It's May, a month full of flowers after April's showers!
This month we will be talking about plants and your pets, learn about two of Mexico's most famous breeds, the best way to celebrate Cinco de Mayo with your critters, Mothers Day, and honor the fallen among our brave Military animals. Meet the adoptable dog of the month up for adoption and also get to know a recently official Sanctuary Cat Blizzard, her story, how she got her status, and have a chance to follow her recovery back to health. Check out the new growing section of the website dedicated to information on Training, Pet Health, Safety, and more under our FAQ. Lastly, we congratulate Asuma Saratobi, a loyal Service Dog, a happy retirement. In his honor we've made the commitment to begin a page dedicated to Service Animals. Don't forget, if we don't have the type of pet that you want to shower with affection and causes your heart bloom with joy, there are thousands of pets in rescues and shelters just waiting for someone and that someone could be you! All our best to you and yours. Happy May! - ALPRAS Team Members |
Cinco de Mayo in Latin America, Spanish for "Fifth of May") is an annual celebration held on May 5. The date is observed to commemorate the Mexican Army's victory over the French Empire at the Battle of Puebla, on May 5, 1862, under the leadership of General Ignacio Zaragoza. In the United States, Cinco de Mayo has taken on a significance beyond that in Mexico. More popularly celebrated in the United States than Mexico, the date has become associated with the celebration of Mexican-American culture. In Mexico, the commemoration of the battle continues to be mostly ceremonial, such as through military parades or battle reenactments. |
The modern American focus on that day first started in California in 1863 in response to the resistance to French rule in Mexico. Far up in the gold country town of Columbia (now Columbia State Park), Mexican miners were so overjoyed at the news that they spontaneously fired off rifle shots and fireworks, sang patriotic songs and made impromptu speeches. |
To celebrate, many display Cinco de Mayo banners while school districts hold special events to educate students about its historical significance. Special events and celebrations highlight Mexican culture, especially in its music and regional dancing.Examples include: baile folklórico and mariachi demonstrations held annually at the Plaza del Pueblo de Los Ángeles, near Olvera Street. |
In Puebla, historical reenactments, parades, and meals take place to commemorate the Battle of Puebla. Parade participants dress as French and Mexican soldiers to reenact the battle. Every year the city also hosts the Festival Internacional de Puebla, which gathers national and international artists, traditional musicians and dancers as well as the Festival Internacional del Mole, with an emphasis on the city's iconic mole poblano.
Events tied to Cinco de Mayo also occur outside Mexico and the United States. Canada, the Cayman Islands, Jamaica, Australia, London, New Zealand, South Africa,Nigeria, Paris and Japan. As in the United States, celebrations elsewhere also emphasize Mexican cuisine, culture and music. |
So whats a good way to Celebrate Cinco de Mayo for and/or with my pets?
Cats in Mexico could use some help. Just like in the United States, Mexico's cats suffer misinformation and less attention than dogs. A lack of education has many areas of Mexico overrun with feral cats, and just like in the states, they become considered a nuisance like vermin and can be destroyed.
“Education is changing this (in Mexico), particularly with younger people,” adds Lola Cortina of San Miguel de Allende, where she founded a sanctuary for cats, Sancuario Feline Rey Ashoka, a no-kill facility. She regularly appears on local radio informing cat owners about needed veterinary care, behavior issues and busting myths along the way. We can help change things for cats both here in the US and in Mexico. So save one one of your Cinco de Mayo drinks for the cats of Mexico and donate a few bucks to an organization dedicated to helping cats find homes and become loved and important family members. You can also donate to low cost Spay/Neuter programs, Cat Sanctuaries, or support a Feral Cat Colony. These worthy causes are definitely something to raise your glass to! Viva los Gatos!!! |
Chihuahua |
Xoloitzcuintli |
The Chihuahuai (pronounced Chee-wa-wa) is the smallest breed of dog and is named after the state of Chihuahua, Mexico. Chihuahuas come in a wide variety of colors, and two coat lengths. Although 'varieties' of Apple Head, Pear Head, and Deer Head Chihuahuas exist, most kennel clubs only recognize the standard Apple Head and diminutive size (4-6 lbs and 6-10 in) as a 'true' Chihuahua. The term 'Teacup' was only brought about by sellers to attract buyers and possibly the different head types as well. Regardless, Chihuahuas are considered the smallest breed of dog with a huge personality!
