A shy cat has been through experiences that have left her/him feeling nervous and uprooted from a familiar environment. It will probably begin responding to a new home in about a week or two. Just leave the cat alone for awhile so that it can explore its new surroundings. They’ll walk around and sniff everything and try to find a favorite spot to become “invisible” in.

A feral cat is a totally different creature. It does not trust people and will take months if not a year or two to domesticate or trust the person with the can opener. While patience and compassion can work here, you must be aware that this is not just a shy cat. Sometimes they don’t come around and you just share space until one of you leaves the planet.

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All felines CCHS puts up for adoption are known to use the litter box. However, it is desirable to confine your new pet to the room with the litter box when she is first brought home, so she can learn its location.

• Buy a litter box for each cat in the household, since some cats will not use a box used by another cat or may prevent other pets from using a particular box.
• Place the litter box in a quiet location that is easily accessible to your pet. If disturbed or frightened while using the box, your pet may start eliminating elsewhere. Your pet may avoid using the box if it is too far away or takes a lot of effort to reach.
• There are several types of litter available. Most cats prefer “clumping” litter over clay litter.
• Reduce litter box odor by removing solid waste daily, and, if you use clay litter, changing all the litter at least weekly.

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Home Alone? Basic Time Management for Your Dog

When was the last time you heard someone say, “I have more time on my hands than I know what to do with?” Probably never. Practically no one feels there are enough hours in the day. To make sure the dog gets his or her due, conscientious dog owners schedule time for walking and feeding the dog, training and playing games, and possibly also participating in organized dog sports, such as tracking, flyball, agility, or obedience. But how much thought do we give to how the dog spends the rest of her day, especially those portions of it when we are absent?

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Although cats are smart, alert, and adroit, they are no match for the many perils that await them outside. That’s why the average outdoor cat lives only a third as long than the cat who’s kept safely inside. Consider these threats:

Disease - Feline leukemia and feline immunodeficiency virus are only two of the diseases that are passed from cat to cat and, once contracted, result in the eventual death of the pet. Outside cats are even more likely than dogs to dome into contact with rabid wild animals.

Parasites - Outdoor cats suffer from fleas, ticks, ear mites, and worms that indoor cats are not generally exposed to.

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by Mary “Tief” Tieffenbrunn - CCHS Humane Education Chair and volunteer for Illinois Bird Dog Rescue

What is a breed rescue group?

A breed rescue group is usually a group of volunteers that work together to shelter and rehome dogs of a specific breed. Most breed rescue groups obtain homeless dogs from over crowded animal shelters, impound facilities, and owner surrenders. Most breed rescue groups keep their rescued dogs in “foster homes” rather than in a kennel environment. This way, the dog’s quality of life immediately improves upon entering the rescue and he has the opportunity to learn how to be a well-behaved house dog before he is adopted and goes to his new “forever home.”

A few things you can expect:

Many breed rescues are run entirely by volunteers. Sometimes you will not get an immediate return phone call or email about your inquiry or application because the volunteers are very busy taking care of dogs and their other responsibilities. Dealing with a breed rescue can require some patience.

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Want to Help Reduce the Number of Animals Surrendered to Animal Care and Control (AC&C)?

Want to Help Animals Stay with their Families?

Volunteer with the SAFETY NET PROGRAM!

SUNDAY DEC 2 and FRIDAY DEC 7 are our next Volunteer Trainings!

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Planning a trip to the Big Apple with your big pooch? Stay in comfort at one of many pet-friendly hotels… (click to read entire article…)

New York City parks are dog friendly. The Parks Department has designated certain areas within parks welcome dogs. Park hours are 9am-9pm. When using dog friendly areas, the Parks Department requires that owners have proof of current dog license and rabies vaccination. Two types of areas exist which allow the owner and dog to enjoy NYC parks:

Dog Runs: Large, fensed in areas in which dogs can excerise unleashed. These runs are designed for play, while providing good drainage, safe lighting, and health plantings.

Off Leash Areas: Dogs are permitted to be off leash from 9am to 9pm. Park Rules must be observed at all times.
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Written by Veterinarian, Dr. Christianne Schelling

If you are considering declawing your cat, please read this. It will only take a moment, and it will give you valuable information to help you in your decision.

First, you should know that declawing is pretty much an American thing, it’s something people do for their own convenience without realizing what actually happens to their beloved cat. In England declawing is termed “inhumane” and “unnecessary mutilation.” I agree. In many European countries it is illegal. I applaud their attitude. (click to read entire article…)