PLEASE HELP SHIRE Boycott

Please help Shire by boycotting McCains products

Please crosspost widely.

In brief:

The deWeerd family moved from Ontario to the village of Florenceville, NB with their elderly Rottweiler named Shire. Shire is a therapy dog. The deWeerds did everything right before moving; they asked the Florenceville village clerk if the village had breed specific legislation and she said no. The deWeerds purchased and received a dog license for Shire; the application specified Shire's breed. Contrary to the village clerk's statements, Florenceville does have breed specific legislation. However, the village council doesn't impose its breed specific legislation on the two Rottweilers living there that belong to "old families". The Florenceville village council has issued a warrant for Shire's death, and Shire has been moved into hiding to save her life.

The village mayor and council refuse to answer or even acknowledge any correspondence on the matter of Shire.

Shire is upset and lonely without her owners. She is elderly, and this relocation is stressing her greatly. Shire has done nothing to deserve a death sentence. If the deWeerds had been correctly advised by the village clerk, they would not have moved to Florenceville.

McCains Foods, the primary employer in Florenceville and the employer of one of Shire's owners, was asked to approach council to discuss the matter, and has refused. You and I know that the primary employer in a one-horse town has significant power. McCains' refusal to approach council on behalf of responsible owners and their unoffending dog, and Florenceville's refusal to lift its unfounded and unjust death sentence on Shire, precipitated by the village clerk's gross errors in stating there was no breed specific legislation and then issuing a dog license for Shire, leave me with the only course of action which I have already started.

I ask you to join me in a boycott of McCains and subsidiary products, and I ask that you write McCains to advise them that you are boycotting their products until Shire's unfounded and unjust death sentence is lifted and she is allowed to live out her days with her owners in Florenceville.

Please boycott all McCains, Maple Leaf, Dempsters, Oliveri, Hygrade (in Quebec), Burns, Shopsys, Tenderflake, Nutriwhip, California Goldminer Sourdough, Maison Cousin, Canada Bread, Olafson’s, POM and Ben’s products, and write a note to McCains on their contact page -

McCain Retail - Contact Us
http://www.mccain.com/mc_contact_form.htm
to let them know you will not purchase any of these products until Shire's death sentence is lifted.

Boycotting frozen french fries, pizza, desserts and beverages...changing from supermarket meats to local butcher meats....changing your brand of bread....these are not big steps for an individual to take. But if we all take these steps, we can use our consumer power to let a global conglomerate know our disappointment with their lack of response, and let a village council know our disapproval of its action in imposing an unfounded and unjust death sentence on a dog that has done no wrong.

Two remarkable video's of hero bullies

Okay, I told myself, enough is enough! You've told the world out there about Tom and Sam, so shut up about it already. But...then I saw this and it choked me up and I bit back tears. Who was I to deny someone else what I felt, this same feeling?

So without a whole lot of anything else, you just got to watch this video from CTV.

In CNN.com comes the incredible story of a Pit bull that foils a kidnapping of a 9 year old son. Check out, Dad: Pit bull foils kidnapping

Daring Duel Recovering

I'm so glad to see this article growing from paper to paper. It's funny how they are mostly referring to Sam by his proper breed, American Staffordshire Terrier and not using the word Pit bull. Do they hope people won't notice the difference? I'm glad the daring duel are both recovering.

Canoeist and dog recovering from bear attack
Last Updated: Tuesday, July 25, 2006 6:14 PM ET
CBC News

Tom Tilley details his attack of the bear on Ontario morning. (Runs: 8:39) play: real »

Since Tom Tilley and his dog Sam saved each other after a black bear attacked them, offers to help the duo have not stopped.

Late last week, the 55-year-old from Waterloo, Ont., battled with a 90-kilogram bear by jumping on its back, straddling it, and stabbing its neck with a knife after the bear attacked his dog.

Tom Tilley and his dog escaped the clutches of a vicious black bear while portaging near Wawa, Ont.(Canadian Press) Since he returned from the canoe trip, Tilley's phone has been ringing off the hook with calls from the media and from well-wishers.

Some of them have even called for Sam to be nominated for a canine hero award, while others offered to help pay for the dog's medical treatment, according to the Canadian Press.

Dog saved by own chubbiness

Both were bitten in the attack — which took place at Lake Abbey, near Wawa, Ont. — and are now recovering from their minor injuries at their home in Waterloo.

Tilley ended up with several stitches to his hand. The dog also suffered a few more wounds.
Sam 'thankfully had a little bit of a layer of fat on him.'-Tom Tilley, canoeist

Sam was wounded when the bear clamped its jaws across the dog's back, causing a few slashes, puncture wounds and a bit of ripped-off skin.

But he could have suffered more serious internal wounds if it hadn't been for his chubbiness, his owner says.
American Staffordshire terriers are usually a lean type of dog, but Sam "thankfully had a little bit of a layer of fat on him," said Tilley.

"The fat saved him from more serious damage," he said.

2005 bear attack inspired Tilley

In an interview with CBC Radio's Ontario Morning, Tilley explained how he did everything he thought was right when faced with a bear attack: making his frame as big as he could, making lots of noise, backing up slowly.
But in the end, it was his knife that likely saved the two.

"As soon as I saw the bear I unsheathed my knife right away just in case."

