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Thursday, December 1, 2011

Really CBC??

On Cheri DiNova's facebook  page, I noted that CBC is apparently having a "discussion" tonight about pit bulls:
More BREAKING NEWS! CBC is doing a piece on the BAN tonight and are quoting the new Attorney General on twitter saying how the BAN is working. Wonder if it's based on the Global TV reporta week ago which has been proven to NOT be accurate?

Heading over to the CBC website, I put in "pit bull" into the search engine in an attempt to find the article or announcement in question - what came up (dated August 31 of this year) was the following:

Wednesday August 31, 2011 .What to do about pit bulls?


HRM councillor Gloria McClusky and Cole Harbour veterinarian Don Slaunwhite give their views on these aggresive dogs.
REALLY CBC? that's journalism? that's unbiased?  That's like one of those questions for which there is no RIGHT answer ... before the discussion on that date even began, the dogs were (wrongly) labelled "aggressive"...

I'm absolutely disgusted...

And the rational minds are growing... another MPP stands up for pit bulls

MPP Randy Hillier (MPP for Lanark-Frontenac-Lennox and Addington) yesterday tabled a bill to repeal the absurd, misguided and outrageous McGinty-driven ban on pit bulls, in effect since 2005.
In standing up for dogs which do not have a voice, he joins the ranks of rational, compassionate politicians (which are all too few). 

Cheri DiNovo (MPP for Parkdale/High Park) has been fighting the good fight for several years now - usually on her own - to ban this piece of unscientific, erroneous and hysterical piece of legislation. 

Finally, another advocate for animals, Frank Klees - MPP for Newmarket, Aurora  (who has targeted the corrupt and INhumane OSCPA) has also raised his voice in support of repealing the breed ban.

Since 2005, Ontario has ferociously, without conscience and cruelly, slaughtered THOUSANDS of innocent dogs - all based on a concept that has been proven time and again to be fallacious.  These dogs (and puppies) were wrested from homes, picked up and given no chances, destroyed at will and have in many cases, resulted in thousands of dollars in legal costs as desperate owners fought to save the lives of their beloved pets.

BREED BANS DO NOT WORK.

Gobal TV blithely lied through their teeth last week in a monumental display of the very worst of Fleet Street Journalism, quote Public Health statistics which do not (and never have) existed "showing" a decline in bites since the legislation was enacted.  Thankfully, Yvette Van Veen in a Star article clearly showed the truth of the matter in this article - which amply illustrates what most of us have always known - banning any breed is pointless as there is NO one breed that harbours an innate aggressiveness or viciousness.  Sadly, the "pit bull" actually tests HIGHEST on the American temperament test for bite inhibition and friendliness to humans, contrary to the hysterical claims of "bred in the bone meanness".  The very fact that there are so many stories of dogs rescued from horrific fight situations that end up as loving family pets and even therapy dogs attests to the sweet nature of these animals.

There is, first and foremost, the REALITY that "pit bull" is simply a catch phrase which encompasses a vast array of dogs with similar characteristics in appearance - Staffordshire terriers, American bulldogs, boxers, and other breeds and mixes. Based ONLY on incorrect and misguided "statistics" which are (and have been) easily refuted and shown to be wrong, the Ontario Liberals courted public opinion, bolstered by a tendency on the part of media to "hype" any story that involved a dog that in any way or form resembled some kind of bully dog and have managed to create a miasma and misplaced atmosphere of terror around dogs which by their VERY NATURE are loving, protective and sweet.

PLEASE, take a few minutes to contact each of these MPPs and tell them how appreciative YOU are that they are fighting this piece of legislation at the emails below:

Frank Klees at fklees@frank-klees.on.ca
Cheri DiNovo at dinovoc-co@ndp.on.ca
and our latest hero, Randy Hillier at http://www.randyhilliermpp.com/

They need to hear our voices.

They need to know we support them.

They need to know we CARE.

Wednesday, October 26, 2011

Two good things... BRAVO Toronto City Council!

Toronto council has made some good decisions in the past week.

First, Toronto Zoo's elephants finally get to go to a climate and place that better meets their needs. Surprisingly, it is the councillor for my Ward that put forth motion - good JOB Michelle Beranedetti!


Berardinetti said councillors could be assured the elephants would not be moved again but would stay in the spacious facility, which includes an elephant sized whirlpool to treat arthritis.

The Galt, California PAWS sanctuary for old and ailing animals will allow Toronto's elephants to live out their lives in a climate more suited to their nature and with 80 acres to roam, will more clearly approximate a natural environment for them.

I am cautiously pleased that society is finally recognizing the wrongs we have enacted against these magnificant creatures with their sensitive natures and complex, complicated and rich culture and making serious attempts to rectify them.

Toronto city council then voted and approved a motion to ban the sale and consumption of shark fins - joining 3 other cities in Ontario in an effort to stave off the very real potential of extinction of this magnificant species of fish.  Rob Stewart, who produced the documentary Sharkwater, detailing the terrible toll being taken on sharks throughout the world, was jubilant:

I think it will set a precedent morally that Canada wants to ban shark fins and I think a federal ban will follow shortly after,” he said. “When your biggest city comes out and says 38-4 that they want a world where sharks have a future, I think the federal government will act, too.”

While disappointing, I'm not surprised at the disgruntled comments which accompany the article in the Star.

You know what, people? City council is EXACTLY where it should start!  The reality of the horrific practice of cutting of the shark's fins and then throwing them back to drown MUST be stopped- and it can and will start with the individual, move up to local government , then to the provincial and THEN to federal.   Read and watch these videos if you really think this barbaric practice should continue (warning, graphic and upsetting).

REAL change starts from the ground up- kudos to City Council for taking on these challenges

Wednesday, October 19, 2011

Slaughter of the Innocents

On Tuesday, October 18, just before killing himself, Terry Thompson opened the doors of the cages in which the more than 50 (number is disputed but seems to range between 45-55) exotic animals he owned lived their sad lives and released them to run wild. See the story here, in the Wall Street Journal here and in the Columbus Dispatch.


Ohio has some of the nation's weakest restrictions on exotic pets and among the highest number of injuries and deaths caused by them.
Apparently, there had been numerous complaints about how the animals were treated over the years, resulting in investigations but no action. Various media report that several different organizations (including a horse rescue) had at one time or another visited the farm in response to allegations of cruelty, neglect and failure to ensure a healthy environment. Due no doubt to the extremely lax laws in Ohio respecting ownership and care of, exotic animals, no repercussions ever occurred and he continued to collect wild animals.

Officers arrived in the area, armed with assault weapons and proceeded to slaughter the confused, frightened and disoriented animals. Sheriff Matt Lutz insisted it was all about "public safety" ... yet as noted below:

There, Lutz said, they found Thompson dead outside his house and “every single animal-cage door open.”Lutz said the deputies saw a number of animals standing outside their cages, still on the property, while others had escaped a fence that surrounds Thompson’s property. Deputies immediately began shooting animals, he said.
It sounds very much to be as if local law enforcement took full advantage of the situation to indulge themselves in big game hunting. From the number of stories I have perused, it was daylight when deputies first arrived - and they IMMEDIATELY opened fire. I am confused as to why tranquilizer guns were not an option nor why they did not immediately seek the help of individuals cognizant of how to deal with exotic wildlife.

While I understand the need to protect citizens, nothing I have read thus far indicates the animals were in any way out of control at that moment. Shooting, wounding and frightening them no doubt DID increase the level of aggression and I would think contributed to their running away.

I do not believe there is ANY place for individuals to "own" exotic wildlife. An understanding of their species, a commitment to creating a humane and positive environment, and the very expensive reality of feeding and housing diverse species is simply beyond the capabilities of most private individuals. Even relegated and government-approved zoos have difficulty keeping in the black - private individuals inevitably cut corners and create environments that are, quite simply, horrific for most animals.

