The Fur (& Feather!) Flyer

A Day in the Life...

2008-08-19T09:37:28Z

Have you ever stopped by HAWS in the morning and wanted to see the animals, only to find out that the kennel is closed until 1:00 pm? Maybe you've looked through the kennel door and wondered...what is going on back there?

Here's your chance to get an inside view!

On a typical day, 2 kennel caregivers care for up to 200 animals, with help from 2 more workers that come in later in the day and a handful of dedicated volunteers. The 2 morning kennel workers divide their duties - 1 working with the dogs, the other with the cats.

The caretaker responsible for the dog kennel begins at 7:00am by taking all adoptable dogs (sometimes almost 2 dozen!) out to the individual exercise runs. Once all dogs are out, all blankets are picked up from their kennels and thrown into the laundry, dishes and toys are taken to the kitchen to be washed, and any miscellaneous items left behind - such as poop or treats - are scooped up and thrown away.

The entire kennel is then soaked down with a disinfectant and allowed to sit for at least 10 minutes. The kennel is then rinsed with water and soaked again in bleach, to sit for another 10 minutes and then to be rinsed again. A squeegee is used on the entire floor so all puddles are dispersed. The drain in each kennel is emptied out. Finally, each kennel is given a water bowl and the dogs are brought back in.

The same process is repeated in the stray dog holding kennel, the isolation (medical ward) kennel and the overnight drop off kennel. When all the dogs are back in their "houses," each run is then soaked in disinfectant, rinsed, soaked in bleach and rinsed again.

The whole process of cleaning the dog kennels takes about 4.5 hours - sometimes longer depending on other circumstances that arise from day to day. Sick animals need to be medicated, each room of the building is cleaned, supplies and donations need to be put away. Kennel caregivers are also called on to help visitors who come in the morning (surrendering animals, claiming strays), and take care of requested animal pick-ups throughout the county.

Next week: we're still not done - and it isn't even close to 1:00pm yet!

By the way, Meteorologist Rob Haswell from Fox 6 helped out in the HAWS kennel one morning - click on this link to watch his adventure!

Paws on Film - Part 2

2008-08-05T18:21:00Z

Combining several of our favorite things, our Kids 'N Critters Day Camp participants last week helped make videos of some of the adoptable animals here at HAWS.

To see to the videos that were made, click on the Pet Showcase page of the HAWS website, which will link you to our listings on Petfinder.com. Adoptable pets that have a video have "View Video" as one of the choices to the right of the large photo in their individual listings. Currently videos are available for Bruno, Rosie & Fritz, and Velvet, with more to come!

Not only is video a great way to showcase our adoptables, but the campers really enjoy putting the videos together. While most folks visiting our website take a look at the Pet Showcase, sometimes the simple still photos posted there really don't do a pet justice! The kids are asked to design ways to show the pets in their best light, in action, having the same kind of fun that the dog or cat could have at your house.

Who says you should never work with animals and kids?!??!!!

By the way - PEGGY WAS ADOPTED!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

HAWS Brings Adoptable Pets to You!

2008-07-29T13:34:16Z

HAWS' Mobile Adoption Center visits area businesses, pet fairs, festivals and events in the Waukesha County area all throughout the year. It's another way we're reaching out to our community with the message of adoption, education and responsible pet ownership. We set up inside and outside of stores, malls, parks... wherever pet people may be! HAWS representatives even bring along an adoptable pet or two for viewing.

So if you can't come to our shelter in Waukesha, you can meet with us when we're out and about - and learn how you can bring home your new best friend right in your own neighborhood! (Potential adoptors will need to provide proof of home ownership or landlord approval, and up-to-date vaccinations for animals currently owned, before any adoption can be approved.)

Our Mobile Adoption van can be seen regularly at the Petco in Delafield - we set up at their store every Wednesday evening from 5-7pm. Would you like us to visit YOUR business? Your company need not be pet-realted for us to come - we've been to grocery stores, jewelers, cycle shops, theaters, business offices and more. We can come during evenings, weekends - and even over lunch hours.

Contact our Mobile Adoptions Coordinator, Cassie Gugin, by calling HAWS at 262-542-8851. She'll have her appointment calendar at the ready to schedule a visit ASAP.

By the way - make the "dog days" of summer the "I adopted a dog" days! Or, better yet, adopt a cat, kitten, small animal... we have plenty to choose from and they're all waiting for you!