His canoe trip in northern Ontario was the first time he had carried the hunting knife.

The avid outdoorsman doesn't normally carry a large knife on his canoe trips, but bought a 15-centimetre hunting knife after hearing the story of Jacqueline Perry.

The 30-year-old woman was killed by a black bear that attacked her and her husband at a campsite in Missinaibi Lake Provincial Park in northern Ontario in 2005.

"Her husband told [me] the story of how he had tried to fend off the bear with a Swiss Army knife," said Tilley.
"So, I just felt at that time that in the extraordinarily rare case that I'd run into a predatory bear that I wanted to have something more substantial than a Swiss Army knife," he added.

Bears rarely attack humans, but there have been several attacks and killings in recent years.

Shire in Hiding. PLEASE CROSSPOST

*****Please crosspost*****

SHIRE IN HIDING

UPDATE:
The deWeerd family has been infirmed that their lawyer has not filed and cannot file until the end of this year, for an injunction to save her life.

Shire has since been moved out of this horrid community, Florenceville, New Brunswick, Canada with the kind help of a concerned dog owner in NB.

If she is found within the town limits,she will be killed.
Email villflor@nbnet.nb.ca

The deWeerd family moved from Ontario into Florenceville New Brunswick.

Hired by McCain foods, this family prior to making the final decision to move contacted the Florenceville town hall to ensure they had no BSL. Their real estate agent was also informed, NO BSL.

John deWeerd registered Shire as a Rottweiler and was issued a licence for the year 2006. Two days after moving into their home, an ACO officer notified them that Shire was to moved or killed.

It did not matter to this town, that Shire was a co worker with her mom and had been working as a pet therapy companion with special needs children for many years.

It did not matter that Shire has never stepped one foot out of line in her entire life.

She is a rottie and therefore she must die.

Despite direct contact by various organizations to include the DLCC and the CKC, the town of Florenceville has refused to allow Shire to permanently live in their community.

The Mayor has refused to step in and be compassionate to this family, to Shire.

The town's major employer, McCain Foods John deWeerd's employer has refused to assist this family.
107 Main St
Florenceville NB, E7L 1B2
Phone: 506-392-5541
Fax: 506-392-8156
Toll Free: 877-462-5676
website: www.mccain.com

The love of their dog has cost untold stress emotionally and financially. Three lawyers later, the death sentence remains, the house is not sold, the real estate agency is not accepting any responsibility neither is the town of Florenceville.

Shire has borne the brunt of the stress. She has been fostered in kennels and in friends homes since all of this started.

She does not understand the depth of the hatred this community holds for her and her owners simply because she was born with politically incorrect genes.

All Shire knows is that she is not with her family where she belongs.

They have set up a PayPal account to help them financially. This battle has cost thousands of dollars with no end in sight. sheepyjane@hotmail.com

If you cannot help financially, then please sign the below petition addressed to the town of Florenceville NB.

It is important for this town to know we as responsible dog owners will never support in any way, municipalities that kill our dogs for no reason other than breed biased hatred. http://www.thepetitionsite.com/takeaction/891894426?ltl=1146964801

Finally, the deWeerd family needs letters from dog owners across this continent sent to them in support of saving Shire. These letters will be used in her defence. Please forward these letters of support for the deWeerd family at sheepyjane@gmail.com

Hero pitbull recovering from bear attack

Maybe Tom can't wait for this story to die down, but personally, I hope it NEVER dies. It's news like this we need more of and I'm surprised the media is gobbling it up. WAHOO!

They're even calling Sam a HERO! Well Sam, you did a job well done and it's an honour to post whatever I can about Tom and Sam on my blog. Get well soon Sam and Tom.

Here's the story in the The Toronto Star.

Hero pitbull recovering from bear attack
Jul. 25, 2006. 08:37 AM
TORSTAR NEWS SERVICE


WATERLOO - Since the swell of national attention highlighted the heroism of Tom Tilley and his dog Sam, offers have flooded in to pay for the dog's medical treatment.
Some callers want to nominate Sam for a canine hero award.

Tilley, 55, killed an attacking black bear by jumping on its back and stabbing the aggressive animal with a hunting knife.
His dog had alerted him and distracted the 90-kilogram bear.

Tilley, of Waterloo, was portaging with Sam through the area near Wawa, Ont., when the bear stepped in their path and attacked. Sam is an American Staffordshire terrier, often grouped under the heading ``pitbulls."

Sam was wounded when the bear clamped down on his back, tearing away skin and leaving several puncture wounds.

Since the incident last Thursday, Tilley and Sam have been inundated with media requests from across the country, as well as with calls and e-mails from well-wishers.

"Personally, I'll be glad when it dies down," the soft-spoken Tilley said Monday.

Sam is recovering well.

"We went to the vet today. We were hoping to get some of the tubes out from the surgery, but they're staying in for a little while longer."

Tilley himself was also injured in the attack and needed several stitches to his hand. He, too, is on the mend, he said.

Man Kills Attacking Bear

In the Wawa New is this article with picture of Tom and Sam. Check out the orange button Tom is wearing. It's the 'My Ontario Includes Pit Bulls' that is purchased to support the legal fund.

Thankfully for the both of them that Sam wasn't muzzled at the time or both of them would have been dead and bear food.

