The Latham Foundation for the Or Call 510-521-0920

T H E

VOLUME XXXX,Latham NUMBER 4 Letter Fall 2019 Promoting Respect For All Life Through Education Lakes Animal Friendship Society and RedRover Encourage Kindness in British Columbia By Alistair Schroff

HUMANE EDUCATION pp 5 HUMAN-ANIMAL INTERACTIONS pp 14

THE LINK pp 17 SCIENCE & NATURE pp 18 MEDIA REVIEWS pp 19 Edith Latham’s MANDATE:

“To promote, foster,

encourage and

further the

principles of

humaneness,

kindness and

benevolence to

all living creatures.”

The Latham Letter Balanced perspectives on humane issues and activities

Search the Latham Letter archives by topic and learn more about all of our resources and grants at © 2019 The Latham Foundation for the www.Latham.org or call 510-521-0920. Promotion of Humane Education

Volume XXXX, Number 4, Fall 2019 EDITORIAL 4 BALANCED PERSPECTIVES ON HUMANE ISSUES AND ACTIVITIES GUEST EDITORIAL: We are All No-Kill Madeline Bernstein, President laSPCA LATHAM'S HUMANE EDUCATION GRANTS 2019 AWARDS 5 The Latham Letter is published by The Latham Foundation, 1320 Harbor Bay Pkwy, Suite 200 2018 REPORTS Alameda, CA 94502-6581. Lakes Animal Friendship Society 6-8 Publisher and Editor Hugh H. Tebault, III By Alistair Schroff Managing Editor Judy Johns, M.S. Associate Editor Deirdre Rand, Ph.D. Liberia Animal Welfare and 9-11 Design Tula Asselanis Conservation Society By Morris Darbro The Latham Letter welcomes manuscripts relevant to the Palo Alto, Calif. Humane Society’s 12-13 Foundation’s interests, but reserves the right to publish such manuscripts at its discretion. Essay Contest: “Snapshot”

CONCERNING REPRINT PERMISSION: By Vandana Ravi Permission from the Latham Foundation to reproduce articles or other materials that appear in The Latham Letter is not required except HUMAN-ANIMAL INTERACTIONS when such material is attributed to another publication and/or authors other than the editors of this publication. In that case, permission Kindness in Action: Brady’s K-9 Fund 14 from them is necessary. When republishing, please use this form of credit: “Reprinted with permission from The Latham Letter, (date), UNIQUE ADOPTION LOCATIONS publication of the Latham Foundation for the Promotion of Humane Education, 1320 Harbor Bay Pkwy, Suite 200, Alameda, CA 94502, Alameda, CA Homeless Pets 15 510-521-0920, www.Latham.org.” Latham would appreciate receiv- Get Their Own Mall Store ing a copy of any publication or online source in which material is Element Hotel, Des Moines, IA 16 reproduced. ABOUT THE LATHAM FOUNDATION: THE LINK 17 The Latham Foundation is a 501(c)(3) private operating foundation founded in 1918 to promote respect for all life through education. Latham welcomes partnerships with other institutions and SCIENCE & NATURE 18 individuals who share its commitment to furthering humane education. Encouraging News about the

TO CONTACT LATHAM: California Condor Voice: 510-521-0920 Parrot Quiz Fax: 510-521-9861 E-mail: [email protected] Pets and Pot Web: www.Latham.org MEDIA REVIEWS AND NEWS 19 MEMBERS OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS: Ms. Stacy Baar Mr. Eric Bruner LATHAM VIDEO GUIDE 22 Ms. Betsy Cohen Mr. James Olson STREAM LATHAM VIDEOS Mr. Hugh H. Tebault, III Mrs. Mary Tebault FEATURING BROTHER BUZZ, LATHAM’S “SPOKESBEE”

3 | The Latham Letter | Fall 2019 www.Latham.org GUEST EDITORIAL

We Are All No-Kill Madeline Bernstein, President, spcaLA spcala.com I call on every Yet the ideologues, whether political, religious, or animal welfare one-issue wonders, are rabid, disruptive, sometimes individual, orga- violent, and never helpful. For example, telling chil- nization, group dren not to adopt a pet from an overcrowded pound, and association a place with the greatest need, because the shelter to stand together does not adhere to their definition of “no kill,” leaves and simply say, post, and remind everyone: We are more pets not adopted as visitors are scared away. all “no kill.” Who isn't? Of course! Ideologues never actually help, but rather holler nationally-issued talking points and rehearsed pro- I saw an interview of one of the actors in The paganda. They leave those who work in the shelters Handmaid's Tale, who was discussing new Georgia and rescue groups, those who really have dedicated anti-abortion laws, as this show films in Georgia. their lives to tending to these pets, to do it all against She looked into the camera and said, “We are ALL a cacophony of insults. The ideologues are neither pro-life. Who isn't?” (Serial killers excepted.) She “no kill” nor are they advancing an animal welfare went on to say that we have to care for all life, i.e. platform. Rather, they disrupt and demonize those the mother, the rape victim, the doctors, and, of who are. They divert people from doing their jobs. course starving children and vulnerable populations They actually cause the killing by this behavior. everywhere so as not to be hypocritical. Is letting a mother die or killing a doctor pro-life? Of course not. They are the opposite of no kill. The question is not are we pro-life, (pro-choice Haruki Murakami, author of Kafka on the Shore, people are pro-life too), but rather how are we treat- defined ideologues as “hollow people” -- people ing life? What choices do we make so we ensure all who fill up on talking points, lies, and anger, with a good quality of life and prevent suffering? no independent thoughts or moral center. They frat- ernize in a gang-like atmosphere with other hollow This is also a truth for those of us in the animal people who mirror each other's positions. Sadly, welfare business. when they pair up with hollow politicians they can We are all “no kill.” Whether one calls it Getting make some think that they are people of substance. to Zero, Compassion Saves, or Save Them All. The They are not. They are parrots rather than serious point is to rehabilitate and place all who can be into thinkers. They just yell at the people who do think. homes, and eliminate pain and suffering from those They obey their cult leaders. who can't be safely placed. To do so requires com- The good news is that we, actually, everyone else munity trust, volunteers, legitimate rescue/help, and in the world are not hollow people. We brim with increased outlets for our pets to be seen. These terms facts, empathy, science, and a solid ethical core that have no rational opposite. It is ridiculous to think that leaves no room for toxic sputum. As we soothe and we, an empathetic and compassionate people, who heal those who suffer, ideologues, the hollow people, rally to help a stranded puppy, a homeless person, criticize this help. It is not just shameful behavior, it or a disaster victim on the other side of the world is grifting, because their aim is to divert help from are anything but that. Continued on p 14 4 | The Latham Letter | Fall 2019 www.Latham.org HUMANE EDUCATION

