Happy Friday from Yolanda at Save the Chimps

Excerpted from Save the Chimps

Meet Yolanda

My name is Yolanda and I was born in Africa in the late 1960s. In the early days of primate research, it was common practice to capture young chimpanzees from the wild for use in laboratories. Because a chimpanzee mother wouldn’t willingly give up her baby, considerable force would have to be used against my mother and other members of the group. I arrived at Holloman Air Force Base in May 1975 with two other chimpanzees and six months later I was put into a series of research projects.
 
During my decades of being used in medical research and as a breeder, I gave birth to six babies for laboratory use. Unfortunately, I was not allowed to keep any of my babies for more than a day or two because the laboratory staff sent them to be raised by humans in the nursery.

In 2002, I was among the 266 chimpanzees rescued by Save the Chimps. At Save the Chimps, my friends Olida, Lisa and I became members of Rufus’ family and migrated to Florida together in June 2006. Our tight knit family loves to raise a ruckus and chase each other around the island.
Even though I’m elderly, I often jump right in with Lisa at my side for back up. These harmless scuffles settle quickly and are followed by grooming sessions where we reinforce friendships and smooth over any hard feelings.

I have heavy eye lids and high set ears. These adorable features I’m told resemble the beloved science fiction character Yoda. I also have a very distinct voice which can be heard over most anyone else when I’m expressing a strongly felt opinion. I am extremely fond of veggies, especially celery and I love resting in hammocks. Retirement to the sanctuary has also provided me with a lush, green island in the beautiful Florida sunshine where I can spend my days in comfort.

Visit Save the Chimps and meet the whole gang!

Today is World Elephant Day

Today is World Elephant Day, a time to raise awareness and take action to protect these iconic animals in the wild and in captivity.

Excerpted from Performing Animals Welfare Society (PAWS)
At PAWS, we are reminded every day that each elephant is a highly intelligent and emotionally complex individual with her or his own history, memories, and life experiences.
Did you know that:

• Four of the seven elephants at PAWS were torn from their free-living mothers and families and sold into captivity: Asian elephant Gypsy was forced to perform in circuses for nearly 40 years; Lulu, Mara, and Toka were confined in zoos.

• Asian elephant Prince was born at a well-known zoo and separated from his mother when he was less than two years old. He was sold to a circus.

• Nicholas, an Asian bull elephant, was born into the circus, where as a calf he was forced to ride a tricycle and perform ridiculous tricks.

• Thika is the only African elephant at PAWS to be born in captivity. 

No matter where the elephants were born, they strengthen our resolve to see elephants living freely in their wild homes, protected for generations to come. 

Elephants simply do not thrive in captivity, where they often suffer serious captivity-related ailments that can tragically cut their lives short. Captive populations are simply not sustainable – unless more elephants are abducted from their families in the wild and incarcerated for life. This is not conservation. . . it is just wrong. On World Elephant Day, please support legitimate conservationists who protect elephants where they live, such as ElephantVoices and the Amboseli Trust for Elephants. And please support PAWS’ work to care for our seven rescued or retired elephants – it costs about $70,000 a year to provide a more natural life for just one elephant!

Thank you for caring about elephants!

Crazy About Horses -A Celebration of the Art of Susie Benes

Excerpted from Susie Benes.com – If you love art and horses, visit Susie Benes who captures the essence and soul of horses in this beautiful work of art!

(photo shown above)”Tokens of Tacit Memories”

2017

Wire, clay, acrylic, pigment powder

Our memories are fluid and incomplete, yet they are often the wellspring of inspiration for our creative endeavours. These tiny foal relics are tangible memorials to the unspoken and its significance to the human imagination.

No taller than 4in, there are 8 foals in this series:

Ace – “the best one” in Latin, this alert, laying colt has a pink nose and two bold socks.

Akoni – “worthy of praise” in Latin, this frisky paint is using his long legs for their most important purpose; running.

Alta – “elevated” in Latin, stretches to investigated something interesting she’s found.

Amata – “beloved” in Latin, stands proudly showing off her long legs and pink nose.

Amias – “beloved” in Latin, is curled up for a peaceful nap next to his mother.

Argento – “like silver” in Latin, checks to see if his mum is still in sight.

Aureo – “golden” in Latin, is in her element, standing under an open sky.

Avis – “like a bird” in Latin, this filly has four white socks and a free spirit.

Rescued Tigers Enjoying Summer at Black Beauty Ranch Sanctuary

Elsa, a tiger rescued from the exotic pet trade in February, staying cool and enjoying her pool at her sanctuary home, Black Beauty Ranch. Meredith Lee/The HSUS

Excerpted from A Humane World Blog – HSUS

There are many things we can learn from animals, but one thing that never fails to move me to my core is their resilience. Whether it’s witnessing the dogs learn to play after being saved from dog meat farms in South Korea or seeing my own rescue dog Lilly frolicking in the grass, I’ve always admired the extraordinary ability of animals to overcome hardship and experience joy.
Two tigers who we rescued this year and brought to live at Black Beauty Ranch, our 1,400-acre animal sanctuary in Murchison, Texas, epitomize such resilience.

