Church not purring about cat feeding

The emails are rolling in on this one.

BY DENISE FLAIM
denise.flaim@newsday.com

May 10, 2007

What would Jesus do?

That's the question being asked by Doreen Vollo, who for two years has fed a colony of feral cats in the woods behind Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Catholic Church in Centereach.

Earlier this month, she said, church officials told her she was trespassing and could not longer feed the cats. When she arrived the following morning, she said, a police car was idling in the church parking lot.

"These are God's creations, they are homeless, and I'm taking care of them," said Vollo, 51, an interior decorator who is Catholic but not a member of the parish. "I'm trying to do a good thing here. It's so sad."

The pastor, the Rev. Msgr. Joseph K. Curley, referred all questions to Sean Dolan, director of communications for the Diocese of Rockville Centre.

"We're not opposed to what she's doing, but it shouldn't be done on parish grounds," Dolan said, noting that the parish was concerned about liability issues, such as a cat scratching a child. "It has nothing to do with the parish not liking animals. It's not her call as to whether she can have or care for these animals on parish property."

Dolan suggested that the cats be adopted or relocated.

Vollo said the cats are feral and want little to do with humans they don't know, much less children. And she has found homes for those she was able to tame. One of them, Priscilla, lives with her. Another, Goldie, has taken up residence at Fair-Way Auto Sales, a car dealership whose lot borders the church and gave her permission to leave food out.

Vollo started feeding the colony three years ago, when the business owner next to Fair-Way asked her to help him tend to the 25 or so cats. She slowly took over their care, but when the man sold his business two years ago, the new owner was not receptive to her feline ministry. So she began feeding the cats every morning at the back of the church property.

Vollo says she has spent thousands of dollars trapping, spaying and neutering the cats. Today, the colony has dwindled to eight, though Vollo says three more need to be fixed, and a new litter of kittens has taken up residence in the bucket seats of a junked car on the Fair-Way lot.

Vollo recently purchased a statue of St. Francis, the great patron saint of animals whose philosophy is one she wishes the nearby parish would emulate.

"Sometimes I say I'm walking away from this, but how can I?" she asked. "They depend on me."

Copyright 2007 Newsday Inc.

Comments

[Abby Frank]

The Church doesn't appear to be charitable at all and isn't doing a thing to assist. Bless that woman. Why isn't anyone at the church offering to help relocate the remaining colony? Aside from that, the woman should reach out to any local cat rescue groups for help in relocating the colony..if possible. Renewed efforts should be made to spay/neuter the remaining cats. The kittens (who can be socialized) should be fostered and adopted. Shame on the Church.

[Kathleen Stephenson]

Abby - I so agree with you. I am going to send this story to a friend of mine in Memphis, TN that does animal rescue and also works with the catching, spaying/neutering of feral cats. Maybe she can get the right person in there to help this lady. I'm sure Tammy has contacts outside of Memphis. Pray ladies for these babies please.

[B.Darlene Walker]

The answer is not to walk away from the lady and the cats. Their job is to help people to get to a solution. People should register with another parish, those people are just too cold.

Unbelievable, the church is commercial with little care for human & feline life... How sad.

Thanks,

[Kathleen Stephenson]

Hey Darlene - I SO AGREE. I would not be going to this parish if they felt this way for sure.

What area of the country are you from Darlene? My grandparents who raised me were "Walkers." Thanks.

[Thompson]

For those of you who still want to be "PC" about China:

China wants to farm tigers and use body parts for medicine
GAVIN RABINOWITZ
IN NEW DELHI
CHINA is trying to persuade India - home to the largest population of wild tigers in the world - to back the idea of farming the big cats for their body parts, Indian officials said yesterday.

An attempt to amend a 14-year-old ban on trading in tiger parts is expected to be made by China at a convention on wildlife trade in the Netherlands next month, and officials from Beijing have held meetings with their Indian counterparts.

They maintain that farming the animals would be a better way of saving the species than trying to keep them alive in the wild.

But an Indian official who met the Chinese opposed a move that conservationists warned could devastate the rapidly dwindling wild tiger population.

Rajesh Gopal, the head of Project Tiger, a government programme charged with preserving the big cats in India, said: "The Chinese have said they think bans on wildlife trade have not helped any species."

China committed to the ban on trading in tiger parts under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora, or CITES, in 1993.

But now it reportedly wants the prohibition amended to allow the sale of parts from farmed tigers. Tiger pelts are highly valued in places such as Tibet and their bones and body parts are prized in traditional Chinese medicine.

Conservationists say the Chinese government is under pressure from the owners of tiger farms in the country, where there are an estimated 4,000 captive tigers.

Mr Gopal said the Chinese also felt that farms were the best way to preserve the species. "We disagree with that. We say the convention has definitely helped us to preserve the tiger species," he insisted.

Conservationists say that permitting farmed tiger parts to be sold would spur poaching because it is cheaper to kill a wild animal than to raise a tiger on a farm, and the parts would be indistinguishable.

India is already struggling to preserve its own tigers from constant poaching and habitat loss. In 2005, officials were forced to acknowledge that poaching had wiped out every tiger in one of India's reserves.

Officials from a number of governments estimate that there are 3,000 to 5,000 wild tigers left in the world.

A CAFFEINE SUBSTITUTE?
THE ground bones of a tiger are used as a stimulant in traditional Chinese medicine on the basis that tigers are vigourous animals with large amounts of energy.

Tiger penis soup is also traditionally regarded as a significant pick-me-up for men across much of east Asia, with white tiger's appendages thought to be particularly effective.

Tiger penises are also believed to have aphrodisiac properties.

Other animals thought to have special qualities include the endangered rhinoceros, whose horn is used to treat fever or as an aphrodisiac, and sharks, whose fins are said to nourish the blood, invigorate the kidneys and lungs, and improve digestion.

[kathy in colorado]

Our Far East countries need to get rid of their ancient myths and beliefs and get into the present. They are so advanced in certain areas of technology and such but so ancient in others.

[Kathleen Stephenson]

Is there no limit to what our world will do to destroy and mistreat God's creations? This makes me absolutely sick to my stomach to read.

Kathy, has the Governor signed the bill then and closed Cavel down? I sure hope so. How many horses did the FOB get to rescue if he did?

[Sedonia]

I refuse to buy anything from China and this is just one more reason to not promote this country and their inhumane treatment of animals and God's creatures.

[SueG]

This is disgusting, I will never buy another product from this country, of course it is getting
difficult to buy American th ese days. When I go
clothes shopping, I don't even know the names of some of these small countries that are producing
our clothes, and BTW they don't fit right !!!!
GRRRR

[kathy in colorado]

I have not heard if the gov signed or not yet ---- I was on a thread all day yesterday and half the night trying to save 4 horses off of a WA feedlot that is shipping at 8 PT this morning --- with 45 minutes to spare, the incredible group of FOB's saved all four. MeriLou has been over there with me and is incredible ---- Beth has been helping out too --- I can't believe the goodness in people's hearts. Yes --- we had our problems with trolls over there --- spent the best part of the day stirring up trouble and keeping us from raising money but late into the night and early morning hours overo $2000 was raised to save them. Now the sadness of the Preakness today ---- pray that no horses get injured.

[Kathleen Stephenson]

Thank you Kathy, Meri-Lou and Beth for helping these babies. Bless you and all the others that are always helping and praying for these babies.

MADISON UPDATE (Very good report - Madison is even trying to respond to Gina when she talks to her. Folks, this little girl WILL come out of this coma. She is a real fighter for sure!
-----------------------
May 19

Boy what a hectic time of the year! The school year is ending, baseball season is ending, etc. We have been realling running ragged! Summer vacation is coming though and will give me more time to rest and spend time with the kids as well as update more often.

