Lil Bub’s Lil Show – WFHB

Lil BUB’s Lil Show, Episode 107: Dusty

Meet Dusty [https://bloomington.in.gov/animal-shelter/animals/84552] – a goofy, cuddly, and deeply loving orange cat. He’s 3 years old and a Domestic Short Hair. Dusty is a very healthy, playful, sweet boy who can get overwhelmed or anxious sometimes. He does best with structure, a calm environment, and someone who knows how to read and respect cat body language. He’s very affectionate, genuinely hilarious, and full of personality. Dusty is also litter box trained and very clean. He lives for treats of any flavor and enjoys catnip. He loves to chase bugs and toys, and will knock over anything you leave nearby like a little goblin when he wants attention. Dusty also likes cozy chin scratches. His favorite way to bond is through play, but once he’s all tuckered out, he’ll melt into you for hours of cuddles. Dusty is not just sweet – he’s sensitive. After his person had some major life changes he went from a five person two cat house to a one bedroom apartment for nearly a year, and spent a lot of time isolated and bored. Ever since, he struggles with unpredictable aggression, especially when startled or overstimulated. It doesn’t happen constantly, but it’s real, and it’s part of why we’re looking for a particular kind of home that understands what he’s been through, and what he still needs. To learn more about Dusty, please visit his listing [https://bloomington.in.gov/animal-shelter/animals/84552] on the Bloomington Animal Shelter’s website. — Lil BUB’s Lil Show is a co-production of WFHB and Lil BUB’s Big Fund Segment production by Christine Brackenhoff, Stacy Bridavsky, and Lena Swayze Audio support provided by Mike Bridavsky Theme music: “A Friend” by Lil BUB [https://wfhb.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/WFHB_call_sign_tag_cmyk-300x127.jpg] [https://wfhb.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/bub-circle-logo-1-RBG-1-300x300.jpg]

Lil BUB’s Lil Show, Episode 106: Beau + Keeping Pets Warm and Safe

Featured Animal: Beau Beau [https://bloomington.in.gov/animal-shelter/animals/84750] is a sweet Labrador Retriever Hound with a goofy streak and a deep love for plushies. He’s 3 years old with a gorgeous red-brown coat and the softest ears in the world. We don’t quite know his backstory, but he’s clearly been trained and shown plenty of love. His favorite activities include chasing a scent, playing fetch and staring lovingly into the eyes of every human he meets. He’s potty trained, listens well, and genuinely wants to please. He knows “sit”, “leave it”, and he always comes when he’s called. He trusts humans and listens to a firm “No”. While your shoes and socks might be tempting at first, he will quickly adapt to the rules of your house. Squirrels, rabbits, and anything that scampers? Beau’s instincts kick in fast. A secure yard and/or leash walks are a must. Beau is strong and sturdy, so he might accidentally knock over a small child or an unsuspecting adult during a zoomie session. His ideal home is a loving, dog and cat free household with people who appreciate plushie hoarding, goofy antics, and a tail that could probably write poetry if it had a pen. Beau is ready to be a loyal, gentle companion in his next era of life. Featured Topic: Keeping Pets Warm and Safe As the winter season approaches, it’s important to keep our pets warm. Cats and dogs should be kept indoors for the majority of the time because they can get hypothermia and frostbite. Make sure the home is pet-proof and they have plenty of stimulation. Dogs should take shorter walks, wear a dry sweater or coat, and dog boots if they will tolerate it. Be sure to wipe their paws, legs, and belly clean from snow and chemicals that they could have picked up on the sidewalk. If you have a pet you can’t bring inside, make sure they have a warm and dry place to sleep in. NeighborhoodCats.org [https://www.neighborhoodcats.org/winter-shelter] has a guide on making winter shelters at home. Some recommended materials are storage bins, styrofoam boxes, or cardboard in a pinch. For cats, the box must be on the smaller side so they can use their body heat to make it warmer. Insulate the sides with foam and the bottom with straw. Avoid using blankets because they draw out heat and will freeze when wet, and avoid hay because it can harbor bacteria or mold. Keep the shelter close to where they eat. Whether you have a cat that stays inside or a dog that loves walks, it’s vital to keep them warm and safe during the winter season. — Lil BUB’s Lil Show is a co-production of WFHB and Lil BUB’s Big Fund Segment production by Christine Brackenhoff, Stacy Bridavsky, and Lena Swayze Audio support provided by Mike Bridavsky Theme music: “A Friend” by Lil BUB [https://wfhb.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/WFHB_call_sign_tag_cmyk-300x127.jpg] [https://wfhb.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/bub-circle-logo-1-RBG-1-300x300.jpg]