Read more…

Rest in Peace Sweet Maggie the Elephant

Performing Animal Welfare Society Announces Death ofAfrican Elephant Maggie Elephant was once the only one of her kind in Alaska

San Andreas, Calif. (August 5, 2021) – The Performing Animal Welfare Society (PAWS) today announced the death of African elephant Maggie at the ARK 2000 captive wildlife sanctuary in San Andreas, California. Maggie passed away on Tuesday beneath her favorite shady oak tree and near preferred mudholes in the sanctuary’s largest habitat, with PAWS’ staff on hand. Elephant friend Lulu was at her side, and Toka stood calmly with a caregiver nearby. According to the African Elephant Studbook, Maggie was 41 years old. Maggie lived with significant arthritis and dental disease for much of her life. “Maggie enjoyed California’s sunny skies, the wide-open spaces of her habitat, and the company of other elephants for nearly 14 years at our sanctuary. She could often be found napping on a hillside, watched over by elephants Lulu and Toka,” said PAWS President Ed Stewart. “I am honored to have cared for Maggie and very proud of the keeper and veterinary care we provided for her throughout the years.” Before coming to PAWS in November 2007, Maggie was the only elephant in Alaska, living at the Alaska Zoo in Anchorage. The first call after Maggie’s death was to Alaska Zoo Executive Director Pat Lampi, who stated: “We are all deeply saddened to learn about the passing of Maggie. She touched the lives of many Alaskans and people all over the world. I take comfort in knowing that the past 13 years she was in the loving care of our friends at PAWS and in the company of her close companion Lulu.” Maggie was born in Zimbabwe, Africa, in 1982 and captured as a calf, likely as a result of an elephant cull. The Alaska Zoo acquired Maggie in 1983 and she spent the next 24 years there, the last 10 years of that time alone. In 2007, the zoo decided to send Maggie to the PAWS sanctuary. Because no commercial airline option was available to move her, Maggie was flown by the U.S. Air Force aboard a C-17 Globemaster III from Elmendorf Air Force Base in Alaska. Emmy Award-winning television game show host and animal advocate Bob Barker reimbursed the Air Force for the full cost of transport and funded Maggie’s care for a number of years. Maggie lived with significant arthritis and dental disease for much of her life, and although these conditions were greatly helped by excellent care and the therapeutic setting of the sanctuary, they continued to worsen over time and contributed to her passing. In free-living elephants, a 41-year-old female would be in her prime, as African elephants can live to be 65 years old. In captive situations, elephants’ lives are frequently cut short by captivity-induced ailments such as premature arthritis and foot disease. According to the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, the median life expectancy for female African elephants in captivity is only 38.1 years. “All of us at PAWS will miss this truly special and dear elephant,” said Stewart. “She was loved by the other elephants, PAWS’ staff, and everyone who knew her or followed her compelling story, from Alaska to California and beyond.” As is customary for all elephants who pass away at PAWS, a necropsy has been performed on Maggie’s remains by pathologists at U.C. Davis Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital. PAWS continues to care for seven elephants, including Lulu, who is the oldest African elephant in the United States. The sanctuary also rescues and cares for bears and big cats. For more information about PAWS, please visit www.pawsweb.org. # # # About the Performing Animal Welfare Society (PAWS)Founded in 1984, the Performing Animal Welfare Society (PAWS) operates three sanctuaries in California – including the 2,300-acre ARK 2000 natural habitat sanctuary – and cares for elephants, bears, big cats and other wild animals rescued or retired from circuses, zoos, and the exotic pet trade. PAWS is licensed by the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the California Department of Fish and Wildlife and is accredited by the Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries. It is rated a four-star charity by Charity Navigator and received an “A” rating from CharityWatch

Quote of the Day

“Our task must be to free ourselves…by widening our circle of compassion to embrace all living creatures and the whole of nature in its beauty.” — Albert Einstein

Everyday Spirit Thought of the Day

Visit Everyday Spirit for more…

Favorite Animal Quotes

“I think I could turn and live with the animals, they are so placid and self contained;

I stand and look at them long and long.

They do not sweat and whine about their condition;

They do not lie awake in the dark and weep for their sins;

They do not make me sick discussing their duty to God;

Not one is dissatisfied-not one is demented with the mania of owning things;

Not one kneels to another, nor his kind that lived thousands of years ago;

Not one is responsible or industrious over the whole earth.” ― Walt Whitman

Yummy Melt-in-your-mouth Vegan Crab Cakes

Vegan Crab Cakees with Sriracha Aioli — I cook/bake all the vegan recipes I post, and this is a favorite!

Prep Time 20 mins

Cook Time15 mins

Soak Time4 hrs

Total Time4 hrs 35 mins 

Why vegan crab cakes are so fabulous: Because real Crabs can walk in all directions, but mostly walk and run sideways. Crabs are decapods, meaning they have 10 legs. Female crabs can release 1000 to 2000 eggs at once. The lifespan of a small crab averages around 3-4 years, but larger species such as the giant Japanese spider crab can live as long as 100 years.

So, there’s really no choice, is there?