Madison had a great week at therapy! She really seemed to be more intune with her surroundings. The OT tested her localization to sound to see where she was at. She got her in the perfect sitting position which takes a lot because you have to hold her body in that position. She put two fingers on her forehead to support it and then did a sound to the right side. She'd continue doing right and left for 8 times. The first time, she localized 3 out of the 8 times and the second time, she localized 4 out of the 8. That is wonderful! I know it doesn't sound like much, but 6 months ago, she was probably only localizing 2 times out of the 8. This is an improvement.

Madison would do such a good job at therapy, that they would completely work her out. She'd be so tired when I took her to school, but she was happy. She is smiling so much when she is happy and even trying to make little sounds occassionaly. She wants to talk. When I go over and start talking to her, she starts moving her mouth and tongue a lot. I know she wants to talk. She will one day!!!

Overall, it's been a positive week. In turn, since she's having a good week, I am having a good week. She makes me smile so much when she smiles!

Check her picture website later this afternoon because I'm posting more pictures! Also, there is still time to sign the online petition at http://www.gopetition.com/signatures.php?petid=12112. You can also still write a letter if you so feel led. Thank you all for all your support!

Love, Madison's Mommy
B+ for Madison!

http://www.princessmadison.org

[Debbie]

Good Morning everyone Dukes briefs have been submitted to Brooklyn as of yesterday, we hear the court system is backed up so it could take a while before they get to his paperwork, poor Duke may be stuck in jail thru the summer once again, here's to hoping he gets his date in court soon so he can go home.

Also prayers are needed for our Rosa here as she is not feeling well once again. Us girls have been out all weekened doing Vivi searching, now that the weather is nicer we can spend more time out there hoping to cross paths with her. We have not given up Vivi, we are still out there.

[Kay]

Thank you for the update Debbie. I sure hope Rosa feels better soon.

[Pam A.]

Appreciate the update Debbie. I also hope Rosa is feeling better soon.

[SueG]

Thanks for the update, and I will pray for Rosa
to get better. Still hoping for the good news
that Vivi is found

[Ko]

Did you see the comments this guy made about dog fighting!!!!? NORFOLK, Va.----Washington Redskins players Clinton Portis and Chris Samuels defended Michael Vick on Monday by ridiculing the notion that dog fighting is considered a crime.

In an interview with WAVY-TV, Portis said that if the Atlanta Falcons quarterback is charged and convicted of being involved in a dog fighting operation, then authorities would be "putting him behind bars for no reason."

"I don't know if he was fighting dogs or not," Portis said. "But it's his property; it's his dogs. If that's what he wants to do, do it."

Portis said dog fighting is a "prevalent" part of life.

Portis, a native of Laurel, Mississippi, added: "I know a lot of back roads that got a dog fight if you want to go see it. But they're not bothering those people because those people are not big names. I'm sure there's some police got some dogs that are fighting them, some judges got dogs and everything else."

"Politicians," added Samuels, who found it hard to keep from giggling while Portis was talking.

"Presidents," added Portis with a laugh.

Vick has been under investigation since April 25 when police conducting a drug investigation raided the house owned by the quarterback in rural Surry County and found dozens of dogs. They also found items associated with dog fighting, including a "pry bar" used to pry apart a dog's jaws. No charges have been filed.

Dog fighting is a felony in Virginia, but Portis said that if Vick is charged and convicted, "Then I think he got cheated. ... You're putting him behind bars for no reason -- over a dog fight."

"Haven't you seen Animal Planet?" Samuels added with a giggle.

Hours after making light of the possible crime in the television interview, Portis issued a statement late Monday through the Redskins.

"In the recent interview I gave concerning dog fighting, I want to make it clear I do not take part in dog fighting or condone dog fighting in any manner," the statement said.

[kathy in colorado]

YEP - GLAD WE TRADED HIM OUT OF DENVER LAST YEAR ---DON'T NEED HIS KIND ON OUR BRONCOS TEAM - SCUM IS WHAT HE IS

[Kathleen Stephenson]

Ladies, and these are the type of "idols" our children will admire if we do not take a stand. I think our next campaign should be to hit the Washington Redskins and NFL and let them know we will boycott any games as long as these people are playing.

And why has this man not been charged. If not, what good is this new bill passed and signed by the President offering stronger penalties against fighting animals.

We need a big media blitz and PRESSURE to charge this man. And we need it NOW!

[kathy in colorado]

Isn't Vick the same one that had the great dane that he starved - saying he left if with a caretaker?

[Susan Lorinsky]

This stuff is sickening. Yesterday on my homepage was a story of a 3 yr old cocker spaniel who was being starved to death by its owner. It is now safe but I was so upset I couldn't read the rest of the article. Did anyone see it? And humans are supposed to be civilized? I think it's the other way around.
Thanks Debbie, Darlene and the Weenie Crew for everything you are doing for Vivi, Duke and all the others. I know you will find her. The world is a better place because of all of you. My best wishes for Rosa to get better soon.

[Karen]

No, Michael Vick is the one who is QB for the Atlanta Falcons via Virginia Tech who has the fighting dogs in Virginia (you can imagine how this makes me proud) That was an NBA player in CA I think with the G Dane, Ron Artest. They should so be using their vast wealth to help innocents, not hurt them. I wish they'd get fired but they probably won't until they aren't making those teams money, sadly. Publicity won't hurt- and even though Vick is a star I talked to someone in Atlanta very connected to the pro sports there and he is in favor of his firing. So it could be heading there. His younger brother, Marcus Vick, was also a star player at Virginia Tech and he finally got thrown off the team and left the school after repeated run-ins with the law including robbery. Nice family.

[Kathleen Stephenson]

Don't feel bad about Virginia, Karen. The dog fighting is so bad in Mississippi (right by Memphis) that they do not even have any pit bull rescues I know of there. I know how you feel. I am so ashamed of the cruelty I see in the South and so near me also.

Hope these scums do get fired! Wish I could turn a few pitbulls loose on them!!!!!

[Susan Lorinsky]

Kathleen, I just saw a video about the 2-legged chihuahuas. Thank goodness they are in the right place with wonderful people to care for them. They are precious. It's such a shame that this happened to them. Breeders such as these should be held accountable for their actions. What people will do for money with no conscience.

[Kathleen Stephenson]

Susan - Don't worry. Those little fellas will have a great life and Eddie is going to help make their lives more complete too.

Eddie and some of the people I have talked to this week have really renewed my faith in mankind! There are some wonderful people out there just waiting to be discovered and appreciated. You and many others on here are some of those people! If anything wonderful came out of the tragedy of our Vivi, it was meeting people I had so many heart strings in common with.

[Susan Lorinsky]

Eddie sounds like a remarkable person and to help animals in this unique way. Kathleen, I know those little guys are in great hands and will be in a loving home. I am very glad that I have met all of you who are just as crazy about animals as I.

[Debbie]

Hey Susan those 3 little chi's are here at North Shore Animal League and we might be seeing them tonight because Monica has 7 rescued pups being transported to the shelter from Georgia today. The pups came from a kill shelter down south and North Shore has agreed to take them so they should all be here this afternoon. Cameras are ready to take photos and we should be able to see the Chi's also. We can't wait to see them all.

[kathy in colorado]

CROSSPOSTING: PLEASE START CALLING THE GOV AGAIN...looks like he may re-nig...

