Latest news from the Centro Canino Internacional animal refuge, Palma, Mallorca

Latest News from Centro Canino

July UpdatePublished 7 julio 07

This month we’re trying very hard to re-home some of our kittens and cats. If you can give a good home to a cat, or of you know someone who can – we have more than three dozen lovely cats and kittens who are looking for a nice home.

So please come along and give a cat a home.

The trouble with having so many cats in the shelter is that we cannot take any more strays in. Whenever possible we’re pursuing our objective of getting stray cats neutered, so that fewer unwanted kittens are born, but it’s an uphill struggle.

We’re also very busy in the dogs and puppies department.

Too many unwanted/abandoned/abused dogs coming in, and only a few being adopted. Starting this week, we’re advertising in the Daily Bulletin (and maybe later in the Euro Weekly and one or two of the Spanish newspapers) to try to make more people aware of where to go, if they want to adopt a dog.

The Daily Bulletin has been (as always) very, very supportive of the Centro Canino and given us a really generous discount on our adverts. We’re truly grateful for all their help. Mallorca wouldn’t be Mallorca without the good old Daily B!

Alongside this update is a photograph of Labby. I really want to try to find her a nice home. She’s a terrific dog. Smart, loyal, clean and keen to learn to be obedient (unless she’s very distracted, I can already get her to ‘Sit’ in three languages. And seeing as how I only speak English, that’s quite an accomplishment for both of us!).

Labby is a medium to large size dog with maybe a little bit of bull-terrier in her; but please don’t let that put you off. She’s gentle, very loving and would be an ideal pet. You’ll feel pretty safe with her around too! Very pretty and very strong – a bit like Wonderwoman!

As you probably know in early June, we had some trouble at the shelter. Two young men broke in, tried to get into the dog kennels, realised they couldn’t without setting the alarms off, so instead, stole/killed two small birds which were in a cage.

No idea what their point was. Did someone send them? We certainly have enemies who don’t think Mallorca needs animal shelters and that unwanted dogs/cats/puppies/kittens deserve to suffer and die.

Or did they just decide killing budgies was a fun way to spend the evening?

They covered their faces, so they can’t be identified, although we’re working at getting their motorbike registration number. Because of the break-in, we’re beefing up our security measures, but it’s very sad that an animal shelter should need to worry about 24-hour security. We’ve always had someone sleep overnight at the shelter, just in case of trouble; but now we’re considering overnight patrols – what do you think we should do?

Joanna (the dog which someone hang by the neck to die, that we managed to save) is improving enormously. She’s looking fantastic, is much more trusting of humans and smiles most of the time. When I think of how close to death she was when she first came to us (in the 1st photos I saw of her, I presumed she was already dead) I realise how fantastic the team at the Centro Canino is. I don’t mean me, I mean the people like Marlis, Juan and Maria who do the day-to-day hard work.

The British are falling behind in the volunteers quota at the Canino. There used to be a lot of British volunteers, now there are more Spanish and German.

So come on, don’t let the side down; please volunteer and start coming along on a regular basis (even if it’s just once a week or once a fortnight). The animals need you.

Help spread the word - we need homes for these beautiful pups!Published 16 junio 08

Dear friends of the Centro Canino,

We have new leaflets available for you to pick up from the Centro Canino and distribute wherever you can across the Island (see below).

We would be grateful if you could spread the word by letting as many people as you can, know that the Centro Canino is alive and well, and still doing its best for the needy animals of Mallorca.

Some people actually think that the refuge has been closed down. Of course it has not.

pups for adoption As you know, we are only allowed, for the moment, to house a limited number of adult dogs at the refuge in Es Pil.lari, but there is no limit to the number of puppies we can care for and find homes for.

We currently have lots of puppies of all shapes and sizes, and they are all absolutely beautiful.

We urgently need to find loving homes for them and all the adult dogs we have housed at the Son Batlet kennels and the refuge in Es Pil.lari in order to be able to help other animals.

We are constantly being called upon to take in abandoned and abused animals desperately in need of shelter.

Please help us in any way that you can, to find homes for as many of these beautiful pups as possible.

Thank-you,
Centro Canino Internacional

pups for adoption

Holland trip strengthens international tiesPublished 13 junio 08

Last weekend a number of animal protection societies gathered in Amersfoot (Holland). This had been brought about by the DIERENHULP ZONDER GRENZEN (Holland) foundation, whose representative in Mallorca is our friend and member, Marja de Leeuw. Marja, Margarita, Maria Luisa and Juan attended and represented the Centro Canino Internacional.

This was a very satisfying day as we were able to see all our dogs and their adoptive families in Holland. It’s very satisfying for us to be able to compare a ‘before’ and an ‘after’.

We were also able to exchange ideas with other associations in Spain and other countries and especially with Sesimbra (Portugal) who are geographically and culturally close to us.

We exchanged ideas with the Dutch political party PARTIJ VOOR DE DIEREN who have 2 deputies in parliament!!! This is something unthinkable in Spain AT THE MOMENT but all in good time.

Whichever way you look at it the problems at Centro Canino Internacional have crossed boundaries. We were one of the associations that attracted the most interest with offers of support that we may need at any time.

We would like to thank Ria Kuurman, president of the DZG foundation, for having invited us and for making us feel so welcome and especially for the magnificent dinner. We would also like to congratulate her on the excellent organisation and we promise to return next year.

Comments [4]

Goodbye GrisaPublished 12 mayo 08

We are sad to announce that on April 22nd, our much loved little donkey ‘Grisa’ was put to sleep by the vets.

Grisa has not been well for some time, over the last months, our vets tried everything they could to find a solution for her fading health.

Grisa undertook many types of tests and even x-rays, but there was nothing medically that the vets could do to improve her day to day health.

As those of you who met her or have just read about her know, Grisa was a lovely donkey. Good natured and friendly. When she first came to us she was in such bad health, we thought that the vets would suggest she be put to sleep immediately, her front legs were badly injured and her general condition was terrible. She had previously suffered from mistreatment and neglect.

However, after a lot of love and effort by the whole Centro Canino team (from the fundraisers, to the volunteers to the vets), Grisa pulled round and the vets said she was not in too much pain and that her quality of life was good. She particularly seemed to enjoy last summer a lot.

Unfortunately over the last few months, her health deteriorated and she was having regular check-ups with the vet. Finally the vet decided Grisa was suffering and there was no hope of improvement.

So very very very sadly, yesterday afternoon, after a final few carrots (which she enjoyed a lot), the vet administered an injection and Grisa went to sleep, anxiety-free, totally peacefully, for the last time.

We will miss her a lot. She was a lovely girl.

Save the GreyhoundsPublished 12 mayo 08

Greyhound Action Australasia urgently needs many more signatures on our petitions to ban the export of greyhounds from Australia to Asia where they suffer appalling cruelty and death.

The Centro Canino supports the banning of exporting greyhounds from Australia to Asia, please take two minutes and sign the online petition. Thanks.

Despite everything, we carry on!Published 27 febrero 08

Clarifying note from the Centro Canino Internacional with regard to the lifting of the cautionary measures.

Following various articles that have appeared in the media about the current state of affairs of the Centro Canino Internacional, we would like to point out the following:

1 Our centre cannot be closed at any time as we have a licence to hold 10 females, one male and all the puppies that are in the centre.

2 Nothing has been said at the moment about the cats, donkey and the other animals that are in our centre so they won’t be moved from where they are.

3 At any time the Town Hall may only take animals from the centre which, to their understanding, exceed the number that are permitted and this must be agreed with us.

4 Any dogs that might be taken from the centre become the responsibility of the Town Hall and will have to be housed in Son Reus or in other locations that are deemed suitable.

5 Under no circumstances will this association allow dogs to be taken to Son Reus as we consider the centre already full. This will be to their detriment and they could lose the ‘limited’ quality of life that they have.

6 Under no circumstances can dogs from Centro Canino Internacional be killed or given up for adoption without the consent of the association. There is no time limit for this either.

7 And most important of all is the fact that a judge (Dna Carmen Frigola Castillon) in her final summing up, has stated that the rights of animals whose lives are at stake due to relocation, must be respected. They deserve total respect from an advanced and modern society that cannot tolerate the sacrifice of animals that live in it.

As you can see, this is a good example of our society changing. It is becoming a place that we as animal lovers have desperately fought for for a long time. Surely the future of animal centres will be easier.

As always, thanks to all and let’s carry on!

CCI

Comentarios [7]

Judge suspends removal of animalsPublished 18 febrero 08

Due to overwhelming international outrage the animals in our care are fine… for the moment.

The judge overseeing the case has suspended the removal of the animals until she has studied all the facts.

The Centro Canino and Mallorca’s animal lovers want to say a massively BIG THANK YOU to everyone around the world for your amazing support at this difficult time. What has happened so far is definitely a victory for both animal welfare on Mallorca and for common sense and logic.

PLEASE carry on with your awareness and involvement in the plight of abused and abandoned animals anywhere. The animals at the Centro Canino truly are at the mercy of Palma Council, but are for the time being safe, happy and well, living at the Centro Canino.

The next week will be incredibly important for the Centro Canino, we hope and pray that the Centro Canino continues doing the good work it does. In 2007, we homed more than 250 dogs and 125 cats, please continue supporting us in any peaceful way possible to make sure that in 2008, 2009 and beyond we home even more.

Once again, thank you for your wonderful support, people from the USA and Canada – thank you, people from Europe thank you, People from South America, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, Israel and beyond – thank you. You’ve all been amazing. And most of all THANK YOU to our brilliant supporters from Mallorca.
Please keep emailing Palma Council with your comments, if you get a reply, please forward it to us.

All the animals are happy and full of life this morning (Monday 18th February), being taken for walks and trained to sit, stay and then run after a tennis ball and bring it back promptly.
As my mum would say ‘Not a bad life.’