"Steer"-ed to Safety

2008-07-22T12:19:43Z

Dateline, July 16, 2008 - WAUKESHA

The Humane Animal Welfare Society (HAWS) of Waukesha County, Inc. Animal Rescue Team sprang into action early this afternoon when a wayward Waukesha County Fair participant wandered across the shelter's front lawn on Northview Road in Waukesha. The County Fair grounds are just down the road, west of HAWS' shelter at 701 Northview Road.

"We're used to seeing dogs being walked on our grounds, but not livestock: it was quite a shock to look out our windows and see a large black steer looking back at us," said Jennifer Smieja, HAWS Development Coordinator. "He seemed somewhat spooked, and just searching for a safe place away from the commotion and traffic."

HAWS Adoption Counselor Lisa Neaman, who has shown animals at the Fair in past years, identified the bovine as possibly a black Angus crossbred steer, weighing a minimum of 800 pounds.

Neaman, Kennel Lead Jaime Merkel and Spay-Neuter Clinic Manager Cassie Gugin ran out to assist the steer's handlers and a Fair official who were attempting to corral it back to safety. The round-up lasted about a quarter mile, when the group was finally able to get a halter around the steer and wrangle it back into a trailer. The HAWS staffers offered water for the animal that was obviously tired and weary from his jaunt.

Smieja noted with a smile: "With our ‘open admissions' policy, it makes perfect sense to us that he would seek Shelter at HAWS."

By the way - HAWS Halloween Howl II is coming up October 31, 2008! Sure, it's warm outside, but mark your calendar now for a spooktacular time - and a great way to celebrate Halloween and help animals all at the same time. Tickets will be available in late August...

Still Here, Waiting

2008-07-15T09:07:38Z

She's still here.

Peggy (aka, Miss Piggy) has been at HAWS since February 1st of this year. She was a stray that was wandering in Menomonee Falls who didn't get reclaimed by her owner. So, after the 7-day hold period, we temperament tested her and put her up for adoption, hoping to place her in a new home.

She's still waiting!

It is a common misconception that shelters have a "death row" or "euthanasia list" - a list of animals that will be put down after a certain time frame if they are not adopted. HAWS doesn't have a time limit - and Peggy is our latest proof of that.

So what kind of home does Peggy need? Well, she's not a cat fan, so one without cats. She does well with dogs - but not every dog, so we'll do an introduction with her and your resident best buddy. Peggy loves people. And kids. She's been spending time with our Kids'N Critters Day Camp participants, doing training and socialization demos. She "hangs" in the office with us, knows her manners, and is just a pleasant dog to be around.

It breaks our hearts to see the other dogs come and go, adopted out while Peggy waits.

We're just hopeful that the right home is coming. Soon.

By the way - our kid's camp is in full swing, and having a blast! If you missed out on this year's sessions, mark your calendars: we also have winter camps while school is out, and we'll be taking registrations early next spring for the 2009 sessions. Watch our website!

What's in a Name?

2008-07-08T09:57:38Z

There was a great article in the Monday paper about the most common names for pets in our area. We have our own list of "too popular" names that we try to avoid whenever a pet comes into HAWS needing a moniker.

For the most part, staff has sworn off of names like Buddy, Fluffy, Blackie, Shadow...

Here are some of the pets currently available at HAWS with the best names!

ACORN
This handsome cat is a shorthaired gray tabby. Actually, Acorn was stuck up a tree and rescued by a HAWS staff member, so we can take credit for this name.

BLUE CRUSH
Blue Crush is a female Indian Ringneck Parakeet that was flitting around a business in Menomonee Falls. Another "stray," she was also named by our kennel staff.

BO & ARROW
These two darling Guinea Pigs were surrendered together and will be adopted out together. We're not sure if their aim is true but they DO "quiver" a little bit....

CHURCH
You've heard of a Churchmouse, how about a Church CAT?! Another shorthair, Church has a beautiful dense gray coat. He is 6 years old and a sweet young man who just needs some companionship.

SHREDDER
An American Mix rabbit, Shredder is just over a year old, and has been neutered. Don't be fooled - he's more of a "gnaw-er."

By the way - we are selling tribute paver bricks as part of our fundraising campaign for our new facility. We will continue selling the bricks even after we've reached our goal for construction, but what a great way to honor a family member or beloved pet, or just get your name "etched in stone"! Log onto our facility expansion page to download a brick order form, or stop by the shelter and pick one up!