LATHAM'S 2019 GRANT PROGRAM

Latham proudly announces the 28 recipients in its 2019 Grant Program. This year’s program focused on animal-assisted activities that benefit both people and animals and include humane education. We were impressed by the range of programs and number of applicants.

We thank all the organizations who submitted proposals and wish everyone success with their important work promoting kindness and respect.

A Fair Shake for Youth, Horses of Hope Oregon, Rise Canyon Ranch, Orange, CA New York, NY Turner, OR Roice-Hurst Humane Society, Assistance Dogs of the West, Humane Society of Huron Valley, Grand Junction, CO Santa Fe, NM Ann Arbor, MI Son Care Foundation, Inc., Canine Inspired Change, Idaho Humane Society, Boise, ID San Luis Obisbo, CA Saint Paul, MN K9 Youth Alliance, Pasadena, CA SPCA of Westchester, Educated Canines Assisting with Los Angeles County Animal Care Briarcliff Manor, NY Disabilities, Torrington, CT Foundation, Long Beach, CA Teacher’s Pet: Dogs and Kids Forget Me Not Children’s Ottawa Humane Society, Learning Together, Services, Santa Rosa, CA Ottawa, ON Canada Clinton Township, MI Funda Nenja, Howick Our Companions Animal Rescue The Little Blue Dog, Kwazulu Natal, South Africa Sanctuary, Manchester, CT Wellington, FL Happy Endings Animal Rescue Paws and Think, Inc., UNCHAINED, Soquel, CA Sanctuary, Solvang, CA Indianapolis, IN Utah Animal Adoption Center, Heart and Hooves Therapy, Paws for Heroes, Houston, TX Salt Lake City, UT Ramona, CA Prospect Therapeutic Riding Zuma’s Rescue Ranch, Hope’s Legacy Equine Rescue, Center, Myakka City, FL Littleton, CO Afton, VA

5 | Humane Education | The Latham Letter Fall 2019 www.Latham.org HUMANE EDUCATION 2018 GRANT RECIPIENT

LAKES ANIMAL FRIENDSHIP SOCIETY

By Alistair Schroff

The Latham Letter provided community cat some early inspiration for us when houses) and pet we started Lakes Animal Friend- food, we have ship Society (LAFS) more than a achieved notewor- decade ago. The late, great Jean thy results. Im- Atthowe contributed the article poundments have “A Lesson in Changing Attitudes” declined by 80% in the Winter 2000 issue and it and most impounded dogs are now local children to fantastic books remains very relevant. In the ar- claimed by the guardian. Surren- like Buddy Unchained. ticle Jean wrote that: “A goal of ders to shelters are less than a third the (Montana Spay/Neuter) Task of former levels. The incidence Many RedRover program Force is to bring a change in at- of dog bites to children requiring books have formed the backbone titude that will thus bring a change a visit to the ER have been cut in of the classroom and school in behavior through respecting half. Responsible guardianship library sets we have built over the animals and then other living and happy animal stories from years. In the RedRover Readers creatures including members of our empowered “student super- program, children listen to read- their family, school classes and heroes” in the classroom sharing ings of books, share ideas and community.” Or as we summed circles have become much more experiences, and reflect on how up in a six-word mission statement the norm. people and pets coexist within for LAFS: happy, healthy animals, neighborhoods and families. The families and community. They go Humane education has been, children are able to respond to hand-in-hand. and will continue to be, the cor- questions free from judgement, nerstone of our programs to build develop critical thinking skills that We have seen significant a community of care. Lessons help them become more informed changes in attitudes and behavior in the classroom reverberate as an empathetic about animal among the children and the other messages and materials like our welfare, and become empowered residents of the Lakes District student Critter Care newsletter are to create tangible solutions to the in rural northern British Colum- shared at home and in the com- problems they have discovered. bia, Canada. Through extensive munity. Having been introduced We were thrilled to receive a and repeated humane education to the RedRover Readers program Latham Grant to bring RedRover (focussed on animal care, com- and Gryphon Press at the Asso- President and CEO Nicole For- passion and dog bite safety), and ciation of Professional Humane syth (pictured above) to Lakes providing access to animal care Educators conference in 2012, we District this spring, along with resources for low income families have made RedRover Readers’ boxes of outstanding RedRover including spay/neuter services, techniques and strategies part of Readers program books from all-weather shelters (dog and our programs as we introduced Gryphon Press and others, and