THANKS FOR EVERYTHING

Comentarios [6]

We will fight on!Published 5 febrero 08

As planned, at 8 o’clock in the morning a team of police officers from Palma town hall arrived at our centre to inform us officially of the suspension of the withdrawal of animals that had been originally set for Feb 4.

We have also been informed that this withdrawal will now take place on 15 February at 11am.

Throughout this week we shall continue our legal battle and we will oppose the mayor’s decree.

We will continue to inform everybody of what happens over the next few days.

Many thanks for the hundreds of calls of support that we have received as well of thousands of emails. We would also like to thank the media for its support of our cause.

Comentarios [43]

Aina - You Have Failed Us!Published 31 enero 08

Dear Friends

As I presume you might have read in the diario de Mallorca on 4 February at 8am, Palma Town Hall intends to take our dogs to Son Reus despite it being full and the dogs there being sick. Some of the older ones will have to be sacrificed to be able to take ours.

At the moment we are trying to arrange a meeting with Aina Calvo (pictured), the mayoress of Palma although as yet we haven’t received any call. This is strange considering the fact that when she was in opposition (PSOE) she supported us and even went with us to protest against Catalina Cirer over her signing a similar decree.

In any case we must recognise that this town council is utterly ‘legalistic’. It is interfering in the affairs of an association that is doing the very job the town hall itself should be doing. It is housing dogs that have been abandoned not only in Palma but over the whole Island.

Yet these dogs are being taken off en masse to die to Son Reus by our friend and animal lover Toni Mas (of Natura Park) in an air-conditioned van. What luck!

In the end materialistic interests seem to win. Now Senora Calvo and her team, who previously supported us in defending these animals, is giving in to several neighbours. Although there are only a few of them, they must be not only very ‘important’ but also all very cruel considering everything that they are doing to us.

Whatever the case may be, rest assured that this association will not allow anything bad to happen to our dogs and cats who have already suffered by being abandoned and maltreated.

We are currently maintaining contact with various national and international associations as well as with the media (TV and radio) hoping that they will support us in our endeavours not to be ‘robbed’ of our animals.
We will keep you informed of any action we are thinking of taking in the hope that you might help us.
Juan Gil

Comentarios [11]

Help us in your weekly shopPublished 7 diciembre 07

Whenever you are doing your shopping at the local supermarket, please could you buy 1 or 2 tins of kitten food or cat food, and then whenever you next come and see us at the Centro Canino, bring the tins with you.

Here’s why.. Our felines always have plenty to eat, but we can only afford to buy bulk quantities of dry cat food, which is nutritionally balanced and pretty inexpensive. It doesn’t taste amazingly great though.

The problem is when we have kittens or cats who are underweight, malnourished or recovering from an operation or illness.

None of the cats exactly ‘rush’ to eat the dry food, they just eat it when they’re hungry.

The cats and kittens almost always prefer the tins of food. They rush over and eat the food straight away. With tins, we can feed cats individually and watch to make sure that the recovering cats/kittens that need the extra nutrition actually get to eat the right amount of food.

In an ideal world, we’d have the funds to buy tins of food as/when we need to. The fact is though, we’re on a very very tight budget and dry food is all we can afford (you try buying food for 20+ cats at a time, it costs a mini-fortune).

So PLEASE whenever you’re doing your weekly shop in Eroski, Caprabo, Mercadona or wherever – Pick up 1 or 2 tins of cat food, then bring however many tins you acquire, into us whenever you visit.

We’ll be grateful and the cats and kittens will be licking their lips with anticipation!

Thanks. Appreciate it.

Tribute to Bill BrownPublished 7 diciembre 07

Centro Canino Internacional mourns the passing of Bill Brown who, even throughout his illness, donated so much of his time for the abandoned animals in our care.

He will never be forgotten. Our thoughts are with his family.

Please support this charity salePublished 21 octubre 07

Pasatiempo’s shop in Palma is holding a Massive Fashion Sale in aid of the Centro Canino Internacional

The sale – which has been extended until Saturday 3rd November – has reductions of up to 75 per cent includes articles from the current season’s stock. Everything in the sale is being priced at just 1 euro to 20 euros. Brands include Converse, Adidas, Fly, Skunkfunk and many more.

The shop, at Calle Brossa 16, is open from 10am to 2pm and 4pm to 8pm.

Al proceeds will go to the Centro Canino, so please come along and support us.

Comments [1]

End Animal SufferingPublished 19 octubre 07

Dear Friends,

I have just read and signed the petition: “End Animal Suffering Worldwide – Sign the Petition for a Universal Declaration on Animal Welfare!”

Please take a moment to read about this important issue, and join me in signing the petition. It takes just 30 seconds, but can truly make a difference. We are trying to reach 100,000 signatures – please sign here

Once you have signed, you can help even more by asking your friends and family to sign as well.

Thank you!

Julie ford

Comments [1]

Centro Canino Open DayPublished 19 octubre 07

Once again, the Friends of the Centro Canino Internacional have shown their support and solidarity for the animals of Mallorca.

The recent Open Day at the refuge was a great success and raised more than 1000 euros for our work, caring for abandoned and needy dogs and cats in Mallorca.

Some of the animals were found new homes during the day. We wish the dogs Peluca, Lluna, Fly, Tommy, Willy and Bonny and the cats Daisy and Mono all the best with their new families.

A bring and buy sale and a tombola were among the attractions. There was also a fascinating demonstration by a top British trainer of obedient pets and personal protection dogs.

Many thanks to all who supported us on the day, and special thanks goes to Elizabeth Whitehead for organising the event.

Local football team supports Centro CaninoPublished 9 agosto 07

The local Mallorcan football team ‘Arenal’, have signed the petition (below) in support of the Centro Canino and supplied us with a framed photo of the team to display in the Centro Canino offices.

We thank them for their friendship and encouragement.

It’s good to know that so many of the real people who live in the surrounding areas are so behind everything we are doing.

Marlis is leavingPublished 31 julio 07

Marlis, our wonderful Manageress, is leaving the Centro Canino in early September and going to live in Yuma, Arizona. Obviously Mallorca isn’t quite hot enough for her!

Yuma is in the desert and daily temperatures often reach 40-45 degrees there. She says it’s a ‘dry heat’, as if that makes it all ok!

We’re going to miss her terribly. As are all the dogs, they love her.

They know she’s the best and she’s on their side. In the four years she’s been at the Centro Canino, she’s been responsible for saving a large number of cats & dogs.

She’s fantastic with the animals, has a real skill with them and is going to be hard to replace.

Saturday August 11 is her birthday and we’re having a party for her, at the Centro Canino, in the evening, please come along. She’s a very special person and we want to show her how grateful we all are, for everything that she has done for the lost, stray and abused pets in Mallorca.

Intruders target rescued birdsPublished 23 junio 07

On June 6 two of our budgies, Micky and Mini, became the latest victims of another dreadful, cowardly act of cruelty.

Two intruders broke into the Centro Canino refuge and grabbed the tiny birds from their cage. They must have been killed as masses of feathers were found all around the empty cage and outside in the road.

The budgies had been rescued by volunteers who found them in a terrible state in an abandoned building in Palma.

The attack was recorded on the security cameras at the refuge and the police are studying the footage and making enquiries in the area.

This was the latest in a series of attacks on the new animal sanctuary and a substantial reward has been offered by animal lovers and supporters of the Centro Canino for information leading to the conviction of those responsible for the atrocities.

Bath time for your dogPublished 14 junio 07

Dogs need regular washes just the same as you or I. Yes it’s true that dogs can keep themselves relatively clean – most of the time…

But every so often, they either roll in something nasty that smells like it died three years ago or go for a swim in a pond full of dirty water while running across a golf-course.

So you need to give him a bath. How big your dog is makes a big difference in where you choose to give him his bath. Small dogs can be accommodated in sinks or in the bath, but big dogs present more of a problem.

Keeping yourself relatively dry is quite easy when you’ve only got a small pet. If you are a big dog fan, be prepared to take a soaking, no matter where you choose to do the washing. If they have to put up with the indignity of being washed, trust me, your dog is sure to share the water.

Washing you dog in the bath
A detachable shower nozzle with a lengthy hose is useful when bathing your dog indoors.

Have lots of towels ready for drying and keep your carefully selected shampoo ready. For dogs with sensitive skin, have your vet recommend a brand.

Once you’ve got your dog standing in the bath, what next? Take your shower nozzle and test the water temperature to make sure it is just warm, not hot. Rinse him down good, working your free hand under the fur to get it all good and wet.

Once he’s completely soaked, take a generous handful of shampoo and work it in around his neck, over the top of his head, avoiding his face, and down his back, tail and legs. Get a good lather up, and massage his skin well.

After he’s more or less covered with suds, take the hose again and rinse him off, starting from the neck again. Rinse him very carefully; take care not to get any shampoo in his ears or eyes. Any remaining soap will irritate his skin, so make sure he’s squeaky clean before you stop showering.

Special coat conditioner is optional, but is a nice touch. Again, take care not to get his eyes and ears. Rinse thoroughly one more time, and if you are lucky, he’ll still be in the same spot he was before, allowing you to wrap him in a towel for a good pat down to absorb excess water.

Be sure to get as much water off as you can. If your dog has a short coat, a few hours of comfortable relaxation on your formerly dry, warm sofa will finish drying him off.

If he has a long, shaggy, or thick double coat, a blow-dry is in order. You need to brush out tangles from his coat, as you go along. Be gentle with him, having his fur brushed is as delicate for your dog as having your hair brushed is for you. Also – Human ordinary hair-dryers are too hot for dogs. Either buy a special dog hair-dryer (oh yes, they do exist) or keep your hair-dryer at least 10 inches away from his fur, to let the air cool-down.

Outdoor Baths
An outdoor bath is the same as above, but you need to choose a nice warm day to do it. If your dog hates very cold water, try to get him used to the water gradually.

Final Touches

Eyes
Take a warm, wet face cloth and carefully wipe around his eyes, removing any icky-sticky gloop that may have seeped into the corners. For some dogs, this is a constant task.

