novadog
Summer 2015
T H E U LT I M AT E G U I D E T O C A N I N E - I N S P I R E D L I V I N G I N T H E D C M E T R O A R E A
magazine
Moment of
glory
The sport of Dock Diving is fueled by a love of dogs and the thrill of competition
Also Inside: Passing the Canine Good Citizen Test The Scoop on Supplements
Digital Edition Sponsored by: Becky’s Pet Care Inc.
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Summer Hike: Red Rock Wilderness
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contents Summer 2015
N O R T H E R N V I R G I N I A D O G : T H E U LT I M AT E G U I D E T O C A N I N E - I N S P I R E D L I V I N G I N T H E D C M E T R O A R E A
COVER STORY
12 M oment of Glory
The sport of Dock Diving is fueled by a love of dogs and the thrill of competition By Taylor McLean
18 P assing the Test
Canine Good Citizen Certification is the Gold Standard for Dog Behavior By Kenneth Pilcher
12 D E PA RT M E N T S
3 PUBLISHER’S NOTE
24 CANINE CALENDAR
4 THE SOURCE
25 MARKETPLACE
News, information, and products
6 HEALTH WISE
On the cover:
Making a Splash—Local dogs take their love of water to a new height. Gary Foote and his champion dock diving dog named Zoe.
26 THE SCENE
The Scoop on Pet Insurance
A glimpse into the lives of Northern Virginia dogs
8 DESTINATIONS
27 HIT THE TRAIL
Dog-friendly To-do list for summer
10 COMMUNITY
Hiking With Your Dog
28 WAGS TO RICHES
Adoption success stories
18
23 GET SOCIAL
WITH NOVADOG
Cover photo and above by The Proof Booth from Photos By Feist: www.photosbyfeist.com.
Read Tobys’ adoption success story on page 28. www.novadogmagazine.com
1
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novadog T H E U LT I M AT E G U I D E T O C A N I N E - I N S P I R E D L I V I N G I N T H E D C M E T R O A R E A
magazine
PUBLISHER Angela Hazuda Meyers | ahazuda@yahoo.com MANAGING EDITOR Kristin Fisher | kristin@novadogmagzine.com
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CREATIVE DIRECTOR Janelle Welch | janelle@2houndsproductions.com CONTRIBUTORS Carol Brooks, Elissa Matulis Myers, Dr. Charles Eastin, Taylor McLean, Kenneth Pilcher, Dr. Jennifer Boyle ADVERTISING For rates and information, please contact: Lisa Trinkle: (p) 703-780-4400 (f) 856-753-0064 advertising@novadogmagazine.com DISTRIBUTION MediaPoint 9022-A Telegraph Road Lorton, VA 22079 info@mediapointusa.com
We’re Environmentally Friendly. The pages of NOVADog are printed on recycled paper with vegetable-based inks. Please help us make a difference by recycling your copy or pass this issue along to a fellow dog lover. NOVADog Magazine is committed to creating and fostering an active and supportive community for local dogs and their owners to share, learn, interact, and engage. Our mission is three-fold: • Educate—Provide training and canine health-care tips to help dogs live long and fulfilling lives. • Inspire—Publish insightful stories about local heroes and organizations that are doing good in our community. • Collaborate—Help local animal welfare organizations to save and enrich the lives of homeless and abused animals. Northern Virginia Dog Magazine © 2015 is published quarterly by 343 Media, LLC. Limited complimentary copies are distributed throughout the DC Metro area and are available in select locations. One- and two-year subscriptions are available. Visit www.novadogmagazine.com/subscribe for more information. Send change of address information to P.O. Box 239, Mount Vernon, VA 22121, 703-887-8387.
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NOVADog Magazine neither endorses or opposes any charity, welfare organization, product, or service, dog-related or otherwise. As an independent publisher and media organization, we report on news and events happening in our local area. Events are used as an outlet to reach new readers interested in all aspects of dog ownership. We encourage all readers to make their own decisions as to which products and services to use, organizations to support, and events to attend.