When "Hot Car!" Isn't a Cool Thing

2008-07-01T08:58:00Z

We all know that summer usually doesn't show up in Wisconsin until about...now. Summer can be a GREAT time to interact with your pet! But bringing your best friend along on road trips, even to the grocery store, can be deadly.

Many have seen the demonstrations on TV. On a typical summer day a reporter parks his car in the sun, cracks the windows an inch or 2, and sets a thermometer inside to watch the dramatic rise in temperature. Amazingly (or maybe not since we've seen this a lot), the inside of the car goes from warm to toasty to downright dangerous within minutes - less time than it takes to get that gallon of milk or bottle of soda.

Imagine being stuck inside the car. Without car keys. Or thumbs.

Keep in mind, I don't advise that you actually do this, but you might get an idea of what your pet is going through alone in your car in the summer heat by bundling up as though you were going out in one of our great snowstorms from this past winter (don't forget the wool socks). Then, sit in your car in the sun, with the windows cracked about 3 inches. When you start sweating, remember that dogs and cats don't sweat like we do, so do some panting. Bark intermittently if you like. And jump from seat to seat hoping someone will notice. Had enough yet?

Hot cars kill pets.

If you see an animal in distress in a parking lot this summer, don't be afraid to help. Go into the store and ask the management to page the owner. Call us at HAWS or the police in the area for assistance.

If you don't have to, don't take your pet along in the car, either. With gas prices (and safety) being what they are, no longer can we leave the car running with the A/C on while doing errands. Your pet will be more comfortable in your home, near a bowl of water.

And a nice fan.

By the way - it bears repeating: Its fireworks season. Keep the safety and mental well-being of your pet in mind while the shows are going! Pets should be safely inside - and try turning the TV or radio on to help deaden the outside noise for them. Then, reward them for their bravery with a nice picnic and walk in the park. Have a great July 4th holiday!

Lost Birds of a Feather

2008-06-24T08:47:44Z

Typically when we think of "stray" animals, a lost dog or cat comes to mind. But a few other species come into HAWS as strays every once in awhile - and whenever that happens it is difficult to reunite them with their owners. While dogs and cats often wear collars with I.D. tags, or even have identifying microchips, companion pets like birds usually do not have I.D.!

We have been able to reunite lost pet birds with their owners, but it is usually more from luck than planning.

Many birds that are kept as house pets have their wings clipped. Doing this will keep the animal from going too far, if the owner keeps up with clipping, but it will not ground them completely. Don't be fooled into thinking you can take your pet bird outside on your shoulder and expect it to stay put, either. Any animal can be startled at any time by just about anything.

Bird owners can do a few things to assist with the recapture of their pet if it goes missing.

Take plenty of pictures - not only is this fun, but it will help with identifying. While Cockatiels, Love Birds and Parakeets are common, not everyone knows what they look like.
Know your bird - be able to give very accurate and complete descriptions, not only of how your bird looks but of it's actions or particular habits.
Keep track of the digits - if you do have a banded or microchipped bird, keep those numbers handy, and when you give a missing report be sure to mention them!
Get the word out - as soon as your bird goes missing, let as many places and people know as possible. Cover your neighborhood with posters and flyers so people keep an eye out for your pet. Call us, local pet shops, vet clinics, even bird hotlines.

When a bird goes missing in our area, it's chances are not good! Our climate and area wildlife make the outdoors an unsafe place for companion birds. So, being prepared and acting quickly are the best ways to ensure a happy ending to a scary situation.

By the way - the fireworks are coming! Even the most well-adjusted dog or cat can be afraid while the rockets red glare - keep your pets inside during fireworks displays in your area. If your pets must be outside, have them securely tethered to a leash - with you on the other end as reassurance.

It's Raining...Cats!

2008-06-17T09:49:42Z

With the warmer temperatures marking the return of summer in our area, we at HAWS "celebrate" another momentus occasion: It's KITTEN SEASON!

No, really.

For whatever reason - be it evolution, Darwinism or simple common sense - mother cats in this area seem to limit their breeding to the warmer months. The result is that about April 1st we start to see our first newborns, and by early June HAWS is literally crawling with cats. If you want to bring a kitten into your family, now is the time - every color and hair-length imaginable arrives at the shelter, making it easy to find just what you're looking for.

