2012 Top Ten

2012 was a great year for us here at the HSEC blog. We love doing our part to spread the word about the remarkable pets and people at HSEC. So let's take a look back at the posts that helped to make this year so special - our top ten posts from 2012! We'll also give you a sneak peak into what you can expect in 2013.

Whether you're waiting for the ball to drop or recuperating from an excess of celebration, we hope you enjoy looking back with us, and perhaps catching up on a post or two that passed you by.

10. Microchipping: Bring Your Buddy Home

Curious about microchipping, the process that can return a lost pet via a tiny permanent implant? Check out this post for all of the details. Microchipping increases the chance that your lost pet will be safely returned. The procedure is quick and relatively painless, and is commonly performed at events about town by groups like Spay Today.

In 2013... look for a series of posts about what to do if your buddy goes missing.

9. Feline Immunodeficiency Virus: Fiction vs. Fact

Read this post to get the facts about Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV), a commonly stigmatized disease that attacks an infected cat's immune system. The condition is not a death sentence, nor is it as communicable as some have suggested. Cats with FIV can and do live long and healthy lives.

In 2013... look for a post about seizure disorders in cats and dogs. If you would like us to discuss a particular condition, suggest one in the comments!

8. How to Greet a Strange Dog

Every dog is different, but they all speak a common language - one that many people are prone to misinterpret. This post contains vital information for interacting with strange dogs in public. Excellent information for children in particular!

In 2013... look for more posts about animal communication. What are your cats thinking when they look at you, anyway?

7. Annie: Little Cat, BIG Personality!

Annie sporting kitty caps on her claws

Annie is an HSEC superstar - a young cat with Congenital Upper Eyelid Agenesis, a birth defect that left her without upper eyelids. Despite this, Annie is as playful and friendly as any kitty can be. Since the original August post, Annie has undergone successful eye surgery, funded with the money YOU raised! She is no longer in danger of going blind from her condition. Annie is still available for adoption.

In 2013... look for more posts featuring HSEC residents, current and former. In January we'll kick off with weekly success stories to get the year started right!

6. Pack Up Your Paws Part I and Part II

This two-part series explore the ins and outs of taking your pets on vacation. From considering whether it is a good idea to bring the animals along, to travel safety, to what to do once you get there, these posts cover it all. If you're already dreaming of that perfect summer vacation, start planning now!

In 2013... look for a post about local dog-friendly locations and events, so you and your buddy can stay-cation with style!

5. I Found A Stray - Now What?

We've all seen strays on the side of the road and felt moved to help them. But what do you do when you find a stray? What are the procedures for surrendering the animal to an organization that will care for them? How should you try to contact the owner? This post answers these common questions, plus more. A great basic informational source.

In 2013... look for posts about the inner workings of HSEC and how the organization functions.

4. Pet People Are Healthy People

It's not just an old wives' tale. Pet owners really do live happier, healthier lives. Get the scientific info in this post, and take a look at the New Leash on Life program, which pairs dogs from animal welfare organizations with prison inmates.

In 2013... look for posts about another way that dogs can keep you healthy - as running buddies! We'll help you and your furry couch potato get in shape for the upcoming Canine Crawl 5k on March 17th.

3. Giving Pets as Gifts

This recent post has already jumped up the charts to become one of the most popular of 2012. Maybe you've already promised someone a puppy for Christmas, or you're thinking ahead to all those birthdays and special events in the upcoming year. Read this post, and learn how to gift animals the right way.

In 2013... look for posts about making the decision to adopt at all stages of life, from college to retirement.

2. Feral Cats - Wild Animals, Not Stray Pets

Those kitties hanging out around the dumpster might not be lost pets. It's likely that they're ferals, cats who have not been raised around humans and are not friendly. Ferals are a controversial subject and can cause real problems in a community. This post outlines suggestions for handing this issue and takes a look at local groups that assist this unique animal population.

In 2013... look for more posts featuring our local partners in the animal welfare community.

1. Flea and Tick Season 2012

Far and away, our most viewed post in 2012 was this entry about the last flea and tick season, which was made even more virulent by the preceding mild winter. Since we're in the midst of another gentle winter, it's a good time to review this information. It's not that cold outside - in a climate like ours, pets need flea and tick prevention all year round.

In 2013... look for more seasonally relevant information, including an upcoming post about winter safety.





We hope your year was as good as ours! Thank you for all of your support over the last twelve months, and we hope we've earned it again for the next twelve. In return, look for us to keep connecting you to the latest from HSEC... in 2013 and beyond!