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2 Northern Virginia Dog
| Summer 2015
Winner: 2009, 2010, 2011, and 2013 Award of Distinction
Photos by Deb Cobb Photography (www.debcobb.com)
PUBLISHER’S NOTE
W
arm weather is here and I am happy! It’s so nice to not have to bundle under five layers on my morning walk with Maggie. Maggie might not be quite as thrilled since she has nice long layers of cozy fur but since I’m not frozen solid we get out more so I think that makes her happy! I am looking forward to embarking on all of the summer traditions I have grown to love in the DC and surrounding area—bring on the hikes, wineries, outdoor movies, and concerts! You’ll find a list that will keep you busy all summer long in the Destinations column of this issue. I hope you have as much fun exploring some of them as Maggie and I do—we have already snuck in a visit to The Winery at La Grange already this season and enjoyed a few fun hikes! Be sure to let us know your favorite spots on Facebook, Twitter, or email. We want to add more fun spots to our list too! The #GlowDogGlow race, held on May 23, was a shinning success. We hosted 500 people and over 300 dogs! We are thankful for all of the participants and sponsors of the event. The huge glow stations provided fun and engaging eye candy along the race course for every human and pup. The after party was fun and the DJ provided energetic tunes through the evening. We are securing the location for the Fall 5K date.
connect with us facebook.com/novadog twitter.com/novadogmag
Follow our website, social media, or emails for updates. Come and get your glow on! Please also join us for baking class… The details will be posted on Facebook and our website. Dates and location will be announced soon. We’ll be using yummy seasonal and locally sourced ingredients to create some tasty treats! I hope to see you there. Have a sunny summer!
flickr.com/photos/novadog novadogmagazine.com/blog
Visit us on the Web at www.novadogmagazine.com or scan the QR code above.
Angela Hazuda Meyers ahazuda@yahoo.com
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3
THE SOURCE
Ne ws , i n fo rm a ti on, and pr oduct s
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You and your cat, dog or rabbit are needed to join other Fairfax Pets on Wheels, Inc. volunteers who make a difference in the community by visiting residents of nursing homes and assisted living facilities.
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| Summer 2015
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5
H E A L T H W I S E
Ad v i ce an d i n fo rm ati o n o n c a n i n e h e a l th i s s u e s
Managing Pet Care Costs By Dr. C h a r les E a st in
W
e all love our pets! Today cats and dogs are members of our families and we want the best of everything for them. Yet how do we manage the costs of having a pet, particularly health care cost? As a practicing veterinarian in a busy small animal veterinary practice, I frequently hear the question, “Dr. Eastin, should I get health insurance for my pet?” The question they are really asking is, “How can I keep my pet healthy for as long as possible?” Let’s face it, nobody likes to make a budget or think about insurance, but it is critical to thoughtfully consider all available options to pay for your pet’s care. Research advances and advances in technology have translated into practical solutions for pet health problems, but these diagnostics and treatments can be expensive. Here are a few tips that I give my clients to help ensure their pets receive the best care without “breaking the bank.”
Consider costs early Consider the costs of pet ownership as early in your pet’s life as possible, ideally before you adopt your pet. This process doesn’t need to be unpleasant. • Routine medical care. Being able to pay for routine care is critical for pet ownership. Think about a creating a specific savings account that you contribute to monthly. Some plans offer a wellness component, but you’re generally better off paying for these out of pocket and saving the “administration fee.” • Unexpected injury or illness - Unexpected injury or illness and the associated medical bills commonly results in emotional and financial distress. When you are already worried about your pet, the cost of care is the last thing on your mind. The goal should be to remove or minimize the financial component from the decision to accept the care that your pet needs.
Insurance is an excellent way to prepare for the, almost inevitable, but unanticipated, injury, or illness. Then, your decision becomes more about what is best for your pet, not whether you can afford it. Even if you decline hospitalization or surgery, eliminating ability to pay from the decision pays emotional dividends for the rest of your life. Policy prices can be as low as $25 per month, but every company and policy is different, so you really need to spend time reading and understanding your options. I recommend talking to the representatives of at least three insurance companies. Just like any insurance, the average pet owner will pay a little more into the system than they receive in reimbursements. You pay a set monthly fee and in return have the right to receive partial reimbursement of the amounts paid for veterinary services and products. Remember that with pet healthcare insurance, you generally will pay your veterinarian for
Eat right. Exercise. Spend time with those you love.
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6 Northern Virginia Dog
| Summer 2015
services and then the insurance company will reimburse you. If you, for whatever reason, do not have insurance on your pet’s health when an expensive medical problem occurs, then there is still hope. You can still minimize the one-time draw on your bank account through lending programs like CareCredit, which has no interest plans for new applicants.