Folks, whatever we have been told, I just got off the phone (very politely) with Kendra and Brittany, two assistants to the erstwhile governor of Illinois. They have stated that he has not signed the bill and has asked them to turn in a tally for and against at the end of the day. Whatever else we have heard, THIS is what I was told by the Springfield office. We had better get our votes in. I asked if he had veto power on this bill, since it has so convincingly passed the legislature, and they did not know, but had been told to keep a tally. So back to the phones I guess. I for one am tired of run arounds and all that jazz! -Karen J (WI) Okay to cross post to other lists

[kathy in colorado]

Contact the Governor

Office of the Governor
207 State House
Springfield, IL 62706
Phone: 217-782-0244 or 312-814-2121
TTY: 888-261-3336
Governor's Online Contact Form -
http://www.illinois.gov/gov/contactthegovernor.cfm
Gov's website - http://www.illinois.gov/gov/

[Meri-Lou Mahoney]

Everyone, please call one of these numbers

217-782-0244

312-814-2121

and advise the person answering that you are for HB1711

[Susan Lorinsky]

Meri-Lou, I just called the first number and got through right away. Everyone, please call so they're overwhelmed by calls and this bill goes through quickly.
Debbie, wish I could be with you gals to see all these pups. I can't wait to see pictures.

[Kay]

I just called and got right through, but the young man who answered sounded like he was tired. Maybe a lot of calls have hime tired out.

[Mila]

ITS TRUE!!! THIS IS FROM THE GOVERNORS WEBSITE:

05/24/07 - Gov. Blagojevich signs legislation banning the slaughter of horses in Illinois for human consumption
SPRINGFIELD – Governor Rod R. Blagojevich today signed legislation that bans the slaughter of horses in Illinois for human consumption. House Bill 1711, sponsored by State Representative Robert S. Molaro (D-Chicago) and State Senator John Cullerton (D-Chicago), bans importing or exporting horsemeat if any horsemeat will be used for human consumption.

[Kathleen Stephenson]

Oh Mila, YESSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSS!

I am so happy to hear this. Thanks for posting lady. You made my night. Kathy told me about the situation at Cavel this morning and losing those precious babies when the FOB's had raised the money to buy them. Oh I wish I could get my hands on that man who would do this! What an evil person. But I have faith that my "Daddy God" (to use the phase that Betty used and I loved) will take good care of him and many others some day in the future! His vengence would not be something I would like to face for sure.

[Kathleen Stephenson]

PAM AND KATHY - Sorry, I thought I had told everyone. Onnie is back with Tink and I. Ryan was staying so busy with his Boy Scouts and other things, that they decided Onnie might be happier with Tink and I.

She is a sweetie, but a ball of energy. Wears me down a bit. And yes Pam, Tink is a little "snot." She is quite a mess I am finding out.

Last night I brought home three chicken strips from Perkins. They were rolled in a napkin and left from our appetizer. I sat them on the desk, and then turned around to give them to the girls. Well, forgot Onnie could reach the desktop. She had ALL THREE in her mouth going to town. Maybe that was her payback to Tink for the night before.

Of course, Onnie destroyed Tink's special snuggly bed the first night back. So I don't blame Tink for being put out with her a bit....

[rooooby]

I'm feeling sorry for Stinkerbell, uh Tinkerbell..little stinker has to keep on top of things or she won't be the big boss, mommies favorite..Poor little thing..

My Satchel is a very laid back dog and whatever Lilly does to him or takes from him, he's fine with it. His motto has always been, "Oh well, mom loves me best"..heh heh

[Kathleen Stephenson]

Believe me Roooby, no one will ever replace Tinkerbell. She has my heart in her little paws! No one could ever love a little dog more than I love her for sure.

I have another wonderful bed on order for her already!

[rooooby]

I know the feeling of your love for Tinkerbell, KathleenSsssss...I feel that way about my boy. He's my sunshine...Right now he's unhappy, I have his wicked cousin and he can't be in the computer room with me like he always is...Bic the JRT will be home with her mom tomorrow sometime. I love her, but she's a stinker and can't be trusted with the Whippersssss...

I hope Onnie does rip up Tinkers new bed...Badddddd girl Onnie...(not really)

THANKS EVERYONE FOR MOVING HERE....I CAN GET INTO THE BLOG EASILY...TAaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa for now..xoxo

[Pukie Baby]

Oh the old blog had its moments. Vivi added so much to it - sweet little girl dog that she is. Where ever you are sweetie - you're missed greatly.

[kathy in colorado]

Can I ask everyone to please say a prayer and maybe light a candle for the sweet little filly that had the transmission fluid and lime poured over her --- she went down and they are trying to get her back up - that is crucial that she get back up - they are doing every thing possible but things look pretty bleak ---- can you please list her in the evening prayers ----- this little girl has never know love and kindness until yesterday. I hope our dear Lord lets us show her the love she was intended to have when He created her.

http://www.gratefulness.org/candles/candles.cfm?l=eng&gi=amazi

[Audrey]

Just want to say thanks to everyone who contributed to Gus's recovery.He is one puppy that stole my heart.
I am also asking for some non-monetary help.Awhile ago I found out that great woman named Sara Whalen passed away. She was a neighbor of mine when I lived upstate and ran an animal sanctuary called Pets Alive. She took in the most extreme cases of neglect and abuse.Needless to say I am heartbroken over her passing.She hid her illness from her small staff and her sanctuary fell into disrepair.
You can read about Sara here:

http://www.recordonline.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070320/NEWS/703200320&emailAFriend=1

Enter Best Friends:

http://network.bestfriends.org/petsalive/news/postdetail.aspx?gu=petsalive&np=14169

This great organization came in to help and they are in need of many things for the 300 dogs,100+ cats,rescued carriage horses from NYC streets,etc. Their wish list is endless.

I am asking please if any of you can clean out your closets and pack up a box and send it to them.Gently used items such as blankets,throws,linens,pillows that you don't use would be greatly appreciated by all of the babies living there.Here is the link for the Wish List in case anyone may want to order some things to send also.Thanks so much for any help you can give.

http://network.bestfriends.org/petsalive/news/15407.html

[SueG]

Audrey, I have been following the Pets Alive story
since Sara became ill. These animals were living in
horrendous conditions, and many have fear issues
and health problems because of this. Sara tried her
best but she was very ill, and she also became some what of a hoarder. They found over 300 applications
that were never answered. Best Friends is doing
a fabulous job at the sanctuary now. I plan on going over to volunteer with some of the very shy
dogs once my son is out of school. Thanks for bringing this to everyone's attention.

Hope everyone is well, I don't blog much anymore
but still holding out hope for our little illusive
Whippet girl. Vivi come home !!!

[kathy in coloado]

First of all, I wanted to share something with all of you. Last week there was a fund raising to save 27 mares and their foals from the Beltax feedlot. In addition, there were other pregnant mares rescued. A total of over $21,000 was raised in this effort and homes were waiting for these mares and foals. The lady that pulled this all together was to pick them up today. Yesterday she got word that Beltax had sold them to someone else. Beltax is known for not dealing with a rescue organization. Either they found out that we were a rescue or they knew it from the start and just ran us in circles to see if we could raise the funds. The fact is, we did raise the funds and are now heartbroken that those mares and foals will not be coming to us. Hopefully the people that Beltax sold to are good people who will give them a good home, which is what we wanted also.

In reviewing what has happened, it has dawned on me that we really need to focus on getting the bills in Washington passed. These feedlot operations will continue until we close down the transportation. We have the three s/h closed in the US but there are those in Canada and Mexico and I know in Colorado - our local kill buyer just bought brand new trucks for hauling. Luckily, I have not seen him on the highway yet. With that said, I will post the call in strategy shortly. Thanks for letting me ramble.

[kathy in colorado]

Here is today's call in strategy as posted on the TWR site.

Let us begin by saying that you have all come through another turbulent week like champs. Our concern was that our strength would be diminished if we continued to go in different directions. We asked you to unite and stay on the same page. Once again, the FOB’s have risen to the occasion. A HOUSE DIVIDED CANNOT STAND. However, you have once again proven that we are a HOUSE UNITED. Our passion has seen us through and has made us stronger.

