HELPING THE INVISIBLE DOGS<br /> IN TOWN POUNDS
HELPING THE INVISIBLE DOGS
IN TOWN POUNDS

WELCOME TO THE
POUNDHOUNDS WEBSITE!

Join us in helping the invisible dogs
in town pounds.







How did PoundHounds help pound dogs in 2009?

We funded medical care or training for 222 dogs in 2009, a 44% increase over 2008! Total funding for the spay/neuter program rose 71% due to more dogs and increased vet fees as well as an expansion to our program services. All that with less money - we received 31% less money from grants and direct donations. 2009 was a busy year and we expect 2010 to be the same. We will continue to what we can for the dogs in town pounds - all thanks to you! Please consider making a donation to PoundHounds to help us continue this good work.





Keeping Paws Safe in the Snow

Stick an ice cube between your toes and try to walk. It's uncomfortable and cold. That's what happens to dogs if snow gets packed between the pads of a dog's paw. Even just a little build-up of snow pulls the sensitive hairs between the paws and makes it painful to walk, not to mention cold and uncomfortable.

You can help by keeping the toenails cut short and the fur between the pads of the foot trimmed. If you don't go to a professional groomer, a good rule of thumb for at-home trimming of fur between the pads is to hold the scissors parallel with the pads, just shearing off the fur that sticks out from between the pads. Around the toenails, the fur should be cut just short enough to see the end of the nail. Remember, don't trim the fur too short because it does protect the feet from the snow. To read more about what you can do to protect your dog's paws in the snow, click here.

Dog Behavior

Do You Understand Pet Behavior?
Take a Fun Quiz and Find Out

PETsMart has created an online resource guide on pet behavior. You may discover you don't know your dog's signs and signals as well as you think.

Dr. Suzanne Herts, a certified animal behaviorist, has created learning tools to ensure you have a strong communication bond with your pets.

There are both cat and dog quizzes that will test your knowledge. Take the quiz by clicking here.


ACO Resources

Senate Bill 2120

As many of you are aware, an act to update animal control laws in Massachusetts is underway. If passed, this bill would:

  • Create a publicly funded spay/neuter resource
  • Prevent breed-specific ordinances
  • Put a model dangerous dog law in place
  • Require that ACOs are trained
  • Make certain inhumane methods of euthanasia illegal
  • Make other updates and improvements to our animal control statutes

If you haven't done so already, Click here to take action and sign up as a supporter of this bill.




The Animal Rescue Site

FreeKibble.com


Who are we helping now?

Cupcake (Haverhill).... Gabby (Agawam).... Selena (Gardner)....

PoundHounds is funding Cupcake's dental work. She's at the Templeton Animal Control. Here's hoping Cupcake feels comfortable soon! Stay tuned for updates.


FDA Consumer Warning: Salmonella Contamination of Dog Treats

An FDA consumer warning has been issued for Merrick Beef Filet Squares dog treats. In December, during routine testing of Merrick Beef Filet Squares, the FDA detected Salmonella. A follow-up inspection found that deficiencies in the packaging and manufacturing processes may be the cause of the contamination.

No cases of salmonella poisoning have been filed; however, the FDA encourages consumers to discard treats with "Best By 111911" on the packaging label.

Humans can become infected, so be sure not to handle the treats during disposal. Visit the FDA website for details.


Ask the Trainer

PoundHounds has partnered with Sonia Mullen of Canine Techniques, in Chester, NH, to answer your questions about your dog's behavior!

Click here to read past questions and find out how to submit your own questions.


Foreclosure Resources

Home foreclosures are on the rise in Massachusetts and many pets are losing their homes as well as their families. Pets have been among the voiceless victims of the current economic downturn. Shelters are reporting increases in animal surrenders due to financial difficulties and foreclosures as families struggle to keep and feed pets. If foreclosure looks possible, plan ahead by looking for pet-friendly housing, locating a temporary home for your pet, or adopting your pet out yourself to well-screened homes. If all else fails, bring your pet to your local humane shelter or animal control facility. But never abandon your pet. Resources are available. Click here to read more and to find out what you can do to help.


The Many Faces of Barktoberfest!