Tips to keep your pet healthy: • Safety and quality - Take good care of your pet’s health on a day-to-day basis. Think about safety in and around your home and feed highquality food. • Regular checkups - Remember, the best way to insure you aren’t confronted with an illness is to have your pet examined regularly by your veterinarian. Problems can be detected and treated early, before they progress to the point of needing expensive hospitalization or surgery. As mentioned above, a specific health savings account is good for this routine care. • Take care of the teeth at home - Some of my clients take excellent care of their pet’s teeth by using dental treats, water additive, and, sometimes, tooth brushing. These won’t prevent dental tartar, but can prolong the interval between professional dental cleanings. Also, budget for the occasional professional teeth cleaning to avoid possible secondary illnesses and costly extractions. ND Dr. Charles Eastin is the Veterinarian-in-Charge at the Dulles Executive Pet Center and Sterling Park Animal Hospital, where his 5-year old Siberian Husky, Ecko, is also the company mascot. He sees his role as fostering a community of like-minded individuals who see pets as an essential component of a fulfilled life!
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7
DESTINATIONS
D o g f r ie n d ly s p a c e s in N or t her n Vi r gi ni a and beyond
Paw-Friendly, Really?
Our List of Summer Destinations You Won’t Want to Miss Here in the DC Metro, we all know how much we love our dogs, but yet we still often run into locations we are unable to take our beloved companions. So we set out to overturn every rock and discover all of the really cool and maybe unexpected, places we can take our dogs. So here is your #1 Ultimate Planning Guide for year-round fun with places that love dogs as much as we do! Did you know all these places Must Love Dogs too!?
Garden Party: Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens: Enjoy this quiet and serene place to roam and enjoy the sights and sounds of nature. www.nps.gov/keaq/index.htm Mount Vernon: Roam free throughout the property, except for in the mansion. www.mountvernon.org/ United States National Arboretum: This DC living museum of trees, shrubs, and plants allows leashed pets. www.usna.usda.gov/Information/faq.html Congressional Cemetery: One of the most unique places in the city, this cemetery is also an off-leash dog park. Membership Required. www.cemeterydogs.org
Chow Down: Hotel Monaco: Located in Alexandria, VA, Doggy Happy Hour happens on Tuesdays at 5:00 PM April-October www.monaco-alexandria.com/alexandria-hotel/doggy-happy-hour.html
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Jackson 20: Complimentary doggy treats and fresh water for the pups. www.jackson20.com/ Art & Soul: Pup food is served right alongside people fare. www.artandsouldc.com/menus/pooch-patio-menu Cantina Marina: Enjoy a waterside meal with Fido at your feet. www.cantinamarina.com/ Clare & Don’s Beach Shack: Pretend you are in the islands at this adorable restaurant in Falls Church. Dogs welcome except Friday and Saturday. www.clareanddons.com
Retail Therapy: Not only do the local pet stores open their doors to our furry friends, but so do a growing number of retail locations and home improvement stores such as: Anthropologie, Chico’s, Nordstrom, LUSH Cosmetics, Home Rule, Crate & Barrel, Orvis, Gap, Old Navy, Banana Republic, Bloomingdale’s, Urban Outfitters, Michael’s, Marshalls, Bed, Bath and Beyond, Lowe’s, and Home Depot. Be sure to call your local store, as policies may vary from location.
Arlington-Shirlington’s Premier Boarding Facility
Come in for a tour!
The Arts:
HOURS
Torpedo Factory Art Center: One of the most interesting places to enjoy the arts and purchase some too. Based in an old Torpedo factory right on the water in Old Town Alexandria, this revived arts center deserves a place on your summer calendar. www.torpedofactory.org
Mon- Fri: 7 am - 7:30 pm Sat/Sun 9 am - 7 pm
Wine a Little: Enjoy a relaxing afternoon at many of Virginia’s wineries which welcome our furry and fabulous four-legged companions. There are over 46 dog-friendly wineries in Northern Virginia alone. Here are some of our favorites: 8 Chains North: Complete with a dog play yard, dogs are not only allowed, but welcomed! www.8ChainsNorth.com Barrel Oak Winery (BOW): Owners Brian and Sharon and their pack of adorable pooches welcome friends to their amazing winery. Each day offers a new array of events, fun, music, and gorgeous views. www.barreloak.com. Paradise Springs: Although this is the closest winery to DC in Clifton, this winery boasts plenty of room to roam and enjoy the countryside. Plenty of outdoor picnic tables and outdoor tasting bars make this a perfect setting for your four legged friend. www.paradisespringswinery.com Winery at La Grange: A great spot to spread out, take some yard games, and hang for the day. There is a lovely wooded area that gives pups plenty of shade even on hot days. www.wineryatlagrange.com
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Spot Can Sport:
Now seeing Sunday appointments!
