1st Annual Merry Memphis Christmas Celebration Brings True Joy to the Community

A Collaboration of Compassion in the Community!

The Boys & Girls Clubs 1st Annual Merry Memphis Christmas held on December 8, 2011 was an outstanding success! Boys and Girls Club executive director Tyronne Drakeford happily stated, "We had over 200 kids and parents come out to enjoy the festivities. This event not only brought the community closer together, but it also showed our kids the type of promise and fortitude that they have when they put their minds to it."

Some of the evenings highlights included the children visiting the different fun-filled booths of West Tennessee Therapy Dogs, Amro Music, Nike, Girl Scouts and Animal World. Activities included trimming the tree, being able to play and learn about musical instruments, sports giveaways from the University of Memphis Athletic program, youth creating holiday ornaments, calendar and book gifts, animal posters to take home, and the opportunity to play and interact with the loving, beautiful therapy dogs, "Sammie" and "L.E."

Also included were opportunities to become involved with the Girls Scouts and their respected community work. Another highlight was Mr. Drakeford announced that the 'Clothes Nook' would be initiated. This is where clothes and items that the B & G youth can benefit from will be made available at the club. And it is very exciting that it began with the Merry Memphis Christmas event. Furniture donated to the youth room was another reason to celebrate. And last but not least, the variety of refreshments were tasty and the festive holiday music was appreciated by all!

Mr Drakeford continues, "This is just the beginning of many great things to come from the Boys & Girls Buckman Family Club. We look forward to all of your continued support as we collectively help these youth achieve their goals and become productive citizens in society."

Animal World is honored to have joyfully partnered with the Boys and Girls Clubs of Greater Memphis to start this annual tradition. Animal World president Michelle Buckalew states, "Tradition makes life meaningful and what a wonderful tradition to start with Boys and Girls Clubs. This special celebration sets the stage for more collaboration between our community strengthening organizations not only during the holidays but throughout the year."

Boys and Girls Clubs of Greater Memphis and Animal World USA who have partnered together for this amazing event would like to extend our sincere gratitude to the following people and businesses who made this evening possible:

West TN Therapy Dogs, Amro Music, Nike and the Girl Scouts and for their joyful presence at the event.

Special thanks are also in order to the following donations:

-University of Memphis for cool giveaways for the youth
-Tommy & Brenda Carpenter: Beautiful 9-foot Christmas tree
-Debra Jacobson Sparks for the clothings/items to start the B & G Clothes Nook
-Discount Fabrics for the beautiful fabric which adorned the club
-Starbucks for their delicious coffee
-Costco for all the yummy pastries and food
-Kroger for the great variety of cold beverages
-Ashley Buckalew for the holiday crafts and decorations
-Spin Street Records for the wonderful donated holiday CD's
-Memphis Art Supply for their continuing support
-Commercial Appeal for helping to inform the community of this life-changing event

It is the B & G youth indeed that touched our hearts in ways that tranformed our lives forever. The smiles, laughter and joy that they brought to all of that evening will last thoughout our entire lives. The support that they know they have will surely plant seeds in the community that will positively affect generations to come.

If you would like to help the Boys and Girls Clubs of Greater Memphis, contact executive director Tyronne Drakeford at 901-527-7994.

Thank you from the bottom of our joyful hearts...We love you all!

by Michelle Buckalew, Animal World USA president

Tips for Keeping a Senior Cat Feeling Young

Wendy Diamond's Tips for Keeping a Senior Cat Feeling Young

Watching our pets grow old is never easy, but Today pet lifestyle contributor and Animal Fair editor-in-chief Wendy Diamond knows how to make your pet's twilight years golden rather than grim. Cats are considered seniors at the ripe age of 11, but that doesn't mean they have to lose their spark!

1. Assess Your Cat's Age
Wendy has partnered with Hill's Science Diet to find out how old cats really feel with the launch of the new Science Diet CatAge Quiz. By answering a handful of few simple questions you can determine your cat's real age and pick up some tips to help your feline friend retain their youthful vigor. You can take the quiz by visiting HillsPet.com/DefyAge. And once you have assessed your cat's true age, you can start focusing on how to work against the clock and keep your cat feeling young and healthy as they turn 11+!

2. A healthy body is nothing without a healthy mind to match!
Aging sooner or later always affects the mind, regardless of species. Older cats may become bored or disinterested in activity and thus it is imperative to keep their minds active and engaged in order to stave off the trappings of old age like senility, or depression. Incorporating exploration and problem solving into your cat's daily routine will keep your cats intellect as sharp as their claws! Use Hagen's Cat Design Senses Food Maze. This incredible product makes your cat have to sharpen its mind as much as its claws as it figures out how to retrieve tasty morsels from this ever changing contraption. The food maze is affixed atop a food bowl like a tower with multiple chambers and openings that all spin and rotate for your cat to explore.

3. Skin Care is Essential
As any organism ages, the functions of life begin to slow down, which is why you need to stimulate your cat's skin to keep them feeling like a kitten and to release their natural oils. These oils promote healthy skin and fur and are essential to your cats comfort. These natural oils benefit skin elasticity, which is a quality of youthful skin that depletes with age. By keeping your cat's skin youthful you build their protection against the cuts and scratches that can plague dry, brittle skin. The Cat Spa and Cat-Comb products are two excellent ways to encourage your cat to get the natural oils flowing on their own.

4. You Are What You Eat
The saying "You are what you eat" applies to animals just as much as it does to humans! That's why it's so important to be mindful of what is going into your cat's stomach. Older cats have delicate digestive systems, and their ability to extract nutrition from their food begins to diminish. Pet parents need to make sure that the food that their aging feline consumes is composed of quality ingredients, bursting with nutrition. Feed your senior cat Hill's Science Diet Senior 11+ Age Defying Cat Food. Their breakthrough formula of antioxidants and omega 6 fatty acids, alongside wholesome ingredients that address the four signs of aging, help senior cats feel younger in just 30 days. The special formula includes fish oil for healthy brain function, small, easily chewed and digested, kibble, L-Carnitine to increase lean muscle development and agility, Phosphorus for bladder health, and Amino Acids to maintain healthy organs.

