Thursday, April 30, 2009

Important Notice From StartSampling


Effective Monday, May 4th, we will no longer be updating Spot’s Corner. We have enjoyed featuring this section and hope you did too! This decision was made due to low readership and participation and we want to put our energy into a section that will be more valuable to you as a member of StartSampling. If you have any suggestions or ideas as to other content you would like to see on StartSampling, please feel free to leave your comments in this section or e-mail us at support@startsampling.com. We value your membership and want to continue to offer content on our site that will allow our members to participate in the sampling community you have helped us create.

Sincerely,

StartSampling Staff

Hate ants in your Hummingbird feeder?

If you have a problem with ants getting into your Hummingbird feeder, try using the Ant Moat! The Ant Moat is a small plastic cup that fits between your hanger and the feeder. Fill the cup with water or petroleum jelly and it will stop the ants from getting to your Hummingbird feeder.

Click here for more information!

Wednesday, April 29, 2009

Pet of the Week

Baby – Tampa, FL

Hi! My name is Baby. I’m a handsome black boy that was brought into the shelter originally after my family became homeless. I’m a special kitty that has a birth defect that makes my right leg shorter than my left, although you would never know it. I can run and play like everyone else. It doesn’t affect me in the slightest, but it is one of the first things you’ll notice about me; but it just adds to my character! I am very reserved and sweet! My favorite toys include paper balls and string, so I’m easily entertained. According to my previous owners, I get along well with other cats, and have lived in a home with other dogs before, although I tend to ignore them. Children sometimes make me nervous, so I would do best in an adult only environment. I’m also a Meet Your Match Purple Private Investigator. This means that, “I’m working undercover to keep an eye on you and your household. You may not even know you’re under surveillance. I can vanish into thin air if anyone or anything interferes with my investigation. If you need a cat who knows how to stay out of trouble and will always keep your secrets, I just might take your case.”

I was brought in with my brother, who has since been adopted, so now I’m waiting for my chance to have a new forever home. I sometimes get overlooked because I’m a black cat, and since I’ve been at the shelter for so long, a generous donor has sponsored my adoption fee. If you’re looking for the purr-fect cat to make a great who would make a great addition into your life, come visit me in the cattery today!

Animal ID#: 7211944
Sex: Male/Neutered
Breed: Domestic Shorthair Mix
Age: 4 years, 8 months

Note from StartSampling: We would love for Baby to find a good home with a StartSampling member so he will get all of the love he needs and deserves. To help Baby get adopted, StartSampling will give the lucky, new parent of Baby $100.00 in Restaurant Gift Certificates, plus a StartSampling T-shirt and Thunder Tote Bag! Baby is ready and waiting to meet you, so hurry in and see him today! Once you have adopted Baby, Click here to contact us to receive your prizes!

For more information please contact the Humane Society of Tampa Bay, 3607 N. Armenia Ave., Tampa FL, 33607, (813) 876-7138.
http://www.humanesocietytampa.org/





Mambo – Downers Grove, IL

Hi, my name is Mambo. I was recently returned to the shelter because I became too protective of my elderly owners. The staff at WSHS felt that I could use some training so they sent me to a 2 week training class at Suburban K-9 in Barlett. Well, I am back from training (and better than ever I might add!) and ready to find my forever home. I now know all of my basic obedience commands and am leash trained. I am good with other dogs. I just love to play. I need to live in an adult home only with a family that has previous dog experience. I even come with a free session with my owner personal trainer.

Description: Shepherd Mix

Gender: Male
Age: 6 yrs. — born around 2003
Size: Medium
Neutered? Yes
House trained? Yes

If you'd like to meet me, please contact the West Suburban Humane Society, 1901 W. Ogden Ave, Downers Grove, IL, phone number 630-960-9600. http://www.wshs-dg.org/wshs/


Note to Animal Shelters or the Humane Society: If you work for an Animal Shelter or Humane Society and want to feature pets in the Pet of the Week section, please Click here to contact us. Thank you!

Tuesday, April 28, 2009

Turn every tree into a bird feeder!

Introducing Jim's Birdacious Bark Butter - Now Every Tree is a Birdfeeder ®

No bird food attracts more species of birds than Jim's Birdacious® Bark Butter®. Created by Jim Carpenter, founder of Wild Birds Unlimited, Bark Butter is a spreadable suet that can be easily smeared on tree bark or a Bark Butter Feeder to attract birds such as chickadees, nuthatches, catbirds, cardinals, mockingbirds, wrens, woodpeckers, towhees, Brown Creepers, grosbeaks, robins and more. This exclusive food option is made from suet, peanut butter and corn for a high energy treat your birds will love.

