PLACES & TIPSPets and hot cars: What you need to know
by Mark O.
 
You and your furry friend have been cooped up all winter. Now that summer’s here, it’s time to enjoy the warm sunny weather! 
You might be tempted to bring your dog with you on errands to get them out of the house, but that may not be the best thing for their health. Think twice about taking your pet with on car rides if you have to leave them in the car for any reason. In a matter of minutes, the heat inside the car can reach hazardous levels. 
Here is some additional information on keeping your pet safe during the summer’s rising heat.

Link to article

Thinking about adopting a furry companion?  That’s great!  Pet rescues and shelters are filled with animals waiting to be adopted and re-homed. Giving a new forever after home to a rescued pet is a big decision.  You want to give him a loving home and the best care possible. Pet adoption is lots of fun, but it does take time to plan and research.

You may ask yourself: How does it work? How do you choose the right pet? Where can I find a rescue or shelter near me? How does the adoption process work? We know you’ve got many questions on pet adoption, and we’ve put the answers together for you!  We have created “The Ultimate Guide To Pet Adoption”.  This guide is divided into captivating articles that will teach you everything you need to know about pet adoption.  Also, keep a lookout for great tips to simplify your pet adoption process.

In order to write this guide, more than 200 rescue groups and shelters across America were asked to give you their best advice and tips on pet adoption. We take the opportunity to thank all the rescues and shelters that have collaborated with this guide and helped us transmit an important message to all those who wish to adopt an animal. This would not have been possible without your valuable support. Check out what topics and questions these articles will address:

• “ THE BENEFITS OF ADOPTING A PET ”
  Know the many benefits of adopting a pet and seize this wonderful opportunity to make a difference in your life and in the life of your new pet.  
  
  
• “ ANIMAL RESCUE AND ANIMAL SHELTER: WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE? ”
  It’s important to understand the difference between shelters and rescues.  This will save you time in finding the pet you want and in choosing which organization you would like to support in your community.  They do have similar functions but there are also major differences between the two.
  
  
• “ PET ADOPTION MYTHS ”
  There are many misconceptions about adopting a pet from a rescue or shelter. Learn the truth behind each myth.  
  
  
• “ WHAT SHOULD YOU CONSIDER BEFORE ADOPTING? ”
  Pet ownership can be lots of fun. But, you want to think through a couple of things before you make your final decision and adopt.  
  
  
• “ FIND YOUR PERFECT MATCH? ”
  Choosing the right pet for your family is essential for both your family’s and the animal’s happiness and wellbeing. You will learn how to make an educated decision and choose the right pet for you.
  
  
• “ MEET AND GREET ”
  Talking to a pet counselor at the animal rescue or shelter will really help you make the right choice.Know what questions to ask them!  
  
  
• “ THE ADOPTION PROCESS ”
  Once you are ready to adopt, learn what you have to do to get approved for the adoption. 
  
  
• “ PREPARING YOUR HOME ”
  Transform your house into a cozy home before you welcome your new four-legged friend.  
  
  
• “ PET SUPPLIES ”
  We’ve created a complete checklist of all the necessary (and fun) things you should think about getting before your new pet arrives.  
  
  
• “ PET CARE ”
  We will give you many tips and tricks on how to care for your pet.  
  
  
• “ BRINGING HOME YOUR NEW PET ”
  Bringing home your new companion is a big deal. Learn what to expect in the first couple weeks.
  
  
• “ HOW TO BE A RESPONSIBLE PET OWNER ”
  Learn how to become a responsible pet parent. We will give you tips and advice on how to be the best pet parent you can be.  
  
  
• “ HOW YOU CAN HELP YOUR LOCAL RESCUE OR SHELTER? ”
  
  Learn how to give a helping hand to your local rescue group or animal shelter. There are many great reasons why these organizations need your help.  