The reality is that the mindset that prevailed for the past many years that you can "own" lions, tigers and bears (and other species) is simply immoral and untenable. Science has clearly revealed the complex societies which exist among the various species are far more nuanced and complicated than man had had ever envisioned. There is a growing awareness that keeping animals in small cages is cruel and inhumane and that IF they are to exist among our society, then money, knowledge and awareness MUST ensure that their environments are suited to their temperaments and needs.

Animals are NOT in this world to create a sideshow for the common man.

Animals are NOT in this world to provide "entertainment" or form a source of quick income.

We have a responsibility to recognize that we share this world with creatures which are different but not inferior to the human species. We are already decimating their natural environments; if they are reduced to living their lives in public arenas, then the very least we can do is provide them with a viable place in which to live out their lives.

The real victims in this tragedy are the animals. First, they are relegated to substandard care and from all accounts, neglect and then, already having been abandoned and ignored by the law, they are then slaughtered. I maintain that there must have been SOME way of ensuring that at least a percentage of these animals could have been captured alive and unharmed; they were, after all, fairly cognizant and familiar with human beings.

This goes for circuses which use animals; many stories have been written about the excreable conditions in which the Shriner Circus keeps its animals.

This goes for Marineland - where whales which are meant to swim the vast ocean are relegated to pools which would be equivalent to living in a bathtub
ZooCheck Canada aptly and tragically details many of the atrocities which occur daily here in our own province.

Deprivation and suffering are the hallmarks of roadside zoos is their motto. Visit their pages and enlighten yourself as to the atrocious and horrific conditions animals are living in RIGHT now in your own neighbourhood.

And as for Terry? I hope he rots in hell.

Wednesday, October 5, 2011

Lest we forget ... vote LIBERAL, vote TO CONDEMN OUR ANIMALS

Below is a letter from Lynn Perrier, Founder of RAWW. What she relates here is the truth. We are in danger in this province of allowing complaceny and a lack of interest to condemn the animals of this province to yet another long endless term of neglect, disinterest, cruelty and gross negligence.  The reality is that it is MCGINTY who gave the OSPCA the obscene powers they currently hold. It is HIS government that condemned THOUSANDS of innocent dogs to die - because of how they look.  Tomorrow, give the animals of Ontario a fighting chance- and vote ANYTHING but liberal.


WHAT THIS ELECTION MEAN TO PET OWNERS
 
If you are an animal lover or pet owner your vote in this election has never been more important. You may have been lucky enough to not ever have had an animal issue to deal with which brought the OSPCA to you door. Consider yourself fortunate.

OSPCA and the McGuinty government do not have the welfare of the animals of Ontario on their agenda. OSPCA is mandated to protect animals from cruelty when in fact they are the ones who are cruel. In case you missed all the headlines in May 2010 they planned on killing 350 animals at the shelter in Newmarket. A leak to the press, public outrage and PC MPP Frank Klees demands in the Legislature to stop the killing prevented them from killing all. They managed to kill 102 before they were stopped.
http://www.cp24.com/servlet/an/local/CTVNews/20100512/100512_ospca_euthanization?hub=CP24Home

Once caught they claimed it was because of a ringworm outbreak. An investigation by Justice Patrick LeSage and Dr. Allan Meek (which is still posted by direction on OSPCA website
http://www.ospca.ca) found there was no outbreak of ringworm and no justification for the killing. It is rumoured they wanted to renovate the building and its easier to renovate an empty building than one filled with animals. In fact they did renovate after that to the tune of $250,000 lowering the capacity of the shelter to 155 animals from almost 400. To date they have never had it filled with much more than a few cats, a couple of dogs and mostly mice and guinea pigs while they continue to claim they have limited resources are not funded by the government. A naive public send in donations which typically go towards such things their annual meetings at Casino Rama or how about the recent trip to Florida for a meeting by 13 OSPCA staff. That folks is how they spend donor dollars, not for the animals. The Barrie branch of OSPCA recently sent out a public plea for food and donations because they only had 22 cans of pet food. How does anyone justify keeping a government in power who lets an organization like this run amok. You can be sure their spin doctors will manage to find photo ops to make themselves look wonderful.

OSPCA tax return for 2009:
http://tinyurl.com/4zwyf7fhttp://tinyurl.com/4zwyf7f
This organization has intimidated and extorted money from farmers and pet owners alike. Around May this year they settled out of court with a farmer whose animals were seized for no reason. You see what they do is seize them and either the owners pay exorbitant amounts to get their animals back or they put them in auction and sell them. Either way the money goes back to OSPCA to squander. The farmer in question should have had his animals returned but when they judge ruled OSPCA must return them, they handed the farmer a bill in the amount of $123,000 for boarding his animals. He didn't have the $123,000, never saw his animals again, lost his farm because of all the legal fees and attempted suicide. What about Rocky the beautiful 14 year old Husky dog in Etobicoke. Rocky was a little arthritic, he sometimes walked slowly, was on medication, well looked after by his vet and loved by his owner who is a school teacher. In June Rocky's owner put him in the backyard where he usually slept when she went to work. The garage door was open enough for him to get in where there was a bed and water if he wanted it. A new neighbour seeing Rocky sleeping under the tree thought he was dead and called OSPCA. OSPCA took Rocky from his own yard and killed him. At no time did they try to locate his owner but what is even worse they didn't even bother to check Rocky's microchip. If they had it would have led them to his vet.

In the meantime, Mr. McGuinty turns a blind eye to this and will not acknowledge a problem. You see his government gave OSPCA their powers. If he acknowledges their abuse of those powers then he must admit he was wrong in the first place. He will never do that so OSPCA continue their reign of terror on the animals of Ontario. There are many, many, many stories similar to these. If you care about it please do a Google search on OSPCA ringworm, OSPCA horse farmer, OSPCA cattle farmer, Dundas, OSPCA Frank Klees, OSPCA Jim Sykes, OSPCA heartworm in Ontario, OSPCA Katrina dogs, OSPCA Kevin Strooband, OSPCA Rocky.
http://www.torontosun.com/2011/10/04/liberals-gaining-support-in-days-before-election

I am pleading with all of you who love animals to please get out and vote against the Liberals to ensure the McGuinty government and their animal hating party do not get in once again. Your vote has never been so important. We can not let this happen. Tell everyone you know to get out and vote. Drive them to their polling stations if you must but please vote. Every vote against the Liberals will be a vote for our animals. Do not let them be abused any more by a government and system that don't think they are important.
If you are an animal lover you can not let this happen.
Lynn Perrier
Founder
RAAW Reform Advocates for Animal Welfare
(Ed.Note: - my empahsis - selkie)
 
                   

Monday, September 26, 2011

Support Hershey's Bill - join the rally at Queen's Park this Saturday, Oct. 1

On August 25, 2005, a great wrong was perpetuated by the Liberal majority - an amendment to the Dog Owners Liability Act ("DOLA") was amended to include Bill 132 (Breed Specific Legislation). Based on innuendo, media hysteria and rumour, dogs who, in the opinion of unqualified personnel met the criteria of "pit bull" (a NON-breed) were categorically condemned to die.  From that point on, any innocent pups born that roughly met the description of "pit bull" were slated to die (or worse, sent to research facilities) based entirely on suppositions that overwhelming evidence has shown to be erroneous.  

Despite being faced with testimony that clearly and emphatically showed (a) there IS not a "pit bull breed" - but in fact the so-termed "pit bull" encompasses a variety of breeds, including:

 Staffordshire Bull Terrier,

an American Staffordshire Terrier

or




an American “pit bull” Terrier.



Further, expert after expert has testified that the BREED of a dog is NOT the issue; that ANY dog can and will bite dependent on the circumstances.  It is the OWNERS who are the issue, NOT the dogs.

As case after case has shown, arbitrary designations of "pit bull" and subsequent seizures have meant innocent dogs have been wrenched from loving, responsible owners and condemned to death.  It wasn't that long ago that Ginger was in the news (as eloquently put by Brindle Stick) or the infamous bungling of Hamilton Animal Control, when for no discernible reason other than the officers thought they "looked like pit bulls", two affectionate, loving and non-aggressive BOXER mixes were seized and Rambo and Brittany's owners were launched into a maelstrom of "proving" their dogs weren't on the banned list.