6 | Humane Education | The Latham Letter Fall 2019 www.Latham.org HUMANE EDUCATION

One of RedRover’s Thank you Latham Founda- programs is disaster tion for recognizing that change relief, and having requires both improved knowl- been through record edge, like RedRover Readers’ breaking wildfires training, and access to the tools in 2018 this was of and resources to implement that great interest to the knowledge, like the resource kits community. In the that went to every classroom and various discussions trainee. Thank you for support- we saw more devel- ing LAFS and our partners at oping awareness of RedRover to build on our success- the link between vio- es and further spread the ripple of lence toward animals compassion in our community and and interpersonal vi- across northern British Columbia. olence, and the need for greater dialogue Here is some feedback from between animal wel- Sharlene Turner, Assistant Direc- fare groups like ours tor of the Burns Lake Library: and social service The Library staff who attended organizations. The the RedRover empathy workshop information on RedRover’s new workshop and presentation par- enjoyed it a lot. We are all able humane education apps: “The ticipants also experienced deli- to use the skills that Nicole has Restricted Adventures of Raja.” cious vegan food. Nicole and our volunteer teacher taught us in our everyday lives Valerie Ingram visited classes At the community presentation as well as at work. I thought Ni- across the district. We made Nicole met a couple of our local cole’s presentation was fun, easy sure that every class received a students who decided to have a to understand and very informa- resource kit to facilitate further lemonade sale to support the foster tive. We have also catalogued all discussions and learning, includ- families caring for three elderly the books that RedRover and the ing more books for the critter care female beagles (suspected former Lakes Animal Friendship Society and compassion bookshelf. puppy mill breeding stock) who have donated. We see that these were recently found abandoned books are being checked out of our library and into our commu- In addition, Nicole led a in the bush. The girls’ concern, engagement with the problem, and nity. The Burns Lake Public Li- RedRover Readers' workshop for brary is now coordinating with the teachers, aides and other animal active involvement in the solu- tion is emblematic of culture that Lakes Animal Friendship Society welfare volunteers as well as “al- to bring in their volunteer Julie lies” from the public library and groups like LAFS and RedRover are trying to engender. and trained therapy dog Clive in social services organizations. the near future for “Reading Bud- Again, we provided resource kits While Nicole brought fresh dies.” Children who would like to all participants so the tools for perspectives and new educational to read or practice their reading ongoing program implementa- media, it was also gratifying to see skills will be able to book a time tion are right at hand. Finally, all that the primary messages were at the library and read to Clive. community members were invited consistent with the lessons we This will help the children feel to an evening presentation about have developed and expanded on more relaxed and comfortable RedRover. https://redrover.org over the past decade. about reading. We are all very

7 | Humane Education | The Latham Letter Fall 2019 www.Latham.org HUMANE EDUCATION

excited to implement this project The Lakes Animal Friendship Note: We invite Latham Letter into our library, as this will also Society’s mission statement: readers to download many of teach children empathy towards Happy, healthy animals, our materials (including activity animals and all living things. families, and community. sheets, colouring books, newslet- ters and a catchy song) free of charge at lakesanimalfriendship. ca/resources. Most of the free resources will soon also be available in Spanish.

Excerpt from the Thanksgiving Address, Mohawk version

"We send thanks to all the animal life in the world. They have many things to teach us as people.

We are glad they are still here and we hope it will always be so."

8 | Humane Education | The Latham Letter Fall 2019 www.Latham.org HUMANE EDUCATION 2018 GRANT RECIPIENT Liberia Animal Welfare & Conservation Society (LAWCS) Promotes Humane Education among School Children in Liberian Schools

By Morris Darbro liberiaanimalwelfaresociety.org

Project Goal: The aim of the of children who mimic the cruelty The country’s animal cruelty is a project is to equip school children practiced in front of them by their generational problem. with knowledge about animal elders. As animal lovers, we have welfare and promote positive met children who think that ani- In order to curtail this trans- attitudes, build empathy, foster mals feel no pain, children who gression from one generation to responsible behaviors and inspire for example hate cats or certain the next generation, the Liberia them (future leaders) to make a other species - to the point that Animal Welfare & Conservation difference for animals and people. they actually think it’s ok to hurt Society strongly believes that all them. change for the better begins with Project Beneficiaries: 3,000 Sadly, a lot of adults in Liberia education. If we are to truly make schoolchildren and 20 teachers in seem to get great pleasure out of a real difference for animals, peo- 10 Schools in Voinjama City, Lofa harming and even killing ani- ple and the environment, we must County, Liberia mals; their children see this and begin by equipping the younger think that this is acceptable. The generation with knowledge about Overview of the project children start to imitate those un- kindness, respect, empathy and The incidences of animal ne- acceptable and inhumane behav- compassion for animals, who will glect and cruelty are increasing iors not only to animals but also go on to influence generations daily in various communities in to one another and other people to come. LAWCS also believes Liberia where LAWCS' program because the only thing they have that childhood is a time when has not reached, often at the hands been exposed to is aggression. one's character is being formed,