5. Visit Your Vet
This may seem like obvious advice but frequent trips to the veterinarian's office can keep your cat feeling young and vibrant, and could possibly save their lives. Many people attribute behavioral changes in older cats exclusively to the aging process, and while some elderly cats will naturally slow down, this isn't always the case. Always consult a medical professional when your cat acts odd and never assume that new, altered, or strange behavior is something that a pet parent can turn a blind eye towards. By staying on top of your cat's health you are infinitely more likely to catch a potential problem before your cat has the worst of it!

6. Increase Agility
Consider how you can rearrange your home to suit your cats needs. Place ramps leading to your cat's favorite places and treat your cat to a daily massage (it will make for excellent quality time anyway) to stimulate healthy musculature without putting to much pressure on their paws! This gentle approach to feline fitness will leave your cat agile and amiable.

Open Letter Regarding Memphis Animal Services

The Tragedy of Memphis Animal Services....
by Michelle Buckalew, Animal World USA president

Many are asking if anyone is attempting to do anything regarding the continuing and heartbreaking tragedy of Memphis Animal Services. Yes, of course. There are many citizens who have been working on this and are continuing to work to change the tragedy of Memphis Animal Services. Indeed some of us have been working on this from many different angles and on several fronts for a long time. And, no we will not give up. Please know that Memphis animal advocates are not turning a blind eye or deaf ear to this ongoing, beyond heartbreaking problem.

Unacceptable killing of healthy shelter animals is going on from the east coast to the west coast and everywhere in between. Four million pets a year are euthanized. Many communities have its “barriers” to ending the unacceptable killing, and we are working to overcome ours--we are. We here in Memphis will not ever give up until change is implemented for the innocent animals.

To anyone who is as saddened or fustrated as we are for the precious animals, please know we are working on change. We are fighting some tremendous obstacles as many of you who have been following the tragedy have seen. Change is going to come.

Thank you for reading and sharing this article. God Bless You all who are encouraging and seeking to help us with positive energy. As we know, working together to bring about needed change for the animals is the best way. The unconditional love of the animals keeps us going ...when it seems we are up against all odds. The lessons that the amazing animals teach us are our guiding light.

Please read 2008 Animal World USA magazine article, A Clarion Call for Compassionate Leadership: An Open Letter to the City of Memphis: http://www.animallawcoalition.com/public-shelters/article/323

Photo is at one of the scores of offsite adoption events Animal World USA organized with Memphis Animal Services after above 2008 Open Letter in Animal World magazine.

International Homeless Animals Day

International Homeless Animals Day


The third Saturday of August each year is observed as International Homeless Animals Day. International Society of Animal Rights initiated this observance in 1991. and each year it has grown awareness for the homeless animals.

This day is an opportunity for all of us to collectively acknowledge the problem and take an action to bring about a solution to help homeless animals in our community. These animals need us all to help them. There are companion animals who are in shelters, rescue groups or who have still yet to be born that suffer or wait for homes to call their own.

In 2001 three friends and myself organized the first Homeless Animals Day event in Memphis, Tennessee. Kathy Bonney, Stephanie Talley, Yvette Mock and myself pulled resources together and held an event at midtown Memphis' beautiful Overton Park. It brought over 20 groups and shelters together for the first time for an organized multi-group, animal-related event in Memphis. The popular Surfin' Cowboys with Linzie Butler played their reggae blues music and helped us rock.

The fun-filled event which started at 6:00 pm at the Overton Park Shell amphitheater was an adoption event, pet parade of hopeful adoptables & rescued animals who had been already been adopted. Attendees were able to sign up with a group, learn more and/or adopt a precious animal. We ended the event with a candlelight vigil. The wonderful friendships that were built that day will last a lifetime. And, the paths that many of us set out on for the precious animals have changed our lives forever.

Here are links for a couple of blurbs for that August 18, 2001 event.
Memphis Daily News http://www.memphisdailynews.com/editorial/Article.aspx?id=23964
Memphis Flyer http://www.memphisflyer.com/memphis/saturday-august-18/Content?oid=1106679

My friends and I were not part of any organized group, but we knew individually that helping animals in a collective manner was something we wanted to do on this special day. Shining the spotlight on the dedicated, wonderful people and groups who were helping animals was also a goal for us.

International Homeless Animals Day is an occasion that no matter who you are or where you are located... you can make a difference for one or more homeless animals who need you. Some ideas:

1. Organize an event that will bring awareness for the homeless animals.
2. Visit your local shelter and adopt a pet.
3. Help bring awareness for spay- neuter programs as a solution in your community.
4. Donate your talent to a local shelter, spay-neuter, humane or rescue group.
5. Connect with other animal lovers and start a coalition to help animals.
6. Donate newspaper, toys, beds or food to your shelter-whatever they will take.
7. Promote education. Ask an educator to coordinate a project during the year.
8. Take action through your local government if problems exist at your shelter.
9. Never ever give up in seeking solutions to injustices that are happening to animals in your community.
10. Post adoptable pics or websites that help animals in your emails.

To learn more about Homeless Animals Day, please visit International Society of Animal Rights website at http://www.isaronline.org/

To become involved in the Animal World USA-International Weeks for the Animals campaign, please visit Animal World USA at http://www.animalworldusa.org/

Know that your unique special gift and talent can change the plight and history for animals in greater ways than you can ever imagine. It could possibly set you on a path that you have only dreamed of in terms of fulfilling your destiny.

Michelle Buckalew, Animal World USA-International president

International Youth Day August 12, 2011: "Change Our World"

Animal World USA-International is honored to work with youth throughout the year and is pleased to turn the spotlight and celebrate International Youth Day. This year's Youth Day theme is "Change Our World."

Through the Animal World USA-International Youth Leadership program, A.S.T.R.O. educational program and global Weeks for the Animals campaign, we connect with young ones in communities around the globe. Animal World USA-International salutes and seeks to honor our future generation of leaders everyday.

On August 12th, as International Youth Day 2011 is being celebrated, we encourage everyone to reach out to a young one showing your love and respect. On this day commit to making a better and more loving world for them. They need us all to lead, mentor and guide them. They need our life experience, inspiration and protection. Let us help and empower them to "Change Our World!"

History of International Youth Day
International Youth Day is the designated time to commemorate the power and strength of the youth all around the globe. International Youth Day has been celebrated every year on 12th August since 1999. United Nations designated this annual event to build awareness for young people.

