The Metro Council had delayed a vote on a proposal to ban pet owners from chaining their dogs for more than an hour. After taking testimony on the proposal Wednesday, the council raised concerns that the ordinance would not be enforceable, and asked for 30 days to gather more information. If adopted, Baton Rouge would join a growing list of communities that restrict dog chaining. Violators could be fined a maximum of $500 and could face up to 180 days in jail. Councilman John Delgado, who co-authored the measure, says the issue is very important to him personally, as the owner of three rescue dogs. "If something is wrong, call it wrong and make it against the law," he says. "When I see that animals are being mistreated, if I have the ability to do even the smallest thing about it, I'm going to do it." Councilman Buddy Amoroso, also a co-author, previously commented...
If you love to spoil your dog, you won't want to miss this weekend's Fur Ball. The area's premier pet-friendly gala celebrates well-behaved canines for a good cause. While dogs enjoy a day at the Petz Plaza Spa, owners can enjoy a silent auction, live music from the Doc Holliday Band, food and drinks. Proceeds from the event benefit the Companion Animal Alliance of Baton Rouge. Fur Ball kicks off at 6:30 p.m. at Crowne Plaza, 4728 Constitution Ave. Individual tickets are $125, $75 for those under age 35, and $75 per dog. Tickets can be purchased here, and for more information visit furball.org. Get the lowdown on more local happenings on tap this weekend in the new 225 Weekender e-newsletter here.
On May 4, Companion Animal Alliance (CAA) presents its second annual Furball from 6:30 p.m.-10: 30 p.m. at the Crowne Plaza Hotel. "It's the most unique event you can attend," says event coordinator Dennise Reno. "Where you can party with your pooch in Baton Rouge."
Baton Rouge could soon join a growing list of communities that ban dog owners from chaining their pets. An ordinance up for a vote at next week's Metro Council meeting would ban dog chaining for more than an hour. Under the ordinance, violators could be fined a maximum of $500 and could face up to 180 days in jail. Councilman Buddy Amoroso says he co-authored the measure as a public safety effort and to combat dog fighting. He says chaining is used by dog fighters as a way to keep the animals "in a constant state of aggression." Chained or tethered dogs also can pose a public safety hazard once they're freed, he says. The Humane Society has worked to promote prohibitions on dog chaining, claiming that chaining dogs is inhumane and dangerous to humans. As part of an anti-chaining campaign, the Humane Society outlines the dangers, saying: "A chained dog, unable to take flight, often feels forced to fight, attacking any unfamiliar animal or person who unwittingly wanders into his or her...
Like a lot of young girls, Lindsey Weinstein became enamored with horses while still a toddler. She celebrated her second and third birthdays with pony parties at Kleinpeter Farms, and by the time she could read she had her sights set on a pony of her own.
Join the nonprofit Companion Animal Alliance at 6:30 p.m. May 4 at the Crowne Plaza Hotel for what is sure to be a howlin' good time. The second annual Fur Ball, a pet-friendly black-tie gala, includes a Petz Plaza Spa, silent auction, cocktail buffet, and entertainment by Doc Holliday swing orchestra. Purchase tickets here.
With proceeds benefiting the Companion Animal Alliance, the second annual Fur Ball will be held on Saturday, May 4, from 6:30 to 10:30 p.m. at the Crowne Plaza Baton Rouge, 4728 Constitution Ave. Tickets for people and dogs range from $75 to $125, and there are also options to purchase couples tickets and tables of 12 (10 people, 2 dogs). This year's Fur Ball will feature a gala with cocktails, red carpet photos, live and silent auction, and entertainment by the Doc Holliday Band. You can get all the details and purchase tickets online here. Dogs can be checked into the Petz Plaza spa at the event or be kept on a leash or in a carrier for the festivities. The Fur Ball will feature both a live and silent auction.
Companion Animal Alliance (CAA) recently received a $3,000 grant from the ASPCA (American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals) to help purchase feed and hay for the horses in its care.
It's good to be a cow—especially if your caretakers are the folks at Kleinpeter Farms Dairy. Just like members of the family, each animal in the herd at the company's 1,500-acre farm in Montpelier is known by a personal name, not just a number on an ear tag.