Ears
These need to be cleaned once a month, regardless of bath time. Take a cotton ball, or a soft cloth, dip it in an ear solution, or mineral oil, and gently wipe around the inside of his ears. Don’t go too deep; just the visible areas need cleaning. Ask your vet or pet-shop to suggest which solution or oil you need to use.

Finally – pet your dog and give him a treat, put your feet up and relax too. Well done – you’ve survived this bath time, maybe a bit wetter, but certainly cleaner.

Alternatively – Mallorca is full of dog groomers. Many pet-shops have one on-site or can recommend a local one. Prices are much cheaper than in Britain, and you can take your dog in, go shopping, have a cup of tea and a slice of cake, then go and pick your dog up. That’s good-living! Thank-you.

Stella Pugh - a tributePublished 14 junio 07

All of the Centro Canino Internacional members wish to express to the family of Snra Stella Pugh, our sorrow for their loss of such a wonderful lady.

Her beautiful singing will never be forgotten, and will live on in
all our memories. We also thank the family for their kindness in organising a collection for the abandoned animals in our care.

Juan Gil
President

Shave loses his fight for lifePublished 7 junio 07

Shave didn’t make it. After fighting for life for nine days it has been impossible to save him no matter what efforts were made.

A kidney complication made living impossible as he was suffering and had no chance of surviving, having severe internal injuries. The only option was to put him to sleep, which happened on June 4.

As you will all remember, last 27th of May a neighbour brought him to our animal shelter after witnessing how a car ran over him without stopping to help.

At first, after a few x-rays, we found his right leg broken and some other minor contusions that didn’t seem important so we proceeded to operate and wait for results. Always under observation at the vet’s clinic he showed a will to live and recovery seemed possible… until last Sunday when he had a relapse with high temperature and vomiting which made this final decision necessary.

The Centro Canino Internacional would like to thank all the staff at Euro Tierklinik in El Arenal and especially Dr Kohmann for the great job she did with Shave and the effort for trying to save his life.

We know the sorrow they feel and would like to give them encouragement to carry on with this marvellous work.
We’d also like to give special thanks to Marja who visited him daily and gave him home-made food as well as making a collection to help cover Shave’s expenses at the clinic.
The “Fundación Ayuda a los Animales sin Fronteras” from Holland sent us another collection from their members to cover medical expenses as well.
Also our member Yolanda Sorell contributed with her share.
Thanks to all,
Juan Gil

Centro Canino's 1st Open Day in 2007Published 24 mayo 07

There’s never a dull-moment here at the Centro Canino. We just want to get on with our job of trying to help a few stray abandoned or badly treated dogs and cats but with all the politics and having to deal with a group of people who claim to be neighbours, but actually live many kilometres away and behave like anti-dog jihadists, it’s all go.

So when we heard that a group of our neighbours had decided to hold a Barbeque party against the Centro Canino, we decided to hold an Open Day in the hope that any open-minded decent neighbours may want to come and look around the centre and decide for themselves.

I’m happy to report that more than 150 people came and visited the Centro Canino and that we collected a lot of signatures for our petition for us to be allowed to stay open and help the animals, plus a nice amount of money was raised via cash donations.

More chews for the dogs, that’s what I say!!

Actually most of the money raised has to go towards more basic things such as food, vet care and utility bills. Oh well….

Everyone who visited the Centro Canino for the 1st time (mainly people who live in the neighbourhood but 3-5 kilometres away) seemed very friendly, easy-going and impressed with what we have achieved.

The Neighbourhood organisation, which is against us, had quite a good turn out I have to admit, but they did have a free barbeque and free drinks. I felt quite tempted to go there myself. All we had was tortillas, quiche, crisps and Fanta. Life isn’t fair!

I expect most of the people at the Barbeque were not against the Centro Canino, but keen to have a free night out.

According to a local who came to our Open Day, many of the people at the Barbeque lived in Coll D’en Rebassa, which is over 8km away from us. As one of the mainstays of the Anti-Canino Neighbourhood organisation is that we emit ‘Bad smells’, that proves how ridiculous their argument is.

(A) our dogs are clean. (B) they’re bathed regularly. (C) their kennels are cleaned once or twice a day and (D) before we came along, the place used to be a pig-farm.

Pig-farms smell. Compared to the whiff of pigs, the air around the Centro Canino is as sweet and pure as can be.

A great bunch of children attended our event. They were from S’Aranjassa & contributed to our enjoyment by making lots of lovely drawings of the dogs, for our walls & generally by running around having fun & playing with the dogs.

I had a good look at the organisers of the Neighbourhood organisations’ barbeque and, although I’m reluctant to say this, as we really want to be friends with them sooner or later (and the sooner the better) they looked like a bunch of Mallorcan Victor Meldrews.

Quite funny actually – grumpy with too much time on their hands. I can just imagine them looking bewildered, wringing their hands, rolling their eyes and saying: “They think dogs deserve a decent life, I DON’T BELIEVE IT.”

If the neighbours decide to have another party outside our place, we will too. We’ve also doubled our security presence for the time being. Can’t be too careful. The local police have also promised to patrol the area a little more regularly too, just in case.

Finally, thank-you to everyone who came along, and next time, we’ll try to make everyone a bit more aware of when the next Open Day/evening is, so you can all come along. Thank you.

Security UpdatePublished 23 mayo 07

As part of our ongoing campaign to make the Centro Canino as safe as possible for all the dogs under our care and protection, in the last few weeks we have had installed a new series of CCTV cameras that watch and record EVERYTHING that goes on around and inside the kennels and cattery.

Security system at the Centro Canino Internacional

We already have a good number of cameras that record the daytime and nocturnal activities at the Centro Canino (see this article) these new cameras and recorders supplement the safety of all our animals.

Last year we had two attacks on the centre. The police never found the intruder, despite several of our supporters offering financial rewards.

Nowadays, we have a full time member of staff present at the Centro Canino 24 hours a day. We have more than a dozen cameras recording all activity, we have regular visits from a security patrol at night, and we have loud burglar alarms too.

The new cameras and DVD recorders have been paid for out of a separate ‘Security fund’ paid for by a Centro Canino supporter who specifically donates extra funds for security measures.

Ideally we’d like to spend all donations on looking after the animals, but we must accept that there is a man out there, or a group of men, local or not, we don’t know, we hope not; who hates dogs enough to try to kill them.

It’s one of our jobs to protect the animals that are defenceless against the wickedness of someone who enjoys inflicting suffering on dogs who’ve surely suffered enough.

The new security cameras are already operational. Thank you.

Is Your Dog Afraid of Fireworks?Published 2 mayo 07

Mallorca loves fireworks, almost every month, there’s some fiesta or other, the locals are celebrating and guess what, the activities end with the loudest, most reverberant explosions euros can buy.

Fireworks let off during these noisy celebrations send dogs all over the island scurrying for cover.

On a regular basis, the noise of the fireworks wreaks havoc on dogs and dog owners alike. Some owners are even unaware of the effect these festivities have on their pets, and bring them to the party with them.

So, first off, on behalf of your dog: Please leave your pet at home!

The day following these celebrations can be a nightmare for Mallorca’s dog shelters, due to the influx of lost pets that have fled in panic from the fireworks. Even if they live several miles away from the actual display, an animal can feel and hear the loud noises that a fireworks display blasts out. The safest and kindest thing by far, is to leave your dog safely locked inside the house with a television or radio playing to drown out the noise.

Here are some helpful hints to help your dog get through the day (and night) with as little stress as possible:

1. Leave him at home, preferably in a small room, with access to water and a favourite toy.

2. Bach’s Rescue Remedy. Give it a try. A lot of dog owners say it works brilliantly on their nervous dogs. Check out Bach’s rescue remedies and all the health issues they can help with at www.bachshop.co.uk

3. Put the television or radio on for “normal” background noise. Some dogs like this, some don’t, so experiment.

4. If you are going out and leaving your pet alone, do NOT make a big production of leaving, just get on with it and go. Making a fuss will just tell him that something is up and you are worried (and therefore he should be too).

Otherwise content happy dogs have been known to dig under fences, break through glass windows, doors, etc, to bolt free when terrified of fireworks. Please be sure your dog is secure!

With your care and plenty of distractions, your dog will get through the fireworks noise it, and soon return to his previously stable condition.

Please do remember fireworks petrify some dogs. Give your dog the love and attention he deserves. Thank-you.

Great day for Centro CaninoPublished 2 mayo 07

Voluntarios del Centro Canino Internacional

Hello everyone,

April 26th 2007 was a great day for the Centro Canino Internacional and for animal lovers in general, due to another court ruling against the decree issued by Palma Council on February 7th 2007 banning the “breeding and selling of animals” at the refuge and ordering it to be cordoned off. The previous stay of execution we were granted, therefore, remains in place until all the information is processed.

This means that no more animals can be seized.

Despite attempts by the lawyers of Palma Council and the neighbours to have the stay of execution lifted, we were able to demonstrate that we were not carrying out any kind of business activity, and much less one of breeding and selling animals.

In addition, the animals living at the refuge belong to us.

We can now concentrate on getting together all the documentation that, according to the Council, we still need to produce.

Once this is completed we should finally be able to continue our work of protecting and caring for abandoned and abused animals.

Thank you very much for your help and support

Kind Regards,
Juan Gil
President Centro Canino Internacional

Jane's prison threat recalledPublished 25 abril 07

Jane Reynolds dresses as a convict Centro Canino supporter Doris Nassauer has reminded us of the time when our founder Jane Reynolds was threatened with prison by the authorities in her battle against bureaucracy.

In a letter to Centro Canino president Juan Gil, she writes: “I remember very well the fight Jane Reynolds had years ago with them, also over the paper work, and how she was threatened with jail and would have gone.

“I still have the photo of her (above) when she dressed up in
a convicts’ uniform and the ‘iron’ ball.”

Doris says Jane would have been shocked at the current legal threats to the Centro Canino from Palma council.

