Kids N Kritters

April 27: Are You Moving?

2010-04-28T14:01:00.000-07:00

It is getting close to the summer, and that is when most families move. But, it is not only the humans that move, the animals do too! Here a few things you should do before you move to your new town:

- Check and see if there is a breed band. Many cities have banned certain breeds. Because of this, you may have to purchase a special license to have your dog.

- Inquire about leash laws. In some towns, certain breed are required to wear a certain type of leash or a type of leash, such as a retractable one cannot be used in public areas.

- See how many pets you are allowed to own. Sometimes there are limits on how many dogs you can own at once.

By knowing these basic facts and finding out other bits of information about pet ownership laws in your new town will make for a happy move!

April 5: Be Kind To Animals Week!!!

2010-04-05T07:18:00.000-07:00

This week is Be Kind to Animals Week. If you would like more information and want to enter a really cool contest, please visit the link below.

http://www.americanhumane.org/protecting-animals/special-events/be-kind-to-animals-week/kid-contest.html

Feb is Dental Health Month

2010-02-01T08:15:00.000-08:00

Bad breath and yellowing teeth are two of the earliest signs of poor dental health. Poor dental health can lead to bigger problems for your pet, such as kidney, liver, or heart disease.

There are number of symptoms to look for to determine if your animal is suffering with dental disease:
- Bad breath
- Tatar build up
- Swollen, receding, or bleeding gums
- Fractured teeth
- Change in eating habits

There are many ways to help prevent tooth decay:
- Brush your pet's teeth
- Have their teeth examined regularly and professional cleaned
- Use special treats and foods that promote health teeth

For more information about Dental Month; visit www.avma.org

Dogs And Winter

2010-01-18T14:18:00.000-08:00

There are many things that you can do for your four-legged friend to keep them safe and warm during the cold winter months. Click on the link below to find out what you can do:

http://www.akc.org/public_education/winter_care.cfm

November 16: Thanksgiving and Pets

2009-11-17T20:08:00.000-08:00

Thanksgiving Safety Tips

‘Tis the season for friends, family and holiday feasts—but also for possible distress for our animal companions. Pets won’t be so thankful if they munch on undercooked turkey or a pet-unfriendly floral arrangement, or if they stumble upon an unattended alcoholic drink.
Check out the following tips from ASPCA experts for a fulfilling Thanksgiving that your pets can enjoy, too.

Talkin’ Turkey
If you decide to feed your pet a little nibble of turkey, make sure it’s boneless and well-cooked. Don't offer her raw or undercooked turkey, which may contain salmonella bacteria.
Sage AdviceSage can make your Thanksgiving stuffing taste delish, but it and many other herbs contain essential oils and resins that can cause gastrointestinal upset and central nervous system depression to pets if eaten in large quantities. Cats are especially sensitive to the effects of certain essential oils.

No Bread Dough
Don't spoil your pet’s holiday by giving him raw bread dough. According to ASPCA experts, when raw bread dough is ingested, an animal's body heat causes the dough to rise in his stomach. As it expands, the pet may experience vomiting, severe abdominal pain and bloating, which could become a life-threatening emergency, requiring surgery.

Don't Let Them Eat Cake
If you’re baking up Thanksgiving cakes, be sure your pets keep their noses out of the batter, especially if it includes raw eggs—they could contain salmonella bacteria that may lead to food poisoning.

Too Much of a Good Thing
A few small boneless pieces of cooked turkey, a taste of mashed potato or even a lick of pumpkin pie shouldn’t pose a problem. However, don't allow your pets to overindulge, as they could wind up with a case of stomach upset, diarrhea or even worse—an inflammatory condition of the pancreas known as pancreatitis. In fact, it’s best keep pets on their regular diets during the holidays.

A Feast Fit for a Kong
While the humans are chowing down, give your cat and dog their own little feast. Offer them Nylabones or made-for-pet chew bones. Or stuff their usual dinner—perhaps with a few added tidbits of turkey, vegetables (try sweet potato or green beans) and dribbles of gravy—inside a Kong toy. They’ll be happily occupied for awhile, working hard to extract their dinner from the toy.

October 21: Dogs and the Cold

2009-10-21T14:31:00.000-07:00

Heating Up Chilly Dogs
Cold Weather Tips to Keep Pets Warm
By Bernadine Cruz, DVM
Provided by Pfizer

When the seasons move from summer into fall and winter, people adjust their routines and plan for colder weather. At the same time, take a few minutes to prepare your pets for the changing seasons. The following is a list of dos and don'ts to help you give your pets the cold-weather care they deserve.