The purpose of International Youth Day:
International Youth Day purpose is to endorse social consciousness, particularly among youth. The World Program of Action for Youth attempts to focus on specific areas. The 10 areas are starvation, poverty, education, employment, health, drug exploitation, childhood felony, recreation events, Child and young women, Environment. The International Youth Day suggests that regional, countrywide and worldwide communities implement the program.

The activities of International Youth Day:
The United Nations marked out the youth, the age between 15 to 24 years. This is one sixth of the global populace. The youth will develop the countries to increase preciously in 21st century in all sides.

Many activities and events that take place around the world on International Youth Day promote the benefits that young people bring into the world. Many countries participate in this global event, which may include youth conferences on issues such as education and employment. Other activities include concerts promoting the world’s youth, as well as various sporting events, parades and mobile exhibitions that showcase young people’s achievements.

Visit Animal World USA website to see how we celebrate youth everyday:
http://www.animalworldusa.org/

Nominate a young one or classroom for our Animal World USA-International Youth Leadership award. http://www.animalworldusa.org/Youth-Leadership.html

Visit United Nations Youth Day website:
http://www.un.org/en/events/youthday/

See how Africa is celebrating International Youth Day at Africa Weeks website:
http://www.africaanimals.org/information.html

2nd Annual Africa Week for the Animals Coming August 1-14, 2011!

Animal World USA-International is pleased to announce that the 2nd Africa Weeks for the Animals is scheduled for August 1-14, 2011. The special weeks will highlight the importance that African animals play in our world and bring communities together on behalf of the amazing animals. The wonderfully humane leaders and young people in Africa will be highlighted along with the African organizations that help the animals.

The Africa Weeks are designed to celebrate and build awareness on behalf of African animals and efforts being made to save them from the challenges they face, including many species from extinction. Africa Weeks for the Animals is bringing together advocates, educators, humane organizations, sanctuaries, students, community leaders, and caring citizens in two important weeks of activities.

The weeks will feature festivals, fundraiser events, educational activities, animal watching/walking tours, blessings of the animals, low cost vaccination/spay and neuter opportunities, young people creating art and essays about wildlife, conservation initiatives, vegetarian festivals and more! African organizations will be spotlighted to help bring attention their needs in caring for the incredible animals they work with everyday. The Africa Weeks for Animals is a unique opportunity to help the African animals by all of us collectively coming together on their behalf.

Precious lives will be saved and important relationships built during the weeks. If you would like to learn more or become involved please call 877-454-0807 or visit the official website at http://africaanimals.org/ You may also learn more about the AWUSA-International Weeks campaign at http://www.animalworldusa.org/

Animal World USA-International mission: Inspiring, educating and empowering communities to understand, love, and protect the animals of our world.

1st Annual New Jersey Week for the Animals Coming July 9-17, 2011

(Trenton, NJ)Animal World USA is pleased to announce the 1st New Jersey Week for the Animals will kick off Saturday, July 9, 2011 and run through Sunday, July 17, 2011. The exciting celebration will celebrate and recognize the unique and life-changing role that animals play in the lives of citizens through all walks of life.

The week will be bringing together educators, animal shelters, humane organizations, sanctuaries, restaurants, businesses, students, musicians, artists, community leaders, decision makers and caring citizens in an action-packed compassionate week of community activities for the animals! This extraordinary week will feature a multitude of awesome fun-filled pet adoption events, events for the farm animals, festivals and blessing of the animals, bird days, wildlife activities, free and low cost spay/neuter, pet food donations to help local pet owners/orgs, vegetarian get-togethers, a salute to the military and so very much more!

Precious lives will be saved and communities transformed during this incredible week. The New Jersey for the Animals will build new exciting relationships for the animals like never before. Visit the official website for complete contact info and calendar at http://njanimals.org/

Help Please Help Animals who were in 2011 Alabama Tornadoes

THE ANIMAL VICTIMS OF THE ALABAMA TORNADOES URGENTLY NEED YOUR HELP. DONATIONS AND SUPPLIES URGENTLY NEEDED!

Parts of Alabama have been totally destroyed. This parts of Alabama have been totqall y destroyed. The animals and those helping the animals are in desperate need of donations and supplies. Donating just $1 can buy a can of dog food that will save a starving dog's life. Donating $5 can do so much to help many animals. Please everyone, do anything you can to help these animals who do not understand what has happened to them.

1) Greater Birmingham Humane Society for areas surrounding Birmingham - 300 Snow Drive, Birmingham, AL (off of West Oxmoor Rd) - phone 205-942-1211 - http://www.gbhs.org/

Donations are the number one need so they can purchase items that are not being donated. Please go to the GBHS website at http://www.gbhs.org/ to donate or mail donations to:

Greater Birmingham Humane Society
300 Snow DriveBirmingham, AL 35209

Supplies needed:
Dog Food- Small bags, and moist/canned cases needed mostCat Food- Small bags, and moist/canned cases needed mostCratesWaterDog Beds, Food & Water BowlsTowelsTreatsCat litterBleach, Paper towels, & Other cleaning supplies Office Supplies- copy paper and sharpie markersLatex glovesGauzeHandsoap & dishsoapKleenexPet Shampoo, regular formula (NOT flea formula)Yellow professional mop buckets
Horse supplies
Low water troughs
Goat feed

2) Metro Animal Shelter of Tuscaloosa - 3140 35th Street, Tuscaloosa, AL 35401 - 205-752-9101 - http://www.metroanimalshelter.org/index.html

This shelter is run by the city and county; however, I'm sure donations are appreciated at this time for the animal emergency situation.