“I admire you and all your workers for the work you put in to help Mallorca keep some of the poor, abandoned and abused animals safe and looked after. I sincerely hope things will turn again in your favour.”

Thank you Doris!

Dear friends of the Centro Canino InternacionalPublished 16 abril 07

We would like to inform you that after a week of meetings with Palma Council in order to try to reach an agreement concerning the removal of dogs of Centro Canino, we have been informed that due to the saturation of the Son Reus municipal dog pound, the carrying out the Mayor’s decree would be impossible.

The removal of the dogs will therefore, be discontinued, including the one planned for the 18th of April.

Likewise, the Centro Canino promises to rectify, as quickly as possible, any shortfalls that may exist in relation to the procedure of reporting on the installations and workings.

Therefore, we think we should congratulate ourselves for having achieved this agreement on behalf of the animals’ welfare, hoping that in future the local administration prove to be more sensitive towards the problem of abandoned animals.

The Centro Canino, as a civic association of Palma, will attend in Plaza Cort the invitation by the lady Mayoress, the “romeria DIUMENGE DE L’ANGEL” where we intend to take advantage to personally present her with our project in relation to the defense of animals in Palma in particular and in Mallorca in general under the Slogan:

TOGETHER TO DEFEND THE ANIMALS!!!!!

Many important political figures will be present and we will draw their attention to the fact that whenever animals are ill-treated or abandoned, there will be hundreds of people willing to go to their aid (which includes voting).

Thank you all very much – without your help it would be impossible to carry out this work.

Juan Gil
President

Comentarios [2]

They are coming for us!Published 14 abril 07

Dear animal lovers and friends of the CENTRO CANINO INTERNACIONAL

Today Friday 13th of April at 2 pm we rescued our beloved dogs Jacko, Pitufa, Negra, Pinto and Noir. They are now in the care of our members and volunteers.

However, no sooner had we collected them we were informed by Palma City Council that next Wednesday 18th of April at 4 p.m. they will be coming to seize our other dogs and haul them off to the municipal dog pound, Son Reus

We would like to thank you all for your support on 10th April and for all your calls and e-mails.

We are sorry that we are unable to answer them all.

Juan Gil
President

(The video shows Palma council coming to confiscated
the five dogs)

Comentarios [2]

'I Saw a Dog Today Who Did Not Want to Die'Published 13 abril 07

Thank-you all so much for your kind comments and offers of support over the past few difficult days.

Animals taken away Regarding the dogs in our care that are still up for adoption – If you are interested in adopting a dog, you are very welcome to visit the Centro Canino between 10am-2pm Monday-Saturday, or give Marlis a call to arrange a time. Tel (+34) 971 261 149 – 699 835 995

The dogs who’re currently still at the Centro Canino and the five dogs that were seized by Palma Council are not in any danger of being destroyed. We are monitoring the situation very conscientiously & you have our absolute guarantee that no harm will come to any dogs under the Canino’s care, whether they’re still at the Centro or being held at Son Reus.

The ‘Son Reus five’ (as people have began to call them) are being rescued and re-homed and taken away from that horrible place.

The whole problem however is exasperated by our understanding is that Son Reus is currently full (so why closing down another dog shelter seems a good idea to Palma Council is beyond me).

There are a lot of wonderful friendly lovely dogs at Son Reus who urgently need homes before they get the lethal injection, So, & this is only my personal opinion, I think maybe it’d be better, for the time being, if you want to adopt a dog, you should go to the Son Reus municipal dogpound & try & find a dog there. Their healthy dogs face extermination. Our dogs are guaranteed safety.

Someone sent me a very sad poem recently, a young girl, after visiting Son Reus, the first lines were…
I saw a dog today
Who did not want to die

It’s tragic, but Palma Council runs Son Reus & Son Reus destroys dogs that are not adopted within a couple of weeks. If that’s their policy we cannot change it overnight. We disagree with it, but we cannot change it.

Why they try so hard to stop the Centro Canino offering a more compassionate caring shelter for dogs is a mystery. A question we’ve put to them & would like you to as well.

Healthy Centro Canino dogs will never be euthanised. The 32 dogs from the Centro Canino that have been in all the newspapers, will be fine.
Maybe a bit traumatised by all this fuss, but fine. We will find them good homes and keep them out of harms way.

Palma Council seem to be using destructive methods regarding the Centro Canino.

I urge them to be more conciliatory and to help the Canino create somewhere beautiful & caring for abandoned dogs.

If the Centro Canino is doing something wrong, can’t the council sit down with us & help us do it right? I don’t think the Centro Canino is doing anything wrong. We have a fully valid license to keep animals on the land & that, quite simply, is what we do.

It doesn’t trade or breed. Where’s the problem? Please make a
point of phoning Palma Council and ask.

All Centro Canino dogs are microchipped and have private owners. They are not doing any harm. They’re good dogs.

Thank-you for your time & concern over this matter. We want to use this opportunity to help make Mallorca as a whole, and Palma in particular, a better safer place for dogs. Not just the 32 dogs in our care at the moment, they’re just the tip of the Iceberg.

The Centro Canino running at proper capacity & without Palma Council putting deliberate obstacles in our way, can rehome up to eight hundred dogs a year.

That’s a lot of dogs!

We’re fighting not just for our current 32 dogs but also for the next 800 & the next 800 & so on. Please continue to support us. It’s only with your help that we’ve got this far.

PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE – Call Palma council again, email them or fax them, make them take notice. Make them aware that
you are bearing witness to their ethics.

Palma Council perhaps see lost, injured or abandoned dogs as vermin to be destroyed. We see them as prospective loving pets, who will give love, loyalty & protection for years to come.

The more we can make Palma council realize that this is the 21st century, this is modern Europe & that people care about dogs, the better it will be not just for the Centro Canino but for all the dog shelters on the Island & for all the dogs that need help.

2007s lost dogs, 2008s lost dogs, 2009s lost dogs & so on.

There are no excuses; we owe it to the dogs to insist to Palma Council that we are allowed to carry on.

Once again thank-you so much.

URGENT! Please read thisPublished 10 abril 07

Wickedness comes in many shapes and forms, but maybe I’ve been incredibly blessed because until today, Tuesday 10th April 2007, I’ve never seen wickedness like this.

The dogs who’ve been rescued by the Centro Canino had been saved from a life of misery & suffering. Until today they were living happily in clean purpose-built kennels, waiting for the day when someone would adopt them, take them home & let them give and receive love.

Instead, Palma council arrived today & confiscated five of our dogs. In all probability five more will go tomorrow, five more on Thursday… You get the idea, within a week all our hard work will have been for nothing.

Why? Are the dogs we’ve rescued being badly looked after by us? Not a chance, they get food, water & almost as importantly, love & affection, our team of volunteers groom the dogs, play with the dogs, walk the dogs.

Never believe anything a politician says. The excuses & reasons we’ve had from Palma Council have been a (very unfunny) joke.

If they cared even just a minute bit about family pets, they could have saved our dogs from this terrible fate.

I read an interesting article recently about a Parisian woman, who during the Second World War, bumped into Hermann Goerring (the Nazi Reich Marshal) in Hermes. He was buying gloves & was very courteous towards her.

The woman went on to say that one must never confuse culture for morality. Goerring was a cultured man who loved opera & fine wines. He was almost a revolting, terrible, blood-thirty inhumane man.

Palma council may show culture. They put on concerts and sponsor operas, but they’re showing their true face here. They have NO COMPASSION. They have NO MORALITY.

Please be assured we are doing everything possible to get things sorted & to be able to continue rescuing dogs that have been mistreated. Palma council want to make it hard for us. We’re just going to have to work even harder to stop them.

Please email Palma council at batlia@a-palma.es and let them know how you feel about them. I don’t actually think they care (many of my friends have emailed them, and none have ever had a reply); but it doesn’t hurt to try.

Today, just like the Holocaust films we’ve seen at the cinema & on TV, Palma Council made their ‘Selection’. Which dogs shall be the first to be taken to a life of sadness & imminent death?

Tomorrow maybe, they’ll be back for the second selection. Why? Because they can. Because they have power on their side & policemen with guns behind them.

If you had seen the sad, scared faces of our dogs today being forced onto the truck bound for Son Reus, your heart would be as sad as mine.

Dogs are man’s best friend. I’m not saying all of them deserve to live in five-star comfort, but none of them deserve to be taken from a comfortable home where they’re doing no harm, and taken to a Council depot where they’re ignored & only given a very short time to live.

*Palma needs to wake up & join the 21st century. Deliberate unprovoked cruelty is not acceptable. The Mayor should be ashamed. *

*Follow the story in the Majorca Daily Bulletin*

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hxH9tCRFah8

Comentarios [4]

Help, my dog is missing!Published 29 marzo 07

No time to waste! If your dog has gone missing, these are the things you need to be doing straight away!