In the past six months, we have picked up a lot of momentum. We have even witnessed the closing of all three slaughter plants in our country. BUT THE FIGHT IS FAR FROM OVER!! We MUST stop the TRANSPORTATION and make sure another slaughter plant never opens on our soil again. The only way to get this done is to get the federal legislation passed.

We have been in contact with DC and expect the strategy to change next week. However, we are ending this week by continuing to call the Senators that co-sponsored last year but have not done so yet this year. As well as Senators Obama and Durbin.

We are posting the entire list today in the hopes that many of you will call those that you may have missed. Also, if there is someone that you did call and feel like they could use another little push, GO FOR IT!!

SEN. DANIEL AKAKA [HI] Phone: (202) 224-6361 Fax: (202) 224-2126 Aide: Darcie Tokioka

SEN. EVAN BAYH [IN] Phone: (202) 224-5623 Fax: (202) 228-1377 Aide: Katie

SEN. JOSEPH BIDEN [DE] Phone: (202) 224-5042 Fax: (202) 224-0139 Aide: Shawn

SEN. HILLARY CLINTON [NY] Phone: (202) 224-4451 Fax: (202) 228-0282 Aide: Laura

SEN. JIM DEMINT [SC] Phone: (202) 224-6121 Fax: (202) 228-5143 Aide: Stacy Dillard

SEN. MEL MARTINEZ [FL] Phone: (202) 224-3041 Fax: (202) 228-5171

SEN. PATTY MURRAY [WA] Phone: (202) 224-2621 Fax: (202) 224-0238 Aide: Jamie Shimek

SEN. BILL NELSON Phone: (202) 224-5274 Fax: (202) 228-2183 Aide: Colin Mueller

SEN. CHARLES SCHUMER [NY] Phone: (202) 224-6542 Fax: (202) 228-3027 Aide: Sara Birmingham

BARACK OBAMA (IL) 202-224-2854 phone 202-228-4260 fax Aide: Elizabeth Olson

RICHARD DURBIN (IL) 202-224-2152 phone 202-228-0400 fax Aide: Erin Collinson

Remember, WE ARE BARBARO’S VOICE. Thanks for all your hard work and have a great weekend.

Shelley and Debra

[kathy in colorado]

Talking Points

1. Let your Senators know that now that all the slaughter houses are closed in this country, it is URGENT that we get this legislation passed to stop the transport of horses to Canada and Mexico.

2. Let them know that their support isn't enough but we NEED the co-sponsors to get this to the floor for a vote. You can let them know you are aware there is a hold on the bill and they are the only ones that can help us move forward.
[edit]
What needs to happen if we end Horse slaughter

Support horse rescue; sponsored euthanasia programs ? etc.

One of the reasons that the Anti Slaughter legislation is having trouble being passed is because our opponents insist that we do not have the facilities to care for these horses. A better understanding of these animals needs and a willingness to act on their behalf has changed that.

There are now many more organizations that are willing to undertake this action but they need your help to thrive. Many, like the R.A.C.E.Fund, have put aside money for humane euthanasia when necessary.

Please visit the links below and learn more about these organizations and the wonderful work they do. Only with the help of people like you can we avoid the sad fate that awaits thousands of our horses every year. We owe it to these beautiful creatures that have brought so much joy into the lives of so many.

[darlene osullivan]

Audrey - already got a ton of sheets Colette and i have some doggie blankets i will send as well. i will also ask the weenie crew for their help. we all have stuff we can send to make that place a little better. such a shame a nice lady like that had to go.....

[darlene osullivan]

thanks for all who have sent money to St. Francis - i truly love you!!!!!! i did see it on the Barbaro thread. AND GET GUS??? are you guys nuts?? that'll be lucky 7 for them - unlucky 7 for me. oh, how i wish!!!!! i also do believe Jose has been invited to a BBQ tomorrow for a birthday party!!! it's gonna be a hot time in the town tomorrow. he has a lovely emsemble he will be wearing as well. now, if Rooooby would give back Bobo, he could come along as well. Obviously, Bobo is being used for something in Calif. that i think is not proper to discuss publicly. i heard it involves hot oils..... Rooooby????

[Meri-Lou Mahoney]

This is a very sad day for society as it is. The judge in IL just granted Cavel their temporary restraining order. We need to put a stop to this once and for all. Please make as many calls as you can

[Audrey]

Thanks Sue and Darlene and the weenies. Sara had a great place back when I lived up there from '92 to '02. I had no idea how bad things got at Pets Alive until I was searching for a cat to adopt and decided to look on her site.I remember reading in the paper about 10 years ago how she almost lost her farm for failure to pay her real estate taxes. An anonymous lawyer stepped up and paid them for her.I guess rescuing can become overwhelming at times.Thank God for Best Friends. If I still lived up there, I'd be volunteering every waking moment. My care package is going in the mail today.
I will also be asking my not-so-great Sen.Clinton why she sponsered the anti slaughter bill last year but dropped the ball this year.And she expects me to vote for her? NOT!

[kathy in colorado]

WELL GIRLS ----- Cavel has been granted a stay and is open for operations ----- God be with our horses. Please make calls.

[kathy in colorado]

Sorry Meri-Lou - you are way ahead of me --- trying to save some more horses off the feedlot --- the money just isn't getting raised for some reason - lots of people depressed over the Beltax issue I think......Pro Slaughter has big money and are fighting us.........don't know if we can win - not with judges undoing everything that gets done. What good does the governor signing the bill do

[Meri-Lou Mahoney]

Kathy, read your emails. I just sent you one

[Pukie Baby]

Kathy,

I cried reading about the hurt filly. Yes, prayers will be sent.

[darlene osullivan]

son of a ......
why - why is that place still open???? what the hell is going on? how can it be that they pass a bill and then can override it? this is total BS!!!!
my prayers are with all of those poor babies... i could cry right now - after i kick the S___ out of those political windbags who do NOTHING but lie.
Audrey - sent you an email - tons of stuff coming to me from the weenie crew for that rescue. they will be fluffy and soft soon, my darling!!!!

[Kathleen Stephenson]

Kathy - This is SUCH SAD NEWS! I feel just like Darlene expressed above.

Kathy, do WE have the attorneys to go back into the Courts and fight to end the restraining order. Maybe we should raise funds and obtain counsel to represent the FOB and other anti-slaughter people in the Courts.

I feel without attorneys, we have a no-win situation!

[Susan Lorinsky]

Audrey, my daughter and I found out about Pets Alive when Animal Planet ran the Trail Mix special about famous people and horses. It ran last year. I think it was a member from the band Aerosmith and his wife who at that time were big supporters and volunteers of Pets Alive. The show filmed them there and they were talking about the wonderful work done rescuing animals among them the carriage horses giving them a good home for their retirement years. I'm sure he must know what has happened there. Do you know if he and his wife are helping now? Does Best Friends know about them? I would think they could get more help from their music pals and others in the business. LeeAnn Rhimes was also on this special and Mary Chapin Carpenter. We will be sending what we can.
I can't believe Cavel got the restraining order. What a travesty.

[Margot]

Vivi's candles are very low.

[rooooby]

I just lit 5 candles for Vivi..I've never seen her candles lower..Get going people, light a candle for our girl!

[Kathleen Stephenson]

Yes Missy Roooby ...

Going there now.

[Kathleen Stephenson]

I know this may seem like a strange post, but I need some help ladies.

My Electrolux vacuum (purchased about 12-14 years ago) is about to die I believe. I need to purchase a new vacuum, but have been having a hard time deciding on which type I will purchase. Any strong recommendations from any of you folks with many animals and lots of pet hair around? Thanks.

[Pam in MN]

The purple colored Dyson - called The Animal. They run about $500 or so but boy does it pick up dirt and animal hair. I was blown away to see what came out of my carpet.

[Kathleen Stephenson]

Thanks Pam. That was one of the ones I was wondering about.