Lil BUB’s Lil Show, Episode 105: Levon + Cat Body Language

Featured Animal: Levon Levon [https://bloomington.in.gov/animal-shelter/animals/81922] is a 6-year-old grey tabby cat currently available for adoption through the city of Bloomington Animal Shelter. He was brought in from the street and spent over 2 months curled up and hissing in the back of his cage. Since coming into foster care in January, Levon has blossomed into a sweet, playful, and loving companion. He still has so much potential to grow, but already, he’s showing his true colors. He’s lively without being destructive, and affectionate without being clingy. Every night, Levon quietly tucks himself into his favorite cozy spot and sleeps peacefully until morning. When you greet him to start the day, get ready — his favorite thing in the world is cuddles! He purrs so hard that he drools from happiness. Levon loves calm, gentle company, so he needs a quiet home without other pets or children. Loud noises and sudden movements scare him, but if you earn his trust he will choose to be by your side. Whether it’s sitting near you on the couch, lying at your feet while you work, or even joining you for a yoga session (he’s an aspiring yogi and absolutely loves the mat)! While he isn’t a lap cat just yet, he’s getting closer every day. He’s also very clean, eats well, both wet and dry food, and can’t resist a little treat. Shaking a treat bag is a great way to call him when you need him. He understands “no” and is respectful of the home. Levon may not have had the easiest start, but he is making up for lost time with every little step forward. In the right home — quiet, safe, and full of love — Levon will be the most loyal, joyful companion you could ever wish for. Featured Topic: Cat Body Language Many people love to show affection to cats, but might not always understand their body language. It’s usually easy to tell when cats are happy, with purring, slow blinking, head rubbing, and an upright tail being the main indicators. They might lean into your hands and meow for more pets. However, cats can easily get overstimulated with petting so it’s good to watch for the signs. When boundaries are pushed, they will let you know with hissing, lowered ears, swiping paws, or swishing tails. Before this you may also notice skin twitching, ruffled fur, and dilated pupils. While some of these signs can also indicate excitement and wanting to play, it’s important to use context clues and get to know the individual cat. Try to observe the little reactions they have to stimulation in the environment, like during play, meal times, sleeping, cuddling, and when they hear loud noises or are otherwise disturbed. Take notes if you want to, and maybe you can explain it to friends, family members, and children with the capacity to understand, how they can better connect with your cat. It’s important to teach children that all animals have boundaries just like they do, and must use their body language to communicate. Having an understanding of animal body language is a great foundation for creating strong bonds. — Lil BUB’s Lil Show is a co-production of WFHB and Lil BUB’s Big Fund Segment production by Christine Brackenhoff, Stacy Bridavsky, and Lena Swayze Audio support provided by Mike Bridavsky Theme music: “A Friend” by Lil BUB [https://wfhb.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/WFHB_call_sign_tag_cmyk-300x127.jpg] [https://wfhb.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/bub-circle-logo-1-RBG-1-300x300.jpg]

Lil BUB’s Lil Show, Episode 104: Babes

Babes [https://bloomington.in.gov/animal-shelter/animals/83503] is a cat with gray and white fur, and he’s a little over 3 years in age. He loves being petted and will reward you with many tiny meows and purrs as he sleeps alongside you. He has spent at least part of his life as a stray, but he’s ready to leave those days behind him! He is eager to meet his future family and claim a spot for himself on the couch. In foster, he has been known to be a great companion and even take a ride on a walker! Babes is FIV+, so it is recommended that he live in a home with only other FIV+ cats, or a home where he can be the only cat. To learn more about Babes, including adoption details, please reach out to the City of Bloomington Animal Shelter at 812-349-3492. — Lil BUB’s Lil Show is a co-production of WFHB and Lil BUB’s Big Fund Segment production by Christine Brackenhoff and Stacy Bridavsky Audio support provided by Mike Bridavsky Theme music: “A Friend” by Lil BUB [https://wfhb.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/WFHB_call_sign_tag_cmyk.jpg][https://wfhb.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/bub-circle-logo-1-RBG-1.jpg]

Lil BUB’s Lil Show, Episode 103: Erik

Are you and your dog looking for a new best friend? Then the City of Bloomington Animal Shelter may introduce you to Erik [https://bloomington.in.gov/animal-shelter/animals/83425] – a real dog’s dog and a good buddy to his humans, too. This 40-pound guy might have a mysterious charm when you first meet, but give him a minute or two and he’ll be your loyal best friend for life. Erik strikes the balance between chill companion and active adventure buddy. It cannot be stressed enough that Erik adores other dogs and would love to find a forever home with a four-legged buddy that wants to play tug and wrestle. And if your dog is not into playing, Erik would be OK with that, too. He is used to playing it cool with his grumpy foster sister-dog and is just happy to be in her company. Erik is already house-trained and crate-trained, so he’ll fit seamlessly into any living situation. He’s got his routines down pat: sleeps soundly in his crate at night, then heads straight outside first thing in the morning like the responsible guy he is. Erik is highly trainable, takes treats politely, and takes gentle corrections like a champ. He’s got that playful side too – loves playing in the hose and showing off his natural athleticism. He absolutely loves walks, hikes, and runs – perfect for anyone wanting a workout buddy or study break companion. Plus, he’s a total foodie who will never judge your snack choices. Erik is great for active individuals or families with older kids. Erik’s ready to leave his mysterious past behind for a bright future filled with adventures, unconditional love, and all the belly rubs a good boy deserves. To learn more about Erik, including adoption details, you may reach out to the City of Bloomington Animal Shelter at 812-349-3492. — Lil BUB’s Lil Show is a co-production of WFHB and Lil BUB’s Big Fund Segment production by Christine Brackenhoff and Stacy Bridavsky Audio support provided by Mike Bridavsky Theme music: “A Friend” by Lil BUB [https://wfhb.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/WFHB_call_sign_tag_cmyk.jpg][https://wfhb.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/bub-circle-logo-1-RBG-1.jpg]