Vegan crab cakes melt-in-your-mouth and are made with seasoned artichoke heart patties coated with crispy panko breadcrumbs, pan-fried until crisp, and served with spicy cashew-sriracha aioli.

Course: Entree

Servings: 12 cakes

Calories: 151 

Author: Alissa at connoisseurusveg.com

Ingredients

For the Sriracha Aioli

• 1 cup raw cashews, soaked in water 4-8 hours, rinsed and drained
• 1/4 cup unflavored soy or almond milk
• 2 garlic cloves
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons sriracha sauce, or to taste
• Salt, to taste

For the Vegan Crab Cakes

• 2 (15 ounce or 400 gram) cans cans artichoke hearts, drained and rinsed
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 2 cups panko breadcrumbs, divided
• 1/4 cup whole wheat flour
• 2 garlic cloves minced
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives
• 2 tablespoons vegan Worcestershire sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon Old Bay Seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
• 1/4 cup canola oil, or as needed, for frying

InstructionsMake the Sriracha Aioli

1. Place all ingredients into food processor bowl and blend until smooth, stopping to scrape down sides of bowl as needed. Season with salt to taste.

Make the Vegan Crab Cakes

1. Place artichoke hearts, celery, 1 cup panko, flour, garlic, chives, Worcestershire sauce, Old Bay Seasoning, and salt into the bowl of a food processor fitted with an s-blade.
2. Pulse the machine until the artichokes are finely chopped and ingredients are well-mixed, stopping to scrape down sides of bowl as needed. Keep the texture chunky and avoid overblending.
3. Place the remaining cup of panko breadcrumbs into a small bowl. 
4. Line a plate with a few paper towels.
5. Generously coat the bottom of a medium skillet with oil and place over medium heat. 
6. When the oil is hot, scoop up a bit (about ⅓ cup or 1/12 of the total batch) of the artichoke mixture and shape it into a 3-inch patty.
7. Gently transfer the patty to the bowl filled with panko breadcrumbs and coat both sides. 
8. Carefully place the patty into skillet. 
9. Repeat the process of forming, coating and cooking another two or three patties (as many as you can fit into the skillet without overcrowding). 
10. Gently flip the patties, one at a time as they begin to brown, cooking them about 3 or 4 minutes on each side. 
11. Carefully remove the patties from the skillet as they are done, and transfer them to the paper towel-lined plate.
12. Repeat until all of the artichoke mixture has been used, making a total of about 12 patties, and adding oil to the skillet between batches as needed.
13. Serve the vegan crab cakes immediately with the aioli on the side.

Recipe Notes

If you don’t have time to soak your cashews, boiling for 20-25 minutes will work in a pinch.Nutrition FactsVegan Crab Cakees with Sriracha AioliAmount Per Serving (1 cake with 1 tablespoon aioli)Calories 151Calories from Fat 90% Daily Value*Fat 10g15%Saturated Fat 1.4g7%Sodium 273mg11%Potassium 84mg2%Carbohydrates 12.6g4%Fiber 1.9g8%Sugar 1.6g2%Protein 3.3g7%Calcium 29mg3%Iron 1mg6%* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.

Death of a Chimp Reveals Tragic Truth About Primates Kept as Pets

Excerpted from A Humane World, the United States Humane Society’s Blog

Earlier this week, law enforcement officers from the Umatilla County Sheriff’s office in Oregon were called to a home because a pet chimpanzee attacked a woman who subsequently locked herself in a bedroom. The woman’s mother instructed deputies to shoot and kill the chimpanzee so that emergency responders could reach her daughter to provide medical assistance. A shot to the head ended the life of Buck, a chimpanzee whose unfortunate fate had actually been sealed 17 years before when he was first acquired.

The family who owned Buck referred to him as an “adopted son.” Seventeen years ago, baby Buck wore diapers and drank from a bottle. As he grew, he had the run of the house, as well as the family’s rural property. He ate burritos and Chinese food at their table. But treating chimpanzees or any other non-human primates as surrogate children does not change their wild and highly unpredictable nature.

Read more…

Quote of the Day

“To live a creative life, we must lose our fear of being wrong.” — Joseph Chilton Pearce

Yummy Vegan Double Chocolate Muffins from connoisseurusveg

Tender, sweet, and studded with dark chocolate chips, it doesn’t get much more chocolaty than these vegan chocolate muffins!

Prep Time10 mins

Cook Time20 mins

Total Time 30 mins 

Tender, sweet, and studded with dark chocolate chips, it doesn’t get much more chocolaty than these vegan chocolate muffins!

Servings: 12 muffins: Author: Alissa Saenz *Visit Alissa’s food blog at https://www.connoisseurusveg.com for more wonderful vegan recipes.

Ingredients

• 1 cup unflavored and unsweetened non-dairy milk
• 1/3 cup canola oil (or baking oil of choice)
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon white vinegar
• 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup vegan chocolate chips

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F and line a 12-cup muffin tin with papers.
2. In a small bowl or liquid measuring cup, stir the milk, oil, vanilla and vinegar together.
3. In a large mixing bowl, stir the flour, brown sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon and salt together.
4. Pour the milk mixture into the flour mixture and stir just until the ingredients are combined.
5. Fold in the chocolate chips.
6. Divide the batter among the muffin tins.
7. Bake the muffins for about 20 minutes, until the tops spring back when lightly pressed with a finger.
8. Transfer the tin to a cooling rack and let the muffins cool for a bit before removing them from the tins.

