Pet grooming washing machine, abuse or not?

[Agaliha]

I saw this on Evening Magazine tonight and I was pretty disgusted. There's a washing machine for dogs and cats.

I found a video of a poor cat in the same model:
http://www.evtv1.com/player.aspx?itemnum=6537 (http://www.evtv1.com/player.aspx?itemnum=6537)
Please watch it. This poor cat is so stressed out. The company "Pet Spa" claims its safe and relaxing-- is it? I don't think so. That cat is beating itself against the glass.
Everyone that commented to that (except for like two people) said it was cruel and abuse.
Edit: It might not be the specific "Pet Spa" brand but it's the same sort of device, possibly by a different company (there seems to be more than one that make these)

The video of the cat on Evening Magazine was panting and frantically trying to get out. In case you don't know, cats are not meant to pant. It's a sign of serious stress.

OHHH-- there's also a pretty long blow drying session too!

The company is: Pet Spa USA (http://www.petspausa.com)
There seems to be a few more too.

They also said water couldn't get into into their eyes, ears or mouth...but there's no way to ensure the pet doesn't move from the ideal location. They move around. If flea killer shampoo is there, I would think that could be dangerous...it could be ingested or get in their eyes.

I would never ever put my pets in that thing. The reporter on Evening Magazine said it was "like a hurricane" (we went inside and got cleaned). Well if it was uncomfortable to him, why would it be fun for a pet?

I guess in reponse to that first video of the cat throwing itself on the glass, they released a press release: http://www.bubblespetspa.com/PetSpaFacts_2.doc
They say it's less stress than traditional grooming and at any signs of distress they're to take the pet out.
Then what happened-- the cat on the Evening Magazine clip (which I can't find) was panting. That's distress for a cat! Just about all the videos I saw of cats (not necessarly dogs) show distress. So...whatever.

Plus I really hope they don't use this thing on sick, injuried, or old cats. Seriously they could have a heart attack, stroke or other issues. Hell my cat Mulder sees something he thinks is "evil and scary" and he's scared for up to three days at times, thinking the "evilness" is out to get them. He'd be traumatized if I did this to him. Abyss too. and K2. I really think it's not something for all cats.

What do you think? Abuse? Not?


I personally find it disturbing and disgusting and I would never subject my pets to that for any reason. I don't like it. AT ALL. I'm not buying there PR BS either.

I will say that I have never taken my pets to get professionaly groomed. I wash them on my own, with wet washcloths. My sister has a cat and washes her in actually baths with no problem. I know many people that don't have issues. Is grooming THAT bad? Worse than this?

[Shanti]

Sorry but being put into a box and having water squirting all over you I cant see how this isnt cruel treatment because of the level of fear its causes and your not suppose to get water in their eyes or ears!
This should be banned.

Dogs too ain't going to be relaxed in a box thats spraying water all over them unless they are drugged! It goes against basic instinct! Trapped and being attacked...the attacker is water but to the animal that doesn't understand, its a threat of its life.

[Pinion]

Both of my dogs and all of my cats would come unglued in such a contraption. Actually, reading your post and then watching the video...well, profanity filter won't allow what came out of my mouth.


Who invented this garbage and who are the idiots who might use it? You can't cure crazy and you can't fix stupid...my heart breaks for the unfortunate animals (as usual).

[Shanti]

Here is a company that makes those things.
LINK (http://www.netwashamericas.com/)

Now where the heck is PETA?

I so want this to be banned!!

Dont own a pet if you dont have the patients to care for it!

[Agaliha]

What about a petition? I don't know if that could stop this though :(
There's already one operating in my state!

PS: Shanti there's more than one manufacturer!
There's:
Pet Spa USA (http://www.petspausa.com/)
LaunderPet
Bubbles Pet Spa

[_Banbha_]

How I feel about this?

All of these:

:eek: :ugh: :eyebrow: :meanhead: :goodgrief :flamer: :durrrr: :twitch: :blushake: :raining: :yikes: :scream: :geez: :G :dis: :ahhhhhhh: :lookaroun :foh: :wtf: :sadeyes:

[Shanti]

I am already e-mailing the SPCA and who ever I can find to e-mail...The national humane society too!

[BlueEyedWolf]

That is just wrong. Poor, poor kitty!
I'd hate to be that cat's owner once they get home.
Here comes the assination kitty looking for him.