But, the very sad down side to this time of year is that the adult cats in the shelter often get overlooked. Sure kittens are fun, but they are lots of work - while most of the adult cats are just ready to settle in with you and be loved. Another advantage to adopting an adult cat is that their personalities are known. Is this cat social, playful, or a lazy lapcat? No need to wonder how the adult cat will "turn out."

If you're in the market for a feline, please don't look past that gorgeous, well-mannered 6 year-old and fixate on the cute little bundles of fuzz. Try them both on for size and consider all your options. You may be surprised at what you fall in love with. Addy, Clarence, Fritz & Rosie, Missy, Milo, and Isabella are just a few of the cats that would love to meet you.

By the way - lately the dogs from the Michael Vick case have been in the news, as some are now going up for adoption. Amazing what love, socialization and training can do for a very misunderstood breed! If you're a Pit Bull fan, or would like to meet some great members of the Pit family (other than Brad and Angelina), stop by our shelter and say hi to Bruno, Princess and Will. And ask Tracey how Hannah is doing!

Water-Logged and Your Dog

2008-06-10T08:20:32Z

Uncle, we say, uncle!

We've been very fortunate at HAWS that we are not in an area that has standing water or flooding issues - thank heavens for higher ground.

Although, a flood in our building right now would be par for the course for our spring so far! Apparently the prevailing wisdom is we've been through enough for the time being. Whew!

We can't miss this opportunity, however, to remind dog and cat owners of a few serious issues that can greatly affect our pets.

HAVE A PLAN
Do you have a disaster plan in place that includes your pets? If and when you may need to evacuate in the time of an emergency, don't forget arrangements for your animal family members. During the Katrina evacuation it became very apparent that there are not many places that will welcome both people AND their pets in an emergency. The best thing you can do is to check into facilities that will welcome your pets, before it is needed. What hotel chains welcome pets? Are there boarding facilities that will accept "drop-offs" without a reservation? What vet care/vaccinations are required for your pet? For helpful hints on planning, check out this link to the Humane Society of the United States' website.

SPEAKING OF VET CARE...
Annual exams and vaccinations are a must for your pets. But, maybe more importantly:

DON'T FORGET HEARTWORM PREVENTATIVE!!!!!

Heartworm is transmitted by mosquitos - and with all of the water pooling around us lately, there is plenty of fertile ground for our state bird to reproduce. Humans aren't the only ones bothered by the bites - if your dog or cat isn't on heartworm preventative and is bitten by a mosquito carrying the disease, it can be fatal. (And it isn't a pleasant experience for them - just ask your vet to see pictures of an animal's heart infested with heartworm. You can visit Wikipedia for some basic starter info - but don't stop here, go to your vet for the best, up-to-date info!)

Don't forget, too, that even if your cat is always inside the house, that isn't a guarantee against mosquito bites. Somehow those pests manage to find their way in. Unfortunately!

By the way - we're having a party! Stop by the HAWS shelter at 701 Northview Road, Waukesha this Wednesday, June 11th between 5-7:00pm and join us as we thank EVERYONE for helping us through our recent dog illness. There will be food, fun, and some special guests - don't miss it!

Parade of Adoptable Pets

2008-06-03T16:08:00Z

We were unable to have the Parade of Adoptables at our Walkathon this past May...so here's an electronic version! All of these featured pets are available for adoption at HAWS - stop by any day to visit! We are open 7 days/week beginning at 1:00pm for viewing. Log onto our website for adoption information and a downloadable application.

BLANCHE
Blanche is a raven beauty. As a former stray, her past is mysterious, but we've found her to be a wonderful sweet cat. She has been spayed, and we believe her to be about 6 years old.

LARRY
Meow-wow! Larry is about 8 years old, neutered and ready to take up residence on your couch. A short hair, he will also require little grooming - just daily petting and attention and he'll be all set.

PEGGY
How can you resist that face?! Peggy is ready for fun - this active girl would love to find a forever home, possibly with a doggie playmate. About 5 years old, Peggy is ready to show you how much love Pit Bulls have to give. Peggy has been spayed.

REX
Rex is an adult male Mini Rex rabbit. He has been neutered. House rabbits like Rex make fabulous companions - do your research and find out the joys of house rabbit ownership. Did you know rabbits can be litter trained?! Wow!

By the way - be sure your pets are on heartworm and tick preventatives - we have loads of mosquitos and ticks in our area this summer - an ounce of prevention is definitely worth the pound of cure when it comes to your pets!!!

We're baaaaack!

2008-05-27T13:50:06Z

Our dogs are back available for adoption today! Many emotions come to mind - excitement, relief, cautious optimism...