Pet adoption is such a wonderful thing. Whether you’d like to adopt a dog, a cat, a rabbit, a ferret or any other animal, you want to make sure you consider all that it takes to become a very good and caring pet owner.Find out all about pet adoption in this book and you will be able to start enjoying a brand new lifelong friendship with your new pet.
Disclaimer: This guide is intended to provide you with the information you need to make better decisions about pet adoption. The views and opinions in this guide have tried to regroup the general procedure of pet adoption, but remember that all animals, rescues and shelters are unique. Therefore, pet adoption will be different for each animal, rescue and shelter. However, we have made every effort to be truthful, fair and accurate when we wrote this guide . HomeoAnimal has used all reasonable care in compiling the information from the interviewed rescues and shelters but make no warranty as to its accuracy. We recommend contacting your local rescue or shelter to help assist you in making your final decision.

Article can be found at https://www.homeoanimal.com/blogs/blog-pet-health/81086084-the-ultimate-guide-to-pet-adoption-sneak-preview

By BRIAN WIERIMA
Gulf Coast Humane Society Community Relations Coordinator
 
When a hurricane is blowing in, Florida residents know firsthand how to be prepared and ready for almost anything the wind and rain brings in.
That family preparedness needs to also include your pets.
As the saying goes, prepare for the worst and make sure your pets are included in those plans.

Leaving your pets behind to fend for themselves should not be in that plan. Instead, plan ahead and map out safe havens which accept pets. Research local shelter policies and contact your veterinarian for emergency facilities which do accept pets.
Don’t wait for a mandatory evacuation order. Some people who have waited were told to leave their pet behind.

If evacuation is required by authorities, plans of lodging outside the area need to be made. Research the surrounding areas for hotels, shelters or any other lodging - which can include friends and relative -  in which an extended stay can happen with your pets.
Now that plans are made for lodging and shelter which accepts pets, have your emergency caretaker’s number handy, in case you are not home.

This trustworthy individual will have access to your home and knows the plan of taking care of your animals.

Always have an emergency kit made up for hurricanes, which can result in long periods of time without water or power. Your pets also need their own emergency kits, as well.
Extra water specifically for your animals is the No. 1 and most important item in your pets’ emergency kit. A week’s worth of water for you, your family and pets is highly recommended.

Wet food is also important, because canned items last longer and the moisture in the food will help extend your pets’ water rations. Don’t forget to have a can opener handy, as well.

Have an extra supply of your pets’ medications in advance by talking to your vet and securing extra prescriptions in case of an extended evacuation. Extra cat litter and doggy bags will be needed to stay sanitary and lessen the chances of spreading diseases.

When arriving at a potential shelter, boarding your pet maybe required. Having papers, proof of recent vaccinations, photos of your pet and proof of ownership, in a water-sealed container will eliminate much hassle in boarding a pet at a shelter. Also have ID tags and vaccination tags on your pets’ collar.

For more convenient mobility, always have a supply of leashes and pet carriers handy. These will be a big help in your pets’ safety or prevent them from running into harmful conditions.

Finally, always have your pets’ favorite toys and items which will help calm them down. Anything to take the stress off your pets during a frightening time, can take stress off you.

Thinking ahead of the storm season is also a way to take pressure off when the wind starts whipping.

Having your pet microchipped is important, simply because your chances of being reunited with a lost pet goes up twofold if they can be scanned and identified. Adding stickers to your windows allows rescuers know there are animals which live there.
Have your pets vaccinated well in advance, because in the aftermath of a hurricane, diseases are more prevalent due to the flooding which causes sanitary problems.
Not all pets are dogs or cats.

For birds, they should have a secure cage.

A blanket over the cage may help reduce the stress of traveling. Also a spray bottle to moisten your bird’s feathers in warm weather will be needed.

Be sure to have plenty of liners for the cage and a perch for the bird to grasp. Reptiles need secure housing. Snakes need a sturdy bowl that is large enough to soak in and it may be good to bring along a heating pad or other warming device.

Lizards can be transported like birds. Other small animals such as hamsters and mice can be transported in a secure carrier with bedding materials, food and food bowls. Remember to have an extra water bottle and a week’s worth of bedding.
​
For more information and a detailed list of disaster preparedness go to aspca.org.
Having a plan in place and executing that plan, will only make a very unstable situation go more smoothly. Your family and pets will be the better for it.
 
 
 
 
 

By JESSICA BRODY

If you’re facing an impending move, it can be very stressful to consider what to do about your pets. Many rental options either prohibit pets or charge pet rent, making your cost of living rise. Some neighborhoods may have rules against the number and type of pets you are allowed to have.

