Animal Bytes By Carol Roche

ANIMAL STARS

For those of us on the plus side of fifty, the name Farfel is an endearing memory of childhood and the early days of television. Born in the early 50's as the wooden hound-dog puppet of ventriloquist Jimmy Nelson and the pet of his talking dummy Danny O'Day, Farfel's appeal led to his selection as pitchman for the Nestleís company from 1953-1964.

Each Nestle ads began with Farfel reciting N-E-S-T-L-E-S, and ended with the word C-H-A-A-A-CLAT, delivered after an extended yarn, and ending with a distinctive snapping shut of his jaws.

An immediate hit with the public, Farfel and his friends were regulars on the Texaco Star Theater with Milton Berle, and he was seen frequently seen on The Ed Sullivan show well into the early 60's.

He eventually retired from Nestles in 1964, however, in 1991, a namesake Farfel made a guest appearance on the Seinfield Show in the form of a poorly trained, anxiety-producing hound with no social skills.

While the rejuvenated Farfel looked nothing like the original, it is somehow reassuring to know that, at least, in certain circles, he has not been forgotten. In fact, for those of us in a certain age group, Farfel's CH-A-A-A-Clat remains not lonely a delicious mantra for the joy of chocolate, but a charming remembrance of a much simpler time.

WARM WEATHER TIPS

Provide plenty of water and shade for your pets while they're enjoying the great outdoors so they can stay cool. Pets need exercise even when it is hot, but extra care needs to be taken with older dogs, short-nosed dogs, and those with thick coats. On very hot days, limit exercise to early morning or evening hours.

In summer heat your pet can suffer from heat exhaustion and heat stroke. These conditions are very serious and could cause your pet to die. You should be aware of the signs of heat stress, which could include heavy panting, glazed eyes, rapid pulse, unsteadiness, a staggering gait, vomiting, or a deep red or purple tongue.

If your pet does become overheated, you need to immediately lower his body temperature. Move your pet into the shade and apply cool (not cold) water over his body to gradually lower his core body temperature. Apply cold towels or ice packs to your pet's head, neck, and chest only. Let your pet drink small amounts of water or lick ice cubes. Most importantly, get him to a veterinarian immediately.

In warm weather you may also be tempted to take your pet with you in the car while you travel or do errands. But during warm weather, the inside of your car can reach 120° in a matter of minutes, even if you're parked in the shade. Pets who are left in hot cars even briefly can suffer from heat exhaustion, heat stroke, brain damage, and can even die.

And if you do happen to see a pet in a car alone during the hot summer months, alert the management of the store where the car is parked. If the owner does not return promptly, call local animal control or the police department immediately.

UW PET PALS

Pet Pals was developed by of the University of Wisconsin School of Veterinary Medicine, and the Child Life Department at UW Children's Hospital, to provide volunteer teams of caring canines and their owners to visit area hospitals and nursing homes.

Volunteers receive specialized training at the UW School of Veterinary Medicine, and UW Childrenís Hospital, and adult dogs undergo rigorous health and behavior evaluations before acceptance into the program.

For information on the program and how to become a team member call Linda Sullivan at at the UW School of Veterinary Medicine at 608-263-6046.

ARE YOU AWARE?

The Humane Society of the United States offers up to $5,000 for information leading to convictions of individuals participating in organized dog fighting.

The cruelty of organized dog fighting has led to over states passing felony legislation prohibiting the activity. Don't walk away from animals in need! Should you suspect dog fighting in your community, call the Humane Society's report line at 202-452-1100.

Think before you shop, support your local Mom & Pop!

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