MCHA Monthly Newsletter
Have an idea for an article? Email us!
October 2024 Newsletter
Animal Safety & Protection
Written by Leslie Hudson, CPDT
October marks National Animal Safety and Protection Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of keeping animals safe and protected. Whether you’re a pet owner, animal lover, or simply someone who cares about the well-being of creatures around us, this month serves as a reminder that safeguarding animals is a responsibility we all share. One of the key components of National Animal Safety and Protection Month is educating ourselves and others about animal welfare. Whether it’s learning pet first aid, supporting local animal shelters, or advocating for stronger animal protection laws, every action counts.
Why Animal Safety Matters
Animals enrich our lives and the world around us. Pets bring companionship, comfort, and joy, while wildlife helps maintain ecological balance. However, animals face numerous dangers, from household accidents to human-induced environmental threats. Ensuring their safety not only improves their well-being but also contributes to the health and safety of humans. This month, we explore key areas where we can make a difference, including humane education and the prevention of zoonotic diseases.
Animals, both domestic and wild, play a significant role in our ecosystem and our lives. Pets offer companionship and joy, while wild animals contribute to biodiversity and environmental balance. However, animals, like humans, are vulnerable to accidents, environmental hazards, and mistreatment. From the dangers pets face in our homes to the risks wild animals encounter due to habitat loss and human activities, ensuring their safety requires continuous effort and education.
Key Areas of Focus for National Animal Safety and Protection Month
Pet Safety at Home: Our homes can be filled with hidden dangers for our pets. From household cleaning products to certain foods that are toxic to animals, pet owners must be vigilant. Here are a few tips:
- Pet-proof your home by keeping harmful substances like cleaning products, medications,and certain plants out of reach.
- Provide a safe space for your pet where they can retreat when they feel overwhelmed.
- Check the home for choking hazards, and harmful items. Regularly check for choking hazards such as small toys, wires, or even certain types of bedding that might be harmful.
Healthy Habits & Regular Vet Visits: Schedule routine check-ups for your pets. Annual exams, vaccinations, and preventive treatments, such as flea, tick, and worm control, help reduce the risk of zoonotic disease transmission.
- Vaccinations and Preventatives are important. Regularly monitor your dog’s weight and overall health through vet check-ups. Keep your pets’ vaccinations up to date, especially for diseases like rabies.
- Regular Exercise & Health: Engage your pets in routine walks, play sessions, and activities suitable for their breed and age.
- Weight Management: Maintaining a healthy weight is crucial for your dog’s well-being. Pet obesity is a significant issue, with up to 59% of dogs and cats estimated to be overweight. Be mindful of your pet’s meals and treats, and provide a well-balanced, portion-controlled diet tailored to their specific needs and life stage.
- Training and Behavior Enrichment: Training and enrichment are essential for your pet’s safety and protection. Many pets face homelessness due to behavioral problems. Understand your pet’s normal behavior and provide enrichment with toys, exercise, and mental stimulation to help curb unwanted behaviors.
Outdoor Animal Safety: Whether your pet roams your backyard, or you frequently encounter wildlife, outdoor safety is critical.
- Pet-proof your home. Ensure that your yard is securely fenced if you have outdoors pets.
- Minimize Wildlife Contact. While it’s wonderful to appreciate wildlife, it’s essential to keep your pets at a safe distance from wild animals, which can carry diseases like leptospirosis or Lyme disease.
- Provide Shelter. Be cautious of wildlife interactions. Both pets and wild animals can be harmed if they come into contact with one another. During colder months, provide shelter or warmth for outdoor pets, or consider bringing them indoors.
Emergency Preparedness: Emergencies such as natural disasters or accidents can affect both people and animals. Preparing a plan for your pets is essential.
- Stay Informed: Stay informed about potential emergencies or disasters in your area, such as severe weather events or wildfires, and be prepared to take action to keep your pet safe. Sign up for emergency alerts and monitor local news updates.
- Designated Caregiver: Choose a trusted friend, family member, or neighbor who can care for your pet in case you are unable to do so during an emergency. Provide her with access to your home, keys, and detailed care instructions for your pet.
- Pet Emergency Kit. Assemble a kit containing essentials such as food, water, medications, first aid supplies, copies of medical records, a leash, waste bags, and comfort items like blankets or toys.