What's the common denominator in this and most of the other stories that have made it to the news over the past many years?  The dogs seized were seized based on their LOOKS alone - not because they were aggressive, not because they were considered dangerous, NOT because there had been any complaints.  They were condemned to death ONLY because a loosely couched law says they could be.

Take a look and see if you too and Find the pit bull:  - bet you can't!

MPP Cheri diNova has courageously stepped up and spoken for all the silent voices. She has refused to back down from the ill-informed, bullying Liberals with their hysterical, crowd-pleasing tactics to create fear and hysteria and garner votes and said STOP.  Introducing as a private member's bill, Bill 60 (known as Hershey's Law) would repeal the BSL portion of the DOLA.

Go to http://supporthersheysbill.com/ for more information. Among the recommendations are the following:
  • We support responsible legislation that holds irresponsible owners adequately accountable for their dogs’ actions.
  •  We support MPP Cheri DiNovo who has tabled Hershey’s Law (aka) Bill 60
  •  We support the recommendations of the Dog Legislation Council of Canada (DLCC).
  •  We support the research of the National Canine Research Council.
  •  We support the By Laws and Programs of the Calgary Animal Services
  • We  call for Bill 132 to be overturned and replaced with responsible legislation that promotes responsible ownership for all breeds, and places the blame where it clearly belongs, on irresponsible dog owners, animal abusers and those who participate in dog fighting or support it. (my emphasis)

 It just makes sense.  NO dogs are by nature born mean. NO Dogs are born "naturally" aggressive.  Owners are the issue - NOT the dog- and certainly not the breed.
Join the rally this weekend, Saturday, October 1 at Queen's Park and let your voice speak for the innocent voices that cannot speak for themselves.

Wednesday, September 21, 2011

CENSORSHIP ... and by a foreign NATION?


CTV (and by virtue of being its boss, BellMedia) - you WUSS - the Saudis whine and cry and bully you and you back down???  An ad which labels Saudi oil as the "unethical" choice in view of their poor record with womens' rights (or lack thereof) was pulled at the last moment when the Saudis made threats and created a scene.  At EthicaOil.org - the full article.

This is a brazen act of domestic political interference by a foreign dictatorship that neither understands nor respects the rights of women or freedom of speech,” said Alykhan Velshi, executive director of EthicalOil.org, a grassroots advocacy organization that educates consumers about their choice between ethical oil from Canada’s oil sands and conflict oil from dictatorships like Saudi Arabia. “Each time we buy Saudi conflict oil we are funding their oppression – and now their attempts at Saudi-style censorship of Canadian TV. This is the ad Saudi Arabia doesn’t want Canadians to see.”

WTF?

A FOREIGN nation decides what CTV viewship is 'allowed' to see?

Kudos to Sun News Network for taking up the gauntlet and fighting this outrageous curtailment of our Canadian commitment to free speech.  See that story here.

Social Mange has an excellent rant here about this.

I was also encouraged to see that Immigration Minister Jason Kenney is not taking this outrageous curtailment of freedom of speech sitting down:
"Apparently (the Saudi) government has threatened Canadian broadcasters if they run a particular ad by a Canadian non-profit, non-governmental organization," Kenney said during a stop in Brampton, Ont. "Canada is a country that is a champion of freedom of speech. That is a constitutional right. And we don't take kindly to foreign governments threatening directly or indirectly Canadian broadcasters or media for giving voice to freedom of speech."
As noted by SM - frankly, I have a HUGE issue with the Alberta oil sands and their undeniable impact on the environment (in a very negative way).  The reality that Alberta has refused to address the adverse environmental effect of its oil sands is NOT the issue here, however. The issue is the right Canadians have to their opinions, a right to talk and discuss those opinions, a right that is entrenched in our Canadian constitution.

And CTV backs DOWN???  SHAME on you! BOYCOTT CTV and make your views known; don't just turn them off, but pick up your 'pen', flex your fingers and COMPLAIN:

Email:  •CTV Programming:
programming@ctv.ca



By mail/phone:

Contact Information here:

CTV Television Network
Mailing Address:
P.O. Box 9, Station 'O,'
Scarborough, Ontario, Canada
M4A 2M9

Bell Media
Mailing Address:
299 Queen Street West
Toronto, Ontario, Canada
M5V 2Z5

Telephone: (416) 384-5000
TTY/TDD: 1-800-461-1542

Thursday, September 8, 2011

Media Hype and Let's KILL the DOGS - Police Dog Wyatt

It is no surprise to anyone involved in animal welfare that one of the most prevalent, vindictive and pervasive influences on the public mindset and perception of dogs is the media hype that accompanies almost every story which deals with these companion animals. Studies have shown repeatedly that particularly with respect to pit bulls, dogs that might be pit bulls, dogs that somewhere in their genetic history had some pit bull, dogs that have a pit bull living next to them and thus by proximity are pit bulls ... well you get the picture. Often wrongly, the headlines bleat and cry and shout "Pit Bull slaughters ...."


But that aside, the media loves to hype dog bite stories. It attracts readers, shapes public perception and sells papers.  If the breed involved is NOT a pit bull, it is highly likely that the incident will be relegated to a minor story whereas if a "pit bull" (or a dog perceived to be a pit bull - it is astonishing how many dogs that have no relation to pit bulls get labelled as such - it seems if you have a whippy tail, short hair and a big head, you're one of "those dogs") it is hyped through every form of media.

However, if there are no pit bulls to revile and denigrate, any dog bite will do.

A recent article in The Toronto Star REALLY pissed me off - story is here.  Note the headline: Dog bit police employee before attacking student

Now, first, I feel for the kid that got bitten - dog bites are painful and the experience itself must have been terrifying. BUT, then look at the FIRST paragraph:

A Peel police dog that bit an innocent woman twice during a search for robbery suspects on June 28 has bitten people 14 times — including a civilian police employee earlier the same month.

But let's look at the FACTS here.  The dog had bitten 14 times - 13 of which came in the course of his duties, Saliba told the Toronto Star.  In other words, the dog was doing his JOB. Further, the one other bite which involved a civilian police employee was investigated and determined that it was a training issue with the dog handler, which has since been addressed, Saliba said


But what is the overall thrust of the article? What will strike MOST people who read it? That this dog is visicious, out of control and should be destroyed - and in fact several commentators say exactly that!

What BULLSHIT.

This dog has been involved in 73 police occurrences, 46 of which resulted in apprehensions and ONLY 13 of which involved BITES.  This is not a litany of mayhem and horror by an out of control dog. This is an admirable record of a hard-working, highly trained POLICE dog.

The fact that Wyatt bit the girl is unfortunate - it is also very clearly based on the reported facts, a HANDLER issue:

According to the SIU, the dog only released its grip on Rosales after repeated commands from its handler. Seconds later, the dog again bit Rosales, who was taken to hospital with severe cuts.

Whether the handler was inexperienced, whether he failed to reaffirm and keep Wyatt's training current is unknown.  Certainly, there had been already a previous incident that was handler-related.  From the actions themselves, it tells me this is a dog that was trying to do what it perceived as its job with a "partner" that it neither trusted nor completely respected (which is not to say Wyatt doesn't love his handler, but respect and love in a dog's eyes are two very different things). 

Wyatt does not sound like an out-of-control dog that needs euthanizing.

Wyatt sounds like a dog trying to do his job and perhaps getting conflicting demands from his partner.

I bloody hate the media at times. Wyatt has already been tried and convicted in the public forum - with inflammatory language, biased reporting and a very obvious propensity for hype, a mis-step on the part of a hard-working dog has resulted in his public pilloring.

Read the facts and draw your own conclusions - I've drawn mine.

Tuesday, September 6, 2011

LAST week for shelters and rescues to register at reduced rate at Blessfest 2011

Go to Blessfest home page here for more information! A fantastic opportunity to showcase your rescue or shelter.  Participating shelters and rescues will be entered into a draw with a portion of the fees to go towards your cause!