Jim has released his creation and made it available to the public! Stop by your local Wild Birds Unlimited store and pick up a tub of your own.

Click here for more information!

Monday, April 27, 2009

Do you have questions? I'd like to help!

I want to make Spot’s Corner a fun and informative place for you to get and share information on pets, so I'd like to hear from you!


Please let me know if there are certain topics or questions you would like for me to feature and I'll do my best to address them!


Click here to submit your question or topic. I look forward to hearing from you!

Friday, April 24, 2009

Kool Kong

Great for dogs who love playing in water! Dogs love Kool Kong all year round! A foam core insert floats them high in the water and also serves as a scent pad. This totally cool, floating retriever toy also performs well in field use.

Aquarobics fun and exercise.

* Long throws are easy with the unique throw rope.
* Their bright color makes them easy to spot if your dog does not.Dogs love the Kong rubber toys because of the unpredictable way they bounce and the peculiar hive shape.
*18” Nylon rope firmly attatched.

Click here to find out more!

Thursday, April 23, 2009

Dog food aggression

If your dog glares at you, snarls, growls and positions himself between you and the food he is actually saying to you "this is mine, go away, find your own". He is basically telling you that he considers himself as the leader or alpha dog in your household. Dog food aggression (sometimes called canine possession aggression) is a dominance issue, it is serious and needs to be addressed immediately, it won't just go away.

We've all made the mistake of laughing and even encouraging our feisty little dogs when they first display the "cute" signs of dog food aggression. Don't fall into this trap! Food or toy aggression in dogs should never be tolerated as you never know when it can escalate into something more dangerous for you or a family member.

Click here to find out more!

Wednesday, April 22, 2009

Pet of the Week

Cadence – Tampa, FL

Hey, I’m Cadence! I was brought into the HSTB with a chain imbedded in my neck that had to be surgically removed. Since I was chained up for all those years I developed a little incontinence problem. The vet here set me up with some inexpensive pills that I’ll need to take twice a day. I’ve been in foster care since I came in. My foster mom & the vet noticed that my neck wasn’t healing a after the first surgery, so they went in to take a closer look and found that there was and elastic pony tail band completely imbedded under skin! The band was extracted and now I’m working on getting better and enjoying a comfortable life! It is still important that the cats and dogs stay away from my food though! I discovered that I like to run and play and give kisses. My dream would be to go to a home with someone who can spend a lot of time with me as I do have to go outside every four hours or so. I am completely housebroken and never had an accident the whole month that I was with my foster family. My foster dad works from home and I just lounge around in the office with him until it is time for me and his two other little dogs to go outside! If you have the time and love to give me, will you please come visit? You will find my charm and sad eyes irresistible!

Animal #: 7270452
Sex: Female
Breed: Beagle/Mix
Age: 7 years 1 month

For more information please contact the Humane Society of Tampa Bay, 3607 N. Armenia Ave., Tampa FL, 33607, (813) 876-7138.
http://www.humanesocietytampa.org/



Akeela – Downers Grove, IL


Hi, I’m Akeela! I was adopted from this shelter as a kitten. Somehow I ended up at an animal control facility where I had been picked up as a stray. I was in pretty rough shape, but after a few weeks, my gorgeous coat returned as did my health. My markings are pretty unique and I am a very loving boy. Everyone who visits the cattery is treated with enthusiasm by me, with paws reaching out in greeting. I try my darndest to make everyone notice me. I am full of character and I am just waiting for someone to pick me. Will you pick me?

Description: White w/tabby markings
Gender: Male
Age: 3 yrs. — born around 2005
Neutered? Yes
Declawed? No

If you'd like to meet me, please contact the West Suburban Humane Society, 1901 W. Ogden Ave, Downers Grove, IL, phone number 630-960-9600. http://www.wshs-dg.org/wshs/

Tuesday, April 21, 2009

Cleaning seed feeders

Spring is here and it is time to get your feeders ready for the busy Spring and Summer bird season!
Decomposing and moldy seeds and hulls that accumulate on the feeder trays can make your birds sick. In addition to bird droppings on and around the feeders can spread infectious bird diseases. Experts say that you should clean your feeder every other week and more often in with heavy usage or in wet weather (which increases the mold problem). To clean your feeder, was it thoroughly in hot soapy water. If there have been reports of salmonella in your area, or you have notices sick birds, soak your feeder in one part bleach to nine parts of water. Make sure to rinse well to remove the bleach. Make sure the feeder is completely dry before filling it up again.

