Archive for the ‘Blog’ Category
Good for You, Good for Your Dog!
Thursday, January 31st, 2013In honor of February being Responsible Pet Owner’s month, Pet Sitters Club is proud to Introduce “Good for You, Good For Your Dog” series. Over the next two weeks we will be posting on FaceBook and Twitter a series of posts that will highlight items in your kitchen and cupboard you can safely share with your dog. Of course all changes in your dog’s diet should be done gradually and with prior consultation with your vet.
However if you can’t wait, that’s fine. For our loyal blog readers we have posted the full list here:
Recall Alert: Waggin’ Train & Canyon Creek Ranch Chicken Jerky Treats
Thursday, January 10th, 2013From the Waggin Train website:
Nestlé Purina PetCare Company to voluntarily withdraw Waggin’ Train®
and Canyon Creek Ranch® brand dog treat productsSt. Louis, Missouri, January 9, 2013 . . . Nestlé Purina PetCare Company and its wholly owned subsidiary Waggin’ Train, LLC today announced it is voluntarily withdrawing its Waggin’ Train and Canyon Creek Ranch brand dog treats sold in the United States until further notice.
The Company is taking this action after learning this week that the New York State Department of Agriculture & Markets (NYSDAM) found trace amounts of antibiotic residue in samples of Waggin’ Train and Canyon Creek Ranch chicken jerky products. These antibiotics are approved for use in poultry in China and other major countries, including European Union member states, but are not among those approved in the U.S. Antibiotics are commonly used globally, including in the United States, when raising animals fit for human consumption. Waggin’ Train and Canyon Creek Ranch products are safe to feed as directed. However, due to regulatory inconsistencies among countries, the presence of antibiotic residue is technically considered an adulteration in the United States. This finding does not pose a safety risk to pets.
New York State authorities initially requested that the Company remove Waggin’ Train and Canyon Creek Ranch chicken jerky treats from retail locations in the state of New York, which we have agreed to do. In addition, because of the differences in U.S. and Chinese regulations, Nestlé Purina decided to conduct a nationwide voluntary withdrawal.
“All of us at Waggin’ Train care deeply about pets and their owners, and the quality of our products is of the utmost importance,” said Nina Leigh Krueger, President, Waggin’ Train LLC. “Waggin’ Train has served millions of pets and their owners very well. In the final analysis, our Company and our loyal consumers must have total confidence in the products we sell and feed our pets. Once we understand and determine how to comply with the technicalities of different regulatory frameworks, we will work with all appropriate parties to define the best way to supply the market.”
Nestlé Purina contacted the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regarding NYSDAM’s findings. There is no indication that the trace amounts of antibiotic residue are linked to the FDA’s ongoing investigation of chicken jerky products. The trace amounts of antibiotic residue (in the parts-per-billion range) do not pose a health or pet safety risk.
No other Purina treats or pet food products are affected by this withdrawal. In addition, Canyon Creek Ranch dog and cat foods, which are manufactured in the United States, are not included in this withdrawal.
For product refund or more information call our Office of Consumer Affairs at 1-800-982-0704 or go to www.waggintrainbrand.com
Local couple holds charity drive for pets after Sandy
Saturday, December 1st, 2012Originally published: November 30 2012
By Dan Glaun. Great Neck News
Vol. 72, No. 48
For a scan of the original article Click Here
RAINING CATS AND DOGS
PHOTO BY NAOMI GARFINKEL Maya Garfinkel of Thomaston with one of the many kittens up for adoption at the Animal Lovers League of Glen Cove. The shelter took in over 25 animals in the wake of Hurricane Sandy. |
Naomi and James Garfinkel, owners of the Pet Sitters Club, organized a relief drive for the Animal Lovers League of Glen Cove |
|
| Amidst the human cost of Hurricane Sandy, Nassau County’s smaller; furrier residents suffered as well – and one Great Neck couple decided to make a difference.Naomi and James Garfinkel, the owners of pet-care business the Pet Sitters Club, organized a relief drive for the region’s animals that were affected by the storm.
“We were hearing about a tremendous need – phone, letters, Facebook – of animals in shelters,” said Naomi Garfinkel. “From a flooding standpoint, we thought there was something we could do personally. On Nov. 17, the Garfinkels sent out messages to their customers asking for their contributions – for the crates, bedding, pet food and monetary donations needed to help support shelters stretched thin by the number of cats and dogs left homeless by Sandy. A week later, they delivered two truckloads of supplies to the Animal Lovers League of Glen Cove.”The response was incredible,” Garfinkel said. Joan Phillips, the president of the Animal Lovers League, said the donation was a much needed gesture for the shelter, which she said took in an additional 27 animals because of the storm. |
“I was absolutely thrilled,” she said. “I was touched and I thought it was absolutely wonderful.”