Flyers/leaflets – Use your most current photo of your dog, and use very large lettering that will catch the eye of drivers with the words “MISSING”.
Include your immediate contact information, address, cell phone number, home phone number, and numbers to call if you can not be reached. Describe your dog, but leave out some basic identifying feature if you are offering a reward (if your dog has a strange white patch on her chest, just use “black with white patch”), to prevent the unscrupulous from trying to take
advantage of you. Make sure you translate the leaflet into Spanish and if possible German too. If you can’t speak Spanish or German, visit a free translation website such as www.freetranslations.com and you can do an immediate ‘basic’
translation, which may not make perfect grammatical sense, but will be good enough to get your message across.
Tape your leaflet everywhere. Telephone poles, mailboxes, under windshield wipers of vehicles in your neighbourhood.
Call the police – local or Guardia Civil. The police officers on duty will often hear first if the worst happens and the dog has been hit by a car. To be honest, the Spanish Police aren’t that interested in missing dogs, but it never hurts to try.
Take out Newspaper Ads – The Euronews and Mallorca Daily Bulletin offer very cheap rates for ‘Lost Dogs’ ads. Also try the Spanish Mallorcan Dailies.
Visit Son Reus – Don’t know how to reach them? Call at your police station, for directions
Make a point of meeting your mail delivery person and handing them a copy of your poster. They might spot your dog on their rounds. Do the same with the rubbish collectors and the utility department meter.
In this day in the age of computers, it’s easy to make up your own business cards. Make up cards with the dogs picture, the date lost, phone numbers . . . and hand those out to children, people out walking their dogs, running, riding bikes etc. Sometimes they throw away flyers, where they’ll keep a business card.
You need to think like your dog. What does she like? Where would she be most likely to head? Is there another house in the neighbourhood similar to yours? She might be there. If she’s crossed a street, she might have a visual barrier preventing her (in her mind) from returning. Follow the lay of the land – which way would you be most likely to go if you were her? If you have another dog, put it on a lead and see which way it’s inclined to
head, to get a general idea.
Try writing big red letters on poster “CHILD’S BELOVED PET” – Maybe you’ll tug at someone’s heartstrings if they think the dog belongs to a child.
Tape one of those large posters to the back of your vehicle (and your friend’s), so everywhere you go, “people” know “somebody” is still looking for this dog, as is not going “to just go away!”
Visit all the vets in your local area & ask them to display your leaflet. Check in the Yellow Pages and send leaflets to all the vets on your part of the island, up to say, a 30-mile radius.
Visit all the local dog shelters in person – as often as possible. Don’t just call; often a dog is misrepresented as a different breed altogether, ask to see ALL animals. I f visiting Son Reus, ask to see the dogs at the back who are awaiting euthanisation.
Hand out leaflets and/or cards with the information to everybody at your local dog park, or any other popular dog area. Including all the local pet shops.
Very important things to remember – If your dog has been frightened into running, she might not come running back to you, even when she hears your voice calling. This is why it is very important to listen carefully for whimpering, whining, and to shine your torch underneath porches, vehicles, and other potential hiding spots. Don’t count on a spot being too small, either! It’s surprising how tight a space a terrified dog can squeeze into.
The good news is – dogs who go missing are usually found safe & well within 24 hours. Quite often wet & in my experience usually with a guilty but happy look on their face.

So keep optimistic, do everything possible to jog peoples memories in case they’ve seen your dog, offer a reward, visit the dog shelters, hand out leaflets, and keep your fingers crossed. Hopefully she’ll be home soon.

If you can think of any other ways that I haven’t mention to help find a missing dog, let me know and I’ll add them. Thanks.

Best of luck.

Saving Joana – someone tried to hang her by the neckPublished 23 marzo 07

What was the point of it? What was the purpose behind it? What kind of sick mind could perpetrate an obscene act like this?

Sick people with sick minds are everywhere, and Majorca has its fair share, but hanging a healthy dog so that it can die a
long-suffering painful death is abnormality to the point of sadistic insanity.

For a human to express their feelings and inadequacies in this way is disgraceful and whoever is responsible has a cast-iron claim on the first vacancy in a psychoatric ward.

These photographs give you an idea of the terrible condition Joana was in, when she first arrived at the Centro Canino on February 23rd 2007.

Joana is a wonderful beautiful dog with a fantastic personality. She was found in the Son Olivaret area. She’s a Majorcan Shepherdess dog & does not have an identity chip or any form of identification.

Some local residents from Son Olivaret had heard Joana’s whines, whimpers & cries for several days, but despite searching, they couldn’t find where the cries were coming from.

Basically, someone had tried to murder the dog by hanging her by the neck, dangling in the air, with just the tips of her paws/claws touching the ground, and just about balancing her.

When we first found Joana, as I said, she was in a terrible condition. Her neck was literally red raw & oozing blood; she’d struggled so hard to get free. She was in a state of semi-consciousness as we freed her & immediately took her to the vet. At this point, I don’t think any of us expected her to live.

The vet however, was optimistic that Joana could be saved – She was sedated & medication administered.

The fantastic news is – Joana is now making a great recovery. She’s looking better every day – see right – and the last time I was at the shelter, I just passed her by and patted her on the head, thinking she was a new arrival. I didn’t even recognise her, she looks that much better.

The Centro Canino wants to thank the residents in Son Olivaret for contacting us, and caring for animals. As you know, we do not receive any sort of State funding, so everything we did and are doing for Joana, and everything we do for all the dogs & cats we try to help – is all thanks to you and your help and donations.

Please continue to support us in any way you can, so that we can do even more for dogs such as Joana.

We want to ensure dogs such as Joana have a future. Their future honestly does depend on You. Please hep us help them. Your help makes all the difference – Send a donation today. PLEASE.

Comentarios [2]

How to be a great dog ownerPublished 23 marzo 07

Great Dog Ownership means you being the best owner/friend to your dog that you can be. There’s a lot more to owning a dog than just providing ‘food, shelter and a bowl of water’.

Great Dog Ownership is the obligation dog owners have to incorporate their dogs into the community, being a good neighbour, and providing for the needs of their dogs, however varied those needs may be.

You’re in charge of:

Realising that a pet is for LIFE, and dedicating yourself to the life of your dog.
Putting the effort into proper care of your dog (proper veterinary care, vaccinations, de-worming, proper feeding).
Learning all you can about proper feeding, making healthy choices. Your dogs’ health is affected by what they eat every bit as much as yours is. You are what You eat. Your dog is what You feed him/her.
Investing in proper health care throughout your dog’s life.
Training your dog through gentle means to be a good canine citizen.
Training your dog not be a nuisance, and helping him achieve that goal.
Teaching your children to respect animals and not abuse them through play.
Obeying the laws set for your protection and the protection of others, even when your dog “doesn’t need a lead & is as good as gold around other dogs”. By not obeying the laws, you are only ruining it for everyone else.
Not breeding your dog because he is “so cute”.
Coming to terms with the fact that not everybody likes dogs, and asking yourself, what can you do to ensure that your dog is likable, even to these sad people?
Doing your part to help lessen the pet overpopulation problem of dogs in Mallorca, and keeping your intact dog at home and away from other intact animals, or neutering him or her to prevent future health issues.
Teaching other humans how to interact with your dog.
Providing your dog with a family and a home, not just food and shelter. Dogs are very very social, and isolation from the family will result in an unhappy, and ultimately, unhealthy dog.
Holding yourself, as the dog owner, liable for whatever damage your dog does, and taking steps to rectify it.

Your job is to help you dog have a happy life and in return, your dog will reward you with loyalty, adoration and friendship.

Thank-you for your interest in being a Great Dog Owner. Now make us (& your lucky dog) proud!!

People should take more care of their dogsPublished 22 marzo 07

Britons are being urged to look after their dogs more diligently following the release of a new survey which is a ‘tail’ of woe as far as their pets’ health is concerned.

Veterinary charity PDSA’s latest report shows that over 20% of dogs in the UK are now classified as obese, compared to just 17 per cent four years ago.

Dental problems are also being increasingly experienced by our nations dogs, reaching 27 per cent in 2006 compared to just 21 per cent in 2003.

Pet owners in the north-east may be most fundamentally failing when it comes to looking after their dogs, with over a quarter of pets believed to be overweight.

Also, while a dog is supposed to be a man’s best friend, owners in Northern Ireland are not being empathetic enough, with over 40% of dogs in the region suffering from dental problems.

“Our data confirms there is a continued need for PDSA to highlight the benefits of better pet health care and to encourage owners to take more of an interest in their pet’s diet and exercise regime,” said Elaine Pendlebury, senior veterinary surgeon at PSDA.

For us Brits who live over here in Majorca the message is clear. Even if we already think we’re good pet-owners, lets all ask ourselves if we can do an even better job. Do you overfeed your dog? Could the family pooch do with more exercise? Do you take him/her to the vet every 12months? Are all vaccinations up to date? Is he/her chipped? Does the vet agree he/she is the correct weight?

Simple? You bet it is. Take good care of your dog & enjoy their company, loyalty and affection for years to come. Thank-You.

Cats & allergiesPublished 25 enero 07

Do You love the idea of owning a cat? Are You afraid that You have allergies that would prevent You being able to cope with a cat living in your home?

Most cat allergies are caused by ‘dander’. Microscopic flakes of dried saliva that hang on to the cat’s fur and then disperse into the air.

Don’t despair! Unless your allergies are of the seriously serious nature – if living with a cat and enjoying a cat’s friendship and company would improve your day-to-day quality of life, here are some good tips to enable you to own a cat without having to deal with the constant red sore eyes & runny blocked nose!

1. Find a non-allergic friend or housemate who will brush the cat every day and bathe him every week. What? They don’t like the idea of washing a cat? Can’t say I blame them. A perfectly good alternative is to buy and use a micro-cloth, wet it, wring it out and wipe the cat all-over. There’s a great product called ‘Allerpet’, which is available at www.allergiesplus.com which removes allergens from a cat’s coat and skin. It’s 100% non-toxic and 80% of people with cat-related allergies who’ve tried it, found it virtually totally effective.

2. When choosing a cat, try to pick one which has shorter hair, as opposed to long luscious hair. Ask at the Centro Canino for advice.

3. Get your vet to supply you with a spray for your cat’s coat, that will minimise the dander. If they don’t have one in stock, get them to order it in, or go on to the internet, type the words ‘cat allergies’ and buy the spray over the net. In fact, if you suffer in general from allergies, visit a site called www.drivensnow.co.uk – they have a great range of allergy products, including ‘It’s me or the Cat!’, which will greatly reduce allergens produced by your cat, as well as bringing down the levels of pollen and dust mites in your home.

4. Don’t let your cat into your bedroom and definitely, definitely definitely, don’t let them sleep on your bed.

5. If your home has fitted-carpets, if/when you can afford to – replace them with hardwood floors or tiles. Likewise, replace curtains with solid blinds where possible. What we’re aiming for here is to make it as hard as possible for the cat dander to stick around. Rugs are pretty bad too.

