tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-46477998176287103262024-02-07T15:11:47.183-05:00Capital AnimalsBethanyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10863027065920743028noreply@blogger.comBlogger142125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4647799817628710326.post-63053412125239573112012-02-08T00:22:00.002-05:002012-02-08T00:22:23.137-05:00Blog moving!Hey! You can now see this blog over at www.capitalanimals.com. Head on over!Bethanyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10863027065920743028noreply@blogger.com20tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4647799817628710326.post-58444882283735600322012-01-20T17:59:00.000-05:002012-01-20T17:59:27.962-05:00I'm back!Hello! While I was at the shelter I wasn't blogging due to some in-house rules about conflict of interest, but I'm not there anymore. The upshot--I'm back at Capital Animals!<br />
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I know, I know, you all have missed me oh so much.<br />
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Anyway, I hope that you all have had some great months saving animals, spreading good news, fighting tyranny, and celebrating your furry friends (although I have nothing against celebrating friends who are furries, let me clarify that I do in fact mean friends with actual fur here).<br />
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So I have some topics in my head for upcoming blog posts--animal books, cruelty-free product reviews, animal events around town, etc etc, but I'm curious. For anyone who still has this in their blog roll--what would you like to see?<br />
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For now, I'll leave you with a photo of Toby being adorable (he's so happy I'm blogging again that he tried to walk across the keyboard multiple times to say hello to you all).<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJE5sfo9Z-j-aU5PSQK5Wkvvkp-McXh_Qf60lbldKtT82pFX_c8_gB6nQfah5fw71EwF3NR4lC4aaNkq_rCZ65109auJEGJ_OiZhEWXhK0Rs-2aPSbeEzLKfDeq3HZnH26QdOUc0lkM6QS/s1600/Toby+on+top+of+shelf.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJE5sfo9Z-j-aU5PSQK5Wkvvkp-McXh_Qf60lbldKtT82pFX_c8_gB6nQfah5fw71EwF3NR4lC4aaNkq_rCZ65109auJEGJ_OiZhEWXhK0Rs-2aPSbeEzLKfDeq3HZnH26QdOUc0lkM6QS/s320/Toby+on+top+of+shelf.JPG" width="179" /></a></div><br />
On second thought, he looks a little possessed there, like he'd fit in well with the demons of <i>Wild Ride</i> below him.Bethanyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10863027065920743028noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4647799817628710326.post-17611793665101138992011-09-05T12:41:00.000-04:002011-09-05T12:41:31.630-04:00This will not be updating for the near futureDue to changing jobs and now working for an animal shelter to coordinate adoptions outreach there, I no longer feel that it is ethical for me to keep up this blog. I will keep it up for awhile because I may return to it in the future after more thought and after I become more comfortable with the ethical interplay between being a private blogger and an employee of a public shelter.<br />
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Thank you for reading. I do miss writing here.Bethanyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10863027065920743028noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4647799817628710326.post-19802878021889250822011-03-21T15:30:00.001-04:002011-03-21T15:31:57.623-04:00Come Together<a href="http://www.washingtonpost.com/opinions/no-good-for-the-birds-but-also-no-good-for-the-cats/2011/03/17/ABLGkvr_story.html"> The Smithsonian</a> claims that outdoor cats (feral and pet) are a serious danger to birds. They even seem to suggest (subtly) that TNR be abandoned and that TNR supporters are unknowingly killing birds.<br />
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<a href="http://www.alleycat.org/NetCommunity/Page.aspx?pid=324">Alley Cat Allies claims</a> that loss of habitat and increased human activities are a far greater danger to birds than cats ever will be.<br />
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Both sides were posting on twitter in a way that made me, as a supporter of both organizations, feel a bit awkward.<br />
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My take? They need to work together. Alley Cat Allies should push hard for cat parents to keep their kitties indoor only, with a strong push at suburban areas where the Smithsonian claims birds are being killed most often. The Smithsonian, instead of trying to claim that TNR is ineffective (without any research to back this up) because it requires a 70% saturation in a colony, should actually make a push for strong TNR. Help people trap kitties, donate the time of the zoo vets to assist with the spay/neuter surgeries. Maybe the two could even have a cross-promotion where for every cat owner who signs a pledge to keep her cat indoors-only and makes a donation to a special fund (half going to TNR, half going to songbird rehab and research), people can attend a special event at the Smithsonian zoo to learn about big cats.<br />
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Essentially, it seems ridiculous to me that two organizations that care about animals can't find a way to come together and find ways to support each other and all animals.<br />
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Admittedly, this is part of a larger frustration with "opposing" sides refusing to associate with or listen to each other. Imagine what could happen if good, small breeders stood with the HSUS and started supporting bans against puppy mills? If Peta listened to small farmers and found ways to improve the lives of animals on farms? As I said <a href="http://www.blogger.com/%20%20http://capitalanimals.blogspot.com/2008/10/lets-get-along.html">before</a>, if animals can come together, why can't we?Bethanyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10863027065920743028noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4647799817628710326.post-63055588979027422742011-03-17T16:02:00.000-04:002011-03-17T16:02:17.740-04:00St Paddy's DayMost people today will have at least a beer or two. I'd say the majority will have far more than two. If you're one of those, please take my challenge to donate at least the cost of two beers to your favorite group helping in Japan.<br />
<a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_907961626"><br />
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<a href="https://secure2.convio.net/aha/site/SPageServer?pagename=API_Form_Animals&donation_amount=other&custom_programs=japan&JServSessionIdr004=a2yaqyxyj5.app217a">American Humane's Red Star Group</a> and <a href="http://animalsindisasters.typepad.com/">WSPA </a>are both helping in Japan. In addition, <a href="http://japanearthquakeanimalrelief.chipin.com/japan-earthquake-animal-rescue-and-support">Japan Earthquake Animal Rescue and Support</a> has been doing some amazing work.<br />
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Do you think St Patrick would rather you get smashed tonight on green beer or that you help some suffering creatures? Thankfully, you don't have to choose and can do both if you want! Even if you don't believe in saints, give to the groups anyway.<br />
