I’ve been saying for years Cubbie is a genius! Turns out I might be right.

I really do believe he understands me (sometimes, usually when he wants to), and he can definitely read my emotions. Whenever I’m upset, he always finds his way to my lap and just curls up with me.

One of our producers found this from CNN.

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Most dog owners will tell you that their dog is “so smart.” It turns out — they may be right. One recent study finds that dogs have the developmental abilities of a two-year-old. Researchers at the University of Florida say the average canine is capable of learning the meaning of 165 words. Another study found that dogs can interpret human body language and behavior and use it to their advantage. Researchers say dogs are more likely to beg for food from someone who is paying attention to them. That study is published in the journal “Learning and Behavior.”

Posted under In the News

CEDAR RAPIDS, Iowa (July 25, 2011)— The Cedar Valley Humane Society is holding its third annual Putts 4 Pets miniature golf outing at Airport National Golf Course in Cedar Rapids from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, August 6.

The cost is $15 for an individual and $50 for a foursome, which includes 18 holes of miniature golf and choice of a small ice cream cone, 20-ounce fountain drink, or bottled water.

All proceeds will benefit the homeless animals at the Cedar Valley Humane Society.

Reservations can be made at www.cvhumane.org.

For more information, contact Jan Clarke at (319) 362-6288 or jan.clarke@cvhumane.org.

Posted under Uncategorized

Posted under In the News, Uncategorized

I’m probably preaching to the choir… but with this incredible heat it is so important not to leave our pets outside for long periods of time or in cars.

Unfortunately, the Cedar Bend Humane Society has taken numerous calls of animals being left in the heat unattended.

It’s simply too hot to be outside for too long, and just like people, our pets need lots of water!

Cubbie and his friend found a way to stay cool when it’s hot outside… swimming… kiddie pool style.

Posted under Cubbie stories, In the News

The Waterloo-Cedar Falls Board of Realtors will be holding a community event, “Scrubbing Hound Dogs For Pound Dogs.”

The group will be washing the dogs on Sunday, August 7, 2011 from 12:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. in the Four Season Realtors parking lot, 3336 Kimball Avenue, Waterloo.

All donations will benefit the Cedar Bend Humane Society. To register and for more information go to www.wcfbor.com or call Karen Steffes at 215-2080.

Posted under Pet Events

The therapeutic value of animals for socially isolated individuals in nursing homes, hospitals, and hospices has been well documented.  As a matter of fact, people who share their company with animals have been known to experience a decrease in blood pressure, reduced anxiety, and a general feeling of well being.   Bottom line – people in the presence of animals are often perceived to be happier and healthier.

And so through the generosity of Mr. John Schenken of Marion, Cedar Rapids Animal Care & Control (CRACC) is announcing a new program, “Cat Companions for Seniors”!   Through this program, Mr. Schenken and CRACC are making available a select group of companion felines for adoption FREE OF CHARGE!!!  That’s right, FREE!!! 

All the selected cat companions will be spayed or neutered, have their initial vaccinations, been treated for fleas/ticks, dewormed, microchipped, and have their one-year rabies vaccination.  Some may even be declawed.  And if that’s not enough, CRACC is providing the lucky seniors who choose to open their heart and home to one of our adoptable felines a complete start-up kit, including:  a litter box, bag of kitty litter, litter pan liners, litter scoop, food/water bowl, toys, a collar, cat carrier, and a free bag of food.  To be eligible, seniors must have landlord approval to adopt a cat and pet deposits must be paid in advance.

For more information on how you can find the purrfect “Cat Companion”, stop by the shelter at 2109 North Towne Lane NE.  The shelter is open noon to 5 pm Monday through Friday, and 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday.

Posted under In the News

Cubbie often sleeps on his back with his paws straight up in the air. I think it’s hilarious.

I found these great photos from an ASPCA contest for the weirdest places cats sleep.

From under stuffed animals to inside chip bags to underneath a stack of board games… these photos are so funny!

Check it out here.

Posted under In the News

I figured it was about time I posted pictures from the little Cubster’s fifth birthday.

Cubbie’s birthday is June 28th. As usual, he got several birthday presents. He also enjoyed a fun walk/playdate with his doggy friend Kinnick.

I got Cubbers several new toys (which surprisingly are still intact). I got him a blue frog that squeaks, which he loves to squeak a little too much.

I also got him a frisbee that he hopefully can’t rip up. I really want him to learn how to catch a frisbee, but everytime I throw one, he insists on breaking into little plastic pieces. I’ve tried throwing the new frisbee, but Cubs doesn’t seem very interested since he can’t destroy it.

And he got a squeaky chicken because whenever he goes to Kinnick’s house, that is the one toy he loves to play with. Last time, Cubs proceeded to pull the stuffing out of Kinnick’s chicken (and I don’t think Kinnick is too happy about it). Now Cubbie has his own chicken to rip up!

And the water dish with the correct name arrived from my friend, so he got that as well!

Overall, I think it was a good birthday for Cubbie. He got toys, treats and a lot of time running around outside. It worked out well his birthday fell on one of my days off.

Happy Birthday my little Cubbie Bear!

Posted under Cubbie stories

Join us at the beautiful Brown Deer Golf Course in Coralville for the Third Annual Putts this Sunday July 10^th Putts 4 Mutts to benefit Friends of the Animal Center Foundation, Safe Haven of Iowa County and Reading Education Assistance Dogs.

Friends of the Animal Center Foundation is a 501(c) 3 non-profit that raises funds to support and expand the animal care services of the Iowa City Animal Care and Adoption Center.  

Registration: 7 a.m.

Shot-Gun: 8 a.m.

$75 per person which includes entry into all events, 18 holes of golf, riding cart, lunch and chances to win prizes!

2 Person Best Shot

Awards: Least Putts * Longest Drive * Closest to the Pin * Hole in One Shootout

Contact: satokheim@southslope.net or 319-626-2084

Posted under Pet Events