Baseball: America’s Favorite Pastime with man’s best friend – nothing is finer! Nationals Park (September 3 & September 26) & Potomac Nationals (September 6). http://washington.nationals.mlb.com and http://www.milb.com/index.js Boating in DC: Paddleboard with your dog, complete with doggie life vests! Call to verify. Three different locations to choose: National Harbor, Georgetown, and Yards Park. www.BoatingInDc.com
Outdoor Movies and Concerts: National Harbor Movies: On the Potomac, Sundays, 6:00 PM Screen on the Green: Mondays in July & August at sunset. www.hbo.com/screenonthegreen/ Fairfax County Entertainment Series: All across NOVA, details at www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/performances A REEL Drive-In: Check out this awesome Drive-In movie theatre in Winchester, VA. It’s authentic, homey, and makes you feel like it’s really 1960 all over again. This favorite location has two screens playing simultaneously and each night has a double feature on each screen. They have snacks and a playground too. www.thefamilydriveintheatre.com Outdoor Movies: Find a pet-friendly outdoor movie almost any night of the week: www.dcoutdoorfilms.com/
Cruise with your Canine: Potomac Riverboat Company: Saturdays, August 8, September 12 at 11:00 AM. www.potomacriverboatco.com/ Canine Cruise at Lake Accontink Park: Springfield, July 26 at 7:00 PM; August 23 &September 27 at 6:00 PM www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/lake-accotink/events.htm
Customized, compassionate care with exceptional medicine 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. VCA Alexandria Animal Hospital 2660 Duke Street Alexandria, VA 22314 www.vcaalexandria.com Main Line 703-751-2022 Emergency Line 703-823-3601
www.novadogmagazine.com
9
COMMUNITY
E v e n ts w e’ v e s ni ffed ou t
#GlowDogGlow #LightItUp #DogsRule #JoinUsNextTime
A Glowing Good Time! The #GlowDogGlow race, held on May 23, was a shinning success. We hosted 500 people and over 300 dogs! Thank you to all the participants and sponsors. The huge glow stations provided fun and engaging eye candy along the race course for every human and pup. The after party was fun and the DJ provided energetic tunes through the evening. We are securing the location for the Fall 5K date. Follow our website, social media, or emails for updates. Photos by Deb Cobb Photography (www.debcobb.com).
Magazine
DOG 5K
Come and get your glow on! Follow us on Facebook and Twitter for the Fall 5K Glow Race date and location!
10 Northern Virginia Dog
| Summer 2015
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11
COVER STORY Gary Foote with Zoe.
Kristen Cooper’s dog Chief
Moment of glory
Photo By The Proof Booth from Photos By Feist
The sport of Dock Diving is fueled by a love of dogs and the thrill of competition
Photo Courtesy of Kristen Cooper
I
t’s a sunny Saturday afternoon at the Celebrate Fairfax Festival and a crowd has gathered around a large dock that is covered in artificial turf and connects to a pool stretching out forty feet from its end. Children line up as close to the edge of the pool as possible, eagerly awaiting the splash By Taylor McLean zone that will soon be created as canine athletes sprint down the dock and leap into the water. Behind the spectators, four-legged competitors and their two-legged teammates await their moment of glory under the shade of team tents adorned with sponsor logos, professional action photos, and awards from past events. The excitement and camaraderie is palpable. This is a DockDogs competition - where the people are family, the dogs are celebrities, and everyone is passionate about the sport.