[kathy in colorado]

Yes there are attorneys on the anti-slaughter side but unfortunately cavel and the belgium owners don't know when to quit and just leave it alone - my fear is they will go to another state and open another plant and it will all start again --- we have to get the bills passed in washington once and for all

[Susan Lorinsky]

Kathleen, I bought the purple Dyson a few months ago and just love it. It picks up the dog hair easily, the suction on it is amazing and the attachments are so easy to use and change. It definitely was worth the extra money. I had tried everything else from Kirby to Electrolux to Orek and others and the Dyson is the best. I bought mine when Linens and Things ran a sale on the purple one and a girl there gave me a personal testimonial on why it's the best vacuum to buy and which model is the better one. Make sure to get the newer one where the wand extends out of the hose and you don't have to pull it out and reattach it.

[Michael Patrick]

Posted by Betty - Blessed be the Lord, the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob. 'HOLY IS HE!"

Psalm 61:1-4
Hear my cry Oh God, attend unto my prayer. From the end of the earth will I cry to you; when my heart is overwhelmed; lead me to the Rock that is higher than I. For you have been a shelter to me, and a strong tower from the enemy. I will abide in your tabernacle forever; I will trust in the covert of your wings.

Good morning Daddy God. We ask you Daddy God, to strengthen us and make us stronger than the enemy who tries to divert our efforts to be your hands and feet. We will not be moved. Daddy God, shut down the horse slaughterers. Shut them down with your Mighty Fist of righteousness. Blow them away as dust in the wind and end their terror of death and cruelty. We thank you for stopping the terrorist attack at JFK. We thank you for the protection you have given us under the shelter of your wings and the blood of your Son Jesus. Daddy God, raise up your little filly as you show her your love in the rescue you have provided for her tender and gentle heart. Raise her up Holy Daddy. Heal her. Fill her with your love and presence. Welcome Sarah Whaley into your kingdom. We all do the best that we can. There are so few of us who are willing to help your creatures of love and gentleness. Daddy God, please increase the laborers. We know you search to and fro to see who will hearken to your voice of love to help your babies in need. Daddy God, so few have to take on so many. Please, please bless those who listen to you and take your little ones in. Provide for them and bless them in your shelter and love and provision and strength, as we work so hard to fulfill your will on this earth. Bring our beloved Vivi into the shelter of your rescue. We patiently wait for your Mighty Hand to move and bring her home to safety and love. Bless her Daddy and continue your wonderful care over her. Help Vivi to hear your voice as you gently speak to her and lead her home and bring her out of the streets. Bring her out to your Mighty Army Daddy God and bring little Bowdee home to his mommy. We are not moved. We have faith and we will stand until all things have come to pass and see the desires of our hearts brought forth in YOUR GLORY OF RESCUE AND DELIVERANCE. Thank you Daddy God!! You are our Mighty and Strong Tower of shelter and defense. Bring all goodness and mercy to pass for your children and your creatures. In Jesus's Name. We praise you!!!
Luke 15:4
What man of you having a hundred sheep, if he lose one of them, does not leave the ninety and nine in the wilderness; and go after that which is lost until he find it?
Daddy God, continue to speak to and lead all we have brought to your throne to the safety and love of home with their families. Help us to find them Daddy God. Vivi, Biggie, Sniffles, Rags, Faithful, Little Aussie, Mommy, Daddy and Baby Girl pup, Apple Riley, Holly, (bring her out of the desert to safety) , Precious Hosanna, Buddy, Annie, African Grey, Patterson, pointer, Jack Russel, Grey Tabby, Bowdee, Yorkie, Shimi, the cemetary strays Buttons , Black Afghan Hound, Lola, Vern, Zoey, Saffie, Axel, Brewster, Hopey, Max, Missy, Calbert, and Seven. Bring them home to their families filled with love, joy and warmth.
Isaiah 53:4-5
Surely He has borne our griefs and carried our sorrows; yet we did esteem Him stricken, smitten of God, and afflicted. But He was wounded for our transgressions, He was bruised for our iniquities; the chastisement of our peace was upon Him, and with His stripes, we are healed.
Holy Jesus, continue to touch our little ones with your precious healing power, CJ, Dante, Felice, Max, Little McGee, Murphy, Mylie, Barbaro, Gunner, Linus, Kiva, Ellie,(restore all that had to be taken), Morgan, Little Andi, Nicki, Dude, Brandy, Tucker, Lexie, Isabella,Twin Kittens, Bowen, Heather, Doogie, Clarus, Prince, Star, Skeeter, Scout, Tigger , Ezmeralda, New Foundland, Tank , Billy, Lilly, Auggie, Sparky, Meeko, Barney. Joey, Skittles, Zoey, Diva, Merlin, Magic, Briar, Fluffy, Cubby, Awmee, injured bird, Trevor, little Rachael who has stomach upsets like little McGee used to have before you touched him, Piper, Winnie, Mercy ,Rocket Spit McGee, Scrappy, Jethro, Emma, Chelsea, Iggy, Contessa, Tara, Hope, Mac, David, Tinkerbell., and little Filly. All Glory goes to you Daddy. Continue your miraculous healing grace in our brothers and sisters, Madison, Gina, Baby Girl, JL, Lance, Pam, Chris, Pat, Jacque, Darlene, Kim, BJ, Rose, Mary Ann, Kathleen, Abby, Renee, Renee's uncle and cousin, Lois, Gail T. Button's owner, Joyce, Gail's mom, Julie, Sabina, Kathy, Amanda, Ann, Pam, Chrissy Sharon's dear friend, Jill, little Rachael, Irene, Sharon's mom, Cindy, Tara, Tommy, Rosa, and Gayle. Continue to protect beloved Israel and America as they battle terrorism to keep us free. Shelter them and give them victory. Protect the innocent and lead them to safety and provision. We pray for the peace of Jerusalem. Bring justice for Otis, Otto, and Boxer Puppy. Bring Freedom and deliverance for Duke. Give them righteous Judges who will honor your creatures Daddy God and bring Duke home to his mommy where he is meant to be. Help us to raise all the funds that are needed, for you are our provider. Help those who are looking for employment to find the place you want their light to shine. Increase and bless them Daddy. Fill our lives with your glory as we work and watch for your Son Jesus, our Savior. Flood this earth with your glory and power for all to see. Bring Vivi home Daddy God. Let this be the day Daddy God....Let this be the day INDEED...In Jesus's Name we pray....Amen

IN GOD ALL THINGS ARE POSSIBLE...FEAR NOT, ONLY BELIEVE....JESUS CHRIST.

[Michael Patrick]

Ladies, please pray for Michael. One of our little rescues, Nutmeg had to go to the vet. She was totally wild and it took a year just to get her to let me touch her. We have had her at home now for five years. She needed to go to the vet because she has a growth on the inside of her right hind leg. Michael was putting her in the carrier and she got frightened and turned and bit him Her teeth went straight through his thumb. He is in the hospital now, with blood poisoning. He is getting IV anti biotics and his hand is very swollen and infected. Little Nutmeg did wonderful at the vet. She had blood work and every thing done and cuddled and cooed the whole time. I think Michael was just moving too fast, because he didn't want to be late for the appointment and it frightened her. She is going to have surgery on the 12th to remove the lump and she needs prayer too. The vet does not think it is cancer, but we need to make sure. She is happy and eating well, but Michael is in pain and getting a fever. Please pray for him and little Nutmeg. Prayer is powerful and will pull us throught this. Thank you everyone. I love you. betty

[Michael Patrick]

Check your toothpaste. Homeland Security said toothpaste from china has anti freeze in it. It has been found in the United States. Do we make ANYTHING in America?

[rooooby]

I also have a Dyson, but I'm not thrilled with it. Mine is about 3 years old. The suction is great, but using the attachments for me is a pain......I also find my model is very heavy so I don't use it upstairs. It could be that the newer models don't weigh as much.