6. Wash your bedding at the maximum (boil) temperature.

7. Vacuum your home as often as possible. Preferably with a vacuum cleaner fitted with a ‘Hepa’ filter. El Corte Ingles will know what you’re asking for!

8. Buy a Hepa air-filter. Whether you own a cat or not, if you’re prone to allergies a good air-filter will probably benefit you enormously in general. They’re great for dealing with pollen and dust mites. Quality air-filters even help protect you from air-born bacteria and viruses. Prices start at around 220 euros. If you can’t find what you need in Palma, visit www.breathingspace.co.uk

9. Minimise the quantity of overstuffed furniture in your home.

10. Once a month use a steam-vapour cleaner to clean your home. Steam cleaners enable you to clean thoroughly and destroy mould spores, dust mites, bacteria and cat allergens, in a chemical-free way

11. Wipe down walls and flat-surfaces often.

12. Wipe your hands as soon as possible after playing with your cat, and whatever you do, don’t rub your eyes after stroking the cat. That’s a recipe for disaster!

Overall – if you love cats but have allergies, you can probably find a balance that means you can still own a cat. Come along and visit the Centro Canino and let’s see what we can do. Thanks!

World Day for Animal Rights in PalmaPublished 15 diciembre 06

Photographs by Serge Cases
Courtesy of Ultima Hora

Rain failed to dampen spirits when the Centro Canino Internacional took part in the World Day for Animal Rights in Palma on Sunday December 10.

Activities including stalls, children’s competitions etc, took place in Paseo Maritimo.

Five dogs from the Centro Canino refuge took part in a special ‘fashion’ show. They behaved very well and are all waiting for families to offer them new homes.

Dogs for adoption at the World Day for Animals It was a good day and didn’t rain until 1.30, when it suddenly poured down! We sold a number of Centro Canino T-shirts, badges and other items in aid of the refuge.

Very importantly, lots of signatures were collected to be sent to the Spanish Government demanding a review of the inadequate, and in some areas almost non-existent, animal protection laws in Spain.

Everyone had a great time – people and dogs – and we had a visit from ‘Sushi’ who spent more than two years with us at the old refuge. He now has a wonderful home with a family who adore him.

All in all a lovely day out, but none of us forgot about the pain and suffering inflicted on animals by humans throughout the world.

Also taking part in the day were SOS Animal, Amics dels Animals Esporlas, la Protectora de Animales y Plantas and others.

Why are more black cats up for adoption than any others?Published 5 octubre 06

Black cats have an undeserved reputation

Black cats are associated with myths - picture Emiliano Spada, Italy

You’ve heard the stories and you know the supposed superstitions regarding Friday the 13ths and black cats and you’re probably 99.% sure that myths are just myths.

However, the reputation about black cats are shared by many cultures around the world. For instance, millions of British people believe that Friday the 13th is an unlucky day.

Irrational fears about the imagined dangers of this day usually affect only those individuals holding the conviction. When Friday October 13th comes around, some people won’t go into work and they probably won’t organise a trip or plan a special occasion.

For instance, I know a lot of people who wouldn’t chose to fly Palma-Britain on Friday October 13th and would prefer to fly on Thursday the 12th or Saturday 14th. It doesn’t make sense and we know it, but there’s something about Friday 13ths, walking under ladders and other certain superstitions that have been ingrained in us since youth.

It’s sad, but the long-held myths about black cats in several cultures can have serious, often deadly, consequences for these dark-furred felines.

Superstitions in the West about cats, and about black cats in particular, are of quite recent origin. The ancient Egyptians worshipped the cat in the form of the goddess Bastet. Statuettes of superior looking Egyptian cats can be seen today in most museums around the world. Wearing an earring and maybe even a jeweled collar, they sit upright, tail wrapped around their body, gazing into eternity.

In Roman times, cats were considered sacred and their popularity spread around Europe. Then, by the 17th century, cats in most parts of Europe began to be associated with the supernatural and witchcraft in particular.

In several countries cats were subjected to horrendous cruelty. Black cats have, more than other felines, been mistreated. Even today, legends about “unlucky” black cats are widespread in many European countries and in the United States, whereas in other cultures, such as England and Japan, they’ve usually been cherished for the good luck they are believed to bring.

Bonita - Picture: Ole Jørgen Bratland & Gisele Jaquenod

It seems that black cats are particularly in danger around Halloween when they receive a very bad press – they are depicted looking malevolent or bewitching and crafty in spooky drawings and cards, or shown sitting alongside witches on flying broomsticks.

Many animal rescue shelters have to implement policies to protect black cats from potential harm by forbidding their adoptions until well after Halloween.

Also, many usually rational people will not consider adopting a black cat, which means they remain in rescue-shelters longer than their more colourful brothers and sisters.

In addition, they are often considered plain or dull.

It’s time that the groundless superstitions about black cats are laid to rest for once and for all.

All staff and volunteers at animal shelters need to work hard to counteract the negative reputation of these sleek, ebony cats. We need to try to encourage potential adopters to look past the outward appearance of every cat, and to focus on its individuality, personality and wonderful qualities.

It’s fascinating to note that new scientific research has shown that black cats may actually be more fortunate than their fairer relatives. To quote from New Scientist Magazine ”... black coats may have evolved separately many times in different species of cat – indicating that dark fur has a survival benefit. Furthermore, the mutations leading to a black coat are in the same gene family as those involved in human diseases like Aids, so it may be that black cats are more resistant to disease than others.”

A black coat is also a benefit as hunting camouflage, giving the black cat an evolutionary advantage.

Animal-shelters in Britain, Spain and the rest of the world, are seemingly always home to an overlarge quantity of beautiful black cats and kittens, who are only waiting for a change of luck. So, please, let’s throw superstition to the wind and take a leaf out of Groucho Marx’s book when he said: “A black cat crossing your path signifies…
…that it’s going somewhere.”
Thank-you.

Alex Brooke
October 5th 2006

Keep Your Pets Nice and Cool This SummerPublished 10 agosto 06

SAY ‘NO’ TO A HOT DOG & ‘YES’ TO A COMFORTABLE HAPPY DOG!

Guess what it’s hot outside. In Mallorca? Surprising eh?! Every year, we say the same thing ‘I don’t remember it being this hot last year.’ The heat always comes a bit of a shock. So what do us humans do? We take off our winter coats and heavy clothes, wearing shorts & loose cotton all summer long. We stay in t cool air-conditioned buildings, we head to the pool or sea for a swim, and we drink lots of cool water. Seems obvious? As responsible pet owners, we know not to leave our pets in cars (even on mildly warm days!) or stuck out in the sun without access to shade. But here’re some more “in-depth” tips to keep our pets as cool and comfortable as possible for those times we must leave our pets as we go to work or other appointments?

Just having shade and a bowl of water may not be enough in a severe heat wave when the temperature’s up in the 30s. When it is very warm, the water dish doesn’t have to be in the sun to heat the water up enough to a degree that means your pet may not drink it.

For example, I have friends who keep chickens and geese and they require a lot of water to drink all year round. They would’t want to find out, but my friends suspect quite seriously that their poultry would die of thirst before drinking warm water. Dogs and cats vary in their sense of taste/temperature, but fresh cool water is of course, the top choice for all animals.

In no real order, here are some easy tips to ensure that your pet stays cool this summer and avoids any possible emergency situations, such as heatstroke.

Add ice to your pet’s water dish to keep water cooler longer

A “bath” without soap. Use a garden hose to wet down your dog or use a cool, very wet towel to wet down your cat for evaporative cooling. Once animals figure this out, many enjoy this quick water cool down.

For animals that love the water, an inexpensive child’s pool makes an excellent “on demand” swimming pools for pets. Caution is advised – make sure that the pets are able to use the pool without risk of drowning (keep a special ‘careful’ eye on puppies and children). My friend’s geese adore their kiddie pool & watching them using it can be a real pleasure.

Setting up a sprinkler works well for some animals. This keeps the water running and cool, allowing for a fresh water source on demand. Observe your pet to see how they react to a sprinkler before assuming everything is fine.

If you will be walking with your pet, remember that while paw pads are “tough” they are also sensitive, and can be burned while walking on hot pavement and tar. If possible, walk on grass or dirt, and check your pet’s paw pads to make sure there isn’t any redness or pain.

Good grooming is important. Speak with a groomer or vet to find out what is best for your pet. A full shave may not be the answer, depending on your pet’s coat/bread

If your pet must be outside, make sure that shade is available at all times. While home, be sure to check the area your pet is in – as the sun changes, is the shade still readily available?

Regarding those unpredictable hot summer thunderstorms we have – Is your pet safe? If you have to leave your pet alone, please, if possible, arrange to have a friend or neighbour check on your pet during extreme weather (heat and storm activity) to make sure they haven’t done anything out of the ordinary due to stress or fear that could risk injury or heat-related problems. For example, overheating due to excitement or stress (barking, jumping), knocking over the water dish, getting trapped somewhere trying to escape thunder, etc.—these are all scenarios that can happen when animals are acting unpredictably due to fright or stress.

Finally do remember that ‘light’ coloured dogs are usually more prone to sunburn than dark coloured dogs. Don’t let your pet burn, it’s as painful for them as it is for us.

ENJOY THE REST OF THE SUMMER. Thanks.

Cats - reasons not to declawPublished 10 julio 06

If you’re considering declawing your cat, please read this. It‘ll only take a moment, and will give you valuable information to help you take your decision.

First, you should know that declawing is pretty much an outdated procedure. It’s something people do for their convenience without realising what actually happens to their beloved cat.

In England, Italy, France, Sweden and Portugal (plus many other countries) declawing is termed “inhumane” and “unnecessary mutilation.”

Before you decide to declaw your cat, there’re some important facts you should know. Declawing is nothing like a pedicure. It’s surgery. Your cat’s claw is not a toenail. It is actually closely connected to the bone. Declawing is actually an amputation of the last joint of your cat’s “toes”.