You also need to clean up the area below the feeders to remove the build up of hulls, uneaten seeds and other waste. Not only is this unhealthy for your birds, but it can cause you a rodent problem.

Happy feeding!

Monday, April 20, 2009

Cat hammock

Here is a box in which your cat will happily hang out for hours. Made of heavy-duty cardboard, it encloses a comfy hammock to snuggle in, gives your kitty an elevated spot off the ground, and has porthole windows to keep an eye on the neighborhood. What else does a happy cat need?And, yes, the box is extremely durable and its hard, smooth surface discourages scratching. The SnoozePal Hammock-in-a-Box is absolutely the cutest thing ever!

Product Description
Here is a cardboard box in which your cat will happily hang out for hours. The SnoozePal™ encloses a comfy hammock to snuggle in, gives your kitty an elevated spot off the ground, and has porthole windows to keep an eye on the neighborhood.


What else does a happy cat need?
· SnoozePal™ Hammock-in-a-Box provides a sheltered hideaway that cats love
· Fleece-lined hammock molds to your cat’s shape
· The hammock is removable and washable
· It carries up to 20 lbs. in weight
· The box is made of durable heavy-duty corrugated cardboard
· The box is strong enough to allow more than one cat to sit on top; in fact it held up with over 80 lbs. on top!
· The hard, smooth cardboard discourages scratching (cats like to scratch on something they can sink their claws into)
· Box dimensions 21.5L x 15W x 16.5H inches
· Ships flat. Easy to assemble The SnoozePal™ box is recyclable.

Click here to find out more!

Friday, April 17, 2009

Toilet train your cat

Do you like scooping litter? That's what I figured. I don't like it much either! It smells bad, it's messy, and it's unhygienic. For most cat owners, though, it's a fact of life. Wouldn't it be great if you could toss out the litter box and teach your cat to use the human toilet?

Well, it turns out you can, and it's not that difficult.

Click here to find out how!

Thursday, April 16, 2009

New Concept Doggie Dooley

Are you looking for an environmentally friendly way to handle dog waste? Look no further! This in-ground, environmentally friendly system is easy to install. Drop in dog waste, occasionally add digester powder and water and the unit works continuously. Harmless to lawns, pets and shrubs. Not obtrusive in your yard. Includes an 8 oz container of digester. Available in sizes from one to four dogs.

Click here for more information!

Wednesday, April 15, 2009

Pet of the Week

Kiki – Tampa, FL

Hi, I’m Kiki! I’m a beautiful tortoiseshell kitty who’s looking for comfort and joy. I’m a little shy when it comes to new places and I usually vocalize this so people know. With a little bit of time, I certainly tend to warm up. My favorite place to cuddle up is right on your lap! It’s a comfortable place for me because I feel the most protected when I’m with a human. If you’re looking for a sweet girl to be your lifetime companion, come visit me at the shelter! I’m a Meet Your Match Purple Secret Admirer. This means that “When it comes to relationships, I’m very level-headed. I don’t leap in paws first, if you know what I mean. But give me a little time, and then I’ll show you with purrs, head-butts, and plenty of lap time. In the meantime, you may not see a lot of me – but I’ll be thinking a lot of you.”

ID#: 967452
Sex: Female
Breed: Domestic Shorthair Mix
Age: 2 years 9 months


For more information please contact the Humane Society of Tampa Bay, 3607 N. Armenia Ave., Tampa FL, 33607, (813) 876-7138.
http://www.humanesocietytampa.org/



Pretender – Downers Grove, IL


Hi, my name is Pretender. I am a sweet and friendly guy that just needs to find his forever home. I am good with kids, cats and other dogs. Because of my age, I would benefit from crate training and obedience training. I am going to make an excellent pet for some lucky family. Could that family be yours?

Description: Hound Mix
Gender: Male
Age: 5 mos.
Size: Medium

If you'd like to meet me, please contact the West Suburban Humane Society, 1901 W. Ogden Ave, Downers Grove, IL, phone number 630-960-9600.
http://www.wshs-dg.org/wshs/



Stanley - Boca Raton, FL


Yo! I'm Stanley, a shy but happy pup ready to see the world, or at least YOUR house! I'm a 4 month-old Shepherd mix, 25 lbs., golden colored and already neutered. I'm here with my near-twin sister, Sassy, and we both need the home we've never had. We're a little scared in here, especially Sassy, so could you hurry and adopt us? We'll split up or come as a pair (double your fun!). We get along great with kids, cats, and other dogs and we're training to become housebroken. "Mutt" is the best breed....let us prove it to you!