Do provide proper shelter:

If you can't keep your dog indoors during winter months, provide an elevated structure with a door to protect pets from wind and weather.

Provide dry, clean bedding materials such as straw or blankets and replace bedding if it becomes damp or wet.

Find a house large enough for you dog to be able to stand up and turn around, but small enough to retain her body heat.

Do provide indoor dogs with a warm sleeping area away from drafts.

Do use caution around bodies of water. Keep pets away from rivers, ponds and lakes as they begin to freeze. Continue to use caution even when the water appears completely frozen.

Do keep hair around paw pads trimmed. Less hair will help keep paws free of ice and snow, which can quickly ball up between footpads and create uncomfortable walking conditions for pets.

Do check paw pads for small cuts and cracks. Consider dog boots for dogs that react negatively to walking on ice and snow - especially dogs that react to snow removal products.

Do clean your dog's paws after walks to remove salt and snow removal chemicals, which can be toxic to pets.

Do check your dog's ears, tail and feet for frostbite. Just as dogs are sensitive to hot summer sidewalks, cold winter walkways may cause pain or contribute to frostbite. A dog that continually lifts individual legs off the ground during a winter walk may feel the effects of frostbite. Frostbitten skin may appear red or gray. If you suspect frostbite, wrap your dog's feet in a blanket or towels to gradually warm them and contact your veterinarian.

Do provide the proper type and amount of food for the season. Dogs housed outdoors and dogs that participate in strenuous outdoor activities may require additional food during colder weather. On the other hand, indoor dogs that exercise less frequently in colder months may need less food.

Do provide adequate fresh, unfrozen water. If your dog lives outside, consider investing in a heated water bowl. Indoor dogs also may require more water to combat dry winter air.

Do invest in a pet sweater for shorthaired breeds. Watch for telltale signs that your pet is cold. Like us, pets will shiver in response to being chilled.

Do keep puppies and older dogs indoors except for short periods of time. As with humans, young and old dogs are more susceptible to the effects of the cold.

Do keep dogs on a leash - especially during bad weather or snowstorms when they can lose their ability to find their way by smell.

Do pay attention to snow removal. Avoid piling snow near fences and creating an escape route for curious pets.

Do keep identification tags updated in the event your dog runs away.

Do clean up antifreeze spills immediately. Many dogs like the sweet smell and taste and, unfortunately, even very small amounts can be lethal to them. If you suspect that your dog has ingested antifreeze, take your dog to your veterinarian immediately. There may be time for Antizol-Vet, an anti-freeze antidote, to help your dog. Also consider using an animal-friendly anti-freeze.

Do maintain your pet's grooming schedule. Regular brushing keeps your dog's coat supple and prepared for the cold. However, when you bathe your pet, be sure to dry his coat thoroughly before allowing him outside.

Do visit your veterinarian for a checkup before the cold weather strikes. Cold weather may exacerbate certain conditions, such as arthritis. Sudden changes in the weather or drops in temperature may affect pets suffering from osteoarthritis.

Don't suddenly house an indoor dog outdoors. Dogs require a month or more (as seasons change) to become accustomed to lower winter temperatures.

Don't keep your dog outside in all conditions. Pay attention to the thermometer. If it dips too far below freezing, it's too cold for any dog - even those accustomed to being outside.

Don't treat all dogs alike. While some breeds such as Alaskan malamutes or huskies may be able to spend long periods out of doors in cold weather, other breeds such as greyhounds or Dobermans to not have the same protective fur.

Don't leave pets alone in cars during cold weather months. When the engine is off, a car can act as a refrigerator, holding in the cold.

Dr. Bernadine Cruz, DVM, is an associate veterinarian at Laguna Hills Animal Hospital in Laguna Hills, California. She specializes in small animal medicine and has been practicing veterinary medicine for more than 16 years. She also serves as a volunteer veterinarian for a number of organizations and has done veterinary consulting for national television programs.

September 24: Service Dogs and Autism

2009-09-24T06:51:00.000-07:00

On Matthew Plunk's third birthday, his parents, Jeff and Jennifer, received some life-changing news: Their son had autism.

Matthew Plunk's parents say they have seen a vast improvement in their autistic son since he got a service dog.

The diagnosis came as no surprise to the Plunks, who had long struggled to contain their son's emotional outbursts and antisocial behaviors.

"He had a lot of fears," said Jennifer. "Just a truck going by would make him want to climb up you."