[Shanti]

Ok who can I all e-mail,,, and please take 5 minutes and e-mail too.
I am so PO'd!!

[_Banbha_]

I am already e-mailing the SPCA and who ever I can find to e-mail...The national humane society too!

The company that makes them is Canadian. I don't actually know much about Canadian law and what branch regulates animal cruelty there.

[Shanti]

What about a petition? I don't know if that could stop this though :(
There's already one operating in my state!

PS: Shanti there's more than one manufacturer!
There's:
Pet Spa USA (http://www.petspausa.com/)
LaunderPet
Bubbles Pet Spa
Hey a petition. Good idea!!
How can we do an online one and send it to the SCPA and the Humane society of the US and who ever else we can think of?
Anyone, can you help with this idea?

[Shanti]

I dont have time now to work on this but tomorrow its my top priority!!

I will need help though. I never tried to stop something this big before.

[Agaliha]

I believe this pet "washing machine" (water and 18 minute long blow drying sort of thing) started in Japan.

Pet Spa USA (http://www.petspausa.com/) says that it was created by animal behaviorists and vets! BS. Anyone that knows cats (especially) would know this is not cool.

[Shanti]

I believe this pet "washing machine" (water and 18 minute long blow drying sort of thing) started in Japan.

Pet Spa USA (http://www.petspausa.com/) says that it was created by animal behaviorists and vets! BS. Anyone that knows cats (especially) would know this is not cool.
Vets know you are suppose to keep the water out of the animals eyes and ears too!!

[Agaliha]

Hey a petition. Good idea!!
How can we do an online one and send it to the SCPA and the Humane society of the US and who ever else we can think of?
Anyone, can you help with this idea?

Here's the best place for online petitions:
PetitionOnline.com (http://rds.yahoo.com/_ylt=A0oGkwOCczFG0WkB2DFXNyoA;_ylu=X3oDMTE3ZThvcWIzBGNvbG8DdwRsA1dTMQRwb3MDMQRzZWMDc3IEdnRpZANGODI0X zExNQ--/SIG=11iacqdt5/EXP=1177732354/**http%3a//www.petitiononline.com/)
Anyone going to make one? I don't want to make of if they'll be doubles or more.

[Shanti]

Here's the best place for online petitions:
PetitionOnline.com (http://rds.yahoo.com/_ylt=A0oGkwOCczFG0WkB2DFXNyoA;_ylu=X3oDMTE3ZThvcWIzBGNvbG8DdwRsA1dTMQRwb3MDMQRzZWMDc3IEdnRpZANGODI0X zExNQ--/SIG=11iacqdt5/EXP=1177732354/**http%3a//www.petitiononline.com/)
Anyone going to make one? I don't want to make of if they'll be doubles or more.
How about if we work on it together. Draw a basic one up and add or alter till what we want said is said then one of us can put it up?
I dont have time tonight cause I'm posting in between getting kids and pets ready for bed. Tomorrow I have some time.

[Agaliha]

Vets know you are suppose to keep the water out of the animals eyes and ears too!!

Here's the BS they said in their FAQ:
How do you prevent water from pet’s eyes and ears?
The unique design was created by a team of Veterinaries, Animal Behaviorists and engineers looking for the well being of the Pet. There are nozzles in the bottom, top, and all sides but the front side, the pet will look through the safety glass door so no water will go directly in eyes or ears. Open ears dog and cats you will need to use cotton balls same as traditional bathing.



What's so stupid about their answer is that the pets are moving around and therefore can move away from the optimal area where the water jets are shooting. Nothing is stopping them from NOT looking out the window. They CAN get water in their ears, eyes, nose, mouth...even breathe it in! That's bad with just water alone, but also soap and even flea killer?

[Shanti]

Here's the BS they said in their FAQ:



What's so stupid about their answer is that the pets are moving around and therefore can move away from the optimal area where the water jets aren't shooting. Nothing is stopping them from NOT looking out the window. They CAN get water in their ears, eyes, nose, mouth...even breathe it in! That's bad with just water alone, but also soap and even flea killer?Exactly! They prob bought off a vet or to thus have their endorsement!
i want to start working on this and i keep stopping what I am doing here, only to find my emotions are to flared to concentrate. I have to mellow out. I am so angry this has gone on as much as it has already!

[Catiana]

no flipping way, that thing is totally unacceptable.