- Get Certified in Pet First Aid Skills. Take a pet first aid and safety class to learn essential pet emergency lifesaving skills. Check out Pet Tech’s website to search for a trainer and upcoming classes near you.
- ID Tags & Microchips: Ensure your pet wears a collar with ID tags containing up-to-date contact information. Consider microchipping your pet for permanent identification.
- Emergency Contacts: Keep a list of emergency contacts, including your veterinarian, local animal control, pet-friendly shelters, and your designated caregiver. Make sure these contacts are easily accessible. ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center 888-426-4435
- Emergency Plan & Community Resources: Familiarize yourself with local pet-friendly shelters in case of evacuation. Identify pet-friendly evacuation shelters, hotels, or boarding facilities in your area and include her in your emergency plan. Plan multiple evacuation routes and practice her with your pet to familiarize her with the process. Research local emergency resources, such as pet-friendly shelters, animal rescue organizations, and veterinary clinics that offer emergency services. Familiarize yourself with their locations and contact information to access assistance quickly if needed.
Wildlife Protection: Protecting wildlife is just as important as safeguarding our pets. Human activities can threaten wildlife, but small changes can make a big impact:
- Mindful Landscaping. Avoid using pesticides and harmful chemicals in your garden, as they can be fatal to animals. Consider wildlife-friendly landscaping by planting native species that attract and provide shelter for local fauna.
As we celebrate National Animal Safety and Protection Month this October, let’s commit to being proactive in protecting animals. Whether it’s securing your home for your pets, preparing for emergencies, or making the outdoors safer for wildlife, every step we take helps build a safer world for the animals who share our lives.
By fostering a community that values the well-being of animals, we not only enhance their quality of life but also contribute to a more compassionate, sustainable planet. Let’s pledge to protect and care for animals, not just in October, but all year long.
Addressing Pet Obesity
In addition to National Animal Safety and Protection Month, October serves double duty as Pet Obesity Awareness Month, a crucial reminder for pet owners to protect the health of their pets against the rising epidemic of pet obesity. Much like humans, pets are prone to various health issues when they carry extra weight. From shorter lifespans to chronic diseases, pet obesity can significantly impact an animal’s quality of life. This month is dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of keeping pets fit, healthy, and happy.
The Scope of the Problem
The problem of pet obesity is widespread, affecting dogs, cats, and even smaller animals like rabbits and birds. According to the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention (APOP), over 55% of dogs and 60% of cats in the U.S. are considered overweight or obese. These numbers have been steadily rising for the past decade, making obesity one of the most common preventable health issues in pets.
For many pet owners, it can be difficult to recognize that their pet is overweight, as weight gain tends to happen gradually. Additionally, some breeds naturally appear bulkier, making it challenging to distinguish between a healthy pet and an overweight one. Pet Obesity Awareness Month encourages owners to regularly monitor their pet’s weight and seek advice from veterinarians to ensure their pets remain within a healthy range.
Health Risks of Pet Obesity
Carrying excess weight can predispose pets to a wide array of serious health conditions, including:
Diabetes: Overweight pets, especially cats, are more prone to developing diabetes, which may require daily insulin shots, dietary changes, and regular blood glucose monitoring.
Arthritis: Extra weight puts additional strain on joints, leading to the early onset of arthritis. This can limit a pet’s mobility and significantly reduce their quality of life.
Heart Disease: Pets with excessive body fat are at a higher risk for developing cardiovascular problems, which can shorten their lifespan.
Respiratory Issues: Obese pets often struggle to breathe, especially during exercise, which leads to fatigue and lethargy.
Cancer: Research has shown that overweight pets have a higher risk of developing certain types of cancer.
Causes of Pet Obesity
Several factors contribute to pet obesity, most of which can be controlled by pet owners. Key causes include:
Overfeeding: Many pet owners equate food with love, and as a result, they overfeed their pets. Offering excessive treats, table scraps, or filling their food bowl too often can lead to a caloric surplus.
Lack of Exercise: Just like humans, pets need physical activity to burn calories. Sedentary lifestyles, especially for indoor pets, can contribute to weight gain. Exercise is crucial for high-energy breeds that require regular physical stimulation.