Stacie Roberson didn't set out to rescue a dog last August. She actually volunteered to photograph cats at the East Baton Rouge Parish Animal Shelter for Petfinder's adoption website.
Magic Happens Rabbit Rescue (MHRR) recently launched a revolutionary Facebook campaign to educate the public about responsible rabbit ownership. The first (pictured) in its series of posters has received more than 1,600 shares.
This Sunday afternoon, Feliciana Animal Welfare Society (FAWS) launches its first annual Running of the Dogs at BREC's Zachary Community Park. The event is part of the Zfest, otherwise known as Zachary Art & Music Festival.
At a recent PetSmart Millerville tent event, the SPCA of Livingston adopted 52 animals over the weekend. That number is certainly impressive; but, it's not the only thing the group achieved. Hundreds of people who browsed the event received an education in responsible pet ownership. Large, eye-catching cards attached to each adoptable pet's kennel read: I am NOT an until-you-get-a-new-boyfriend/girlfriend dog. I am NOT an until-you-have-your-first-child dog. I am NOT an until-I-am-no-longer-a-puppy dog. I am NOT an until-you-have-to-move dog. I am NOT an until-you-have-no-time dog. I am NOT an until-I get-old-or-sick dog. I am a FOREVER dog. It's just that simple. If you can't give me FOREVER, then I am NOT YOUR DOG.
In downtown Baton Rouge, Hotel Indigo has begun offering new amenity that is receiving rave reviews from regular guests: a hound to take out on the town. This past December, Hotel Indigo adopted a three-year-old terrier mix, who serves as its pet ambassador.
Other than perhaps cockroaches, no creature is more reviled than rats. Even before the bubonic plague killed one-third of Europe in 1300s, the rodents have consistently been responsible for the spread of disease epidemics throughout the human population. So, it's no surprise people have put their faith in everyone from the Pied Piper to Billy the Exterminator and tried anything to get rid of the vermin. But, perhaps, now we've gone too far.
In 1973, the LSU School of Veterinary Medicine accepted its first class. Since then, more than 2,500 students have achieved their dream of becoming a veterinarian. In addition, the school has educated research scientists, helped find cures for diseases and provided state-of-the-art care for thousands of pets each year. This Saturday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., LSU SVM celebrates 40 years of excellence at it annual open house.
This year’s annual Mystic Krewe of Mutt is guaranteed to be Totally Paw-some. While the 1980s themed parade rolls down North Boulevard on January 27 at 1:30 p.m., the day is filled with Fido-friendly events.
This weekend, Baton Rouge Audubon Society presents two events that encourage Capital City residents take advantage of winter migration patterns and become acquainted with the nine species of hummingbird who flock to Louisiana each year.
Since its founding in 2009, Yelp!BR earned a perpetual place on the “nice” list by rescuing and rehoming more than 1,000 dogs and puppies. Those animals came from the East Baton Rouge Parish Animal Shelter, where only one of every two dogs is lucky enough to find a new home.
Finding a great Christmas feline-friendly present for family and friends can be a challenge. Perhaps, no one knows the needs and desires of cat connoisseurs better than Maria Elise Thomas.
Just in time for the holidays, CAA introduces the 12 Strays of Christmas. Throughout December, all shelter animals are available for adoption for only $12. Remarkably, that fee includes a veterinary examination, spaying/neutering, vaccinations, microchipping and heartworm or FIV testing.
The Humane Society of the United States, In Defense of Animals and Ally Cat Allies have combined their resources to offer a $11,000 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the individuals who have been harming cats in East Feliciana Parish.
Who doesn't want to share the Thanksgiving feast with their favorite beasts? Since pets are part of family, it's tempting to indulge and involve them in all holiday festivities. Still, slurping alcoholic drinks, munching on undercooked turkey or an alluring-but-toxic floral centerpiece can cause party animals—both furry and human—to abandon their guests for a trip to the emergency room. So, the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) offers these tips for a Thanksgiving that pets can enjoy too.
To celebrate Veterans' Day, Companion Animal Alliance (CAA) announces a new partnership with the national Companions for Heroes (C4H). This year-round program pairs shelter animals with active and retired military personnel, first responders and their families. The program is both a way to honor and aid individuals who serve their country and their communities and sometimes suffer physical and/or psychological trauma as a result of those experiences.