After years of trying different therapies and experimental diets for Matthew, the Plunks noticed he had made significant progress but still suffered from intense anxiety and difficulty interacting with strangers.

"The biggest thing I was looking for [was] a calmness for Matthew," said Jennifer. "His mind is just going 90 miles an hour. It's like his foot is always on the gas pedal."

So when Matthew was 6, Jennifer went online in search of something else she hoped could help him -- a dog. She had heard about service dogs specially trained to work with children with autism so she researched a program that would help her find a canine companion for Matthew.

"I really believed in the calming impact that a dog can have," said Jennifer.

Her research led her to 4 Paws for Ability, one of several organizations that trains and places dogs to work specifically with autistic children, helping them to become calmer, more social and more comfortable in the world.

As part of their application to the training program, the Plunks submitted hours of home video to demonstrate the problems that Matthew was having, as well as lengthy descriptions of their family's habits and challenges.

Once accepted into the program, they were then required to raise the $12,000 necessary to train the dog, which they did through the generosity of friends, family and their community.

With the money raised, the Plunks headed to the 4 Paws center for a two-week training course in which they were introduced to Matthew's new service dog, Ajax, a Great Pyrenees-boxer mix.

"It was amazing," said Jennifer, describing their first day at the center. Matthew, who had always struggled with forming new bonds with strangers, recognized a picture of Ajax and immediately ran to him.

"It was very sweet," Jennifer said. "The first day of training, he said several times 'I love you, Ajax.' It was hard not to cry."

One year later, Matthew quickly calls Ajax his best friend and can barely be separated from his dog. He is noticeably calmer and more responsive, more attentive and focused on his schoolwork and he happily interacts with strangers in public -- typically to answer questions about Ajax.

"I can see a difference in him," said Jennifer. "Matthew is calmer. He enjoys having Ajax around."

Matthew's father, Jeff, agrees. "He really had a hard time even sitting still, and now he's much more calm."

Since Ajax's arrival, Matthew is also more confident and less prone to meltdowns, the intense and often inexplicable emotional outbursts that often go hand in hand with autism.

The Plunks are just one of many families ABC News spoke to that have had a profoundly positive experience by bringing an autism assistance dog into their home. As word spreads, hundreds of American families are now seeking the benefits of service dogs for their autistic kids.

And the Oscar Goes To...Animals!

2009-08-31T12:35:00.000-07:00

American Humane is the only organization allowed to watch over the safety of animals on the sets of movies, TV shows, commercials and music videos. Before taping beings with an animal, a American Humane Certified Animals Safety Representatives must be on set to make sure all the American Humane's "Guidelines for the Safe Use of Animals in Filmed Media" are followed.

Let's meet one of the Animal Super Stars!

Beverly Hills Chihuahua
One of the lead dogs that played "Papi" was a day away from being euthanized before a trainer discovered him in a California shelter. The dog now lives with the movie's head trainer. Many trainers find their animals at animal shelters.

Tips for Recognizing and Caring for a Sick Pet

2009-08-10T05:28:00.000-07:00

Here's what to watch for:
- Animals will try to hide their sickness.
- Be aware of any little changes in your pet's appearance or behavior; this may mean your pet is sick
- Know which signs means it is an emergency; such as a bloated, hard tummy, excessive vomiting or diarrhea, seizures, and inability to stand up. Call a vet right away if you see any of these signs.
- Once your pet has been to the vet, make sure you follow all your vets instructions, including diet and medication.
- Report any worsening symptoms or new ones to your vet immediately.
- Make sure your pet finishes all medications, and you take your pet back for a check up.

Ready To Adopt A Cat?

2009-07-23T08:40:00.001-07:00

You've made a wise choice: A cat is a lovable, charming pet that offers endless fun and entertainment. But cats may only be lovable and charming if you treat them the way they should be treated, the way you yourself would want to be treated.

So, if you're thinking of adopting a cat, keep in mind these 10 tips about how to keep him healthy and happy