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By the way, if you want a touching story of survival, the kitties and people of Cat Island seem to have survived despite the worst fears! Here's a <a href="http://news.discovery.com/animals/japans-cat-island-survived-quake-needs-supplies-110315.html">Discovery article.</a>Bethanyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10863027065920743028noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4647799817628710326.post-36258443532706711662011-03-10T12:30:00.009-05:002011-03-10T12:30:01.855-05:00Save the Date! April 21, Meow Mixer!Very exciting personal news--I'll be taking the lead on Meow Mixers this kitten season for <a href="http://washhumane.org/">Washington Humane Society!</a> I'm both thrilled and terrified I'll make a cake of it. The first one is scheduled for Thursday, April 21 in the evening (likely 7-9 although the times aren't nailed down yet).<br />
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If you're in the DC area and thinking of adding a cat to your heart, please come! The events are open house style with snacks and soda so you can nibble while meeting great cats. There are usually both kittens and adult cats, although we've been known to focus on one side of the age spectrum depending on that Mixer's theme. One of my favorites was a Baby Shower Meow Mixer where mama cats had reduced adoption fees. We also did one with more senior kitties and gave a free cat bed out with adoption of senior cats. <br />
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I'm having a hard time keeping my brain from just staying in hyperfocus on the events. I've been debating themes, flyer and tweet ideas, blog posts, restaurants to approach for free snacks... The "good" side of my ADHD is coming out for this one!<br />
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My personal favorite flyer idea for the first event, although I'm worried it might be just due to my weird humor, is my boyfriend's idea of a grayscale, noir-style image and the words "They're coming..." with a small explanation below that kitten season is starting up and we'll be overloaded with cats and kittens so now is the time to come in and meet the first of the season's awesome litters. He wants these as postcards which I can easily envision, but I'm fairly sure that would be too expensive. I also received permission from Randall Munroe (awesome XKCD artist) to use his <a href="http://xkcd.com/231/">Cat Proximity comic</a> on a flyer (I think it'd be suitable for flyers at local dives and indie places). So I'll want to use that at some point. If you think any ideas I've mentioned are awful, please tell me! I have my first planning meeting the first week of April and hope to come to it with a full plan of theme, flyers, sample tweets, blog posts, possible partners, etc. Maybe we can do a small door prize or raffle (25c tickets? I want it to be really inexpensive) if I talk with my local (favorite, has shown tons of support for WHS, and just has amazing people!) pet supply shop, <a href="http://www.livingruff.com/">Living Ruff</a>.<br />
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I did make sure that one of my friends, an amazing volunteer who has been at the shelter longer than I have and has worked events in the past, would be available to help. I figure there's no shame in making sure I have support I know for the first event. I've helped with these events in the past and done quite a bit of work on them, but I've never fully taken the lead on a Meow Mixer before so I want to be sure I have support I know I can count on. <br />
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I hope all of you are doing well in your kitten season preparations. Also, if you observe Lent, many wishes for a blessed Lent. I didn't attend Ash Wednesday services but I did rub my forehead against an ash-colored kitty which counts in my mind.Bethanyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10863027065920743028noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4647799817628710326.post-43048886613764399382011-02-13T11:54:00.000-05:002011-02-13T11:54:09.716-05:00ChangesMy boyfriend used to work a job that was mainly evenings/nights which meant Toby had his company during the day when I was at work, and at night when I was home. Toby has always been a friendly cat but not a lap cat by any means. When we say that he's "cuddling" we mean that he's on the same piece of furniture as us, possibly touching us with a paw. More often than not, he'll sit a little distance away, keeping an eye on us. The other week he was spending a lot of time actually sitting against my legs purring and being within easy petting distance which I attributed to Toby knowing I needed extra comfort due to my anxiety.<br />
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This weekend Toby has been almost constantly near one of us. Sitting on our feet while we watched Monty Python and Cats 101. Curling up against my leg while I napped. Following my boyfriend to the couch and leaning against him while he was working. He did get up and move around during Bad Dog and he did insist on playing fetch for an hour, but otherwise Toby has been incredibly cuddly compared to his normal.<br />
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I'm not sure if it's because boyfriend changed jobs and is now on a schedule similar to mine so Toby hasn't had as much attention during the day as he was used to or if it's because I'm sick. Yes, the massive amounts of television watching and napping are because I'm fighting off yet another stupid nasty cold. My dad asked if Toby was avoiding me to stay healthy and I told him Toby was actually being really affectionate. Pretty sure from what I know of kitty URIs that the virus I've got likely won't infect him. I know that cats can get some versions of the flu bug though so happy I don't have that!<br />
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What do you think? Is Toby being more affectionate and cuddly because he's been lonely during the work week? Is it because he knows I'm cranky and sick? Or some combination of the two?<br />
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My first thought was that the apartment might be cold (he cuddles much more when it's cold in here!) but my boyfriend swears the temperature is normal, even to someone who isn't sick.<br />
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The cause is a mystery but I do appreciate the result of the sweet cuddly cat!<br />