Until September 10 it costs only $40 to reserve your 10x10 space (maximum) - after that, fees increase to $75 so register soon!

Monday, September 5, 2011

Good work THS Volunteers!! $2800 raised at Garage and Bake Sale

Thank you to everyone who donated, everyone who sorted and got sweaty and dirty and worked themselves to the bone to get all prepared and to sort it all and clean it up after. 

Thank you to ALL the amazing bakers who donated such delicious home-baked goods - for humans and pups!  The many baked goods were absolutely scarfed up in NO time.

And thank to Starbucks, 81 Front Street for your generous donation of coffee, amazing Starbucks baked goods and the services of my kid - kudos to Rowan the Barrista for serving coffee to all the wonderful people who stopped by on your one day "off" (after 10 days working!)

Good boys. Good girls!!

Special needs animals will benefit!

Tuesday, August 23, 2011

Gentle Giant looking for a lap of his own

(A repost-with minor editing due to a personal request)

Meet Goliath... an absolutely beautiful, sweet-natured  and easy-going golden lab.

Goliath was once a puppy, sweet, cuddly and entrancing and at some point must have engaged someone because his manners are impeccable. Unlike many labs, Goliath does not chew things he shouldn't.  Nor is he a barker other than an absolutely captivating, delicious almost baying when you come home from a guy who is so happy to see you that he can't contain himself.

He loves everyone - including other dogs, cats and no doubt anything else that breathes. But his true calling is that he ADORES people and wants nothing more than to sit quietly beside you.

Goliath has allergies which caused skin inflamation and loss of hair when first fostered. Since then, his current mum effected an astonishing improvement in his allergies through the introducation of a raw diet.  His coat has filled in beautifully and there are only a few minor patches which are also improving daily.  A condition of adoption would require potential adopters to continue with the raw diet.  For those unfamalier with the raw food diet, it is actually very easy and takes minimal effort as well as being incredibly healthy for the dog.   In many ways it also more cost-effective.  Dogs see an improvement in energy, their coats shine and many medical issues clear up.

Please, let's work together to find Goliath a home.

About Goliath:

Age:                    5-7 *estimated
Neutered:            Yes
Vaccinations:       Up to date
Temperment:        Easy-going, affable and loving
Energy Level:       Medium - loves a good walk but also content just to be around his people
Medical Issues:    None other than allergies which are contained with a raw diet


Monday, August 22, 2011

THS Garage Sale!!! Sunday, September 4th



LOTs and lots of good stuff- including awesome pet supplies, jewellery, books, and all and sundry other items. ALL donations go directly to help the animals at the Toronto Humane Society.

Starbucks coffee and delicious home-baked goods will also be featured!

Monday, August 15, 2011

Mark Sunday, October 2 on your Calendar for Blessfest

Blessfest 2011 will take place at Fairy Lake in Newmarket. It is a terrific opportunity to bring your pet to be blessed (non-denominational), meet other animal lovers, browse vendors and talk to experts. There will be a petting zoo for kids and a chance to watch demonstrations, listen to speakers and enjoy the Fall weather with your best friend!

FREE admission!

Vendors with animal related products and services who would like to take advantage of this terrific opportunity should contact BLESSFEST2011@YAHOO.CA.

Non-profit animal organizations are also invited to take part by renting a table to be shared with other like-minded organizations for a very nominal cost.  A fantastic opportunity to promote your cause.

Pets to be blessed must be pre-registered online through the website: http://www.BLESSFEST2011.com

Tuesday, July 26, 2011

Keep Toronto Animal Services PUBLIC - back off Ford! - Letter to my councillor ...

Laura (from Feathers, Fur and the Occasional Fang blog) here and here.
Social Mange here.
Pound Dog (also TAS volunteer)  here , here and here.

July 26, 2011


VIA FAX

Councillor Michelle Berardinetti
Toronto City Hall
100 Queen Street West, Suite A8
Toronto, ON M5H 2N2

Dear Ms. Berardinetti:

RE: Toronto Animal Services

As a constituent in your riding, I am writing to ascertain your stand on the Ford-endorsed, KPMG suggestion that animal services in Toronto be privatized.

While already disappointed, with your short-sighted take on the bike lanes in our City, I am hopeful that you realize that to privatize TAS would be morally repugnant and a grievous step towards undermining a moral and compassionate society. Simply by googling Berger Blanc - the 'for profit' animal services in Montreal, you will see how horrific an environment is created when animals are relegated to a commodity. There are a plethora of article on recently revealed atrocities which have been - and continue to be - endemic to this type of organization.

Toronto Animal Services has made tremendous strides towards becoming a truly compassionate, healthy and positive guardian of animal welfare in the City of Toronto, and hopefully will be accorded the opportunity to continue to work towards an even more animal-positive environment. While there are still strides to be made, I have been favourably impressed with the positive changes I have witnessed over the past 15 years. Their trained staff are informed, educated and compassionate while their volunteer base is superlative. The euthanasia rate has steadily declined and most animals are given every opportunity to find a forever home in a welcoming, positive environment while waiting. This excellent care is provided at a very reasonable cost to the City. Further, the recently reformed Toronto Humane Society and TAS have established a positive and dynamic relationship which has resulted in the smooth transition of animals between their facilities in order to maximize adoption opportunities.

Animal services in any city must be a publicly funded and integral part of the infrastructure. A moral society recognizes the philosophical imperative to “do no harm” and an enlightened society strives to embrace an understanding of responsibility to all the denizens of the enclave. Calgary has done a superlative job of creating a publicly-funded service which many cities throughout North America seek to emulate. Strong licensing, cost-effective spay/neuter programs and close to a ‘no kill’ rate of euthanasia are among its successes; Toronto should continue to work towards a similar infrastructure NOT follow Montreal’s outrageous, inhumane and, ultimately, inefficient example.

Please advise of where you stand on this issue and some indication of where you intend to vote. Are you in favour of privatizing TAS or invested in keeping it a public service?

I look forward to hearing from you.

Yours truly,



Sheenagh Murphy

(faxed as of 8 a.m. July 26 - not optimistic as my councillor has been remiss in responding to other issues I've brought up)

Tuesday, July 19, 2011

DESPERATE need for donations and foster homes for LOTS of Bunnies




Rabbit Rescue took on a gargantuan task of taking in, caring for and providing much needed medical attention to more than 100 rabbits from a hoarding situation on Manitoulin Island in Northern Ontario. While the call originally went out to the Sudbury OSPCA, it was in fact Rabbit Rescue who has taken on all the responsibility for dealing with these bunnies, all of which need medical help.


Please DONATE anything you can - medical expenses are expected to top more than $30,000 and the OSPCA has left this wonderful rabbit rescue organization holding the bag.

As per the website:
Of the 103 rabbits we took in last weeks, most are requiring immediate medical attention. All need to be spayed/neutered. Many rabbits have URIs, and urine scald, but many others have much more serious problems requiring extensive medical care. These include: an enucleation (eye removal), GI stasis, dental disease, incisor extraction, molar filings, dental abscesses, mastectomy for abscessed mammary gland. Please help us help the bunnies by making a tax deductible donation today!
The organization is also desperately seeking fosters; cages and other needs will be supplied. Please contact haviva@rabbitrescue.ca if you can help foster a bunny (or call 905-875-4343). 

Housing is also needed - large dog cages, cubes and other housing would be gratefully received.

The Guelph Mercury article is here and the Toronto Star coverage here.

Rabbits are wonderfully amusing, curious little animals who make loving companions for many years.  Rabbit Rescue faces a HUGE and daunting task to care for these innocent little bunnies - if you can help, every dollar COUNTS!!