Like dogs, cats need to be fed good, nutritious food regularly, at least once a day.
Cats also need plenty of cool, clean, fresh water. Adult cats do NOT need milk, which might make them fat and give them diarrhea.
Keep your cat inside your home with you. But keep him in a separate room from birds and fish, which cats will attack. Also keep him away from house plants, which cats may destroy. Certain plants are also poisonous to cats.
Do NOT automatically have your cat declawed. Declawing has been compared to removing your fingernails. Would you like it? To prevent your cat from scratching or tearing your furniture, trim his claws regularly and provide him with a small rug or scratching post. Verbal scolding can also work wonders.
Unlike dogs, cats do NOT need to go outside. Cats are almost always naturally housebroken and will use a litter box even at an early age. Allowed outside alone. cats often get lost or hurt and sometimes get killed. Also, don't leave your cat alone in a room with an open window.
Make sure your cat always wears identification, even if you never let him outside. Agile and clever, cats sometimes manage to get outside by themselves. Provide the animals with a comfortable, expandable collar and an attached identification tag with your name, address and phone number on it. Consider purchasing a dog license for your cat. Also consider having your cat tattooed by a qualified veterinarian.
Unlike most dogs, cats do NOT need to be bathed. A healthy cat keeps himself clean and well groomed.
Make sure your cat gets good veterinary care, including all necessary examinations and shots.
Have your cat spayed or neutered by a veterinarian or at the ASPCA once the animal reaches maturity (usually after six or seven months of age). Your cat will enjoy a longer, healthier life, there'll be fewer strays on the streets and you'll be spared the hassles of a cat in heat.
Give your cat plenty of love and affection. Though cats are more independent than dogs, they thrive on your companionship.

Also, if you do plan to adopt a cat from the ASPCA, we recommend that you consider TWO cats. Two are company for each other - and two will bring more love into your life!

Stay Safe This Summer

2009-07-07T07:02:00.001-07:00

Kids N Kritters educators are making the rounds this summer, teaching kids the keys to having a fun and safe time with pets this summer.
When you see a stray dog, for example, you should "be a tree," standing still quietly with your head down, so the dog won't feel threatened. Before petting a dog who is with his owner, be sure to ask permission, then let the dog sniff the back of your hand first so he knows you're a friend!
To arrange for the Kids N Kritters team to visit your summer camp or class, email carrieann@aarfatlanta.org.

Have a fun and safe summer!

Dogs and Chocolate

2009-06-17T07:43:00.000-07:00

It seems that chocolate makes the world go around, and in almost every household you will find this delicious delicacy. Eating chocolate seems to be the great American pastime. It gives us a sense of well being and is a favorite comfort food. In over 60 percent of the homes that have this delicious treat available, you will also find a hungry and curious dog.

Unfortunately that combination does not mix well. So what can chocolate do to your dog, and why is it considered poison?

Dogs and puppies do not have the ability as we humans do to digest a simple chemical found in chocolate called "Theobromine." This chemical has a very harsh effect on the animal’s body causing severe trauma and oftentimes death.

How much chocolate is too much? It is important to know just how much chocolate can produce negative effects on your dog: that amount is 100-150 milligrams. That measurement does not mean much to most people, so to simplify it, if you have a 20-pound dog, that means to reach the level of becoming poisoned he or she would have to eat about 10 ounces, depending on the type of chocolate. Bakers chocolate and unsweetened chocolate are harsher types for any dog to eat only because the chocolate is purer therefore they contain a higher dosage of Theobromine than the regular candy bar type chocolate.

If you suspect your animal has eaten chocolate, what signs do you look for? Signs occur quickly so even if there is any question as to whether your animal has consumed chocolate or not, take the animal to the vet. Do not wait to see if the animal will be alright because any delay in treatment can be devastating. Your dog, if untreated, can quickly go into convulsions, have arrhythmia, stop breathing and go into a coma.

First your dog may start vomiting on its own. If not you can induce vomiting with a hydrogen peroxide solution of half peroxide and half water.

The animal will also experience severe diarrhea, which can cause the animal to dehydrate quickly.

Seek medical help immediately. Be sure to take the vet the unfinished chocolate if any is left and any wrappings from the chocolate. This will help the vet to identify the type of chocolate and the concentration of the candy.

The vet will begin treatment and induce vomiting if vomiting has not already occurred. Usually the vet will use activated charcoal to induce. The vet will also start an IV for hydration and also to administer medication. The vet will also administer anti-seizure medication because animals that have ingested chocolate have a ninety eight percent chance of having severe seizures. If your animal is having extreme symptoms or cardiac problems, he or she will easily be able to give those cardiac medications through the IV. The stay after this treatment in an easy case is usually two days, although in more extreme instances the hospital stay for your animal could be weeks.

The best medicine in these cases is prevention. If sweets such as chocolate are a frequent snack in your household take care to remove them from anywhere your pet happens to be traveling in your home. An ounce of prevention is in this case, worth a pound of cure.

Your Pets and Summertime

2009-06-03T04:53:00.000-07:00

In summertime, the living isn’t always easy for our animal friends. Dogs and cats can suffer from the same problems humans do, such as overheating, dehydration and even sunburn. By taking some simple precautions, you can celebrate the season and keep your pets happy and healthy!