They come with a meowertrain warranty and have undergone a rigorous four-paw inspection. Whether they are compact or luxury sized, Project Purr and Companion Animal Alliance are offering a “certified pre-owned” cats for a discounted fee this week. The promotion highlights the plight of adult cats, who are often overlooked due to the cuteness of kittens.
Tomorrow night (October 30) from 6 to 9 p.m., Friends of the Animals (FOTA) hosts its second annual Roux House fundraiser and auction. Besides improving the quality of life for shelter animals, the $15 cover charge at the adults-only venue includes two-for-one drink specials, red beans and rice, a costume contest and music by the Groove Factory.
This week, Companion Animal Alliance (CAA) launches its Good as Gold adoption event. From October 15 through 31, the adoption fee for all gold-colored dogs, puppies, cats and kittens are reduced to $50. For the fee, qualified adopters receive a gorgeous ginger companion who is microchipped and up-to-date on vaccinations, heartworm and flea prevention. In addition, each adoption also includes a bag of Solid Gold treats.
By now, most local animal lovers are aware of the tremendous number of homeless animals in Baton Rouge. But far too few realize they personally have the power to solve the problem by making the difference in the life of just one animal. And, they can do it from the comfort of their own homes.
Even if they don't live with—and especially if they don't even like—cats, Event Chair Jennifer Anderson believes Baton Rougeans have a vested interest in supporting this Friday's Cat Haven Cat Tales & Cocktails gala.
Last week, The Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) released the results of a five-year study analyzing complaints from families who purchased puppies from pet stores or online. Even though the number of cases is relatively small, the study has large implications for the pet-buying public.
Owning a dog had always been Luke Alfasso's dream. But asthma, an allergy to dog dander, and life in a dog-free apartment complex in Brooklyn had conspired to limit Luke's pet collection to a red-tailed shark and bearded dragon. However, within the last year, the 10-year-old outgrew his allergies enough to volunteer at the Pets Alive shelter in Elmsford, N.Y. As he and his mother, Victoria, trained dogs to make them more adoptable, they discussed and researched the attributes they would seek in a dog—if and when the time came to choose a pooch to call their own. After the family moved into a dog-friendly apartment, Luke began keeping a list of his favorite dog names on the refrigerator and diligently checking the shelter's website, looking for his new pet.
In the past week, 103 dogs and puppies—a quarter of the kennel—from the East Baton Rouge Parish animal shelter have been transported across the country to improve their chances of adoption.
Generally considered the best-looking Mike the Tiger in LSU's history—veterinarian Dr. David Baker says the cat's markings are “unlike any tiger we have ever had”—Mike VI made his Tiger Stadium debut on Oct. 6, 2007, for a showdown versus the returning national champions of Florida. Clearly the new Mike did the trick, as LSU rallied to beat Tim Tebow and his ninth-ranked Gators 28-24 on their way to a BCS National Championship.
A stigma has always loomed large over shelter or “pound” pets. Some people wrongly conclude the homeless animals are diseased, undesirable, unwanted, ill-mannered mongrels, who did something to land in their precarious predicament.
When Paul Salvant opened his pest control company, The Bug Man Inc., in 1978, he never thought the day would come where he would be crawling around a house looking for snakes in an attic.
Move over, Marty! There's a new striped superstar in town. And, this one won't be migrating to Madagascar or Monte Carlo any time soon—or performing in a rainbow Afro and pastel polka dots.
Looking for a stylish way to spend a dog day afternoon with your friends and their furry friends? This Saturday, Spay Baton Rouge hosts an Oscar-themed fashion show fundraiser for pups and their people inside Harley Davidson Baton Rouge.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, excessive heat exposure caused 8,015 deaths in the United States between 1979 and 2003 (the last large study). During that period, more American died from extreme heat than from hurricanes, lightning, tornadoes, floods, and earthquakes combined.
Recently, the American Humane Association awarded Kleinpeter Farms Dairy a perfect score for the care and handling of its 1200-cow herd in Montpelier, La. In the Humane Association's 130-year history, Kleinpeter remains the only farm to receive its highest rating four times in a row.
In August 2011, Companion Animal Alliance (CAA) took over the management of the East Baton Rouge Parish animal shelter. Recently, CAA debuted the Fur Ball, the city's first pet-friendly black-tie fundraiser, and welcomed its new executive director, Kimberly Sherlaw.
