Rocky – A Milk River Rescue

Foster Family Updates

1939554_516362145173213_2048711711924831749_n  Hi folks! My name is Rocky, I’m a very handsome 8-10 month old Alaskan Malamute cross. I’m one of the 3 dogs that Zoe’s took in from the Milk River hoarding case. I’m a very gentle, sweet boy, and I’m working on gaining trust in humans again. I’m really shy but once I warm up, I get these short little bursts of energy and run around and play with all my toys. My foster family thinks it’s really cute and funny! There’s another dog here, I love to follow them around everywhere they go. Great news- I don’t chew on ANYTHING! But, I do love to rearrange my toys all over the house. I love other dogs, and as I’ve said before I’m very sweet. I adore kids, I’m actually really good with them. I haven’t been around cats yet. I’m working on basic training and obedience with my foster family- but I don’t have many accidents in the house. I would love a home with another dog to learn from and help me be more confident. Could I be part of your family? I’d really like to find my forever home full of endless love- I deserve it after everything I’ve been through in my short lifetime. If you’re interested in possibly meeting me and maybe even adding me to your family, please fill out an adoption application on the Zoe’s website. I can’t wait to meet my new family! Xoxo, Rocky.

Printable Puppy and Kitten Valentine’s Day Cards

Are you looking for unique Valentine’s? Then look no further!

puppyvalentine

Jen from Mama & Co., who sold adorable wienie dog gift tags for us at Christmas, has added another cute item to her etsy store in support of Zoe’s.

kittenvalentineYou can chose from puppy or kitty color-your-own designs (or both!).

And as Jen suggests,

These cards are perfect for:
– young children who colour the Valentines in before giving them to grandparents, aunties and uncles, cousins, or friends
– kids who are sharing valentines day cards at school (leave the cards blank for the recipient to colour in themselves and attach 3 or 4 crayons from the dollar store in a small plastic bag)
– attaching to homemade kitty or puppy treats
– for animal lovers

All proceeds from these Valentine’s go straight to Zoe’s to help more animals in need.

Visit the Mama & Co Etsy store to purchase your perfect Valentine’s Day Cards.

Correcting Common Litter Box Issues

litterboxFirst things first! Always check with a vet before correction for behavioural problems. Cats can’t “tell” you when something is wrong, so they must try to show you. Watch for blood in their urine or feces, and watch how difficult it is for them to urinate or defecate. Urinary crystals are common among indoor, male cats, but females can get them too. Crystals will be painful and cause urinary blockage, and if left untreated, can be fatal. Other medical issues relating to litter box problems could be anxiety, PH balance, (often treated with urinary food,) or as serious as kidney failure. There are many supplements to add to your cats food, such as more fluids from tinned (wet) food, or cranberries!

Once cleared by a vet, it’s time to start thinking about what your cat is trying to tell you. This requires a bit of investigation, or as Pam Johnson-Bennett says, “think like a cat!” Here’s some common things to consider:

Location, location, location!

While some cats are solitary beings, and prefer to do their business in peace, others enjoy the prospect of a social ritual around the litter box. Where is their box located? Is it in a high-traffic area, where they me startled or find the lack of peace distracting? Is it downstairs, far away from any communal area where they may hang out? It’s a good idea to try different places for the litter box, even using multiple boxes as you determine where your cat likes to do his business. In a multi-level house, you may want to consider a box on each floor, or at least keeping it on the middle floor. How would you like it if you woke up in the middle of the night on the third floor, and the toilet was all the way downstairs? And never place the litter box near your cat’s food and water. We don’t eat in the bathroom, why should they?

Doing your business in style!

Sometimes your cat just isn’t happy with his box. We like to be comfy while we.. er, do our thing, and so does he! Is the box too small? Too large? Perhaps it’s hooded and he would prefer the open air between his cheeks! A liner or lid may make it uncomfortable. The rim might be too high for him to climb into, or the self-cleaning mechanism might freak him right out. Perhaps a different box will make all the difference. And keep it clean! Litter boxes should be cleaned daily, not only to prevent discomfort or smell, but also to reduce risk of certain diseases like coronavirus spreading. If you live in a small space, such as an apartment, you can “catify” your open litter box by making an entrance in a large Rubbermaid container, or in a storage ottoman! This allows the cat to have his box without a low ceiling, but doesn’t leave your guests eyeing up the litter all day. You could even have two entrances for even more freedom.

litterbox2Multiple cats, multiple boxes!