I bought a reconditioned Dyson, no problem with it at all, it keeps going and going. I seem to remember the purple Dysons were called THE ANIMAL...I love the fact that it has no messy/espensive bags, you just dump whatever in the trash can.
What about a robot vac?

[rooooby]

http://www.itchmo.com/read/fda-says-avoid-toothpaste-from-china-one-us-bound-shipment-found_20070601

[Kathleen Stephenson]

Thanks everyone, I think I may go ahead and buy the Dyson today. Got to do something soon. Roooby, they have that Roomba - but let me tell you I tired it. Did not work for me. Packed it up and returned it pretty quickly. I have the berber type carpet which is probably harder to vacuum somewhat though.

Betty, my heart and prayers are with Michael and Nutmeg. I can imagine the pain and swelling with Michael. Years ago my grandmother was bite by a little garden snake while doing work in her azaleas. By that night, off to the ER. She was also in the blood poisoning thing and the extreme swelling. She ended up there for about a week with IV antibiotics also. Please let Michael know he and Nutmeg are in our prayers. Let us know how they are doing please.

One last note, all of us love our animals are give so much to help them, but please do not neglect yourself. I did a very stupid thing. I have had 5 spots on my body for a while that I ignored, knowing fully well skin cancer runs in my family. On Thursday I FINALLY had an appointment. The dermatology group I go to has the facilities for exam, minor surgery, and pathology in their facilities - Memphis Dermatology. The doctor ended up removing all 5 spots, and two were malignancies. After doing the surgery and going back in twice, Dr. Amonette finally got clean tissue and feels all is okay. One spot had been there for about a year, and this was a basal cell carcinoma. He said I was very lucky this was not larger than it was. So please take care of yourselves and take YOURSELF to the doctor, just as we take our sweet fur babies!

[rooooby]

VIVI HAS 264 CANDLES LIT..Way to go people! Please keep lighting them and praying for her safety..Don't forget the others.......Amazi, the little horse who had chemical burns, B+ for Madison, Lucy a special Rottie buddy of the weenie crew, Harley, CUBB/cubby..

[Kathleen Stephenson]

ROOOBY - Don't forget sweet Duke boy too . . .

[Kay]

Yes, Kathleen. We must take care of ourselves. If we are sick our fur babies don't get 100% from us. I am so glad you got good news.

[rooooby]

Speedy recovery to Michael..I'm sorry his goodness got him hurt Betty. Tell him I'm praying for him.

KathleenSssss, it depends on what type Berber you have. I've had both the loop and uncut or whatever they call it. I didn't like the loop, the cats kept catching their toe nails in it. Now i have the regular cut, but its too light a color.....I can't seem to win. You might go online and check to see what Consumers Report has to say on vac's Kathleen, I think I heard either a Hoover or one of the other name brands is better than the Dyson......Wind Tunnel???

[SueG]

Hi Betty, Lots of prayers heading Michaels way.
I got attacked once from a cat, and actually got
Cat Scratch Fever. Tell him to take all his meds,
do not stop just because he feels better.

[Susan Lorinsky]

I had a Dirt Devil and a Kenmore vacuum before the Dyson. Both were a waste. So was the Kirby, Electrolux, Hoover and Oreck. Always getting a part repaired and suction petering out. I like the Dyson bagless and that empties cleaner than the others. We are tough on appliances. Maytag? Don't bother. We had the washer and dryer and saw the Maytag repairman many times. He had no time to fix copy machines. Consumers' Report isn't always the best source to go by.

[rooooby]

SueG,
I was helping a neighbor rescue a cat from her roof. She handed him to me, I was putting him on the ground and she told me to put him on the fence so he could go home...Not a good idea! The cat sort of PUSHED OFF on my right arm, under part......I ended up in ER and had 14 stitches taken......The cat wasn't being mean, just wanted to get away from me.........He ripped me to shreds...

[Kathleen Stephenson]

ROOOBY - I am hurting just thinking about what that felt like. OMG, such pain. When cats dig in with those claws it is painful!

Sue G - The doctor at St. Jude who used to be our principal investigator for our ACTG grant, Dr. Walter Hughes, is a famous infectious disease specialist. He used to fuss at me about my cats, and tell me I was going to end up with cat scratch fever rescuing strays (sure worked for the right person if I did). My grandfather had it when he was a very small child and was quite ill. Never stopped him later though - he loved all our cats!

[kathy in colorado]

Prayers please for 36 sweet horses on their way to Cavel today ---- we were unable to raise enough money to save them and the truck came. Rumor is that Cavel is paying top dollar for horses and is trying to push as many through as possible. They are planning on closing on June 12th and move their operations to Canada - until then they will be processing our horses a full speed - double time. Please make calls to our senators and representatives tomorrow asking them to co-sponsor the anti-slaughter bills and if they are a co-sponsor - thank them for doing so. We have got to get these bills passed in washington

[kathy in colorado]

The man that sent the 36 to Cavel today has made it possible for the remaining 41 to be purchased for $300 a piece and we have until Wednesday night or he will call the slaughter truck. So far enough has been raised to save 15 which leaves 26 more to save. If you would like to help save a horse, any amount is welcome. You can paypal any amount to: breakheartranch@gtmc.net (which is tax deductible).

[kathy in colorado]

You can light a candle for those on their way to Cavel at: http://www.gratefulness.org/candles/candles.cfm?l=eng&gi=kansa

[Susan Lorinsky]

Hi Everyone,
I just phoned the Senator's and Congresspeople that were listed on Tom Wooley's site today to ask them to sign the bill banning horse slaughter. Please everyone take a few minutes and phone or fax them. The people answering knew what I was calling about so they must be getting the calls and they were very nice. We have to stop this barbarism. After being at another horse show all day Saturday, one can see the love people have for these majestic animals. They are our national treasure.

[kathy in colorado]

Thanks Susan - yes - it is fast and easy to do. For who to call, please go to: http://www.timwoolleyracing.com/wiki/index.php/Horse_slaughter#Current_Strategy it is all outlined there for you.

Even though the plants are closed or will be closing on June 12th, they can still transport them to Mexico and Canada - Cavel will close on 6/12 and resume bigger operations in Canada. Don't let them take our horses - we have to pass the bills that outlaws transportation of our horses for slaughter.

Help keep a beating heart........beating. Call today and tomorrow and the next day and the next and the next.....

[kathy in colorado]

Good morning everyone --- money has been raised for 22 of the 46 horses in Kansas that will be going to slaughter on Thursday morning. Each horse cost $300. Additional funds of $800 is needed to get the coggins testing for the 46 which is needed for the horses to be transported out of state. All of these horses have been pasture fed for the last couple of months and are beautiful and healthy. $300 is not much for a horse. Can Team Vivi perhaps pool enough to save at least one horse. Check out this little guy that was saved:
http://forums.delphiforums.com/timwoolley/messages/?msg=10222.477

[rooooby]

I've noticed a few strange posts on another Vivi blog, an older one. I think it would be wise NOT to click on the links, they could contain a virus. The signatures are :boy spanking, gay spanking and spankzilla". They could be porno sites, but big chances are they contain viruses...Danger, danger..

[Kay]

Believe me, they are porno,

[Kathleen Stephenson]

I e-mailed Denise Flaim today to let her know they are there. Felt she would definitely want to remove those.

Kay, I agree with Roooby. I would run a virus scan if you clicked on these. Some people just have a warped sense of humor for sure.

Kay, wish I could have seen your face when they opened. Bet that was a shock.

[Pam in MN]

Kathleen, did you solve your vacuum dilema?

[Kay]

Beet red face. Closed as fast as possible. I did run a virus check though and found nothing. Won't be that stupid again. At least not soon.