Supplies needed:
Dog Food- Small bags, and moist/canned cases needed mostCat Food- Small bags, and moist/canned cases needed most
Toys for dogs and cats to help with their post traumatic stress
Water
CratesDog Houses
Collars/Leashes
Pet Bowls
Dog Beds, Food & Water BowlsBlankets
TowelsTreatsCat litter/Litterbox liners
Laundry detergent
Bleach, Paper towels, & Other cleaning supplies Office Supplies- copy paper and sharpie markersLatex glovesGauzeHandsoap & dishsoapKleenexPet Shampoo, regular tearless formula (NOT flea formula)Yellow professional mop buckets
Horse supplies
Feed for farm animals
Heartworm Preventative - Interceptor, Heartguard, Advantage Multi
Flea/Tick Preventative - Frontline, K9 Advantix, Advantage

3) Humane Society of West Alabama - The Flea Market at 3201 Main Avenue in Northport (main location for donation/supplies drop off) - 205-339-3331 and 205 554-0011 - http://www.humanesocietyofwa.org/

Cash donations are desperately needed due to banks being destroyed. Go to http://www.humanesocietyofwa.org/ for details of donations via paypal or mail your donation to:

Humane Society of West Alabama
1515 Veterans Memorial Parkway
Tuscaloosa, AL 35404

Supplies needed (drop at 3201 Main Ave. in Northport):
Crates and Pet Carriers of all sizes
Dog Food- Small bags, and moist/canned cases needed mostCat Food- Small bags, and moist/canned cases needed mostToys for dogs and cats to help with their post traumatic stress
Collars/Leashes
Pet Bowls
Dog Beds, Food & Water BowlsBlankets
TowelsTreatsCat litter/Litterbox liners
Pet Shampoo, regular tearless formula (NOT flea formula)Purified Water
Dog Houses
Laundry detergent
Bleach, Paper towels, & Other cleaning supplies Office Supplies- copy paper and sharpie markersLatex glovesGauzeHandsoap & dishsoapKleenexYellow professional mop buckets
Horse supplies
Feed for farm animals
Heartworm Preventative - Heartguard, Interceptor
Flea/Tick Preventative - Frontline, K9 Advantix, Advantage or Advantage Multi
Medication for pets - Clavamox especially
Dry powder milk replacer for kittens
Small animal nursing bottles

4) Alabama SPCA - contact Mani at 205-310-9635 or mfbert@live.com - they have a storage facility in Northport and desperately need donations and supplies.

Specific supplies requested from Mani today:
Heartworm Preventative - Heartguard, Interceptor, Advantage Multi
Flea/Tick Preventative - Frontline, K9 Advantix, Advantage
Combo vaccinations for dogs and cats, Bordatella
Meciations - Clavamox especially

Two adjacent counties were hard hit, too and with no media exposre. They are are desperate for supplies, donations and volunteers. These are small, rural areas and their shelters are do the very best they can, but need help. Please don't forget about them.

5) Hale County area - Hale County Humane Society - 20 Correction Drive, Greensboro, AL - 334-624-8120 - http://www.petfinder.com/shelters/AL251.html

Donations are desperately needed. Please mail donations to:

Hale County Humane Society
PO Box 476
Greensboro, AL 36744

Supplies needed:
Crates and Pet Carriers of all sizes
Dog Food- dry and canned
Cat Food- dry and canned
Toys for dogs and cats to help with their post traumatic stress
Collars/Leashes
Pet Bowls
Dog Beds, Food & Water BowlsBlankets
TowelsTreatsCat litter/Litterbox liners
Pet Shampoo, regular tearless formula (NOT flea formula)Purified Water
Dog Houses
Laundry detergent
Bleach, Paper towels, & Other cleaning supplies Office Supplies- copy paper and sharpie markersLatex glovesGauzeHandsoap & dishsoapKleenexYellow professional mop buckets
Horse supplies
Feed for farm animals
Heartworm Preventative - Heartguard, Interceptor
Flea/Tick Preventative - Frontline, K9 Advantix, Advantage or Advantage Multi
Medication for pets - Clavamox especially
Dry powder milk replacer for kittens
Small animal nursing bottles

6) Walker County area/ Walker County Humane Society - donations and supplies should be dropped off at the EMA building at 16781 Hwy 69 S Jasper, AL (located closer to Oakman, AL) - http://www.animalshelter.org/shelters/Walker_County_Humane_Society_rId90_rS_pC.html

Walker County Humane Society
2302 Birmingham Avenue
Jasper, AL 35501
Phone: 205-221-6621Email: molly@traveller.comSupplies needed:
Crates and Pet Carriers of all sizes
Dog Food- dry and canned
Cat Food- dry and canned
Toys for dogs and cats to help with their post traumatic stress
Collars/Leashes
Pet Bowls
Dog Beds, Food & Water BowlsBlankets
TowelsTreatsCat litter/Litterbox liners
Pet Shampoo, regular tearless formula (NOT flea formula)Purified Water
Dog Houses
Laundry detergent
Bleach, Paper towels, & Other cleaning supplies Office Supplies- copy paper and sharpie markersLatex glovesGauzeHandsoap & dishsoapKleenexYellow professional mop buckets
Horse supplies
Feed for farm animals
Heartworm Preventative - Heartguard, Interceptor
Flea/Tick Preventative - Frontline, K9 Advantix, Advantage or Advantage Multi
Medication for pets - Clavamox especially
Dry powder milk replacer for kittens
Small animal nursing bottles

Please note....there are many more areas in need, than the above listed; however, these were in the direct path of the super cell F5 tornado.

See a list of organizations & shelters at http://www.alabamaanimals.org/

Governor Bev Perdue Proclaims 4th Annual North Carolina Week for the Animals April 30-May 8, 2011!

(Raleigh, NC)Animal World USA is pleased to announce that Governor Bev Perdue has graciously proclaimed 4th Annual North Carolina Week for the Animals Saturday, April 30-May 8, 2011. The special week will highlight the importance that animals play in our lives and bring communities together on behalf of the animals throughout the great state of North Carolina.

This statewide event is designed to celebrate and build awareness on behalf of all animals, as well as recognize the organizations and citizens who support them. The NC Week for the Animals is bringing together educators, animal shelters, rescue organizations, sanctuaries, businesses, students, musicians, artists, pastors, community leaders, and caring citizens in an exciting week of community-building activities.

The fun-filled week will feature awesome pet adoption festivals and events, pet therapy in hospitals, school/art displays and activities, kid's art day, birdhouse making activites, library story-telling and R.E.A.D. dog activities, blessings of the animals at shelters and parks, concerts, book signings, special Animal World USA magazine to celebrate the week, low cost spay and neuter opportunities, meet and greet events, pet therapy in over 60 classrooms including special needs students, salute to Ft. Bragg K-9's and much more!

All these events will shine the spotlight on the amazing animals and compassionate people of North Carolina who love them.
Precious lives which will be saved and communities will be transformed during this week through a wide variety of animal-related events and activities. Special events are being scheduled and can be viewed on the website calendar, and more are being added regularly.

