is Alben Mustafalic, and I am eight years old. When me and my sister got home with my mom, my mom knocked on Jude’s door, my neighbor, and asked her what should we do with the kitten because we couldn't keep it. Jude said lets ask Alexandra and Hektor, our next door neighbors, if they would keep it for a few days until we find a home for her. So we knocked on my others neighbors door and asked her and her husband if they can keep the kitten for a few days until we find a home for it. Thank God for nice people. They said yes they would keep it until we find her a home. We were all happy for the kitten, because now she is in a warm place and has food to eat. Thanks to my nice neighbors. It was a happy ending after all". Bella Noella is a, gentle, three - four month old, brown tabby swril kitty who needs a home and a friend now. Call Jude at 718-833-7988.

                                                                Muffin's Pet Connection
                                                                      by Jude Lassow
                                                                    DECEMBER 21, 2007
                                                        e-mail judespets@aol.com

FIGHT ANIMAL CRUELTY: DOUBLE TROUBLE FOR ANIMAL ABUSERS:
Mobile Animal Crime Scene Investigation (CSI) Unit. ASPCA’S Dr. Melinda Merck, is the nation’s premier forensic veterinarian and animal CSI, at the wheel. The van will be available to travel to assist national and local law enforcement in their efforts to build cases against and prosecute animal cruelty offenders. The Ford E-450 (full-size van) customized by La Boit Inc. is 26 feet long, climate-controlled, full electronics suite with generator, allowing Dr. Merck to examine, care for animals found at suspected crime scenes, and includes a surgical suite. This will help get bad guys behind bars quickly! -excerpt from aspca.org

TOYKO: GENETICALLY ALTERED MICE HAVE NO FEAR. Cat and mouse may never be the same. Japanese scientists say they have used genetic engineering creating mice that show no fear of cats, a development that may shed new light on mammal behavior, and the nature of fear itself. Scientists at Tokyo University say they successfully switched off a mouse's instinct to cower at the smell or presence of cats; showing that fear is genetically hard-wired and not learned. Ko Kobayakawa, published in the science magazine Nature last month, said this should help researchers shed further light on how the brain processes information about the outside world. Excerpt from yahoo news

WE GET LETTERS: "Please post this for my LOST CAT: CALICO, one and a half years old. BAMBI is my heart and ears. I am hearing impaired. BAMBI is my therapy companion. She understands me. She was born in my apartment and slept with me every night. Her siblings miss her. Last seen 1939 E. 37^TH Street, (Avenue S & Filmore Avenue) Please call 718-531-3935. We pray for BAMBI to find her way back home. Thank you, Irene".

ADOPTION: MIKA is female, 1year, 30 pounds, TERRIER/WHIPPET mix. She has her shots, and is spayed. She is easily stimulated and needs a quiet, settled home with no children. She is fearful, loves dogs and running. 718-230-9112 

                                                               Muffin's Pet Connection
                                                                      by Jude Lassow
                                                                    DECEMBER 14, 2007
                                                     e-mail judespets@aol.com

PURRRING FELNES REDUCE STRESS: In Japan, Tokyo's Cafe Cat Calico, has a whole team of friendly kitties in residence just waiting to be petted and cuddled by worn out workers on their way home. For 800 yen (around $7) an hour, customers can spend quality time with their favorite feline. Weekends are busiest with up to 150 pet-friendly punters streaming in per day to have a cuddle with a cat. -excerpt from AOL

JFK UPDATE: New Protest Rally Tuesday, December 18 from 12:30pm to 1:30 pm, at the headquarters of Port Authority of NY and NJ. In Defense of Animals and Neighborhood Cats have called for another demonstration. Following the rally at 225 Park Avenue South, a number of representatives of prominent local and national animal welfare groups, including the ASPCA, Mayor's Alliance for NYC's Animals, and Humane Society of NY, plan to address the Port Authority's Board of Commissioners. "We are concerned about the lack of progress in putting a permanent end to the killing of hundreds of feral cats at JFK Airport and instead implementing a Trap-Neuter-Return project," said Valerie Sicignano, East Coast Coordinator for In Defense of Animals. Following intense public pressure and media coverage, the eradication campaign halted this past November 15. Animal activists are concerned the Port Authority may simply be trying to "wait it out" until things quiet down, then re-start the effort to trap the cats and dump them on local animal control shelters. WHAT YOU CAN DO: Go to the Rally! Keep up or resume emails and phone calls to Port Authority officials. Go to neighborhoodcats.org or call 212-662-5761 for contact information. Get a phone number with a live human. Be a positive voice for these feral felines. Let the Port Authority know we are not going away!