If you’re moving to another country, there’s a whole new mess of rules and regulations to research. Moving with pets is never easy, but if you’re not sure where to begin, here is a little information on moving and how your pets will fit into the picture.

Apartment and Other Rental Homes Can Be Tricky

It will certainly take you a little extra effort to locate a landlord or property management company that will permit pets, particularly larger dogs. Many of these facilities will place a limit on the species, quantity, and size of acceptable pets. A small dog is typically the best bet for the prospective apartment hunter. If you have an elderly dog that requires special accommodations, the hunt can be exhausting.

Though it can get frustrating, rest assured that you will be able to find a pet-friendly option. It just takes a little extra effort.

It is also important to note that you should never take advantage of the Emotional Support Animal system. An ESA has the legal right to live with their owner in any property. However, this rule exclusively applies to someone with a true disability who owns a pet that knows how to manage some of their symptoms. If you do not have a disability, do not attempt to claim your pet as an ESA. By doing so, you damage the believability of people who truly need these animals.

Can’t Take Your Pet?

Rehoming a beloved animal can be very painful for a doting owner. However, some animals are simply not able to withstand the move or will not be accepted at the new residence.

At this point, the best you can do is find your pet a new loving owner.
If you are rehoming a pet, it is important that you never offer the pet up for free. Animal abusers posing as prospective owners will not bother spending money on an animal they want to harm. Even a small rehoming fee can protect your pet.

Be transparent about any problems your pet has. If the new owner finds out that your dog is aggressive around children the hard way, they will end up at the shelter. Make sure your pet’s new family knows what they are getting into. The best possible option is giving your pet to a trusted friend or loved one. This transition will be easier on both you and your pet.

Moving a Pet Internationally

Countries and airlines have distinct animal policies. It is absolutely critical that you do your research before attempting to move a pet across a border. If your pet is missing a vaccine or piece of paperwork, they can be quarantined in a kennel, away from you, for months at a time.

To move a pet to another country with you, you will need to plan very far in advance, update your pet’s vaccines, and get any necessary medical testing. Read through the experiences of people who have made a move to your country before as well as looking up the official rules. You can never be too careful in preparing for a safe move across borders for your family, including your four-legged family members.

Preparing for the Actual Move

It is important to take your dog to the vet prior to the move to be sure that any health issues are addressed ahead of time. If you are moving to a new town, research the vets offices nearby your new home. If there is an emergency, you don’t want to be scrambling to find a veterinarian.

Be sure that your dog is secured during the time that you are moving your belongings into your new home. The move is potentially going to be scary, and all of the new sites and smells can make your dog over-excited. Consider hiring someone that provides dog boarding during the move so you will know they are secured until you are ready to introduce them to their new home.

Moving a pet to any new place can be difficult and stressful. The best thing you can do is research, plan, and prepare. Get advice from those who have done it before you and know when it is time to rehome your four-legged family member. Remember what is in your pet’s best interest and not just in yours.

By Diana Leadley
​Pushing the Envelope
  
The great question is “why not?” Adding a new member to your family is a big step, and we want to help you make the right decision when adopting. Here are our top 5 reasons to adopt a shelter pet!
 
1. Help Save a Life: All animals at our shelter have been given up by a previous owner, rescued, lost or abandoned. When you adopt, you’re given a helpless animal another chance at a safe, loving home.
 
2. Support a Local Nonprofit: Located here in Southwest Florida, we are dedicated to helping companion pets find their forever homes, no matter how long it takes. As a nonprofit organization and no-kill shelter, we are committed to caring for animals at our shelter with a veterinary clinic (including spay and neuter services). We also provide education to our surrounding community about the welfare of homeless animals.
 
3. Control Overpopulation: For the number of animals born each year, there are simply not enough homes for all of them. You are an important player in helping break this cycle. According to the ASPCA, “each year, approximately 2.7 million animals are euthanized (1.2 million dogs and 1.4 million cats.” That means that “of the cats entering shelters, approximately 37% are adopted, 41% are euthanized, and less than 5% of cats who came in as strays are returned to their owners.”
 