Chihuahuas are believed to be the descendants of the Techichi. A small South American dog that was bred by the Toltec civilization. During the Mesoamerican period (900-1168 CE.) The Techichi was bred for hunting, (yes, hunting!), companionship, food, and even for possessing of supernatural powers with the ability to see the future. Chihuahuas were also used as living hot-water bottles during illness or injury. Some believe this practice is where the idea of pain being transferred to animals from humans originated. This gave way to rituals such as burning the deceased with the dogs to exonerate the deceased human's sins and guide their owner in the underworld. There is some solid evidence of the Chihuahua being a direct descendant from the Techichi. Wheeled dog toys that were found at in Veracruz, Mexico date back to 100 AD and are believed to depict both apple head and deer head varieties of the Techichi. Effigy pots and sculptures were found in ancient burial shafts in Colima, Mexico dating back to 300 BC. These pots and sculptures depict a dog strikingly similar to the current day Chihuahua. Drawings found in the ruins of Chichen Itza on the Yucatan Peninsula that date back to the 5th century AD. DNA tests have shown that at least 70% of the present day Chihuahua is linked to the Techihchi with 30% being of an unknown origin. May have speculated what breeds may have joined in to create the modern day Chihuahua. This includes the Chinese Crested (who may have come with the Conquistadors) and the ancient Mexican breed Xoloitzcuintli. The Chihuahua is a fun little breed of dog who are often considered to have a 'Napoleon Complex'. They tend to be bossy with other dogs and have a 'clannish' mindset meaning they actually prefer the company of other Chihuahuas. With its small size the Chihuahua is a great apartment dog so city life is no problem. Due to their popularity they can have some genetic issues, so be sure to get one from a qualified breeder if you want one of these feisty little Chi's to be in your life. |
The Xoloitzcuintli (pronounced Show low eats qweent lee, or Xolo for short) is one of the most ancient breeds in the Western Hemisphere, it is estimated to have originated 3500 years ago in Mexico. Xolos served the Aztecs and Mayans as healers, hunters, guards and bed warmers. The Xolo were also occasionally used for food and a highly significant religious sacrificial token. Due to the delicacy of the meat the Xolo almost became extinct, if not for the Federation Canofila Mexicana (FCM) and a group of extraordinary Xolo saviours in the 1950's the breed possibly would not be here. Early expeditions to remote villages in Mexico gathered pure breeding copies which has become the foundation stock for the modern day Xoloitzcuintli breed.
As easily noticed, the Xolo is a generally hairless dog. The gene that produces the absence of hair is dominant, however some Xolos are born with a partial coat. Xolos often have tusk like canine teeth. Since this is considered a 'primitive breed', the Xolo doesn't suffer genetic health issues like most breeds. They exist from natural selection over thousands of years by nature rather than bred for a specific purpose by man. As aforementioned, the Xolo comes in two varieties: Hairless and Furred but they also come in three sizes:
Xolos are an intelligent, loyal and devoted companion that tends to be calm and cheerful. They can be good guard dogs as they are a very alert breed and initially reserved with strangers. The Xolo have a wide range of abilities. As a Show Dog they can also do both Agility and Obedience. Additionally they are competent Service and Therapy Dogs. The Xolo can make a wonderful pet, however puppies need to be well socialized from the early weeks (just like all dogs.) Xolos are credited with an intelligent and fast learning attitude which will require the owner to earn respect and a utilize a consistent and structured routine. As should be expected with people, during cold months the Xolo needs a Coat/Jacket and Sunscreen during the Warm ones. Just like people, they need regular baths, at least one a week and lotions safe for dogs. Unlike most dog breeds, there is no hiding it if they get overweight. A relatively active lifestyle and healthy foods (they really like fruits and veggies!) will keep a Xolo in tip top shape. Overall, the Xoloitzcuintli is a fantastic and fascinating breed of dog that has as rich a history as the country it comes from. |
***Note: All of this information has come from a variety of sources with academic backing consolidated in this article.***
Now that we know about some Mexican Dogs,
how do we celebrate Cinco de Mayo with them?