9 | Humane Education | The Latham Letter Fall 2019 www.Latham.org HUMANE EDUCATION

kindness to animals can lead to kindness to one another, kindness to other people, kindness to one`s country and kindness to the rest of the world. The project implementation started in January, 2019 with meeting the Education Office and the authorities from the 10 selected schools. This was fol- lowed by selection of one teacher and the head master from each of the 10 schools. The teachers were trained for two days and provided with various educational materials at the end of the training. therefore by explaining what it and debate, video shows, humane means to be human by examining lessons, stories, games, drawing, Outcomes of the project our relationships to other crea- animal welfare clubs, exhibi- tures, we can help stop animal tion - all of which were done to • Held an informative meeting cruelty before it starts. encourage the children to form with the district education office their own positive opinions and and authorities of the ten selected With this in mind and the attitudes to the animals and other schools in Voinjama District substantial financial support people in their lives. These ac- • Provided a two-day intensive from the Latham Foundation, tivities and programs were done training for 20 selected classroom we ran an animal welfare educa- to enable the children to gain a teachers from the ten schools tion program in ten schools in richer understanding of animals as Humane Educators in their Voinjama District, Lofa County, in our world and a sense of how respective schools and commu- Liberia with over 3,000 children they can treat them as fellow be- nities and 20 teachers. We recruited ings, with empathy, compassion, • Assigned two LAWCS' vol- 20 classroom teachers and head innate love and respect. The unteers in the district to work masters, trained and empowered trained classroom teachers were with the teachers and conduct a them with various humane educa- also empowered so that they can daily learning program with the tion materials and worked along continue to educate their students students with them in conducting daily about the importance of kindness humane education programs in to animals and people. Animal • Reached and inspired 3,704 their schools and communi- Welfare Club was established in children with the animal welfare ties. The programs educated the each of the 10 schools with 30 education program children about animals and their members each. When children • Established a functional Animal needs and explained that animals start to show love, kindness, Kindness Club in each school are just like us - they need food, empathy and compassion for with 30 committed members shelter, medical care and love. animals, they learn how to also each. A total of 600 children were We did this through a variety of show love, kindness, empathy involved in the club work. interactive activities including and compassion to one another • Financially supported the ten drama and role play, discussions and other people. Therefore, clubs projects

10 | Humane Education | The Latham Letter Fall 2019 www.Latham.org HUMANE EDUCATION

“I will always help animals that are suffering.”

“I will always respond to animals in need.”

“Kindness to animals has helped me learned about kindness to other people.”

“Kindness to animals has helped me learned about love, respect, empathy and compassion for all life.”

“The program has changed my attitude towards animals and • Conducted a drawing competi- • Organized and hosted an Ex- other people.” tion among the children and the hibition program - each school winners were given educational demonstrating what they learned “I was always stoning animals materials about animal protection and but from now on I have changed. • Held a monthly meeting with educating the larger society about I promised to always protect and each club educating them on the importance of improving the care for animals.” animal welfare issues and how welfare of animals they can work together as team to • Certified the ten schools for par- “I am now responsible for the improve conditions for animals in ticipating in our animal welfare feeding of our family animals their communities education program after learning about them.”

• Conducted one round of Chil- “It is my hope to become ani- dren-Compassion-In-Action pro- These are some of the quota- tions from the children: mal doctor in the future to help gram reaching to their family animals.” animals, learning about animals, “I am responsible to educate interacting with their family ani- “Our family dog is dearer to mals and educating their parents my family about our animal welfare.” me after learning about animal on animal welfare feelings.”

It’s Your Time to Shine! If you received a 2018 Latham Humane Education Grant and would like us to consider featuring your program here, please contact [email protected].

11 | Humane Education | The Latham Letter Fall 2019 www.Latham.org HUMANE EDUCATION 2018 GRANT RECIPIENT PALO ALTO, CALIF. HUMANE SOCIETY (PAHS) NOTE: The Palo Alto Humane Society received a Latham Foundation grant to support and expand their K-5 education programs that creatively engage students to become Ambassadors of Compassion. We wanted to share this news about their first-ever Ambassadors of Compassion story writing contest for middle-school students as well, because it illustrates this year’s Grant Program theme of animals and people helping each other either physically or emotionally. Congratulations to first place winner Vandana Ravi, and Honorable Mentions Amara Fernandes, Aaron Huang, and Macy Li. We are pleased to reprint Vandana’s essay here. You can find the other winners and a list of all entrants at https://www.paloaltohumane.org/humane-news/writing-contest-winner-announcement/.

Snapshot and the breeze more than make By Vandana Ravi up for it.

Every moment in a lifetime is For a second, surprise makes made up of hundreds of others. me wobble on the bike as I no- Sights, emotions, people, and de- tice something completely out cisions form a chain right up until of place on the copse-lined, they reach the present, where you narrow yet urban avenue: a sit unaware of the countless things donkey standing in a fenced- which happened to bring you here. off field to my left. I’ve always been terrified of large animals. My present moment is filled But for some reason, my fears with everything I thought a mo- and my common sense desert ment of mine never could have me. Instead of fleeing, I stop all at once – friends, animals, my bike. laughter, and the sound of my own voice. But a handful of earlier moments, earlier decisions, pushed Moment 2 mind, trying to probe, considers my life into this direction. Those I swear I can hear my own the possibility that we might be moments, which have come to heart pounding as I take a step to- the same in essence. I smile and me through a blend of work and ward the donkey. To my surprise, my shoulders relax. Believing the plain good luck, are the center of it pushes its head through a gap in human in this animal gives me a the story I want to tell. the fence, and suddenly I notice its eyes. Something is striking about kind of peace. Nothing is more them – is it depth? Expression? comforting than knowing that you Moment 1 Emotion? Suddenly I realize the are not alone. I’m biking down a new route truth: what I see in those bright home from school. My shoulders black eyes is a mirror image of ache slightly from the weight of Moment 3 myself. The donkey’s version is my backpack, but the sunshine After a particularly long day, simpler, more primal. But my I lean on the fence and begin to