Man Kills Attacking Bear


Tom Tilley from the Kitchener/Waterloo area is a very lucky man today, and so is his dog, Sam after a bear attacked the pair yesterday, Thursday, July 20th.

While on a portage to Abby Lake, Tom turned and looked behind him to see a black bear dogging their footsteps. Brandishing a saw and making noises, Tom attempted to scare off the bear. The bear then stepped off the trail and disappeared into the bush. A few minutes later it appeared in front of the pair, this time advancing closer and closer. When the bear attacked Sam, Tom retaliated, and in the ensuing struggle, killed the bear. Both were injured, and Tom being unable to carry the canoe, dragged it the length of the portage, loading Sam and went for help. Seeing another boat, Tom was able to get help from several campers in a cottage on Abby Lake. These men had a satellite phone, and used it to contact Kelly at Hawk Air. Fortunately Kelly was only ten miles away at another remote lodge, and came to ferry Tom and Sam to Hawk Junction. From there, Kelly drove them to the Lady Dunn Health Center to have his wounds treated.

Fortunately Tom only had a few gashes to his hand, and thumb; whereas Sam, his dog had a couple of punctures and slashes to his back. After being ferried back to Missanabie to pick up his van, Tom headed south for further medical attention for both Sam and himself.

When talking about his ordeal, Tom remembered that last year a bear had attacked and killed 30-year-old Jacqueline Perry. Her husband Mark Jordan used a Swiss Army knife to stab the bear a few times during the attack. That incident prompted him to look into various protection methods: bear spray, bear bangers, finally deciding on carrying a hunting knife. That appeared to have been the right decision, as Tom used it to stab the bear a number of times before it died.

Tom was unsure if there was any reason for the bear's behaviour, and never even looked to see if it was a male or female. His only concern at the time was his dog's injuries and his own.

Man kills bear with dog's help

In the Toronto Sun comes this wonderful article of just how loyal the bullie breeds are. They would put themselves in danger rather than allowing their master from harm. This shows their loyalty, courage and love and in return receive love back to them.

Sat, July 22, 2006
Man kills bear with dog's help
By CP

KITCHENER -- A Waterloo man and his dog made a harrowing escape from the clutches of a vicious black bear while portaging near Wawa.

Tom Tilley, 55, killed the nearly 200-pound bear by jumping on its back and stabbing the aggressive animal with a six-inch hunting knife after his dog alerted him and distracted the bear.

"Love is a very powerful emotion and my thought right away was: 'You're not going to kill my dog,'" Tilley said yesterday.

" I really consider my dog a hero. Without that first warning I would have had the bear clamping down on my neck."

An avid outdoorsman, Tilley had planned on spending 12 days portaging through the area near Wawa with his American Staffordshire, Sam.

Four days into the trip, he heard his dog growl and saw the bear closing in on him.

"That's when I knew I had a serious problem ... I was lunch," he said.

That is until Sam placed himself between the bear and his owner.

"The bear took a few steps down the trail and clamped its mouth on the back of my dog," Tilley said.

"By attracting the bear's attention like that and distracting the bear from me it gave me the quick opportunity I needed to run around to the back of the bear, get on its back and with my knife start stabbing it."

Take muzzle off pit bull law

Firstly, this article shows the ignorance of the bully breeds and irresponsible owners are doing nothing to reassure the public that they don't pose a threat. Since the law has been passed, it is for us to change legally and responsibly rather than trying to make a bad situation worse.

The sad truth of this editorial is, I abide by the law to the fullest, mainly for Shasta's sake and as a law abiding citizen. At the same time upholding an oath as a member of the DLCC, AFTU and also a member of the LDOA to set a good example. I find myself somewhat of a loner in my area of London as I watch and talk to other bullie owners around me.

While I try to explain the risks they are putting on their dogs as well as seeking responsible ownership, I'm often left feeling like my words are falling on deaf ears. The logic that I hear makes no more sense than some in the article below.

A good example was last night as Shasta and I walked to the pharmacy to pick up my prescription medication. While waiting the 20 minutes for them to be processed, I asked for one of those buzzer alert gadgets that notifies you when your prescription is filled and headed back outside the store to wait with Shasta.

Naturally, with Shasta muzzled, she attracts attention and it's usually in the positive. A car pulled up and the guy inside asked if she was a Texas Red Nose. I never received any papers and didn't get her first hand, as many who has followed my blog or been to my web site would know, and can't say for sure if she is a purebred or not. I've had several people tell me she was, but without papers I can't and won't say she is. Besides, to me it doesn't matter and I had her spayed at 6 months, long before the Ontario pit bull ban was even talked about. I was never interested in bringing more pups into this world and there are such a need for forever homes for animals in the Humane Society's already. Why contribute to a problem.

He was telling me he was exempt to having his bullies fixed as he had their purebred registration papers. I tried to explain that this was purely for dog shows and not for breeding purposes. That puppies in the province were doomed the moment of birth as they were illegal in Ontario, plus the selling of pups.

He laughed at me and told me he had been fined three times by Animal Care and Control already and no matter if they fined him $200 or $500 each time, it was only pocket change to him. For all I know, the guy could have been a braggard as he didn't have any dogs with him, nor did I know if what he was saying was true.

What bothered me even more, was he told me he was willing to give me $10, 000 to breed Shasta with one of his males. Other than her being fixed, it showed me how unreliable some of these so called breeders are. Shasta has no papers to prove her line, if in fact she has one. How then could he prove he was keeping the breed clean by looks alone.

