Useful Links

AnywherePetsGo: Kori came on DOG TALK® to discuss the business she and her husband have created to help transport dogs to and from shelters and private rescues. More information on the website at www.anywherepetsgo.com

Behavior Issues Do you have serious behavioral issues with your dog or cat? There is a veterinary specialty called an Animal Behaviorist and only vets who have received this additional training qualify to belong to their organizations, The American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior and the American College of Veterinary Behaviorists. You can find one in your area by going to: www.avsabonline.org and/or www.dacvb.org.

TRACIE'S SPECIAL PROJECT

Dog Fencing (www.bestfriendfence.com) TRYING TO FIGURE OUT HOW TO GIVE YOUR DOGS SAFE, AFFORDABLE FREEDOM OUTDOORS? Do you have deer you want to keep out and dogs you want to keep in? And would you like to fence your property the way I am going to do it myself? Wait until you see this great product: it is black plastic mesh fencing that is nearly invisible to the eye (because it is black), it is strong enough to keep in big dogs, flexible and light enough for a woman to put up herself (that would be yours truly!) and the bonus is that you can now start planting a garden without worrying about the deer destroying it because this is the original deer fencing that people have used for years to protect their plantings from hungry Bambis. Best Friend Fence has modified this fencing so that you can erect the black metal pole supports without pounding them in - you just tap "holders" into the ground that the poles fit into and then use cable ties to hold the fencing to the poles. The rest of the fence can be stapled right to trees if you have any and there are access gates and other accessories available. And is it all delivered right to your door.

Bideawee has three locations - a shelter in NYC and a shelter in Westhampton, as well as a pet cemetery and training center in Wantaugh.

Dogster & Catster (dogster.com & catster.com ) Periodically you'll find a Daily Tip from The Dog Bible on DOGSTER.COM and one from The Cat Bible on CATSTER.COM. Tracie is so excited about this wonderful new partnership and the nuggets of information and advice she can give to people of both persuasions (canine and feline, that is).

Sign up now to get my (periodic) Daily Tip (words of wisdom) directly from Dogster.com and Catster.com. The tips are just about to launch so beat the rush and be the first on your block to sign up right now!

PantsForDogs (www.pantsfordogs.com) For a small male dog who marks around the house, sometimes the only way to stop it is to put a band around his belly. There are a number of companies that make these "boy cummerbunds" but www.pantsfordogs.com seems to have gentle prices and a good selection of fabrics and colors.

Astra's Pee Sticks: (www.vaxa.com) ARE YOU WORRIED ABOUT CRYSTALS OR STONES? Has your dog or cat been diagnosed by the vet with urinary crystals or stones as Astra the kitty has been? Then checking her urinary pH is part of keeping an eye on her in partnership with your vet. Vaxa International sells sticks that you hold in the urine flow to see how acid or alkaline it is (its pH balance). Call 800-248-8292 or go to www.vaxa.com. Also please check links about nutrition on this site for information about the proper diet to lower the chance of more crystals forming. Remember you are working together with your vet in maintain urinary health, so keep this information for him and have periodic ultrasound and/or urinary analysis at his recommendation.

Fetchstix (http://www.vtfetchstix.com)

A super cool, one-of-a-kind healthy dog chew and throw toy! Perfect for the long boring indoor days of winter!

Fetchstix are green and environmentally friendly: organic, renewable, real Vermont maple sticks, made ready for your dog's chewing pleasure. Fetchstix are super hard (and can withstand more bite pressure than any "aggressive chewer" toy I've ever encountered) and appear to be very satisfying to a boy like Teddy, who is often disappointed by sticks he drags in from the outdoors which he deconstructs into splinters in now time. If you have a Lab or other eager retriever, wait until spring and see what a great fetch toy Fetchstix is, instead of tennis balls, which are seriously damaging to dogs' teeth and health. There's a hilarious manual about how to throw a Fetchstix attached to every bundle of three. And as a gift, you can have a dog's name burned into the wood!