I’ll wait right here at Tri County Humane Society, 21287 Boca Rio Road, Boca Raton. (561) 482-8110.
www.tricountyhumane.org.

Tuesday, April 14, 2009

Fantasy Fish Bowl Cat Toy

Want to watch your cat have hours of fun? The Fantasy Fish Bowl by Petstages® is the perfect toy for your curious kitty! The stable bowl has a ball inside that spins and scatters as she bats and chases. The unique design of the bowl keeps “fish” inside, keeping your cat’s attention focused. Features a non-skid bottom. Approximately 11 inches diameter.

Click here for more information.

Wednesday, April 8, 2009

Pet of the Week

Asher – Tampa, FL

Hi there everyone, I’m Asher! I may look a bit funny to you because I have no fur, but don’t be discouraged, it just makes me special! I’m a great, fun loving dog that likes just about everyone. Sometimes people call me a circus clown because of my funny antics. I came from a puppy mill which just means I didn’t have much time to be socialized. I can be a little scared when things get too noisy or there’s too much movement, so a home with small kids might not be the most comfortable environment for me. I really do get along well with almost everyone, and I like to show my affection by giving kisses. I’m great on a leash, and I love to play, so why don’t you give me a chance. Come visit me at the shelter, I promise you’ll fall in love!

Name: Asher
ID#: 7360303
Sex: Male
Breed: Chinese Crested/Long Haired Chihuahua
Age: 3 years 1 month


For more information please contact the Humane Society of Tampa Bay, 3607 N. Armenia Ave., Tampa FL, 33607, (813) 876-7138.
http://www.humanesocietytampa.org/




Brady - Downers Grove, IL

The first thing people notice about me is the color of my eyes. They are deep gold, which is rare for a cat. I came from a downstate shelter where not too many people go to adopt. I was sent here so I'd have a chance at a good life. I am very friendly and playful, so I hope I don't have to live in a cage for too long. Why don't you come by for a visit?


Description: Grey and White DSH
Gender: Male
Age: 2 yrs.
Declawed? No

If you'd like to meet me, please contact the West Suburban Humane Society, 1901 W. Ogden Ave, Downers Grove, IL, phone number 630-960-9600.
http://www.wshs-dg.org/wshs/

Monday, April 6, 2009

Sparrow-Resistant Bluebird House

Many people attempt to attract Bluebirds to their yard by hanging a birdhouse for them. So many times Sparrows end up moving in before the Bluebirds get a chance to find your new birdhouse. Doctors Foster and Smith feature a new bird house that is “Sparrow resistant.”

The bird house features;

Unique design welcomes bluebirds, discourages unwanted sparrow guests

Front panel latch opening enables easy observation and cleaning

1" eastern white pine construction optimizes insulation and strength

Approved by the North American Bluebird Society, this bluebird house is designed to deter sparrows. Some studies have shown that bluebirds prefer a slot entrance to the standard circular hole entrance and sparrows prefer the opposite. Also, sparrows tend to avoid shallow homes so the Sparrow-Resistant Bluebird House was constructed to be only 5" deep and includes a wooden insert to adjust the depth to a mere 3-1/2". Sparrows will avoid this depth, but bluebirds will still occupy the house. Front panel has latch opening for easy cleaning. Handcrafted from 1" eastern white pine for insulation and durability. House is rough-sawn to give fledglings a foothold when they are ready to climb out of the nest. Ventilation slits located at the top of the sides help prevent overheating and holes in the four bottom corners provide drainage. Floor is also recessed to keep inside dry. Mounting hardware not included (2/1-1/2" wood screws recommended). 5-3/4" x 8" x 10" high.

Click here for more information!

Friday, April 3, 2009

High-Rise Syndrome

Spring has sprung and with warmer weather comes open windows. Unfortunately, unscreened windows can be a threat to felines. Veterinarians have referred to cats falling out of windows as High-Rise Syndrome.

High-Rise Syndrome mostly relates to cats and the ASPCA lists a few facts regarding this phenomenon.
*Cats don’t deliberately jump from high places that are dangerous. Injuries relating to a fall from a high-rise, terrace or fire escape are accidental.
*Cats focus on what interests them. A distraction could cause them to lose their balance and fall.
*Window surfaces can be difficult for cats to cling to as they can be made of brick or concrete.
*Cats do not always land squarely on their feet which can lead to pelvis and head injuries.
*Cats can be injured just as greatly from short falls as shorter distances do not give them a chance to adjust their body posture.