[Agaliha]

What I'm curious about is, is this such an impovemnt from traditional grooming? These companies keep saying its oh soooo better. As I said, I never have had my pets at a groomers so I don't know. Anyone know?

I assume the stress level and issues differ with the pet in traditional grooming, but this...? Doesn't seem like an improvment at all. It's either equally stressful or more so. I'm banking on MORE so.

At least with traditional grooming the human can control the direction and flow of the water...this things is a up/down/left/right/behind water jet shooters where the cat and dog is assulted. Instinct is to run...and that causes serious stress (like panting in cats) and fear, injury and mental trauma. That's just one aspect.
This thing seems wrong in all angles. And just because some cats and dogs can deal with it doesn't mean it's okay.

[Shanti]

In the process of research.
America Morning on CNN didnt take it too seriously!
M. O'BRIEN: You never know what you'll find on YouTube. Here's one that is near the top of favorites. It shows a cat in awashing machine . The clips had more than a half million hits. As you can imagine, animal lovers are not too happy about it. Jeanne Moos will tell you about a this story and we tell you, no animals were harmed in the making of this piece.

(BEGIN VIDEOTAPE)

JEANNE MOOS, CNN CORRESPONDENT, (voice over): The cat may be out of the bag, but it's in the washing machine.

You put the cat in the machine.

UNIDENTIFIED FEMALE: The cat?

MOOS: Actually, the pet washing machine is old hat. But this video on YouTube is making a splash. Kitty washing machine set to music.

MUSIC: Under the sea. Under the sea. Darling it's better down where it's wetter, take it from me

MOOS: Kitty's only in the wash cycle for less than a minute on YouTube, but cat wash rocketed on to BuzzFeed, which tracks the most discussed topics on the web. The result?Pet culture wars. Is it a feline concentration camp or is it horrible? Really, really horribly funny?

UNIDENTIFIED FEMALE: It looks like it's dying. Why would do you that?

UNIDENTIFIED FEMALE: That's awful! Oh.

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: How do you know when it's done? Is the cat dead or something? MOOS: Well actually a full wash, rinse and dry lasts about 20 minutes and the folks who marketPet Spa to pet groomers say it reduces pet stress. Tell that to kitty.

UNIDENTIFIED FEMALE: Is it tumbling around or something?

MOOS: No, no, it doesn't tumble.

The water comes out in massaging jets. The makers say it gets pets really clean and dogs really like it, though cats tend to freak out at first. Who wouldn't freak out?

UNIDENTIFIED FEMALE: It's OK, babe, you're just taking a shower.

MOOS: And we all know how much cats love showers. Type in "cat bath" and you get 400 hits on YouTube. This one's entitled "cat bath hell." Maybe a catwashing machine would be easier.

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: No, that looks illegal.

MOOS: One outraged e-mailer compared it to waterboard, when interrogators pour water on suspects to get them to talk.

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: They ought to try putting some humans in there.

MOOS: Well, actually, the lifetime show, "Off The Leash," did, and she survived. So did the now famous YouTube cat, though his owner did take him out early.

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: They clean themselves.

MOOS: The makers of Pet Spa say the video misrepresents the product that they spent 13 years developing it with the help of animal behaviorists and no pet has ever been injured. But the People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals say "using this machine is as ridiculous as tossing toddlers in the dishwasher."

UNIDENTIFIED FEMALE: If it's squirted on the right place, it is would feel good.

UNIDENTIFIED FEMALE: I don't like that. Can I leave now?

MOOS: She can. Not the cat.

Jeanne Moos, CNN, New York.

(END VIDEOTAPE)

M. O'BRIEN: All right. I have a couple of dogs who would react the same way. So when they say dogs like it, that's not true.

S. O'BRIEN: It just seems mean to me. And that poor cat. Just listen to it without the music, because the music's time of timed well to what's happening, but I think it looks just really cruel.

M. O'BRIEN: You know what they say in showbiz, Ali, never follow an animal. LINK (http://transcripts.cnn.com/TRANSCRIPTS/0702/01/ltm.03.html)

[Agaliha]

From the article:

Well actually a full wash, rinse and dry lasts about 20 minutes and the folks who marketPet Spa to pet groomers say it reduces pet stress.