Tuesday, July 12, 2011

Urban Desert - Conclusion

(Parts 1, 2 and 3 are here, here and here)

Embrace the Opportunity to Interact


We have a priceless opportunity in this city to teach our children and educate ourselves about a wider world than one constrained by cement and concrete. So many of us today are alienated and removed from the environment. Many children have no concept of where the food on their table really originates. They are oblivious to the realities that milk comes from a cow, that vegetables are grown in a field, that the meat that they see in pristine, shrink-wrapped trays were once living, breathing creatures.

I truly believe that losing contact with the living world around us leaves us lesser for it.

We cover ourselves in the ultimately ephemeral trappings of civilization, seeing in them a hard reality. Yet they are fleeting and transitory, easily derailed and causing chaos, confusion and fear when breakdowns (as they inevitably do) occur.

The cycle of life is often muted and obscured in our urban lifestyle, its reality lost in the frantic rush towards what are ultimately vacuous goals.

We’ve forgotten how to breathe.

We’ve forgotten how to open eyes clouded by smog and the misplaced urgencies created by machines and corporate factories.

We’ve lost sight of the fact that the wildlife so many despise are simply part of the natural order of things – that we too are part of the cycle - our minds, and our spirits connected spiritually and emotionally to the earth we seek to dominate and expunge.

We need to take a deep breath and learn to embrace the creatures who are our fellow travellers in this all too short journey.

Urban Desert… War on Wildlife – Part 3 of 3 (Conclusion to follow)

(Part 1, 2 and Conclusion here)

Lack of Recourse


Perhaps one of the most horrific realities of the lack of effort Toronto puts into co-existing with its wildlife is the LACK of recourse for injured or hurt wildlife.

This was brought home to me a while ago when I desperately sought a place to bring 8 orphaned bunnies.

My first port of call was Toronto Animal Services. While apologetic, they were clear that they deal only with domestic animals and as such, if I brought the bunnies in, they would be immediately euthanized. They were kind enough to give me the number to Toronto Wildlife Services – a completely volunteer-based group with not enough resources despite the caring, passionate people who man the trenches. (Although truth be told, their site promises far more than they can apparently give.)

Unfortunately, after they kindly called me back after leaving a message, they were clear that they had neither the resources nor the people to deal with small bunnies. They in turn pointed me in the direction of Procyon Wildlife  in Beeton, Ontario.

I’m going to do a separate blog entirely on this incredibly wonderful, primarily volunteer-based wildlife services – they ROCK. They also, as founder and incredibly dedicated vet Dr. Cynthia Post said poignantly “may not be open this time next year” as she indicated that as the Centre runs entirely on donations they never know from year to year whether they have enough resources to continue.

So, I did in fact find a place but in so doing realized something awful – there is NOWHERE to go to within this huge city with all its resources to find help with the wildlife which co-exists with the individuals living here.

Seen by a large percentage of the population as “vermin”, racoons, skunks and squirrels are seen as the enemy. Labelled “killers”, coyotes and foxes simply doing what they do are increasingly under threat of being exterminated.

How moral is that? To know we do not exist in a vaccum? That, having displaced these living creatures, we now declare war on them and provide them with no place of refuge nor help when they inevitably come up against the concrete city?

Urban Desert… War on Wildlife – Part 2 of 3

(Parts 1, 3 and Conclusion here)

How to Co-Exist


It is the homeowner’s responsibility to keep possible means of ingress covered – it is not rocket science, nor does it have to be expensive. Keep your trees trimmed, keep your house in good repair, and chicken wire nailed over potential openings is cheap and efficient. When a skunk moved in under my shed (and around the SECOND week in a row when my sweet but far from bright Lass got skunked), I did some research … some ammonia on a rag pushed underneath and refreshed for a day or so and voila! No skunk and NO harm.

Fence your yard with a decent fence – it will keep out most predators.

MONITOR your pets – if you have a small dog, keep it leashed or stay out with it if you’re out for a pee break (to me, that is standard regardless – any animal is put at risk if left unmonitored – not just from wildlife, but from cars and other hazards of urban living).

Keep your cats INDOORS – they’re safer there anyway.

Keep garbage, green bins and recycling bins securely latched. If possible, hang your green bins as it makes it very difficult for the clever and very adept racoons to open them.

DO NOT feed wildlife – not only do you want to discourage them from just hanging out – but it is healthier for THEM if they stick to a natural diet that will meet their nutritional needs. I do confess I feed birds in the winter but once the weather improves, STOP, as the birds need to get what their bodies really need from the environment – not store bought seed.

Urban Desert… War on Wildlife – Part 1 of 3

(See Part 2, 3 and Conclusion here)

The War


The Star’s “Fixer” had a column today on an individual wanting a natural habitat in the Hydro corridor (actually near me) cut down ‘because of snakes’. Unbelievable, simply unbelievable – I am so SICK of the war on wildlife being waged in this city.

Each year, the metropolitan area gobbles up hectare after hectare of arable land, filling it with industrial waste and cookie cutter boxes of houses destroying the environment not only in terms of the land it paves over, but in terms of air pollution from the thousands of cars which commute from further and further distances. (and the subject of another rant, in so doing- due to the massive increase in car traffic, now there is a huge war on CYCLISTS).

Inside the city proper, I watch in disbelief as even the smallest little piece of land is quickly bought up then developed to a ridiculous degree – to a point, in fact, that would have been considered dangerous a few years ago. A small matchbox piece of land on a road near me with a SINGLE family home was bought and 14 TOWNHOUSES were put on it – then people complain when displaced creatures, desperately just trying to live, willing to adapt and just get on with their lives becomes an issue.

We share our limited space here in the city with a variety of wildlife. Coyotes, foxes, racoons, skunks, squirrels, snakes and even opossums, among them. These animals are simply trying to exist, to live their limited lives in the confines of unnatural civilization. They do not consciously choose to piss people off; they do not consciously decide to cause damage or irritate or scare anyone – they simply are – that is the thing about animals – they just ARE.

Yet, when the baby racoon was slashed and bashed with a shovel by an irate homeowner, the comments in the Star overall exonerated the man and excused this horrific behaviour. When the coyotes in the Ravine in the Guild did what coyotes DO and snatched “prey” which happened to be a very small dog, the knives came out and the raucous voice of the mob was heard “KILL THEM”.

We have a moral obligation to SHARE our space – it is we who have displaced the wildlife, not the other way around.

There are many ways and means to peacefully co-exist.

Wednesday, July 6, 2011

A Dog Has Died (Pablo Neruda)

My dog has died.
I buried him in the garden
next to a rusted old machine.

Some day I'll join him right there,
but now he's gone with his shaggy coat,
his bad manners and his cold nose,
and I, the materialist, who never believed
in any promised heaven in the sky
for any human being,
I believe in a heaven I'll never enter.
Yes, I believe in a heaven for all dogdom
where my dog waits for my arrival
waving his fan-like tail in friendship.

Ai, I'll not speak of sadness here on earth,
of having lost a companion
who was never servile.
His friendship for me, like that of a porcupine
withholding its authority,
was the friendship of a star, aloof,
with no more intimacy than was called for,
with no exaggerations:
he never climbed all over my clothes
filling me full of his hair or his mange,
he never rubbed up against my knee
like other dogs obsessed with sex.

No, my dog used to gaze at me,
paying me the attention I need,
the attention required
to make a vain person like me understand
that, being a dog, he was wasting time,
but, with those eyes so much purer than mine,
he'd keep on gazing at me
with a look that reserved for me alone
all his sweet and shaggy life,
always near me, never troubling me,
and asking nothing.

Ai, how many times have I envied his tail
as we walked together on the shores of the sea
in the lonely winter of Isla Negra
where the wintering birds filled the sky
and my hairy dog was jumping about
full of the voltage of the sea's movement:
my wandering dog, sniffing away
with his golden tail held high,
face to face with the ocean's spray.


Joyful, joyful, joyful,
as only dogs know how to be happy
with only the autonomy
of their shameless spirit.

There are no good-byes for my dog who has died,
and we don't now and never did lie to each other.

So now he's gone and I buried him,
and that's all there is to it.