Candis Craig doesn't have to look far to find pets in need of rescue. During a recent drive home from work at Park Forest Animal Hospital, she was surprised by a parade of little white-and-honey-colored puppies trotting right in front of her SUV.
In January 2011 225 told the story of one of the most revered, innovative dog trainers in Louisiana—and, arguably, the nation. Now a local filmmaker with hundreds of hours of footage is close to rolling out Dog Man: The Dick Russell Story, a feature-length documentary on the Baton Rouge trainer who died of complications from cancer last year. "I first met him, and he was in his overalls, stomping and speaking to these dogs, and I thought, 'Unbelievable! Who else in their 70s would be on their hands and knees on concrete for someone else's pets? I have to tell his story,' " says award-winning commercial director Richie Adams. Dog Man traces Russell's unique methods, his selfless love of animals and their owners, and the lasting impact he had on both local families and dog training nationwide. Beyond key partnerships with Petz Plaza, Raising Cane's and Zoes Kitchen, Dog Man has been Adams' self-funded passion project. In April he launched
Now that school's out, many Louisiana families are taking to the woods for camping, hiking, biking, waterskiing, swimming and other outdoor adventures. As the temperature rises, so does the chance of encountering raccoons, roseate spoonbills, possums, turtles, snakes and other Louisiana wildlife. Some families are even fortunate enough to find a white-tailed fawn.
Today, Companion Animal Alliance (CAA) joins shelters across the country in showing its support for the No Kill movement and raising awareness about the importance of adopting animals at local shelters. Sponsored nationally by the No Kill Advocacy Center, Animal Ark and Animal Wise Radio, the Just One Day campaign encourages shelters to sign a pledge not to kill any savable animals on June 11, 2012.
Do your kids love animals? Sign them up for one of the LSU School of Veterinary Medicine’s weekly kid-friendly seminars. The goal is to encourage school-aged children to gain a greater understanding of other species, get involved in pet care and consider a career in veterinary medicine. All presentations are free and open to children 6 and older and their parents, but pre-registration is requested. Topics range from rescuing wild animals to proper pet care and feeding. Click here for more information.
Looking to expand your family with a loyal four-legged friend? Head to the Millerville Road PetsMart location this weekend! Representatives from both Yelp!BR and Project Purr will be on-site with dozens of adoptable animals who are in need of good homes. All animals have been given top-notch veterinary care, including vaccines, microchipping, deworming and disease screening. Dog lovers can find Yelp!BR volunteers and dogs on-site 11:30 a.m. until 4 p.m. both Saturday and Sunday. Friends of felines can meet Project Purr volunteers and cats from noon to 4 p.m. on Saturday, and 1 to 4 p.m. on Sunday.
Dog chaining ordinance tabled
The Metro Council had delayed a vote on a proposal to ban pet owners from chaining their dogs for more than an hour. After taking testimony on the proposal Wednesday, the council raised concerns that the ordinance would not be enforceable, and asked for 30 days to gather more information. If adopted, Baton Rouge would join a growing list of communities that restrict dog chaining. Violators could be fined a maximum of $500 and could face up to 180 days in jail. Councilman John Delgado, who co-authored the measure, says the issue is very important to him personally, as the owner of three rescue dogs. "If something is wrong, call it wrong and make it against the law," he says. "When I see that animals are being mistreated, if I have the ability to do even the smallest thing about it, I'm going to do it." Councilman Buddy Amoroso, also a co-author, previously commented...
'225 Weekender': Treat your pets right Saturday at Fur Ball
If you love to spoil your dog, you won't want to miss this weekend's Fur Ball. The area's premier pet-friendly gala celebrates well-behaved canines for a good cause. While dogs enjoy a day at the Petz Plaza Spa, owners can enjoy a silent auction, live music from the Doc Holliday Band, food and drinks. Proceeds from the event benefit the Companion Animal Alliance of Baton Rouge. Fur Ball kicks off at 6:30 p.m. at Crowne Plaza, 4728 Constitution Ave. Individual tickets are $125, $75 for those under age 35, and $75 per dog. Tickets can be purchased here, and for more information visit furball.org. Get the lowdown on more local happenings on tap this weekend in the new 225 Weekender e-newsletter here.
