De cat came back—thought she were a goner,
But de cat came back for it wouldn't stay away.
—Lyrics from "The Cat Came Back," a song written by Harry S. Miller in 1893.
It's a story that tugs at the heartstrings of all pet devotees: A cat given up for lost in 1995 has come home. As first reported by The Press Democrat, a gray and brown-tinged kitty with round, golden eyes named George was reunited with his Santa Rosa, Calif., owners last week after animal control officers tracked them down by scanning a microchip with identifying info implanted under the animal's skin. (See slideshow of George.)
Frank Walburg says his boy, George, now nearly 17, was but a shadow of his former self when found—weighing a paltry 6.3 pounds (2.9 kilograms), less than half the nearly 14 pounds (6.4 kilograms) he weighed the day he vanished over 13 years ago. He was also sick, suffering from a respiratory infection as well as toxoplasmosis, a parasitic disease characterized by lethargy and weight loss, which can be successfully treated with antibiotics.
"He used to be like a heater on wheels," Walburg chuckles about his beloved feline friend, "like a lion in both appearance and walk," his wife, Melinda Merman, wrote on her Web site. Still, Walburg told the San Francisco Chronicle "there was no ambiguity that he was the same dude, no doubt about it."
George disappeared on June 23, 1995, back when Bill Clinton was president and Whitewater was in the headlines. Walburg says that he and Merman spent weeks scouring the neighborhood for him. They visited Sonoma County's five animal shelters every other day for six months, posted missing cat signs, sent flyers to and called every veterinary clinic in the area and offered a hefty $500 reward for his return. Alas, as days turned into weeks and weeks into months and months into years, Walburg says their hopes of finding George faded, "but we never stopped thinking about him."
"It was hard not knowing what might have happened to him," Walburg told ScientificAmerican.com, pausing to control his emotions. "We would imagine that he was just around the corner or trapped somewhere—and we would go and check."
And so one can only imagine how he and Merman felt last week when they received a call from Sonoma County Animal Care and Control: George was there, the message said. "We didn't know what to expect, we didn't know if he was dead or alive, because they also pick up animals on the road that have been killed," Walburg says, noting that he and Merman cried the entire 20-minute trip to claim him.
When they arrived at the county shelter, George was in medical isolation. "The routine practice is to scan for a chip and, if there isn't one, to make a determination on the spot" about an animal's fate, he says. "George was grossly sick, way underweight, he had watery eyes, was lethargic, not eating; there is zero doubt that since his health was so bad, they would not have been able to adopt him out to anyone and he would have been euthanized if it weren't for the microchip."
"He's home because of his microchip,'' Walburg says, noting that his wife, then a volunteer at the Humane Society (and now at Forgotten Felines, which spays and neuters feral cats and provides food for them until their natural deaths), insisted that George and his three littermates be micro-chipped when they adopted them in 1992. At that time, the technology was new and mostly used on dogs.
U.S. animal microchip manufacturer AVID Identification Systems, Inc., based in southern California, filed for a patent on the technology in 1985; the first chips were implanted into companion animals in 1989, according to Mary Metzner, AVID's shelter operations representative (who trains animal control officers and shelter personnel on how to properly implant and use the system). She says the rice-size radio-frequency identification (RFID) device is activated with a handheld scanner; the radio frequency used is 125 kilohertz.
Microchips are generally implanted under the skin over the shoulder blades in dogs and cats. Each one contains an identification number unique to that animal; every microchip sold is automatically registered (to the vet who purchases it) in PETtrac, AVID's national recovery data base, according to Metzner.
She says private veterinary clinics on average charge from $60 to $100, and shelters from $20 to $30 (and often much less) to implant a microchip and register a pet for its lifetime. The chip is encapsulated in biocompatible glass (the type used in pacemakers, stents and other medical devices) and has been tested to last for at least 75 years, according to Metzner, who adds that AVID has sold more than 25 million microchips. Among other brands distributed in the U.S.: resQ, HomeAgain and 24PetWatch.
Some studies in the 1990s found that tumors formed in mice and rats in tissue around where the microchips were placed. But Metzner said further testing has produced no evidence of a link between cancer risk and the devices, which are only activated when scanned—and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2004 found the process safe enough to be used in animals and humans.
AVID, when contacted by Sonoma County Animal Care and Control, traced the device in George to Northtown Animal Hospital in Santa Rosa. Walburg says they were lucky their vet had their number, which had been changed since the chip was implanted and registered. In some cases, there is a more direct relationship with pet owners, who can change chip ID registration contact info online.