TravelStix (www.MyTravelStix.com)

The Dog Care & Pet Travel Stix™ and the Cat Care & Pet Travel Stix™ is perfect when you travel with or without your favorite puppy of fantastic feline. Our Travel Stix™ come with pre-embedded easy to fill out Adobe fill-in pdfs including our Dog or Cat Care Profiles and a Pet Medical Authorization for caregivers PLUS 2GB of memory for scanning of copies of important documents, including: passports, copies of your dog's or cat's prescriptions and special care instructions, medical information, relevant travel and health certificates for pets, picture of pets, veterinary records and travel documents, travel insurance documents and more! Visit www.MyTravelStix.com and get yours for only $19.99! P.S. 10% discount to Tracie's listeners. Put DOG TALK or CAT CHAT in the code box at check out

Twistep ( www.TWISTEP.com) Twistep has saved my dogs’ life! Without it, they simply could not get into my Explorer or Subaru. The Twistep is an ingenious step that swivels out from beneath your SUV to provide a step for your large dog to get safely and comfortably into the back of your vehicle. Every other product for dogs to get into an SUV requires you to put it in place and then lift it to store inside the vehicle, not only interfering with interior space but also getting mud, water or snow on you and inside your vehicle. The Twistep solves that with unique engineering that allows it to swing easily back underneath the SUV for storage until your dog needs to exit the car, which the Twistep allows him to do equally safely. As I explain in THE DOG BIBLE, large dogs should not leap into SUVs because it puts too much pressure on their joints – the same is true of jumping down to exit the vehicle. Any dog who has had joint surgery or has developed arthritis with age needs a Twistep to protect those joints from further damage (and your back, too, since trying to lift a big dog into an SUV is either difficult or impossible in many cases!).

Spirit Essences (www.spiritessences.com)

To my utter amazement, giving a combination of two Spirit Essences (Nervous Nelly and Stress Free) has actually changed my dogs personalities! Scooby Doo, my over-reactive, neurotic, always-worried Weimaraner is now chilled out about things that used to rattle him entirely. Jazzy, a very territorial and loud-mouthed Border Collie/Sled dog mix, who barked her head off at arriving people (and was standoffish with them when they arrived), now has Safe Space in her food and barks a couple of times and then walks away, later sitting by the peoples' feet in the house. It has blown my mind, since I thought Spirit Essences were primarily for the emotional issues of cats — but not at all.I can vouch that most any emotional part of a dog's behavior can be improved with the right Essences - along with behavior modification and training in some cases. Please call in and or write in and let's talk about which ones might be right for your four-legged family member!

Zuke's (www.zukes.com) makes a really healthy chew treat made of good ingredients - it's just hard enough to really clean the teeth, last for a while, but not cause the digestive and swallowing issues of chewies I've been steering people away from. And Zuke's come in many sizes, too.

The Dog Food Project
(www.dogfoodproject.com), a truly wonderful online resource center for nutritional information and advice, with ways to share ideas and ask questions of Mordanna, or others who write in.

Website Design & Hosting — AuthorPromo.com (www.authorpromo.com) Jack Passarella is THE MAN where websites are concerned -- he makes all the additions to my website and helps with every kind of Internet issue. He designs fabulous websites for authors - but he'll help regular people, too!

Non-Profits, The Do-Gooders

CHARITY NAVIGATOR (www.charitynavigator.org) This website is a great "reality check" for charities if you are wondering whether a charity is legitimately raising money to do what they claim.

One Click To Do A Good Deed For Animals (Animal Rescue Site)

Hi, animal lovers. This is pretty simple... Please tell ten friends to tell ten
today! The Animal Rescue Site is having trouble getting enough people to click on it
daily to meet their quota of getting free food donated every day to abused and
neglected animals.

It takes less than a minute (How about 20 seconds) to go to their site and click on
the purple box "fund food for animals" for free. This doesn't cost you a thing.

Their corporate sponsors/advertisers use the number of daily visits to donate food
to abandoned/neglected animals in exchange for advertising.

Here's the web site! Pass it along to people you know.

http://www.theanimalrescuesite.com

P.S. Here's Snope's acknowledgement that the above is true :
http://www.snopes.com/inboxer/charity/animalrescue.asp%20

Bark Buckle Up (www.barkbuckleup.com)

Dogs Deserve Better (www.dogsdeservebetter.org): This private group is the only one in the country trying to enlighten people about the inhumane practice of chaining dogs. They have already gotten over 1,000 dogs off of chains and into real homes but need everyones' support to keep on getting one dog at a time off the end of a chain... As featured on Dog Talk on DEC 15, 2007.

For anyone who prefers not to donate money to groups, DDB have come up with another wonderful way to contribute to their worthy cause. Volunteers always need toys and treats to give to the foster dogs and to the new families who adopt them, and this allows you to be the fairy godmother: http://www.dogsdeservebetter.org/sponsor2007.html

Corgi Aid (www.CorgiAid.org) Want a Corgi, like you saw in The Queen? There is a network of folks who rescue, heal, foster and place Cardigan and Pembroke Welsh Corgis. Go to www.CorgiAid.org and find out how you can help with time, money or to offer a loving home to a Corgi who needs one.