4. Save Money: It’s true! Adoption fees are a lot less than the cost of purebred puppies or kittens, which are simply sold for profit. Plus, the money you spend at a shelter goes toward supporting a great cause.
 
5. Choose from a Selection of Wonderful Animals: Many are reluctant to “shop” for their pet, rather than adopt simply because they want to be sure that they are bringing in an a quality pet. But rest assured that we have a large variety of animals to choose from, including specific breeds as well as friendly and affectionate mutts. According to the American Humane Association, “the most common reasons why people give away their dogs is because their place of residence does not allow pets,” and “the most common reasons for cats are that they are not allowed in the residence and allergies.” The residence animal policy especially holds true for many neighborhoods and communities right here in Southwest Florida.
  
We hope you’ll give our animals a visit when adding a member to your family. Please remember: Adopt, Don’t Shop!

By JESSICA BRODY

​Man’s Best Friend: it sounds like a match made in Heaven. But for those who have never owned a pet before, the idea of taking care of a new puppy or kitten (or bunny or turtle…) can seem overwhelming at first. Although your new fur baby didn’t come with a training manual, humans have kept domesticated animals as pets since at least 7,000 B.C. With a few time-tested tips and tricks, you’ll be on your way to being an incredible pet owner in no time.
 
Do Your Research
Being a great pet parent starts before you ever bring your pet home. In fact, you should start researching pet ownership long before you even decide what type of pet you want. Different species (and breeds) each have their own unique personalities, needs, and health conditions. Doing your homework beforehand will help guarantee you choose the right type of pet for yourself and/or your family.
 
Choose an AAHA accredited vet
If you don’t know a good veterinarian in your area, start by asking your friends for recommendations. Once you’ve compiled a list of names, see if any of them are accredited through the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA). Although not all vets are members, this membership does typically ensure a higher quality of care for your beloved pet.
 
Save Up
Preferably, you’ll start saving for a pet long before you ever adopt one. Let’s be honest: pets cost a lot of money. A lot of money. Even if a pet is given to you for “free,” you will discover later down the road that you’ll end up paying for food, water, bedding, toys, veterinary bills, and any unexpected expenses that pop up. Trust me, unexpected expenses will pop up. It’s best to start saving money now...
 
Dog Training
Consistent dog training should start the moment you bring your new companion home. Although the saying “you can’t teach an old dog new tricks” isn’t accurate, the sooner you begin training your dog, the quicker the dog will learn proper “manners” and desired behavior expectations.
 
Cat Training
Contrary to popular belief, cats do require some training, too - although much less than dogs. You’ll still want to teach your cat where the food and water dishes are and how to use the litter box. Some ambitious cat owners take it a step further and teach their cats to use the toilet or play fetch. There’s really no limitation on the tricks you can teach your new companion if you just have fun with it!
 
Get Advice From the Pros
Remember, you’re not alone in this adventure. Many, many others have paved the way to pet ownership for millennia. Some of that advice can be learned from friends and family members, and some of it can be learned from professional trainers. If you can’t afford to hire a professional, there are countless books, websites and even YouTube videos that can help you learn more.
 
You don’t have to be a “perfect” pet owner to be a “purrfect” pet owner. If your heart is in the right place and you’re making sincere efforts, you’re already halfway there. Just follow the steps above and keep taking care of your new friend in the best possible way you know how. You’re doing grrrreat!
 
 

By Shannon Carroll, Pushing the Envelope, Inc.
 
Pets of all ages are part of the family; they have their own personality and are there for you. While quite often people today readily adopt kittens and puppies, there are a great number of advantages to consider regarding adopting a senior pet instead.
 
Some may feel biased to adopt a kitten or puppy because the animal may have a “blank slate” and he or she may want to be the pet’s first owner, but there are some factors that should come into consideration when adopting a younger pet. For example, younger animals come with their own personality that can be difficult to spot early in their development.  Or, the kitten or puppy may take how you treat them for granted, because he or she does not know any other type of life he or she could lead. A senior pet has more life experience and his or her personality will be much easier to recognize when you go to adopt your animal to become a loving member of the family.
 