When you realise that, it becomes clear why declawing is not a humane act. It’s a painful surgery, with a painful recovery period. Remember during the recuperation time, your cat will still have to use its feet to walk, jump, and scratch in its litter box regardless of the pain it is experiencing.

No cat lover would doubt that cats suffer pain. They hide it well. Not only are they proud, they instinctively know that they are at risk when in a weakened position, and by nature attempt to hide it.

Your cat’s body is perfectly designed to give it the agility and beauty that is unique to felines. Its claws are an important part of this design. When declawed, the cat is deprived of its primary defence, leaving it prey to predators if it ever escapes outdoors.

Please do not declaw your pet. Rather, find a humane vet who 100% honestly cares about cats and ask his advice. There are perfect alternatives, which don’t involve cruelty to your pet. Thank you.

Toys/food donationsPublished 30 junio 06

Big favour to ask you, the next time you’re in Carrefour, Eroski or wherever you do your shopping, please consider picking up a packet or two of extra dog or cat food – just For Us… well for the animals actually.

Even better, a few chews or toys would be incredibly appreciated. Bring them along when you come and visit us at the Central Canino in Es Pil-lari and see how happy the dogs or cats are to receive them.

Have you ever been up to Son Reus (the council run dog-shelter a few km north of Palma)? One of the saddest facts there is that the dogs are left alone with no toys, no chews, nothing. Basic food and water that’s it… Sort of makes you want to blame George Bush.

Animals love entertainment. They need a bit of preoccupation. A few euros on a few toys won’t make much difference to you, but for the animals in our care, it means a lot.

So please, please, please – buy and donate some food and/or toys. That’s all it takes to make a dog more delighted or a cat more contented. Thank you.

Comentarios [2]

Lifejackets for sea-dogsPublished 26 junio 06

Own a boat? Considering taking your 4-legged friend onboard? One of our members highly recommends the dogs lifejackets from www.lifejackets.co.uk, although the company is based in Britain, they’re happy to ship to Mallorca.

A lot of dogs love the water and enjoy messing about in boats, but safety has to come first and a lifejacketed dog is a safe dog. We strongly recommend your dog wears a lifejacket whenever you take it out on the seven seas… Or just afloat in Portals. Thank you.

Update from the VolunteersPublished 21 junio 06

Message from the Volunteers Committee

Volunteer at the Centro Canino Once we are open again, every one of the lovable dogs and cats awaiting adoption at the Centro Canino, Mallorca, will receive safe refuge, extensive medical care and abundant amounts of love.

At our state-of-the-art Animal Center, dogs will enjoy spacious
“apartments” in blocks with state-of-the-art soundproofing.

Cats will reside in deluxe kitty “lofts”. Dogs will be heading out on daily walks with Dog Walker volunteers, while cats are going to be visited “in house” by Cat Socialiser volunteers who will brush, pet and play with them.

Centro Canino Adoption Volunteers and Adoption Centre staff will return to the job they did so well in our old home on Calle Jesus, in Palma city, of matching potential owners with cats and dogs suitable to their lifestyles.

It is the aim of the Canino Centro’s Adoption Outreach programme to take shelter pets to shopping centres, business districts and community events so that the animals can be seen by more potential adopters.

One we have reopened properly we will be working harder than ever to re-home abandoned and unloved dogs and cats.

Comentarios [2]

Dogs and the SummerPublished 16 junio 06

Just a reminder now that the hot weather is well and truly with us.

Please make sure that you never leave your dog in the car with the windows up. The consequence could so easily mean your dog will die from heat exposure.

Even if you usually take your dog everywhere with you, in this summer weather it’s kinder to leave him at home, in the shade, with a full bowl of water.

If you really want to take your dog out with you, make sure he’s not left in the car, or if he is, that it’s just for a few moments, and that the windows are open enough to let plenty of fresh air in. Also please ensure he has regular access to water.

Thank you.

Children and dogs - a guidePublished 16 junio 06

Your children and the dogs that they meet

The heartwarming bond between a dog and a child is the stuff of Hollywood legend. Remember the classic Lassie stories or the film “Benji.” Dogs and children can develope rich, rewarding, bonding, longlasting, memorable relationships, but things aren’t quite as simple in real life as they are on the silver screen.

A Basic GuideTo Children and Pets

Because young children are down at dog level, interactions between kids and dogs can pose special risks. Children may unintentionally do the wrong things around dogs. They may scream, jump, flap their arms, fall down, run around or make sudden movements. This normal kid behavior can frighten a dog. At its worst, it resembles the actions of a wounded animal and can trigger a dog’s predatory instincts.

If you are uneasy about children around dogs, there are steps you can take to avoid problems. First, remind kids that dogs are animals. Real-life dogs aren’t toys, and they’re not like the dogs children see in movies and cartoons.

Teach your children learn a few basic easy-to-follow dog-safety rules:

Never approach an unfamiliar dog that is not on a lead
If you want to pet a dog, first check to see if he’s on a lead
Ask the person holding the lead if you may pet the dog.
Then “ask” the dog for permission: Call him in a friendly kind gentle voice and give him a chance to smell your hand.
If the dog doesn’t come when you call, don’t try to pet him.
If he does come, be gentle and move very slowly. Quick, jerky movements are scary to a dog.
Pet the dog on his shoulder or back, not on his head or tail.
Never, ever tease a dog.
If an unfamiliar dog approaches you, don’t run. Stand completely still until the dog goes away.
If you add a dog to your family, start things off on the right foot. First impressions are very important. From the beginning, have your child deliver the things your dog really loves – meals, treats or his lead when it’s time for a walk. That way he learns that good things happen when your child is around.
Teach your children not to startle the dog or handle him roughly. Tell them to be careful about approaching him when he’s eating, sleeping or chewing a bone. At the same time, get your dog used to being touched, grabbed and hugged. Train him to relax when people go near his food bowl or toys. Supervise all dog-child interactions. If either the dog or the child gets too boisterous, give them a break from their game.
Just because your dog is fine with your kids doesn’t mean he won’t have problems with an unfamiliar child. Other children may not know how to behave around dogs, or your dog may be spooked by strangers.
Never leave your children’s playmates alone with your dog, and be careful when your dog is out in public. If he isn’t friendly to all strangers, or if he tends to act up on lead, don’t let unfamiliar children approach him. When in doubt, stay on the side of caution. Say: “You’d better not come near my dog. He might bite.” It may sound harsh, but better to be safe than sorry.

These guidelines aren’t meant to take the fun out of life with dogs.
Learning how to interact with dogs is simply a normal part of growing up – like learning how to cross the street. With a few basic precautions, children and dogs can be safe, happy friends. Thank you.

Spay/neuter is best for petsPublished 18 mayo 06

There are a number of compelling reasons to spay or neuter your pet

The Centro Canino strongly advocates having pets neutered/spayed. Evidence shows that altered (dogs/cats of both sexes that have been neutered/spayed) live longer and healthier lives. To pet lovers, that alone is a good enough reason to go ahead with the procedure. Consider:

Spay/neuter surgery has health and behavior benefits. It removes reproductive organs that often cause dogs and cats to have medical problems in later life.
Spaying reduces the risk that a female dog or cat will suffer from mammary tumors and uterine cancer. It eliminates the risk of complications from pregnancy.
Neutered males won’t develop prostate problems or testicular cancer.
Neutered dogs and cats are more relaxed pets because they are not driven to mate and they are less inclined to defend territory. * They will not fight as much with other animals. They are not as likely to roam, so there’s less chance they will get lost, injured or killed.
Neutered dogs are less apt to urinate in the house.
Neutered cats are less inclined to spray.
Neutered dogs have fewer behavior issues.

Contrary to popular belief, neutering does not spoil your pet’s personality, nor does it make your pet fat and lazy.

Spay/neuter surgery also has humane benefits. It saves lives by preventing unwanted litters and homeless animals. There are far too many unwanted dogs and cats on the island. If your pet became pregnant, have you thought about how you’d find good caring homes for the litter it produced?

It’s a myth that cats and dogs should have one litter before spaying. Motherhood does not make for a better pet and having a litter doesn’t necessarily result in a calmer dog or cat.

There are advantages to altering at an early age:

Early spay/neuter surgery ensures that a dog or cat won’t reproduce.
Animals altered at an early age seem to recover more quickly and painlessly that those altered later on.
There is less surgical trauma, faster recovery and fewer complications with early spay/neuter surgery.

Still not convinced?

Please pay your vet a visit and ask his/her opinion. A pet is a family member and you obviously want what is best for your family. Conclusive evidence shows that spayed/neutered pets live longer safer lives.

Comentarios [2]

Care and feeding of feral catsPublished 13 mayo 06

The Centro Canino was recently emailed this article, written by Brenda Benjamin of Middlesex, England. Although on a personal level we think that what Mrs Benjamin says makes total sense, it is possibly against the law to feed feral cats in Mallorca, so we cannot endorse her suggestions. However, considering the time and effort she made in consulting vets (in Mallorca and in the UK) and writing/submitting the article, we feel that conveying her recommendations is the least we can do.

There are far too many wild/feral cats in Mallorca. People are trying very hard to reduce the numbers but it’s an ongoing struggle. Perhaps at this point in your life you might be prepared to do something extraordinary.
Make a difference – help to reduce the numbers of feral cats on the island by the year 2010.
We want to reduce the number of feral cats significantly. 2010 may seem a long way off, but it isn’t. Why should cats be left to starve on the streets? Why should cats be left to suffer terrible diseases? Please become a vital link in the endeavour to improve the situation for all feral cats in wonderful Mallorca. Here’s the science bit!

Feral cats are not socialised to people. They range from cats that have never had human contact to semi-tame cats who were once pets. Often living in loose associations known as “colonies” they become well-adapted to their territory and can live safely and contentedly in alleyways, car parks, empty buildings, back gardens, and many other locations – urban, suburban, and rural.