- Never leave your pet alone in a vehicle. Even with the windows open, a parked automobile can quickly become a deadly furnace in no time. Parking in the shade offers little protection, as the sun shifts during the day.

- Always carry a gallon thermos filled with cold, fresh water when traveling with your pet.

- The right time for playtime is in the cool of the early morning or evening, but never after a meal or when the weather is humid.

- Street smarts: When the temperature is very high, don’t let your dog stand on hot asphalt. His or her body can heat up quickly, and sensitive paw pads can burn. Keep walks during these times to a minimum.

- A day at the beach is a no-no, unless you can guarantee a shaded spot and plenty of fresh water for your companion. Salty dogs should be rinsed off after a dip in the ocean.

- Provide fresh water and plenty of shade for animals kept outdoors; a properly constructed doghouse serves best. Bring your dog or cat inside during the heat of the day to rest in a cool part of the house.

- Be especially sensitive to older and overweight animals in hot weather. Brachycephalic or snub-nosed dogs such as bulldogs, pugs, Boston terriers, Lhasa apsos and shih tzus, as well as those with heart or lung diseases, should be kept cool in air-conditioned rooms as much as possible.

- When walking your dog, steer clear of areas that you suspect have been sprayed with insecticides or other chemicals. And please be alert for coolant or other automotive fluid leaking from your vehicle. Animals are attracted to the sweet taste, and ingesting just a small amount can be fatal. Call your veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435 if you suspect that your animal has been poisoned.

- Good grooming can stave off summer skin problems, especially for dogs with heavy coats. Shaving the hair to a one-inch length—never down to the skin, please, which robs Rover of protection from the sun—helps prevent overheating. Cats should be brushed often.

- Do not apply any sunscreen or insect repellent product to your pet that is not labeled specifically for use on animals. Ingestion of sunscreen products can result in drooling, diarrhea, excessive thirst and lethargy. The misuse of insect repellent that contains DEET can lead to neurological problems.

- Having a backyard barbecue? Always keep matches, lighter fluid, citronella candles and insect coils out of pets' reach.

- Please make sure that there are no open, unscreened windows or doors in your home through which animals can fall or jump.

- Stay alert for signs of overheating in pets, which include excessive panting and drooling and mild weakness, along with an elevated body temperature.

Cats and Water

2009-05-22T09:20:00.000-07:00

Cats mix with water like, well...oil and water.

Why do cats take an interest in water but don't mix with it? Bonnie Beaver, DVM, a professor of small animal medicine and surgery at the Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine and the author of Feline Behavior: A Guide for Veterinarians, says it's not that cats don't like water. After all, they drink it every day. It's just that they don't really need to get wet.

According to Dr. Beaver, ancestors of our modern house cats lived in semi-arid regions of Africa. These wild cats took water from their food. By necessity, they learned to live without a source of drinking water. Our pets would have been very different if they had evolved from tigers, which live in wet jungles and are quite comfortable with water.

Wayne Hunthausen, DVM, who practices in Westwood, Kansas, and has co-authored the Handbook of Behavior Problems of the Dog and Cat, also notes that cats aren't forced to swim for their dinner. "Their prey is land-based," he says, "and they don't need to swim in the water to hunt for food."

So cats don't hate the water. It just seems that way because instinct they inherited from over hundreds of generations tells them there's no good reason to dip their toes in.

Cats are notoriously nit-picky--don't forget about cats' fussy grooming habits, the doctors say. Water can rub a cat's coat the wrong way. That means lots of licks to get every hair back in place!

Dog Safety

2009-05-15T09:42:00.000-07:00

It's almost time for summer vacation, which means playing outside and enjoying the sunshine. While you're outside, you may see dogs you don't know. What should you do if you are face to face with a strange dog? Below are some hints to keep both you and the dog safe.

If The Owner IS Present
- Approach the dog's owner first and ask permission
- Say "Hello" after permission is given and approach slowly; do not run up to a dog
- Hold your hand out, palm down, and let the dog sniff you
- Let the dog decide how close he wants to get and enjoy your new friend

If the Owners IS NOT Present
- Do not scream and run
- Use a loud, firm voice, tell the dog to "Go Home!"
- If the dog doesn't leave, don't panic. Ask yourself, "What is he doing? Is he just curiously watching you? Are his ears perked and tail wagging? If this is how he looks, just walk away calmly.
- If the dog is standing in a threatening manner, with his ears laid back along his head, his body tense, his tail up (it may or may not be wagging slowly, don't be fooled), this a threatening posture. Any sudden move on your part may cause him to attack.

