Paws 4 You Rescue
Issue No. 9
February 2009
Special Announcement
RESCUES ROCK the RUNWAY

TORU will be taking their rock inspired apparel collection to the runway as a proud
sponsor of the upcoming Paws 4 You Rescue Spring benefit and fashion show at The Mayfair Hotel & Spa in Coconut Grove at Cabana One.

The new TORU Spring line of "Rescue Wear" will be unveiled at the Show starring Paws 4 You Rescue dogs!

This new line is designed to help promote awareness for rescue groups, adoption and spay/neuter programs nationwide -- 15% of all proceeds from this line are being donated to Paws 4 You Rescue by TORU!

So mark your calendar for this dog friendly event:

March 27, 2009
7-9pm
Cabana One at the Mayfair Hotel & Spa in
Coconut Grove

More details in the March e-newsletter but feel free to email events@paws4you.org for more information.



Toru Logo
Mayfair LogoCabana One Logo




Putting Your Dog on a Diet

Carol and chocolate pups
We always hear people talking about their weight concerns, but if your dog could talk, what would he or she say? 

If your dog's energy is low and he or she doesn't like to play as much as before, perhaps the problem is a weight issue. You may not even notice that your dog is overweight because you are accustomed to seeing your dog at that size.  However, your dog's weight should be a primary lifelong concern and an essential part of their routine health check-up. If you chose to ignore it, you may not only being denying your dog an active and fun lifestyle, but you may also be taking years off of their life.

Naturally, each breed has a normal weight range, which can also vary based on the size of the dog.  For instance, if you have two pugs, but one is a teacup and the other is average sized, the healthy weight range will differ.  If your dog is a mix of a couple of breeds there are some additional signs you can look for to determine if your pet is overweight.  If you look at the shape of your dog, you should be able to see muscles and their rib cage.  If your dog appears to have more of a round shape, it may be time for a diet. Of course, whenever you are in doubt, always ask your vet for their advice.  Your dogs weight should be taken at every vet visit and be monitored closely. If not, specifically tell your vet that your dog's weight is a concern and ask that they make it a part of the routine check-up.

If it does come to your attention that your dog needs to go on a diet, don't feel bad and most certainly don't ignore it.  Most dog owners face this issue at one point or another in the life of their pet.  Just like with our diet, sometimes it's hard to know we overindulged a little too much until we see the results in our body's appearance or weight.  Similarly, if we don't correct the issue, serious health problems will most likely follow. For dogs this means a variety of issues including arthritis, high blood pressure, orthopedic issues, breathing problems, and even diabetes. The good news is that it is preventable.

One of the best things you can do for your dog is put them on a regimented meal plan. Feed your dog at the same time each day whenever possible (this will help promote healthy digestion) and monitor exactly how much food you put in the bowl. For instance, if you have a habit of filling the bowl with food and leaving it for you dog to enjoy at their leisure, it can be difficult to know just how much they really ate on any given day.  Conversely, if you measure how much food you feed your dog at each mealtime, you will better be able to monitor how much is enough food and how much is too much.  If you don't know how much food your dog really needs daily, ask your vet for advice.  Of course, monitoring the amount of food your dog eats won't matter if it's not the right type of food.

As dog owners, we all know how hard it can be to not give into those big sad eyes at mealtime and that may be the hardest challenge to overcome.   The discipline of the dog owner is crucial. Luckily, you can rest assured knowing your dog's palate and stomach will be satisfied. There are a large variety of food options from dry food to canned food to even homemade boiled chicken and brown rice dinners.  Choose the one that your dog seems to enjoy the most and stick with it.  If you want to reward your dog with a treat, stay away from high calorie dog treats and table scraps. Rather search for low fat options such as low fat dog biscuits or carrots. 

As with any weight loss program exercise is just as important as diet.  If your dog is obese slowly introduce a new exercise routine.  The length of exercise time and activity will depend on your dog's physical capabilities but it can still be fun.  Whether it is a daily game of fetch, a walk, or even a run, activities with your dog will not only improve their health, but also your relationship. 

At Paws 4 You Rescue, we strongly suggest that you check with your dog's veterinarian before putting them on any type of diet or exercise plan. The tips given in this article are meant to give you an idea of things to consider when it comes to your dog's weight management. However, always confer with your vet to develop a plan that will fit your dog's specific needs.  

Carol Caridad
President, Paws 4 You Rescue


Thank You!

Thank you Mrs. Vazquez for inviting Paws 4 You Rescue to your event!  Mrs. Vazquez is a teacher at Kendale Lakes Elementary who hosted a concert with her Third Grade Class on February 12. 

The Cat Network and Paws 4 You Rescue were invited because the subject was to address the animal overpopulation in Miami-Dade County.

The HOWL FOR YOUR PAL concert was meant to help educate not only the young students but their parents and the rest of the community too!  Encouragement to adopt instead of buying from a breeder was the theme of he event so there were adoptable cats and dogs in the courtyard before and after the concert - all enjoying the kids' company!

Proceeds from the concert were donated to both organizations to use towards spay and neuter surgery costs.

Lily on the Green

Mrs. Vazquez & Faith    Christie and Frisbee



Announcing our
New Website!

Please visit our re-designed website at www.paws4you.org
-----------
Visit with our dogs every Sunday from
11-3pm at the PetSmart
on
US1 & SW 136th Street
------
786.242.RESQ
info@paws4you.org

-----------
PO Box 561163
Miami, FL 33256-1163


In This Issue
Putting Your Dog on a Diet
Thank You!
New Website Design
BEAGLE MANIA!!!
Join Our Mailing List
BEAGLE MANIA
Adoptable hounds

Aaron
Aaron

Andy
Andy

Angel
Angel

Bandit 3
Bandit

Brittany
Brittany

Charles
Charles

Christie
Christie

Faith
Faith

Fiona
Fiona

Honey Bee
Honey Bee

Johnny
Johnny

Lucky
Lucky

Murray
Murray

Phoebe
Phoebe

Sebastian
Sebastian

Susie
Susie

Thomas
Thomas

Timmy
Timmy

Toby
Toby



Lily on the Green
MACY'S

The event is being held in every Macy's store nationwide on Saturday, February 28 and is designed to raise awareness and support for local and regional nonprofit organizations across the United States - including PAWS 4 YOU RESCUE.

Macy's donates tickets to the one-day shopping event to PAWS 4 YOU RESCUE. Our Rescue is selling the coupons for only five dollars and using proceeds for our spay and neutering surgeries.
 
Please email jen@paws4you.org if you would like to donate $5 and receive a 10-20% coupon for their February 28th event!

Or visit us at PetSmart on Sundays from 11-3pm for your coupon!  (across from The Falls on US1 & SW 136th Street)

SALE DATE: February 28, 2009