12 | Humane Education | The Latham Letter Fall 2019 www.Latham.org HUMANE EDUCATION

speak, forgetting that the donkey Suddenly I’m laughing, not with me. I remember the pang of won’t understand me – forgetting caring if anyone hears. I’m laughing wistfulness I had felt on that day, everything except that somewhere at the sheer absurdness of it – me, the and I realize I need to do something deep in its black eyes is a soul one who had always been terrified of for this donkey – not only for its like mine. “It’s so peaceful here. animals, trying to comfort a donkey well-being, but for my own. Like time has slowed down on this with the thoughts I used to comfort myself – but Moment 5 I’m also I secure a manila envelope to laughing at the donkey’s fence with duct tape, how light and then bend down and scrawl my yet powerful email address across the back. The I feel after envelope contains all the evidence I speaking the could find, photos and print-outs and words. It is even a thin manual, supporting my as if someone wish to get the donkey a companion. has removed It also holds a note and instructions a heavy cloak to email me if I can contribute to from my the two donkeys’ upkeep in a small shoulders, way. I’m exhausted, triumphant, stretch of road.” The donkey swings revealing wings underneath. And but mostly hopeful. With so many its tail. I keep talking. “It’s a wonder for this I have to thank a donkey. articles corroborating that donkeys so few people come to say hi to are happier when they don’t live you. This place is always so empty. Moment 4 alone, I’m glad there is something Don’t you ever get lonely?” There is Are donkeys social animals? I I can do for the animal who has no response, but it feels good to talk type into Google and scroll through become my friend. to someone who won’t judge my pages and pages of results in blank words. I realize how much I hold surprise. Moment 6 – The Present back when I talk to my classmates A cluster of middle school at school. Why is it that I’m so “Donkeys are very social animals.” students has formed in front of slow to share my opinions? Could “A lone donkey kept as a pet needs the fenced-off field, their sneakers that be the reason I am so often a friend of another donkey, horse or kicking up dust. The sun catches the left alone? “People can make you other animal.” particles in its rays and illuminates feel less than them because you’re “Donkeys like company and them as they shift in the breeze; different, but you’re not. You’re no develop very strong emotional the usual sounds of wind rustling less of a good friend because you’re attachments.” the trees and cars honking in the not a traditional pet like a dog or a “If a donkey loses a companion, the distance are mingled with the cat, are you? If people don’t visit stress can lead to disease.” chatter of the people whom I’ve you, it’s no fault of yours.” I pause. come to consider as friends. People “Humans are afraid of anything new I suddenly remember the lone I barely noticed in the hallways and unknown. I’ve been in your donkey gazing at me from behind at school have bonded with me place, but I’ve also been in theirs. the fence. Following that memory, over these two donkeys. I talk and The thing is, you can’t let their fear surprising me, comes one of myself. laugh and treasure the moment, hurt you. Remember that.” The I am sitting alone on a long bench remembering that the friend who donkey’s eyes seem to meet mine during lunchtime break, throngs of never answered me in words is the for a second. Its tail swings. students chatting around but not one who has brought me this joy.

13 | Humane Education | The Latham Letter Fall 2019 www.Latham.org GUESTHUMAN-ANIMAL EDITORIAL INTERACTIONSHUMAN-ANIMAL INTERACTIONS from page 4 REGISTRATION OPEN! https://www.aphe.org/event-3512909/Registration the needy to themselves. And they deliver nothing in return. Think about it, by scaring people away from the shelters, they per- petuate themselves. Fundraising is often a factor as well. In other words, they sustain the problem with their fundraising platform! This diverts funds from those who need them most –our homeless pets and those who tend them.

We are all pro-life and “no kill.” We strive so that all may live a quality life. We must not suffer or invite the hollow people to fill spaces in which they can metastasize and ruin our good Kindness works. in Action Every public or private animal shelter and all rescue organiza- How One Person is tions are “no kill.” Who Isn't? Of course! Making a Difference for K-9 Officers

Brady’s K-9 Fund was founded by Brady Snakovsky (above), an active ten year old in fourth grade. He couldn’t understand why all K-9 officers were not wearing ballistic vests. After learning that these vests are not automatically issued to the K-9s and are very expensive, Brady made it his mission to raise funds in order to protect those who protect us and make sure that they come home at the end of their shift.

Brady’s goal is to donate a practical, mission-ready vest to as many Police K-9s as possible. He wants the K-9s who protect communities across the United States to be protected themselves during their entire shift.

To date, Brady’s K-9 Fund has donated 126 vests. You can learn more about Brady and his work at https://www.bradysk9fund.com/.

14 | HUMAN-ANIMAL INTERACTIONS | The Latham Letter Fall 2019 www.Latham.org HUMAN-ANIMAL INTERACTIONS Adoptions

Alameda (California) Homeless Pets Get Their Own Mall Store Since this past July, a shop- facilitate adoptions, but it expands FAAS South Shore started as ping trip to Alameda’s South the scope of services that FAAS a successful pop-up store in De- Shore Center mall might include can offer the public,” he said. cember 2018. Since then, more adopting a home- The space includes than 70 individuals and businesses less cat or dog. a large meeting based in Alameda and neighbor- Alameda’s animal room where FAAS ing communities have donated shelter, operated will offer various money, labor, materials and ser- by Friends of the pet care education vices to make a permanent mall- Alameda Animal classes to the public, located adoption site a reality for Shelter (FAAS), plus grief counsel- Alameda’s homeless pets. opened a second- ing for pet owners alamedaanimalshelter.org ary adoption center – its first who have lost a furry satellite location – at South Shore family member. Center. In addition, the store features It is the first business-district a Cat Experience Room where store in Alameda dedicated to the adoptable cats and kittens roam adoption of homeless pets, noted free in a retro/future-inspired John L. Lipp, FAAS Executive décor. Adoptable dogs make ap- Director. pearances on weekends, including “FAAS South Shore not only monthly adoption events in the gives FAAS a second location to shopping center’s center courtyard.