Start to walk away slowly. Do not make any sudden moves. If he starts to come toward you and lunges, drop into a "turtle" position on the ground and yell for help.

Following these basic tips will help keep you and dogs around you safe and having fun this summer!

What You Can Do!

2009-05-08T12:44:00.000-07:00

Everyone has a voice! Let your voice be heard by writing letters to express your feelings about cruelties to animals by visiting http://www.kindnews.org/
KIND News lists many areas that need your help. Also, at KIND News you'll find contests, stories, and many other interesting items.
You may be young, but you are powerful; let your voice be heard!

Hotel for Dogs Premiere!

2009-01-26T12:51:00.000-08:00

Thanks to everyone who came out to see Kids N Kritters at the Hotel for Dogs movie premiere at Atlantic Station! Throughout the day last Saturday, kids visited the Kids N Kritters station at the theater to color, work on educational activities, and win cool prizes. Rusty the Rescue Dog was a very popular visitor, and kids of all ages learned about animal rescue and the importance of adopting homeless pets. Hopefully more kids will turn into animal rescuers themselves, just like the stars of the movie!

A Birthday Gift for Homeless Pets

2008-12-16T13:33:00.000-08:00

Kindergarten student Simi showed what giving is all about this month when she decided to dedicate her birthday to helping the homeless pets of AARF! This generous little girl asked all her birthday party guests to donate to AARF instead of bringing her gifts. The pets of AARF are so grateful for her sweet gift.

Simi, shown here with her rescued lab mix, Sophie, he is learning to read, and loves to draw, sing, dance and play with her American Girl dolls.

If you would like to do your own fundraising project for AARF, please e-mail info@kids-n-kritters.org.

Howl-o-Ween Costume Contest and Adoption Day!

2008-10-28T15:27:00.000-07:00

AARF's Howl-o-Ween Costume Contest and Adoption Day at Mom and Pup's in Marietta was a huge success! Check out all the fabulous costumes! Thanks to everyone who brought their pets and supported AARF, and thanks to Brye of the Campbell High School Junior Humane Society for all her help!

Vote for Atlanta Animal Rescue Friends!

2008-09-24T11:48:00.001-07:00

CHS JHS Off to a Great Start for 2008-09

2008-09-09T07:01:00.000-07:00

The Campbell High School Junior Humane Society is off to a fantastic start this school year! Nearly 40 people attended the group's first meeting (more than the classroom would hold!), and JHS leader Brye hopes even more members will attend the next meeting. The group is planning many exciting projects for the school year, including fundraisers for homeless pets, field trips to animal shelters and education presentations for younger students.

Want to start a Junior Humane Society at your school? Email
info@kids-n-kritters.org for help and ideas.

Learn With AARF's Library

2008-09-04T09:52:00.000-07:00

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Doing the Right Thing for Strays

2008-09-03T11:46:00.000-07:00

AARF would like to send a special thank-you out to Marietta High School student Brian Rambo and two of his friends, who were spotted by an AARF volunteer as they rescued two dogs from a busy road near Kennesaw Mountain in Marietta. The teens stopped their truck, gently wrangled the wandering golden retriever and his smaller companion, and later located the dogs' owners, returning them home safely. With all the scary things that can happen to pets on the loose, these two were very fortunate to have been picked up by Brian and his friends. To learn what to do if you spot a stray, click her e.

Kids N Kritters Goes Back to Camp

2008-08-08T08:45:00.000-07:00

Kids N Kritters and trainer Lennox Gavin of PAWS-A-TIVE Results Dog Training were welcomed back by the Noah's Ark program at the Marcus Jewish Community Center of Atlanta. A new group of campers had fun learning what to do to stay safe around dogs, and how to recognize unsafe dog behavior. The kids acted out scenes and played Simon Says to show what they learned!

Joy's New Project

2008-07-23T10:47:00.000-07:00

Last year, 11-year-old Joy set her sights on creating an animal shelter for homeless pets called The Joy of Joy's Pets. In March, she raised money for AARF with a Poop-a-Thon that cleaned up her neighborhood and raised $250. Now, she's creating a school program that will teach elementary school children about animal rescue, and encourage them to think about adopting a rescue pet.

Click here to visit Joy's blog and read the latest on her project!