"Our sole purpose is to bring animals home. So it's a wonderful feeling to know that the system works," Metzner says about George's long-awaited homecoming. "It's a miracle. We get over 1,000 calls a day of people finding pets and reuniting them with families."
She says this is one of—if not the—longest period between a pet's loss and recovery ever recorded. Among other success stories: a cat that had been missing from Los Angeles for a decade, found in Texas several years ago, and a dog missing from Panama, Fla., who was found six years later in Ohio.
"There's no way this reunion after 13 and a half years would have happened without the microchip," Walburg stresses, urging all pet owners to chip their charges and anyone who finds a stray to take it to the nearest shelter or animal hospital to have it scanned for one. He also believes that vets should routinely scan their animal patients to make sure the humans bringing them in are their rightful owners, noting that they might have found George sooner had that been done.
"It's a very reasonable amount of money for something that potentially can help bring your pets home if they lose their collar. But even if your pet is micro-chipped, it's still important to have a visible collar and tag on that animal with the owner's name on it to get it home immediately," says Stephanie Shain, director of outreach at The Humane Society of the United States in Washington, D.C.
"It's pretty amazing," she adds about the George's homecoming. "If you're on the fence of whether you should or shouldn't get [a microchip], this would probably put a lot of people in the 'yes' column who weren't there before."
Walburg says that George was found at a mobile home park about 3.5 miles (5.5 kilometers) from their home, where he was turned over to animal control by the manager.
George was one of four kittens born to a feral cat that the Walburgs adopted. (They also took in their mom, who they had spayed.) Sadly, George's two brothers (twin Ira and Klaus) died two years ago from an intestinal disorder. But sister Grace is still alive (though Walburg reports she was more interested in George's special kibble than in seeing her long-lost brother when they were reunited) and George now has three new foster siblings—Foxy, Sam and Spook.
Walburg, a computer consultant and amateur winemaker who names some varieties after his cats (each bottle is labeled with a photo of its namesake; George will grace the next one), says that he and Merman are nursing George back to health, feeding him dabs of baby food mixed with chicken broth that he initially licked from a spoon and their fingers (but is now eating from a dish) and giving him antibiotics to clear up the toxoplasmosis. (See video.)
He says the cat spends most of his time in the guest room—which has been set aside for him—and that he's slowly but surely regaining his old vim and vigor – and has gained 3.5 ounces (99 grams) since he came home. (See video of George on the mend.)
About a year after George went missing, Melinda Merman wrote a "Letter to George" on her Web site in which she waxed poetic about his personality quirks, how he loved peanut butter and to bat at towels—and hated the rain. And how he always waited at the foot of their bed for them to wake up in the morning.
"There are so many things I miss now that you're gone," she wrote. "In fact, do you remember where you slept at night? On top of the bathroom towel cupboard. Remember your towel up there? Well it's still there. I have cleaned the top of the cupboard, but your towel is just as you left it. We will always wonder what happened to you. And we'll always hope you come home."
On November 5, 2008, she updated her blog: "George was found and returned to us. We are so thrilled to have him back in the family."
Tuesday, December 16, 2008
Friday, December 12, 2008
***URGENT HELP DOGS IN OAKLAND SHELTERS***
2 Urgent Actions
ONE We need to convince the City of Oakland that closing the shelter for ten days is not an option for saving money
.
Please send an urgent email to Dan Lindheim, Budget Director at the Mayor's Office at dlindheim@oaklandnet.com, and/or call at (510) 238-6840 to let them know the shelter is different from other city agencies, in caring for HUNDREDS of animals each day, and needs special accommodation during the mandated Oakland shut-down days!
Talking points for your email/phone calls as to why the shelter needs special exemption for closure from 12/26 thru 1/2: Talking Points
TWO
We need to protect Point Isabel from developers who want to put a shopping center there. The final chance for public input is this Tuesday December 16 at the City Council meeting, at 1401 Marina Way South in Richmond Annex or Richmond. For more information see the Point Isabel Newsletter or contact PIDO via email at m22257m@yahoo.com or 5150-559-8362.
URGENT San Leandro Dog Parks In Trouble
By Karen Holzmeister - The Daily Review
12/10/2008
SAN LEANDRO — The City Council is backing offfrom its consideration of San Leandro'sfirst dog park, a decision that has canine lovers yapping mad and determined togather more support.
General park dedication fees paid by developers,which might have been a potential funding source for the dog park, couldinstead be used for projects at other parks, or even for upgrading policeheadquarters on East 14th Street,council members suggested Tuesday.