The shelter, powered by a gas generator, stayed open and heated throughout the hurricane, Phillips said, and took in animals ranging from injured strays to pets whose owners had to seek alternative housing due to storm damage. The strain on the shelter’s resources was considerable, she said – pets had to be fed and strays had to be given vaccinations. “Our resources our towels, our blankets, our beds, everything – were being used,” said Phillips.All the pets dropped off by displaced families in the storm’s aftermath have since been reunited with their owners, according to Phillips, but the shelter is still caring for strays rescued during Sandy. And the Garfinkels efforts are continuing. “We have decided to continue collecting and will likely benefit another shelter, not just Glen Cove Animals League,” Garfinkel said. The Pet Sitters Club is collecting blankets and towels, crates, dog and cat food or treats and pet toys, and is offering to pick up donations; they can be reached at petsit4u@petsit4u.com, or by phone at 516 466 5617. Pets Boutique in Manhasset is also a drop off location for contributions. |
|
The Effects of Hurricane Sandy on Pets and How you can Help
Saturday, November 24th, 2012The Effects of Hurricane Sandy on Pets and How you can Help
Hurricane Sandy was not only destructive for humans but for animals as well. Many pets across Long Island were evacuated and are staying in shelters temporarily or were surrendered permanently by their parents. In the event of an emergency we prepare for our loved ones safety. This should include our pets as well! Below are some tips to make things easier in the event of an emergency.
Before the Storm
It’s a good idea to have plenty of food and water for your pet in case you can’t get to the store for a few days. Be sure to have bowls, leashes, towels, litter, carriers, and any medications as well. It is also important to have your pet’s most recent medical information at home (vaccination history, prescription information etc.). Having coats and sweaters handy for warmth is a good idea not only for outdoor protection but should you lose power and heat.
During the Storm
If your pet gets anxious during a storm it is a good idea to stay with them to keep them calm. Be sure all windows and doors are secure so your pet can’t escape into the storm. Do not tranquilize your pets – they will need their survival instincts should the storm require that.
After the Storm
Make sure the storm has passed and you assess any damages before letting your dog outside. Keep dogs leashed – displaced objects and fallen trees can disorient pets and sharp debris can hurt them. They may need time to become re-oriented when familiar scents and landmarks are altered. Be sure to keep them away from downed power lines and water that may be contaminated.
Uncertainty and change in the environment affects animals too. Your pet’s behavior may change after a crisis, becoming more aggressive or self-protective. Be aware of this behavior and keep more room between them and other animals, children and strangers. Comfort your pet with lots praise.
Shelter Information
Fortunately there are resources in place for those in our area who are in need. The North Shore Animal League has currently set up a temporary shelter. There are approximately 100 cats, 100 dogs, and a variety of birds, turtles, rabbits, and even fish being housed at the Mitchel Field Gymnasium. This service was free of charge and provided food, shelter and medical care for as long as needed. People can drop off animals throughout the month of November – at which point the animals may be moved to a different location. They will always be safe and eventually reunited with their owners (none of the animals are up for adoption). Many pet owners are staying directly across the street at Nassau Community College and can visit with their pets regularly.
There have been many happy stories of pets being reunited with their owners! However some reunions may take a little longer. You can help by donating blankets, towels, and toys to many of the local shelters.
Pet Sitters Club has been running a drive to collect much needed items and supplies to distribute to local shelters in need. Many shelters are still in need of foster homes for pets at the shelter, supplies such as food & crates and monetary donations. Check out the Nassau County SPCA website www.nassaucountyspca.gov to see some of the listed shelters that are in need of donations.
Priority Total Pet Care Dog Treats Recall
Saturday, November 24th, 2012Priority Total Pet Care Dog Treats Recall
November 20, 2012 – Carolina Prime Pet, Inc. has announced it is voluntarily recalling certain lots of its Priority Total Pet Care All Natural Bullstrips dog treats because they may be contaminated with Salmonella.
The event was reported by the US FDA in a news release dated November 20, 2012.
According to the company, there have been no reported illnesses related to these products.
The affected products were sold in Safeway Stores in Arizona, California, Colorado, Delaware, Hawaii, Maryland, Nebraska, Nevada, New Mexico, South Dakota, Virginia, Washington DC and Wyoming.
The recalled products were also sold at Vons, Pavilions and Pak ‘N Save stores in California; Randalls and Tom Thumb stores in Texas; Genuardi’s stores in Pennsylvania and New Jersey, and Dominick’s stores in Illinois.
They were distributed from about the first of September until the present.
For the full the full article at DogFoodAdvisor.com Click Here
PROTECT YOUR PETS DURING HURRICANE SANDY
Friday, October 26th, 2012Pet owners should have an emergency plan that includes the safety of their animals. Long Island and NYC are among the areas now considered in Sandy’s forecasted path. Please consider your pets. Try to move any pets indoors during this storm. High winds, heavy rain, falling debris are only of the few possible dangers that we face. NEVER leave your pet chained outside!
If you face evacuation, identify a shelter. For public health reasons, many emergency shelters cannot accept pets. Find out which motels and hotels in your area allow pets — well in advance of needing them. Include your local animal shelter’s number in your list of emergency numbers — they might be able to provide information concerning pets during a disaster.
Check to see which of our local Pet Friendly Shelters are operational.