Tuesday, July 5, 2011

Silly dogs

Having recently 'sprung' Llyr and Finn from forced incarceration in crates overnight (part of their training regime), there is obviously a period of adjustment required for all.  Finn sleeps beside my bed while the Llyr-boy is relegated to the living room (baby gate securely latched) as he is a counter-surfing, garbage-diving, unrepentent and irredeemable thief.  Today was the first morning that I had to contend with the dogs getting used to my own morning routine...

I get up at the crack of dawn - technically around 10 minutes to 4, often earlier as I have an unfortunate habit of waking too early and then not being able to fall back asleep. Making lunches, cleaning up the kitchen (from late night kid raids), and 20 minutes of Pilates is my morning routine.  The dogs, however, don't get the whole exercise thing ...

First, I lay my yoga mat on living room floor and then put on Pilates DVD.
Push Llyr off mat.
Switch on the routine of choice.
Throw Finn's chewed and drooly ball off my stomach.
Start routine.
Kick Llyr off my feet.
Continue routine.
Push both dogs away as they are now tugging the ball on either side of me and stepping all over me.
Do the "100s", stopping frequently to yell at dogs who are now leaping over me
Push Llyr away, get towel and wipe face from where he has been licking me.
Continue with ab work
Scramble up and pull Llyr away from table where he is raiding my bag with my lunch in it
Put legs in tabletop and start switches
Push Finn's comotose body across floor as she tries to "spoon" with me
Continue routine
Grab towel and wipe up water as Llyr has chewed on my water bottle and punctured it
Realize DVD is done
Shower...accompanied by two dogs, one of whom keeps dropping disgusting chewed toys in the tub ...

Guess there is a learning curve



Monday, June 27, 2011

PARTY KIDS + SHELTER ANIMALS = CRUELTY - Brilliant move, OSPCA

Visualize if you will a childrens' birthday party. Sticky fingers, sugar-highs, shrill voices and hyper excitement ... nothing out of the ordinary and nothing wrong with it. Kids, after all, will be kids.  However, having personally experienced on numerous occasions the sheer volume and activity level of a kids' party, I am cognizant it is NOT for the faint-hearted.  You need to gird yourself with patience, tolerance and strong alcohol gallons of black coffee (in a vain attempt to match their sugar high with your caffeine-driven frenetic energy).

Visualize then the animals in a shelter environment.  Relegated, through necessity, to small cages for extended periods of time.  Nervous, anxiety-ridden and often frightened.  If strays, adjusting to a life so foreign to its known world, it is earth-shaking.  If owner surrenders, then confused, scared and prone to uncharacteristic behaviour fueled by the animal's world being rocked on its axis.

Then think about the latest "brilliant" OSPCA endeavour - putting the two TOGETHER.

For $175, up to 12 children are invited to, among other things:
  •  An exciting, informative talk about the Ontario SPCA and the animals that stay with us
  • A tour of the Center
  • Hands-on socializing with our animals

Up to 12 children with no known degree of animal-husbandry.  Up to 12 kids with no insight into how much- if any- exposure they have had to animals.  Up to 12 kids, pumped on sugar and excitement - wanting to touch, fondle and "play" with animals which are already in a heightened state of anxiety and often, fear.
I wonder who thought up this BRILLIANT idea?
Could it be Kate Macdonald with her gaping paucity of knowledge and experience with animals?
Or perhaps Jim Sykes for whom the bottom line is MONEY not the humane, informed and proper care of animals?
A Board of Directors who see the OSPCA as a money-making endeavour with little connection to its stated mission?
I don't know what "genius" came up with this idea, but if we actually HAD a provincial humane organization that cared about animals - I would COMPLAIN to it!!  Oh, hold on - it is the actual provincial organization that SETS the rules, purports to spell out the parameters and has politically been allowed to dictate the measures that is actually DOING this.

This kind of grossly misguided way of raising funds for a "shelter" with almost NO animals simply highlights how unaware the individuals are who are running it. The fact that they proudly display this on their front page truly illustrates their ignorance when it comes to animals .
Ontario SPCA Humane Education Mission: By utilizing the bond between animals and children, the OSPCA is dedicated to providing leading edge education involving our environment, the animal kingdom, community and social justices to empower youth to become an informed, respectful & compassionate generation
I fail to see how putting up to 12 kids in close proximity to stressed, anxious animals is "humane".

I am perplexed how ANYONE with even a modicum of intelligence would believe that placing already excited kids around animals the organization purports to "protect" teaches anything but that animals are meant to be "playthings".

I believe that educating the public is crucial to moving froward an animal-friendly agenda in our society.

The obvious place to begin  is with children, many of whom in our society have had little to no chance to interact with animals, and many who may come from backgrounds due to a variety of factors that do not place the same value on animals that they deserve.

A birthday party is NOT one of the venues that would further that agenda.

Animals that interact on a regular basis with the general public, such as therapy dogs, require a certain temperament.  These animals are rigidly tested, exposed to a plethora of stressors and environments, are extensively trained and have one on one handling with beloved caretakers.

That does NOT encompass shelter animals.

These animals are dealing with enough terror in their lives, please do not contribute any more. Say NO to birthday parties at the OSPCA.

Thursday, June 23, 2011

We went, we protested and NO, OSPCA Brass- we are NOT going away

A determined group of people gathered yesterday outside OSPCA headquarters on Woodbine in Newmarket yesterday to demand again the resignation of OSPCA brass and killers extrordinaire Kate MacDonald, Tanya Firmage and Jim Sykes. Also on the agenda is a demand that the Board of Directors of this increasingly beleaguered organization resign due, among other things, to gross mismanagement and a failure to provide quality of life and a duty of care to the animals in their possession.

Terry Davidson of the Toronto Sun gives a succinct overivew of the situation, including a heartrending interview with Gianna Tramontin who recently had her old dog seized and summarily executed without due process nor any real attempt to contact her. Ms. Tramontin's veternarian Dr. Hannah who has bravely spoken out about the gross negligence involved in killing Rocky - an aging but happy dog who has been under her care for 14 years - also joined the protest. She was outraged that when the story was originally carried on CBC, her subsequent rebuttal of the OSPCA version of events was never aired and the CBC continued to present the OSPCA as a humanitarian organization only concerned with the suffering of an old "neglected" dog. This in fact was the farthest thing from the truth as Rocky was a beloved, cossetted and well cared for senior who is much missed by his family.

Carrying signs and bearing silent witness to the death last year of 102 animals at the Newmarket facility due to a since disputed "ringworm" outbreak (not only did the "outbreak" NOT occur, but even had it been present, ringworm is very treatable), protesters refuse to back down. Spokesperson Lynn Perrier (right), a tireless and determined animal advocate who has spearheaded the past several years campaign against OSPCA mismanagement, is determined to keep up the pressure.

Ms. Perrier and many others are seeking a number of actions:

  • For government step in to fire senior management (Jim Sykes, Kate MacDonald and Tanya Firmage and Connie Mallory)
  • Rob Godfrey and the entire Board of Directors be removed
  • A forensic audit of OSPCA finances and spending
  • An investigation into OSPCA charity status
  • Charges of animal cruelty to be brought against those responsible for the needless killing of 102 animals in May 2010 and the other animals like Rocky
Other than the occasional car driving out or in infrequently (faces frozen and determined not to look at the protesters), the building was silent.  Apparently, as Mr. Davidson said in his article:

A woman who came to the entrance of the building’s administrative offices said the agency was not commenting to the media, and that the shelter would stay closed until Thursday because of security concerns. OSPCA officials were not available for comment, she said.

Security concerns? 
In keeping with Ms. Perrier's request to keep the protest legal and civil, no one at yesterday's demonstration blocked the driveway, heckled, created issues or in any way disturbed the peace. 