That's a long time in...hell.
Reduces stress?
Have you ever used a blow dryer near a cat? Very rarely will they like it. All mine FREAK out. They run, hide and remain paranoid for days...popping at ever little thing. I don't think the dry cycle is exactly the same as a blow dryer, but still!
It's not fun for them at all. That first video shows it.


The makers of Pet Spa say the video misrepresents the product that they spent 13 years developing it with the help of animal behaviorists and no pet has ever been injured. But the People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals say "using this machine is as ridiculous as tossing toddlers in the dishwasher."


I don't think it misrepresents anything! It shows the reality of it. Not all cats will like it or do well. Most probably don't.
Look anyone who knows a thing about cats knows that they don't like water. Some do, but not when it's shooting out at you from all sides and they can't escape. The reporter on Evening Magazine got in it and said it was "like a hurricane" WTF? It's not a light misting. Hell my cat Abyss runs from rain. A lot of cats don't tolerate it.
Animal Behaviorist? BS! They seem to be paid off to spout this BS.
PETA-- I actually agree with them on this, totally.

[Agaliha]

Also they say that no animal has been harmed. Riiiight. If they're jumping around like that they might. There could even be internal issues too.
Another aspect is the harm of the stress. In people stress can and does shorten our lives. In a cat or dog? Probably the same! Stress is probably worse of them than us. Doing this once a month with it causing serious levels of stress might contribute to shortening their lifespan. This isn't something necessary. There are methods to be done to reduce the pets stress with grooming. Pets get stressed out when going to the vet, but you know what-- it's for a reason and usually necessary. This grooming device isn't. There's also the risk of heart attacks, strokes and other things (lung infections from breathing in water). Animals can have pre-existing issues we might not know about. If I would have put Fitty in that thing odds are she would have died, seeing as she must have had some unknown heart or stroke issue. With my pets if I can reduce their stress or so something in a gentler way I do. Even when I vacuum-- I wait till they run away from the area, I don't purposly vacuum around them where they'd get overly stressed. That's just me though.
I suprised none have died from using that thing already.

[AuroraWillow]

Worst. Idea. Ever.

Let's see....you have a box that shoots out water, and you put a cat in it. First bad idea, for several obvious reasons. Second, this is an unacceptable method of grooming for several more reasons:
1) The animal is moving. How do you know that its getting washed everywhere?
2) Part of the grooming process is brushing and de-shedding the fur. Does this "Cat Spa" do any of that? No. No it doesn't
3) This is of course not mentioning the fact that it's incredibly dangerous, and stupid
4) Did nobody tell these people that Cats + Water + Blow dryer = worst fecking idea ever? I tried to get my cats used to the blow dryer when they were little, and I have a nice scar across my breasts to show for it. Sure, put them in a box where they can't hurt anyone but themselves.

And, I bet its twice the cost for the worst grooming job possible. Whoever came up with this idea should be sent to live on a desert island full of scorpions and rattlesnakes. Maybe the snake wants a bath too.

[Shanti]

From the article:


That's a long time in...hell.
Reduces stress?
Have you ever used a blow dryer near a cat? Very rarely will they like it. All mine FREAK out. They run, hide and remain paranoid for days...popping at ever little thing. I don't think the dry cycle is exactly the same as a blow dryer, but still!
It's not fun for them at all. That first video shows it.



I don't think it misrepresents anything! It shows the reality of it. Not all cats will like it or do well. Most probably don't.
Look anyone who knows a thing about cats knows that they don't like water. Some do, but not when it's shooting out at you from all sides and they can't escape. The reporter on Evening Magazine got in it and said it was "like a hurricane" WTF? It's not a light misting. Hell my cat Abyss runs from rain. A lot of cats don't tolerate it.
Animal Behaviorist? BS! They seem to be paid off to spout this BS.
PETA-- I actually agree with them on this, totally.
This is all humane laziness and the neglect of the mental well being of the pets. If you cant 'handle' your pet, hire someone who can. And if your pet is so afraid of water, a tranquilizer from your vet and the gentleness and kindness of the human hand will serve the pet much better than this box and water jets!
My god this is bad stuff, and I don't think its good for dogs at all. This could easily make a dog that wasn't afraid of water, afraid!
I know my dogs would panic if i put them in there.
Many dogs accept a bath but shake and are nervous. Its the voice and touch of the owner that wins them over because they want to please their owner.
This box doesn't help dogs handle a bath!
I don't care how many nice videos they show. Heck its not like they show all the bad videos that were taken before getting good ones. And then the good ones are most likely edited here and there too.