"This economy is in desperate straits, if you don't know it,"Mayor Tony Santos told six dog-park backers Tuesday during the council'sFacilities and Transportation Committee meeting. He suggested the city use thefees — the park dedication fund currently has $700,000 — for "desperatelyneeded" equipment and structural improvements in the police building.
Dog lovers pledged to fight for a dog park at the San Leandro Marina. AndPeggy Combs, vice chairwoman of the Recreation and Park Commission, said theconcept of a dog park has been "unanimously embraced by thecommunity."
"This is just the tip of the iceberg," park advocate SabrinaAlmazan said after Santos complained he is fielding 10 to 25 e-mails a day —and four phone calls on Monday alone — from dog owners.
"We represent a huge population of dog owners," added Almazan, amember of the Four Paws Society, which has gathered 1,100 signatures on apetition for a dog park at the San Leandro Marina.
"We will gather more support, and (demonstrate the) need for a dogpark," Almazan told Santosand the two other committee members, councilwomen Diana Souza and JoyceStarosciak. "You are our elected officials; they are yourconstituents."
Four Paws and the Recreation and Park Commission, the latter acouncil-appointed advisory group, have spent 18 months studying the dog parkissue. In September, commissioners asked the council to spend $491,000 for a1.3-acre linear park on the shoreline.
It had been assumed that the money would come from park dedication fees,paid by builders in lieu of land dedication, and traditionally used for newpark or recreation developments.
On Tuesday, council members and city administrators said the city attorneyis reviewing the park dedication fee ordinance to see if the money can be usedfor existing facilities.
The attorney's opinion will be available at the committee's next meeting inJanuary. Starosciak also asked that a list of citywide capital projects beavailable by that meeting so that the committee — and, eventually, the entirecouncil — can prioritize projects for all sources of funding.
©2008 Bay Area News Group
spacer (1K)
For more information on the Dog Park Recommendation, Plans, Facts and Articles...
And, to Volunteer...
visit: www.FourPawsSociety.org
or contact:
Sabrina@FourPawsSociety.org or (510) 909-2163
ONE We need to convince the City of Oakland that closing the shelter for ten days is not an option for saving money
.
Please send an urgent email to Dan Lindheim, Budget Director at the Mayor's Office at dlindheim@oaklandnet.com, and/or call at (510) 238-6840 to let them know the shelter is different from other city agencies, in caring for HUNDREDS of animals each day, and needs special accommodation during the mandated Oakland shut-down days!
Talking points for your email/phone calls as to why the shelter needs special exemption for closure from 12/26 thru 1/2: Talking Points
TWO
We need to protect Point Isabel from developers who want to put a shopping center there. The final chance for public input is this Tuesday December 16 at the City Council meeting, at 1401 Marina Way South in Richmond Annex or Richmond. For more information see the Point Isabel Newsletter or contact PIDO via email at m22257m@yahoo.com or 5150-559-8362.
URGENT San Leandro Dog Parks In Trouble
By Karen Holzmeister - The Daily Review
12/10/2008
SAN LEANDRO — The City Council is backing offfrom its consideration of San Leandro'sfirst dog park, a decision that has canine lovers yapping mad and determined togather more support.
General park dedication fees paid by developers,which might have been a potential funding source for the dog park, couldinstead be used for projects at other parks, or even for upgrading policeheadquarters on East 14th Street,council members suggested Tuesday.
"This economy is in desperate straits, if you don't know it,"Mayor Tony Santos told six dog-park backers Tuesday during the council'sFacilities and Transportation Committee meeting. He suggested the city use thefees — the park dedication fund currently has $700,000 — for "desperatelyneeded" equipment and structural improvements in the police building.
Dog lovers pledged to fight for a dog park at the San Leandro Marina. AndPeggy Combs, vice chairwoman of the Recreation and Park Commission, said theconcept of a dog park has been "unanimously embraced by thecommunity."
"This is just the tip of the iceberg," park advocate SabrinaAlmazan said after Santos complained he is fielding 10 to 25 e-mails a day —and four phone calls on Monday alone — from dog owners.
"We represent a huge population of dog owners," added Almazan, amember of the Four Paws Society, which has gathered 1,100 signatures on apetition for a dog park at the San Leandro Marina.
"We will gather more support, and (demonstrate the) need for a dogpark," Almazan told Santosand the two other committee members, councilwomen Diana Souza and JoyceStarosciak. "You are our elected officials; they are yourconstituents."
Four Paws and the Recreation and Park Commission, the latter acouncil-appointed advisory group, have spent 18 months studying the dog parkissue. In September, commissioners asked the council to spend $491,000 for a1.3-acre linear park on the shoreline.