If you would like to learn more, become involved, collectively organize an event or list an event, please call 877-454-0807 or visit the official website for complete contact and event information at http://ncanimals.org/

Governor Jack Markell Officially Proclaims Delaware Week for the Animals April 16-24, 2011

(Dover, Delaware) Animal World USA is excited to announce Governor Jack Markell has officially proclaimed the 4th Annual Delaware Week for the Animals April 16-24, 2011!

Events that are happening statewide will include fun-filled pet adoption fairs, spay/neuter awareness events, shelter adoption days, R.E.A.D. dog programs in libraries, Girl Scout activities, Bingo events, visits with the farm animals, pet food donations, horse benefits, low cost vaccinations, a salute to the military and working K-9's and therapy dogs visiting hospitals and nursing homes. Exciting Earth Day events will also be taking place during the week underscoring our need to protect the planet.

Also to be included are feline fundraisers, special programs at the sanctuaries, blessing for the animals, and full-filled festival days for families to come and enjoy food, music and the amazing animals! Delaware Week for the Animals is bringing together animal shelters, rescue organizations, sanctuaries, businesses, students, musicians, artists, educators, community leaders, and caring citizens in an exciting week of community-building activities.

Precious lives which will be saved and communities will be transformed during this week with a wide variety of animal-related events and activities. A list of events are scheduled on the website calendar. Events are being added daily right up until kick-off of the week.

you would like to learn more, become involved or schedule an event, please visit the official website at http://www.delawareanimals.com/ For more information, please call 877-454-0807 or email info@animalworldusa.org

3rd Annual Kentucky Week for the Animals Coming April 9-17, 2011

(Frankfort, KY) Animal World USA is pleased to announce the 3rd Annual Kentucky Week for the Animals will kick off Saturday, April 9th and go through Sunday, April 17, 2011.

The statewide celebration is designed to celebrate and recognize the unique and life-changing role that animals play in the lives of citizens through all walks of life. The week will bring underscore community spirit as people come together on behalf of the animals across the beautiful Bluegrass state, that has given us a love and appreciation of horses unlike any other state in our great union.

Beginning on the kick-off day of Saturday, April 9th, Kentucky Week for the Animals will be bringing together educators, animal shelters, libraries, humane organizations, sanctuaries, restaurants, businesses, students, musicians, artists, community leaders, decision makers and caring citizens in an action-packed compassionate week of community activities for the animals in an unprecedented manner!

This extraordinary week will feature awesome animal-themed events at various Kentucky libraries, pet first aid classes, scores of awesome fun-filled pet adoption events, feedings for the farm animals, festivals and blessings of the animals, free and low cost spay/neuter opportunities, activities to help the cats, training classes, unique ways to help the horses, student activities, library animal storytelling events, free and/or low cost vaccinations, a salute to the working K-9's, the military and so very much more!

Every kind of fun event imaginable is being planned, and we need everyone to share with our Kentucky friends about the amazing week approaching for Kentucky animals!

The spotlight will shine on the amazing animals and compassionate people across Kentucky who love them and work tirelessly on their behalf--much of the time with limited resources. Precious lives will be saved and communities transformed during this incredible week.

The 3rd Annual Kentucky Week for the Animals will build more new relationships for the animals and people in a history-making manner. Visit the official website for complete contact and event information at http://kentuckyanimals.org/ Please call 877-454-0807 or email info@animalworldusa.org for more information.

Governor Bobby Jindal officially proclaims 3rd Annual Louisiana Week for the Animals Saturday, March 19 through Sunday, March 27, 2011

(New Orleans, LA) Animal World USA is pleased to announce Governor Bobby Jindal has officially proclaimed the 3rd Annual Louisiana Week for the Animals Saturday, March 19 through Sunday, March 27, 2011.

The statewide celebration is designed to celebrate and recognize the unique and life-changing role that animals play in the lives of citizens through all walks of life. The week will again underscore community spirit throughout Louisiana as people come together on behalf of the amazing animals.

Louisiana Week for the Animals will be bringing together educators, animal shelters, humane organizations, sanctuaries, restaurants, businesses, students, musicians, artists, community leaders, decision makers and caring citizens in an action-packed compassionate week of community activities for the animals!

This extraordinary week will feature awesome fun-filled pet adoption events, pet therapy, library events for the animals, festivals and blessings of the animals, low cost spay/neuter opportunities, microchipping, The Gatsby Strut, Woofstock,, LSU School of Veterinary Medicine International Animals in Art Exhibition, library animal storytelling and special guest events, low cost vaccinations, shelter beautification days, first aid classes, rabbit adoption days, EarthFest, wildlife activities, pet food/supply donation opportunities to help local orgs, a salute to the military and so much more!

Precious lives will be saved and communities transformed during this incredible week. The 3rd Annual Louisiana Week for the Animals will build new relationships for the animals and save precious lives once again. Visit the official website for complete contact and event information at http://www.louisianaanimals.org/ and/or call 877-454-0807.

Bird Watching: An Ideal Hobby for a Nature Lover

Bird watching directly connects you to an amazing environment where small feathered creatures twitter happily, try to keep their household running or flap their wings. This paradise compared to tensions of every day life can be seen right in your own garden so you do not have to travel far away to a wild life reserve, you are able to create your own sanctuary.

Bird watching involves detailed observations of looks, behaviors, sounds, and homes of different species of birds and their activities. Passionate bird watchers travel to all corners of the world .They make a detailed list of species to be observed in different places or at different parts of year.

In the USA, for example over 50 million people have this hobby. If you are determined to do this relaxing practice as a pastime, you’d better read some useful tips which will make your experience more exciting. You can enter the bird kingdom just by stepping out to your garden where you can find local birds flocking together everyday.

Next step is to visit the local park where you will observe more variations of bird species. Later you will be ready to reach out remote areas for a larger exploration. The best part of the day to observe is early morning. This is the time when you can see the highest number of birds because then they are at their busiest time of searching of food.

The spring and autumn are the best times of the year for bird watchers as countless varieties of migratory birds fly southwards from the chilly north. Every bird watcher must carry a pen, notebook, a field guide with photos and descriptions of variety of birds and a binocular. A spotting scope and a camera are the things which you will need when you mature in your experience.

There are numerous organizations which focus on the interests of serious bird watchers. Bird watching is a perfect hobby for everybody no matter age or gender, in solitude or in the company which is a way of learning about the rules of nature.