I e-mailed PETA!!! I plan to do so again tomorrow. I want to know What they have done and are doing about this. I ain't going to get off PETA'S back either. They have caused so much ruckus of stupid shite, they sure can stop this if they really wanted too.
Why aren't they on the news in front of these companies protesting till something is done?
Their other causes they have made themselves noticed till adnausium de puke....they can do that with this too.

Hey Bill Mahr is a PETA person..another e-mail! :)

[AuroraWillow]

And, another thing....it really isn't that hard to bathe a cat. Really. This whole thing is totally unnecessary. Go to the pet store and buy some kitty wet naps, use them once every few weeks, and either have a professional groomer clean them every 6 months, or have someone help you dunk them in the tub. The animals are still not pleased (except for my retarded cat who likes to shower with me..), but that is less stressful than trapping them in a box and spraying them. And, it's also making sure that they're clean when they're all done.
If you're so lazy that you need a pet spa to clean your pet, for the love of god just get a pet rock.

[Agaliha]

PS:
I was focusing on cats more so than dogs because cats seem to react the worst. My dog also shakes and is nervous with normal baths in the bathtub so I do know many dogs would also be traumatized. The little ones could even jump like the cats. The big ones are just stuck in there unable to really move. And you know the large dogs are getting water, soap and flea killer in their eyes and ears. There's no way they couldn't. It's just bad all around.

Aurora: I agree.
I bathe my cats with wet washcloths with no soap. It's enough to keep their fur clean of any excess oil (from our hand), but isn't too stressful. Some even like it. My sister uses those wet nap things too as well as real baths (rarely).

[AuroraWillow]

Cats keep themselves pretty clean, so they don't really need to get bathed too often. The worst is the shedding. Brushing is more important than bathing. The wet naps are good because they keep them from stinking - especially when they clean themselves after they've eaten.....and then stink of canned cat food :hahugh:

I just don't get why someone thought that the pet owners of the world needed this....
I can just picture some crazy yuppie lady putting her little dog in one of these and traumatizing it for life...people just don't think.

[Agaliha]

Okay, here's the reasons they give for why traditional grooming is SOOOO bad and this is so much better:
From http://www.bubblespetspa.com/PetSpaFacts_2.doc



Bathing Cats:

Bathing a cat is very dangerous to the cat and the bather.
95% of our injuries (bites and scratches) occur as a result of hand bathing cats.
Cats typically do not like to be bathed, so they scratch or bite. The Pet Spa eliminates these injuries to the cat and the bather.
Cats are sometimes skunked or need to have urine/feces washed off of them. The Pet Spa provides a safe environment to remove these odors and chemicals.
Most cats have never been washed by hand and vets typically have to give cats sedatives or restrain them when washing is necessary. The Pet Spa eliminates this need and provides the cat the ability to move around freely and not be restrained.
Cats can break a bone or even break their necks and potentially hang themselves when in their harness during a hand bath. For these reasons, the safest way to bathe a cat is in the Pet Spa Cabin.
A very small percentage of pets that are washed in the Pet Spa cabin are cats. Other points:

The Pet Spa Cabin has a safety record of 15 years
Bubbles has safely washed over 1,000 pets in the cabin over the last 18 months
The owners of Bubbles Pet Spa have gone into the Pet Spa Cabin and ran the wash and dry cycle to ensure it was safe. If it’s safe for people, it’s safe for pets.
Customers have gone in the CabinGeneral Pet Spa facts:

The Pet Spa Cabin eliminates the stress produced by current pet cleaning methods.
Lower stress on pets compared to traditional bathing due to the fact that we do not use a restraining system and there is no stranger restraining or holding the pet.
The Cabin eliminates the need for punishment or sedatives when washing nervous or aggressive cats and dogs.
Several programs are available to meet the different needs of each Pet and breed.
The time of the bath is usually reduced in half compared to traditional bathing.
Our technology does not remove the Pets' natural protective coating which is regularly removed in traditional bathing methods. This natural coating protects the pet's skin against bacteria and skin disease.
You could bathe your pet as often as you want because the unique technology does not remove the natural protective coating of the Pet coat preventing them from skin problem in the future and creating a healthier coat.
The Cabin provides a warm hydro-massage shower stimulating the circulation which is very beneficial for arthritis, muscle weakness, physical therapy and rehabilitation.
Temperatures are precisely maintained at the recommended levels by the Board of Veterinary Medicine.
During the drying process the air is distributed evenly around the Cabin. This is more pleasant for the pet than the normal method using a direct stream of air.
Water and air temperatures are constantly monitored by the computer, which is programmed to automatically shut down the Cabin if changes of more than 3 degrees are detected.
The air inside the cabin is constantly renewed via a ventilation circuit.
The pet is placed looking through the window so that the water doesn't go directly into the eyes.
If the door is opened during the washing or drying cycle, the cabin's safety features automatically stop the process.
Reduces injuries to pets and staff.