It had been assumed that the money would come from park dedication fees,paid by builders in lieu of land dedication, and traditionally used for newpark or recreation developments.
On Tuesday, council members and city administrators said the city attorneyis reviewing the park dedication fee ordinance to see if the money can be usedfor existing facilities.
The attorney's opinion will be available at the committee's next meeting inJanuary. Starosciak also asked that a list of citywide capital projects beavailable by that meeting so that the committee — and, eventually, the entirecouncil — can prioritize projects for all sources of funding.
©2008 Bay Area News Group
spacer (1K)
For more information on the Dog Park Recommendation, Plans, Facts and Articles...
And, to Volunteer...
visit: www.FourPawsSociety.org
or contact:
Sabrina@FourPawsSociety.org or (510) 909-2163
Tuesday, December 9, 2008
Video: Two kitties on a treadmill
This is so cute and funny - I think I laughed through the entire thing! :)
http://www.dailymotion.com/video/x5ezit_deux-chats-sur-un-tapis-roulant_animals
http://www.dailymotion.com/video/x5ezit_deux-chats-sur-un-tapis-roulant_animals
Monday, December 8, 2008
Watch video 'The Foaling Process' online Dec 15th
December 15
FREE Web cast Online with Dr. Kathy Anderson on "The Foaling Process," Tuesday, Dec. 15; 7:00 p.m.
So your mare is going to have a foal this spring! Mare owners can be very anxious as foaling time approaches and the more prepared they are, the less stressful having a foal can be. It is important to understand and recognize the signs of a mare getting close to foaling. Decisions also need to be made on where she will foal. This presentation will help owners recognize the signs of a mare preparing for parturition, suggestions on foaling locations and what to expect during a normal foaling plus caution signs to watch for. Furthermore, how to care for the mare after foaling will also be addressed.
For more information, e-mail My Horse University at info@myhorseuniversity.com or call (517) 353-3123.
FREE Web cast Online with Dr. Kathy Anderson on "The Foaling Process," Tuesday, Dec. 15; 7:00 p.m.
So your mare is going to have a foal this spring! Mare owners can be very anxious as foaling time approaches and the more prepared they are, the less stressful having a foal can be. It is important to understand and recognize the signs of a mare getting close to foaling. Decisions also need to be made on where she will foal. This presentation will help owners recognize the signs of a mare preparing for parturition, suggestions on foaling locations and what to expect during a normal foaling plus caution signs to watch for. Furthermore, how to care for the mare after foaling will also be addressed.
For more information, e-mail My Horse University at info@myhorseuniversity.com or call (517) 353-3123.
*If you love horses, please take this survey! Huge problem of UNWANTED horses :(
Unwanted Horse Coalition Survey
You are likely aware of the problem of thousands of unwanted and abandoned horses in the United States. Some say the problem is an epidemic, however, much remains unknown. The first step toward a solution is to gather and examine the facts.
Your help is needed.The Unwanted Horse Coalition (UHC) is launching a nationwide survey of the problem and is asking for participation from horse owners, equine associations, veterinarians, breeders, state and local law enforcement and rescue groups. The goal is to hear from everyone interested in the welfare of horses, which is why your support is needed.
What you can do personally. Please take the UHC national online survey by going online at http://survey.ictgroup.com/uhcsurvey/. Your answers will be confidential.
You are likely aware of the problem of thousands of unwanted and abandoned horses in the United States. Some say the problem is an epidemic, however, much remains unknown. The first step toward a solution is to gather and examine the facts.
Your help is needed.The Unwanted Horse Coalition (UHC) is launching a nationwide survey of the problem and is asking for participation from horse owners, equine associations, veterinarians, breeders, state and local law enforcement and rescue groups. The goal is to hear from everyone interested in the welfare of horses, which is why your support is needed.
What you can do personally. Please take the UHC national online survey by going online at http://survey.ictgroup.com/uhcsurvey/. Your answers will be confidential.
Tip: Traveling with your Horse(s)
*This article is taken from USRider online - link in title.
Lexington, Ky. (Nov. 18, 2008) – With the change of seasons, USRider, the national provider of roadside emergency assistance for equestrians, reminds those who travel with horse to be careful when traveling and to invest time doing routine preventive trailer maintenance to enhance their travel safety
“While trailering horses in the winter is not all that different from trailering any time of the year, you do need to make a few adjustments for hauling in cold weather,” said equine travel expert Neva Kittrell Scheve.
She added that during anytime of the year – regardless of temperatures – the basic rules apply:
* Make sure your trailer is safe.
* Drive carefully.
* Make sure the horse’s inoculations are up-to-date.
* Carry a current health certificate and certificate of negative EIA if crossing state lines.