His girlfriend, possibly wife was out of the car by Shasta stressing she was definately a purebred. Well sorry, to me she is my life, my love and my companion and purebred or not didn't mean beans to me. I felt uncomfortable enough that he was even having this discussion with me as I could only view him as someone who was contributing to the problem rather than helping it. I was NOT impressed!

If, in fact he really did have this kind of money, why not put it towards helping out the legal fund and be part of the solution? But then, why would he even want to when he was already bragging how above the law he was.

While there are many of us following the law, there are so many that aren't. It feels so unfair. Their dogs aren't lacking in the socialization skills. He, like many others have told me they take their dogs to the leash free parks and let them socialize with the other dogs. He said the other dog owners say it's okay and don't mind. I know this to be true as they have tried to encourage me to let Shasta off her leash at least, if not her muzzle, but I decline. My mind tells me I am doing what is right, but I also see what lack of socialization is doing to Shasta.

Prior, we went to so any different types of dog events and Shasta was always well behaved and mannerly. Now she pulls when she see's other dogs wanting so badly to associate with them. Her body language shows excitement and I feel badly that I have to deny her this need, so much so, that I quit taking her to the Leash Free Park. But, that hasn't stopped her need for companionship when we come across another dog on our walks.

She does understand when she is working and pulling the wagon as my Service Dog that socializing isn't allowed, but her pulling on my arm when simply walking doesn't help the pain and nerve damage in my arms when not. It's so frustrating and I think of how it must feel to her. I curse the Liberal government every time this happens as Michael Bryant and his Liberal party are to blame for this delemia, but it's my choice to follow it as it IS law and I refuse to put her life on the line as unfair as it is. Responsibility doesn't always come without a price and Shasta is paying for it dearly, but it's better than risking hers for it.

I thought when all this first took place, that bullie owners would unite, but instead I see they are just as divided as the government and us are. If we do win against the law being unconstitutional, what will this teach all the bullie owners reaping from all the hard working dedication and sacrifices we have made to make this possible? Many in the Coalition don't even own bullie breeds, yet even they are putting on fund raisers in many forms to gather for the legal funds. They continually volunteer time, planning and effort in so many ways imaginable dedicated to the cause, yet talking to people that appose the law and refuse to abide are hurting us in a bigger way then they can even imagine.

While this law is unfair, unconstitutional and vague, it is after all still the law. That's why we are fighting it, but in the proper and legal channels. We show the public we are responsible and in most cases, we earn their respect. We don't make the headlines. yet our dog's breed still suffers. Many of the public, as in this article, see the irresponsibility of the bullie breeds that aren't abising to the laws. This hurts us, our dogs and all that we are fighting for.

Would I be just as responsible if I owned another breed of dog? The answer is simple, yes I would! That can be seen by the two cats I have in my fur family.

My writing today shows the frustrations that many of us feel as we fight for what we believe. I suppose it's more of a vent but this article from The Sudbury Star reminded me of the sacrifices we are making and why.

Saturday, July 22, 2006 - © 2006 The Sudbury Star
Take muzzle off pit bull law
Thursday, July 20, 2006 - 11:00 Editorial

It is unfortunate that the City of Greater Sudbury is choosing not to give the pit bull law some teeth. The result of this policy could be tragic.

Some residents have complained that pit bull owners are ignoring the provincial law - passed last summer - that requires their dogs to be muzzled in public.

The law bans people from selling, breeding, or importing pit bulls. Current owners are grandfathered, which means they are allowed to keep their dogs, but the animals must be muzzled and on a leash in public places.

The issue is not whether the law is needed - it is - or even whether it's a good law; the issue is that the province has identified pit bulls as a public hazard and has enacted a law to govern them.

The city's refusal to proactively enforce the law is disturbing, given the potential consequences.

Municipalities are responsible for enforcing the province's law, and the province is willing to leave it at that.

Cities often act on certain laws only when complaints are lodged. To constantly enforce every statue or bylaw everywhere would require an army of city-paid enforcement officers prowling the streets day and night. No one wants that.

However, pit bulls aren't like unsightly tall grass on the front lawn, or fences that are too high.

Documented reports of pit bulls' devastating and sometimes fatal attacks are legion.

One downtown Sudbury resident recently counted 28 pit bulls walking in public without muzzles. Only one had a proper muzzle.

When he reported the dogs to the city, he said he was asked for an address of the alleged violator so the city could investigate.

Unless someone is willing to follow the pit bull owner home - which isn't advisable - how is someone to provide an address?

A Sudbury Star reporter recently asked two pit bull owners about their decision to walk their dogs without a muzzle.

One said: "I don't need to (muzzle the dog); he won't bother anybody."

Famous last words. Vicious attacks by pit bulls are often followed by perplexed owners bemoaning that the dogs had never been aggressive before, and that the victim must have done something to provoke them.

Another pit bull owner said the law is "really a law in name only. The government passed it to make themselves look good, then they don't do anything about it."

Apparently, he's right. What do you think?

Send us your opinion in a Letter to the Editor at 33 MacKenzie St., Sudbury, P3C 4Y1, or fax it to 674-6834 or e-mail it to letters@thesudburystar.com

Vicious attacks by pit bulls are often followed by perplexed owners bemoaning that the dogs had never been aggressive before.