Nutrition FactsVegan Double Chocolate MuffinsAmount Per Serving (1 muffin)

Calories 260Calories from Fat 121% Daily Value*Fat 13.4g21%Saturated Fat 4.7g24%Sodium 165mg7%Potassium 156mg4%Carbohydrates 33.7g11%Fiber 2.7g11%Sugar 15.4g17%Protein 3.7g7%Calcium 103mg10%Iron 3mg17%* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.

Quote of the Day

“I took a deep breath and listened to the old bray of my heart. I am. I am. I am.” — Sylvia Plath

Quote of the Day

“Never be in a hurry; do everything quietly and in a calm spirit. Do not lose your inner peace for anything whatsoever, even if your whole world seems upset.” —Saint Francis de Sales

Chewy or Crunchy? You Gotta Love Vegan Cookies

Excerpted from One Green Planet

Are you on Team Crunchy or Team Chewy? Just as with other important issues like politics and peanut butter, people tend to fall into one of the two camps, and will defend their choice vehemently. Me, I’m Team Crunchy. I’ve always preferred crispy, crunchy cookies. As a child, I would dunk chocolate chip cookies in milk because that tasted good, but it also made them soft and mushy, which I didn’t like. The key was figuring out the precise number of seconds the cookie could be in the milk in order to get the flavor, but not soften the cookie.

Some people prefer their cookies thin, crispy, and crunchy. Others like them soft, thick, and chewy. You know which kind of cookie you like, but do you know how to make it happen? It isn’t just chance – you can determine the texture of your cookies just by tweaking the ingredients in any cookie recipe. Whether you like crunchy or chewy cookies, here’s how to make them both.

Get the recipes here

Animals to be recognized as sentient in U.K. — Here’s why that matters from Humane Society International/U.K.

The animal protection movement made some great progress this week when the U.K. announced new legal recognitions for animals and a plan to improve animal welfare policies. Here, Claire Bass, executive director of Humane Society International/U.K., explains what this means for animals.

As the political dust from Brexit continues to settle, Humane Society International/U.K. celebrates big steps forward for animals in the United Kingdom. Animals are now to be legally recognized as sentient beings thanks to the U.K. government’s first-ever Action Plan for Animal Welfare, which commits to new policies and laws that will improve the treatment of animals in the U.K. and abroad. For years, HSI/U.K. has campaigned on many of the issues in the plan, including the legal recognition of animals as beings who have feelings and emotions.

Read more…

How to Keep a Blue Heeler Busy

This is the most popular post on my blog since I started in 2014. Thought I would repost for anyone who is struggling with keeping their Australian cattle dog entertained. You’re not alone!

Scamp

If you live with an Australian cattle dog, aka a blue heeler, you may relate to my article, “How to Keep a Blue Heeler Busy.” Apparently, it’s one of the most popular dog articles I’ve written for this particular site, according to the traffic stats, and it means lots of people are searching for this information — if you know the breed, you’ll know why. Unfortunately, some people don’t research the breed of dog they acquire, and the dog always gets the short end of the stick. Often, a new canine family member who’s not a good fit for its humans’ lifestyle ends up at the pound. This happens often with cattle dogs, and sadly many end up in rescues along with other high-energy or ‘strong-willed’ breeds.

Scamp, pictured in this post, is going on six years old — this pic was when she was 10 months old. She…

View original post 478 more words

Chickens are smart and feel a range of emotions

Excerpt from Farm Sanctuary newsletter:

When people tour our New York and California sanctuaries, they’re often most intrigued by the traits and behaviors of chickens—to them, it’s a surprise to learn that they are thinking, feeling beings. But countless studies are calling out the truth: “The evidence that chickens are intelligent and capable of feeling pain and suffering is overwhelming.”

Read more…

Sharing PAWS Newsletter about elephants

PERFORMING ANIMAL WELFARE SOCIETYRescue. Advocacy. Sanctuary. For Life.Since 1984 March 2021 | Newsletter

The HBO documentary An Apology to Elephants, released in 2013, prominentlyfeatures PAWS and the elephants we care for at ARK 2000, including Lulu (pictured above).

“An Apology to Elephants” Revisited!

We often receive emails from people who have recently discovered the ground-breaking HBO documentary, An Apology to Elephants, and been inspired to take action. This hard-hitting film explores the abuse of elephants in circuses and the impoverishment of their lives in zoos – and how some people are working to bring about change. Award-winning actress, comedian, producer, and PAWS’ friend Lily Tomlin narrates the film and earned an Emmy for her work. The documentary remains as relevant today as when it was first released.(Pictured: Lily Tomlin with PAWS’co-founder, the late Pat Derby.)