SPAY/NEUTER is the pet overpopulation solution: 718-833-7988
Spay one cat, and prevent the birth of 100 unwanted, homeless kittens. It is more economical, morally and spiritually right to alter a pet, rather than euthanize.

ADOPTIONS: Go to muffins.org and see photos of loving pets needing forever homes. Mention the HOME REPORTER.

FUN FACT: "Shortfin Mako" is the fastest shark, and can swim as fast as sixty miles per hour.

                                                             Muffin's Pet Connection
                                                                      by Jude Lassow
                                                                    DECEMBER 7, 2007
                                                     e-mail judespets@aol.com

LOVE WANTED ADOPTION EVENT: DATE: Sunday December 9, 2007 11:30am - 4pm PLACE: REGINA PACIS YOUTH CENTER; 1258 - 65th Street, Brooklyn (65th Street and 12th Avenue) Rain or Shine! Spread joy this holiday season. Save the life of a shelter pet! Puppies, kittens, dogs and cats are looking for loving forever homes. The animals are from the Animal Care & Control shelter and North Shore Animal League. Have your picture taken with SANTA PAWS. Come and meet THE DIVA, Pashabelle and Tsar her Catfu side kick, dressed in their gorgeous feline handmade holiday outfits, straight off the cat walk.

THE WINNERS ARE for the PEGGYSUE ‘Help-A-Pet’ raffle: Maria Mawhirt, Phyllis Jordan, Connie Fontana, Rhoda Karp, Marie, and Jo. Muffin’s thanks the raffle sponsors; CG Kelly, NYCPets.com, Laura Bolle`, Janet Bernasconi, and Joanna Appass for their generous support and belief in our programs. Thank you and God Bless! We are preparing for our next PEGGYSUE ‘Help-A-Pet’ raffle. Please email judespets@aol.com if you have any suggestions or ideas.

FERAL CAT SOULTION: HAPPY PETS, 9818-4th Avenue, sell MAMA, the TNR feral cat spaying and neutering coupons, for FERAL CATS IN A TRAP. It covers examination, surgery, anesthesia, dissolvable stitches if needed, left ear tipping and rabies shot. Traps and cages rental are also available from JASON at Happy Pets. Please call 718-238-2246. Altering a cat is the solution for the enormous cat overpopulation! Feeding without fixing the cats first, is the problem. In seven years, one unspayed female cat and her babies can reproduce 420,000 cats! Sadly, four and five month old female kittens are getting pregnant. This is scary. Muffin’s bottle fed a male kitty, and placed SweetPea in a great home. When he was three months old, SWEETPEA was in heat, and doing things to a doll. The following he was neutered day. The hormones are kicking early for humans and animals. What is wrong with this picture?

                                                                Muffin's Pet Connection
                                                                      by Jude Lassow
                                                                    NOVEMBER 30, 2007
                                                     e-mail judespets@aol.com

ASPCA COLD WEATHER TIPS FOR PETS: Keep kitties indoors! Outdoors, felines can freeze or become lost or injured. Infectious diseases from other stray animals are harmful to roaming cats. ANTIFREEZE, while essential to a car's cooling system, is very dangerous to your pets. Thoroughly clean, any spills from your vehicle. Consider using products that contain propylene glycol rather than ethylene glycol. Thoroughly wipe off your dog’s feet, legs, and tummy when he comes in out of the elements. He can ingest salt, antifreeze, or other potentially dangerous chemicals while licking his paws and his pads may also bleed from snow or encrusted ice. Make sure your pet has a warm place to sleep, off the floor and away from all drafts. A cozy dog or cat bed with a warm pillow or blanket is purrfect. -excerpt from ASPCA

PURRFECT REASON TO ADOPT OLDER CAT: A young adult cat is purrfect for a home with smaller children, a working single or couple; the cat can be unattended