* Wrap all four legs with shipping wraps or boots.
* Carry an emergency first aid kit and know how to use it.
* Learn to monitor vital signs of the horse.
* Carry backup supplies appropriate to the length of the trip.
* Carry emergency contact numbers for yourself and your horses and keep in a visible place.
* Carry a truck/car emergency kit. During the winter months, be sure the kit includes a shovel, sand, red flag, horse blankets, human blankets, candle, matches or lighter, and tire chains.
It’s also prudent to have a first-rate roadside assistance program to help in the event of an emergency.
“A good roadside assistance program is something all horse owners should have but hope they will never have to use,” says Mark Cole, managing member for USRider. “To that end, our mission is to continually educate horse owners about trailering safety.”
It is very important to make sure your vehicle is ready for winter driving. Be sure to maintain your vehicle according to the manufacturer’s service schedule. It’s also important to take your vehicle to a trusted mechanic.
“When it comes to vehicle maintenance, especially heavy-duty vehicles towing precious cargo, it is better to be proactive that reactive when it comes to vehicle maintenance,” said Cole. “If you have not already done so, the time to establish a relationship with a trusted ASE (www.ase.com) mechanic is before your vehicle breaks down on the side of the highway while towing your horse trailer.”
USRider recommends that you check tire pressure before each trip. This is especially important with temperature changes. If you are traveling from a warm climate to a cold climate, air pressure in your tires will drop. On the other hand, when traveling from a cold climate into a warm climate, the air pressure will rise.
The main reason for disablements is early tire failure (blowout) from temperature build-up from tires that are under inflated. So, be sure to invest in a high-quality pressure gauge and learn how to use it. Check the owner’s manual for the proper tire pressure for your passenger or tow vehicle. The proper tire pressure for your trailer should be stamped on the trailer tire, or contact the trailer manufacturer for that information.
A weak battery will usually reveal itself during cold weather. So, if your battery is more than a couple of years old, be sure to check it prior to cold weather setting in. Otherwise, you will most likely be inconvenienced on some cold morning when the battery fails to start your vehicle.
When driving, a good rule of thumb to follow on the road is “Rain, ice & snow – take it slow.” Before setting out on a trip, be sure to check weather reports and plan accordingly. Be sure to allow extra time for inclement weather. Mother Nature doesn’t care that you need to be somewhere at a certain time.
Keep in mind that weather and driving conditions can change rapidly, so be aware of changing conditions, and drive for the conditions.
It’s important to look ahead to keep track of the driving conditions in front of you. Actions by other drivers can alert you to problems and give you time to react. Always be on the lookout for black ice, as ice that forms on highways that may not always be visible.
“Don’t be susceptible to the false security of four-wheel drive, cautions Cole. “While four-wheel drive may help you go, it won’t help you stop.”
Always drive with your headlights on during inclement weather -– even if it is not dark. USRider recommends that horse owners drive with headlights on anytime when trailering horses, regardless of weather, because of increased visibility afforded by using headlights.
Also during inclement weather, be sure to increase distance between vehicles to allow more stopping room. USRider recommends that you double the normal distance between vehicles when towing a horse trailer.
“Stopping on snow or ice without skidding and/or jackknifing takes extra distance. Use brakes very gently to avoid skidding,” added Cole. “If you begin to skid or jackknife, ease up on the brake and steer into the skid to regain control.”
To help maintain control when roads could be slick, slow down when approaching curves, ramps, bridges and interchanges and avoid abrupt actions, such as quick lane changes, braking and accelerating. Another important way to help maintain control over your vehicle is to avoid using cruise control on wet roads.
During winter months, traction tires are recommended. In order to qualify as a traction tire, tires must have at least an eighth of an inch of tread and be labeled Mud and Snow, M+S, All-Season, or have a Mountain/Snowflake symbol. Since tire performance can vary, a trusted area dealer may be able to advise you on the best tires for your vehicle.
In some states, vehicles over 10,000 gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR), including some passenger trucks, SUVs, RVs, and vehicles towing trailers, must carry chains November 1 through March 31, on certain highways. Check with the Department of Transportation or Department of Motor Vehicles for information on the states you will be traveling.
One of the most confusing decisions when trailering in the cold weather is whether to blanket your horse, said Scheve. Horses are very comfortable in cold conditions, and most will travel very well during the winter. Two important factors should be considered when deciding making this decision, according to the equine travel expert:
1. The trailer should be well ventilated because horses are prone to respiratory illness. A trailer that is not properly ventilated becomes filled with toxic air from the hay dust, shavings and any gases from urine and manure. The body heat produced by the horses also builds up inside the trailer.