Posh party for pups and their people benefits city shelter
On May 4, Companion Animal Alliance (CAA) presents its second annual Furball from 6:30 p.m.-10: 30 p.m. at the Crowne Plaza Hotel. "It's the most unique event you can attend," says event coordinator Dennise Reno. "Where you can party with your pooch in Baton Rouge."
Councilman says chaining restriction aimed at dog fighters
Baton Rouge could soon join a growing list of communities that ban dog owners from chaining their pets. An ordinance up for a vote at next week's Metro Council meeting would ban dog chaining for more than an hour. Under the ordinance, violators could be fined a maximum of $500 and could face up to 180 days in jail. Councilman Buddy Amoroso says he co-authored the measure as a public safety effort and to combat dog fighting. He says chaining is used by dog fighters as a way to keep the animals "in a constant state of aggression." Chained or tethered dogs also can pose a public safety hazard once they're freed, he says. The Humane Society has worked to promote prohibitions on dog chaining, claiming that chaining dogs is inhumane and dangerous to humans. As part of an anti-chaining campaign, the Humane Society outlines the dangers, saying: "A chained dog, unable to take flight, often feels forced to fight, attacking any unfamiliar animal or person who unwittingly wanders into his or her...
Green acres
When Amanda Purdin Standish began riding horses as an 8-year-old, her parents, Suzanne Turner and Scott Purdin, tried to talk her out of it.
Horse power
Like a lot of young girls, Lindsey Weinstein became enamored with horses while still a toddler. She celebrated her second and third birthdays with pony parties at Kleinpeter Farms, and by the time she could read she had her sights set on a pony of her own.
Party with your pooch
Join the nonprofit Companion Animal Alliance at 6:30 p.m. May 4 at the Crowne Plaza Hotel for what is sure to be a howlin' good time. The second annual Fur Ball, a pet-friendly black-tie gala, includes a Petz Plaza Spa, silent auction, cocktail buffet, and entertainment by Doc Holliday swing orchestra. Purchase tickets here.
Second annual Fur Ball set for May 4
With proceeds benefiting the Companion Animal Alliance, the second annual Fur Ball will be held on Saturday, May 4, from 6:30 to 10:30 p.m. at the Crowne Plaza Baton Rouge, 4728 Constitution Ave. Tickets for people and dogs range from $75 to $125, and there are also options to purchase couples tickets and tables of 12 (10 people, 2 dogs). This year's Fur Ball will feature a gala with cocktails, red carpet photos, live and silent auction, and entertainment by the Doc Holliday Band. You can get all the details and purchase tickets online here. Dogs can be checked into the Petz Plaza spa at the event or be kept on a leash or in a carrier for the festivities. The Fur Ball will feature both a live and silent auction.
ASPCA grants helps horses get the care they deserve
Companion Animal Alliance (CAA) recently received a $3,000 grant from the ASPCA (American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals) to help purchase feed and hay for the horses in its care.
Local rescues
APAWS (Animal Protection and Welfare Society)
Capital Area Welfare Society (CAAWS)
Companion Animal Alliance
Companion Animal Rescue of Ascension
Delta Humane Society
FAWS (Felciana Animal Welfare Society) Clinton, LA
Friends of the Animals Baton Rouge (FOTA)
Livingston SPCA
Looking Fur Love Dog Rescue
Northside Humane Society
The cream rises
It's good to be a cow—especially if your caretakers are the folks at Kleinpeter Farms Dairy. Just like members of the family, each animal in the herd at the company's 1,500-acre farm in Montpelier is known by a personal name, not just a number on an ear tag.
Happy tails to you
Do you love kittens?
Homeward bound
Stacie Roberson didn't set out to rescue a dog last August. She actually volunteered to photograph cats at the East Baton Rouge Parish Animal Shelter for Petfinder's adoption website.
Hopping to the right conclusions about Easter bunnies
Magic Happens Rabbit Rescue (MHRR) recently launched a revolutionary Facebook campaign to educate the public about responsible rabbit ownership. The first (pictured) in its series of posters has received more than 1,600 shares.
Running with the Dogs 5K set for Sunday
This Sunday afternoon, Feliciana Animal Welfare Society (FAWS) launches its first annual Running of the Dogs at BREC's Zachary Community Park. The event is part of the Zfest, otherwise known as Zachary Art & Music Festival.