MJCC Summer Camp Meets Avery the Dog

2008-07-10T15:11:00.000-07:00

The campers in the Noah's Ark program at the Marcus Jewish Community Center of Atlanta were treated to a visit from Avery the dog this week. AARF partner dog trainer Lennox Gavin introduced the kids to his dog, Avery, and taught them the safe way to approach a new dog, as well as the signs to look for that a dog is unsafe to pet or play with.

The children learned that if they see a strange dog, they should "be a tree" (see picture below), standing still with their arms down, and that if a dog approaches them snarling, they should "be a rock," curling into a ball on the ground. They also learned how to recognize if a dog is "safe" or "unsafe" by its behavior.

The campers took turns "meeting" Avery, asking Lennox first the key question: "May I pet your dog?" and then asking Avery to sit.

As a grand finale, Avery showed off all her skillful tricks, including "saying her prayers," and "dancing."

A big thank you goes out to the Marcus Jewish Community Center of Atlanta and the Noah's Ark campers!

Summer Camp at Country Club of Roswell

2008-07-03T08:45:00.000-07:00

The campers at the Country Club of Roswell welcomed Kids N Kritters this week. Campers learned about being responsible pet owners by providing the things pets need, like baths, walks, food, water, treats, toys and lots of attention! To show what they had learned, they put together a beautiful pet-themed collage--check it out!

A big thank-you goes out to these fabulous kids and their counselors!

Summer Boredom Setting In?

2008-06-25T10:04:00.000-07:00

Check out these great ideas from the The Humane Society of the United States Youth!

The end of the school year can mean the beginning of long idle days for young people. Or, it can mean time for summer camps, animal shelter collections, work on wildlife habitats, and teaching others to be kind. Use our summer project ideas to roll up your sleeves to help animals!
To see how young people are making a difference for animals all around the country, meet the 2008 KIND Kid and Humane Teen of the Year.

Finding Forever Homes

2008-05-19T11:55:00.000-07:00

The dogs of AARF had a fun day in the sun meeting new people on Saturday at Mom and Pup's in Marietta. They all waited patiently and tried hard to look their cutest as AARF volunteers tried to find forever homes for them all. How could anyone resist Webster and those adorable puppy-dog eyes?

Or Cornelia with her cute floppy ears?

Sutton Middle School eighth-grader Ally Nelke came out to volunteer during the adoption day, and she was a tremendous help! She walked all the dogs and made sure they had plenty of water. Thank you, Ally, for all your help!!!

Roots and Shoots Welcomes Kids N Kritters

2008-04-01T07:59:00.000-07:00

On Thursday, March 27, Kids N Kritters visited the Roots and Shoots group at Warren T. Jackson Elementary School in Atlanta. Roots and Shoots is a program of the Jane Goodall Institute focused on making positive change for communities, animals and the environment.

The 17 third-graders learned about being safe around dogs and cats and ways to recognize the signals that dogs send to let us know whether they are ready to play, frightened, or feeling friendly or guarded. They also learned important "do's and don'ts" of caring for pets.

A very special guest visiting the group was Maggie, the rescued dog. Maggie was adopted by Roots and Shoots student Ian and his family. The students learned about Maggie's story, and shared stories about their own pets, maybe of which also were rescued and adopted.

The group enjoyed visiting with Maggie as they listened to the book May I Pet Your Dog? read by Susan Longley. This great book walks kids through the right way for a child to approach a dog to ensure that the first connection is a complete success.

Finally, the students were given tools and educational materials to take home and share with their families and friends, including info and fun stuff from AARF and Petfinder.

A big thank-you goes out to the Roots and Shoots group, their teacher Missy Schuessler, and parent Susan Longley!

Poop-a-Thon a Success!

2008-03-21T12:21:00.000-07:00

The Poop-a-Thon for homeless pets, thought up and organized by Kids N Kritters member Joy, was a huge success! A team of several kids collected 66 bags of poop from around Joy's neighborhood, for a total of $214.50 in pledged donations for AARF! This will be a tremendous help to all the homeless dogs and cats of AARF, and it's proof that kids can make a really big difference!

Pictured are Natalie, Elana and Joy

AARF Adoption Day

2008-02-09T17:33:00.000-08:00

Brye and Donzaleigh from Campbell High School's Junior Humane Society helped make AARF Dog Adoption Day a huge success! They made sure all the adorable adoptables were walked and had plenty of water on the gorgeous sunny day at Mom and Pup's pet supply boutique in Marietta.

Also a tremendous help at the event was 9-year-old Caria (check out her cool puppy backpack!). She volunteered with her mom and helped make this a fabulous day for lots of dogs looking for their "forever homes."