CREATE A PET EMERGENCY SUPPLY KIT
Use this checklist to help gather everything you may need for your pet. Include:
- at least a 5-7 day supply of pet food and bottled water<
- a 2 week supply of medication with dosage instructions
- a flashlight with extra batteries
- food and water bowls
- a can opener and spoon for canned food, if necessary
- a cage or carrier for smaller animals
- an extra collar, leash or harness for larger animals
- a litter box, litter and a scoop (for cats)
- plastic trash bags, paper towels, soap and bleach (for waste)
- comfort items (such as bedding, toys or pet treats)
- latex glove (for handling waste)
- blanket or sheet to cover cages
- first aid kit
Call your local emergency management office, animal shelter, to get advice and information.
Place a notice outside in a visible area, advising what pets are in the house and where they are located if your pets are left behind. Provide a phone number where you or a contact can be reached as well as the name and number of your vet.
Event To Benefit Animal Cancer Foundation
Friday, September 28th, 2012Event To Benefit Animal Cancer Foundation
Originally published: September 22, 2012
The Great Neck Record
Published by Anton Newspapers
Mushu, the inspiration for the event
Join Pet Sitters Club Inc. along with Cara and James Pressler and the Animal Cancer Foundation (ACF) Board of Directors as they jointly host an evening to benefit ACF. The event will feature raffle prizes, favors and dinner. The funds raised will be used to support ACF’s mission of funding in the research, study, prevention and treatment of cancers that occur in both people and pets. The event will be held on Thursday, Oct 11 from 7 to 10 p.m. at the Northport Yacht Club. Tickets are $90 per person ($44 of which is a tax deductible donation to the Animal Cancer Foundation).
The story of Cara and Mushu is one of love, devotion and the strong bond between humans and animals. In 2010, two weeks before her wedding, Cara was diagnosed with Non~Hodgkins Lymphoma and had to endure a grueling course of treatment. Mushu and James were by her side as she recovered from her treatments and battled the disease. Just over a year later in early 2011 Mushu was sadly diagnosed with cancer.
James and Naomi Garfinkel of Pet Sitters Club, join Cara and James and the ACF board in paying tribute to Mushu through a fundraiser in his honor. For more information about this event or to make a donation please visit https://www.petsitclub.com/acfevent/ or call 466-5617.
Raccoon rabies vaccine packet distribution begins tonight
Tuesday, September 25th, 2012
Raccoon rabies vaccine packet distribution begins tonight.
Beginning today through Oct 19th, the Nassau County Dept of Health will be distributing by truck packets of rabies vaccine for raccoons in suspected raccoon habitats along streets throughout all of Port Washington and Manhasset.
The packet is clearly labeled: “Rabies Vaccine Live Vaccinia Vector. Do Not Disturb, Merial, Inc Us Vet Lic. No. 298 1-877-722-6725.”
The packets are intended to immunize, not kill, raccoons.
Please see additional guidance from NC Dept of Health below.
Thank you,
Peter Forman
Commissioner
Port Washington-Manhasset Office of Emergency Management
The Department of Health recommends:
- To avoid inadvertent contact with the baits, supervise children’s outdoor activities both during and for approximately one week following the bait distribution.
- Call the Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222 immediately in the unlikely event that a child bites through the packet and ingests the liquid, or if there is any human contact with the bait.
- Wash hands immediately before calling to report the exposure if anyone comes in bare-hand contact with the bait (even if the bait is intact.) The bait packet itself will not harm anyone.
- Keep all dogs and cats indoors or on leashes during the oral bait distribution and for about a week afterwards. This will allow raccoons to eat the vaccine-laden baits and become immunized and will decrease the chance of pets eating the baits. Call the Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222 if you have seen your pet with bait in its mouth.
- The baits are not harmful to dogs or cats, but a pet may vomit if they eat a large number of them. Do not try to remove a packet from an animal’s mouth.
- Remember that it is not possible to get rabies from the vaccine. The vaccine does not contain the rabies virus. It does contain attenuated vaccinia virus, a weakened version of the virus.
- If residents find bait near their homes, but not in the open, leave it alone. The bait packets have a strong fishmeal smell that is not attractive to people or to most other animals.
- If the bait is intact and out in the open where pets or children are more likely to encounter it, toss it into deeper cover under trees or bushes while wearing gloves or using a plastic bag.
- Residents who see raccoons should NOT try to trap the raccoons themselves. Call a licensed trapper.
Keeping Fido & Fluffy Safe During the “Dog Days” of Summer
Wednesday, June 6th, 2012Keeping Fido & Fluffy Safe During the “Dog Days” of Summer
When the spring and summer approach, you get the urge to enjoy the great outdoors. What a perfect time to take the dog or dogs out for a jog or nice, long walk. Dogs love all the sights, sound and smell of nature as much as you do. However, when it comes to the heat of summer, there are precautions you should take regarding the health and safety of your pets. (more…)
How Smart Is Your Pooch?
Tuesday, May 22nd, 2012How Smart Is Your Pooch? – Pet Sitters Club
Let’s face it. We all think our pets are the smartest, cutest, and hands down best companions. But how does your pooch rate in the top ten smartest dog breed statistics? Take a quick look below to find out! (more…)