Student sinks her teeth into 'unfair' dog laws

This article can be read in the Vancouver Sun.

Student sinks her teeth into 'unfair' dog laws
Pit bull owner says the only thing that reduces dog bites is responsible ownership, not breed-specific laws
Nicholas Read, Vancouver Sun
Published: Thursday, July 20, 2006

To listen to story, click link

"In this country, you're supposed to be innocent until proven guilty. Unless you're a pit bull, which means you're guilty until proven innocent."

So says Simon Fraser University PhD candidate and pit bull owner Niki Huitson, whose master's thesis for the university's criminology department says breed-specific bylaws penalize dogs -- like pit bulls -- unfairly.

"They are not effective in reducing dog bites, which is supposed to be their goal," Huitson said.

Her research looked at the incidence of dog bites across Canada and the U.S., and found the only thing that worked was responsible dog ownership.

"By banning dogs, you're not reaching the owners, which are the problem," Huitson said.

In the Lower Mainland, Burnaby, Coquitlam, Delta, New Westminster and West Vancouver all have breed-specific bylaws, meaning pit bulls must be muzzled when in public and kept indoors or in prescribed outdoor enclosures.

Ontario has a similar province-wide bylaw, in addition to insisting that all pit bulls be neutered.

"Is that going to reduce dog bites in Ontario? No," says Huitson.

"Because there are statistics from England that say when they introduced a similar breed ban there, it didn't reduce dog bites at all."

As an example of a jurisdiction that works, she cites Calgary, which considers a dog dangerous only when it has attacked a person or another dog without provocation.

"In Calgary, 92 per cent of dog owners register their dogs. "And they have the least restrictive dog laws there are. They have the most off-leash parks and the most areas where dogs can be free. And yet they have the lowest number of dog bites."

She attributes that to a system of stiff fines that penalize the owner, not the dog.

Vancouver came to the same conclusion last November when it did away with its breed-specific bylaw in favour of one similar to Calgary's.

"We recognized it's not just pit bulls; any dog can be a vicious dog," said Bob Cristofoli, supervisor of field operations for Vancouver Animal Control.

"They all have 42 teeth, and they all have the capability of biting."

SPCA investigates teens for mouse 'snuff movie'

This is how it first starts. Usually, small rodents or small animals are the victims, but as that thrill isn't reaching their 'high' anymore, larger animals fall prey to these types of people. Gradually, it goes on to children and progresses on to adults.

Bernardo, Bundy, and many serial killers started out the same as these young girls. They lacked any remorse or compation for the small mouse as they burned it alive and laughed as they did so. To them, this discusting practice is thrill seeking. What will they move onto next?

This article can be found on Mail&Gaurdian Online.


SPCA investigates teens for mouse 'snuff movie'
Vivian Mooki Johannesburg, South Africa

Three Randburg teenage girls and a boy are being questioned by animal anti-cruelty authorities after they allegedly tormented a mouse with a lit cigarette before spraying it with an aerosol can and setting it on fire. The group was caught out after a video recorded on a cellphone landed at the offices of the the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) in Randburg.

"The national council of the SPCA was horrified and disgusted to see the torture of an animal recorded on the cellphone of a 15-year-old female,"

SPCA senior inspector Phillip Roberts said. "The 'snuff movie' also included the sound of juvenile girls shrieking with laughter as the small animal was tormented with a lit cigarette and set alight."

He said the mouse, bought at a Northgate pet shop, was confined in a cardboard box.

"The recording goes on to show the mouse running around inside the box as it is being sprayed with an aerosol, and then set alight with a pocket cigarette lighter," Roberts said.

"As the mouse is being burnt, a female voice is heard on the footage saying: 'I'm filming.'"

He said the mouse was still alive when the recording ended.

"Investigations continue but it is confirmed that criminal charges will be laid against the girls. There is no way that this incident can be excused, condoned or overlooked in any way," Roberts said.

He said the SPCA believed it would be failing in its duty to society if it didn't lay charges. It also appeared the teenagers had tortured another mouse just before buying the one they filmed.

"The footage of the torture of a defenceless animal, purchased from a pet shop specifically for this purpose was a knowing, calculated and callous action. At any point, any one of them could have stopped what was happening, but the sound effects reveal they egged each other on to further and greater cruelty," Roberts said.

He said investigations into the family backgrounds of those involved in the abuse will also be conducted.

"Liaison is taking place with psychologists and psychiatrists as well as educational authorities."

They faced a fine of up to R20 000 or four months' imprisonment if they were brought before a court and found guilty.

"The public prosecutor still has to decide whether to prosecute them or not, and it will then be up to the magistrate to impose a sentence if found guilty."

Roberts said the "horrific" abuse of a defenceless animal was not the first carried out by "legal minors".

"In 2005 there were several serious cases of animal abuse by young adults attending schools or places of learning."

This most recent event encapsulates and demonstrates what the SPCA movement refers to as 'first strike'... the scientifically-proven theory that those who abuse animals, especially in their youth, are likely to go on to other violent crimes committed against the vulnerable in our communities," he said.

- Sapa

Dogs are our best friends, not meat. STOP THE SLAUGHTER!

Dogs are our best friends, not meat - Philippines STOP brutality against them!