Determine if the cats are being cared for

If you notice kittens, there are cats that need to be spayed/neutered.
Do you see evidence that the colony is being cared for such as food dishes, water bowls, or shelters? If someone is already feeding the cats, perhaps you can help to have the cats neutered.

Start feeding

Feed the cats once a day. Dry food is preferable, and should be left as inconspicuously as possible. Place dishes under shrubs, behind bushes, or near walls. And please don’t forget fresh water!
Stick to a regular schedule if you can. Consistent feeding will make trapping easier.

Spay/neuter

Spay/neuter is the single most important thing you can do to help feral cats, and is the most humane and effective way to control their populations. Not only does spay/neuter prevent more kittens from being born, it also decreases behavior like spraying, fighting, howling, and roaming. In addition, it generally improves the cats’ health.

Spay/neuter should take precedence over socialising and adopting. Even if you do not wish to continue feeding and caring for them, can I suggest you still have the cats altered and return them to their habitat. That would be an extremely kind thing for you to do.
Decide where you will have the cats altered. Centro Canino Internacional will give you any advice you need and can also help you organise either free or low-cost spaying/neutering. Please get in contact.

Managing your colony!

Minimize the number of feeding locations – fewer feeding stations means less work for you and less chance of someone noticing. It also makes it easier to keep an eye on the cats and to monitor the colony for newcomers.
Feed the cats in areas as secluded as possible, away from people and centers of activity.
If possible, do not feed at night. Conflicts with wildlife are one of the primary reasons neighbours complain about feral cat colonies, and daytime feeding reduces the chance of wild animals helping themselves to the cats’ food.
Keep feeding areas clean. Change the dishes when they get dirty, and pick up rubbish even if it isn’t yours. Don’t leave empty cans or large piles of food. Dry food is less messy than canned, and if you only feed dry food, canned food will be a more enticing treat, making trapping much easier.
Watch for newcomers, and have them spayed or neutered right away.
“Out of sight, out of mind” is the motto of many feral cat caregivers. Try to be inconspicuous in your feeding and trapping activities. If someone notices and asks what you are doing, explain that neutering and feeding the cats will decrease their numbers quickly and humanely. Most people are supportive of what you are doing. On the whole. We’ve found the vast majority of people in Mallorca (Mallorcans, mainland Spanish, the British, German residents and visitors etc.) are pro any type of animal care, especially when it means the solution to a problem.
Share responsibilities. Do you have friends, co-workers, family members, or other caregivers who will feed the cats one day a week or colony sit while you’re on holiday? Perhaps they can socialise a kitten or keep a cat for post-surgery recovery while you continue trapping. The more people who participate in caring for a colony, the better off the cats – and you – will be.

Resources for help

Local vets: Ask if they can put you in touch with anyone else who is caring for ferals for advice and support. Do they have a humane trap you can borrow?
Centro Canino Internacional: They will give you any advice/help that they can, help with free or low-cost spaying/neutering or help with medical care if you find a sick or injured cat.
Pet shops: Find out if they have humane traps to borrow, rent, or buy, or referrals to volunteers or local feral cat groups. Tell them what you are doing, and ask for cat food donations, or request permission to set up a donation bin where customers can deposit cat food they purchase at the shop.

Some people believe that feral cats lead “short, miserable lives” and that for this reason, Trap, Spay, Return programs should not be implemented. I disagree. As most caregivers can attest, feral cats frequently lead long, healthy lives. And while feral and abandoned cats may face hardships, I don’t think death is better than a less-than-perfect life. Many animals face similar hazards and do not live extraordinarily long lives, yet we would never consider euthanising them “for their own good”.

We believe that all animals deserve compassion and protection for their entire lives – no matter how long that might be. Thank you.

Thank you Mrs Benjamin for this most informative article. If
anyone else has ideas for how we can help the animals of Mallorca, please email them in to us. Thank you

Comentarios [5]

Microchipping pets - the factsPublished 12 mayo 06

“What’s the most effective way to make sure you find your dog if it gets lost? Having it microchipped.”

Dog being microchipped In Spain less than 14% of pets find their way back to their original owners from shelters, and more pets die each year as a result of being lost than from all serious diseases combined. While traditional pet identification methods are still recommended, they have limitations. Tags can fade, rust, or get scratched, making them impossible to read. Collars can come off or, even worse, get caught on something while your pet is wandering about, causing him physical harm.

Fortunately, the relatively new technology of microchipping, or the microchip identification system, can improve your odds of being reunited with your lost pet.

With microchipping, a vet uses a hypodermic needle to inject a tiny computer chip (about the size of a grain of rice) containing a unique identification number just under your pet’s skin between the shoulder blades.

The number on the computer chip is entered into a national database, along with your corresponding contact information. Microchips should be scanned before being placed in a pet to ensure that the unique identifying number is readable.

If your lost or stolen pet is found, any vet surgery or animal shelter (such as, of course, the Centro Canino) can use a microchip scanner to read the unique ID number contained on the chip.

Once they identify the chip they call the Spanish national database, or access it on a computer relaying the number on the microchip.

The database matches the identification number to your name and phone number so that you can be contacted with the location of your pet.

The price for microchip implantation can vary, but it’s usually less than 100€. If microchipping is performed in conjunction with spay/neuter surgery the cost of microchip implantation is even less expensive.

There are other advantages to microchipping. Microchips are convenient, safe, and reliable. Implantation is simple and routine. The microchip can’t be lost or damaged and it lasts for the pet’s lifetime. Microchip technology can potentially increase your chances of finding, and claiming, your lost pet.

Have a pet which isn’t microchipped? Make an appointment with the vet and help protect yourself from the misery of losing your dog and waiting and waiting and waiting for news. Do it today!

Comentarios [1]

Our Stray Cats ProgrammePublished 9 mayo 06

“We’re pledged to working harder than ever to try and neuter as many female stray & feral cats in Mallorca

Thousands of feral kittens are born every year Everyone who lives in Mallorca (and even most people who just visit for a holiday) are aware that we have far too many wild cats on the island. The problem is huge, compared to the number of wild cats in Britain.

We are trying to do our bit to deal with the problem. We have an ongoing cat neutralisation programme, in which we capture female wild cats, have a vet neuter them and realise them back into the wild.

If they seem adaptable to life in a home, we put them up for adoption but unfortunately most feral cats cannot live in a home.

It is an ongoing problem. We can only capture and neuter as many cats as we can and more and more kittens are being born every day.

The kittens can catch diseases, starve or even worse. There are plenty of terrible people out there who will deliberately put down cat food laced with rat poison to kill stray cats off.

A cat dying in agony is a terrible sight to see – and hear.

Won’t you please help? Any donation you can make will help us pay for vet fees. We manage to find vets who will do the operations at a very discounted price, but it is still expensive and there are so many cats to deal with.

Please consider donating a little money to us, either as a kind one-off donation, or even better as a monthly small contribution.

Tell us, if you like, to earmark the money especially for the cat-neutering programme and then you’ll know that you are doing your bit to deal with the problem.

We rely entirely on the generosity of friends like you. Please help. Thank you.

A memorial to your petPublished 8 mayo 06

Tree memorial This is your chance to help and show your respect and love for your beloved family pet who has passed away.

For a small donation, we will plant a tree or put up a plaque in our new animal-rescue centre, in honour of your much missed pet.

Or if you have a more appropriate way of marking the life of your much missed friend, please let us know.

Pets truly are our best friends. They give so much. Each of the dogs and cats that we take in and try to re-home can be, in his or her way, as special to someone, as your pet is to you.

Each of the many hundreds of dogs and cats that are put to sleep/destroyed every year in Mallorca has (or unfortunately had) the opportunity to be as good a friend and companion to someone, as your beloved pet has been to you.

They just never got the breaks in life to make true happiness happen. Not everyone (or every animal) is lucky enough to experience the strong loving bond that exists between a human and a canine or feline pet.

Out of respect, mark your pet’s life by planting a tree or making some similar tribute, and make a donation so that we can keep trying to save and re-home as many unfortunate dogs and cats as possible.

We desperately need the help of all animal-lovers in Mallorca. Think what could have happened to your pet if you hadn’t loved them. Thank you.

End Mallorca's secret shamePublished 6 mayo 06

Maybe officially it doesn’t exist and we had to think twice before deciding to put it on to our website but organised dog-fighting does exist on our beautiful island, and in the next few years, we hope to put more and more pressure on the authorities to put an end to it once and for all.

Over the years, we’ve found dogs who’ve been the victims of dogfights. Dogs half torn to pieces for sport.

You may agree that one of the most saddening wretched things in life is a dog who’s been ripped apart while humans watch for fun, still trusting and loving humans enough to allow us to nurse it back to healthy life. How could anyone want dogs to fight for fun.

Please join us. Join the Centro Canino Internacional and help us bring this nauseous so-called sport to an end. Your donation, either money or time or clothing or whatever will help us. Thank you.

Comentarios [3]

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Black cats have an undeserved reputation

Keep Your Pets Nice and Cool This SummerPublished 10 agosto 06

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Toys/food donationsPublished 30 junio 06

Lifejackets for sea-dogsPublished 26 junio 06

Update from the VolunteersPublished 21 junio 06

Message from the Volunteers Committee

Dogs and the SummerPublished 16 junio 06

Children and dogs - a guidePublished 16 junio 06

Your children and the dogs that they meet

Spay/neuter is best for petsPublished 18 mayo 06

There are a number of compelling reasons to spay or neuter your pet

Still not convinced?

Care and feeding of feral catsPublished 13 mayo 06

Spay/neuter

Managing your colony!

Resources for help

Microchipping pets - the factsPublished 12 mayo 06

“What’s the most effective way to make sure you find your dog if it gets lost? Having it microchipped.”

Our Stray Cats ProgrammePublished 9 mayo 06

“We’re pledged to working harder than ever to try and neuter as many female stray & feral cats in Mallorca

A memorial to your petPublished 8 mayo 06

End Mallorca's secret shamePublished 6 mayo 06