According to petsforpatriots.org, “Older animals have their routines and while they still love to play, they love to relax, cuddle and nap as well,” which is a highly suitable situation for all owners. Whether you have a young boy who wants to wrestle and play with your dog, you live on your own and want some company, or you work full time, a senior pet will have a balance of play, rest, love and affection. He or she will be more accommodating to children because his or her mind will not constantly be focused on running and playing With a senior pet, you are in charge! If you want to play, if you want to cuddle, you know your pet will be there for you.
 
Petsforpatriots.org also states that some benefits of adopting senior pets are that they are “old enough to know better, young enough to learn,” “great for any age,” and “they know they have been given a second chance at life.”  And what a great feeling it is to have helped another, especially an animal less capable of making a life. It is quite a powerful thing to help others – and often results in a betterment in at least one form or another for yourself – you will be happier and enjoy life more, and people or opportunities may reach out to you that you want to come to fruition.
 
Imagine what it would be like to not have­­­ a home, or wait anxiously for someone to take you into their family. When you adopt a senior pet, they know they are wanted – you saved them. These senior pets have gained wisdom and deserve a great family, just like you do. A senior pet is likely to have a deep amount of love for you, and your deed will make them eternally grateful.
 
You deserve all of the priceless advantages of adopting a senior pet. A loving and admiring animal that wants nothing more than to serve you with loyalty and companionship is waiting for you. Their way of repaying you is to help protect your family, love, and play – whatever you need, whenever the time!

By Alan Marshall, GCHS volunteer
​
​Our second highlighted employee is Melisa Clem, who recently celebrated her twentieth anniversary with Gulf Coast Humane Society.  Melisa, a veterinary technician at the GCHS Veterinary Clinic, began her career as a volunteer kennel tech in August, 1996 through a Florida state program for single mothers.  I asked about her first job and saw a slight grin appear.  “This is it,” she said, obviously content she is still at it two decades later.  During her early years, she recalled, the shelter had only a couple part-time veterinarians who would come in two times a week and would frequently take patients back to their private practices for more serious illnesses or injuries.  The new clinic, just over a year in its location at 2685 Swamp Cabbage Court in Fort Myers, now has two doctors scheduled every day, working side by side with four full-time and two part-time vet techs, along with several front desk employees and volunteers.

Melisa, soft spoken and extremely modest, was born in Oklahoma to a military family. However, her parents divorced when she was quite young and her mother brought her to Southwest Florida, where her family still called home.  Most memories of her youth are centered right here in the Fort Myers area.  Her family includes husband Rob, son Bubba, twenty-three, and daughter Sara, sixteen,  as well as Snickers, a Basset Hound and Suzie, a Beagle.

To see what Melisa's day is like, I tagged along with her as she went about her daily activities.  Although Gloria Letendre, the clinic manager, told me I was there on a slow day, there was very little down time and most of my questions had to wait until Melisa finally took a lunch break around 1 P.M.      A vet tech's duties at the clinic mirror those of a nurse in human health care, in Melisa's mind.  And after witnessing just a brief moment in time at the clinic, I totally agree.  When I arrived, she was assisting another vet tech with a dental cleaning on a dog that definitely needed it.  Then, it was into an exam room for a wellness check for a bouncing, happy terrier puppy recently adopted from GCHS.  Melisa, while checking the pup's vitals, gave the young owner helpful tips on living with a growing dog.  Next was an annual exam for an adult dog with a couple minor medical issues, followed by a very young kitten with crooked front legs and a runny nose (And, I must note, whose adopted mama obviously saw nothing but perfection in her imperfect tiny bundle of fur.).  With each animal and their human parents, I noticed Melisa was very methodical in her approach, intently listening to concerns, taking detailed notes, and making observations of the patients.  Her compassion for each and every animal was palpable; a snuggle here, a scratch on the noggin there, small tells that confirmed she is doing exactly what she was meant to do.