Dress Up! |
Candid Pictures! |
Festive Toys! |
...and of course, Donate to a Mexican Dog Rescue in your pups name!
Mom's are pretty incredible. We look on them with amazement realizing the care and sacrifice they make having and raising kids. This can double or triple. In some cases even more at one go! Every day roughly 10,000 humans are born in the United States. That's a whole lot of people! We know that most of these will grow up and eventually have kids of their own. But while we humans can knowingly manage our birth rates and the impact it has on the environment, animals don't have this knowledge.
While a good portion of us also have safety measures, and some healthcare, not all animals do either which is why we need to help female cats and dogs who are moms and aren't mothers yet. Spay and Vaccination can help keep overpopulation and disease at bay. While humans make a lot of people at 10,000 a day, cats and dogs make roughly 70,000 babies a day! Each female cat and dog can have at least 2 litters a year with an average of 2-6 babies (or more) each time. Even if only 2 survive and go on to make more, that number quickly adds up! Over 10 years 1 female cat and her offspring can theoretically produce just over 1 million cats. Just. One. Cat. Dogs don't fare much better despite often shorter lifespans and better management by people.
Now of course we don't live in a perfect world, feral animals have a higher mortality rate. Things happen and no matter how good a mom is, no matter what species and how much loving care is given. Even survivors aren't guaranteed safety. It is estimated that 70% of cats that make it into the shelter are euthanized. 1.5 million animals are euthanized in shelters every year in the United States. There is some good news though:
6.5 million animals enter shelters every year and while 1.5 are euthanized, 3.2 million are adopted every year and about 710,000 animals are returned to their owners! This is thanks to increased education and action on Spaying and Neutering animals and a larger effort to train and understand animals as well as adoption rates going up.
Much of this progress has been spearheaded by women. Mothers, Pet Moms, and Women Community Activists have invested immense effort and drive to take care of our furred and feathered kids. Whether it is Human Rights, Animal Rights, or protection for all living things and the planet we all reside on, Women and Moms everywhere have our back. On Mothers day, give more than flowers, give thanks to the Mothering person in your life and listen to what they have to say. Moms are Awesome!
While a good portion of us also have safety measures, and some healthcare, not all animals do either which is why we need to help female cats and dogs who are moms and aren't mothers yet. Spay and Vaccination can help keep overpopulation and disease at bay. While humans make a lot of people at 10,000 a day, cats and dogs make roughly 70,000 babies a day! Each female cat and dog can have at least 2 litters a year with an average of 2-6 babies (or more) each time. Even if only 2 survive and go on to make more, that number quickly adds up! Over 10 years 1 female cat and her offspring can theoretically produce just over 1 million cats. Just. One. Cat. Dogs don't fare much better despite often shorter lifespans and better management by people.
Now of course we don't live in a perfect world, feral animals have a higher mortality rate. Things happen and no matter how good a mom is, no matter what species and how much loving care is given. Even survivors aren't guaranteed safety. It is estimated that 70% of cats that make it into the shelter are euthanized. 1.5 million animals are euthanized in shelters every year in the United States. There is some good news though:
6.5 million animals enter shelters every year and while 1.5 are euthanized, 3.2 million are adopted every year and about 710,000 animals are returned to their owners! This is thanks to increased education and action on Spaying and Neutering animals and a larger effort to train and understand animals as well as adoption rates going up.
Much of this progress has been spearheaded by women. Mothers, Pet Moms, and Women Community Activists have invested immense effort and drive to take care of our furred and feathered kids. Whether it is Human Rights, Animal Rights, or protection for all living things and the planet we all reside on, Women and Moms everywhere have our back. On Mothers day, give more than flowers, give thanks to the Mothering person in your life and listen to what they have to say. Moms are Awesome!
Plant Safety is an often overlooked part of pet care. When our pets get ill, one of the most important potentially life saving factors is knowing what your pet may have gotten into. Below we've put in what plants are safe and not for our pets. This includes plants animals love, some that also combat mosquitoes, and dangerous/poisonous types.
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Check back in as we will have more about safe plants and gardening later this month!
Featured Dog of the Month
Hi! My name is Roman.