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He's not 100% cuddly though, he did almost attack the tv during Bad Dog. Boyfriend suggested Toby wants to be famous.Bethanyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10863027065920743028noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4647799817628710326.post-54735597278912192582011-02-02T21:17:00.000-05:002011-02-02T21:17:52.267-05:00ADHD, Anxiety, and Animals, Oh My!You already know I have ADHD. Like most adult women with ADHD, the Hyperactive part of my ADHD expresses itself partially as anxiety. Unrelated to the ADHD I also have a condition called hyperekplexia (stiff baby syndrome for you medical folks) that results in me making little noises I call eeps that sound <a href="http://capitalanimals.blogspot.com/2009/04/animals-at-least-know-to-be-cute-if-not.html">like a baby panda hiccuping</a>. Technically I eep when I'm startled, but it works out to a correlation between rate and volume of eeps and my anxiety levels. However, because I have that whole ADHD-related anxiety thing, anxiety levels don't always relate to real world events for me. As I told my best friend the other day, I can rationally tell myself "Beth, that's a silly response. Everything is fine. There's no way Toby will figure out how to move the lock and escape into the hall, make it into the elevator, and run into the street in front of a car while you're at work" and yet the anxious part of my brain, fueled by ADHD hyperactivity turned inwards doesn't give two pennies for rational thought and just says "that's nice, but still, he's a smart kitty, he could!" and ignores reality.<br />
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What does any of this have to do with animals as this is a blog ostensibly about animals? Because animals are amazing for my anxiety and the mental illnesses of many people around the world. There are local and international organizations that organize visits from dogs, cats, and other pets to people who can benefit from the experience. <a href="http://www.petplace.com/cats/cats-a-calming-influence-on-people-with-high-blood-pressure/page1.aspx">Research has shown that petting cats</a> helps lower people's blood pressure, which can relieve feelings of stress. <br />
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For me there's definitely the physiological benefit of petting Toby being calming and soothing. A lot of it for me is that even if the things I'm worrying about happen (aside from any involving Toby hurting himself), Toby will still love me. Even when the crazy part of my brain can't listen to the rational side that says my fears are baseless, it can still recognize that Toby's love is in no way dependent on those things being untrue. Even if I wake up 40lbs heavier and get fired all in one day, Toby will still love me. I can believe in him, even when I can't believe in logic.<br />
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Last night when I was feeling particularly anxious (it's been a bit high the past week) he came over and curled against my leg while I watched Monty Python. The night before when I woke up from a nightmare, he climbed onto the bed and curled up next to me. He's not always the most cuddly cat, but he knows when I need extra affection and he makes it clear that he loves me. Toby, like all pets, has a lot to teach us about unconditional love. This evening he licked my hand when I went to pet him.<br />
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Even though I might bribe him into cuddles this evening with treats while I read, I'll still know he loves me. Even if he'd rather stay on the comfy nest of clothes he's created for himself.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyQ3yIwdGYLdgXSLeaGxR0G3K_gZJwtbvq_1d_N1a_uGfm_f2Z-GMio0pUEjDUT9pRxgWariJCdvYx8wsAilvLgvvcKK_Xb9AZuSySrMVprobKecBMAAIt2ox7In2LxvAI90LlXV5tlat-/s1600/Toby+on+chair+from+above.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyQ3yIwdGYLdgXSLeaGxR0G3K_gZJwtbvq_1d_N1a_uGfm_f2Z-GMio0pUEjDUT9pRxgWariJCdvYx8wsAilvLgvvcKK_Xb9AZuSySrMVprobKecBMAAIt2ox7In2LxvAI90LlXV5tlat-/s640/Toby+on+chair+from+above.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />
I did warn that Clean All the Things (named for <a href="http://hyperboleandahalf.blogspot.com/2010/06/this-is-why-ill-never-be-adult.html">Allie Bosch's amazing Hyperbole and a Half strip</a>) didn't quite work this weekend...<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Note: My inclusion of the personal here was partially because we often think of mental illness without thinking of the people they affect and so hold stereotypes that anxious people are irrational cowards (I am quite logical and have had people consider me brave) or that ADHD people are irresponsible (Many people have found me to be quite responsible). More importantly for me, "coming out" like this on the internet where it might be seen by someone feeling alone with her mental illness is my tribute to a beloved friend who passed away two weeks ago. He was incredibly open and honest about having been on medication for depression since he was in high school and advocated for acceptance while breaking stereotypes about those with mental illnesses. His openness helped me a great deal in coming to terms with my own mental state and if my openness can help one person the way he helped so many, it will be a fitting tribute. He also loved animals and Monty Python.</span>Bethanyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10863027065920743028noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4647799817628710326.post-75368177261674201572011-01-30T15:33:00.002-05:002011-01-30T15:33:50.750-05:00Another Toby Photo<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWP2y9YRAxhnGUBZisMlcaOMVo3ELDuThLPIZlXFB44hU6cS5zwjkrsFNkVmdd8-iJHcz9LR-AGDUPP6hj2QMRk2O9-CymlhiawcAbrCL0zWHcCzz4dVElyGDHsF_4PXUIki2gG9eeK5Uw/s1600/Toby+in+WHBag.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWP2y9YRAxhnGUBZisMlcaOMVo3ELDuThLPIZlXFB44hU6cS5zwjkrsFNkVmdd8-iJHcz9LR-AGDUPP6hj2QMRk2O9-CymlhiawcAbrCL0zWHcCzz4dVElyGDHsF_4PXUIki2gG9eeK5Uw/s320/Toby+in+WHBag.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Bethanyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10863027065920743028noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4647799817628710326.post-25631155300212317472011-01-30T14:07:00.001-05:002011-01-30T18:17:58.921-05:00Why I'm slow at cleaning<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid_h2UBMiQJNeAeHpz7NesPIGuBUyC_hWCDQJk_owFy_5HqQFEBvNFWcoa8qhZ-6i2Yysxp7lmxJx1hMh7_YdRmDQvvD3D69HDqXOtzdmlXnftqsEHY5soIpH-svixAdtoFxTfxdSbyWw_/s1600/Toby+in+tv+stand.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid_h2UBMiQJNeAeHpz7NesPIGuBUyC_hWCDQJk_owFy_5HqQFEBvNFWcoa8qhZ-6i2Yysxp7lmxJx1hMh7_YdRmDQvvD3D69HDqXOtzdmlXnftqsEHY5soIpH-svixAdtoFxTfxdSbyWw_/s320/Toby+in+tv+stand.JPG" width="240" /></a>Aside from being easily distracted/overwhelmed by clutter due to my ADHD brain, Toby always gets extra cute and affectionate when I clean. So many flank rubs today!<br />
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Plus, he figured out how to bat open the doors to our dvd storage!<br />
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I keep trying to tell him that fetch will be more fun once I declutter and he has more room to run around, but I think he just sees me opening up spaces for him to explore and sitting on the ground as invitations to flank rub and head butt.Bethanyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10863027065920743028noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4647799817628710326.post-22986997925786484792011-01-13T09:00:00.001-05:002011-01-13T09:00:05.124-05:00Disgrace at UC's Veterinary SchoolYou may have figured out from previous posts that referenced Jezebel that I'm a bit of a feminist. I shockingly think that, along with animals deserving decent lives, that people of any sex are equal--male, female, transgender, hermaphrodite--your genitalia do not affect your worth.<br />