It will probably take us a few days to get back to "normal."

The paint in our freshly scrubbed, sandblasted and sealed adoption wards is still drying.

We're still getting things settled with our off-site stray facility so we can resume those operations here at the HAWS building by next week.

Our staff is still going strong, but showing a little fatigue. (What would we do without our volunteers?!?! And pizza delivery services?!)

It has been a tough few weeks for HAWS. But, through it all, our community has been overwhelmingly supportive of us, and that has really carried us through. We asked for donations, patience and understanding, and the public gave us all three - in spades! The local media has been concerned for us, and are now excited at our kennel's re-opening. The animal welfare community has stepped forward to assist in any way they can. It seems that people in any kind of position to help have done just that.

Funny how in the midst of trying times there are some very bright spots. We live in a very special community - our area is full of people who are genuinely concerned for their neighbors.

Our most sincere thanks to everyone who has been there for us - from all of the paws at HAWS! Welcome back to the shelter - we'll see you soon!

By the way - with summer coming, so is our Kids'N Critters summer day camp. Or, sign up the entire family to volunteer at HAWS. Visit our website to learn of what YOU can do to spend your summer vacation with us at HAWS! Now THAT will make for a great essay come fall...

A True Friend of HAWS

2008-05-21T15:27:53Z

We lost a friend of HAWS this past weekend - a person who was integral to our beginning and our continued success.

Romey Schoeninger, co-founder of HAWS and life-long animal welfare advocate, died this past weekend at the age of 92. Her passing wasn't unexpected as she had been in hospice care, but it is still sad to know she is gone. We'll miss her phone calls of support and humor, her very sage advice, and her passion for our work here at HAWS.

Last fall the Wisconsin Federated Humane Societies gave Romey their Eugene Kable Humanitarian Award. This honor is only given on occassion when someone deserves the distinction because of their long-term public commitment to animal welfare. It is the highest achievement award presented by WFHS. The honoree is noted for their pioneering work, devotion, compassion and kindness. (In some of our opinions, giving Romey this award was the definition of a "no-brainer"!)

Romey was one of the area citizens who got HAWS going in 1965, and she was close by all throughout the past 43 years making sure we were on the right track. Even through tough times she could be counted on to be a clear and reasonable advocate. Not surprisingly, she was not one to take the credit that was due to her, but was quick to point out others who have been instrumental in HAWS success.

But her personal opinions and guidance were still very important to us. One staff member noted that after a tumultous time in the shelter's past, Romey gave that staffer her blessing to go back to working at HAWS. "It's okay - they are on track and things are going well." If Romey said it was okay, that was all that was needed. That staffer will celebrate a 10-year anniversary with HAWS soon - and hopes to be around much longer to help continue HAWS' legacy.

Thank you, Romey, from all of your admirers, both 2- and 4-legged. HAWS will miss you! It is our hope that we at HAWS will honor you with our work for many years to come.

Listen to our Stream

2008-05-13T14:24:54Z

As a participant in a recent expo, HAWS received some internet-stream advertising on a local radio station. While our actual commercial had to be abbreviated, the concept took us on a few tangents...our apologies to the restaurant personnel who didn't enjoy the creative process as much as we did!

"Mr. Sparkle Collar" - Unused Bits

REX: You look great, Rex. How's the new family?

SPIKE: They're the best. There's a couple of big ones and a couple of little ones...kinda loud, but I'm glad I found them at HAWS!

REX: I got a hiker - Dog, we are in the woods all the time! I'm glad I found him at HAWS, too. (Conspiratorially to SPIKE): Oh, great, here comes Mr. Sparkle-collar...

Mr. Sparkle Collar: Hey guys! What's a "HAWS"?

SPIKE: You WISH you knew about HAWS...

Mr. Sparkle Collar: Oh, HAWS - I have four of ‘em!

SPIKE: Those are paws, Mr. Pedigree... HAWS is the Humane Animal Welfare Society of Waukesha County.

REX: It's a great place to find your new family...

SPIKE: ...And to learn how to take care of your humans.

REX: You know the place - over by the airport in Waukesha.

Mr. Sparkle Collar: With all the big birds?

REX: Those are planes, fuzzhead!

SPIKE (quietly to REX): Clearly some over-breeding in this one...

REX: You know, Waukesha has grown so much that HAWS is growing, too.