With all respect, the thought of OSPCA brass who with impunity have broken the law, been caught out in lie after lie, unapologetically slaughtered animals for which they were supposed to care, NEVER apologized or even admitted to wrongdoing, the thought of these individuals cowering inside a locked building, in fear of a largely middle-aged (although there were a fair sprinkling of young ones there too!! YEAH kids - bring it on!) women (and a few men) - is somehow both compellingly hilarious and outrageously silly.  Not sure if they expected us to storm the gates and batter down the doors with our signs, but we, unlike them follow due process.

The reality is that while the OSPCA would like to paint Ms. Perrier, myself and many, MANY other individuals as fanatics and liars - FACTS belie their assertions and efforts to undermine a determined group of individuals who hope to rid of the OSPCA of the deceitful, immoral and negligent management and directors that are currently destroying it. 

I admit to being perplexed, disappointed and shocked that so many continue to swallow the party line - that the OSPCA is an animal advocate and protects Ontario's animals when so many stories, studies and realities clearly show otherwise.

The OSPCA is, when all is said and done - a KILLING machine.

Monday, June 20, 2011

OSPCA RALLY- Newmarket - this Wednesday, June 22

The Ontario Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals is an anathema to animal rights.


They are self-serving, deluded, corporate pigs (no offense to pigs who are smart, intelligent and loving animals – but using this word in the colloquial sense) who see animals as an unfortunate side effect of their bloated organizational morass – and thus ultimately disposable.

The reality is the OSPCA KILLS the majority of the animals they purport to “save”.

The reality is that it is their right (thank you Liberal government for facilitating this gross miscarriage of justice) to decide whether an animal is being treated improperly and their RIGHT to walk in and take the animal. The fact that after STEALING the animal they then kill it is indisputable and there are many PROVEN cases of this occurring.

It has now been clearly established beyond doubt that the OSPCA – the same organization which has attacked and destroyed both individuals and organizations for the same reason – have clearly contravened policies and procedures set out by the College of Veterinarians.

Just a few of the contraventions are as follow:
  • Inadequate record keeping of animals brought into the ospca Newmarket shelter.
  • Inadequate record keeping of animals killed and/or euthanized;
  • Inadequate record keeping of controlled drugs and medication;
  • Absence of even the "Minimum Standard" for the care and compassion of animals as specified in the Animals for Research Act and the Pound Act;
  • Inadequate training of supervisors and staff;
  • Allowing the killing of animals to be carried out by staff and/or auxiliary personnel without direct or immediate supervision of a registered veterinarian;
  • Inadequate performance and unacceptable services carried out regarding the most basic procedures
It would be ironic if it weren’t so heartbreaking that this bloated bureaucracy uses those same contraventions (often unsubstantiated) to harass and torment other individuals and organizations.

 
Premier Dalton McGuinty MUST immediately fire senior management Jim Sykes, Kate MacDonald, Tanya Firmage who have consistently, arrogantly and without conscience been caught out in lie after lie after lie.

 
In an independent review, J. Scott Weese, detailed failure after failure on the part of this nightmare for animals of an organization.
  • Variable and sometimes contradictory statements.
  • Content or factual errors.
  • Inadequate consideration of many broad issues that contribute to infectious disease transmission.
  • Inadequate provision of information to personnel for routine practices, health risks and disease control issues.
  • Reliance on passive suggestions rather than firm requirements, such that much of the specific information in the documents can be interpreted as optional.
  • Inadequate description and delineation of roles and responsibilities of different personnel, reporting mechanisms and the decision-making process for many important decisions.
  • Excessive marginally relevant material that detracts from more important information.
  • No indication of clear, formal, documented and mandatory training for most areas.

 I highly recommend interested persons read the report cover to cover , but some salient issues include the fact that there is “here is no formal mechanism for properly addressing outbreaks” – yet in their deluded, arrogant ‘wisdom’ they decided to MURDER all 350 animals in their facility last year at a purported – yes purported – it was LATER proven the “virulent strain of ringworm” they claimed justified the slaughter – NEVER EXISTED.  Further, as quoted from the Report: 
An additional concern with in-house testing is quality control. Improper use or interpretation of tests can lead to erroneous results being reported, as may have been the case in this ringworm 'outbreak' i.e. misinterpretation of the Fungassay screening test.

 Even the most basic requirements are flouted and “Currently, there is no requirement that animals be vaccinated against rabies prior to adoption.” This from an organization that purports to speak for the animals of ONTARIO?

 
This organization, which says styles itself the EXPERT on animal care, animal husbandry and animal welfare in the province of Ontario had as a directive to its employees instructions like:
For example, people are to "Walk through all rooms and ensure all dogs are ok ... .,

 OK? What in the name of GOD is OK? As in alive (possibly an important directive as the OSPCA is so keen to kill). Clean? Unstressed? Talk about vague and this from an organization which MAKES the directives and rules!

 
Kate the BITCH Macdonald and her minions lied outright in many of their dealings with the Toronto Humane Society last year. They lied about the “virulent ringworm” outbreak. There has been lie after lie to owners about their beloved pets which were summarily executed without even a chance to say goodbye. The lies are legion yet these people continue to rule.

 
What is wrong with the McGuinty government that they continue to allow this travesty of an organization to continue under the aegis of individuals who so clearly are liars, cheats and charlatans?

 
FIX this, McGuinty and FIX IT NOW.

 
Let our voices be heard at the highlest level of government; come to the Rally this Wednesday, June 22. 

 

 

Peaceful Protest at Newmarket OSPCA

WHEN:    THIS Wednesday, June 22, starting at 1400 hrs (2:00 p.m.)

WHEREOutside OSPCA Headquarters, 16586 Woodbine Avenue, Newmarket, ON

See Facebook details here.

An emphasis on the peaceful nature of this protest.  We are there to bear witness to the atrocities committed by the OSPCA and their management.  We are there to show the government and the people of Ontario that we remember.  We are there to be credible and sincere voices AGAINST the continuation of the OSPCA in its present guise under its present leadership.

Be there!! 


you GO Shirley!! Memphis, grow up and FACE your problems!

Shirley at Yes Biscuit has been doing a superlative job of bringing to light the atrocities at Memphis Animal Shelter (albiet "shelter" is a misnomer... more like Memphis Torture Chamber or Memphis Kill Room).  Two years ago, this instiution STARVED a healthy puppy to death.  This horrific deed promoted the installation of webcams so the public could keep tabs and the hiring of new manager - Matthew Pepper.

Astonishingly, as anyone who follows Biscuit can see (to their horror), being in camera seems to have had NO effect on the sitaution whatsoever.  MAS admits to a 70% kill rate with little to no effort going into creating a kinder and more hopeful environment for Memphis animals.  Shirley captures frame after frame of animals being dragged to the kill room, dogs being stuffed into TINY cages, cats being poked with prodded and puppies dumped into a garbage can, hauled straight to be killed.

It has astonished and perplexed me for many months now how the Memphis public stands by and watches this - how the City government continues to laude director Pepper and councillor after councillor shrugs and somehow DOESN'T see a problem.

Shirley began a "chip-in" account to provide rescue and care to animals who never see the light of day and are hidden from the public and offered no chance of adoption. 

In response, she received a pathetically couched piece of crap which threatens her with "legal action" based on an obscure piece of legislation that some law student probably spent days searching through archives for.  See Shirley's blog on it here.

KC Dog Blog covers it here.

Pet Connecton here.

Then Raised by Wolves and Smartdog weigh in here and here.

So rather than try to fix what is clearly a very broken system, they would rather waste money on threatening an individual who offers her time, money and effort to help some of the animals so summarily dismissed in Memphis Animal Shelter. 

Pathetic doesn't cover it.

Stand up and be counted Memphis citizens. The world is watching.  Your city is being portrayed in a supremely negative light - so where are you?

This is all too reminiscent of our own issues here with the OSPCA.

That organization too is politically shielded, tacitly and overtly supported despite horrendous and incontrovertible contraventions of law and morality and their upper echelon of management is also lauded .  Lies and omissions, immoral and outrageous - some major fixin needs doing in these organizations.

So let them hear our voices.

Wednesday, June 1, 2011

It's not the end... it's the BEGINNING

Biscuit gave an equally erudite overview on Fred's blog here.