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I also have a great deal of respect for veterinarians.I love mine and call whenever Toby has an issue. I firmly believe that before starting training for an issue, one should get a clean bill of health and talk about problems with your vet. I care about our vets and care that they are educated well and receive an accurate record of their performance at school so that their hiring decisions can be made more accurately.<br />
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How are these two related? Because I am completely outraged by what happened recently at UC Davies Vet School. <a href="http://scienceblogs.com/isisthescientist/2011/01/that_b_on_your_transcript_is_f.php">Dr. Isis of Science Blogs</a> covers it in full detail that you should read. I'll summarize it below.<br />
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Essentially, Dr Isis received an email that a third year student recently gave birth. One of her professors, Dr Feldman, (yes, male) had the class presidents send an email around about this. Not to collect gifts or well-wishes as the birth announcements at my small office do. No. So that students could vote on how Dr. Feldman should handle the woman's grade for the class.<br />
"<i>a) automatic A final grade<br />
b) automatic B final grade<br />
c) automatic C final grade<br />
d) graded the same as everyone else: best 6 quiz scores out of a possible 7 quiz scores (each quiz only given only once in class with no repeats)<br />
e) just take a % of quiz scores (for example: your classmate takes 4 quizzes, averages 9/10 points = 90% = A)<br />
f) give that student a single final exam at the end of the quarter (however this option is only available to this one student, all others are graded on the best 6 quiz scores and the % that results)"</i> <br />
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Despite that there were already clear options for him to follow laid out by UC Davies for students who might have to miss multiple classes (ok, for things like being sick, but are we really supposed to think that illness is ok but reproduction isn't? I know they're learning to encourage spaying/neutering but that's of pets, not people!). Also, the student in question hasn't even missed class or requested to miss class yet!<br />
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So--her professor, instead of sitting down with her to form a plan for if she misses class due to bringing life into this crazy, messed up world, decided to alert the entire third year class to her newborn (which seems awfully lacking in respect for privacy) and then decided to present those students (who are depending on being in the top percentile of their class and so have every self-interest in not helping a fellow student out) with the option of just arbitrarily deciding that this woman gets a C as her final grade?<br />
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I'm just completely appalled and angry. Really angry.<br />
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Dr. Isis is calling for people to contact the chancellor of UC Davies about Dr. Feldman's highly inappropriate conduct. The address for that is http://chancellor.ucdavis.edu/contact.php I already sent a note. I won't tell you how to act, but if you're as appalled as I am, please consider sending one as well.<br />
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It's 2011. How does a vaguely intelligent person even think this is ok and walk away without a reprimand from his higher ups? I told the chancellor that I hope for a full apology made to the student.Bethanyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10863027065920743028noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4647799817628710326.post-39538808473530951982011-01-09T09:35:00.007-05:002011-01-09T23:26:34.680-05:00Kong questionJust for a quick survey of readers, please leave a comment whether you knew a Kong was an awesome interactive dog toy without clicking on the link or not. Jarrod had no clue what they were and thought I made up the word so I added a link to explain it.<br />
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No wrong answers, just curious!Bethanyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10863027065920743028noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4647799817628710326.post-51668769442766967832011-01-08T19:41:00.004-05:002011-01-09T23:23:43.284-05:00A Dog and His Man Save NeighborI came across a story on Jezebel tonight that I just have to share. It starts off bad but it gets better, I promise.<br />
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On Thursday, a girl started screaming after being attacked in her yard. Agustin Zamora Jr heard the cries and ran outside, calling for his Great Dane, Scooby, to follow. They, with two other men, chased the attacker off into an alley where the man, fearful of the large dog's deep barks, was held until police arrived to arrest him.<br />
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I really hope that dog gets some awesome <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Kong-Classic-Dog-Toy-Large/dp/B0002AR0I8?ie=UTF8&tag=capital0f-20&link_code=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969" target="_blank">Kongs </a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=capital0f-20&l=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=B0002AR0I8" style="border: medium none ! important; margin: 0px ! important; padding: 0px ! important;" width="1" />for his part in the heroic rescue. First, it was impressive that multiple people responded to the screams and tried to help. Many people for hundreds of years haven't responded to screaming because they assume other people have heard the screams and are already responding. This is known as <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Murder_of_Kitty_Genovese">Genovese syndrome</a> or the bystander effect. It's really disturbing to think about.<br />
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I first came upon the idea in a freshman philosophy class where we read Rousseau talking about a philosopher who ignored the screams out his window. It struck with me to the point where, as a junior, I insisted on seeing why I had heard a girl scream outside in the winter (it turned out she was drunk, which made my friend even more angry as he'd been in favor of ignoring any screams one heard). I thought of it again last year when a friend told me about Genovese syndrome after I was stuck on how no one had even seemed to notice when a homeless man hit me on my way to work, despite there being at least a dozen people around who had to have seen (and heard!) the whack when he struck my face. Knowing that it was normal for people to ignore bad things happened sucked, but it at least made me feel better than "those people all thought I <i>deserved</i> to be hit!" which was where my freaked-out mind had gone.<br />