2. Be sure to keep the horse hydrated in the summer as well as during the winter. Dehydration is the most common cause of colic. Horses can become dehydrated even during the winter if they do not drink or they lose water through perspiration. If a horse is dressed too warmly, it will tend to lose more fluids than it should.
Be sure to dress the horse according to the situation. If the horse has a full winter coat and does well in daily life, it will not need a blanket for the trailer trip. In this case, open the roof vents and a few windows in the back so the air does not blow directly on the horse. If you have a stock trailer that does not have windows that close, a light sheet can protect the horse from the wind. If the horse is body clipped or does not have a heavy coat, it should wear the same weight blanket that it would normally wear, and vents and windows should be open.
Long-distance trips require a little more preparation. Be ready for driving through different temperatures. Pack blankets of different weights so you can change them as the weather changes during travel. Be sure the horse does not sweat too much. It could get wet and get chilled. Also, the horse can lose water through sweat and become dehydrated.
Take extra precaution when snow removal equipment is being used on the roads. In some cases, the snowplow operator’s vision may be reduced. Give them plenty of room. Stay at least 200 feet behind. While snow and ice removal differ from state-to-state, most will clear roads as follows:
1. Initial areas at most risk – hills, curves, ramps, bridges and interchanges
2. When clearing roads, crews will clear far right lanes first
Since it’s difficult to know what road conditions you may encounter during the winter, make it a practice to re-fuel when your vehicle when your fuel gauge drops below the halfway mark. In many states, you can dial 5-1-1 for travel conditions and road closures.
To provide a reliable and accessible source of information about trailering safety, USRider maintains an Equine Trailer Safety Area on its website, www.usrider.org. The safety information is developed with input from Neva Kittrell Scheve.
“We have carefully developed this area to be a resource with helpful and practical topics – all free and available to members and non-members alike,” added Cole. “Our website is designed so visitors can print out information as a handy reference. We also post safety bulletins as new information is developed.”
Examples of the information available at www.usrider.org include a list of items every horse trailer should have on board, short trip and long trip precautions, and trailer inspection procedures.
USRider provides roadside assistance and towing services along with other travel-related benefits to its members through the Equestrian Motor Plan. It includes standard features such as flat-tire repair, battery assistance and lockout services, plus towing up to 100 miles and roadside repairs for tow vehicles and trailers with horses, emergency stabling, veterinary referrals and more. For more information about the USRider Equestrian Motor Plan, visit www.usrider.org online or call 1-800-844-1409.
For additional safety tips, visit the Equine Travel Safety Area on the USRider website at www.usrider.org.
Lexington, Ky. (Nov. 18, 2008) – With the change of seasons, USRider, the national provider of roadside emergency assistance for equestrians, reminds those who travel with horse to be careful when traveling and to invest time doing routine preventive trailer maintenance to enhance their travel safety
“While trailering horses in the winter is not all that different from trailering any time of the year, you do need to make a few adjustments for hauling in cold weather,” said equine travel expert Neva Kittrell Scheve.
She added that during anytime of the year – regardless of temperatures – the basic rules apply:
* Make sure your trailer is safe.
* Drive carefully.
* Make sure the horse’s inoculations are up-to-date.
* Carry a current health certificate and certificate of negative EIA if crossing state lines.
* Wrap all four legs with shipping wraps or boots.
* Carry an emergency first aid kit and know how to use it.
* Learn to monitor vital signs of the horse.
* Carry backup supplies appropriate to the length of the trip.
* Carry emergency contact numbers for yourself and your horses and keep in a visible place.
* Carry a truck/car emergency kit. During the winter months, be sure the kit includes a shovel, sand, red flag, horse blankets, human blankets, candle, matches or lighter, and tire chains.
It’s also prudent to have a first-rate roadside assistance program to help in the event of an emergency.
“A good roadside assistance program is something all horse owners should have but hope they will never have to use,” says Mark Cole, managing member for USRider. “To that end, our mission is to continually educate horse owners about trailering safety.”
It is very important to make sure your vehicle is ready for winter driving. Be sure to maintain your vehicle according to the manufacturer’s service schedule. It’s also important to take your vehicle to a trusted mechanic.
“When it comes to vehicle maintenance, especially heavy-duty vehicles towing precious cargo, it is better to be proactive that reactive when it comes to vehicle maintenance,” said Cole. “If you have not already done so, the time to establish a relationship with a trusted ASE (www.ase.com) mechanic is before your vehicle breaks down on the side of the highway while towing your horse trailer.”