When Lily Tomlin approached PAWS about the project, we were happy to provide our expertise. The film prominently features PAWS’ co-founders, Ed Stewart and the late Pat Derby, and the elephants we care for at ARK 2000. In fact, An Apology to Elephants was dedicated to Pat, who passed away in February 2013. Tomlin shared her Emmy win with Ed Stewart (pictured) and PAWS, stating, “This is a great acknowledgement of the work of Ed Stewart and Pat Derby, founders of PAWS, who have worked on behalf of elephants for so many years.” PAWS cares for eight elephants rescued or retired from zoos and circuses. They include Asian elephant Gypsy, who spent 40 years in at least a half dozen different circuses, and African elephant Mara who was originally held at a petting zoo in California. Unlike Gypsy and Mara, who were kidnapped from their families in the wild, Asian elephant Nicholas was born into the circus where he was forced to ride a tricycle and balance on a narrow wood beam. Maggie was the only elephant in frigid Alaska before she was transferred to PAWS.

Today, all of our elephants live far different lives. They traverse large, open pastures set among rolling hills dotted with oak trees, spending their days as they please. This usually includes foraging on grass and trees, enjoying a dust bath, and exploring their dynamic environment. Since An Apology to Elephants was released, we’ve made progress for captive elephants used in circuses. Legislation has played a large part, first with city and state-wide bans on the abusive elephant bullhook (PAWS co-sponsored the California bill and played a role in the Rhode Island ban) and through prohibitions on the use of elephants in traveling shows (New York, Illinois) and on the use of wild animal acts (New Jersey, Hawaii). Many more local municipalities have passed similar bans. Several states have introduced bills this year to prohibit wild animal acts. (Read more in article below.)

Zoos continue to confine and display elephants, though the number of zoos holding them in the U.S. has decreased. The number of elephants in zoos is also decreasing, as elephants do not thrive in captive environments. More captive elephants are dying each year than are being born. To make up for this, zoos have imported wild caught elephants – and will do so again – in order to stock zoo displays. PAWS will continue to stand up against the cruel separation of elephant calves from their mothers and wild families, only to spend the rest of their lives in captivity. Of course, there is much more work to be done before we can declare victory for captive elephants. If you need some motivation or just want to learn more about the plight of these iconic animals in captivity, watch An Apology to Elephants. It is sure to move you to action! An Apology to Elephants was directed by Amy Schatz, with narration written by Jane Wagner. You can find the documentary on HBO Max, Hulu Premium, Amazon Prime and YouTube.

Update: PAWS’ Exposé
of Fort Worth Zoo’s $2 Million Elephant Deal
 
Last August, PAWS exposed a plan by the Fort Worth Zoo in Texas to purchase and import two female Asian elephants, Emily and Nellie, from African Lion Safari in Canada for the outrageous price of two-million dollars. (Read our press release here.) We had also filed comments with the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service (USFWS), asking that the agency deny the permit required for the import. Recently, we learned that the Fort Worth Zoo withdrew its permit request in September 2020.
 
The zoo’s aim was to bring in the elephants for breeding, even though the Association of Zoos and Aquariums’ (AZA) own Population Analysis and Breeding & Transfer Plan for Asian elephants rated the pairing of Nellie with the two males at the Fort Worth Zoo as “genetically detrimental” and for Emily it was either “genetically detrimental” or “genetically neutral.” Shockingly, the AZA actually allows pairings of elephants for whom breeding would be genetically detrimental due to the “current demographic needs of the population” and “to meet offspring goals.” In other words, the number of elephants in zoos is diminishing and they need to produce elephants for display, no matter the cost.
 
In its letter to the USFWS, PAWS also expressed concern about the breeding of female elephants at a young age. Emily gave birth at age nine to a calf who has since died, meaning she was impregnated at age seven. Nellie is seven years old now. The mean age at first calving is 18 to 20 years in wild Asian elephants.
 
The population of Asian elephants in North American zoos has been shown to be unsustainable, without the importation of more wild-caught elephants. Breeding in zoos is a frantic attempt to bolster its declining elephant population, as well as boost zoo attendance and revenue. As one zoo director stated before importing wild-caught elephants from Swaziland to his zoo in 2016: “It’s not a question of ‘if’ but a question of ‘when’ we will have young elephant calves born here. . . That’s going to skyrocket the attendance like nothing ever has here before.”
 
No elephant born in captivity has ever, or will ever, be introduced to their range country, even though reintroduction of a species is a key part of legitimate conservation programs.
 
In the end, we are pleased that the Fort Worth Zoo’s deal did not take place. It would have created a considerable financial incentive for other countries to engage in live elephant trafficking and harmed elephant conservation efforts. However, we need to remain on guard. As zoos become more desperate, we will see astronomically high prices put on elephants’ heads, the breeding of elephants at very young ages, and more captures of wild elephants that traumatize entire families. Zoos always have been, and will continue to be, players in the wildlife trade.

A world without elephants is simply unthinkable, and yet…

African elephants are just a step or two away from extinction, new report warns

Happy 13th Birthday Chip!

Chip is the last of 10 dogs (Scamper, Daisy Mae, Brandy, Lupa, Sydney, Beau, Hawke, Harley, Lucky) we have shared our lives with over the past 23 years. Today he is 13 years old and still bright-eyed and bushy tailed. Though, like his senior pet parents, he has his fair share of aches and pains. But that doesn’t stop him. Like us, he perseveres and welcomes each new day with enthusiasm, joy and a sense of adventure.