Improper Diet: Many commercial pet foods are calorie-dense and filled with unhealthy fillers. Owners who don’t monitor portion sizes or feed their pets high-calorie diets can inadvertently contribute to their pet’s weight issues.
Age and Medical Conditions: Older pets or those with certain medical conditions may be more prone to weight gain due to reduced activity levels and slower metabolisms. Owners should adjust their pets’ diets as they age or after consulting with a veterinarian about specific health issues.
Preventing & Addressing Pet Obesity
Pet Obesity Awareness Month emphasizes prevention as the most effective way to combat obesity in pets. Here are some practical tips for maintaining a healthy weight for your furry companion:
Regular Vet Check-ups: Routine vet visits can help catch weight issues early. Vets can also guide owners in choosing the right food and feeding schedule for their pet’s age, breed, and health needs.
Controlled Feeding: Use measuring cups or scales to ensure correct portion sizes. Free-feeding (leaving food out all day) can lead to overeating, so it’s better to stick to set meal times.
Exercise: Daily walks, playtime, or interactive toys can help pets burn calories and stay active. Cats can benefit from laser pointers or feather toys, while dogs enjoy games like fetch or obstacle courses.
Low-calorie Treats: Instead of calorie-laden commercial treats offer healthier alternatives like small pieces of carrots, apples, or vet-approved snacks. Remember, moderation is key.
Monitor Weight: Keep records of your pet’s weight and body condition. If your pet is overweight, your veterinarian can help you create a weight loss plan.
Spreading Awareness
Pet Obesity Awareness Month is not just about educating individual pet owners—it’s also about engaging communities. Many veterinary clinics and pet organizations host events, workshops, and health assessments during this month. By raising awareness, pet owners can be empowered to make better choices for their pets’ health and longevity.
Remember, our pets depend on us to make informed decisions about their health and well-being. Maintaining a healthy weight for your pet is a cornerstone of their overall health, reducing the risk of chronic diseases and extending their lives. By recognizing the importance of proper diet, exercise, and regular vet visits, pet owners can help their furry friends live longer, happier lives. After all, a healthy pet is a happy pet.
Run for the Animals & Barktoberfest a Success!
Thank you to everyone who supported and/or participated in this year’s Run for the Animals & Barktoberfest, presented by The Dog House! We had a blast! We hosted nearly 300 attendees, including over 250 registered runners/walkers. We were also happy to see so many cute pups turn out this year! Check out the event photos here.
We were excited to offer an improved course this year, and the immediate feedback was very positive. We also added new age group award categories, which were equally well-received. (View race results here.) If you attended, we’re interested to hear what you thought! Keep an eye on your inbox for a forthcoming survey.
Lastly, despite so many local events competing for your attention this year, we still managed to reach our fundraising goal with your help! Between registration, raffle proceeds, donations, and sponsorships, you helped us raise over $17,000 to help fund MCHA’s community services this year—an increase from 2023! Thank you!
Please join us in thanking this year’s event sponsors:
Presenting Sponsor: The Dog House LLC
Gold Sponsors: Monroe County Fairgrounds , Monroe County Parks and Recreation, & SHINE Insurance Agency
Silver Sponsors: Atchison Eyecare & Associates, WBWB—Bloomington’s B97, Bloomington Indiana Kennel Club, GigabitNow Indiana, Mad 4 My Dog, Megan Ratts Photography, Old National Bank Bloomington, Pet Paws Transit, Scout’s Honor, Shelter Insurance, Hazen Insurance Agency, & Slotegraaf Niehoff PC
Bronze Sponsors: Crazy Horse Bloomington, Fresh Thyme Market, German American Bank Bloomington, Hoosier Hills Credit Union, House of Paws Grooming, IU Cinema, IU Credit Union, Root Advisors, Studio K-9, Town & Country Veterinary Clinic, Watson Vet, & The Uncloggables Plumbing
Additional sponsors: Hopscotch Coffee, Senior Solutions of Bloomington, & Wesson’s Canine Bakery
Vendors: Bloomington Animal Care & Control, Caricatures by Dan Alexander, Cup of Joy, Flying Paws, German American Bank, GigabitNow, Pet Paws Transit, Planted Bloomington, Scouts Honor, The Dog House, The Pipsqueakery, Wildcare, Inc, & Wesson’s Canine Bakery
Vet Tech Appreciation Week
Last week, we celebrated National Veterinary Technician Appreciation Week (October 13-19) as we recognized the hard work, compassion, and expertise of our veterinary technicians at MCHA. Ashli, Colleen, Halley, Liz, Karen, and Sarah play a crucial role at our clinic, assisting in procedures and surgeries and providing love and care to our patients, including those in our crisis housing and during street outreach. We can’t express enough our gratitude for their tireless efforts in supporting both the animals and families of our community.