12 Northern Virginia Dog
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A Family Affair Under one of these tents sit Alexandria residents and dock diving fanatics Gary Foote and Jenn Hrebik, a husband and wife team who got into the sport to keep their black Labrador Retriever, Jack, happy and healthy after moving away from the water he grew up swimming in. “Jack would spend entire days on the swim platform of our boat, dropping his ball in the water, waiting for it to float away, and then jumping in after it,” says Gary. When the couple moved from Baltimore to Virginia and had to put their boat in storage, they were determined to find a way to keep their water-loving pup doing what makes himAS happy. They soon found a local club called Chesapeake DockDogs (CDD), where Jack learned to add distance and height to his leaps that have earned him and Jenn titles, trophies, cash prizes, and the prestige at being among the best in the world at their sport. Now Jack shares his passion with a fourth family member, Zoe, a beautiful two-year-old silver Labrador Retriever that is quickly living up to the name on her registration papers: “Little Bit of Superfly.” After spending her early months hanging out with Jack at the pool, Zoe has
wowed her family and her fans with extreme jumps that make it look like she’s got springs in her legs and have sent her shooting up in the dock diving rankings.
The Fastest Growing Canine Sport in America The sport of dock diving entered the spotlight in 1997 as part of Purina’s Incredible Dog Challenge program, and skyrocketed in popularity when ESPN aired it during their Great Outdoor Games in 2000. DockDogs is the governing body for the sport. It establishes rules and regulations, tracks results, and supINDIVIDUAL AS YOUR PETthe ports a network of affiliated clubs across nation as well as in Canada, Australia, and the UK. The DockDogs organization also sanctions over 200 regional and national events annually that draw millions of spectators and culminate in the DockDogs World Championships, where dog and handler teams compete in four disciplines: Big Air; Extreme Vertical; Speed Retrieve; and Iron Dog.
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a floating toy using either a “place and send” or a “chase” technique. Using place and send, a handler walks the dog to the end of the dock and throws a floating toy into the water before returning to a starting position and releasing the dog to retrieve the toy. When using the chase technique, the dog waits at the top of the dock while the handler walks to the end, calls the dog and throws the toy in the water, thus allowing the dog to “chase” the toy into the water. Either way is allowable, provided a dog is never forced into the water and the jump is completed within the sixty second time limit. In Big Air, teams compete in waves during which each dog is given the opportunity to complete two jumps. The longer of the jumps, measured from the end of the dock to where the base of the dog’s tail enters the water, is the one that is scored. Top scorers in each wave make the cut to compete in finals.
Extreme Vertical. Extreme Vertical is the high jump of the sport, in which the dog leaps out and up to grab or knock down a bumper hanging in the air, eight feet away and at least five feet above the dock. The handler chooses a starting height and the bumper is raised
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14 Northern Virginia Dog
| Summer 2015
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in two-inch increments until there are two misses. The highest successful grab is the dog’s score for the event.
Speed Retrieve. Speed Retrieve is a sprint. Dogs are timed from their release at the 20 foot mark on the dock until they have successfully grabbed a bumper hung at the end of the pool just above the surface of the water. The fastest dogs in the world compete in the “Sonic” division and can complete the task in as little as five seconds. The Iron Dog competition is scored based on points earned from Big Air, Extreme Vertical, and Speed Retrieve to reward overall top performers in all three events.
Getting Started
Does your dog have what it takes? To excel at the sport of dock diving, dogs really only need two things: 1. A high toy drive; and 2. A love of water. Since only nonedible floating toys are allowed, your dog needs to have a toy he or she wants badly enough to take a flying leap off of a dock to get. If you’ve got those ingredients, your first stop should be dockdogs.com, where you can find a list of local clubs and events. Stop by an event or practice session and talk to the handlers there about the best way to get your feet wet. The key to a successful start is slowly building a dog’s confidence in the water. While some dogs take to it right away, others need some practice to feel comfortable. The Chesapeake DockDogs club holds regular practice sessions where, for a $10 fee, newbies can take be walked through the paces by a seasoned pro. Club members love to share their experiences and knowledge about the sport, and will get as excited as you do when your dog takes its first successful jump. When you’re finally ready to take the plunge, signing up as a local club member as well as a WorldWide DockDogs member gives you access to a huge support network, free practices, priority registration for events, and the ability to be titled and win awards at DockDogs events nationwide. Regional Clubs:
One Size Fits All Despite the competitive atmosphere it engenders, dock diving is actually a very accessible sport that just about anyone can enjoy. Any person can show up at a local event to register their dog and compete, providing the handler is at least seven years old and the dog is over six months of age. “I’ve seen everything from Yorkshire Terriers to Great Danes out there,”
•C hesapeake DockDogs Maryland/Northern Virginia www.chesapeakedockdogs.com
• Keystone DockDogs Pennsylvania www.keystonedockdogs.com
•T idewater DockDogs Virginia Beach www.tidewaterdockdogs.com
• Delmarva DockDogs Delaware www.delmarvadockdogs.com
Are We na n EVER Goo... Get T
BARKTOBERFEST! Saturday, September 26, 2015
The Fest: 10am-5pm The Strut: 9:15-10:15am
at the Loudoun County Fairgrounds! FRIENDLY PETS WELCOME!