Inspiring International Art
If critics doubt the abundant inspiration animals offer artists, they need only take an art survey of South Louisiana's fine galleries.
Livingston SPCA Gives Adopters and Owners Cause to Pause
At a recent PetSmart Millerville tent event, the SPCA of Livingston adopted 52 animals over the weekend. That number is certainly impressive; but, it's not the only thing the group achieved. Hundreds of people who browsed the event received an education in responsible pet ownership. Large, eye-catching cards attached to each adoptable pet's kennel read:
I am NOT an until-you-get-a-new-boyfriend/girlfriend dog.
I am NOT an until-you-have-your-first-child dog.
I am NOT an until-I-am-no-longer-a-puppy dog.
I am NOT an until-you-have-to-move dog.
I am NOT an until-you-have-no-time dog.
I am NOT an until-I get-old-or-sick dog.
I am a FOREVER dog. It's just that simple.
If you can't give me FOREVER, then I am NOT YOUR DOG.
Huey P. Back on the Move in Downtown Baton Rouge
In downtown Baton Rouge, Hotel Indigo has begun offering new amenity that is receiving rave reviews from regular guests: a hound to take out on the town. This past December, Hotel Indigo adopted a three-year-old terrier mix, who serves as its pet ambassador.
Saving the shore & coastal wildlife
Any third-grade science class graduate understands the connection between the preservation of habitat to the food chain and the survival of wildlife.
Keeping a Safe Pace in the Rat Race
Other than perhaps cockroaches, no creature is more reviled than rats. Even before the bubonic plague killed one-third of Europe in 1300s, the rodents have consistently been responsible for the spread of disease epidemics throughout the human population. So, it's no surprise people have put their faith in everyone from the Pied Piper to Billy the Exterminator and tried anything to get rid of the vermin. But, perhaps, now we've gone too far.
LSU Vet School open house celebrates 40 years of excellence
In 1973, the LSU School of Veterinary Medicine accepted its first class. Since then, more than 2,500 students have achieved their dream of becoming a veterinarian. In addition, the school has educated research scientists, helped find cures for diseases and provided state-of-the-art care for thousands of pets each year. This Saturday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., LSU SVM celebrates 40 years of excellence at it annual open house.
Totally paw-some parade rolls this Sunday
This year’s annual Mystic Krewe of Mutt is guaranteed to be Totally Paw-some. While the 1980s themed parade rolls down North Boulevard on January 27 at 1:30 p.m., the day is filled with Fido-friendly events.
Hum along with BRAS this weekend
This weekend, Baton Rouge Audubon Society presents two events that encourage Capital City residents take advantage of winter migration patterns and become acquainted with the nine species of hummingbird who flock to Louisiana each year.
Wishing dog owners a very yappy holiday
Since its founding in 2009, Yelp!BR earned a perpetual place on the “nice” list by rescuing and rehoming more than 1,000 dogs and puppies. Those animals came from the East Baton Rouge Parish Animal Shelter, where only one of every two dogs is lucky enough to find a new home.
Gift suggestions for Santa Claws
Finding a great Christmas feline-friendly present for family and friends can be a challenge. Perhaps, no one knows the needs and desires of cat connoisseurs better than Maria Elise Thomas.
The 12 Strays of Christmas
Just in time for the holidays, CAA introduces the 12 Strays of Christmas. Throughout December, all shelter animals are available for adoption for only $12. Remarkably, that fee includes a veterinary examination, spaying/neutering, vaccinations, microchipping and heartworm or FIV testing.
National non-profits offer $11,000 reward in Feliciana cruelty cases
The Humane Society of the United States, In Defense of Animals and Ally Cat Allies have combined their resources to offer a $11,000 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the individuals who have been harming cats in East Feliciana Parish.
Sharing the feast with your beast
Who doesn't want to share the Thanksgiving feast with their favorite beasts? Since pets are part of family, it's tempting to indulge and involve them in all holiday festivities. Still, slurping alcoholic drinks, munching on undercooked turkey or an alluring-but-toxic floral centerpiece can cause party animals—both furry and human—to abandon their guests for a trip to the emergency room. So, the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) offers these tips for a Thanksgiving that pets can enjoy too.