MCHA Dog Walking Club | October 26 | 9 a.m.
Saturday, October 26, 2024 | 9 a.m.
Meet at the MCHA Clinic
791 S Fieldstone Blvd, Bloomington, IN 47403
Are you interested in joining a walking club with other dog lovers to learn how to walk trails with your dog? This will teach your dog healthy interactions, good leash walking habits, and safe trail walking! Join us promptly at 9 a.m. on the last Saturday of each month, weather permitting. Just bring your dog, a leash, and good walking shoes for a fun walk on our walking trails through the woods surrounding the clinic.
Registration is not required; this is an open and free event!
Upcoming Mobile Vaccine Clinic | November 3
Sunday, November 3 | 1–3 p.m.
Banneker Community Center
930 W 7th St, Bloomington, IN 47404
On Sunday, November 3, 2024, Banneker Community Center will host the MCHA veterinary team from 1–3 p.m. with no appointment needed. All are welcome!
Our Mobile Vaccine Clinics offer a range of services, including legally mandated rabies vaccines for pets aged 12 weeks and older. Additionally, we provide nail trims, anal gland expressions, microchips, and preventive measures for flea, tick, and heartworm. While these clinics are intended for healthy dogs and cats, they are not a substitute for your pet’s annual wellness check-up with your primary veterinarian.
Subsidized pricing is available for clients who present proof of a government subsidy program, or other proof of financial hardship.
MCHA Community Sale | November 16
Saturday November 16 | 10 a.m.–2 p.m.
Monroe County Humane Association
791 S Fieldstone Blvd Bloomington, IN 47403
Come out to MCHA’s Animal Care Campus to browse and shop for new and gently used pet care items including beds, toys, food and water bowls, leashes, collars, pet clothes, and more! Items are limited and largely dependent on donations, so we recommend coming early after we open to shop the widest selection.
Have extra pet items to donate to the sale? We accept new or like-new item donations. Donations can be dropped off at our animal care campus anytime from today through Friday, November 8—stop by during normal business hours or leave items in our donation box after hours. We ask that items are washed prior to donation.
All proceeds from this sale benefit MCHA’s programs and services.
Mission Moment: Feeding Hungry Cats & Dogs
At Monroe County Humane Association, our Pet Food Pantry is crucial in keeping pets and families together by providing essential cat and dog food to those in need.
Last year, we distributed 25,000 pounds of food for several thousand animals, and we’re on track to far surpass that amount in 2024. The demand continues to grow, and with your support, we’re ensuring that no pet goes hungry.
Every bag and can of food you contribute makes a direct impact, helping us keep our community’s pets healthy and well-fed.
Thank you for being part of our mission and for helping us care for the pets that mean so much to their families.
Vote for Positive Change
We are excited to announce that Monroe County Humane Association has been nominated for Bloomingfoods’ Positive Change program for 2025!
The Positive Change program is intended to benefit organizations that are Bloomington or Monroe County-based and support the Bloomington community, including those offering programs that support the education, health, and well-being of the people in our community. MCHA does all of those things and more through our six main objectives;
-
- Affordable animal care: Providing low-cost services through our non-profit veterinary clinic and mobile vaccine clinics, ensuring thousands of pets receive essential care.
- E. Susan Bartlett Crisis Housing Program: Offering temporary shelter for pets during family emergencies, housing transitions, hospitalizations, domestic violence, or addiction recovery, keeping pets safe and families together.
- Pet food and supply pantry: Distributing more than 12.5 tons of pet food and supplies to hungry cats and dogs whose owners are in financial distress, preventing pet surrender to our local shelters.