Live Music • Mutt Strut • Pet Contests & Prizes • Games for Dogs • Games for Kids • Kitty Corner • Animal Communicator, Diane Roadcap • Canine Demonstrations • Vendors • Artisans • Auction • Raffle Baskets • Food Trucks • Pouring for Paws • FOHA Pets for Adoption • And MUCH MORE! Benefiting
Presenting Sponsor
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at www.barktoberfest.org www.novadogmagazine.com
15
says Kristen Cooper, a member of the Tidewater DockDogs affiliate club based in Virginia Beach. This is Kristen’s third season competing with her four year-old Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever, “Chief,” who just recently earned his “Master” title for completing five Big Air jumps in the 20’ to 22’ 11” range at a national event. Each DockDog discipline is split into divisions so that dogs compete against others who are jumping at their level. Once you’ve moved up to a higher division, you can no longer go back and compete at the lower levels. There are also special classes for youth handlers, senior dogs, and lap dogs. This format evens the playing field and ensures that everyone has a shot at earning awards for jumping their personal best. “That’s one of the things that makes it so addicting,” says Kristen; “you always have something to work toward.” The Celebrate Fairfax event was a good one for Kristen and Chief, who went out on his first try and made a 21-foot leap from the dock look easy, qualifying them for the Semi-Pro Finals where they grabbed a third place finish. At competitions, every dog gets a ribbon for completing a jump, no matter how far or how high. Whether your dog jumps five feet or twenty-five feet, the common theme throughout all practices and events is one
16 Northern Virginia Dog
| Summer 2015
of teamwork and fun. “The dogs really love it,” Kristen says; “it’s great exercise and a good way to relieve energy.” Kristen says she and Chief were hooked from the very first practice session they attended, and have since become part of a large and supportive community of dog lovers. In fact, “hooked” is a word many members of the community use to describe their passion for the sport, fueled by a love of dogs and the thrill of competition.
Little Bit of Superfly “For me, it’s about the incredible bond you create with your dog,” says Gary. “You become a team and you each depend on each other to do your part…when you’re competing it feels like it’s just the two of you and nobody else.” As Gary and Zoe ascend the dock for their first attempt in Big Air at Celebrate Fairfax, a team is exactly what they look like. Both are focused on each other as Gary sets Zoe up in a place and stay at the head of the dock. Zoe is all muscle and energy that she can barely contain as she crouches down, locking her eyes on the bumper in Gary’s hand, and the water ahead of her. Gary walks to the end of the dock and signals Zoe, who launches like a rocket toward him, following the toy he sends out over the water and splashing down 23 feet later to cheers from the crowd. Moments later, she is
climbing back up the ramp by the side of the dock with the bumper in her jaws and a joyful expression on her face. While dogs like Zoe, Jack and Chief make it look like puppy play, a lot more goes into a successful jump than meets the eye. “As a handler your job is to control the set up,” explains Foote. “I have to wind Zoe up and get her ready to go, and my throw has to be just right in order for her to get the distance she needs.” The pair has been working hard on their technique and it has been paying off. Zoe is now sitting at 39th overall in the world DockDog standings with a 23’2.8” average in the Big Air event, and in a five-way tie at 9th for Extreme Vertical with an average jump height of 7’4”. Like many DockDog competitors, Gary has his sights set on earning an invitation to the World Championships in Dubuque, Iowa this November. He hopes that both Zoe and Jack have a chance to show what they’re made of in the Iron Dog competition against the best of the best. At the end of the day, though, the only thing that really matters is having fun and showing off his pride and joy. “When we go out there to compete, it’s the Zoe show,” Gary says with a smile. Taylor McLean is a freelance writer and dog lover based in Alexandria, VA. She can be reached at taylormham@gmail.com.