SPIKE: I've heard that! I also heard that besides taking care of animals, more than 31,000 people visit HAWS each year...

Mr. Sparkle Collar: That's a lot of humans!

SPIKE: ...and a lot of ‘em are looking for dogs, cats and even small animals like iguanas.

Mr. Sparkle Collar (shudders): Iguanas scare me...

REX (quietly to SPIKE): His shadow scares him... [to Mr. Sparkle Collar] Iguanas are cool, even if they are bigger than you...

By the way: You can click on the Listen Live link on The Hog's website and you'll hear the actual commercial promoting our facility expansion, in rotation. We are still working to acheive our fundraising goal of $1.86 million dollars - join us!

From “Not our Favorite Week” to Happy Tails

2008-05-06T15:36:31Z

Last week at HAWS we were excitedly gearing up for our 25^th Anniversary Pet Walkathon on Saturday when...WHAMMO!

Streptococcus zooepidemicus bacterium.

It was a small bit of a relief getting word of the exact name of the mystery illness that took the lives of 7 dogs in our shelter. We only had more questions: Were the 2 dogs who were alive but showing symptoms going to make it? Did we find out the treatment protocols soon enough to contain the illness from the rest of our dogs? What else do we need to do? How do you educate everyone about something that's still very much unknown?

Meanwhile, Bella and Raymond were not doing well. Our kennel lead was occasionally making disruptive noises outside of Bella's cage - to roust her awake and "make sure she was still with us." When you are used to hearing barking and being greeted by jumping and general canine excitement, it is devastating to see a dog that doesn't even have the energy to lift its head to acknowledge you.

What else could we do but administer meds, clean, wait, and hope?

On Sunday morning our caretakers first started noticing a marked improvement in Bella and Raymond's conditions. We knew they were holding steady once the first meds were given, but the wagging tails on Monday morning were just what the doctor ordered.

Bella and Raymond were outside today for photo ops with the local media.

It has never been so great to get doggy kisses.

By the way - HAWS is still OPEN - the only part of our facility that is on restriction is the dog kennel. Please stop in - especially if you are looking to adopt a cat, rabbit or other small animal. We are also gratefully accepting any donations to get us through - bleach, money to cover medications and tests...thanks in advance for your help!

The Tale of Chris, Buddy and Pat

2008-04-29T13:51:02Z

Chris was a young human full of enthusiasm for life. A newly-minted adult with stable employment and living alone, Chris decided to bring home a pet. Chris looked in the paper, got a new pet named Buddy, and all was good.

Except Chris didn't have the amount of time needed to spend with Buddy. Buddy spent lots of hours home alone, and when Chris was home, they didn't work together on learning proper pet behaviors. Chris decided that, living alone, these otherwise unacceptable behaviors were fine, cute actually, and left Buddy to grow up into an adult pet, not knowing any better.

Sometime later, enter Pat. Pat and Chris fell in love. Even though Pat wasn't crazy about the way Buddy acted, Pat put up with Buddy because Pat loved Chris. Besides, now that there were the 2 of them, Chris and Pat could work with Buddy together. What a great way to bond!

But Buddy's bad behaviors were now learned behaviors and ingrained habits - hard habits to break after so much time. Despite working with Buddy when Chris and Pat weren't at work or doing Chris and Pat together things, Buddy's behavior didn't improve much. Chris and Pat forgot they could call us at HAWS for help. (We even have a staff trainer/behaviorist that does 1-on-1 sessions!)

More time passed, and Chris and Pat decided to have a family. Buddy didn't realize that humans and animals are different, and tried to treat the new little human, Jamie, like a littermate. Chris and Pat decided that Buddy and Jamie couldn't co-exist, and Buddy would have to go.

Buddy came to HAWS with this profile: "Buddy is wonderful and an awesome pet...but doesn't know how to act properly around humans. Buddy needs work on this and that. Buddy may have to live in a home with only adult humans." Chris and Pat pleaded with the staff not to put Buddy to sleep, ever, and the HAWS staff promised to try their best! But with Buddy's profile, they couldn't make any guarantees. Immediately Buddy started working with HAWS' trainers and socializers, in hopes of making Buddy more adoptable. Buddy joined the other available pets in the shelter looking for homes.

Chris, Pat, Jamie and Buddy's situation isn't unique. A very common reason given for relinquishing a pet to us at HAWS is "not enough time." When there's not enough time to train, care for, or work the pet into a busy life, the pet most often is the one that loses out.