- Humane education: Promoting compassionate and responsible pet ownership and providing animal-assisted therapy through educational programs.
- Spay/neuter assistance: Reducing pet overpopulation by helping pet owners with the cost of spay/neuter surgeries through a voucher program.
- Street Outreach: Reaching underserved communities by providing free veterinary care and supplies to pets of individuals experiencing homelessness or in transitional housing, promoting public health by keeping these pets vaccinated and healthy.
Of the 40+ worthy local non-profits up for consideration, only 11 recipients will be chosen to receive vital support through this generous initiative. We need YOUR vote to help us make it to the final selection!
You are eligible to vote through October 25 if you are a Bloomingfoods Co-op Owner-Member. View the voting guide.
Not a member of Bloomingfoods? There are other ways you can support our work:
-
- Donate pet food and supplies via our Amazon, Walmart, or Chewy wish lists
- Make a direct donation to support clinic operations
- Volunteer at the MCHA animal care campus, at our community events, or get involved with our therapy animal program.
Your support is the foundation of our organization and allows us to continue to provide direct assistance to the families and the pets of our community who need it most. We hope you’ll consider the impact of this opportunity and cast your vote for MCHA today!
Monthly Giving: Make a Lasting Impact
One of the easiest ways to support MCHA’s mission and make an impactful contribution is through our Monthly Giving program. By contributing today, you are not only helping us fulfill immediate needs by supporting operational costs for our subsidized veterinary clinic, crisis housing, and pet food pantry, but also providing reliable support for families and pets in our community in need of our help.
Thanks to a generous $10,000 matching gift from dedicated donors, Beth and Fred Cate, every dollar you donate will be doubled, effectively doubling your impact!
As a thank you for becoming a monthly donor, you will receive a pair of lime green sunglasses ($10/month pledge) or a cool blue tumbler ($20/month pledge).
Message From MCHA's Executive Director
As Halloween approaches, we at MCHA want to thank you for your continued support. Your generosity helps us keep pets safe and healthy in our community. Halloween can bring unique risks for pets, especially with children in the home where candy and wrappers might be easily dropped. Here are a few quick tips to ensure everyone has a safe holiday:
Keep treats out of reach: Chocolate and candy can be harmful to pets, and wrappers can be dangerous if ingested.
Secure your pets indoors: Increased activity and costumes can cause anxiety, so provide a quiet, safe space where your pet can relax. Make sure they have their ID tags on, just in case.
Choose pet-friendly costumes: Ensure they’re comfortable and don’t restrict movement or vision. For pets with sensitive skin, be extra careful, as certain fabrics could cause irritation.
Thank you for making a difference. Wishing you and your pets a safe and happy Halloween! — Andrew Krebbs, MCHA Executive Director
Get Involved – Volunteer
Become a foster parent—volunteer for MCHA and make a meaningful difference in the lives of animals in our Crisis Housing Program!
For animals who need to stay in our care for extended periods, a loving foster home provides a comforting environment where they can thrive until they’re reunited with their families. By opening your heart and home, you’ll give these pets the care and stability they need during a challenging time.
If you’re interested in becoming a foster parent, please contact our Volunteer Coordinator, Whitney Pickett, at wpickett@monroehumane.org.
Your support can make all the difference!
Interested in sponsoring our newsletter? Email mcha@monroehumane.org for details.
MAILING ADDRESS
P.O. Box 1334
Bloomington, IN 47402
ANIMAL CARE CAMPUS
791 S Fieldstone Blvd
Bloomington, IN 47403
Sunday: Closed
Monday: 10 a.m.–4 p.m.
Tuesday: 10 a.m.–6 p.m.
Wednesday: 10 a.m.–6 p.m.
Thursday: 10 a.m.–6 p.m.
Friday: Closed
Saturday: Closed
FOLLOW US
Monroe County Humane Association is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization that relies on donations, sponsorships, and grants to fund all of our programs and services. EIN: 35-6064277
Monroe County Humane Association proudly collaborates, but is distinct from, the City of Bloomington Animal Shelter. For services such as adoption, lost/found pets, shelter hours, and animal control, feel free to reach out to our friends at the City of Bloomington Animal Care & Control at 812-349-3492. Together, we're caring for our community's animals.