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 17 12 noon – 4 p.m. FREE Pet & Family Friendly Activities: Pet Parade & Contests Pet Oriented Exhibitors Pet Rescues Fashion Show Children’s Entertainment Prizes & Store Discounts
www.SPTCPetoberfest.com
passing the test Canine Good Citizen Certification is the Gold Standard for Dog Behavior By Kenneth Pilcher
18 Northern Virginia Dog
| Summer 2015
T
he benefits of achieving the Canine Good Citizen (CGC) Certification for your dog are numerous. The process will establish a strong bond between you and your best friend. As the owner, you will feel more confident that your dog can handle any situation without becoming upset or stressed. You and your dog will be happier because he is well adjusted and more confident.
Classes now in
North Arlington The AKC established the CGC program in 1989 to promote responsible dog ownership and to encourage the training of well-mannered dogs. The CGC test evaluates you and your dog’s skills at navigating possible scenarios that would come up in your every day life, such as moving through a crowd, meeting a new dog or person, and being separated for a short amount of time. Any breed of dog may take the test. The only physical requirements are that the dog must be healthy and well-groomed to take the CGC test. Since its inception, the CGC has become the model for other programs around the world, and is a great starting point to move onto other forms of training such as Agility and Competitive Obedience. Some insurance companies recommend the CGC training and there is an increase in number of apartments and condos that are requiring CGC certification for resident dogs. Police Departments and courts recognize the CGC certificate as evidence of responsible ownership. The CGC test is now recognized as an American Kennel Club (AKC) title and after passing the test your family friend will be eligible for a special tag which displays the title as part of his/her name.
Defining the Test The test is not as strict as formal obedience – the test allows the owner to give two or more commands if needed. You are actually encouraged to talk and praise your dog. Even with the relaxed format there are still limitations such as no food incentives. The test is to determine whether your dog has learned the necessary skills and if the owner can handle the dog without bribing. The dog is also not allowed to wear any special equipment such as electric collars or pinch collars. Your dog needs to listen to you, not your training aids. In fact, a harsh correction during the test is grounds for immediate disqualification. The Canine Good Citizen Test consists of an Evaluator requesting an owner to have their dog accomplish ten tasks. 1. Allowing a friendly stranger to approach 2. S itting calmly and politely to be pet 3. Allowing handling for grooming and physical examination
4. H eeling politely on a loose lead 5. Walking calmly through crowded areas 6. S it on command and down on command 7. C ome when called 8. G reeting another well-behaved dog without aggression or excitement 9. H andling distractions and distracting environments 10. B ehaving well when in the care of another and with the owner out of sight.
Preparing Your Dog Attending a CGC prep class once a week will not guarantee success. Homework is crucial for both of you to build on to achieve your goals and pass the test. The first and easiest tip for success we can offer is, take time to work with your dog. It is an old adage among trainers, “If you only put in five minutes of training, you will only get five minutes of good behavior.” It’s the same regardless of what skill you are trying to learn; the more you practice the better you will be. It is also important to train in varied environments. The CGC test is unlikely to be given in your home so be sure to take time to practice in new public places. The more environments your dog expects you to request good behavior, the better he will be on test day.
Choosing the Right Reward Getting your dog to focus on you around distractions is the key to many of the items on the test. Working around distractions can be very daunting to most owners, but can be conquered by knowing your dog. The best way to beat distractions is to know what motivates your dog. It’s not always as obvious or the same thing for every distraction. If your treat doesn’t seem to be working, amp it up a little with a higher value treat. Perhaps treats aren’t your dog’s thing. They may prefer a squeaky toy or a good game of tug as their reward. If you seem stumped on what they are into, try anything and everything. Finding the right reward is only the beginning. Since you will not be able to use those rewards during the test, you will need to praise your dog a great deal—all the
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■ Puppy and Dog Manners Class—in Fairfax and Arlington ■ Nose Knows—teach your dog how to use his nose to hunt ■ Treibball—play this fun game while learning off-leash control and focus We offer private training for dogs of all ages and needs. Register at www.kissablecanine.com.