Good enough explaination for any of you?
I'm still not buying all their BS.

The pet is placed looking through the window so that the water doesn't go directly into the eyes.
has some flawed thinking as I already posted about.


The Cabin provides a warm hydro-massage shower stimulating the circulation which is very beneficial for arthritis, muscle weakness, physical therapy and rehabilitation.

Wow. So jumping around in fear and anxiety is good for any pet in those conditions?! BS! They're talking about this device like it's a jucuzzi for people with water therapy.


OH! and why they're so "calm" after the fact is not because they like it-- it's because they're so exhausted and stressed out they can't do anything! Even cats that don't freak out, it has to be very stressful to them. Remember cats can even purr when it pain. They don't always give things away. Dogs too.

[Shanti]

Well as I google and try to find info, I see the goal is to get these things in as many vets and pet store as possible. I found advertizing for pet smart or petco that has one in a store. I found a lot of groomers advertising this junk.

And I found a PO'd PetSpa USA Owner too!
LINK (http://money.cnn.com/2007/02/02/smbusiness/kitty_wash/index.htm)

But no one is more offended than the maker of the product. "It's going to destroy our image," said Andres Diaz, the owner and inventor of Pet Spa, which markets and distributes a system to wash, de-flea and blow-dry dogs, cats and other small animals.

According to Diaz, the cat in the video was not well suited, behavior-wise, to be subjected to such a cleaning. He says some cats, like the one in the video, should be sedated and bathed under supervision at the veterinarian's office. Give me a break, these things are popping up in regular pet stores like petco. Who is going to make sure which critters are mentally suited for this?
Although the spa is mainly marketed to veterinarians and pet stores, which charge customers an average of $22 for a 20-minute wash, some pet owners have purchased the device for their homes. And who is making sure the private owner isnt being an ass?

[Shanti]

I want to know if this is true:from a post April 17, 2007
We went to Pet Expo in Mankato, Minnesota (allegedly the largest petstore in the state, and from the ones I’ve been too, the nicest aside from the petspa) and they had one of these things. I was at the check out looking at it in horror and the check out gal saw my look and said “I hate that thing… it’s so cruel… someone put a little yappy type dog in it last week and the poor thing freaked out so badly it died shortly after it was taken out.” LINK (http://wiikitty.com/?p=19)scroll to the bottom of page.

[Agaliha]

It probably is, Shanti! That's what I was talking about. The stress, possible stroke, heart problems and internal and mental and physical injuries.

Also, how does one know if a pet is mentally/behaviorly sound for this torture box? They don't, not until they get it in there. Then they'd probably want a minute or two saying some crap about the pet having to calm down. By then it could have already caused damage. Those pets aren't calm after because they like it, but because they so fricken exhausted and stressed out. They need to get a clue.

PS: Looking at those comments in that link, you can tell we're not alone in our disgust.

[Shanti]

I am finding a lot of PO'd people but its like nothing is happening.
I haven't found any org that challenged these companies. No private testing separate from the companies...nothing.

How many pets will have to die or be damaged in some way at the local pet smarts and petco's before someone, these animal welfare people, do something?

[Shanti]

I have to go to bed!! I have to get up in 3 hours!! Darn.
I'll continue my googling, typing, and reading tomorrow.

[Catiana]

Well as I google and try to find info, I see the goal is to get these things in as many vets and pet store as possible. I found advertizing for pet smart or petco that has one in a store. I found a lot of groomers advertising this junk.

And I found a PO'd PetSpa USA Owner too!
LINK (http://money.cnn.com/2007/02/02/smbusiness/kitty_wash/index.htm)

Give me a break, these things are popping up in regular pet stores like petco. Who is going to make sure which critters are mentally suited for this?
And who is making sure the private owner isnt being an ass?