We love our Chip dearly and back in 2009 when we adopted him and his bonded pal Scamp from a cattle dog rescue, we could not have imagined how wonderful he would turn out. As a smooth-coated collie German shepherd cross he had been languishing at the blue heeler rescue for several months and no one wanted to take a chance on him due to behavior issues like barking, growling and lunging at prospective adopters. We paid over $300 for our little cattle dog Scamper and Chip was thrown in for free…just to get rid of him, I guess. On the four hour trip home neither pup made a peep, but there was lots of chaos and drama in the coming weeks after we brought them home. Eventually, they settled in. Luckily, both had an inate love of cats and our other two old dogs accepted the rowdy youngsters quite readily. From there, it was quite a ride and tons of fun with these two characters.

We lost our beloved Scamper in 2017 and since then Chip and I have become even closer. He’s my buddy and I’m usually having a conversation with him as we walk the property. I get stuff off my chest and he wonders what in the world I’m talking about but he has the courtesy to look up into my eyes with that expression only dogs have that says, yes, I know how you feel and I’m here for you.

Bless you dear Chip and happy birthday!

Quote of the Day and Meet Leo

Who would have thought chimps loved brushing their teeth…just like we do! Check out this Amazon wishlist that includes bamboo toothbrushes and other interesting items. Learn about this wonderful sanctuary for chimpanzees at Save the Chimps Sanctuary

Finally…Greyhound Racing Has Ended in Florida

Quote of the Day & Best Wishes for the New Year!

“When you recover or discover something that nourishes your soul and brings joy, care enough about yourself to make room for it in your life.” — Jean Shinoda Bolen

Wishing You All a Merry Christmas & Happy Hanukkah

A reblog of a favorite post!

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Merry, Merry Christmas! Wishing you Peace, Love & Happiness in this, the most magical, time of year.

Wishing you all a Merry Christmas! Enjoy this Giant Vegan Sausage Roll from Lazy Cat Kitchen

Giant vegan sausage roll

Cat Quote of the Day

“Owners of dogs will have noticed that, if you provide them with food and water and shelter and affection, they will think you are God. Whereas owners of cats are compelled to realize that, if you provide them with food and water and affection, they draw the conclusion that they are God.” – Christopher Hitchens

Meet Bear, a sleepy little fluffy tabby.

Quote of the Day & Meet Mist

“Time spent with cats is never wasted.” — Sigmund Freud

Beautiful, silvery gray Mist; mom to Boo, Bear, Little Joe and Tommy, has wonderfully expressive light green eyes and an exceptionally sweet personality.

Cat Quote of the Day & Meet Boo

“What greater gift than the love of a cat.” – Charles Dickens

Boo has oodles of catitude!

I am currently fostering/socializing a family of feral cats who found access to the crawl space under my house last winter. I have looked after momma Mist for about a year with round the clock feedings and a number of straw-filled shelters for her and her kittens.

Quote of the Day

“It’s not the load that breaks you down, it’s the way you carry it.”

– Lou Holtz 

Breaking news: Israel prepares to ban the fur trade; first country to do so

Image and Story Excerpted from A Humane World, Humane Society of the United States Blog

Israel yesterday announced it intends to ban the fur trade. If successful, it would be the first nation to end the buying and selling of a cruel commodity that has fallen out of favor in the fashion industry and with consumers.

Israel’s ban would make only a few minor exceptions for religious purposes and tradition. While some European nations such as Austria and Croatia have already banned all fur farming, they continue to allow fur sales. The United Kingdom has also banned fur farming, and Humane Society Internationa/U.K. is now leading the #FurFreeBritain campaign aimed at ending fur sales in that country.

Making the announcement, Israel’s environmental protection minister Gila Gamliel did not hesitate to call the use of fur in fashion exactly was it is: immoral.

Read the story…

Super-Yummy Mushroom Walnut Dumplings from Livin’ La Vegan Life

I make these quite often and they’re so delicious. I add chopped spinach, garlic and sometimes vegan cheese and liquid smoke, and I also change up the type of mushrooms. You can get creative with these using myriad dipping sauces, and the base of mushrooms and walnuts is simply amazing! I also use pistachios and macadamias or combos. Get the recipe at this wonderful food blog I follow, “Livin’ La Vegan Life.”

Quote of the Day

“How it is that animals understand things I do not know, but it is certain that they do understand. Perhaps there is a language which is not made of words and everything in the world understands it. Perhaps there is a soul hidden in everything and it can always speak, without even making a sound, to another soul.” ― Frances Hodgson Burnett

Beauty Brands That Still Test on Animals

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As a PETA Investigation and Rescue Fund monthly member, I check this list frequently to ensure I am not using any products from companies that continue to test on animals.

For example, I use Charlotte Tilbury makeup which is cruelty-free but was considering giving another brand, Clinique, a try because their moisturizer is less expensive. Well, Clinique is owned by Estee Lauder and is on the list of companies that do test so I will continue with CT and products on the below list.