By: Petscomfort

Important Cat Urinary Health Tips for your Feline Friend.

By Darlene Norris

Are you frustrated and worried about the cat urinary problems your furball is having? Is a recurring cat bladder infection becoming a serious issue?

Here are five simple ways you can help promote good cat urinary health for your feline friend.

Keeping Your Cat Healthy From The Inside Out

An excellent diet is the foundation of any health program. Most cat owners want the best for their kitties, so you should do your own research if you want to keep your cat healthy.Ever wonder why cats don't seem to drink much water? It's because they're meant to get most of their water from their food. A cat in the wild eats mice and other prey animals.

Since a mouse is over 90% water, our wild feline friend has already satisfied most of his water requirements. When we take a cat out of his natural environment and feed him a low-moisture diet of dry food, we're heading for disaster in the form of cat bladder infection. High-quality canned food has a moisture level of around 75%, which is much closer to a natural diet.

Plenty Of Water Is Essential For Good Cat Urinary Health

Even if you're feeding a canned food, it's still essential to make sure your kitty has access to plenty of fresh, clean water. It's a proven fact that the best way to prevent cat urinary problems is to keep the water going through your cat. This prevents his urine from becoming too concentrated, and flushes out toxins that can lead to cat bladder stones.

Control Cat Stress

Cat stress has been linked to feline idiopathic cystitis, which is a bladder inflammation that doesn't seem to have a cause. This condition is becoming more common in cats, and is considered to be a modern problem. Sources of stress include moving to a new home, adding a new pet or person to the household, seeing a strange animal outside, being bothered by another pet in the home, and just being an inside cat. It's very important to be on the look-out for anything that could be stressing your cat.

Exercise Is Important

We often neglect exercise for ourselves, not to mention our pets. But exercise is very important for optimum health. Not only is it good for your cat physically, but it's important mentally, as well. If your cat is bored, he's more likely to be a victim of cat stress.Provide your cat with toys to play with, and make sure you get him running around the house and out of breath at least twice a day.

Natural Feline Urinary Support Is Important

There are many natural remedies for pets on the market these days. It can be very difficult to choose the best one for your cat. Here are a few tips:

You'll want to be sure the remedy is formulated especially for pets. Some herbs are not safe for pets, or the dosage may be too high for a small animal. When you purchase a remedy made especially for pets, you'll be confident in its safety. A second requirement is that the company has been in business for many years, and has the highest reputation for producing the best-quality pet remedies. Look past the hype to find a company with years of experience in this field. The remedy needs to be easy to administer. You won't use it for long if you have to fight with your cat all the time to get it into him.

Preventing cat urinary problems is easier than treating them. Now it's time to promote cat urinary health by putting these steps into action.

Darlene Norris has combined her long-time interest in natural healing with her experience working at a vet clinic to bring you her new website, Natural Pet Urinary Health. Learn more about cat urinary health, and find the best place to buy herbal pet remedies at http://naturalpeturinaryhealth.com/

Governor Bentley Officially Proclaims 2nd Annual Alabama Week for the Animals

Animal World USA is pleased to announce that Governor Robert Bentley has officially proclaimed 2nd Alabama Week for the Animals March 5-13, 2011. The special governor-proclaimed week will highlight the importance that animals play in our lives and bring communities together on behalf of the animals throughout the great state of Alabama.

This statewide event is designed to celebrate and build awareness on behalf of all animals, as well as recognize the organizations and citizens who support them. The special week is once again bringing together educators, advocates, animal shelters, rescue organizations, sanctuaries, businesses, students, musicians, artists, community leaders, and caring citizens in an exciting week of community-building activities.

The exciting week will feature pet adoption festivals, low cost spay neuter events, feral cat initiatives, wildlife activities, educational events and a variety of life-saving community events statewide. All these events will shine the spotlight on the amazing animals, beauty and compassionate people of Alabama.

The week presents a unique opportunity to change the history for the animals by collectively coming together through goodwill. Precious lives which will be saved and communities will be transformed during this week through a wide variety of animal-related events and activities.

If you would like to learn more, please call 877-454-0807 or visit the official website. www.alabamaanimals.org/

You may also learn more about the AWUSA Weeks campaign at http://www.animalworldusa.org/

Parallel Vegan Universe(s)

Theoretical physics is catching up with science fiction—making the possibility of more ethically-advanced extra-dimensional worlds plausible.

By Mat Thomas, http://www.animalrighter.org/

Have you ever wondered whether there might be another you wandering around somewhere, perhaps on a planet much like our own but subtly or even drastically different? If so, then you may have actually created such a person in another reality simply by thinking about it!

Sound farfetched? Well, Dr. Brian Greene doesn't think so. As a bestselling author and physics professor at Columbia University, he's done the math, and says it suggests that our universe may be merely one of a potentially infinite number that exists within an ever-expanding multiverse. Of course, we can't see or visit these alternate domains (just yet, anyway) because, according to string theory, reality vibrates on at least ten or eleven mathematically-identifiable dimensions, and we Earthlings only experience three spatial dimensions (plus one of time).

Nevertheless, Professor Greene believes scientists could perhaps prove the existence of parallel universes by formulating a unifying Theory of Everything that resolves basic inconsistencies between Einsteinian relativity and quantum mechanics (thereby solving the great mystery of why matter behaves so differently on the macro and microcosmic levels).

If parallel universes were discovered, it would radically revolutionize how we understand the very nature of reality. Readers wanting a comprehensive but accessible explanation of these heady ideas should check out Dr. Greene's new book, The Hidden Reality: Parallel Universes and the Deep Laws of the Cosmos. However, what interests me most at the moment is not the nitty-gritty numbers behind string theory, but rather imagining what kinds of worlds may exist out there beyond our current ken. And, especially because Professor Greene is a vegan who stopped eating meat as a nine year old to avoid eradicating animals' existence, my mind is led to consider a grand possibility: that somewhere, on some other plane of reality, there are worlds where people don't kill animals for food or any other unnecessary reason.