Thanks, everyone!

It's a Poop-a-Thon!

2008-02-04T08:01:00.000-08:00

Kids N Kritters member Joy Longley, 11, is finding exciting new ways to make a difference for homeless pets. In her neighborhood, Joy is working on coordinating a "poop-a-thon" for this spring. She and others will clean up after the dogs in her neighborhood in exchange for donations to support homeless animals. If you would like to get involved, or if you have your own idea for a fundraiser, let us know by emailing info@kids-n-kritters.org. Joy is a true inspiration to her classmates and neighbors, and she is a tremendous young champion for homeless animals! Thanks, Joy!

Reed Helps Raise Money for Pets

2008-01-07T12:48:00.000-08:00

Reed Marcy (in orange) with the help of his brother, Wade, (shown here with their dog, Sissy), helped homeless pets during the holidays by collecting donations with an AARF Giving Tree. The tree was set up at their family's business, Pet Dreams Memorial Center in Kennesaw, and members of the community put money in envelopes bearing pictures of animals awaiting adoption through AARF. This was a huge help for homeless animals and AARF!

Holiday Supply Drive

2007-12-11T06:38:00.000-08:00

The Junior Humane Society at Campbell High School is helping homeless dogs and cats get what they need this Christmas with a supply drive. The students will be collecting pet beds and bowls, toys, treats and more to be given to AARF's homeless pets in need. If you'd like to help, stop by and make a donation before Dec. 19! Thank you, CHS Junior Humane Society!!!

Joy Makes a Difference

2007-11-28T13:48:00.000-08:00

Kids N Kritters participant and young animal activist Joy, a fifth-grader (here with her dog, Maggie) made a presentation to her principal this week about AARF, requesting permission to head up a fundraiser at her school. She also is working on leading a "poop-a-thon," during which she and others would clean up her neighborhood in exchange for donations to support homeless animals.

Joy has been an animal lover as long as she can remember. She does petsitting for her neighbors and helps out with the family’s dog food delivery business, and she has set her sights on one day creating her own animal shelter. In the meantime, she is teaming up with AARF to use her incredible talents and caring to help homeless pets today.

Evening of Giving

2007-11-19T05:37:00.000-08:00

Sunday, Nov. 18, 2007

Campbell High Junior Humane Society

Campbell High School Junior Humane Society members Brye, Felicia and Claudia came out and volunteered with AARF at the Simon Malls Evening of Giving at Town Center Mall in Kennesaw.

The three were a huge help at the event, where they sold event tickets to shoppers, and educated the public about AARF's mission to help homeless pets. They even encouraged one family who was looking for a dog to consider adopting or fostering one of AARF's rescued pets.

A huge thank-you to Brye, Felicia and Claudia for their incredible work! We look forward to seeing much more from these students and the rest of the JHS!

Kidgits Club Welcomes Kids N Kritters

2007-11-17T15:19:00.000-08:00

Wednesday, Nov. 14, 2007
Town Center at Cobb Mall Kidgits Club

Kids N Kritters visited the Kidgits Club at Town Center at Cobb in Kennesaw, in conjunction with the club's fun Thanksgiving program. The preschool-aged kids and their moms had a great time talking about all the things their pets are always "thankful for," like food, water, toys, treats, and--as one little boy pointed out--shoes! Each child received a KIND News "License to Care" to show that they are good caregivers for all animals.

CHS Junior Humane Society

2007-11-17T15:13:00.000-08:00

Wednesday, Sept. 19, 2007
Campbell High School Junior Humane Society

AARF Education Director India visited the Junior Humane Society at Campbell High School in Smyrna to talk with the students about ways they can use their amazing energy and talents to help animals. The students were excited to learn about all the ways they can take action in their community, and they plan to organize a fundraiser or supply drive soon to help homeless pets. Check back for updates on this dynamic group!

The First Kids N Kritters Event

2007-11-17T15:08:00.000-08:00

Friday, May 19, 2006
Flippen Elementary School

AARF's Kids N Kritters program held its first community outreach event at Flippen Elementary School in Henry County. The school invited AARF volunteers Jordan and Betsy to give a presentation as part of Career/Cultural Arts Week. Jordan demonstrated various animal behaviors and the appropriate reactions to avoid dog bites, while Betsy held up display boards of dogs exhibiting those behaviors. They summed up the safety tips by reading several different safe or unsafe scenarios about dogs, and the kids responded with their answers by holding up the letters "S" (safe) or "U" (unsafe). The kids had their own stories to tell about their pets and lots of good questions!