All information and photos you ca see here:
http://www.gan.ca/campaigns/philippines+dogs/index.en.html

Philippines Dogs

Overview

It is estimated that around 500 000 dogs are killed annually in the Philippines for human consumption. Eating dogs has been illegal since 1998, but because of a lack of enforcement, live dogs and dog meat are sold openly in the market place and restaurants. Although the vast majority of Filipinos don’t consume dogs, the lucrative trade in dog meat is becoming more prevalent, especially in the north of the Philippines in the region surrounding Baguio City. Here dogs are treated as nothing more than objects. Crammed so tightly into wire cages they cannot move, struggling for every breath in the stifling heat with their mouths tied shut, dogs have their throats cut while still conscious.

Fortunately, you can make a difference. Canada, as well as many other countries, are important trading partners for the Philippines – and our colleagues in the Philippines say enough diplomatic pressure will force their government to crack down on the dog meat traders.

Please take action now by sending an email to the Philippines ambassador. And ask all of your friends and relatives to do the same.

To sign the petition to stop this slaughter, please go to:
http://www.thepetitionsite.com/takeaction/985195393

Family pet credited with saving toddler's life

Another of the lists Dangerous Dog breeds showed his true nature in a terrifying incident in the Hamilton Spectator.

Family pet credited with saving toddler's life
PHILADELPHIA

A family dog has been credited with saving the life of a toddler who had climbed out of a second-storey window and scampered across the porch rooftops of at least eight row houses before being grabbed by a neighbour.

Residents were alerted by the barking of the family's German shepherd, Alfie, which followed the 23-month-old boy across the rooftops.

"He was protecting the baby, making sure the baby was all right," said one of the neighbours.

Another neighbour was able to grab the toddler from a porch roof a few doors down.

Child welfare officials placed the boy in the care of relatives while the incident was investigated.

The boy's father said he was embarrassed but grateful that his son was fine.

"It was my fault," he said.

"I didn't think he could get out there."

Canada Post issues warnings

This warning was issued through Canada Post in Winnipeg, Manitoba. I wonder why they would post such a warning, especially being in Winnipeg since all the bullie breeds have been banned from there about 10 years now.

Are they saying they STILL have a dog problem? Funny, they denied that to Michael Bryant.

Warm Weather Increases Risk of Dog Bites-Manitobans Urged to Secure Dogs to Ensure Safety of Letter Carriers

WINNIPEG, MANITOBA--
(CCNMatthews - July 14, 2006)

With warm summer weather and more dogs left outdoors during the day, Canada Post letter carriers are increasingly at risk of dog bites or attacks. So far this year, five Last year, ten Manitoba letter carriers in Northwest Ontario have received dog bites, resulting in three days of missed work.

Dog bites and attacks are most frequent in the summer months when many dogs spend more time outside.

"Dogs that are usually friendly can respond differently to a strange person in uniform," says Gail Woollard-Barnes, Safety Support Officer with Canada Post.

"Dogs may feel threatened and act to protect their territory."

In addition to bites from unsecured dogs in yards, some biting incidents occur when a resident meets the letter carrier at the door and the dog darts out and attacks the carrier.

Carriers are provided with training to deal with potentially dangerous situations involving dogs but a full mailbag can make it very difficult for carriers to prevent an attack. Burling advises homeowners or tenants to take the following precautions to make their property safer:

- Ideally, secure the dog inside

- If the dog is kept outside, place it in a dog run or secure with a strong leash and collar and make sure that the dog cannot reach any part of the carrier's line of travel

- Ensure your property is fenced

- Move mailboxes closer to the gate and fence

- When answering the door to sign for a delivery, ensure that the dog is secured inside the house

Following these precautions will prevent interruption to mail delivery and avoid potential legal action for lost salaries, medical bills or other related expenses, as well as create safer neighbourhoods.

Letter carriers bitten by dogs require an immediate physical examination and possible tetanus shots. Incidents are reported to local animal protection authorities, which will investigate and take action ranging from warning the dog owner to issuing a ticket. In the most severe incidents, the dog may be euthanized.

CONTACT INFORMATION

Canada Post
Gail Woollard-Barnes,
Safety Support Officer,
Winnipeg, MB
(204) 987-5305
or
Canada Post
James Erickson,
Safety Support Officer,
Winnipeg, MB
(204) 987-5303

The 'Secret' Diary of Shasta

I thought this was cute and stole it from Shasta's Secret Diary on Dogster.
Things just keep getting better and BETTER!
July 15th 2006 12:03 pm

It's been excitement over excitement. Mommy just keeps telling me all the wonderful news and both her and me are in disbelief and shock that there has been a total turn around in our lives.

No, no! It's NOT what you're thinking! The ban is still on and so is the muzzle.

Our doggy classes keep getting more fun each week and this last week, all the excitement barks were quiet when we fist entered. We're getting used to meeting each week and you can tell our socializing skills are coming back to normal again for the bullie breeds in the class. It's funny what a difference even once a week makes. My favorite night of the week!

My two favorite dogs in the class is one of my best friend, Brutus and Auntie Em's puppy, Daphne. I loved Daphne from the first class we ever had and now we are really good friends. She loves EVERY body and every doggie and she's cute as a button...whatever that means. It's a human saying that doesn't make sense, but it's meant in a good way. BOL

Our next grrreat new's came from Raven's Mommy to mine. She knows the actress, Linda Blair and Linda Blair's passion is animal rescue and has her own rescue organization herself. She visited Mommy's web site and said it really touched her.