Perhaps a good place to begin such a conceptual journey is with an example of a parallel universe from pop culture—specifically the classic 1967 Star Trek episode “Mirror, Mirror”* in which a malfunctioning transporter beams Captain Kirk and three Federation starship officers into an alternate world (with their doubles simultaneously materializing on the Enterprise). In this strange reality, the intrepid interstellar space explorers boldly encounter their crewmates' evil counterparts—including a stylishly goateed Mr. Spock who is still eminently logical but trapped in an irrationally cruel and ruthless reality of imperial intrigue, genocide and assassinations. Like all Vulcans, Spock (the original at least) is a pointy-eared alien who espouses non-violence and practices ethical veganism.

Meanwhile, in our reality, Leonard Nimoy, the actor who personifies the hyper-intelligent and super-strong Science Officer, is a vegetarian—probably because he was convinced by the philosophy of the fictional character he portrayed to stop eating meat, showing how even “parallel” made-up people can have tangible effects on our world.

If Spock's malevolent doppelganger is any indication of the potential differences between our universe and others populating the multiverse, then it is quite conceivable that perhaps, somewhere among the infinite possible realms, PETA president Ingrid Newkirk is CEO of McDonalds, for example, or there’s a world where sentient plant beings breed humans on factory farms for meat. Conversely, there may also be worlds where avid hunting enthusiast Ted Nugent runs a sanctuary for injured wildlife, carnivorous chef Anthony Bourdain copacetically hosts a popular vegan cooking show called Kitchen Compassion, or there’s a smartphone app that translates most known species’ languages into human speech and vice versa. Statistically and probabilistically speaking, the variegated details between alternate worlds are essentially limitless.

While we are all stuck living in just one reality (for the time being, at least), in another sense animal rights advocates already live in a parallel universe ruled by a paradigm of brute force domination over other species. That is, we exist, individually and collectively, as a universe within a universe—right alongside a vast majority of people who either don't know or don't care, for instance, that the meat they eat is actually the dead flesh of animals who were tortured on factory farms before being painfully slaughtered on mechanized assembly lines.

We see the cruelty that others remain blind to, the horror hidden in plain sight, and feel empathy for the conscious creatures who so clearly share our inherent will to live and love. And as we strive to create a kinder, gentler world, one in which innocent animals aren't victimized for pleasure and profit, perchance our thoughts and actions in this reality are not only making a difference for animals here on our planet, but also creating divergent worlds throughout the multiverse where animal exploitation is universally condemned or utterly unthinkable.

What do you think other universes might be like? Express your creative visions in the “comments” section!

* Watch the full Star Trek episode "Mirror, Mirror" online for free at cbs.com.

Top 5 Most Amazing Examples of Animal Communication

by Andrew Latham

Animals might not have a "proper" language in which to communicate, but communicate they do and in an amazing variety of ways.

Top 5, Ants.
How do you organize a collective society of thousands of members without being able to say a word? Ants have found the answer in chemical communication. Ants have from 10 to 20 chemicals in different glands of their bodies depending on the species. Depending on the chemical released ants can signal alarm, invite friends to eat from a new food source or even organize military tactics when attacking an enemy, to mention a few of the 50 standard behavior patterns that have been observed by zoologists.

One of the most curious examples of ant's chemical communication is how they recognize dead ants when they sense the oleic acid that is released when an ant's body starts to decompose. A scientist with a dark sense of humor experimented with this method of communication by dropping a spot of oleic acid on a live ant. The other ants dutifully carted away the "dead" ant, screaming and kicking, to the cemetery outside the nest and continued to do so no matter how many times the poor "undead" ant walked back.

Top 4, Elephants
Elephants communicate a wide range of emotions using "elephant talk" by a combination of sound and body language signals that range from low frequency rumblings to high frequency trumpets, roars, bellows, barks and snorts. Interestingly many of the sounds in "elephant talk" are well below the level of human hearing but are so powerful elephants can hear them from several miles away.

Elephant communication is so complex; it is difficult for researchers what to make of it. Joyce Poole is a researcher that has dedicated over 20 years to the study of "elephant talk" has witnessed greetings between elephants that have been separated for a long time that included rushing together with their heads high up while flapping their ears and even putting their trunk into one another's mouth in a way of communicating the joy of meeting after a long time. Such communication and displays of affection strengthen the social networks between elephants.

Top 3, Bees
The search for food is always at the top of conversation subjects in animals and humans alike and bees are no exception. Searching for food is serious business for bees and finding it is a complicated ritual. Once food is found it is important to communicate the exact location to the rest of the hive. This is done by an amazing form of communication based on a series of dancelike movements that inform the hive of the quality and location of the food.

How do the bees communicate this vital information? The location of the food source is indicated by the rhythm of the dance and by the orientation of the axis of the tail with respect to gravity. If the food source is near the hive, a "round" dance is performed. A "tail-wagging" dance indicates that the food source is more than 80 meters (260 feet) away. This dance transmits precise information about direction as well as distance. The number of dance cycles performed by the bee in a certain length of time is inversely related to the distance of the food source. Thus, about 10 cycles are performed every 15 seconds for a food source 100 meters (330 feet) away, but only one cycle is made in that period if the food source is 10,000 meters (33,000 feet) away.

Top 2, Lions
Although lions are not renowned for their small talk skills research has shown that they are excellent communicators. A male's mighty roar is an obvious warning that can even freeze a prey or a male rival in its tracks. But lions are not all about killing, they are social cats, they will also roar just to keep in touch with the other members of the pride. This type of roar is softer and less assertive. One researcher reported a lion that was heard roaring every 15 minutes until his cousin answered. The chit chat continued for over 15 minutes until they finally met up to hang out, after which the roaring stopped.

Top 1, Plants talking to Animals
I know, plants are not animals but they still deserve Top 1. You will not believe how some plants display amazing skills communication with other plants and even animals in order to save their necks, or should I say stalks.

Lima bean plants, for instance, will release a chemical distress signal when attacked by spider mites that attracts other mites that enjoy feeding on spider mites.

Similarly, corn, tobacco and cotton plants when invaded by caterpillars will segregate airborne chemicals that attract wasps, a sworn enemy of caterpillars. This form of communication is not just a case of saying I am hurt, or hungry, or where to find food, it is a fabulously complex system that allows plants to call for the right type of help when needed and even warn other plants. For example, willow, poplar, alder and birch trees when attacked by caterpillars, fungus or powdery mildew will send out chemicals to jump start the defense systems of other undamaged plants.