USRider recommends that you check tire pressure before each trip. This is especially important with temperature changes. If you are traveling from a warm climate to a cold climate, air pressure in your tires will drop. On the other hand, when traveling from a cold climate into a warm climate, the air pressure will rise.
The main reason for disablements is early tire failure (blowout) from temperature build-up from tires that are under inflated. So, be sure to invest in a high-quality pressure gauge and learn how to use it. Check the owner’s manual for the proper tire pressure for your passenger or tow vehicle. The proper tire pressure for your trailer should be stamped on the trailer tire, or contact the trailer manufacturer for that information.
A weak battery will usually reveal itself during cold weather. So, if your battery is more than a couple of years old, be sure to check it prior to cold weather setting in. Otherwise, you will most likely be inconvenienced on some cold morning when the battery fails to start your vehicle.
When driving, a good rule of thumb to follow on the road is “Rain, ice & snow – take it slow.” Before setting out on a trip, be sure to check weather reports and plan accordingly. Be sure to allow extra time for inclement weather. Mother Nature doesn’t care that you need to be somewhere at a certain time.
Keep in mind that weather and driving conditions can change rapidly, so be aware of changing conditions, and drive for the conditions.
It’s important to look ahead to keep track of the driving conditions in front of you. Actions by other drivers can alert you to problems and give you time to react. Always be on the lookout for black ice, as ice that forms on highways that may not always be visible.
“Don’t be susceptible to the false security of four-wheel drive, cautions Cole. “While four-wheel drive may help you go, it won’t help you stop.”
Always drive with your headlights on during inclement weather -– even if it is not dark. USRider recommends that horse owners drive with headlights on anytime when trailering horses, regardless of weather, because of increased visibility afforded by using headlights.
Also during inclement weather, be sure to increase distance between vehicles to allow more stopping room. USRider recommends that you double the normal distance between vehicles when towing a horse trailer.
“Stopping on snow or ice without skidding and/or jackknifing takes extra distance. Use brakes very gently to avoid skidding,” added Cole. “If you begin to skid or jackknife, ease up on the brake and steer into the skid to regain control.”
To help maintain control when roads could be slick, slow down when approaching curves, ramps, bridges and interchanges and avoid abrupt actions, such as quick lane changes, braking and accelerating. Another important way to help maintain control over your vehicle is to avoid using cruise control on wet roads.
During winter months, traction tires are recommended. In order to qualify as a traction tire, tires must have at least an eighth of an inch of tread and be labeled Mud and Snow, M+S, All-Season, or have a Mountain/Snowflake symbol. Since tire performance can vary, a trusted area dealer may be able to advise you on the best tires for your vehicle.
In some states, vehicles over 10,000 gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR), including some passenger trucks, SUVs, RVs, and vehicles towing trailers, must carry chains November 1 through March 31, on certain highways. Check with the Department of Transportation or Department of Motor Vehicles for information on the states you will be traveling.
One of the most confusing decisions when trailering in the cold weather is whether to blanket your horse, said Scheve. Horses are very comfortable in cold conditions, and most will travel very well during the winter. Two important factors should be considered when deciding making this decision, according to the equine travel expert:
1. The trailer should be well ventilated because horses are prone to respiratory illness. A trailer that is not properly ventilated becomes filled with toxic air from the hay dust, shavings and any gases from urine and manure. The body heat produced by the horses also builds up inside the trailer.
2. Be sure to keep the horse hydrated in the summer as well as during the winter. Dehydration is the most common cause of colic. Horses can become dehydrated even during the winter if they do not drink or they lose water through perspiration. If a horse is dressed too warmly, it will tend to lose more fluids than it should.
Be sure to dress the horse according to the situation. If the horse has a full winter coat and does well in daily life, it will not need a blanket for the trailer trip. In this case, open the roof vents and a few windows in the back so the air does not blow directly on the horse. If you have a stock trailer that does not have windows that close, a light sheet can protect the horse from the wind. If the horse is body clipped or does not have a heavy coat, it should wear the same weight blanket that it would normally wear, and vents and windows should be open.
Long-distance trips require a little more preparation. Be ready for driving through different temperatures. Pack blankets of different weights so you can change them as the weather changes during travel. Be sure the horse does not sweat too much. It could get wet and get chilled. Also, the horse can lose water through sweat and become dehydrated.
Take extra precaution when snow removal equipment is being used on the roads. In some cases, the snowplow operator’s vision may be reduced. Give them plenty of room. Stay at least 200 feet behind. While snow and ice removal differ from state-to-state, most will clear roads as follows:
1. Initial areas at most risk – hills, curves, ramps, bridges and interchanges
2. When clearing roads, crews will clear far right lanes first
Since it’s difficult to know what road conditions you may encounter during the winter, make it a practice to re-fuel when your vehicle when your fuel gauge drops below the halfway mark. In many states, you can dial 5-1-1 for travel conditions and road closures.
