Gulf Coast Humane Society
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Pet Talk

Donations Saves Lives

3/27/2020

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It’s an extremely sad statistic, but more than one million wonderful dogs and cats are euthanized in the United States every year. The reason for this is because shelters simply can’t handle the number of pets that come through their doors, compared with the number of humans who come to the rescue. This is another reason why spaying or neutering [1] is so important, and that you get a pet for life, not just for Christmas.
 
At Gulf Coast Humane Society we’re proud to be a no kill shelter, but for that reason, it’s even more important that we find our rescue animals' fur-ever homes. Though adoption is the primary aim, there are other things that we - and other rescue shelters greatly appreciate. And usually they are everyday items that you could find lying around the house.
 
If you would like to donate to an animal shelter but you’re struggling with ideas, here is a list of things you can consider giving away. Some you can easily get at a reasonable price, and some that you may already have at home.
 

Food Bowls and Litter Pans 
These items can be just as important as food, (which we greatly appreciate) as the shelters can get overcrowded very quickly. The feeding area must be clean and accessible, with enough food and water containers for everyone. Litter pans are also needed to keep the cleanliness. If you’re not in the position to buy pet food bowls, any metal sturdy container will do the job, such as old pots, saucepans, etc. Smaller plastic laundry tubs, for example, can serve as a great litter pan, or maybe as a useful container for storing food.
 

Collars, Leashes, Harnesses 
With a bunch of untrained confused dogs, it’s difficult organizing them for a simple walk, let alone if things like collars and leashes are scarce. These are inexpensive items that you can find in any pet store that can make a big change for the staff in the shelter. Although a bit more expensive, metal chain collars are more durable and sturdy, more hygienic, and great for large dog breeds. Definitely something that could be reusable and last for a long time.
 
Our favorite is the No-Pull Freedom Harness.
 

Toys 
In order to get much-needed mental stimulation and to have some fun, animals need toys or objects they can play with (or chew) to keep them busy and engaged. Dogs love ropes, squeaky toys or anything chewy they can play with and munch on. Cats enjoy anything scratchy or just simple balls and yarn to toss around.
 

Cleaning supplies and products 
Many animals come in poor condition to rescue centers, carrying potential diseases. This is why proper hygiene is so important, but it costs money. You can help out by donating paper towels, soap, cloths, garbage bags, rubber gloves, laundry detergent and any useful cleaning products. Chlorine bleach is very effective in killing basically 99 percent of all the germs, viruses and bacteria, and great for cleaning the kennels, cages and feeding bowls.
 
We also appreciate ​Doggy Potty Pads!
 

Office Supplies 
Not all shelter staff work solely with animals, much of their core business is done by searching for donations, finding possible adopters and organizing the rescues. Basic office supplies like sticky notes, pens, paper, staplers, and anything a regular office could need are really useful in a rescue shelter.
 

Towels, Blankets, Linens 
Every household has at least one extra blanket or a towel collecting dust. These are actually very useful for cleaning up and keeping the animals warm and comfortable. Towels, blankets and old pillowcases can serve as great padding for a cage or for covering a bed, and they are washable and reusable - the dream combo for a rescue shelter!
  

Grooming Supplies 
Our furry friends need regular grooming, bathing, and brushing to stay healthy and clean. Some of the animals that are taken in for the first time are dirty, flea and tick infected, with a matted and damaged coat. Supplies like animal shampoo, brushes, combs, nail clippers, grooming scissors, as well as flea and tick medication are all welcome.
 

Our complete wishlist 
  • Earth Rated® Dog Waste Bags ​
  • No-Pull Freedom Harness
  • ​Booster Bath
  • ​Doggy Potty Pads
  • ​Four-Inch Heavy-Duty Carabiners
  • Wet dog food
  • Wet cat food
  • Peanut butter (should not contain xylitol )
  • Dog toys
  • Cat toys
  • Kuranda beds
  • Kuranda cat towers
  • Cat litter
  • Leashes (non-retractable)
  • Hoses and spray nozzles
  • Baskerville "Ultra" Muzzles Size 1-6
  • Petco/PetMeds/Pet Supermarket
  • gift cards
  • Grooming Supplies
  • Nail Clippers
  • Large Buster Food Cubes
  • Large Nyla bones
  • Toys
  • Kong Toys
  • Marrow Bones Large and Small
  • Hard Plastic Climbing Toys
  • Empty half-gallon and gallon water bottles with caps
  • Velcro Strips (heavy duty kind)
  • Pet Corrector
  • Easy Walk Harnesses
  • Baby Scale
  • ​Adopt Me Vest
  • Small or half aprons
  • ​Stuffed Animals
  • ​​Bully Sticks
  • Cleaning Supplies:  Mops, brushes, squeegee'
  •  Clorox wipes
  • Paper towels
  • Bleach
  • Laundry Soap
  • Dawn Dish Soap
  • Towels, sheets, rugs
  • Contractor grade trash bags
  • Hoses and spray nozzles
  • Black trash bags
  • White kitchen bags
  • Plastic Kiddie Pools
  • Sprinklers
  • Office supplies (file folders, labels, post its, etc.)
  • Digital Camera(s)
  • Industrial washer and dryer
  • Red Wagons 
  • Home Depot/Lowes gift cards
  • Industrial Dishwasher (new or gently used)
  • 48" Fluorescent Light Bulbs
  • Laptop Computers
  • Volunteer Handyman
  • Portable Boombox/Radio & CD Players
  • Picnic table
  • Shelving for storage
  • Nylabones
  • Treats for cats and dogs
  • Puzzle toys
  • Stuffed Kongs
  • Antlers
  • Raw Beef Bones​​
 