Doggone Safe (www.Doggonesafe.com) is a small Canadian non-profit company dedicated to promoting safety for children around dogs and ways to prevent bites. They have excellent teaching materials for use in the classroom as well as books and a board game for use at home.

Friends of Shelton Animal Shelter (www.FriendsOfSAS.com) Our devoted listener Viv of Shelton, Connecticut got all three of her wonderful rescued pooches from the shelter in her town and hopes others will look there first for a dog when they're ready to enlarge their family - or just come on down to spend time with the dogs who really appreciate a walk or a cuddle. The volunteers of Friends of Shelton Animal Shelter will also welcome the company.

Greyhound Rescue (Adopt-a-Grehyound.org): With Greyhound racing tracks closing across the country, nearly 8,000 magnificent Greyhounds are looking for homes - and make wonderful easy pets. Go to www.adopt-a-greyhound.org lists every greyhound adoption group worldwide. The website also has lots of information about greyhounds, their history, temperment and care.

Hands For Paws (Manos por Patas, www.handsforpaws.org) is a non-profit organization dedicated to ending the suffering of stray dogs (called "satos" by the locals) roaming Puerto Rico, desperately in need of medical attention, food and water, and a loving touch.

"Our program involves providing sterilizations to the dogs as well as medical attention and vaccinations. We will broaden the program to provide free or low-cost spay and neuter services for all pets in Puerto Rico. We are also beginning a public awareness program that will involve radio and television spots to increase awareness about the cruelty imposed on these animals and will take programs into the schools to educate children about animal cruelty and ethical treatment of animals."

HemoPet (www.HemoPet.org) Do you love Greyhounds? So does Dr. Jean Dodd, who has created this remarkable organization that is the world's only bloodbank for dogs by saving racing Greyhounds off the track, letting them humanely and comfortably give blood monthly for one year, after which they are placed in permanent loving homes.To learn more, go to www.HemoPets.org.

The Humane Society of the United States (www.hsus.org) is sometimes mistaken for a government agency since it is based in Washington, D.C. and works tirelessly on the legislative level to improve conditions for all animals in our country. However, HSUS is a non-profit organization that puts donation dollars and staff efforts to the best possible use: educating people so they can make life better for animals who are suffering, from companion animals to those in the food chain to those in the wild. Click on the “Teach Kids to Read Dogs” ™ link to learn about how Tracie is working with the Humane Society of the United States to prevent dog bites with a campaign to teach school children how to “read” dogs’ body language to keep themselves safe.

And for the work that the Humane Society of the United States is doing outside our borders, please go to the Humane Society International website www.hsus.org/hsi to learn about problems and solutions for animals across the globe.

Suffolk SPCA: (www.SuffolkSpca.org) Are You Worried About Animal Abuse Next Door? Do You Think Someone is Hoarding Pets in Their House? Here is how to handle it: contact the SPCA or ASPCA where you live. For those who live in Suffolk County, New York, go to SuffolkSpca.org to reach a highly trained totally volunteer organization dedicated to animal welfare 24-7, year round.

National Canine Cancer Foundation (www.wearethecure.org): Tracie Hotchner and The Dog Bible support the National Canine Cancer Foundation across the country at events. Dogs desperately need your help fighting cancer. One of three dogs will get cancer; 50% of those will die of cancer. Their lives depend on you helping to fight cancer.

National Greyhound Adoption Program (www.ngap.org) is based at 10901 Dutton Road in Philadelphia PA 19154 (215-3331-7918) or at www.ngap.org. They have arranged over 6,000 adoptions of greyhounds who could not run fast enough at the track and would otherwise have been killed.

National Institute for Animal Advocacy (www.NIFAA.org): The NIFAA is a charitable organization dedicated to training animal rights and rescue groups in how to influence politicians and policy to improve conditions for animals. Julie Lewin, the head of NIFAA, spoke to Tracie on the December 22nd 20007 DOG TALK show.

Petfinders.com (www.petfinders.com) is the first place anyone looks who wants to adopt a dog from their local shelter or a specific breed from a breed rescue. Most humane societies and rescues list their available dogs with photos and descriptions.

Rabies Challenge: (www.rabieschallengefund.org ) Dr. Jean Dodds (www.hemopet.org) and Dr. Ron Schulz are spending years doing reserach to prove that rabies vaccines need only be given every 5 years, not every year, or every three years.Learn how you can help keep our pets safer.