To provide a reliable and accessible source of information about trailering safety, USRider maintains an Equine Trailer Safety Area on its website, www.usrider.org. The safety information is developed with input from Neva Kittrell Scheve.
“We have carefully developed this area to be a resource with helpful and practical topics – all free and available to members and non-members alike,” added Cole. “Our website is designed so visitors can print out information as a handy reference. We also post safety bulletins as new information is developed.”
Examples of the information available at www.usrider.org include a list of items every horse trailer should have on board, short trip and long trip precautions, and trailer inspection procedures.
USRider provides roadside assistance and towing services along with other travel-related benefits to its members through the Equestrian Motor Plan. It includes standard features such as flat-tire repair, battery assistance and lockout services, plus towing up to 100 miles and roadside repairs for tow vehicles and trailers with horses, emergency stabling, veterinary referrals and more. For more information about the USRider Equestrian Motor Plan, visit www.usrider.org online or call 1-800-844-1409.
For additional safety tips, visit the Equine Travel Safety Area on the USRider website at www.usrider.org.
Saturday, December 6, 2008
Event: Candy Canes for Horses - Kids event in St Helens
Sunrise Stables and Sunrise Horse Rescue offer a free special event in December. The public is invited to Say Happy Holidays To The Animal Kingdom at Sunrise’s fourth annual Candy Canes For Ponies event from 12:00 – 2:00 p.m. on December 24 at 1098 Lodi Lane (a cross road between Hwy. 29 and the Silverado Trail just north of St. Helena).
Want a non-commercial activity for the family? Come feed the rescued horses and share some love! There is no charge and no RSVPs needed. Parents are encouraged to come ready to take photos; the horses will be wearing holiday attire. Each horse will have a display with the story of how he or she was rescued. Please note: if it’s raining, this event will not take place.
Bordered by vineyards and blackberry hedges, Sunrise Stables is a unique riding school in a picturesque country setting and is home to Sunrise Horse Rescue, Napa County’s only non-profit rescue organization for horses.
Sunrise Stables will be offering holiday day camps for children this winter: call Tracee Beebe at 337-5582 for dates and times.
Sunrise Stables celebrated its fifth anniversary this year. Locals Tracee and Mark Beebe teach students of all ages and ability with an assortment of horses of different breeds. Sunrise can also customize experiences for children.
To get more information about Sunrise Stables and its programs, contact Tracee at 707/337-5582 or visit the website at www.srshorsesnapavalley.com. To learn more about Sunrise Horse Rescue, visit www.sunrisehorserescue.org. Volunteers and donations are always welcome; currently Sunrise Horse Rescue shelters 9 rescued horses: Pippin (Welsh mountain pony), Big Guy (Belgian warmblood), Mo (walkaloosa), Captain (Icelandic pony), Bella (thoroughbred), Apricot (quarter-pony), Rain (Polish-Arabian), Aragon (Morgan) and Wall-E (Morgan).
Want a non-commercial activity for the family? Come feed the rescued horses and share some love! There is no charge and no RSVPs needed. Parents are encouraged to come ready to take photos; the horses will be wearing holiday attire. Each horse will have a display with the story of how he or she was rescued. Please note: if it’s raining, this event will not take place.
Bordered by vineyards and blackberry hedges, Sunrise Stables is a unique riding school in a picturesque country setting and is home to Sunrise Horse Rescue, Napa County’s only non-profit rescue organization for horses.
Sunrise Stables will be offering holiday day camps for children this winter: call Tracee Beebe at 337-5582 for dates and times.
Sunrise Stables celebrated its fifth anniversary this year. Locals Tracee and Mark Beebe teach students of all ages and ability with an assortment of horses of different breeds. Sunrise can also customize experiences for children.
To get more information about Sunrise Stables and its programs, contact Tracee at 707/337-5582 or visit the website at www.srshorsesnapavalley.com. To learn more about Sunrise Horse Rescue, visit www.sunrisehorserescue.org. Volunteers and donations are always welcome; currently Sunrise Horse Rescue shelters 9 rescued horses: Pippin (Welsh mountain pony), Big Guy (Belgian warmblood), Mo (walkaloosa), Captain (Icelandic pony), Bella (thoroughbred), Apricot (quarter-pony), Rain (Polish-Arabian), Aragon (Morgan) and Wall-E (Morgan).
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