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To think that someone not only responded to someone else's screams, but had the foresight to call his dog along to help hold the intruder? Just amazes me. That guy is a hero and his dog is, too.<br />
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For more information:<br />
<a href="http://jezebel.com/5728520/dog-and-his-owner-save-girl-from-sex-attack">Jezebel article where commenters have some awesome stories about animals protecting them (I was bawling with happy tears after scrolling through, just to warn you)</a><br />
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<a href="http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/ct-met-great-dane-rescue-20110107,0,2851375.story?track=rss">Chicago Tribune Article about the dog and the attack</a><br />
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Do you have any stories of animals protecting you or alerting you to danger?<br />
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Thankfully Toby hasn't had to do much although he did hiss at the door when two (drunk) guys tried to come into the apartment. I think they thought it was their apartment from their response when the door didn't open! He also has been known to run at the wall between my loud, rude neighbor's apartment and mine and act as though he's trying to attack the wall. Very happy if that's all he's ever called to do in defense of me!Bethanyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10863027065920743028noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4647799817628710326.post-10115823028359746182011-01-01T21:56:00.000-05:002011-01-01T21:56:52.654-05:00Cuteness is the way to start the new year<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnGFnrAoBfJ9SSOcA87Xa_fWYeCDzAQrI28cvo6qf9yZ5Ewd3vag8p8Rzubp1deYrg2kldqmUKHnyO6ZJPlCt2NiByKNvVARzVmpdZLwdmVLgl8YmuG6-fVVngZFLxcCCNshORx760o_JO/s1600/Tobyinshoebox.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnGFnrAoBfJ9SSOcA87Xa_fWYeCDzAQrI28cvo6qf9yZ5Ewd3vag8p8Rzubp1deYrg2kldqmUKHnyO6ZJPlCt2NiByKNvVARzVmpdZLwdmVLgl8YmuG6-fVVngZFLxcCCNshORx760o_JO/s320/Tobyinshoebox.JPG" width="240" /></a>In the midst of my massive cleaning for the new year, Toby has decided to supervise. <br />
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Yes, that is a shoebox top that he's managed to climb into. Apparently Toby wants to be sure I don't clear too much from the apartment!Bethanyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10863027065920743028noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4647799817628710326.post-321197864675087932010-12-22T12:30:00.001-05:002010-12-22T12:34:57.294-05:00Pet SittersI have a neighbor and a friend who regularly take care of Toby when my boyfriend and I are out of town. Both have declined money in the past so for one I make pie or cookies (I make a killer blueberry pie) and for Christmas we're giving him a gift certificate to the restaurant where we know he often eats lunch. We didn't stalk him, it's the restaurant where my boyfriend works. We decided it would be too creepy to make it for exactly the cost of his usual lunch.<br />
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For the other, we load up the fridge with specialty beer and he drinks a bottle each time he visits Toby while playing with him and providing company for the cat. For Christmas he's getting an awesome specialty beer mug for his personal bar.<br />
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I used to pet sit for a friend of my sisters and she paid me in gift cards to my favorite pet shop and complete set of LSAT books when my boyfriend was getting ready to take the test. <br />
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Now that it's the holidays and many people are getting ready to travel, I'm wondering if non-money is actually common or if I just hang out with a group of people more inclined to barter/trade than to pay. Any thoughts?Bethanyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10863027065920743028noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4647799817628710326.post-70256420011033230962010-12-17T15:32:00.000-05:002010-12-17T15:32:54.603-05:00Best part of working at homeThe heat is broken at my office today so I'm working from home. I was just starting to get annoyed with an excel sheet (I love the program, but often have to check formatting formulas) when I heard a commotion to my left.<br />
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I turned and there was Toby.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPjnXx_7quVoXciyEn0St4Yymqq5nD92dTvLuVX3ZW5RqsqHE_UNwAafIjcn-xO1khkxNtDtD53377HLNUJHSTATzeQnxIcgh-JsSRoDEV11dz8-dQkYKgH2XnfQWkXckQnsidwzOOwHqa/s1600/Toby+in+bag.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPjnXx_7quVoXciyEn0St4Yymqq5nD92dTvLuVX3ZW5RqsqHE_UNwAafIjcn-xO1khkxNtDtD53377HLNUJHSTATzeQnxIcgh-JsSRoDEV11dz8-dQkYKgH2XnfQWkXckQnsidwzOOwHqa/s320/Toby+in+bag.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><br />
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Ignore the mass of gray fur that collected along the baseboard. I swear, I vacuum. That's just his favorite spot to roll and rub off his shedding fur.<br />
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Hope your Friday is just as full of joy as a cat in a bag playing with his favorite rattle ball.Bethanyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10863027065920743028noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4647799817628710326.post-83947705562170932452010-12-15T14:30:00.001-05:002010-12-15T14:11:35.291-05:00First Ever Film By CatsDeparting from the holiday theme, I know I'm late on this, but I finally saw the Purina "Cat Diaries" today and it melted my heart with happiness.<br />
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We're still in the midst of a nasty cold snap in DC right now, but this warmed my heart.<br />
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Don't forget, with the cold snap, make sure to call your local animal control if you see a pet left in the cold. <a href="http://washhumane.typepad.com/blog/2010/12/keep-your-pets-indoors.html">WHS</a> listed a warning last night. Be careful out there! Also, if there's ice near you, remember to clean your dog's paws off when you come in--various de-icers can be uncomfortable or even poisonous for dogs so make sure you're the one cleaning it off and not your dog's tongue!<br />
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Stay warm!!Bethanyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10863027065920743028noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4647799817628710326.post-80142740984277533922010-12-14T10:00:00.001-05:002010-12-14T10:00:02.156-05:00Leaping Bunny Reminder!Don't forget that many animal lovers, even those who aren't vegetarian, avoid products that have been tested on animals. That's not a major issue with books, but if you're trying to pamper the hands of an animal-loving teacher with superb lotion or give a relaxing spa set to your stressed out wife, make sure to check <a href="http://www.leapingbunny.org/shopping.php">Leaping Bunny</a> to see if the manufacturer tests their products on animals. <br />