The headquarters for Petsmart is here in Phoenix, not far from my house. If we can get verification that they are using this thing in one or more of their stores, I'll set up a protest in front of their building.

[Agaliha]

Here's the video of the reporter from "Evening Magazine" in the torture box: \

http://www.king5.com/video/backroads-index.html?nvid=138974&shu=1

They're laughing about it. Look how he a grown man is being drenched all over with the water. You know he got some in her eyes and mouth.

On the shows final cut he said it was litle a "hurricane" (rains).

And by watching it, it seems like quite a long time for a pet to be in there assulted with the water. Then the air.

Oh, no wait, he just said it:
Question: How would you describe the experience?
Him: ...The last few moments were like standing in the middle of a hurricane

They also said it was 98 degrees in there! WTF?????? 98 degrees? That's too hot isn't it?

[Shanti]

Stopping in on my way to bed. I was delayed going to bed. A rabbit is getting her nest ready for her first litter and i wanted to spend time with her cause she is real nervous.
Anyway..I heard him say while wiping his face, I cant really open my eyes.
A dog or cat isnt going to hold their eyes shut and I wonder how he would of felt if a chemical flea treatment would of been ordered!

[Shanti]

Were his face and hands red toward the end? 98? My pitt would have heat stroke in 98 temps. We have to be so careful in summer with her.

[Shanti]

I watched it again, the guy is red before he gets in. But I heard him say several times that its warm and he says its the warmest he's been in awhile.

So why didn't the video stop? He still has a rinse and blow dry left!!
If the wash is a hurricane is the blow dry a tornado?

[Cindlady2]

OK, I just read the whole thread..... soon as you find out where we can bitch put up some links and we'll all show up!
I sure hope you find some places that can do some good!

Good Luck and may the Mother help!

[Pinion]

soon as you find out where we can bitch put up some links and we'll all show up!
I sure hope you find some places that can do some good!

Good Luck and may the Mother help!


Me, too! I'll also post the links on all the Cat Boards.

[_Banbha_]

Me three! This is sick, sick, sick. It's a perverted TORTURE DEVICE that is being sold as a novelty item to pet stores. I'm repulsed by it and the stupidity and rank cruelty of the whole thing.

No kidding animals are dropping dead in there or soon after. What kind of mornic barbarians are we to allow this in our country in the first place? Grrr. :bad:

("We": I'm thinking of all the "vets" and "experts" who approved this, the people who would seriously put one in their place of business, etc. How do they even get the idea that this is an okay thing and no one will protest?? It's disturbing.)

[CalisticSunrise]

::Sigh:: I worry about the future of the world sometimes when i see things like that... i have a hard enough time getting my cats to stop being mad at me after a bath. and i hold them and pet them the whole time. my cats would try to kill me for sure if i did that to them.

[Shanti]

I havent found nothing on anybody doing anything to ban this.
I have a feeling till a pet is hurt and a law suit begins, then some org will act.

Meanwhile I haven't heard back from PETA, the US humane society nor the SPCA.

[Athena-Nadine]

Oh, my gods, is this really for real? It's not someone's idea of a sick joke? Just looking at that makes me sick to my stomach.

[Shanti]

Oh, my gods, is this really for real? It's not someone's idea of a sick joke? Just looking at that makes me sick to my stomach.Yup real and being sold all over the US!

[person of shadow]

Pathetic, period.

[Eleisawolf]

This article (http://www.wired.com/science/discoveries/news/2001/12/48952?currentPage=2) concludes with commentary by my former dog groomer in Boston... wish I still lived near her--I haven't found anyone near as good or conscientious in Denver...

*sigh*

Peace

[Sun Sprite]

This is so unreal, Has anyone checked SNOPES to see if it's real yet?

Lots of crazy stuff makes the rounds on the internet and was never real to begin with. Photoshop can do amazing things for people with too much time on their hands.

[Shanti]

The product is very real. No doubt.
The cat video is real. The owner of the Petspa company even has tried to get the video off the net because it may hurt his business. There are links in several post of the realness to this insanity.

[Willow Rosette]

Who on earth came up with that crap and wy would they think an animal would find that enjoyable??? My cats would not only flip over it they would kill me when it was done.