 
Adopting a pet is one way to help rescue shelters, but it definitely isn’t the only way. Basically anything you would use to properly take care of your pet is what an animal rescue could use as well. Any kind of selfless donation is a generous contribution that can ensure a better and more humane life for these precious animals. If you’d like to donate to our rescue centre, give us a call on (239) 332 0364, or drop in at 2010 Arcadia Street, Fort Myers, FL. 33916. Click here to make a donation.
 
Thank you for your continued support!

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What you need to know about vaccinating your cat

3/12/2020

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Cats make wonderful pets. They are also fun and amusing to watch—as the cat video phenomenon has proved. As they give us so much joy, it’s only fair we ensure they are as healthy as possible.
 
Cat vaccinations are pivotal when it comes to optimal feline health. Even if your cat lives indoors, he or she needs to be vaccinated. Different viruses and other health issues can hurt cats just as easily as they do dogs. Follow this guide to cat vaccinations to avoid preventable health problems in your furry friend.
Mandatory cat vaccinationsSome cat vaccinations are mandatory. Whether you adopt a cat or rescue a kitten, you must invest in the following vaccinations:  
 
  • Rabies: In many states, the law requires you to give your cat a rabies vaccination. Rabies is a highly contagious health problem that can spread to humans. Cats can contract rabies through a bite from a fox, raccoon, skunk or bat, which then attacks their central nervous system. While there are vaccinations, there is no cure for rabies, which is why it’s a mandatory vaccination in most of America. Essentially, it keeps the community as well as your cat safe and healthy. 
 
  • Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis, Calicivirus, and Panleukopenia (FVRCP): The Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis, Calicivirus, and Panleukopenia (or FVRCP) vaccine also go by the easier-to-remember name of distemper. Feline distemper is another serious disease, or in this case, a group of diseases. Each of the viruses mentioned in the name can cause serious health problems in cats. Distemper is one of the top causes of cat deaths; a single-strand DNA virus which can spread through contact with an infected cat's saliva, urine, blood, nasal discharge, or feces. While often rapidly fatal, it is entirely preventable with a quick vaccination.
 
Optional cat vaccinations
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Some cat vaccinations are optional and can be provided on a case-by-case basis. Cats who spend unsupervised time outdoors or those that live in multi-cat households should be provided the following vaccinations:
 
  • Feline Leukemia (Felv.): Feline Leukemia (or FELV) is typically recommended for outdoor cats. This viral infection requires close contact between cats to spread, but it only affects cats. This is a serious disease that kills around 85% of cats within three years of their diagnosis.
  • Feline Immunodeficiency (FIV): Another serious viral infection that targets outdoor cats and those in multi-cat households is Feline Immunodeficiency (or FIV). FIV’s symptoms are similar to those of Felv.; however, the two are caused by different viruses. FIV severely weakens a cat’s immune system. It is mainly spread by deep bites, which is why this vaccination is essential for cats who spend any time outside.
  • Bordetella: If you have dogs you may be familiar with the Bordetella vaccine. Bordetella is a virus that creates upper respiratory symptoms in dogs and cats. This virus is typically spread in boarding and daycare settings and is easily spread through contact (licking, nuzzling) or through the air. If you plan on boarding your cat or taking them to a groomer, you will likely need this vaccination.
 
The Feline Infectious Peritonitis vaccinationThe Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP) vaccination is becoming more popular. FIP is almost always fatal, which is why the development of the vaccine is important.
 
However, the use of this intranasal vaccine is still somewhat controversial. It has also not shown to be 100% effective in preventing all strains of FIP. Discuss this vaccine with your vet if it has not already been provided. They will be able to provide the most recent research and tell you if it is essential for your cat’s health.
 
Timing of cat vaccinationsVaccinations of any species are typically started when the animal is a baby. This is true for humans, dogs, and cats. Most vets will begin vaccinating a cat at around 6-8 weeks. The first round of vaccinations will be completed when the kitten is about 16 weeks.
 
Some vaccinations, like rabies, require regular boosters. Your veterinarian’s office will provide you the proper vaccination schedule for your cat.Cost of cat vaccinationsCat vaccinations are not that expensive. At our veterinary clinic they cost around $15-$30 per shot, and this is typical pricing for vaccinations. If you adopt an adult cat, vaccinations will be very inexpensive. Whether you got your kitty from us at Gulf Coast Humane Society or another rescue shelter, your cat will have been provided the required vaccinations.
 