I am an American Stafforshire Terrier who is looking for someone who is fun, active, and a strong experienced pack leader. I am a big happy boy who loves to play and cuddle. If you like spoiling a pup with toys, I want in! I love playing with toys and they say I am very silly. When it comes to cuddling, I can be the big or little spoon as long as I can be close to you. (I might be a bit of a bed hog...but you wouldn't mind that, would you?) People are awesome and I love them, even kids, but since I'm so big they say older kids are better friends to play with. Though I like other dogs, I'm probably best in a home as an only pup or in a home that has small dogs. I'm also good with dog savvy cats...I know they are higher on the pack totem pole than me......they said so. I have a ton of potential and they say I'm a super good boy, even if I can be a little hard headed sometimes. If you are looking for an active cuddlebug who is super silly too, I might be the most pawsome fit for you! |
Recent Adoptions!
Dumbledorf - Adopted 03-11-2019
Dumbledorf, a Seal Point Dumbo Rat, came into the rescue when his caretaker didn't have the time or resources needed to devote to him. He was originally rescued from the pet store by an employee when he was being rejected by his parent, other siblings, and was injured. He needed to be kept separate which made him have a higher affinity and reliance on humans rather than the social structures of rats. Dumbo Rats are highly sociable and usually gotten in pairs. Now adopted, he is a very happy rat and lives in a huge cage with a Wheel, Bed, Hammock, Ramps, things to chew on and rearrange so he is very busy!
We are sending out big congratulations to Mobility Service Dog, Asuma Saratobi, on his official retirement this month.
This amazing boy has been working for 10 years with his handler! He's been to many places, seen and experienced so many things during his time working. From the mundane of going to a restaurant or movie to the excitement of concerts and riding rides at theme parks, he's had a lot of fun while working too! He has also been a great pack leader of many dogs over the years and seen well over 100 pet adoptions. He's gone to adoption events to be a 'Donation Dog' and educated people about Service Dogs throughout his time working. Asuma has the patience of a saint. He's been Friend, Leader, Big Brother, and Dog Father to many rescues of various species, including humans! He's always done exemplary at his job and been a role model for aspiring future Service Dogs, Trainers, and Handlers. We wish our best to him and hope that he can enjoy his well deserved rest and relaxation! |
* Later this month we will be adding his full story to our Success Stories page *
Pupdates!
We thought we would highlight one of our ALPRAS adopted dogs from a long time ago.
So for this month, with the Cinco de Mayo holiday, we thought we would highlight Pickles!
Pickles Drummer is a Deer Chihuahua who came into the rescue because he was deemed unadoptable by the shelter and was slated to be euthanized. We weren't sure if he would ever be able to find a home and be a Sanctuary Dog forever. When we took him in he was extremely aggressive to people and other dogs. It took a fair amount of time to get him to even remotely adoptable. He was always tolerant towards cats and he overcame his dog aggression. His people issue, however, was another matter. There was only one person who we knew we could trust his life to outside of the sanctuary and one of the very few people that Pickles liked. He was young himself, still a teenager, but unlike other people he knew what it would take as a strong pack leader and responsible owner. The only person we could trust through and through to handle him and one of the extremely few people who knew what Pickles really was under all that angry bravado. A sweet, energetic, fun little dog that needed strong boundaries, limitations, and time.
Its been 8 years since then! Both of their worlds are much larger now. Pickles is a little more open to new people and after he has some time to get to know them he is able to interact without a muzzle and show his sweet and silly side. |
Some words from Pickles' Dad:
It's been a long road since Pickles was adopted and he's come a long way from the angry little dog he used to be. He's always a dog who will require work and more boundaries than other dogs might. That said, Pickles is a ridiculous little dog and very affectionate once he gets to know you. We've learned some interesting things on the way like how his favorite music is Rap (mine is Industrial and Metal - completely opposite), the best toys are weird, inexpensive, and squeak. How he could jump 5 plus feet straight up into the air and that he, despite acting so tough, is afraid of thunder storms. |
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It's strange to think its been 8 years since he became my dog. He's been with me while I finished high school, went through college, and as I've started my career as an Electrical Engineer. We've grown up together from the time we were both teenagers. I joke that he has some strange white mold beginning to grow on him. The little patch of white he had on his neck is spreading down his back. He doesn't jump quite as high as he used to but at a mere 10ish year old small dog, he's still in his prime.