[Iris]

Oh, that poor cat looks SO distressed...!! Why would anyone put their beloved pet through something like that? That's just completely inhumane >:(

[Catiana]

This is so unreal, Has anyone checked SNOPES to see if it's real yet?

Lots of crazy stuff makes the rounds on the internet and was never real to begin with. Photoshop can do amazing things for people with too much time on their hands.


I Snoped it yesterday. They don't have anything on it. Its real

[Shanti]

Well here is PETA at there best...(sarcasm)
Thank you for your e-mail to PETA about animal "washing machines.”
Like you, we were horrified to learn about these cruel devices. We have received many complaints from the public about them, and the information has been passed on to the appropriate staffers here. Tips, information and ideas from concerned people like you are vital to our work.
If you know of any businesses that use this type of device, we strongly encourage you to register your objections. Companies expect to hear from offices like ours, but when they hear from consumers, it sends a strong message—that cruelty to animals is bad for business and won't be tolerated. You can help even more by writing letters to the editors of newspapers and magazines about this and other animal cruelty issues; for letter-writing tips, see http://www.PETA.org/actioncenter/letter-writing-guide.asp. Every published letter supporting animal rights not only places our cause on the public record, but helps to educate the public!
In other words, we really are not doing anything but you can complain to the makers and distributors which will promptly ignore you since profit matters and some nobody from nowhere doesn't matter for a squat.
Also write letters to the media where this device has already been laughed at even in the major streams so they can ignore you to.

Our major org that has made major issues out of non-issues and stupid things doesn't want to bother with something that truly is an issue! :)
Thank you, PETA...the most misguided org around!
*Save the cows* Peace. :spaceman:

[RoseKitten]

I got sick watching that video... the poor thing!

[aluokaloo]

who's idiotic idea was this? Damn! Poor animals! Furthermore what kind of idiotic pet owner would willingly do this to their animals? They should get popped for abuse too.

[Sacreligioushippie]

:noway:
I don't understand how animal rights groups aren't on top of this?! Not to mention the fact that I'm thoroughly disgusted that something like this is even out there. I couldn't even watch the whole video, the minute the water went on I stopped the video. Whoever invented this thing is sick and twisted and probably enjoys torturing animals.
Has anyone looked any further into a petition?

[Shanti]

:noway:
I don't understand how animal rights groups aren't on top of this?! Not to mention the fact that I'm thoroughly disgusted that something like this is even out there. I couldn't even watch the whole video, the minute the water went on I stopped the video. Whoever invented this thing is sick and twisted and probably enjoys torturing animals.
Has anyone looked any further into a petition?
I havent. I am so darn busy. The time I have had, I have been writing those wonderfully useless animal rights people. :atantrum:

[AuroraWillow]

Well here is PETA at there best...(sarcasm)
In other words, we really are not doing anything but you can complain to the makers and distributors which will promptly ignore you since profit matters and some nobody from nowhere doesn't matter for a squat.
Also write letters to the media where this device has already been laughed at even in the major streams so they can ignore you to.

Our major org that has made major issues out of non-issues and stupid things doesn't want to bother with something that truly is an issue! :)
Thank you, PETA...the most misguided org around!
*Save the cows* Peace. :spaceman:

Well, PeTa really isn't good for anything but stirring up a media frenzy. And, sad to say even then it rarely accomplishes anything. And, anybody can stir up attention.
Did you contact the ASPCA at all?

[Willow Rosette]

Shanti you are wonderful for everything you are doing I wouldnt have a clue where to begin. If I can help or call or something point me in the right dirrection.

[Shanti]

Well, PeTa really isn't good for anything but stirring up a media frenzy. And, sad to say even then it rarely accomplishes anything. And, anybody can stir up attention.
Did you contact the ASPCA at all?I e-mailed them along with the HSUS and haven't heard back from neither other than an automated, we received your e-mail letter. Being the weekend now, I know I wont hear anything. I'll see what Monday brings and send more e-mails if I don't hear something.

[Shanti]

Shanti you are wonderful for everything you are doing I wouldnt have a clue where to begin. If I can help or call or something point me in the right dirrection.Thanks. :)
Heck I have know clue either as to what to do. I just googled for the animal rights orgs and started e-mailing them. Maybe if these orgs get enough e-mails they'll think again about bringing this contraption into the public light.

[Agaliha]

I'm going to do a search to see if there's already a petition on that site I posted. If not, I'll see about making one...