Final thoughtsCats need our help to live their best lives. Vaccinations are an important way to keep them happy and healthy. The vaccinations discussed in this article all prevent serious diseases and viral infections. Protecting your cat from these health problems should be your first priority.
 
If you have any other questions about cat vaccinations or if you’d like to make an appointment, give our friendly team a call today on 239-332-2719! You can also email us at clinic@gulfcoasthumanesociety.org or pop in to 2685 Swamp Cabbage Court, Fort Myers, FL 33901.
 
View our gorgeous animals currently up for adoption here. 

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How much does owning a small pet actually cost?

3/12/2020

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How Much It Costs to Own a Small Pet

 
All pets cost money. There are a variety of costs associated with owning and caring for animals, even small animals. However, in general, a small pet will cost you much less than their larger counterparts. There are also a large number of small pets to choose from who make excellent furry, fluffy or scaley companions or family pets.
 
If you are on a budget, new to pet ownership and want to start small, or interested in adopting a small pet, the information in this article will help you.
 
Popular small pets and their associated costs 
Selecting a pet is a big decision. Cost is just one of the factors you need to consider. Yet, it is a factor that is often overlooked by potential pet owners. While all of the numbers presented below are estimates, they can give you a good understanding of the costs associated with owning a small pet.
 
Small pets come in a variety of wonderful shapes, sizes, and species. They can also be very costly or fairly inexpensive to own. Two main categories of cost are associated with small pet ownership: one time and lifetime.
 
One time costs are the ones you spend upfront. The cost of purchasing the small pet, vaccinating them, and initial equipment purchase. On the other hand, lifetime costs are ongoing. For the entire life of your small pet, you will need to spend money on food, vet visits, toys, treats, etc. Many small pets can live a long time, so the lifetime costs can add up quickly. Here we’ve broken down the costs for different animals:

Rabbits 

Rabbits as pets are growing in popularity. You can still purchase them relatively cheaply from a pet store, breeder, or adopt them from a rescue. As long as you purchase a common breed rabbit, it will likely only cost $20-$50 from a store. You need to purchase a good rabbit hutch as well, which can be considered a onetime cost.
 
Rabbits live between 8-10 years as pets. Often they will live much longer. The lifetime costs of a rabbit will be less than other long-lived small pets. But, you will still need to purchase food, treats, and pay vet bills.
A pet rabbit will likely cost around $300-$500 per year. 

Dogs 

Obviously, dogs come in a variety of sizes. A dog breed is considered small if it typically weighs less than 22 lbs. or stands shorter than 16 inches. There are currently ninety-four small dog breeds to choose from. We have some beautiful small and big dogs available for adoption - have a scroll through here.
 
Small dogs have some of the longest life spans of any dog breed. On average they will live from 15-20 years, sometimes more. The one-time costs for a small dog will depend on the breed. Some small dogs are very costly to acquire, some are more affordable. Vet costs also tend to depend on the breed. Your food cost will be less than with large dog breeds, but toys and treats will likely cost the same and potentially more when you factor in the dog’s long life.
 
Factoring in one time and lifetime costs, you are looking at around $700-$2000 per year.

Cats 

Cats are considered small pets. They typically cost much less than dogs. In fact, if you adopt a cat, it could cost you $75 or less. Purchasing a kitten from a breeder is similarly inexpensive; although, it may run between $100-$200.
 
Breed will make a difference in the lifetime costs of cats. Their lifespans are about the same as small dogs. Some breeds are more prone to health issues, which will raise your yearly vet bills. Most cat breeds, however, will not cost nearly as much as dogs per year. In general, you will likely pay between $500-$1000 per year to own a cat.
 

Ferrets 

A final extremely common small pet is the ferret. These fun-loving weasels make great pets. The price of a ferret can vary, but will likely be between $50-$250. They live between five and fifteen years as pets. You will also need to purchase a habitat for them to use when not supervised. They are just too inquisitive to be left unattended.
 
Ferrets generally have fewer lifetime costs than other small pets. You will likely pay between $200-$500 per year to keep them.
  
Final thoughts 

The variety and diversity of small pets make them ideal for any family. No matter the type of pet you are looking for, you can find it in this category. A major advantage of small pets is that they tend to be less expensive than large pets. As seen in the list above, costs vary by type. Make sure to research the one time and lifetime costs of owning your chosen pet. That way you can enjoy your pet without worrying about the associated costs.
 
 
Just rescued a beautiful new member of the family? Find out about our veterinary clinics and our low-cost spray and neuter centres.  Or, browse through our lovely pets currently available for adoption here.

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    Author

    Melissa Kauffman

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 Gulf Coast Humane Society, 2010 Arcadia Street, Fort Myers, FL. 33916      
​
Phone (239) 332 0364  Fax (239) 332 8676    
Email Us        ​Map
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Spay/Neuter Clinic (239) 332 1573
                            2010 Arcadia Street, Fort Myers, FL. 33916 
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Gulf Coast Humane Society Veterinary Clinic
2685 Swamp Cabbage Court, Fort Myers, FL 33901
                     Clinic  (239) 332 2719  Clinic Fax (239) 332 4391
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