As you can see by the pictures I've sent, he has a little sister who quickly became much larger than him. Her playful antics as she's grown fits in perfectly with his energy. Pickles a very good and protective big brother. He's come a long way, become more chilled out, and accepting of people and situations. Pickles by no means will ever be perfect, but he's perfect for me and my family.
I said it before and I sill state it again: I wouldn't trade him for any other dog. - Aleksandar Weber
As you can see by the pictures I've sent, he has a little sister who quickly became much larger than him. Her playful antics as she's grown fits in perfectly with his energy. Pickles a very good and protective big brother. He's come a long way, become more chilled out, and accepting of people and situations. Pickles by no means will ever be perfect, but he's perfect for me and my family.
I said it before and I sill state it again: I wouldn't trade him for any other dog. - Aleksandar Weber
New 'Mews'
Every rescue has it happen from time to time.
You talk to an potential adopter, call their vet and personal references, do a home visit, go over all the information, and answer any questions. They sign a contract, a promise and commitment to you, the rescue, and most importantly the animal they are taking into their home. When you leave, you leave a piece of you behind. The work and love you put into an animal. The heartache you face every time they go but the hope and happiness you get from knowing they (hopefully) have their very own forever home and you once again can open your heart and home to another animal in need.
That's the way it is supposed to go. The way you pray it will.
A good rescue checks in every so often to see how things are going, troubleshoot any issues, and whenever possible share their progress and pictures. ALPRAS checks in several times in the beginning. After the first 3 days. Then 3-4 weeks, 6 months, the 1st 'Gotcha Day', and once a year thereafter. When you adopt from ALPRAS, you become part of the ALPRAS Family along with the animal we have entrusted to your care. We keep records of new numbers and addresses so we can still be in contact if we need you or you need us. That's what family does. For instance, if for some reason the pet gets lost we can help find them, put out the word, and most importantly, get in contact with the adopter if the animal is found. All it takes is a phone call, text, or email and we will do everything we can to help.
Sometimes it doesn't work out.
Things happen we don't expect. Perhaps the animals that are already in the house can't get along despite all efforts. A massive financial or medical situation arises. An owner passes away. No matter what happens with an owner/adopter, we ALWAYS take back our animals with or without explanation. So on those rare occasions when an animal doesn't work out or a situation changes, there is absolutely no reason why we shouldn't be notified. Under no circumstance should the animal be abandoned.
Unfortunately, sometimes no matter what you do and say, bad things happen. In this case, it happened to Blizzard.
You talk to an potential adopter, call their vet and personal references, do a home visit, go over all the information, and answer any questions. They sign a contract, a promise and commitment to you, the rescue, and most importantly the animal they are taking into their home. When you leave, you leave a piece of you behind. The work and love you put into an animal. The heartache you face every time they go but the hope and happiness you get from knowing they (hopefully) have their very own forever home and you once again can open your heart and home to another animal in need.
That's the way it is supposed to go. The way you pray it will.
A good rescue checks in every so often to see how things are going, troubleshoot any issues, and whenever possible share their progress and pictures. ALPRAS checks in several times in the beginning. After the first 3 days. Then 3-4 weeks, 6 months, the 1st 'Gotcha Day', and once a year thereafter. When you adopt from ALPRAS, you become part of the ALPRAS Family along with the animal we have entrusted to your care. We keep records of new numbers and addresses so we can still be in contact if we need you or you need us. That's what family does. For instance, if for some reason the pet gets lost we can help find them, put out the word, and most importantly, get in contact with the adopter if the animal is found. All it takes is a phone call, text, or email and we will do everything we can to help.
Sometimes it doesn't work out.
Things happen we don't expect. Perhaps the animals that are already in the house can't get along despite all efforts. A massive financial or medical situation arises. An owner passes away. No matter what happens with an owner/adopter, we ALWAYS take back our animals with or without explanation. So on those rare occasions when an animal doesn't work out or a situation changes, there is absolutely no reason why we shouldn't be notified. Under no circumstance should the animal be abandoned.
Unfortunately, sometimes no matter what you do and say, bad things happen. In this case, it happened to Blizzard.
Bringin' it back Blizzard
A million things go through your head and guilt, though it shouldn't be yours, weighs heavily. We failed her, and those who were supposed to be her family and guardians failed her.