Heck. An easier way would be to cut and paste the email on here and you can read it for yourself. Raven's mommy wanted to cheer mommy up with the news especially since she has been sick for so many months now. Here it is;

I got an Email from my friend Linda this morning and she will be coming to Toronto in September! I've attached her note for you to read & here's a link to her website: Linda Blair WorldHeart Foundation. I hope you are pleasantly surprised!

Love you,

Rebecca & Raven, SD

(Rick says "Hi Connie" he's on his way out the door.)

----- Original Message ----- From: WorldHeart To: RICK REBECCA WALKER
Sent: Friday, June 30, 2006 7:37 PM

Subject: Linda B here/ Connie Toronto

Rick and Rebecca,

I feel so bad. I have been so overwhelmed that I misplaced your email BUT did NOT FORGET you.

I went to Connie's website and was so touched! I asked Beth to put her story on my website but she sorta got busy and forgot I guess...

I was so touched by COnnie and her story that I have agreed to come to Toronto really soon for an autograph show and they are allowing me a talk with Q&A on the animal Welfare issues there. I believe it is Sept?

Beth, my amazing friend who helps with website JUST MOVED TO Colorado. SO we have sorta been on a plateau webwize for a month.

Let communicate again. I think the world of you both and hope to see Connie real soon with her dog if we can get him in to the auditorium and for you to meet Beth in person. I hope to get out there soon too!

Love Linda

So we will be going to Toronto in September to finally meet Raven, his mommy and daddy for the first time and Linda Blair too. Hopefully, we will have won our court case by then and I won't have to wear my muzzle.

The 'he', Linda was referring to was Raven. He has never flown out of the country before and his mommy doesn't know what papers are required for him as he is Aunties Service Dog too.

Then Auntie Nebbie phoned from Florida. Mommy finally met her 8 years ago after emailing back and forth for many years. Mommy went and stayed with her for a whole month, plus she met two more of her emailing buddies she had never met before.Well this time, Auntie Nebbie is coming here and visiting us in late September.When it rains good news, it pours, but I'm not finished yet. It STILL gets better.

My friend, Daisy and her mommy emailed and said they were going to be in Ontario from Nova Scotia and they were finally coming to meet us too. Anutie Gail said it would be on a Sunday, but not sure if it will be this Sunday or not. That would have been tomorrow...maybe.Well just as we were about to go out the door to training class Thurday night, the phone rang and it was Auntie Gail. They would be over by Friday morning.

Auntie Gail bought Daisy and me matching Canadian banadana's so we look like twins. BOL Mommy still needs to put the picture up for all Dogster to see. She brought us lots of treats and Daisy brought us some plain Timmie's treats. YUMMM! *drool* I'm meeting a lot of my Dogster pals and that's soooo barking grrrreat!

Then mommy received an email from her long time email friend, Auntie Sharon. She will be in Toronto from Trinidad in September too and we are goung to meet her too.

Mommy is hoping her body will get better for all this excitement. I'm trying really hard to take care of her, but her body is doing weird things it's never done before and all I can do is be there for her. I can't make it go away. But the last of the good news is still to come.

Mommy finally went to her new doctor and they were talking about him helping to get me certified as her Service Dog. Since I help her with panic attacks and phobias, he needs to send her to a phsyciatrist to have him write her a letter that she needs me as her PSD Service Dog too. Then her doctor will write the letters and forms required for me once she received that other one.

Since I already have my CGN certificate, we are working on me being able to pass my TT and UD test from Delta Society. Mommy got so excited with everything falling into place that she ordered me my SD vest and patches because she wants me to have them by the times I'm registered.

If it hadn't been for my pal, Rambo and his mommy, we may have never learnt how to get me certified in Canada. Thanks Rambo!!!

Just think, I'll finally have all my certificates, my uniform and be as a Registered Service/Guide Dog that I will be able to help mommy even more. How much grrrreater can it get! I feel like howling. I'm THAT barking happy and excited. I'm in puppy heaven, but not the Rainbow Bridge kind. HOOOOOOWWWWWLLLLLL!!!!

*woof* Shasta

A Worthy dog debate

By Wellington's first two columns, 'Pitbull attacks columnist's dog' (July 9th) and 'on Ontario's pit bull ban', that spurred a hardy amount of outpouring. Wellington responds in the Toronto Sun by noting some of the email he received.

Tue, July 11, 2006
A Worthy dog debate
Pit bull column stirs up 'firestorm' as readers attack, defend rights of banned pooches
By PETER WORTHINGTON

After my column last week concerning a pit bull attack on our Jack Russell terrier, Murphy, Garry Davis, of Prince Edward County animal control, phoned my wife and said something of a "firestorm" had been created.

The Picton Gazette carried a front-page story, and pro and con elements on Ontario's ban and restrictions on pit bull-type dogs jumped both feet into the fray.

In Toronto, too, reaction was strong, and letters and e-mails flooded in, some of which I'll summarize here.

To go back, at our place near Wellington, 15 km west of Picton, a neighbour's pit bull, which we've had trouble with for a year, spotted 13-year-old Murphy and attacked, gouging a chunk off her ribs.