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Quote of the Day & Meet Yvette

Get to know YVETTE

My name is Yvette and Save the Chimps is currently fundraising for new climbing structures on my island home, through their Giving Day for Apes campaign!

I was born in Africa in approximately 1965 and spent over three decades being used as a breeder for laboratories, while being used in medical research in between births. In 2000 I became part of a small group of middle-aged females. When us high-spirited ladies first met there was a bit of drama and they needed a mediator. I brought a calmness to the situation and was described as the “go between girl.”

This is when I met my best friend Mandy and formed a friendship that brought both of us incredible joy and companionship over the years. I shared my food and enrichment with her and sharing is not a common characteristic for a chimpanzee, but it was so much more. We were inseparable. We were among the 266 chimpanzees rescued by Save the Chimps in 2002 and migrated to Florida in March 2011 where we spent our days exploring our beautiful island home and basking in the Florida sun together. We were often spotted watching the sunset together and at bedtime, we made fluffy nests and slept side by side every night. Sadly, Mandy passed away in 2016. The group seemed to know I was grieving and many of the boys were extra kind to me. Kendra, a young girl who adored Mandy and followed her everywhere, stayed close to me and transferred much of that affection toward me. The support meant a lot to me while I grieved the loss of my best friend.

I am a respected matriarch who provides guidance and comfort to many of the boys in the group. This is especially true for my relationship with Seve, a male who has struggled with a difficult past. When’s he’s feeling agitated, he will seek me out for comfort and solace. My soothing presence while I groom him can prevent him from escalating into self-abuse when he is experiencing extreme stress. I am also strong and have no problem stepping up and putting the boys in line when they need it. Drama seems to be a daily occurrence in chimp life and I will definitely express my opinion about the situation. I’m happy to be spending my golden years surrounded by the companionship of my chimpanzee family, the loving daily care by staff, and the freedom to choose how I would like to spend my days.

Quote of the Day

“Today, the nature that surrounds us is no longer admired, but “devoured”. We must return to contemplation; so as not to be distracted by a thousand useless things, we must find silence; for the heart not to become sick, we must be still.” Pope Francis

200 Wild Animals Removed From Tim Stark’s Roadside Zoo

The despicable Tim Stark seen in Netflix’s Tiger King is going down…finally.

This post can be read at HSUS, A Humane World blog

200-plus wild animals removed from notorious Indiana roadside zoo

New wolf pups on Isle Royale bring promise of recovery for a struggling population

Image and excerpt from HSUS Blog, A Humane World

The first wolf pups in several years have been born on Isle Royale in Michigan, the National Park Service reported this week.

This is exciting news. We have followed the progress of the wolves on this remote island close to Canada for years and championed their survival. Albeit small, Isle Royale illustrates, in a microcosm, the important role wolves play in their ecosystems, and the harm that can ensue when they are removed from the habitats they have historically occupied. It’s an especially important lesson at a time when wolves elsewhere in our country are about to lose their federal protections, making them easy targets for trophy hunters and trappers.

Read more at A Humane World

Nubby the Boxer

The non-profit rescue organization in this heartwarming video is W.E.A.R. (Warriors Educate About Rescue)

Ten Ways to Be Amazing Today from the Good Life Project’s “Living Creed”

Here’s an oldie, but goodie. I originally posted in 2014, the year I started this blog.

I write 99 percent of my “Ways to Be Amazing” posts. They are simple ideas that tend to shape my day. Today’s list is from the Good Life Project’s “Living Creed” by Jonathan Fields. You can see the whole poster at Good Life Project. It’s a dynamic (living) document that’s meant to evolve over time, and to reflect our commitment to certain choices we make in life. Of course, everyone has their own unique priorities and values, but I like this short list from the creed.

1. Expose your soul, vulnerability is a gateway to strength.
2. Choose gratitude over greed.
3. Align what you do with who you are and you’ll become what you need to be.
4. Build a tribe, people matter.
5. Move your body, feed your brain.
6. Lighten up, if you can’t laugh at yourself, others will happily do it for you.
7. The quest to create something from nothing is…

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Wildlife Photography “Comedy” Awards 2020 Finalists ~ My Favs

This competition aims to raise awareness about conservation through a humorous, upbeat, and positive association with animals.

See them all at Bored Panda

Whales, dolphins and porpoises face momentous challenges to their survival today. ~ A Humane World Blog

Whales, dolphins and porpoises, known collectively as cetaceans, face momentous challenges to their survival today. Many of these animals are disappearing right before our eyes, like the Chinese river dolphin, declared possibly extinct in 2017, and the Mexican vaquita, a species of porpoise that is all but extinct with only 10 individuals likely remaining in the Gulf of California.

This week, more than 250 cetacean experts from over 40 countries took the unprecedented step of sending global leaders an open statement urging swift action to save cetaceans before it’s too late.

The scientists estimate that of the 90 cetacean species now around, more than half have a “concerning conservation status” and might be swimming toward extinction. Thirteen species have already been listed as “critically endangered” or “endangered.” Many discrete populations are also in trouble and could become locally or regionally extinct.

