Library speaker series promotes positive pet ownership

On May 3 Human Society Urban Wildlife Field Director Laura Simon will kick-off Amity Animal Rescue Fund's speaker series with "Help! There's a Raccoon in my Chimney!".... and Other Unexpected Wildlife Problems. This discussion will take place from 7 to 8 p.m.
This entertaining yet informative presentation will focus on typical wildlife problems encountered by area resident’s and provide effective solutions. The presentation is based on Simon's 20 years of experience running a wildlife hotline for the Humane Society of the United States. During Spring and Summer, the hotline is kept busy with calls from panicked residents who find themselves face to face with a raccoon in the kitchen, a skunk under the deck, baby birds fallen from a nest, or a woodpecker tapping loudly on the house at 5 a.m. The solution to these problems can be quite simple, often requiring nothing more than a few common household tools and a basic understanding of the animal's motivation and behavioral ecology. Bring your questions!
Simon is the Field Director of the Urban Wildlife Program for the Humane Society of the United States. She is also the President of the Connecticut Wildlife Rehabilitators Association, a licensed Nuisance Wildlife Control Operator, and guest wildlife columnist for area publications. Her special expertise in resolving skunk issues led to a guest appearance on the Ellen DeGeneres show and was the basis for the popular children's book, One Smart Skunk.

On May 16 Dr. Tracy Johnson, Country Companion Veterinary Services, will discuss Dog Bites and how to prevent them from happening. This talk is geared toward children and will take place from 6 to 7 p.m.
Many dogs are given up or euthanized because they bite. Biting can happen for many reasons and if owners don't know how to read a dog's body language, they may be putting themselves or their children at risk The “Be a Tree Program” is a great way to present the information on how to interact with a dog to prevent bites." Dog bites to children are considered to be a serious public health problem by public health agencies and veterinary medical associations worldwide. Statistics show that most bites are by the family dog or other dog known to the child. Public education has an important role in reducing dog bite risk to children. Please join us for this very informative event.

On May 31 Dr. Elisa , Country Companions Veterinary Services will discuss Basic First Aid for Small Animals. The talk will take place from 7 to 8 p.m.
This discussion will cover the most common emergency situations faced by pet owners. Dr. Elisa will review the best ways to keep you and your pet safe, and what to do in the event of a medical emergency. Topics including the best way to handle animals, first aid for wounds, heatstroke, and seizures as well as basic CPR. “Annie”, One of Dr. Elisa’s family dogs, will be on hand to demonstrate first aid techniques.
All speakers will be at Woodbridge Library in the main meeting room.