Actually, Chris could have done a few things from the beginning to change this scenario. A pet is a commitment for a lifetime - and with many pets living 12-18 years and longer, the pet owner needs to think about where life might take them over that time. Going to get married? Have a family? Move to a different place? Start working different hours? Thinking logically now may avert the trauma later. And take the time early on in your relationship with your pet to train and set guidelines. A little hard work now can really pay off later on.

By the way - Buddy wonders what happened to Chris, Pat and Jamie. Our hope is that every Buddy will find a new Chris, Pat and Jamie, and live happily ever after. And we have seminars and classes galore at HAWS to help make your relationship work, so YOUR Buddy hopefully doesn't have to end up in a shelter.

Don't Touch - No Matter How Tempting!

2008-04-22T14:13:37Z

“I have every confidence that there will be a revival of activity in the spring, and that during this coming year the country will make steady progress." - Andrew Mellon (1855 - 1937) financier, philanthropist

We’ll leave the steady progress of the country to other blogs, but at HAWS we can certainly vouch for the “revival of activity” part!

Spring in the animal welfare business means several things, notably kittens, increased foot traffic from the winter hermits venturing back out into the world, kittens, more stray dogs who’ve gone out to see what’s changed since the snow melted, kittens, and increased wildlife encounters. Spring is a time of rebirth and renewal – for almost every species.

This time of year, our phone calls increase dramatically regarding what should be done with wildlife that is found. Here’s the short answer:

Don’t touch! No, really, leave them alone.

Most wildlife that is thought to be “abandoned” is actually being very closely watched, and there is a mother hiding nearby. Wildlife youngsters of all kinds need to learn to be on their own – and they get to practice, with guidance from adults. (Hmmm, sounds familiar...)

Parent animals RARELY abandon healthy offspring. They will leave their youth hidden while foraging for food, sometimes only returning at dawn and dusk. They stay away so as not to advertise the presence of their young to any predators that might be wandering by - smart!

Some myths/hints: it is not true that parents will reject their young because a human has touched it, but you should still resist the urge to handle wildlife. A feathered, young bird may or may not be able to fly, but unless it is obviously ill or injured the parent bird will continue to care for it. Most important rule of thumb: Keep kids and pets away.

If your dog - or lawn mower – does find a nest of cottontails, young birds, or other species, before doing anything contact us at HAWS. Or you can speak with our friends at the Wildlife in Need Center – they have licensed rehabilitators available to step in if needed.

By the way – wildlife do NOT make good housepets. Don’t even go there. We’re bursting at the seams with appropriate companion pets at HAWS – stop by ASAP!

"Don't Let the Cat Out of the Bag"

2008-04-15T15:30:10Z

“If we start at the beginning and limit the breeding, we can change the equation in hopes to balance it.”

That’s a quote from a presentation created by the Lead to Succeed Program at Waukesha North High School. Lead to Succeed is a student interactive program which helps direct students to a better future, and assist in their community while doing so. The program is produced by Community Connections Consulting and funded by UW-Waukesha.

This group of students is working to make a difference in the pet overpopulation problem in Waukesha County. Through a pilot project with us at HAWS, they are doing presentations to community leaders (one in particular on Wednesday, April 16^th, at the HAWS shelter) about HAWS’ Owned Outdoor Cat Program: our SNIP clinic provides free spay or neuter surgeries for the cats in Waukesha County that are part of outdoor/barn or feral cat populations.

The students are hoping to promote awareness of what pet overpopulation can truly mean – more euthanasia as a result of there not being enough room in shelters for all the cats that are being born.

That reality was tough for the students to swallow at first! So, the group was asked to develop a program to help get the word out. Their campaign is titled “Don’t Let the Cat Out of the Bag.” Some of their main points include:

· As our community changes from rural to urban, many cats are left homeless. The cats that live in the rural areas are forced to move into our growing developments, thus making them a nuisance. This causes problems for the cats as well, since many are suffering from lack of nourishment.

· Community involvement in stemming pet overpopulation makes our area a brighter and better place - knowing that we are that much closer to solving this problem.

Lead to Succeed students, you rock! And we can tell you understand our mission at HAWS, too, since this quote is also from your presentation:

“Without humane education there is little hope in changing the future.”

By the way: anyone can help with curbing pet overpopulation! Spay and neuter, or just spread the word about how important it is - you'll save lives, and your pet will be happier and healthier.

Still Walking...After 25 Years!

