Our four-legged friends do not know what a financial crisis is, but they feel the effects of the current economy nonetheless. Shelters and foster home groups report staggering numbers entering their already maxed-out programs, with some facilities experiencing as much as a 44% increase. The Denton Humane Society reports an unprecedented amount of calls from individuals in need of food, financial and medical assistance, and help in re-homing pets, while also coping with a major decrease in donations.

The individual stories are heartbreaking, from animals left behind when their families were evicted, to those with jobless owners who struggle to feed them. The problems feel overwhelming, especially when we all feel the financial strain. However, there are simple things you can do to make a difference.

Get creative. Clean out closets and host a garage sale to benefit animals. Donate a month’s worth of spare change. Save money from lattes and brown bag it for lunch a few days a week, giving the money to the needy animals instead. Request that friends and family members make a donation to animal charities in lieu of birthday gifts. Set up an animal donation bank in your company’s break room, or organize a bake sale at work, school, or church.

Start a food drive. Establish a pet food collection box at work, school, or church, or ask your favorite merchant to set one up at their place of business. Recruit your child’s class, church youth group, or local Boy and Girl Scouts to collect food as well. Pick up an extra bag of dog or cat food each time you grocery shop, and drop it off for animals in need.

Every contribution counts. A donation of time is an invaluable gift for animals, and animal groups are always in dire need of volunteers and foster homes. New or gently used blankets, towels, animal crates, and other pet supplies are also greatly appreciated.

Remember rescue. Adopt a rescued animal the next time you add a pet to the family, and make sure all your companion animals are spayed and neutered. For more information on how you can help the animals during this economic crunch, contact the Denton Humane Society, at 940-382-PETS, visit dentonhumanesociety.org, or the animal charity of your choice.

by Laurie Griffin

Compared to many places in the United States, Texans are lucky when it comes to winter weather. Conditions here remain fairly comfortable, and our winter season is a very short one indeed. However, even though winters in Denton County are relatively mild, pets in our area still need protection.

Dogs and cats are almost always safer and happier indoors, especially when temperatures plunge. If at all possible, don’t leave animals outdoors in winter weather, especially those who are young or old, shorthaired, or have health problems. Regardless of outside temperatures, wind chill can be lethal for animals. All outdoor pets must have a structure with four walls, a solid ceiling, and a floor that is several inches off the ground. This space needs to be large enough for your animal to completely turn around and fully lie down, but also small enough to contain body heat. Be sure the opening is fully covered with a heavy plastic flap. Place plenty of cedar chips or straw on the floor, and change regularly, and turn the entrance toward a house or shed, and place out of the wind.

According to the Humane Society of the United States, pets who spend time outdoors are more quickly drained of energy and require extra food and water. Check with your veterinarian about the diet of outdoor pets, who may need more caloric intake to produce adequate body heat, and may need as much water in winter as summer, if not more. Water bowls should be consistently checked and not frozen, and place all food and water in plastic bowls because metal bowls can freeze and stick to your pet’s tongue. Invest in a warming device for pet bowls to keep from freezing over, available at hardware stores and pet supply sources, costing as little as $15.

Antifreeze-coolant is a deadly toxic green liquid that has a sweet taste and is very appealing to dogs, cats, and children. Keep all chemicals secured, and driveways and garage floors clean. The HSUS recommends antifreeze-coolant made with propylene glycol, stating that “if swallowed in small amounts, it will not hurt pets, wildlife, or your family.” Salts used on the roads when conditions are icy can cause irritation and burns to your pet’s feet, mouth and tongue. Keep pets away from road ice, and wipe feet clean after walks. A coat that is poorly maintained is also less able to keep animals insulated properly. Consider a sweater for short-haired dogs to wear when exercising.

In cold weather, make sure the engine of your car is critter-free by banging on the hood, forcing animals to flee. Never leave your pet inside a vehicle in the winter, while you are running errands, since interior temperatures can quickly drop and animals can become ill or freeze. Place crates/bedding away from drafts inside the home. Heating ducts and your HVAC system can cause indoor conditions that can be irritating to your pet’s skin and nasal passages. Watch for signs of sensitivity, such as redness, flaking, rashes, or excessive scratching, as well as sneezing and runny nose. Never leave your pet unattended with an electric or propane heater or fireplace.

Companion animals consider their caretakers to be family, and rely on them exclusively to meet their needs. Use caution and care in winter months, and whenever possible, invite them inside! They are social beings and do best when they can be part of the family unit, especially when outside weather is less than ideal.

by Laurie Griffin

Thanks to Denton resident, Julie Hudson and to the City of Denton Animal Shelter, an 8-week old Aussie mix puppy received a second chance. The puppy, now named Woody, was picked up on February 10, 2008 as a stray. He was seriously injured with wounds on his eye, shoulder and lip. At the request of Debbie Lhotka, Denton Animal Services, the puppy was examined by local veterinarian, Dr. Granville Wright who determined that the major injury was due to the puppy being shot by a bow and arrow.

Dr. Wright and Ms. Lhotka covered the initial medical expenses as they felt that the puppy should be given a chance for adoption. They knew that the puppy would require an additional surgery. On Valentine’s Day, February 14, Julie Hudson adopted the puppy from the Denton Animal Shelter. She named him Woody. “I am very grateful to Julie for seeing past Woody’s injuries and future surgery needs. Julie and her husband Gary opened their hearts and home to a ‘special needs’ dog and paid for all the additional medical care” stated Debbie Lhotka.

In September, Debbie learned of a national contest sponsored by Science Diet pet food and investigated the details. She then e-mailed several former Denton Animal Shelter adopters requesting that they consider entering. The contest was called “A Second Chance at Love” and required a letter describing the “story” of the rescued dog or cat. Julie accepted the challenge and wrote a moving story about Woody.

The adoption stories from all the contestants were posted on the Science Diet website and were judged by a panel for various prizes. The top prizes would go to one dog and one cat. On November 14, Woody was selected as one of the top 50 finalists. On November 21, Julie was informed that Woody was a top 10 finalist (5 dogs and 5 cats). On December 6, Debbie received word from Julie that Woody was the dog grand prize winner nationwide. The grand prize includes awards to both the local shelter and to the adopter. The Denton Animal Shelter receives a $10,000 donation from Hills Science Diet. Julie, Gary and Woody receive a photo shoot in New York, including roundtrip airfare, two night’s accommodations, transportation, $300 expenses, all with an equivalent retail value of $5,000.

The story of Woody was a catalyst for the formation of an “Emergency Medical Fund” at the Denton shelter. In coordination with Debbie’s initiatives, the Denton Animal Shelter Foundation donated $2,200 in September 2008 to establish the fund. Additional donations from local businesses, vets and individuals have been received. “It is so great that we have a medical fund now because we have so many come into the shelter in need of emergency help” said Amy Pelzel, a shelter volunteer. More shelter rescues can receive a second chance at love.

To donate to the Emergency Medical Fund:
City of Denton Animal Shelter
300 Woodrow Lane, Denton 76205