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Leaping Bunny admits that not every cruelty-free product is in their database, but it's fairly extensive. Another option is to browse manufacturer websites. Many companies have pages of information on their alternative testing methods. Make sure you're not fooled by green washing though. Many products that appear green (Herbal Essences, I'm looking at you!) aren't actually green or cruelty free.<br />
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That hand lotion would also be appreciated by many shelter workers. It's good practice to wash one's hands or disinfect between animals and that can dry out skin fast. I'll give a recommendation to <a href="http://www.thebodyshop-usa.com/hand-care-products/prod5950023">The Body Shop's Hemp Hand Protector</a>. It has a bit of an odd scent, but it feels amazing. Also, for your information, check out <a href="http://www.thebodyshop-usa.com/beauty/against-animal-testing">The Body Shop's statement against animal testing. </a>I will freely admit a soft spot for this company. They were the first store I shopped at where I didn't feel the need to check the ingredients of every product but could actually still afford a lot of the products!Bethanyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10863027065920743028noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4647799817628710326.post-50553003544300204672010-12-13T09:35:00.001-05:002010-12-13T00:02:18.353-05:00Three Gift Ideas for Animal Lovers (and an Eggnog Complaint)I brought my first eggnog of the season home a week or so ago and have had the devil of a time keeping glasses of it away from Toby.. I keep turning my back for a second only to find his entire head in my empty glass, frantically licking up the remains of the eggnog. He is on a small laxative at the moment so I'm not going to fret too much over him getting a few occasional licks, but it's worse than whipped cream (another favorite) to keep him out of it. Was curious if anyone else had that problem or if Toby is just extra special and full of holiday mischief. I promise, it's nonalcoholic (Organic Valley Eggnog actually--insanely delicious). If he was fine after diving headfirst into an empty mocha frappe (I swear, I just turned to say hello to my boyfriend before finding that Toby had knocked off the lid and stuck his face in), I trust Toby will be fine with a few licks of eggnog.<br />
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1. For Your Favorite Pet Parent: Interactive Toys<br />
Kongs, Fling-ama-string, Batting Practice mouse, Treat Puzzle Boxes<br />
I love my catnip mice (and so does Toby) and we love our Zig-n-Zag ball so those are fine gifts, but being able to turn on the Fling-ama-string while I'm eating (anything other than eggnog) so Toby is distracted is amazing. I love turning it on when Toby feels playful but I have a migraine, or I'm cooking, or doing yoga (please say your cats also love to be affectionate when you're trying to hold a plank pose, please?), or anything where I want Toby distracted. My brother gave me one for my birthday (from <a href="http://www.aspcaonlinestore.com/?ProspectID=1DB6F192FE7B4530B3902A5662AE813F&utm_campaign=ASPCA_Store+2010&utm_source=P_139_DEF&utm_medium=ASPCA_Website%3AASPCAORG_NAV_STORE&utm_content=ASPCA.org+Nav+Store">the ASPCA</a> so bonus points of awesomeness!) and it's the coolest toy ever. It does require batteries and I do prefer to be present while he's using it, even if I'm not actively watching (I do watch often though, he's adorable with the pouncing). The company does suggest supervision in case of anything getting tangled or loose but we haven't had any major issues with it other than forgetting to change the batteries once.<br />
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I also love the Batting Practice Mouse my brother gave me (also from the ASPCA). It's a little squishy mouse that makes an electronic squeak when batted. The mouse hangs on elastic and string from a plastic "branch" that sits over the top of a door. The branch is easily detachable from the door so I can hide the mouse if Toby is playing at 3am. The branch can be knocked off or the mouse knocked into an unreachable position (mine is near some shelves so the mouse gets stuck sometimes) but the actual playing does not require supervision. Before Thanksgiving I took the mouse down for a week or so then put it up as we were leaving. Our cat sitter found the mouse happily played with every day he came. I felt better about Toby being occupied while we were gone.<br />
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Kongs and Puzzle Treat boxes<br />
Kongs are the traditional cone shaped rubber toys into which a person places peanut butter, kibble, and anything else you want your dog to slowly eat. The dog then licks into the kong and works to get the food out. This keeps the dog happy and can be used for peace during mealtime (if you can't tell, I'm a huge fan of distraction) and to keep a dog occupied and entertained while his parent is out of the home.<br />
There are also puzzle treat boxes for dogs where the dog needs to figure out a puzzle in order to get the treat. I've seen some people fill the boxes with the dog's kibble breakfast as a way to make the meal last and also as a way to entertain the dog without feeding too many treats.<br />
I use a food ball for Toby that operates on a similar principle. His portion of dry food (that which isn't used as sprinkles on his wet food--my boyfriend spoils my cat) is put in a ball that Toby then knocks around. As Toby bats the ball, kibble falls out and he's able to eat. It makes meals last longer and keeps him occupied.<br />
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Most pet parents worry about their pets being bored, if you can help soothe your friend's mind about that, it's a wonderful gift. Plus, a lot of the toys are really entertaining to see being used. I keep trying to get video of Toby using my birthday gifts but he stops playing when he sees the cameraphone.<br />
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2. The Animal Lover Without a Pet--Sponsor a Pet!<br />
Do Not Give a Pet!!!<br />
Pets are personal and should never be given as gifts. Even people who love animals can have valid reasons for not wanting a pet at this point in their lives. <br />
A better alternative? Sponsor a pet at their local shelter and give a small stuffed animal who looks similar. Depending on your shelter and personal budget, you might need to go in on the sponsorship with a friend, but it's an amazing gift.<br />
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3. The Animal Lover Who Also Loves Books--Pet Themed Books<br />
If your friend is cool with used books (my family and friends usually indicate a preference for them) this can be a really inexpensive gift that's still a lot of fun. If new books are preferred, Borders offers a lot of email discounts (ranging from 20-33-40% off) that can be printed off and brought in for browsing. <br />