Words can't express how grateful we are to her finder. The woman who took her in, fed her, helped get rid of the parasites that riddled her emaciated body, and sheltered her. She put her everywhere on lost/found websites and social media. As soon as she was able she took her in to get scanned. When we say microchips save lives, we mean it. |
It was shocking to get the message. Traced back from her microchip, Blizzard was registered at a shelter as lost/stray.
We were surprised and somehow we knew immediately that it wasn't going to be good. It had been radio silence for almost 2 years despite repeated attempts to contact the adopter. We had become increasingly worried over the last 4 months and had contemplated doing a direct home visit. Something we had never had to even consider in actuality to perform before - despite it being listed in the adoption contract. Immediately we contacted the shelter and found that, thankfully, the finder was caring for her. We were both relieved and horrified when we reached out to them. She was still safe, but was in terrible condition. Within roughly an hour we were on the road to travel across the state to go get her. |
There are Angels in this world. People who give of themselves freely to help others.
The Good Samaritan who found Blizzard on her doorstep is absolutely one of these.
Blizzard has a long road to recovery.
When we arrived she had been there roughly a week and looked 100% better than when she arrived.
Putting this into perspective, Blizzard was emaciated, her fur was thin and rough for her. Her skin was an angry pink from parasites and probably sunburn. She had low energy and was shell of what we had adopted out. This was 100% better than when she was when she was taken in. Devastated but determined, we took her back home with us and decided immediately that she would be solidified as a Sanctuary Cat, a place she had already rightly earned before. We thanked the Angel who helped Blizzard in her greatest time of need. Words cannot express the amount of gratitude we have.
We have no doubt that she saved Blizzard's life.
' Bringin' it back Blizzard ' is going to be a page on the Website here (Under the Sanctuary Animals tab or link here.) so that people can learn why Blizzard was such an important cat to begin with, why she was a hero, and to follow her progress as she returns to health. We will be doing weekly updates and adding some pictures too. Blizzard has always been a hero for others, together we will work to be the heroes she needs us to be.
*** NOTE *** The new page for Blizzard began running on 4/8/19.
It will update weekly or if any important news arises on her progress prior to then.
Next update scheduled for 5/01/19. You can visit 'Bringin' it back Blizzard' here.
The Good Samaritan who found Blizzard on her doorstep is absolutely one of these.
Blizzard has a long road to recovery.
When we arrived she had been there roughly a week and looked 100% better than when she arrived.
Putting this into perspective, Blizzard was emaciated, her fur was thin and rough for her. Her skin was an angry pink from parasites and probably sunburn. She had low energy and was shell of what we had adopted out. This was 100% better than when she was when she was taken in. Devastated but determined, we took her back home with us and decided immediately that she would be solidified as a Sanctuary Cat, a place she had already rightly earned before. We thanked the Angel who helped Blizzard in her greatest time of need. Words cannot express the amount of gratitude we have.
We have no doubt that she saved Blizzard's life.
' Bringin' it back Blizzard ' is going to be a page on the Website here (Under the Sanctuary Animals tab or link here.) so that people can learn why Blizzard was such an important cat to begin with, why she was a hero, and to follow her progress as she returns to health. We will be doing weekly updates and adding some pictures too. Blizzard has always been a hero for others, together we will work to be the heroes she needs us to be.
*** NOTE *** The new page for Blizzard began running on 4/8/19.
It will update weekly or if any important news arises on her progress prior to then.
Next update scheduled for 5/01/19. You can visit 'Bringin' it back Blizzard' here.
Pets in Need
Saying Goodbye,
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Recently Added Memorials
Minaj, a cat adopted from us 6 years ago, passed away in early February due to full renal failure. She was humanly euthanized with family holding her and present.
Minaj was a sweet cat who would have been considered an F3 feral cat. This means that she would allow herself to be pet sometimes, on vary rare occasion jump on a lap, but remained mostly skittish cat who avoided general human contact. Like many semi-feral cats, Minaj was happier being a beautiful piece of artwork in a window or on a shelf than having full human interaction. She will be fondly remembered whenever the sun is just right for a kitty to sunbathe and show off silky, shiny black fur coating a purring beauty. |