Helping heroes and saving shelter animals
To celebrate Veterans' Day, Companion Animal Alliance (CAA) announces a new partnership with the national Companions for Heroes (C4H). This year-round program pairs shelter animals with active and retired military personnel, first responders and their families. The program is both a way to honor and aid individuals who serve their country and their communities and sometimes suffer physical and/or psychological trauma as a result of those experiences.
Getting the catfax on adult adoption
They come with a meowertrain warranty and have undergone a rigorous four-paw inspection. Whether they are compact or luxury sized, Project Purr and Companion Animal Alliance are offering a “certified pre-owned” cats for a discounted fee this week. The promotion highlights the plight of adult cats, who are often overlooked due to the cuteness of kittens.
FOTA fundraiser at Roux House
Tomorrow night (October 30) from 6 to 9 p.m., Friends of the Animals (FOTA) hosts its second annual Roux House fundraiser and auction. Besides improving the quality of life for shelter animals, the $15 cover charge at the adults-only venue includes two-for-one drink specials, red beans and rice, a costume contest and music by the Groove Factory.
A golden opportunity to adopt great dogs and cats
This week, Companion Animal Alliance (CAA) launches its Good as Gold adoption event. From October 15 through 31, the adoption fee for all gold-colored dogs, puppies, cats and kittens are reduced to $50. For the fee, qualified adopters receive a gorgeous ginger companion who is microchipped and up-to-date on vaccinations, heartworm and flea prevention. In addition, each adoption also includes a bag of Solid Gold treats.
The power of one (foster)
By now, most local animal lovers are aware of the tremendous number of homeless animals in Baton Rouge. But far too few realize they personally have the power to solve the problem by making the difference in the life of just one animal. And, they can do it from the comfort of their own homes.
For Wild Time, Call Robert
Now, that the weather is getting cooler, it's a great time to plan an outdoor expedition to where the wild things are.
Fundraiser allows the Capital City to contribute to Cat Haven's community kitty
Even if they don't live with—and especially if they don't even like—cats, Event Chair Jennifer Anderson believes Baton Rougeans have a vested interest in supporting this Friday's Cat Haven Cat Tales & Cocktails gala.
New HSUS study exposes the perils of purchasing puppies
Last week, The Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) released the results of a five-year study analyzing complaints from families who purchased puppies from pet stores or online. Even though the number of cases is relatively small, the study has large implications for the pet-buying public.
Pound pups with happy tales
Owning a dog had always been Luke Alfasso's dream. But asthma, an allergy to dog dander, and life in a dog-free apartment complex in Brooklyn had conspired to limit Luke's pet collection to a red-tailed shark and bearded dragon. However, within the last year, the 10-year-old outgrew his allergies enough to volunteer at the Pets Alive shelter in Elmsford, N.Y. As he and his mother, Victoria, trained dogs to make them more adoptable, they discussed and researched the attributes they would seek in a dog—if and when the time came to choose a pooch to call their own. After the family moved into a dog-friendly apartment, Luke began keeping a list of his favorite dog names on the refrigerator and diligently checking the shelter's website, looking for his new pet.
Discarded Dogs No More
In the past week, 103 dogs and puppies—a quarter of the kennel—from the East Baton Rouge Parish animal shelter have been transported across the country to improve their chances of adoption.
What a cat
Generally considered the best-looking Mike the Tiger in LSU's history—veterinarian Dr. David Baker says the cat's markings are “unlike any tiger we have ever had”—Mike VI made his Tiger Stadium debut on Oct. 6, 2007, for a showdown versus the returning national champions of Florida. Clearly the new Mike did the trick, as LSU rallied to beat Tim Tebow and his ninth-ranked Gators 28-24 on their way to a BCS National Championship.
Opportunity Takes Shelter Animals From the Bayou to the Borscht Belt
A stigma has always loomed large over shelter or “pound” pets. Some people wrongly conclude the homeless animals are diseased, undesirable, unwanted, ill-mannered mongrels, who did something to land in their precarious predicament.
Critter control
When Paul Salvant opened his pest control company, The Bug Man Inc., in 1978, he never thought the day would come where he would be crawling around a house looking for snakes in an attic.
A New Striped Superstar in Town
Move over, Marty!