Finally, we ended up in the operating room, I a fly on the wall, Melisa assisting Dr. Mark Huff with removing a growth from the foot of a golden retriever.  Much more involved than a layman such as I would imagine, the surgery went on for a considerable time.  As they anesthetized the patient, calm came over the room.  No tension, just a pleasant atmosphere as they talked in hushed tones, casual conversation, a joke here and there, intermingled with specific requests from the doctor and swift responses from Melisa as they worked through the procedure.  There were no surprises during the surgery, or if there were, they weren't apparent.  When done, both Melisa and Dr. Huff seemed pleased with the outcome.  Together, they carefully placed the fifty-plus pound retriever in a recovery pen, Melisa thoughtfully covering her with a blanket and making sure she was as comfortable as possible.  While most patients come in for less intrusive things, such as annual checkups and inoculations or various ailments, Melisa said they average three or four surgeries a week. 

Although her days are always filled with animals, no two days are alike and she never knows what's next.  What does she enjoy most about her job?  Educating people on the proper ways of caring for their adoptees and seeing returning patients, especially those GCHS alumni, who come back year after year.  That grin appeared, again, at the thought of all the furry friends she's made over the years.

All day long, I was impressed with the air of cooperation between Melisa, Gloria, and the four other vet techs working that day.  If a task required an extra hand or two, anyone with a spare moment would glide in to assist before disappearing around the corner en route to their next chore.  Gloria described Melisa as passionate and committed to the job, her work calculated and thorough.  She knows she can always count on Melisa to come in on a day off if another tech is out due to an illness or other emergency. 

When not working, Melisa's interests include her collections of teddy bears and music boxes, although, she said, the collecting part may have gotten out of hand at times.  She also enjoys fishing, often with family in Cape Coral and Punta Gorda.  For her it’s more for the experience, the peaceful atmosphere, relaxing on the water's edge, than catching “the big one.”  In fact, she says, unless her husband is willing to clean what she reels in, it's strictly catch and release for her.  

So, after twenty years, I think Melisa is on her way to figuring out what to do with her life.  Maybe after another ten or twenty years, she'll finally commit herself to some noble endeavor.  I jest, of course, as it is so obvious she had this figured out many, many years ago.  Congratulations, Melisa, on your significant milestone, and thank you on behalf of all the four legged creatures you have helped over all these years.      

by Alan Marshall, GCHS volunteer

​Our first featured employee is James.  Just don't call him that, because only his mother is allowed to use his real first name.  He has worked at Gulf Coast Humane Society for twelve and a half years and if you have spent any time at all here at the shelter, you surely know him as “Luckey,” which is actually his last name. 
 
Luckey has always felt a strong kinship with the animals who come through GCHS because he himself is adopted.  A native Floridian, he was born in Polk County to a mother he doesn't remember.  Unable, or unwilling, to care for her two offspring, she gave up two month-old Luckey and his seven year-old sister, “Chillie,” to the State.  They were soon separated and spent time in different foster homes before they were reunited by Dianne Luckey, who had found them in a catalog of children available for adoption.   She brought them home to Fort Myers, where they both remain.  As he spoke of Dianne, the only mother he's ever known, I could sense the appreciation and affection he has for her.  He said he was very lucky to have been adopted by a “very nice lady.”
 
When I asked him what brought him to GCHS, there was both sorrow and glee in his response.  When he was fifteen, he said, he had a dog named “Nails.”  But after Luckey received a referral notice from school for being late to class, Dianne brought Nails to GCHS and surrendered him as punishment.  To this day, there is still great sense of loss in his voice as he recalls the incident.  But soon after, Dianne  and Luckey visited Nails at the shelter.  And one visit was all it took, as he was instantly infatuated with the place.  Witnessing the controlled chaos - the barking, the excited faces and the wagging tails, his overloaded senses convinced him right then and there this was where he belonged.  Unfortunately, he was too young to work here.  So, at 16, he got his first job at the Broadway Palm Theater where he was a “runner,” keeping the buffet trays filled for patrons.  But the furry creatures at the shelter were never far from thought, and his very next employer was GCHS.  Although he never again saw Nails, Luckey never forgot him.  He likes to think his one-time canine companion found a terrific forever home and lived a long, wonderful life.    
 
While Luckey enjoys all the animals at GCHS, he absolutely loves dogs.  In fact, he says, he likes dogs more than most people.  But fellow workers and volunteers are the exception, as he truly enjoys interacting with all who help care for the shelter's temporary guests.  A big part of the satisfaction he gains from his work as a kennel tech is knowing that almost every one of them will find a loving home some day.  “We're here,” he emphasizes, “to get them adopted.”  Thinking back on his years here, he proudly recalled the time he was presented with an award in 2007, naming him the “Most Dedicated Employee of GCHS.”      
 