Standing Up Against Dog-Fighting:
PRIZE, NOT FIGHTER

Shocked by the gruesome activity of dog-fighting, Scottsdale artist, Ron Burns, and The Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) have leaped into action. Joining together, they have developed a program aiming to eliminate this, already illegal, activity, and thereby saving the lives of the countless animal participants, which are scarred, maimed, and killed each year. Prize Not Fighter Campaign

HT-Z Giant Schnauzer Rescue: (www.ht-z.org) This organization was made possible by devoted Giant owners and others who have worked in Giant rescue for over 20 years. HT-Z Giant Schnauzer Rescue, Inc, exists for the purpose of helping to save the lives of Giant Schnauzers with rehabilitation and foster care until they can find their forever homes. Donations help cover the cost of grooming, veterinary care, transportation, and fostering expenses. Your donation is greatly appreciated. HT-Z Giant Schnauzer Rescue, Inc is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization and donations are tax deductible.

The Sula Foundation (www.sulafoundation.org): New Orleans-based author Ken Foster is working to help the canine citizens of his fine city as it rebuilds and also to correct the wrong impression many people have of the American Pit Bull.

Surf Dog Ricochet: www.surfdogricochet.com Living a lifestyle of helping others by pawing it forward while raising awareness & funds for human/animal causes. She surfs for fun & wins surf dog contests too! She's best known for her inspirational video "From service dog to SURFice dog" that went viral on YouTube & has almost 3 million views. Kleenex alert! www.youtube.com/watch?v=BGODurRfVv4. Join her on Facebook too! www.facebook.com/SurfDogRicochet

Sweet Border Collie Rescue mission: (www.glenhighlandfarm.com/sbcr.htm) Throughout the year, GHF operates a proactive rescue and adoption program (Sweet Border Collie Rescue) for homeless, unwanted and abandoned border collies and border collie mixes. These dogs are frequently victims of neglect and abuse. At Glen Highland Farm, they are evaluated, spayed/neutered, treated medically where necessary, rehabilitated socially and eventually placed into new homes. GHF will save 100 dogs every year.

Canine Country Camp (www.glenhighlandfarm.com/caninecamp.htm) A 6 day vacation - It’s time for a vacation...why leave your dog at home? Go together for a doggie break in the country where you'll have instructors introducing you and your dog to agility, frisbee, flyball, tracking, water sports, animal communication and more! ! All breeds are invited!! All teaching & meals included in this full activity camp experience!

ProjectNoahSaveThePets.org (ProjectNoahSaveThePets.org) Want to help people who can't afford medical care for their pets? Did you hear Dr. Brian Forsgren talk about his amazing clinic in Cleveland that takes care of everyone regardless of ability to pay? If you want to learn more about how to make this possible in your own area, go to ProjectNoahSaveThePets.org.

Tails of Hope Foundation (www.tailsofhopefoundation.org) Tracie is proud to have been invited to join the Tails of Hope effort across the country:

Tails of Hope Foundation, Inc. ("Tails of Hope") is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to advancing the field of veterinary medicine and helping to eradicate cancer and other life-threatening diseases affecting companion animals. Tails of Hope is a collaborative, pioneering effort among general and specialty veterinarians, veterinary technicians, experts in human medicine and the public, each of whose participation is critical to making progress in combating these dreaded diseases. Everyone's participation in this pioneering effort is not only welcomed by Tails of Hope but is essential to allowing the organization to accomplish its goals. Tails of Hope invites everyone to join its effort to bring hope to companion animals suffering from these life-threatening diseases and to the families who love them. For more information about Tails of Hope, please visit the organization's website at www.tailsofhopefoundation.org.

Vermont Leads the Country with an Anti-Cruelty Coalition

(www.vermonthumane.org) An innovative program has been launched to combat animal cruelty and neglect throughout the state of Vermont. Over a 12-month period, a Cruelty Response System (CRS) will be implemented to serve each of Vermont's 14 counties. These systems establish a coalition of all local law enforcement and humane agencies that ensures every complaint of animal cruelty and neglect in the state of Vermont is investigated and handled appropriately. This first-ever, statewide animal cruelty initiative of its kind has been met with great enthusiasm and can serve as a model for other states. For more information about this program, please contact Jill Tucker. Jill is happy to provide information that may help address humane enforcement challenges in your community.

World Society for the Protection of Animals (www.wspa-usa.org) The World Society for the Protection of Animals is the umbrella organization for 800 humane groups in over 150 countries, working around the globe to make this a better world for animals everywhere. Link: www.wspa-usa.org

To add your voice to theirs, click on the link below to sign the petition for the Universal Declaration on Animal Welfare. Link: www.animalsmatterusa.org