The line wound from the front lobby, up the stairs and slid sinuously around, looping back upon itself as an unprecedented number of members turned out for last night’s Annual General Meeting at the Toronto Humane Society. Perhaps most striking were the number of young faces in the crowd – an encouraging sign of renewed interest in this venerable institution. There was also a respectable contingent of long-term donors, individuals who have unstintingly supported the THS through thick and thin for more years than I can count and provide the solid foundation of membership needed to keep this a viable and growing refuge for animals.

Overall, with a few exceptions, the meeting was far more professional and civil than I anticipated – a welcome relief. The numerous articles in the various media adequately cover the bare bones, I intend to make just a few salient points, garnered from various Board members through the evening and from the Strategic Plan provided by Board admin:

  • Wildlife Rehabilitation:  January 2012, THS is hoping to be reinstated by the Ministry of National Resources as a place certified to deal with wildlife (on a limited basis).
  • CVO: The THS has currently passed four out of a needed five inspections by the College of Veterinarians of Ontario (“CVO”) which would give them a 5 year accreditation from that body; Mr. Downey speculated that they had not received it to date (having anticipated it would have arrived mid-May) due to the uncertainty respecting who would be spearheading the organization up to this point
  • Future Plans: A Strategic Plan has been created which includes future plans for a low cost spay/neuter clinic, reinstallation of the right to take in strays, continued building of ties with rescues and other shelters and reopening the satellite office at Victoria Park
  • Victoria Park Satellite: Hope to reopen in 2012
     
  • Animal Investigations: Regain right to investigate animal investigations throughout GTA.
President Michael Downey exhorted all members to put aside their difference and concentrate on creating a healthy, viable THS. He pointed out that the dissonance and sniping “rattles the financial foundation of the animals that we are collectively trying to help.” Downey spearheaded a competent and professional team as the meeting moved forward. He provided figures and answers in response to the storm of accusations and insinuations which have been bandied about in the flurry of action leading up to the AGM.

Most notable at the start, was Mr. Downey’s report on the proxies submitted prior to last night: out of 704 valid proxies (there were a small number that were disallowed due, he indicated, primarily to individuals not signing them), 183 were Trow’s and the balance (504) were the current Board’s. To many who have worked tirelessly to reanimate the THS which teetered on the edge of dissolution for a while last year after the disastrous and horrific OSPCA raid last Spring, this was a welcome and hopeful signal that the current direction was being received positively. Interim CEO Christopher Barry gave a dry, but succinct report on the direction he feels the THS has been taking and why. He also lauded the efforts of the numerous committees and time and commitment from staff and volunteers.

After standard votes on passing meeting minutes, a concise auditor’s report and similar AGM business, the real reason most of us were there, arrived.

Candidates were grouped in contingents of 6 and listed alphabetically. Out of 18 candidates, one (Andrew Balodis) was ill but a speech from him was read out, several did not attend. The following are my own take on the ones who did talk:

Daniel Belanger: Daniel, who is a no-kill advocate based on Winograd’s equation (as outlined in Winograd’s book, Redemption) gave a passionate argument for making the THS into a shelter that reflects those values.

David Bronskill: Board-sanctioned candidate David Bronskill offered a balance of professional experience and what seemed genuine care for animals (he has 6 himself). While his election (with which I concur) brings the number of lawyers/legal persons on the Board to a curious high, my initial impression was that his slick presentation offered some possibilities and good ideas. Jury is out but cautiously hopeful on this.

Lisa Gibbens: This is where I digress from other reports – in that I thought her presentation unprofessional and at times, vindictive. Her comment “"They haven't been in the building since they were led away in handcuffs." was ill-advised, gratuitous and contemptible. It had no bearing on what she brings to the table as a candidate. {Note: it was this remark that agitated a member (the one with long blonde/gray hair quoted in some news stories) and resulted in his continued agitation and subsequent departure from the building escorted by police officers. His reaction was also out of line but so was her remark}.[Thanks to Anonymous - this gentlement was NOT escorted out as I had been told.]

Brenda Grant: From my perspective, Brenda had a sincere, well thought out presentation with solid animal experience to back her up. I think she would have made a terrific and solid Board member.

Bob Hambley: This was probably the most agitated candidate; Bob forcibly expressed his disgust with the manner in which the THS is being managed and yelled at members of the audience who disagreed. My biggest issue with his address is his description of Toronto Animal Services as a “killing machine”. He also asserted the THS routinely handed over animals to be “murdered” – which is simply not true. Further, I know from my own research, TAS while not perfect, has made HUGE positive changes and has an increasingly close and positive relationship with THS wherein they figure out which animals would thrive in which environment.

Carol Hroncek: Carol, although somewhat nervous, acquitted herself well.

Margaret Ann Johnson: My own impression of Ms. Johnson was her address was somewhat rambling and disjointed. Through justifiably proud of her history (going back to her own mother) in animal welfare – I found her focus was somewhat uncertain and her points unsubstantiated and unclear.

Dean Maher: Dean gave a passionate if somewhat “off-the-cuff” speech which was backed up by his current efforts at City Hall to ban the sale of dogs and cats at pet store. Someone to keep an eye on for future elections.

Tony Marner: Tony, who presents himself as a “long-time” dog walker (which many long-term dog walkers I know would dispute), trotted out the same tired “truths” and accusations that other Trow slate members spouted. As I already dealt with his assertions in a former blog, will leave it there.

Ian McConachie: Same old, same old – remarkably similar remarks from many of the Trow slate.

Crystal Tomusiak: To my mind, Crystal gave the best speech of the evening. Taking the high road, she refrained from Trow bashing and gave a passionate and honest talk about the direction she envisions the THS to take. Backed up with some real research, Crystal’s talk struck a chord with most of the audience.

Tim Trow: Tim appeared fragile and somewhat nervous. There was a part of me that felt bad for him (how the mighty are fallen). His plea for the “animals that aren’t here” struck a chord (and has an element of truth to it), which was undermined by his promise to bring back the “right” to take in strays and wildlife. The reality is that these privileges were lost under his aegis due to mismanagement and a gross dereliction of duty and an indisputable betrayal of the animals he purported to “save”. My own feeling about Tim is that his vision is quite wonderful (which I’ve asserted before) but ego, a hoarder mentality and a determined and stubborn refusal to see realities end up derailing any possibility of bringing that vision to fruition.

Thomas G. Ungar: Mr. Ungar, who served on the Board for the past year, presented a decent argument for re-election, but to no avail.

Ken Wood: Mr. Wood was a pleasant, quirky surprise to me as I went in ambivalent about his candidacy, knowing nothing about him. But he has the type of fanaticism I can live with so found him quite charming and sincere. If he can bring the same determination to animal welfare as he does to his defence of trees, we have a good Board member there. [UPDATE: Re: Anonymous below - didn't realize he said that at the end - we on the patio missed a bit and while some could be heard clearly, others not so much - thanks for that - I think it might have changed my mind too]

Needless to say, these are my opinion only on the speeches and based on the response from the audience, not everyone was in agreement. I will say I was disgusted by the occasional lapse in civility – a democratic process must allow for ALL viewpoints to be considered. Heckling and name-calling were unprofessional and ultimately, detracted from the validity of the proceedings.

Finally, during a Question and Answer session, one individual (unfortunately didn't catch her name) brought up a valid point respecting voting.  There was some confusion as there were individuals who had tendered proxies who then turned up - and were entitled to vote on various motions (if not on the candidates).  This individual pointed out that in the confusion it was entirely possible that someone could have voted TWICE on candidates.  She tendered a motion to look carefully at the voting protocol and fix this potentially problematic form of procedure.

Finally, as a member of the THS, a very BIG thank you to the Scrutineers Wendy Lopez, J.D.  and Grant Bowers, LLB who generously donated their time and considerable expertise to scrutinize the AGM, thus saving (as CEO Barry indicated) upwards of $10,000 of donor money which can now be used for the animals.