[rooooby]

please crosspost:

MISSING RIDGEBACK (orginally posted RR-folk)--

Lucy got out the gate in Dupage Country, Illinois. She is 6 years old and a very nice dog. Red, full ridge with crowns.
If you hear of anyone who has found an older female, please think of Lucy. She belongs to a family with children that miss her dearly. She is microchipped with an AVID chip and we very much want to rejoin her with her family.
Karen Peugh
815/336-2345

[rooooby]

I got a virus one time when I was in a dog chat. People would come in and post porno sites and I accidently clicked on one of the links and got in to a porno site and couldn't get out..I finally turned my computer off..I learned the hard way to be careful..there are all sorts of tricks out there!

THE ABOVE POST ABOUT THE RIDGEBACK WAS SENT TO ME BY BONNIE..PLEASE FEEL FREE TO CROSS POST IT!

[Kathleen Stephenson]

Pam - Still debating. I am holding on with my old Electrolux. When it dies I will have to make a decision for sure.

[rooooby]

KathleenSssss, check the Hoover, bagless..I hear its better..........but I could be wronggggggg...

[rooooby]

one last comment about the porno guys...how in the world did they get to post when we have so much trouble posting..their names alone should have told the spam robot there was something wrong..
GaySpank and Spankzilla and some other stupid name.

[kathy in colorado]

Please follow this link to today's call in strategy: http://www.timwoolleyracing.com/wiki/index.php/Horse_slaughter#Current_Strategy

An update: Yesterday I posted that the FOB's are trying to save 46 horses in Kansas and have until Thursday to purchase these horses at $300 each. While rounding them up, they found a 3 week old foal with its mama - also, another foal was born a few days ago - so two babies (no charge). The owner is very cooperative and all have been rounded up except 8 which are being led astray by a wild and wiley little Arab who is bound and determined not to be caught! She's heard of the ugly truck. Anyway --- all but 10 have had funds raised and it looks like all the funds for the coggins have been raised. If you would like to contribute to help save the remaining 10 horses, you can paypal your contribution - in any amount - $5, $10, whatever you can afford to: careenc@msn.com

Thanks for anything you can donate, but more importantly is that we have to get the bills passed. Remember Cavel is open and killing our horses - they are working doubletime to process as many as they can before they get closed again. Please take a few moments to call or fax. Thank you Team Vivi and Vivi supporters --- Vivi and Barbaro --- you can't get much better than that!

[Susan Lorinsky]

I just received the Thank You mailed by Honi from Bo, ,Paul, Jill and Rick with the picture of Vivi. How beautiful she is and I don't need a Thank you for doing what I want to do to reunite Vivi with her family. I believe that she will be found and brought home to Montana to be with Jill and Rick. I can't wait for that celebration. It will come.

[Jill]

Received this email today:

Hey all,
Here is a web page: http://www.shadyoakrabbitry.com/dog.html that was created for the small pit bull whose puppies were shot and killed in front of her. She is currently located in eastern Alabama, near the Georgia border. We are trying to raise funds for her to get to Newnan, GA where she can be vetted and boarded until we can find a rescue to take her. Getting her out is imperative as the local dog fighters are trying to capture her b/c they think she looks, "gamey".

Jayne

[Meri-Lou Mahoney]

Jill, isn't there someone who can at least for right now, get her off the side of the road and to safety? I just sent an email for the vets address to send donations for her help

[Jill]

I have no idea - I'm in Delaware. Just got that email from Save Georgia Dogs, and wanted to post it in case someone on here was from the area, had any ideas, or could help.

[kathy in colorado]

she is beautiful --- I just know she has the death of her puppies lodged in her mind --- those poor soulful eyes of hers, I hope they can get her vetted and safe.

[Meri-Lou Mahoney]

This just in about the petfood recall. Sorry it is so long

Tuesday, June 5, 2007
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration is investigating a Texas laboratory's finding of acetaminophen in dog and cat food, an agency spokesman said Monday.
"We're very interested in being able to test these samples ourselves to determine the levels of those contaminants," said FDA spokesman Doug Arbesfeld. "What's significant is these things are there. They don't belong there."
The pain medication is the fifth contaminant found in pet foods during the past 2 1/2 months and can be toxic or lethal to pets, especially cats. It is not known if any animals became sick with acetaminophen poisoning, or died from it.
"We were looking for cyanuric acid and melamine, and the acetaminophen just popped up," Donna Coneley, lab operations manager for ExperTox Inc. in Deer Park, Texas, told the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review yesterday. "It definitely was a surprise to find that in several samples."
At least five dog and cat food samples submitted by worried pet owners and pet food manufacturers contained varying levels of the pain reliever, she said. Only the food, not individual ingredients, were tested.
The medication was found most often with cyanuric acid, a chemical used in pool chlorination, Coneley said. Varying levels of melamine, a chemical used to make plastics, also were found among the hundreds of samples ExperTox tested, she said.
The contaminants were found in foods that are not among the more than 150 brands recalled since March 16, Coneley said. The highest level of acetaminophen was found in a dog food sample submitted by a manufacturer, she said. Coneley declined to identify the company but said its officials were given the results "well over a month ago."
That company should have -- but did not -- notify the FDA, which first learned of the acetaminophen findings after pet owners posted lab reports on the Internet, Arbesfeld said.
"With any poison, it's the amount that matters." said Dr. Wilson Rumbeiha, a Michigan State University pathologist who is working with the FDA on the pet food contamination investigation. His lab has screened for acetaminophen but found none, he said.
The highest level of acetaminophen found by the Texas lab -- 2 milligrams per gram of dog food -- is a large amount, Rumbeiha said. That is eight times what a 10-pound cat could safely consume, he said.
However, a 20-pound dog would have to eat more than 6.5 pounds of food in 24 hours to be poisoned, unless it ate the same contaminated food daily, Rumbeiha said.
A still-unmeasured amount of acetaminophen and cyanuric acid were found in cat food submitted by Don Earl, 52, of Port Townsend, Wash., whose 6-year-old cat, Chuckles, died in January.
He said he was suspicious of two flavors of Chuckles' Pet Pride food because his other two cats refused to eat it and because Chuckles, strictly an indoor girl, had been healthy.

[Cherita]

I also just received the letters from Jill, Rick, Paul and Bo with the beautiful picture of VIVI - No real thanks needed and we are STILL KEEPING THE FAITH IN TEXAS. She will be found.

[rooooby]

Why is the Pit mom on the side of the road, still?
It sounded to me like they have her and need funds to help her????

I too got the thanks from Vivi's folks by way of Honi. Very sweet. It made me cry.

[Pam A.]

I was also in tears yesterday when I got my package...very sweet...such a beautiful dog...

[Meri-Lou Mahoney]

Rooooby,
This is the converrsation I had yesterday about the pit mom and have heard nothing since. Very strange

I can send you $100.00, possibly more, if that will
help. Again, is there anyone who can get her off the streets, so to speak?
--- pitbulllover1103@aol.com wrote:
We are trying to find out if we have enough for the
vet. How much will you send??? And thank you so
much.
-----Original Message-----
> From: ms m
> To: Pitbulllover1103@aol.com
> Sent: Tue, 5 Jun 2007 3:33 pm
> Subject: Pitpull Puppy
Please send me the vets address and I will send what
I can. Isn't there someone who can get her off the
side of the road for right now?
Meri-Lou Mahoney

[Darlene O'Sullivan]

ok- what's going on?? a baby Pit in trouble?????

[Meri-Lou Mahoney]

Darlene, this is the link with her story. http://www.shadyoakrabbitry.com/dog.html
I have tried to contact these people, but don't seem to be getting any where. Maybe you can or someone else

[Darlene O'Sullivan]

you bet i will, Meri-Lou. you know this hits me hard about Pits. on my way to attack now. thanks - i appreciate you letting me know.