Every cat should have his own litter box. Urine is a “marker” for many animals in the wild, and your cat may prefer to use his own box, with his own smell. The multiple boxes can be placed in the same location next to each other, but sometimes having that option of ownership makes his territorial issues a little more bearable. You may also notice that cats have a tendency to urinate in one box, and defecate in the second. It’s a weird thing science can’t explain, but sometimes even with a single cat a second box is an easy fix.

Sand between my toes!

Cats can be picky – you may have noticed this with food and treats, but litter can also be a choice! Clay based litters are hard, and can hurt delicate paws and declawed cats. Some of the other options you have are: plant-based (such as World’s Best Cat Litter and Swheat Scoop), newspaper based (such as Yesterday’s News), or weird plastic things called Litter Pearls. Some cats are turned off by clumping litter, while others are grossed out by non-clumping. Scents can also cause aversion to litter boxes. If you want to deodorize, use a deodorizing litter or plain old baking soda. Finally, if your cat came from the outdoors, they may be confused by litter and need a little encouragement, such as sprinkling grass clippings on top of the litter in the beginning. And remember, one to two inches is all they need. If your cat feels like he’s sinking in quicksand, he’s not going to want to stay in there long!

In this corner, your cat!

Cats are territorial. We all know it, we all neuter and spay to prevent it! In multi-animal households, cats need to feel like they have a “safe” place. Whether it’s from another cat, a dog, or a child, your cat is like a teenager – he needs his own room! Sometimes cats will pee on new things to show their displeasure, or to mark it as their own. This could be a new couch, the new guy’s cat bed, or a new baby’s crib. This sort of behaviour is harder to correct. Does your cat have his own “safe” place? His own bed, or his own cat tree? You can try placing his things on the new items, for example, placing his blanket on the new couch, or his cat bed in the baby’s room. Purchasing new items just for him may also make a difference, rub his scent all over that new cat tree and show him it’s all his. If reasonable, make it easy for him to get away from the new guys – whether it is up on top of the fridge, or installing some IKEA shelves for him to climb up and away from grabby hands. Talk to your vet about other ways to correct marking.

Here’s some tips for dealing with the aftermath:

litterbox3No matter what the issue, cat pee stinks! It is comprised of ammonia, and can be very difficult to wash out of furniture, carpets, and your clothes. Use a urine-remover such as Nature’s Miracle to remove those pee enzymes from the carpet, and give it a good scrub with vinegar and water. Don’t use soap or cleaner until you’re sure that urine is completely gone! Cats have way more sensitive noses than we do, and a simple run through the washing machine may rid the smell from your nose, but he will sniff it out!

As with the litter box, cats like to urinate in the same place, for comfort, territory, and habit. If the ammonia isn’t completely wiped from the material, your cat will return there thinking, “hey! I peed here once!” and do it all over again. You can try putting a litter box where he has urinated before, giving him the option of continuing to use his favorite area. On the other hand, you can make his favorite spots less appealing by putting motion activated deterrents like lights or air-puffers. You can also create deterrents on the floor, such as turning a piece of carpet upside down or taping down a sticky substance like fly paper or double sided tape.

Note: Never punish your cat for urinating. He is trying to tell you something is wrong, whether he is upset or ill, it is important to correct the behaviour instead of instilling fear. Causing your cat to be afraid of urinating will only cause more problems for you both! Never lock him in a room or kennel, never rub his nose in his urine or feces, and never scold him or hit him for urinating. Do NOT spray your cat with a water bottle. Cats don’t respond to discipline the same way dogs or humans do. Keep doors closed if he is urinating in recurring rooms (like your bedroom), and always remember that your vet knows more than your friend, Google, or me!

A Pupcake for Your Furry Valentine

valentinescakeZoe’s Animal Rescue Bakery will be doing a special Valentine’s Day promotion!