15 | HUMAN-ANIMAL INTERACTIONS | The Latham Letter Fall 2019 www.Latham.org HUMAN-ANIMAL INTERACTIONS Another Unique Adoption Location Big thanks to Julie Falconer, senior editor of the Humane Society of the United State’s award-winning Animal Sheltering magazine (Spring 2019), for tipping us off to this clever and successful adoption option. Animal Rescue League of Iowa and the Element Hotel in West Des Moines partner to put adoptable dogs and cats in the paths of people who have often never visited an animal shelter.

and instantly fell in love. They can take the dogs on outings, “She said, ‘Oh my gosh, snuggle with them on couches in that dog looks just like the lobby and even hang out with the dog I have at home.’ them in their rooms. Fifteen minutes later, she This creative fostering ar- was adopting.” rangement frees up shelter space The foster partnership and provides extra socialization has been so successful that for individual animals, who get a the biggest challenge, on chance to work their charms on a the shelter’s side, is sup- new audience. plying enough dogs to the According to the Element’s hotel, says Stephanie Filer, FaceBook page, they have ARL development director. As Julie Falconer explains, “It’s a good problem to have.” since December 2017, this hotel ARL provides small or has fostered 35 dogs from the medium-size pups who are people Animal Rescue League of Iowa and dog friendly, and Sampino’s (ARL), and they’ve all been short team takes it from there. New fos- term stays. The idea originated ters spend a few hours in a quiet with the hotel’s general manager office before moving to a gated- Amanda Sampino, a longtime dog off corner of the lobby. lover who heard about a similar Sampino admits that she was program in Asheville, North initially a bit worried about the ex- built on the Goat Yoga craze by Carolina. She secured a partner- tra work, but she quickly discov- offering “Cats ’ N Mats” pilates ship with ARL, a private shelter ered that her team views dog duty classes where community mem- with municipal animal control as a perk, not a burden. “Those bers can spend a relaxing morning contracts that takes in more than dogs get so many walks,” she doing mat pilates, sipping their 10,000 animals a year. says, adding that hotel staff even free meow-mosas, and cuddling The hotel fosters one or two handle adoption paperwork and kittens! Participants get first dibs pups at a time, and nearly all are will bathe dogs who arrive from on adopting any of the kittens at adopted within 48 hours—such the shelter in less-than-sweet- the event. as Yoshi, who arrived from the smelling condition. “Everyone shelter late in the day. The next wants to spend time with them.” Discover more at https://www. morning, a guest came to the The hotel’s human guests are facebook.com/pg/ElementWest- lobby to check out, says Sampino, equally happy with the arrangement. DesMoinesHotel/posts/

16 | HUMAN-ANIMAL INTERACTIONS | The Latham Letter Fall 2019 www.Latham.org THE LINK

The LINK The National Link Coalition Courtesy of www.NationalLinkCoalition.org Coordinator Phil Arkow,

NEW FUNDING SOURCE FOR DOMESTIC VIOLENCE SHELTERS AND VETERINARIANS

Seattle Seahawks’ Quarter- back Russel Wilson is working to protect both people and their pets from domestic violence. Wilson has partnered with the Banfield Foundation to help pet owners in violent situations have “shelter and safety along with Animal Abusers Registry Now Available their pets.” in Volusia County, Florida Through the Safer Together initiative, Banfield Foundation On June 1, 2019, an online wanting to take that extra step to is investing $1 million toward registry that lists convicted animal help our animals that are being pet-friendly domestic programs abusers–including their picture, abused or tortured in ways you in the form of grants, the cre- date of birth, and a description of can’t believe.” (Daytona Beach ation of an Advisory Commit- their violation, in hopes of ensur- News-Journal) tee, and continuing education ing the crime won’t happen again– She said her work isn’t done for veterinary professionals on became available on the Volusia yet, though she’s “excited and how to help pets in domestic County website. grateful” for Volusia’s approval violence situations. The grants It’s a result of “Ponce’s Law,” of the registry. will go to qualified non-profit which Port Orange resident 61 Florida counties still don’t organizations that are working Debbie Darino pioneered. She have a tool for tracking abusers. on creating safe solutions for pet also led this local effort to adopt “I want to get all the counties in owners looking to leave abusive the registry. Florida to implement one,” Darino households with their animals. “This is one more step to keep said in an interview. She plans to these (animals) out of the hands of lobby the cause to the Florida As- https://www.banfield.com/ban- abusers,” Darino told the council. sociation of Counties. “I want to field-foundation/safer-together “I know each of you are animal push for this statewide. If this just for more information. lovers. I can’t imagine you not saves one animal, I am happy.”