When he's not working, Luckey enjoys long rides on his bicycle and fishing in the fresh-waterways of Fort Myers and Cape Coral.  His favorite fishing holes are near Cape Coral High School where he casts for his preferred quarry, large and small mouth bass.
 
I asked him what he would like others to know about Luckey.  “I try to do my best, my word is my bond.  I'm just an average Joe.”  Average Joe, maybe, but not an average employee.  I see him as the quintessential “Mr. GCHS,” with a huge toothy smile and an animated wave or thumbs up as a greeting for all who come to support shelter's the mission.  No matter what his duties of the day are, cleaning kennels, doing laundry, caring for new-comers in intake, or carting a bin full of lively puppies between buildings, he lives up to enviable standards of hard work and dedication, to both GCHS and the abandoned pets who reside here, with which he shares that deep-seated natural bond.   Whether they are here a week or a year or more, they are lucky to have Luckey in their lives.  

By Amber Kingsley
​Animals use their feet for walking, but their paws are also part of their defense mechanism. The pads of their feet offer additional cushion to protect their bones and joints from shock, much in the same way we wear athletic shoes when running. They also provide insulation and protection from the elements including extreme heat and cold.
 
While cats will usually keep their paws clean and their claws extra sharp on their own, humans should still check them from time to time. When it comes to canines, ensuring a dog’s nails and pads are healthy can be challenging.
 
Here are some tips on keeping all of their paws, claws, feet and toes in tip-top shape:
  
Paddy & Pedi
 
Again, felines can usually keep their claws trim and clean by sharpening and cleaning them on scratching posts but their masters should still keep a close eye on them for splitting, cracking, becoming ingrown and other painful problems. Canines are also prone to these types of painful issues and their nails should be trimmed or filed regularly. Whether you’re taking them to a professional groomer or doing it yourself, this important task should still be performed whenever you can hear their nails “clicking” on a wooden or tile surface.
  
Hairy & Scary
 
Many dog and cat breeds, especially those who have excessive hair, they may need to have this build-up of fur trimmed down around their paws. This growth of excess fur near their pads and claws can cause problems if not kept to a minimum. Besides possible matting, too much hair can cause them to slip or slide on smooth surfaces and could lead to injury if not maintained. Check with a professional groomer or veterinarian for their advice and expertise on this topic if you’re unsure.
 
Hot & Cold
 
Changes in temperature can also wreak havoc on a pet’s paws. With the heat of the summer sun, there’s an risk of burns coming from extra hot surfaces and an increase threat of dryness from this warmer weather. Consider oils, ointments and even a paw massage to ease these types of seasonal discomforts.
 
In the wintertime, the cold temperatures offer other risks and there’s also a danger from salt and other chemicals applied to snowy and icy surfaces that our pets can pick up on their paws. Be sure to wash off their feet after exposure to outside elements, including mud and dirt that can build up and cause infection.
  
Symptoms & Consequences
 
If a pet is experiencing problems with their paws, you’ll likely see evidence of limping or favoring one limb over another. Other signs of danger include:
 
●Excessive licking or cleaning of limbs or appendages
●Behavior changes like different eating or sleeping habits
●Blood, pus and/or a foul odor emanating from their feet
●Aggression if you attempt to touch or examine their lower limbs
 
If your pet is showing any of these symptoms or conditions you should take them to see your veterinarian immediately. If left untreated, they may begin to favor their other feet and legs that can cause muscle atrophy in the affected limb. They could also develop behavioral problems, become distant, aggressive or lethargic as a result of these problems.
 
With a little extra care and caution, we can keep our animals safe from foot follies that could ultimately lead to serious problems. Keep an eye on their feet year round to protect them from possible problems that can be easily be nipped in the bud. 
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Amber Kingsley is a former art history student turned freelance writer who lives in Santa Monica, CA. This travel junkie has a goal to visit every country in the world. She has backpacked through Europe and South America with an eye on conquering Asia next. This peppy, perky writer love Pets, art, and music.