If you haven’t heard of the bakery before, we are volunteer run and make all sorts of treats for your pooches. From cookies to dog birthday cakes, we are always here to spoil your dogs!

And the great thing is, ALL the money that the bakery raises at ANY time is donated to Zoe’s!

For Valentine’s Day, we are also offering cupcakes for humans! Flavours available are: chocolate, red velvet, or vanilla. Our pupcakes are banana peacan flavoured, with dog friendly icing!

Pricing is as follows: $2 for 2, $5 for 6, $10 for 12.

Message Zoe’s Animal Rescue Bakery on Facebook to place your order, or email us at [email protected]

Liv – Foster Family Updates

Rabbit Hill Pet Valu

Liv Hi there, my name is Liv. I am a very beautiful one year old female cat. I came into Zoe’s with three 2 day old kittens. My kittens have all been adopted and it is just me looking for my forever home. I am extremely affectionate, in fact I purr non stop quite often. I love people and I love the attention I get at Rabbit Hill Pet valu. I am fine with Sawyer so I should be fine with other cats. I am good with dogs once I get to know them, a cat savvy dog would be great. I am a very affectionate cat so I should be fine with kids. I would love to find my forever home, and I know if you met me you would fall head over heels in love! I know I am not a little kitten but I am only a year old and the perfect mix of cuddly and play without the serious non stop kitten antics. Come down to Rabbit Hill Pet Valu to meet me – and if you’re interested in adding me to your family please fill out an adoption application on the Zoe’s website. I can’t wait to find my furever home! Lots of love, Liv.

Molly – Foster Family Updates

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Hi everyone, Molly here! I thought I’d tell everyone a bit about myself and how I’m doing in my foster home! I’m a 1.5 year old Saint Bernard/Akita cross, and I’m 85 pounds. Don’t let my size fool you, I’m really a sweet dog! I love attention… from giving kisses, to being pet, and even cuddling with my foster parents. I’m also very playful with the other dogs in the house, and get along fine with little dogs too. My favourite toys include stuffed animals, and anything that squeaks! I LOVE going to the dog park and meeting other dogs, I’m so friendly and get along with every dog I’ve met so far! I’m also really enjoying swimming. I haven’t been around younger kids yet, but I’m great around babies! I have medium energy and love walks, but I don’t quite understand what that leash is all about yet! My foster mom says we’re working on it. I don’t like to be left alone so I would love my forever family to be with another doggy friend or even a home where someone will be home more often. If you’re interested in meeting me and maybe even adding me to your family, fill out an adoption application on the Zoe’s website! I can’t wait to find my furever home! Much love, Molly.

Simon – Foster Family Updates

DSC_1818 (2)  Hi there, my name’s Simon! I’m one of the newest kitties that was brought into Zoe’s with my brother Sheeran. I’m a very handsome male black kitten, around 6 months old. I’m great with kids and I love to be around other kitties, but I haven’t been around dogs yet. I’m doing great in my foster home, I really love to curl up in the crook of my foster mom’s neck. She always tells me I could be a therapy cat. I do still have a lot of my kitten energy, I LOVE to play! But don’t worry, I’m very gentle. I would love a home with a playmate or two to keep me busy. If you’re interested in meeting me and possibly adding me to your family, please fill out an adoption application on the website. I can’t wait to find my furever home! Love, Simon.

Blissful Buns Leggings Fundraiser for February

blissfulbunsDo you love leggings?

Well you’re in luck, Blissful Buns Leggings Beaumont has partnered with Zoe’s for a fundraiser for the entire month of February.

$5 per every pair of leggings sold this month from BB Leggings Beaumont will be donated to Zoe’s and go towards helping our animals in need!

You can find them on Facebook under the name Blissful Buns Leggings Beaumont.

Adopt A Pup with Avon by Michelle

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Michelle Webb is a volunteer with Zoe’s and she’s been with us since Day 1. Michelle is an Avon rep and will be running a fundraiser for us for these adorable stuffed pups!