There's a new striped superstar in town. And, this one won't be migrating to Madagascar or Monte Carlo any time soon—or performing in a rainbow Afro and pastel polka dots.
Hooray for Harleywood
Looking for a stylish way to spend a dog day afternoon with your friends and their furry friends?
This Saturday, Spay Baton Rouge hosts an Oscar-themed fashion show fundraiser for pups and their people inside Harley Davidson Baton Rouge.
A guide to the Dog Days—even for cats
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, excessive heat exposure caused 8,015 deaths in the United States between 1979 and 2003 (the last large study). During that period, more American died from extreme heat than from hurricanes, lightning, tornadoes, floods, and earthquakes combined.
New campaign 'moo-ves' Louisianans to improve the lives of homeless animals
Recently, the American Humane Association awarded Kleinpeter Farms Dairy a perfect score for the care and handling of its 1200-cow herd in Montpelier, La. In the Humane Association's 130-year history, Kleinpeter remains the only farm to receive its highest rating four times in a row.
30 seconds: Animal instincts at the CAA
In August 2011, Companion Animal Alliance (CAA) took over the management of the East Baton Rouge Parish animal shelter. Recently, CAA debuted the Fur Ball, the city's first pet-friendly black-tie fundraiser, and welcomed its new executive director, Kimberly Sherlaw.
Rescue.me provides a picture perfect fundraiser
Candis Craig doesn't have to look far to find pets in need of rescue. During a recent drive home from work at Park Forest Animal Hospital, she was surprised by a parade of little white-and-honey-colored puppies trotting right in front of her SUV.
'225': You dog, you
In January 2011 225 told the story of one of the most revered, innovative dog trainers in Louisiana—and, arguably, the nation. Now a local filmmaker with hundreds of hours of footage is close to rolling out Dog Man: The Dick Russell Story, a feature-length documentary on the Baton Rouge trainer who died of complications from cancer last year. "I first met him, and he was in his overalls, stomping and speaking to these dogs, and I thought, 'Unbelievable! Who else in their 70s would be on their hands and knees on concrete for someone else's pets? I have to tell his story,' " says award-winning commercial director Richie Adams. Dog Man traces Russell's unique methods, his selfless love of animals and their owners, and the lasting impact he had on both local families and dog training nationwide. Beyond key partnerships with Petz Plaza, Raising Cane's and Zoes Kitchen, Dog Man has been Adams' self-funded passion project. In April he launched
LDWF cautions Louisianans against fawning over wildlife this summer
Now that school's out, many Louisiana families are taking to the woods for camping, hiking, biking, waterskiing, swimming and other outdoor adventures.
As the temperature rises, so does the chance of encountering raccoons, roseate spoonbills, possums, turtles, snakes and other Louisiana wildlife. Some families are even fortunate enough to find a white-tailed fawn.
Find your perfect pet in just one day
Today, Companion Animal Alliance (CAA) joins shelters across the country in showing its support for the No Kill movement and raising awareness about the importance of adopting animals at local shelters.
Sponsored nationally by the No Kill Advocacy Center, Animal Ark and Animal Wise Radio, the Just One Day campaign encourages shelters to sign a pledge not to kill any savable animals on June 11, 2012.
Vet school classes for critter-crazy kids
Do your kids love animals? Sign them up for one of the LSU School of Veterinary Medicine’s weekly kid-friendly seminars. The goal is to encourage school-aged children to gain a greater understanding of other species, get involved in pet care and consider a career in veterinary medicine. All presentations are free and open to children 6 and older and their parents, but pre-registration is requested. Topics range from rescuing wild animals to proper pet care and feeding. Click here for more information.
Pet meet-and-greet
Looking to expand your family with a loyal four-legged friend? Head to the Millerville Road PetsMart location this weekend! Representatives from both Yelp!BR and Project Purr will be on-site with dozens of adoptable animals who are in need of good homes. All animals have been given top-notch veterinary care, including vaccines, microchipping, deworming and disease screening. Dog lovers can find Yelp!BR volunteers and dogs on-site 11:30 a.m. until 4 p.m. both Saturday and Sunday. Friends of felines can meet Project Purr volunteers and cats from noon to 4 p.m. on Saturday, and 1 to 4 p.m. on Sunday.