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Dear Clients and Friends,
 As Easter approaches, many people head downtown to Santee Alley in Los Angeles and many similar locations across the country to pick up palm-sized bunny rabbits, never realizing that the little ones will grow up to be full-sized rabbits and live for up to 15 years. Studies say 95% of all rabbits purchased at Easter are abandoned before their first birthday. A few are turned into shelters, and others are left to fend for themselves in parks. These domesticated pets don't stand a chance; many are eaten by predator animals, or starve to death, or die prematurely of diseases. The problem worsens because these rabbits have not been spayed or neutered. A female rabbit can produce 12 bunnies each 28 days, starting at the age of 3 months. Buying a bunny for Easter is a bad idea!
You Can Make a Difference!
Please share this information with others who are considering getting a pet. By making adoption the first instinct when looking for a new pet you will make a difference.
When you choose to adopt a rabbit (or any pet), you are saving THREE lives:
The bunny that you are taking home
The bunny that now has a space in the shelter
The bunny from a pet mill that was never bred for sale
Click on the image to visit Found Animals.
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What Kind of Dog IS That?
Breed: Gordon Setter. Gordon Setter HistoryThe Gordon hails from Scotland, and his ancient lineage traces back to the early 17th century. Popular among hunters of Scotland, the black-and-tan Setter came into prominence in the kennels of the fourth Duke of Gordon in the early 19th century. Early Gordons were described as "easy to break and naturally back well...not fast dogs, but...good staying powers" and endurance, seldom "making a false point or a sensational stand." Notable for their beauty as well as their bird sense, Gordons were imported to America by George Blunt in 1842, where his popularity soared to the heights enjoyed by the breed overseas. As field-trials became more popular, the Gordon's popularity waned in favor of Pointers and other flashy, fast breeds, but the breed remained unparalleled as a one-man shooting dog. Due to his retentive memory and keen intelligence, the Gordon needed no retraining with each season, making him valuable as a hunting dog since he improves with age. Gordon breeders, backed by a strong national club in the US, make no distinction between field or show types. The Gordon is heavier than the other setters, and distinctive in color (black-and-tan, easily viewed in light fields and early snow). General AppearanceThe Gordon Setter is a good-sized, sturdily built, black and tan dog, well muscled, with plenty of bone and substance, but active, upstanding and stylish, appearing capable of doing a full day's work in the field. He has a strong, rather short back, with well sprung ribs and a short tail. The head is fairly heavy and finely chiseled. His bearing is intelligent, noble, and dignified, showing no signs of shyness or viciousness. Clear colors and straight or slightly waved coat are correct. He suggests strength and stamina rather than extreme speed. Symmetry and quality are most essential. A dog well balanced in all points is preferable to one with outstanding good qualities and defects. A smooth, free movement, with high head carriage, is typical. Gordon Setter Did You Know?- The Gordon Setter's ancient lineage dates back to 1620. - Gordon Setters first started to hunt game birds almost 200 years ago. - The Gordon is known for his devotion and loyalty. - Gordons are the heaviest of the setters, although the standard permits a considerable size range due to differing preferences between field and bench enthusiasts. - Contrary to popular belief, the three setters - English, Gordon, and Irish - are not merely representatives of different colors or varieties within one "setter" heading but are in fact three separate breeds. Click on the above photo of the Gordon Setter to learn more about this breed! Source: American Kennel Club
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Canine Health
New Purdue Bloat Study
Recent studies out of Recent Un are shedding more light on gastric dilatation volvulus (GSV), otherwise known as bloat. GDV is the second leading cause of death in large-breed (50 - 99 pounds) and giant-breed (100 pounds and over) dogs. Approximately one in four large-breed dogs and one in five giant-breed dogs may develop GDV during their lifetime, with some breeds at even higher lifetime risk. GDV strikes suddenly and has a mortality rate as high as 30 percent.
In GDV there is a rapid accumulation of air in the stomach, causing distention and often rotation of the stomach, cutting off blood supply at both ends and causing the dog to go into shock. GDV is an acute emergency and rushing the dog to immediate veterinary care is essential. The risk of a dog developing GDV increases with age. Other factors that increase a dog's risk are having a first-generation relative with a history of GDV, having a deep and narrow chest or abdomen, being thin, experiencing a major health problem before age 1, and having a fearful or nervous temperament.
For the full article including preventative measures and treatment, click on the image above.
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About It's A Dog's Life, LLC
As always, thank you for taking the time to read our monthly newsletter. We love to hear from you! Please feel free to send an email and let us know what's new!
818-726-1132
Van Nuys, California
It's A Dog's Life, llc
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Photo of the Month
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Happy Easter!
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Adoptable Dog of the Month: Travis
Breed: Golden Retriever Mix, Male
Weight: 38lbs
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Sad, happy, sad, that's the story of my life so far. Years ago I got adopted into a wonderful home. However, someone in my family had terrible allergies, so I was brought here after being with them for 3 years! So, after many tears and much heartache, here I am again. The people are very kind to me and this is a nice place but it doesn't compare with living in my own home. I'm sure you can understand this and you'll appreciate why I'm feeling so distraught. I'm full grown and my fur is so soft, you'll love embracing me. I'll love it too! I'm an exceedingly active, good looking critter who's NOT happy living in a kennel run. And, if you're fencing isn't very high, you can add some lattice to make it 7 feet tall and that will stop me from getting out. So, I'm crossing my paws that, after we meet, you'll be inspired to make me a part of your life! Believe me, it won't take much to make me the dog of your dreams and give me the everlasting security I crave.
No Dogs, No Cats, Children (8 years and up), Minimum 7 Foot Fence Required
This dog is currently residing at Pet Orphans of Southern California. Please click on his photo to visit their website.
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