17 | THE LINK | The Latham Letter Fall 2019 www.Latham.org SCIENCE & NATURE Encouraging News about the California Condor According to The Week, Au- The San Diego Zoo launched a gust 9, 2019, the California Con- captive breeding program that year, dor once seemed doomed to go and a decade later, North America’s the way of the Dodo and the largest flying bird was reintroduced Passenger Pigeon. There were to the wild. The 1,000th California only 22 of the scavengers left in Condor chick since the program’s the wild in 1982, their population start has recently hatched, and there ravaged by lead poisoning from are approximately 3,000 Condors hunter’s bullets. in the wild.

How many native Answer: page 22 parrot species are QUIZ there in the United States?

Anywhere you look nowadays, This is leading pet owners to aspca.org/news/are-there-safety- you’re bound to spot something ask: If marijuana or CBD is help- concerns-about-cbd-products about marijuana and its compo- ful for some nents CBD (cannabidiol) and people, can it THC (tetrahydrocannabinol). help my pet? PETS AND POT

With medical marijuana now The ASPCA legal in over half the states, and Animal Poison an increasing number of states Control Cen- legalizing recreational marijuana, ter (APCC) there’s been a rise in CBD prod- weighs in on ucts (like oils and treats) in main- this trending stream shops and retail chains. topic. And recently, the trend has carried over to our four-legged-friends.

18 | SCIENCE & NATURE | The Latham Letter Fall 2019 www.Latham.org MEDIA REVIEWS AND NEWS MEDIA REVIEWS AND NEWS

Ever wondered why Becoming a R.E.A.D.™ the black cat is consid- Team ered bad luck or why cats 2nd Edition -- 2019 were considered good luck on ships and planes? Intermountain Therapy Ani- mals has registered more than The answers to these 6,000 R.E.A.D. therapy teams questions and many more throughout the U.S. and in 26 ad- are here in this easy to ditional countries. read and fully referenced Their new video shows in cat history with more detail what it takes to help kids than 150 black and white learn to read -- and fall in love illustrations. with books -- and it emphasizes Revered and Reviled: more than ever that a handler must A Complete History advocate for their animal partner of the Domestic Cat and make sure his/her needs and Author: L. A. Vocelle requests are met and honored. Copyright 2016; Revised They insist on the concept that no Edition 2017 kind or extent of therapeutic inter- ISBN vention is worthwhile if it comes Revered and Reviled: 13: 978-0692759820 at the expense of any animal. A Complete History of ISBN-10: 0692759824 the Domestic Cat www.thegreatcat.org Find out more about Inter- By L. A. Vocelle mountain Therapy Animals Throughout history the cat has and the R.E.A.D.® program at been an indomitable influence Updated Video! http://www.therapyanimals. on societies and cultures, first as org/Home.html. goddess, then as demon, and now as hero and social media empress. Man’s view of the cat has come full circle. As both mascot and muse to great adventurers, writers, artists and statesmen, the cat has offered comfort and inspiration. Never obsequious or ordinary, always elegant and inscrutable, the cat has played a fundamental role in civilization through the centuries, and this is its story.

Find out why women and cats have been bound together throughout history.

19 | MEDIA REVIEWS AND NEWS |The Latham Letter Fall 2019 www.Latham.org MEDIA REVIEWS AND NEWS

With predestination in the air, her path crossed with a novice dog trainer (the author) seeking to improve his skills by volunteering at the shelter where she was housed. Despite her distrust of people, and his disinterest in the responsi- bilities of dog ownership, they immediately bonded and em- barked on a nine-year journey that would change them, and those whose lives they graced, forever. Mutual Rescue: How Adopt- Author John D. Visconti, ing a Homeless Animal Can CPDT-KA is a DWAA Max- Save You, Too Pepper Becoming: The well Award winning author and By Carol Novello Journey of an Unwanted owner of Rising Star Dog Train- A moving and scientific look Dog and the Man Who ing Services, LLC and Rising Star at the curative powers--both Wanted Her Dog Training, LLC. His book, physical and mental--of rescuing By John D. Visconti, CPDT-KA Fetch More Dollars for Your Dog a shelter animal, by the president Training Business is the 2015 win- of Humane Society Silicon Valley. Pepper Becoming humorously, ner of the prestigious Dog Writers MUTUAL RESCUE profiles tenderly, and sometimes painfully Association of America Maxwell the transformational impact that recounts the unlikely true story of Award reference book of the year. shelter pets have on humans, ex- two kindred souls – a dog no one He has written several columns ploring the emotional, physical, wanted and a man not interested for BARKS from the Guild and and spiritual gifts that rescued in owning a dog – who help each the Chronicle of the Dog. He has animals provide. It explores other navigate life’s challenges. also served as a chair for the through anecdote, observation, Abandoned by her owners APDT (Association of Profes- and scientific research, the com- 15 miles from her home, Pepper sional Dog Trainers) business plexity and depth of the role was dirty, diseased, and emaci- sub-committee and presented that pets play in our lives. Every ated when police seized her on several coaching lectures and we- story in the book brings an un- the streets of New York. She was binars to dog training schools and recognized benefit of adopting scheduled to be euthanized after force-free organizations. John is homeless animals to the fore- her owners refused to claim her. also an award winning, published front of the rescue conversation. Instead, she was adopted only to songwriter and performer. In a nation plagued by ill- be returned, and again scheduled nesses (16 million adults suffer to be euthanized. Finally she was Pepper Becoming from depression, 29 million have rescued by a no-kill shelter where Author: John D. Visconti, diabetes, 8 million in any given she lived in a cage for nearly two CPDT-KA year have PTSD, and nearly 40% years and deteriorated emotion- ISBN 978-0-692-145302 are obese), rescue pets can help. ally and behaviorally. www.risingstardogservices.com For example, 60% of doctors said