Head to the section with your friend's favorite genre and find several books where an animal seems important or is on the cover. <a href="http://capitalanimals.blogspot.com/2010/06/just-because-toby-cant-read-doesnt-mean.html">This post</a> shows four of my favorite romance books featuring animals (and one of my favorite mysteries as well). If you want other genre suggestions, just leave a note in the comments. If I can't provide an answer (or the other commenters don't!). The only genre I really avoid is suspense but I have family members who love it and will provide suggestions if need be. I just finished Mercedes Lackey's <i>The Serpent's Shadow</i> and was reminded of how well she uses animals. The 'pets' in that books are integral to the plot and the book is a great choice for fantasy fans who also enjoy historical fiction.<br />
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Any other types of animal-loving friends about whom you're stuck for gift ideas? Just let me know. I love gift finding.Bethanyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10863027065920743028noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4647799817628710326.post-13627308619733096682010-12-04T00:12:00.000-05:002010-12-04T00:12:49.465-05:00All Healthy!Finally went in for a full day of work on Friday. So grateful that my company allows us to work remotely. I was all set to go in tomorrow afternoon, but then Toby had a tablespoon or so of blood in his litter box. I freaked, called the vet for advice, and she said that she wanted to see him that afternoon.<br />
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Thankfully, he's healthy. She checked his glands while I experienced the oddness of having someone tell me to stand on the other side of the room because they don't want Toby associating me with that experience, and everything seemed fine. She gave me a preliminary diagnosis that he just has a sensitive colon and the extra treats I'd been giving him while I was sick (I had to bribe him to ignore the menthol smell somehow!) had just upset his system. She suggested a small amount of a gentle laxative and said she'd call with the lab results of the sample I'd brought in.<br />
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She called today to say the sample was clean!!!<br />
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Toby has been adorable destructive last night and this evening and everything seems good. so I am incredibly relieved.<br />
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After looking over my budget for this month and the bill for the vet services--it's a darn good thing he's adorable. Signed over half my restaurant budget into the Pets column today. *sigh* the things we do for our loved ones.Bethanyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10863027065920743028noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4647799817628710326.post-26853387550272404942010-12-01T17:18:00.002-05:002010-12-01T17:18:48.473-05:00Slight DelayThe rest of the guide will be posted once I recover from a nasty cold and trust myself to write coherent sentences.<br />
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Many apologies.Bethanyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10863027065920743028noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4647799817628710326.post-10865607239161474912010-11-29T08:30:00.002-05:002010-11-29T08:30:00.111-05:00It's Advent!Let's cover my horribly long absence by stating that I had some personal stuff to take care of that meant my internet time has been severely limited. I've been reading only my most favorite blogs and even commenting on those only in batches while mostly lurking. I'd apologize, but I think it's understood that people sometimes need breaks from these things when life gets crazy. Everything is good now though and things are getting under control and less hectic.<br />
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I've also started Christmas shopping. I'm a list person. It helps keep me under budget, but it also helps me remember ethical constraints for my friends.One friend is so fed up with Palestine/Israel that she won't buy anything that is made with disputed resources (such as Ahava products and most other "Dead Sea" products). Another feels strongly about independent shops and would rather a book from an independent second hand shop than a Borders. It's easy for me to remember that about my friends and adjust my shopping accordingly.<br />
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But what about your animal loving friends? We're a pretty diverse group--some people do a whole vegan lifestyle, others love cats and dogs but that's the extent, and many of us are somewhere in between. Plus, even if you know your friend is vegan or some form of vegetarian, it's hard to remember what that can entail. One of my friends is an amazing cook and has a great cooking blog--unfortunately one of her recipes labled vegetarian uses traditional gelatin which isn't. So in the tradition of the "Examination of Conscience" guides my Catholic grade school supplied, this week is devoted to examining your gifts for animal-loving friends. If you have any specific questions, feel free to ask and I'll do my best to answer. Otherwise, I'll provide a general overview with some specific don'ts and some suggestions for if you're stuck. <br />
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Feel free to consider this a guide for Solstice, New Years, or Hanukah shopping if you prefer. Or Festivus. Or you don't celebrate anything now but might be buying birthday gifts in the future.<br />
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Also, please realize that just because you aren't opposed to every item I list, does not mean I consider you any less of an animal lover. I'm, what I consider a "Conscientious Dairy- and Egg-Consuming Pescatarian." I'm still figuring out exactly what I think about certain issues and the vast majority of animal rights is a bit gray and murky for most of us. That's okay, in my mind, so long as we still try to think about it and don't just ignore it all. Please feel free to disagree with me. I'm not easily offended. Just don't say that you think God wants us to eat meat. You'll get a digital finger flick. <br />
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My general view on animal rights and animal issues is that animals need to be respected as animals and as just as much a part of the Earth as we are. I am not opposed to symbiotic relationships where both species benefit. I like to think that Toby benefits as much from my loving are as I do from his antics and affection. I'm not opposed to working animals, so long as those animals are treated in a respectful manner and allowed to live somewhat natural lives. I try not to consume or use products from animals where the animals suffered. Obviously, suffering is somewhat subjective. I consider factory farming to be suffering. I consider it wrong to kill and eat animals who are at least as smart as dogs and cats (a line needed to be drawn somewhere, for me it's there). I'm still learning and my views are subject to change. I'm not a saint and I still get strong cravings for greasy cheeseburgers and blts. I do not look down on anyone who chooses to eat meat but I do rejoice when people think about their choices and choose to support farmers who treat their animals well before death or choose to consumer less meat than before.<br />