Owner and dog went on the lam but were caught a week later.

The owner was charged and the pit bull, named "Sniper," was put down.

My story didn't blame the dog -- bred to be a fighter with excessive courage, strength and loyalty -- but the owner who didn't keep the dog in accordance with Ontario law -- muzzled and leashed.

Here are some reactions:

- Steve Barker, a pit bull owner who says his dog bears scars from a Wheaten terrier attack, accuses me of "writing drivel simply to get a reaction (i.e. sell newspapers)." He says that "there are dog fights every day" in Toronto, but pit bulls "are more tolerant of irritations than most other breeds."

- While this may be his experience, Daniel Gordon notes that England has banned the breed because, among other things, "pit bulls have been bred to kill and in their minds it's not in their best interests to not kill; it automatically perceives whatever it is attacking as a threat to itself." He says, "For pit bull owners to suggest their dogs are no different from any other breed is completely ignorant of the ticking time bomb that's on the end of their leash."

- Mike MacKinnon, "proud American Staffordshire bull terrier owner," claims my "anecdotal evidence is hardly responsible reporting." He writes (correctly): "Any dog, poorly raised and socialized, can be a menace ... Stop picking on pit bulls. Talk about serious dog attacks by other 'friendlier' breeds before you write more nonsense."

- John Brooker cut to the chase and wrote: "The breed ban is due to the unique nature of the pit bull. Once a pit bull sets its jaw, it takes tremendous effort to release whatever it is locked on. The jaw is designed to kill, which is not a feature of any other breed. That is the reason it needs a ban."

- Kelly Caldwell, editor-in-chief of Dogs in Canada magazine, felt that "the crux of the problem lies in irresponsible pet owners." She's "fighting passionately" to end breed-specific legislation and blames owners for most dog incidents.

- Susan Macleod's letter ran in the Sun and recounted how her pit bull-type dog was twice attacked by different Jack Russell terriers. If she didn't view dogs as "individuals," she says that she "would assume that (Jack Russells) were all programmed to attack pit bulls." In this case, her pit bull didn't retaliate. (As a JR owner, I view that verging on preposterous).

- Mitchell St. Croix noted that small dogs were probably worse offenders than pit bulls when it comes to biting, but if "a Jack Russell comes after you, you are not likely to be in any real danger. A PB attacks you and it can be (and often is) devastating. A PB attacks and it laughs off fists and bats, even taking several gun shots to get its attention."

- Bryan Dale accused me "once again" of launching an unfounded attack on pit bulls, and feels, "like Dan Rather he (me) has simply become too old and feeble-minded to properly research" columns. He is asking the Ontario Press Council to take action on my "breach of ethical standards."

- Maureen Chilko is "stunned" by the response of owners whenever a dog or child is attacked by a pit bull. "Dog owners have the same response: 'I have no idea what happened, the dog has always been so gentle, we've never had problems with this dog.' " She adds: "While every pit bull is not violent, each has the potential to be violent and attack ... to seriously injure or kill ... due to the physical nature of the breed."

- Colleen Nimere expresses sorrow for Murphy (who's doing well and shows no signs of post-traumatic stress disorder) and focuses on irresponsible owners. She says if pit bulls weren't available, "I assume their next dog of choice would not be a Shih Tzu." She owns a pit bull who, "muzzle and all," is the mascot of "his human sister's soccer team." She thinks Jack Russells are "easily irritated" and not good with little children. By owning one I am putting grandchildren at risk. (My response: Murphy -- like her five predecessors -- adores kids but hides under the bed when they get rambunctious).

- Lisa LeLeu recalls that her son was attacked "by a supposedly nice family pit bull." She has started an educational website to teach dog safety.

- Eric Sparling calls my account of the attack on Murphy "shoddy journalism" and says "there isn't a dog breed on the planet that hasn't attacked at some point." Owners should be held responsible, but he "rejects ... the specious assumption that aggressiveness or a propensity to attack can be determined by a dog's appearance or breed distinction."

- Sophie Zaworski calls my column a "rant" and says the problem lies with authorities who don't police who buys a cat or dog -- which "any moron can purchase." She tells of a Yorkshire terrier that "ripped its owner's nose off," but the media don't seek to ban that breed. She owns a Staffordshire terrier and an Akita, and views small dogs as a greater menace.

- Selma Mulvey doesn't think much of me, but is more upset at "the Ontario Liberals unfounded, unresearched and ill-advised attempt to play to the gallery as a result of media-driven hysteria around the purported 'breed' of dog."

- Nancy Flint, probably speaks for all factions when she cites her car bumper sticker: "There are no bad dogs, just bad owners."

This, then, is a cross-section of views on the pit bull issue, resulting from the unprovoked attack on Murphy and our concern that it could have happened on our small grandchildren or the neighbours child, since the dog was never muzzled, and ran free.

In a future article I'll explore why pit bulls, despite their fans, are not suitable to be trained for work with the police.

TERRIFIC e-bay items towards the Legal Fund

Generously donated by Belle Severn, this gorgeous staffie print is up for auction on e-bay.

Check out this adorable vintage children's book and Stafford World 2000, a collector's item as it is no longer in print

All proceeds to the defense fund! Please be generous!

Please cross-post freely

Happy Canada Day