[monica]

meri-lou i emailed them and am just awaiting a response. what they need to do is GET HER OFF THE STREET IMMEDIATELY!! especially since there are "undesireables" looking to get her. i don't understand why the woman feeding her doesn't just temporarily take her or why they just don't board her until money is raised to get her vetted. boarding doesn't cost that much per day usually...
i'll let you know when i get an answer...

[Darlene O'Sullivan]

i tried the email addy. and it has expired?? now, i am really upset. do you guys think this is real or some sort of game? i was stupid enough to look at her and now i am crying at my desk. i don't know what to do now. i have to figure out something.
she's beautiful :)

[Darlene O'Sullivan]

copied and pasted the assy and sent out a big time urgent message to this person. i told her that i would help any way i could and i wanted this woman to take her until we can get Pit rescue to her. what the hell is wrong with people???

[Darlene O'Sullivan]

MONICA GOT THE WOMAN ABOUT THE RED PIT********
HERE IS THE RESPONSE BELOW. I CHECKED THE PHONE NUMBER AND IT'S DOGWOOD VETERINARY IN GA.

Hopefully she is being brought to the vet right now. The vets number is 770-253-3416 and tell them it is for the red pit mom. Let me know how much you are calling in so I can keep track. I need to find boarding for her after she gets vetted too. Do you know any rescues that can take her in???

[Darlene O'Sullivan]

MONICA GOT THE WOMAN ABOUT THE RED PIT********
HERE IS THE RESPONSE BELOW. I CHECKED THE PHONE NUMBER AND IT'S DOGWOOD VETERINARY IN GA.

Hopefully she is being brought to the vet right now. The vets number is 770-253-3416 and tell them it is for the red pit mom. Let me know how much you are calling in so I can keep track. I need to find boarding for her after she gets vetted too. Do you know any rescues that can take her in???

[monica]

darlene i got through to the email and got an answer. maybe you misspelled the email address? there are 3 L's which i didn't notice at first...

[Rosa]

Hey girls, ABOUT the Pitbull, I wonder also if this is a HOAX to try and get money. I looked at the picture and she looks so friendly there is even a shot of someones hand petting her....SO WHAT would the problem be in taking her? or getting her to a shelter? she is close enough to get a leash on with no problem, and looks very calm.
Rosa

[Rosa]

NEVER MIND< I didn't look before posting. I see you guy's got an answer.
Thanks Rosa

[Pam A.]

Darlene, Meri-Lou or Monica: If you find out that this pitbull story is legitimate, let us know. I could send a donation to help out this poor dog.

[Meri-Lou Mahoney]

Darlene, is this the email address you used Pitbulllover1103@aol.com? I just sent her another email asking about mom

[Darlene O'Sullivan]

ok - Meri-Lou, i cc'd you on 2 mails from her and also one i sent directly to the vet. hoping to get something back that verifies this is indeed true. Jill from Paws for Life is also helping us with her knowlesge and experience - thank God.
now - how do we find someone in GA. to help take her? Monica went through hell with her Motley Crew pups from GA. this isn't easy but once we get her to the vet and boarded, maybe things will go quickly and smoothly. any ideas - anyone who can help out there?????

[Meri-Lou Mahoney]

This is the response I got back. It is much the same.

Still working on it, did I give you the number to call for the vets office. The woman is supposed to be bringing her in there today and then I need to find boarding until rescue comes through. The vets number is 770-253-3416, and can you let me know how much you call in so I can keep track.

[Darlene O'Sullivan]

Rosa and Pam - that's what we're doing. i sent an email directly to the vet for verification. this one kills me. i will certainly let you all know what's going on. i will cc you on the emails if you would like as well :)
ROSA - HOW ARE YOU??? LONG TIME!!! Pam - not picking on Debbie today - we're after Lois. HA.

[Meri-Lou Mahoney]

I sent her back a reply asking that she contact me once she knows that mommy is at the vets office. I also advised her that there were people out here who wanted to help.

[Darlene O'Sullivan]

MARTY: YOU LURKING ANYWHERE????? I NEED YOU MY GEORGIA PEACH!!!!!!
maybe you can help with this baby???

[Rosa]

Darlene, Doing good thanks. I just put a call out to my friend Vicki who works rescue, I am waiting to hear back if she has any connections with Pitbull rescues in that area. Will post what I hear as soon as I hear.
Rosa

[Darlene O'Sullivan]

me too, Meri-Lou. i told her there were girls from all over the U.S. waiting to help ONCE THIS IS FOUND TRUE. thanks for letting me know about this, as much as it breaks my heart. i don't want her slipping through the cracks.

[Darlene O'Sullivan]

Rosa - thanks so much!!! Jill is full up and can't take anymore. they have local shelters begging to give them more dogs locally. we are all smart and i am sure we can find somewhere in or around GA to take that sweet faced girl. right, girls???

[Meri-Lou Mahoney]

Just heard back

Thank you, my daughter works at the kennel there so she will keep an eye on her. Please let them know we will probably need help in boarding until we get a rescue to come forward.

[Pam A.]

I'll admit I was not a big fan of pitbulls but my prejudice has been worn down since I've found this blog. This dog is just beautiful...Lois, you have my sympathy if Darlene is picking on you.:)

[Darlene O'Sullivan]

well,i hope so. still awaiting their reply directly. i would call from here but i can't to verify.
hey, Pam - i am not the evil one - it's Debbie (well, and me, Monica, Jill, Roooby, Marnie....)

[monica]

#1 - i will call the vet after lunch to see if the story is true...
#2 - i've contacted the woman from save georgia dogs where this originated from. (i dealt with her with my motley crew pups.) she will be able to give me all the details and confirm the truth of it...

[Meri-Lou Mahoney]

YEAH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! SORRY FOR YELLING

The woman who called me just called again, she had trouble finding her this morning she was hiding, probably from those guys. But she is enroute right now to the vet, should be there by 1:30 pm Eastern time.

[Pam A.]

Fantastic news, Meri-Lou!!!

[Pam A.]

Fantastic news, Meri-Lou!!!

[monica]

THANK GOD SHE IS OFF THE STREET!!!!!!!! i will call after 1:30...

UPDATE - email from Jayne who is coordinating this:

Hey,
Our girl is enroute to the vet as we speak. Here is an e-mail I composed to help alleviate fears about the legitimacy of this story, complete with vet and boarding info, feel free to pass it on.

Jayne
I am hoping to alleviate some of the fear that this story is a hoax. I totally understand everyone's skepticism regarding this situation. Please understand that Michelle, the woman who was originally contacted about this girl, is a VERY trust-worthy person and also on the board of directors of a rescue with me. She and I are known as pit-bull people and we are contacted daily from literally across the country with people who found a pit bull wandering, saw a pit bull in their local pound that they want to save, saw a pit-bull run across a highway. This is a DAILY occurence for us and we like to help when we can.

That being said, this situation seems like one we could help with since the dog was actually geographically close to Michelle in Atlanta. We undertook this without a safety net though, we're scrambling to find a boarding place that can take her. Our main goal has been to get this dog OUT of Alabama as quickly as possible. I know it seems odd that someone would feed a dog, but not get it to safety, but this is a regular occurence. Many people will feed the strays (there are MANY in that area) but not take them in. Always remember, we in the rescue world are the exception and not the rule when it comes to our commitment to animals.

I'm sorry that some people have not been receiving e-mail replies promptly. I am trying to get back to people as quickly as possible, however I am at work (as is Michelle, who is a para-legal) and get an e-mail about this every minute or two. Michelle's address has not expired, as I have been e-mailing her all day, so there may have been an issue with the correct e-mail address.

The vet clinic where she is going is:
Dogwood Veterinary Clinic
Dr. Pamela Johnson, DVM
24 Hospital Road
Newnan, GA 30263
770-253-3416

As of thi