Read more at A Humane World

Be Still ~ Poem by Mary Davis

Be still and know that all wisdom lies within.

Be still and be vigilant for promptings of the soul.

Be still and remember your magnificence.

Be still and trust in infinite support.

Be still and see the dawn of a new idea.

Be still and sense the next step to take.

Be still and feel the growing courage to follow your dreams.

Be still and believe the perfect plan is unfolding for you.

Be still and ask clearly for your heart’s desire.

Be still and make space for the soft voice of the heart to answer.

Be still and offer your services to divine will.

Be still and feel oneness with all things.

Quote of the Day & Ode to Little Rock

Little Rock
1969 (estimate) – 2020

“What we have once enjoyed we can never lose. All that we love deeply becomes a part of us.” – Helen Keller

Photo and Article from Save the Chimps Sanctuary in Florida:

With great sadness we share the passing of Little Rock, a beloved member of our Save the Chimps family. Little Rock’s origins are a mystery, as is how she acquired her name. Her earliest records are from 1981, but she was already an adult by then. Her birthday is an estimate due to the lack of records of her earlier life. She was most likely born sometime between 1962 and 1969, possibly in the wild in Africa. What we do know is she belonged to a pharmaceutical company in Pennsylvania before she was sent to The Coulston Foundation, a research lab in Alamogordo, NM.

During her 20 years at The Coulston Foundation, Little Rock was used both as a breeder and in medical experiments. She had ten children, all of whom were taken from her shortly after birth. For all of those years, Little Rock lived in a steel and concrete cage; she never saw trees or felt the grass under her feet.

Save the Chimps rescued Little Rock in 2002, when The Coulston Foundation went bankrupt and Save the Chimps took custody of their 266 chimpanzees. Little Rock’s new caregiver noticed that she didn’t respond to her name or to sounds and noises like other chimps. Little Rock’s records were thoroughly checked and we found two written notations of her deafness, one recorded in 1998 and one in 2001. There is no information on how long Little Rock had been deaf or what might have caused her hearing loss. Little Rock was so attentive and attuned to her surroundings that it was easy to forget that she was deaf. She always communicated effectively with her human caregivers and other chimps, using gestures and body language as well as vocalizations.

Little Rock lived in a large group of chimps known as “Doug’s Family” and was a beloved member of the group. Together they shared a spacious island home with grass, trees, hills, and platforms. She was a very devoted and loyal chimp. Little Rock was often found with her best friend Tanya, who sadly passed away in 2013. After Tanya’s death, Andrea the Second, the younger of two Andreas in the group, became Little Rock’s new companion, lovingly watching over Little Rock and making sure she was never lonely. Over the years Little Rock also enjoyed friendships with Pepsi, September, Daisy, and Angie.

Although Little Rock was elderly, she had a zest for life. Her determination to overcome adversity and enjoy her retirement to its fullest is something that is easy to admire and remains an inspiration to us all.

Little Rock died from natural causes and will be sorely missed by all who knew her. We find comfort in knowing that she spent the last eighteen years of her life experiencing love and companionship and we thank you, our supporters, for making that possible.

Rest in peace, Little Rock. We will miss you always.

Quote of the Day

“Before you get a dog, you can’t quite imagine what living with one might be like; afterward, you can’t imagine living any other way.” Caroline Knapp

Skeletal Weimaraner rescued from puppy mill begins her journey of hope with 30 other dogs

Photo and articleexcerpt from HSUS blog, A Humane World:

It was a long road for Pearl, who nearly didn’t survive after her rescue last December. She left the Caldwell County Animal Shelter this week. a well-rounded and healthy dog. Photo by Brent B. Clark/AP Images for the HSUS

The puppy miller responsible for her condition—who was featured in the HSUS Horrible Hundred report and who was associated with the American Kennel Club—had been convicted of animal cruelty. The court also finally released Pearl and more than 30 other dogs rescued from that mill from legal limbo, freeing them up for adoption.

This week, with our staff assisting, Pearl and the other dogs were transported out of the Caldwell County Animal Shelter, where they were living for nearly nine months until the conclusion of the case. The shelter staff gave them all of the TLC they needed for a full recovery, and yesterday the animals, all bright-eyed and bushy-tailed, left for our amazing shelter and rescue partners who will place them for adoption into loving homes.
When the authorities first found Pearl last December, she was not just terribly emaciated. She was also carrying seven puppies, but because of her dire condition four died at birth at the puppy mill before they could even be rescued. The remaining three survived, thanks to round-the-clock care from local veterinarian Dr. Alina Soderholm, who later adopted one of the pups.

Read more…A Humane World

Quote of the Day

“Flowers always make people better, happier, and more helpful; they are sunshine, food and medicine for the soul.” ~ Luther Burbank

 

Quote of the Day

“Compassion is the ultimate expression of your highest self.” — Russell Simmons

Chip

White Chocolate Strawberry-Rose Cheesecake Recipe {Gluten Free, Paleo, Raw, Vegan} | the kind life

https://thekindlife.com/blog/2020/08/white-chocolate-strawberry-rose-cheesecake-recipe-gluten-free-paleo-raw-vegan/

From The Kind Life ~ Alicia Silverstone