2008-04-03T13:54:12Z

Today it is exactly one month until HAWS’ Annual Pet Walkathon – which is on May 3^rd, from 9am until 3pm at Waukesha’s Minooka Park.

The Walk is always a special event for us – we call it our “celebration of pets and their people.” It is a day full of fun with our pets - dogs mostly, although we have one donor that brings his turtle and they do an amazing job of fundraising together! We walk, play, shop and socialize, all in support of HAWS.

The event started as a dog walk, with no tent and just a handful of picnic tables (check out the historical pix in our most recent newsletter). It has grown to a full-fledged festival with vendors, pet competitions and demos, a lure course, celebrity guests, special recognition ceremonies, a Parade of HAWS’ Adoptable Pets and much more.   This year our Walk is celebrating a special anniversary – it is our 25^th year of walking, and our paws STILL aren’t tired!

Speaking of tired, tire-LESS is the best word to describe the organizers of this event – all of whom are volunteers, too. Nancy is our event chair/goddess who keeps it all together, Chris zooms around in a golf cart keeping everyone happy as our day-of-the-event-captain, Sandy Z. and Zona make sure everyone is fed! Martha and Roger keep the registration area running smoothly, Fred and Sandy H. corral and coordinate the day-of volunteers, Maria will show you where to park…I’m forgetting someone, I’m sure, because this event takes many, many, MANY hands…

A neat highlight also this year is the German Shepherd Club of Wisconsin - one group that has been with us almost since the beginning. In 2008 they are celebrating their 20^th year of participation in the HAWS walk, and we couldn’t be happier to have them with us! This group alone has raised over $66,000 during their years of Walking.

Known local animal welfare supporter Marilynn Mee, from 96.5 WKLH middays, is recruiting team members and raising funds for us. Today’s TMJ4 Weather Plus meteorologist, Brian Gotter will be joining the fun and emceeing several of our competitions…including a lunchtime mini-race by the Milwaukee Brewers Baseball Club’s Famous Racing Sausages! And, if that weren’t enough, everyone’s favorite sea dog, Roscoe from the Milwaukee Admirals, will also be on hand in the afternoon.   We’d love it if YOU’D join us, too! Come and celebrate our love of pets and what they mean to us.

By the way – our chief blogger is out until 4/15, presumably collecting Walkathon pledges. Pace yourself with this entry – or join in (on foot or online!) and fundraise along with us! See you on May 3^rd at Minooka.

March Madness hits at HAWS

2008-03-25T15:49:00Z

Normally HAWS promotes a Pet of the Week. But, like most everyone else, we’ve become victims of March Madness! So, in the spirit of the season, we’re presenting…

...HAWS very own “Sweet Sixteen”

HAWS bracket is complete! We have some lively competition and a few genuine underdogs (get it? Under DOGS!), but overall it is a strong field.

Representing the Northwest Region are Dash the Westie, Alaster the Collie/Shepherd, Piggy the Pit Bull and Wilbur the Rottweiler (both pictured). We expect a strong showing from Dash, but don’t be surprised if Wilbur makes things interesting in this region.

From the Southwest we have Carter the Lab (pictured), Vince and Oliver the young Pit Bulls, and the Dynamic Duo of Cagney and Lacey – this Poodle and Shih Tzu combo are veterans and will make it hard for the boys to advance beyond the first round.

Out of the Northeast are Sonny the Terrier mix, Xena the Husky, Bella the Beagle and Wren the Lab. This region shows the most diversity within our bracket. It will be anybody’s horse race coming out of the Northeast!

Finally, rounding out the field from the Southeast are Josh the Terrier (pictured), Red the Lab/Terrier, Mocha the Lab and Captain, also a Lab. The early favorite is Mocha, with Red turning some heads and changing some minds…

Okay, no, we’re not having an actual tournament – and, honestly, there are no losers in this bracket! We are, however, using the fun this time of year to promote the overabundance of wonderful adoptable dogs currently living at HAWS. Come in to the shelter from March 26 through April 6 and receive a leash/collar set with each dog adoption, along with a doggy treat bag. All dog adopters will also have the chance to win fun prizes like ½ off their adoption fees, HAWS merchandise, dog toys, discounts on training classes and training books.

Now is a great time to bring home your best friend. I mean...TEAMMATE!

By the way - Don’t worry, cat fans! The felines will be taking over the building soon enough – you’ve heard of the World Series of Cats, right...?