20 | MEDIA REVIEWS AND NEWS |The Latham Letter Fall 2019 www.Latham.org MEDIA REVIEWS AND NEWS

they prescribe pet adoption and a like he’s her owner. The street is staggering 97% believe that bustling with passersby and no pet ownership provides health one notices the interaction. The benefits. For people in chronic young man unties Tippy’s leash emotional, physical, or spiri- and leads her into the nearby tual pain, adopting an animal van, even though Tippy franti- can transform, and even save, cally barks for help. With Tippy their lives. in the van, the thieves pull away Each story in the book takes and blend into traffic. a deep dive into one potent This pair of ex-cons have aspect of animal adoption, been collecting stray and unat- told through the lens of tended dogs then selling them people’s personal experiences to laboratories that skirt govern- with their rescued pets and the ment rules and regulations re- science that backs up the results. garding animal experimentation. This book will resonate with While the thieves drive around readers hungering for stories of looking for more strays, Tippy healing and redemption. devises a daring escape plan. She Author Carol Novello began Three Stray Dogs and Wally, another stray in the thieve’s van, find themselves on rescuing animals at age five By Debra J. White and hasn’t stopped. With a the run-down streets in the South Harvard MBA, she was a The setting is the 1990s. Tippy Bronx. They meet another stray senior executive working in the dog goes on a casual Sunday dog named Bertha, and the Great high tech, most recently at In- afternoon walk in New York’s Harriet, a lost cat with an attitude. tuit, Inc. Today, she is the presi- Central Park with her beloved Together they form a family of dent of Humane Society Silicon owners, Shanita and Shanita’s sorts and live behind a gas station Valley, where she launched Mutual mom Roz. Darkness settles over on the Grand Concourse, a major Rescue, a digital global cam- the city and it’s time to head back thoroughfare. paign of short films designed to home to their 110th Street apart- But complications arise! Tippy showcase the therapeutic benefits ment. Mother and daughter secure is desperate to see her owners of animal companionship and Tippy’s leash around a parking again and she searches for a way encourage adoptions. Through meter in front of Fairway, a bus- home but becomes lost. her work at Humane Society tling food market on Broadway, This is only the beginning of Silicon Valley, she has been while they go inside to buy gro- their adventure. awarded the Maddie’s Fund ceries. High school senior Shanita What happens to Bertha, Wally “Maddie Hero Award” for in- pats Tippy’s head and says, “We’ll and Tippy? Does the Great Harriet novation and leadership in the be right back. I love you sweet live up to reputation and save the sector and has been recognized girl.” Smiling, she walks towards day? Three Stray Dogs is a tale of as an honoree at the Fifty Years the store’s entrance. hope, friendship, and determina- of Women at Harvard Business As Tippy flops down to wait tion written with such detail that School celebration in Northern for her owner’s return, two thieves you’ll think you are right there on California. She lives in the San pull up in a shabby cargo van the streets of New York. Francisco Bay Area where she and park. A scruffy young man enjoys spending time with her wearing sneakers, torn jeans and Three Stray Dogs own rescue companions: tuxedo an over-sized sweatshirt hops out Author: Debra J. White cats Bode and Herbie. and sweet talks Tippy. He acts Available from Amazon

21 | MEDIA REVIEWS AND NEWS |The Latham Letter Fall 2019 www.Latham.org MEDIA REVIEWS AND NEWS

Calling all film history and marionette fans!

Our Complete Library of Brother Buzz Episodes from the 1960s is now available for free streaming on Vimeo!

Brother Buzz episodes took children around the Fans today still remember the lessons learned with world to learn about different animals and their their kind bee friend, Brother Buzz. See early chil- environments, and to be kind to all. Buzz and his dren’s television programming at its finest featuring menagerie of animal marionettes focused on different the work of marionette theater pioneer Ralph Chessé issues each week. Visits include the animal shelter in and Latham’s “Spokesbee” Brother Buzz. “Lost Friend-SPCA” to see how your lost pet can be found, or the importance of oceans in “Man and the “This library is a Sea.” Another episode,"Billy," focused on learning treasure trove!” challenges. All ended up with an empathetic view Preston Neal Jones, Brother Buzz of the world and a reminder to be kind to animals. Film Historian TV Episodes

LATHAM VIDEO COLLECTIONS EDUCATIONAL VIDEOS FOCUSED STREAMING ON VIMEO ON EMPATHY AND KINDNESS

The Healing Human-Animal Animal-Assisted Nature & Science Human-Animal Bond Interactions Activities Videos K-12

For our complete Video Library please go to All videos in the Latham Video Library are copyrighted by The Latham Foundation. Vimeo: vimeo.com/lathamfoundation or VIMEO.COM/LATHAMFOUNDATION/PORTFOLIOS Latham website: latham.org/publications-resources/videos/

Answer to Quiz parrot species from tropical climates Trick Question! living in the wild in the U.S., including in New York City, Chicago, and San There are currently no native parrot Francisco, where escaped pet parrots species in this country. However, ac- have formed breeding colonies and cording to Gizmodo.com, there are 56 continue to thrive.

22 | MEDIA REVIEWS AND NEWS |The Latham Letter Fall 2019 www.Latham.org THE BEAUTY OF AUTUMN

The Latham Foundation Promoting Respect For All Life Through Education 1320 Harbor Bay Pkwy Suite 200 Alameda, CA 94502-6581 USA www.latham.org