Please help prevent High-Rise Syndrome by making sure that window screens are snuggly secured in window frames and note that cast can slip through childproof window guards.

Thursday, April 2, 2009

Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Month

April is the ASPCA’s Prevention of Cruelty to Animals month. Supporters are urged to “Go Orange for Animals” throughout the month of April to raise awareness for the cause.

The ASPCA web site advises ways to recognize cruelty. Animal behavior alone cannot be used as an indication alone. Kristen Collins who’s part of the ASPCA’s Animal Behavior Center states, “The best way to tell whether a pet is being or has been abused is to examine him and his surrounding environment.”

Some physical signs:
*Collar so tight it is embedded in the pet’s neck
*Open wounds left untreated or signs of multiple healed wounds
*Untreated skin conditions and patchy, bumpy, scaly skin
*Heavy discharge from eyes or nose
*Inability to walk or stand normally

Some environmental signs:
*Pets tied up outside without adequate food or water
*Pets kept outside without shelter in inclement weather conditions
*Surrounded by feces, garbage or objects that could harm them
*A cage that is too confining for the pet’s size

To read more about recognizing animal cruelty, please click here.

Wednesday, April 1, 2009

Pet of the Week

Texas – Downers Grove, IL

Howdy y’all, my name is Texas. I have had a pretty hard life and I’m about nine years old. I am a medium sized neutered Shepherd Mix I was owned by an elderly lady who passed away in May. Her family didn't want me so they brought me here to the West Suburban Humane Society. My owner loved me but because she was elderly she never took me for a walk, never took me to the vet or socialized me around other animals. I didn't even know how to walk on a leash. Although, I am house trained. The shelter decided that I needed some work so they sent me to Midwest Canine Behavioral and Socialization Center in Des Plaines for two weeks of training. While I was there I learned all of my basic obedience commands, "sit", "down", "heel", "stay", and "come". I got along ok with the other dogs in day care but I would prefer to be the only pet in the household. I don't trust new people immediately, it takes me awhile to warm up. Once I do though, I will be your best friend for life. I am looking for a quiet home that won't expect too much of me and will let me live out the rest of my life in a safe, comfortable environment. Could that home be yours?

If you'd like to meet me, please contact the West Suburban Humane Society, 1901 W. Ogden Ave, Downers Grove, IL, phone number 630-960-9600.
http://www.wshs-dg.org/wshs/


Baby – Tampa Bay, FL


Hello everyone, I’m Baby! I’m special girl with an amazing story, and I’m truly lucky to be alive. I was found a few months back at a construction site in the bay area. The workers there noticed that I was pregnant and fairly unhealthy, so they kept an eye on me to make sure I was okay. When I came closer to giving birth, one of workers took me home and cared of me until I had my pups. Everyone made it okay, and he quickly made arrangements to bring us into the HSTB. Shortly after, all my kids found wonderful homes, but the staff at the shelter took notice that I had Heartworm Disease. Right now I am heartworm positive, and I’m undergoing treatments so that I can be at my full potential when I’m done. I’m available through the foster to adopt program in the meantime. It’s very important that I maintain a low activity level, and that I’m living in a stress-free environment while I am undergoing treatment. That means short walks only, and no getting excited!! I know this is a hard situation for both myself and a potential adopter, but as soon as I’m done with my treatments I’ll be free to run, play, and wag my tail as much as possible. If you think you’ve got the right home please ask about me at the shelter. I promise you’ll be rewarded with tons of love and kisses in the end.

Name: Baby
ID#: 7176456
Sex: Female
Breed: Chow Chow/Australian Cattle Dog
Age: 3 years 7 months

For more information please contact the Humane Society of Tampa Bay, 3607 N. Armenia Ave., Tampa FL, 33607, (813) 876-7138.
http://www.humanesocietytampa.org/


April – Boca Raton, FL

What a purr-fect DMH three year old girl I am! I'm April, a pretty kitty you'll want to meet. I'm very friendly to people, but I don't really love living with so many other cats here. (Hissy fits are common!). I'd really appreciate my very own home and some consistent love and kindness. I love to lay in sunny spots, and I'm quite 'purr-y'. Ask for me in the cat room!

I’ll wait right here at Tri County Humane Society, 21287 Boca Rio Road, Boca Raton. (561) 482-8110.
www.tricountyhumane.org.