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What if you are an animal-loving recipient of a gift that goes against your ethical grain? Your response is dictated by your own conscience but my plan, if that happens, is to say thank you and then quietly donate the gift. Even if you're given fur, HSUS has a program where donated furs are used to help orphaned and injured bears. I tend to think that people are best won over by example, not by shouting or rudeness. I would never tell my boyfriend that he's not allowed to eat meat or bring it into the apartment, but I almost melted when he told his dad that he was trying to move away from ham, pork, and bacon because of how smart pigs are. I never set out to change my boyfriend's mind, but I know that he looked through vegetarian starter kits I had out when I was first switching and that he listens to me when I talk about animal issues. I know I also started lessening my animal-consumption after exposure to low-key, non-evangelical vegetarians and vegans. People who had yelled about animal consumption never made an impact on me. Instead, I was converted by seeing that smart, successful veggies were happy to talk about the issues or send me to sites when I expressed curiosity. They didn't act like I needed to convert or be evil, but just made it clear that they would love to help me inform myself if I so chose.<br />
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If your conscience tells you to scream at the gift-giver "don't you know who I am?" well, if it's your grandmother I'll pretend I've never heard of you even on the internet. If it's your boyfriend who knows you're vegan and would never use an Omaha steak subscription, I'll assist you in dumping a bucket of herbal tea on his head.Bethanyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10863027065920743028noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4647799817628710326.post-23778257865700316502010-10-21T18:32:00.010-04:002010-10-21T18:32:00.163-04:00HousekeepingAfter a great deal of thought, I'm going to spend some time this weekend getting posts ready and cleaning up Capital Animals so that I can post on a more regular schedule with better content in the future. If you have any feedback (criticism, compliment, or complaints are all welcome! Well, within reason.) I'd love to hear it so I can work on making this a better blog. It will still be driven primarily by what I think/want to write about (I'm selfish that way) but if there's something you've loved and want to see more of or hate and want to never see again, that'd be good to know. Photos of Toby will still continue. Just to let you know. He's adorable.<br />
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If there are no compliments I'll assume you're super happy with everything the way it is, have no advice, and want Toby to rule Earth.Bethanyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10863027065920743028noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4647799817628710326.post-28125471862582368972010-10-15T09:35:00.002-04:002010-10-15T11:12:47.709-04:00Welcome You Back with Electronica CatsI've been absent as of late partially because of work and partially because I was busy outside of work. Last week was my birthday and amongst other awesome times and gifts, my brother gave me amazing cat toys that amuse Toby (and thus me, too) for hours on end.<br />
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My brother is pretty awesome. I'm hoping once I get out to visit him in El Paso that can maybe score a visit to the border patrol dogs who apparently are in high demand and just as awesome in real life as they seem via news stories. He also likes electronic music, from what I understand (I'm kind of awful at keeping up with people's music tastes).<br />
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So, in honor of him and tomorrow's National Feral Cat Day:<br />
Cats playing electronica<br />
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Happy Friday.Bethanyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10863027065920743028noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4647799817628710326.post-7966721358217844952010-09-24T09:30:00.000-04:002010-09-24T14:51:25.787-04:00Family, pets, and feral populationsIn Russia there are<a href="http://www.digitaljournal.com/article/277599"> dogs that have figured out how to use the subway system</a> to travel to locations with better food. From what I can tell, most Russians aren't particularly bothered. The article there calls them stray, but I've seen them also referred to as feral dogs the way that we refer to feral cats in the US.<br />
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In the US, <a href="http://www.google.com/hostednews/ap/article/ALeqM5j96YLum-LHJDA5DT1skwQ8CR2zngD9I84AAO1">30% of Americans consider pets</a> family but Trap, Neuter Return (TNR) groups, such as <a href="http://www.alleycat.org/NetCommunity/Page.aspx?pid=191">Alley Cat Allies, </a>always have a tough sell convincing people not to just poison feral cat colonies. <br />
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I feel like these are related somehow but I'm not sure. Maybe because so many Americans do have a familial relationship with their pets, it's more difficult for us to accept feral cat colonies? I don't have an answer yet but I want to explore and find one.<br />
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In England, it's considered best for cats to be outdoor animals or at least only confined inside at night. In the US we build giant catios (patios for cats) to keep our kitties entertained while also safe and secure, as we point to figures showing that indoor cats live significantly longer. We round up strays and bring them to shelters and seem certain that this is the way to handle things.<br />
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In Italy, we saw a ton of freely roaming dogs and cats. The winery where we stayed fed and cared for a dog and a cat that had shown up in the past and hung around, but they weren't allowed inside the buildings because that would be considered dirty.<br />
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I do volunteer at an open access shelter and my gut reaction is that it's better not to let strays wander all over the city. I also support TNR and not taking feral cats into a shelter where they will likely end up euthanized or miserable. In the southern US, a far smaller percentage of pets are fixed than in the northeastern US. I want to know why.<br />
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Yes, part of me wants to know why the differences are there because I think that trying to change people's behavior (i.e. get more people to spay/neuter) without first understanding the reason for that behavior is doomed to failure. A large part of it is simply a desire to know more and explore.<br />
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A cat-like curiosity if you will.Bethanyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10863027065920743028noreply@blogger.com1