Money raised will go towards helping pay our recent vet bills as we’ve had a lot of intakes (including 3 dogs from the Milk River situation) as well as special therapy for Jack Frost, our adorable beagle. Kelcie the stuffed pup sings the song Kiss Me and his dog tag can be personalized to say anything you’d like. He costs $24.99 (plus tax) and $5 per adopted stuffed puppy will be donated towards Zoe’s.

Order deadline is this Sunday, February 8th at 7pm. They can be ordered through Michelle’s Avon page on Facebook, or email your order in to [email protected]. Thank you for so much support, our animals really appreciate your help in giving them a second chance at life! 

 

 

Tricks for Training: an Amateur's Guide to Schooling Your New Dog

by Amanda Kelley*

If you’re like me, sifting through dog training advice is a frustrating experience peppered with guilt. There are so many different methods, and opinions tend to be polarized and emotionally charged. Am I a bad person if I don’t crate train? Are clickers the only way to go? Am I being too strict, or too lenient?

OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERAI’m not a seasoned dog trainer, so fortunately for you, I won’t be hitting you with a training program and series of cutesy acronyms. But I do study animal behaviour, and having run the dog training gauntlet with an unsocialized dog and a critical eye, I believe I can share a few good kernels of advice.

When I got my first dog, Hannah, I took a training course where we were not allowed to use treats for motivation, the rationale being that our dogs would treat us like candy dispensers rather than authority figures if food was involved. Hannah and I struggled through the course. Watching the other dogs, I noticed that those who were learning faster were initiating eye contact and behaving as if praise itself was a treat. Hannah, having recently been a stray, showed little response to praise. She didn’t yet know what a smile was, or why it was important. The experience was frustrating, and did nothing for our relationship. Afterwards, I switched to treat-based training. Food is a universal signifier of Good Things, and in our case, it helped Hannah learn my facial and body expressions (obedient Hannah = happy face Amanda = cookies for Hannah). Since then, I have gotten another dog, for whom praise and toys are a much stronger driver than food.

So what can we learn from this experience?

Adoptable Christy May (left) has only recently begun her life as as indoor dog, but she's willing to try new things!

Adoptable Christy May (left) has only recently begun her life as as indoor dog, but she’s willing to try new things!

Experiment.
You don’t have to jump on board with any particular training method. This isn’t like joining a secret society or getting a tattoo: you have the freedom to try different techniques, weigh them, and toss ‘em out if they don’t work. And if they don’t work out, it doesn’t necessarily mean that the trainer is a hack. Dogs, like people, have different personalities and different ways of learning, so a single approach is unlikely to work for every animal.

Observe.
How do you know when it’s working? Or (more likely!) when to give up? Your dog can tell you that, but you’ll probably have to do a little trial and error. For example, a sensitive dog may not respond well to methods on the stricter end of the spectrum. (If it cowers or trembles, you need to tone it down.) However, the same technique that frightens one dog may just bounce off an unruly, confident one. Luckily, dogs have been bred to be good at communicating with us, and with some practice, you can start up a dialogue. Say what you will about Cesar, but in this humble writer’s opinion, a few episodes of Dog Whisperer will help get you in the right frame of mind to think critically about your dog’s body language. And once you can decipher what they’re trying to tell you, and their motivations, you’re well on your way.

Grampa Jack, one of our adoptables, knows how to relax.

Grampa Jack, who’s available for adoption, knows how to relax.

Relax.
Remaining calm is key. Learning a new language isn’t like flipping a switch: it takes time and patience. Your dog won’t pick up on everything right away, and some things may be completely out of their grasp. It’s fine if your dog isn’t perfectly trained; just remember that if you can’t control your dog’s behaviour, you have to control the environment. Does your dog jump on children? Then they need to be supervised. Are they bad at recall? Then they can’t be off leash in potentially dangerous areas. As your control increases, you start to introduce them to more unpredictable environments.

The take home message: Your internet search is not yet over. Do your own research, and try to get a good idea of your options. It’s not a quick fix, but it is the best option for maintaining your sanity.

Have you found a training method that works for you and your pup? If so, please share in the comments below, along with a description of your pup’s personality!

*Amanda Kelley, MSc., is a blogger, web manager, and photographer for Zoe’s. In her professional life, she is a wildlife biologist who specializes in animal personality.