Learn more from Andrew Latham at website http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Andrew_Latham#more-information

I Need a Hero

by Randi Bildner, Founder of The Bully Beat

It's 1995; I sit in the stands of Yankee Stadium and close my eyes. I listen carefully as the umpire shouts the familiar words "Play Ball!" As I allow this term to penetrate my being it's not hard to imagine 1958, "the good ol' days," a time when players and fans alike came together simply for the love of the game.

Taking in the true essence of "The House That Ruth Built" I can almost hear this benchmark term echo throughout stadiums across America. This tradition, signaling the start of "America's favorite pastime" has not changed but everything else has. Sadly this reality encompasses all sports and any realm that potentially lends itself to the birth of a hero. Looking around, things seem familiar, comfortable, good; families gather for an evening to watch their "heroes" take the stage.

Upon closer inspection something, everything has changed; for now, it is 2011, a lifetime away from the world the baseball players of 1958 knew when they graced these "sacred" grounds.

Looking back at a baseball roster for 1958, the names hit hard like the crack of the bat when Boston's Ted Williams hit the 17th grand slam of his career. Heroes one and all were playing for what would now be considered meager salaries. Their true wealth was their legacy— for these are the names that will live in our hearts forever.

Sadly, I understand those days of fun and innocence are long gone. Today's athletes play their respective sports very well (both figuratively and literally) causing a direct impact on the nature of these games and how we choose our heroes.

Once upon a time, a hero earned his or her title. Back then we too thrived as individuals and as a culture. Today with the collapse of morality, when our president personally phones Jeffrey Lurie (owner of the Philadelphia Eagles) to congratulate him on giving convicted dogfighter Michael Vick "… a fair second chance," we find ourselves in a sorry state and it's time to rework "humanity's code of ethics." Those who choose to forget Vick's actions mirror who and where we are in today's world.

Children lacking proper role models suffer from the inability to know right from wrong (particularly while their parents sit in the stands and cheer for criminals).

In April 2007, Michael Vick was implicated in an illegal interstate dogfighting ring that had operated for over five years. In August 2007, he pleaded guilty to federal felony charges and served 21 months in prison. Court documents show Vick personally participated in killing dogs; some were hanged, some were drowned, some beaten to death (their bodies slammed against cold concrete floors breaking their backs) and some were electrocuted.

This is not the simple thuggery that so many of Vick's peers (and their fans) consider to be part of the normal trappings of today's sports culture. Nor is it the occasional sensationalized celebrity misdeed over which we secretly thrill. These casual, habitual and routine brutalities would brand the average person insane.

"Murder is unique in that it abolishes the party it injures, so that society has to take the place of the victim and on his behalf demand atonement or grant forgiveness; it is the one crime in which society has a direct interest." ~W.H. Auden

My question: Why should a society be allowed to grant forgiveness on behalf of the murdered? HOW a society can forgive reprehensible actions where the victims are so pure, so innocent and the crime is so heinous is unfathomable?

Our society is divided when it comes to forgiving Michael Vick. WHY?remains a mystery to those who abhor Vick's actions at Bad Newz Kennels—Vick's personal "house of (canine) horrors".

While it is quite obvious that forgiveness comes easy for those whose conscience has been replaced by "big bucks," it remains perplexing how others not only forgive but heroicize a member of a deviant subculture whose mental constitution is the makeup of a sociopath.

According to actress and comedian Whoopi Goldberg, Vick should be forgiven because of his "culture." Ms. Goldberg defended Vick on the television show The View stating; "From where he comes from (in the South U.S.) dogfighting is not that unusual. For many people, dogs are sport." Goldberg continued, "There are certain things that are indicative to certain parts of our country." Goldberg surmised Vick's actions were a result of the mindset behind those he encountered while growing up.

Flash Forward… Vick had been playing for the Atlanta Falcons for six seasons before he was caught and admitted to federal criminal charges. It was during this time (while employed by the NFL) that Vick decided to moonlight as a dogfighter. The fact that he traveled in "certain" circles and lived "the life," (Vick's culture had drastically changed) could be one retort to Ms. Goldberg's ill-thought remark; another, stating culture to be the cause for a person to act as a deviant is not only a cop-out but is insulting.

Some acts can be forgiven and some not. Recently, Oprah Winfrey interviewed Dr. William Petit. Winfrey asked Petit if he could forgive the men who brutally tortured and murdered his entire family, setting his house on fire (while he lie on the basement floor unconscious). Waiting for Petit's answer, I silently repeated, "NO, please, do not let him forgive." I wanted to cheer when this husband and father of two stated a firm "NO" in response to Oprah's question.

In this day and age when an actress can gain notoriety through sexting, when the distinction between heroes and criminals are virtually non-existent, when deviants get to play a game for millions of dollars, when our nation's eyes are truly lonelier than ever (collectively we might wonder) "Where have you gone Joe DiMaggio….?"

Please visit Randi Bildner's wonderful website The Bully Beat

http://www.thebullybeat.org/

© The Bully Beat and Randi Gerzofsky Bildner. All Rights Reserved.

3rd Annual Florida Week for the Animals February 5-13, 2011

Florida Week for the Animals highlights the importance that animals play in our lives and bring communities together on behalf of the animals throughout the great state of Florida.

Animal World USA is pleased to announce that the 3rd Annual Florida Week for the Animals is scheduled for February 5-13, 2011. The special governor-proclaimed week will highlight the importance that animals play in our lives and bring communities together on behalf of the animals.

This statewide event is designed to celebrate and build awareness on behalf of all animals, as well as recognize the organizations and citizens who support them. The Florida Week for the Animals is once again bringing together educators, advocates, animal shelters, rescue organizations, sanctuaries, businesses, students, musicians, artists, community leaders, and caring citizens in an exciting week of community-building activities.

The exciting week will feature pet adoption festivals, wildlife activities, educational events and exciting variety of community events statewide. All these events will shine the spotlight on the amazing animals, beauty and people of Florida.

The week presents a unique opportunity to change the history for the animals by collectively coming together through all our goodwill. The official website with the amazing calendar of events is is http://www.floridaanimals.org/

Precious lives which will be saved and communities will be transformed during this week through a wide variety of events and activities.

If you would like to learn more or become involved, please call 877-454-0807 and/or visit the official website for complete contact information. You may also learn more about the Animal World USA Weeks campaign at http://www.animalworldusa.org/