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FEATURES
Home Sweet Home
For those who helped rescue and reunite Gulf Coast animals in the wake of Hurricane Katrina, the name of the Louisiana SPCA may recall images of a flooded shelter, stranded pets, and desperate families. But this spring, the organization offered up a new paradigm: a facility so progressive that the construction crew couldn’t believe it was meant for animals.
The Costs of Dogfighting
The public’s ignorance about organized dogfighting came to an end last summer with the indictment of Atlanta Falcons quarterback Michael Vick. The outcry against the bloodsport was deafening—and gratifying to those who’ve long coped with the burdens of investigating dogfighters and caring for their victims.
DEPARTMENTS
Letterbox
Scoop
Coffee Break
In your space, you talk about the signs of progress you’ve seen in the sheltering field—and the challenges we still face.
Creature Feature
Like many of the other critters dubbed “starter pets” by the retail pet industry, guinea pigs turn up at shelters all too frequently. Find out how to keep your little pigs happy and healthy. (Hint: hay and hiding places help.)
The “101” Department
Shelters that seize animals from dogfighters or abusers often have to hold the victims for months while the cases make their way through the court system. Learn how bond and forfeiture laws can help lessen the burdens of long-term holding.
Q & A
Social marketing expert Caryn Ginsberg explains how targeted messaging can drive social change.
Shelter Medicine
Alert! Alert! Shelters are seeing outbreaks of virulent systemic feline calicivirus … or are they? In this issue, Dr. Kate Hurley explains the basics of diagnosing and controlling strains of FCV. Her advice: Don’t panic.
The Behavior Department
Trainer and behaviorist Nan Arthur explains how new dog owners can help their pooches make a less stressful transition from the shelter to the home.
Off Leash
An Arizona shelter’s pop-culture promo boosts adoption rates for cats.
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