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time, every time they are doing something right so keep rewarding and don’t stop. They will associate their favorite reward with your praise and before long you will be their best reward! Constant training is so important. Make it a part of your everyday routine and make it a game. Similar to environment, Hera Training with Jeff. make sure you are practicing with various situations. Another important component is supervised separation for three minutes. You can start with practicing “wait” or “stay,” and then increase distance and duration. If you have practiced with distractions, the evaluator will just be one more distraction to overlook while waiting until you return. Have others assist by having your dog practice waiting with new people. As long as he is not barking, whining, panting, pacing, or pulling, praise him for doing well. Reinforcing the behavior desired will increase his performance. Lastly, confidence will take you and your dog a long way on the test. If you are confident that your dog will perform the way you expect, he will. If your dog has a lot of confidence, he will not be stressed by strangers, crowds, or being brushed by the evaluator. An often unexpected way to build confidence is other forms of training such as agility. Anything that increases your interactions in a positive manner and strengthens your bond will improve confidence for both of you. Taking a Canine Good Citizen class is a good start for multiple reasons. The instructor is sometimes your evaluator so there will be less surprise when the test comes around. You will receive firsthand knowledge of how to practice and what will be expected of you and your dog. The class setting will offer an additional opportunity to work on improving your dog’s focus around distractions while being able to receive feedback from the instructor. At Olde Towne Pet Resort, we will be offering Canine Good Citizen preparation classes this summer. Our trainer is a certified CGC evaluator and will be able to teach you the skills you need to pass the test and more importantly have a wellmannered friend. Kenneth Pilcher is the Operations Director of the Olde Towne Pet ResortDulles. He is actively involved in the training program and can be seen with his dog, Tyrion, a Corgi. For additional information call 703-4559000.
20 Northern Virginia Dog
| Summer 2015
Find a Canine Good Citizen
Find a Canine Good Citizen TESTING SITE:
•O lde Towne Pet Resort—group lessons available
•O lde Towne Pet Resort—Offered at the end of training classes. For additional information visit www.oldetownepetresort.com or call 703-455-9000.
•O ff-Leash K9 Training—private lessons available
•O ff-Leash K9 Training—Ongoing training and testing available. Contact them for details at info@offleashk9training.com or www.offleashk9training.com.
•A lways There Pet Care—private and group lessons available
•A lways There Pet Care —Classes offered include certification opportunities. Individuals who have completed training elsewhere can still be evaluated for AKC Canine Good Citizen certification. For more information email atpc01@aol.com or visit www.alwaystherepetcare.com/obedience-training. html.
PREP CLASS
• T he Animals’ House—group lessons available. Classes provided every 7 to 8 weeks. Next class starts August 4. • Fur-Get-Me-Not—group lessons available. Fur-Get-Me-Not’s Level 4 classes will prepare pups for the AKC Canine Good Citizenship evaluation. •K issAble Canine—private and group lessons available in September
• T he Animals’ House—Certification testing provided during the last week of training classes. Assessment opportunities outside the regular testing dates require an appointment. For more information email mail@theanimalshouse.com or visit www.theanimalshouse.com. • Fur-Get-Me-Not—Test dates available this October. For more information email trainer@furgetmenot.com or visit www.furgetmenot.com/scripts/dogTrainingSchedule.asp •K issAble Canine—Testing opportunities are offered at the end of the class. Private testing is available for those that need the certification for certain programs, access to hospitals or insurance needs. visit https://kissablecanine.dogbizpro.com/public/registration/index. aspx?tab=classes&schedule=132 for more information.
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21
EXPERT ADVICE
An s w e rs to y ou r be h a v i o r a n d tra i n i n g q u e s ti o n s
Should You Supplement? Breaking Down the Pros and Cons of Pet Vitamins and Supplements. By Dr. J en n if er B oy le
Urinary and Gastrointestinal Health. I always see bottles of supplements on the shelves of my neighborQUESTION hood pet store. And my neighbor gives her dog a daily dose of Fish Oil. I already feed my dog a high-quality dog food, is that enough?
We all want to provide the ANSWER best care for our furry family members and a common question is whether supplements may help to improve a pet’s health or treat a disease. For humans, a balanced diet of healthy whole foods is considered the best way to meet our nutritional needs. Supplements are not intended to replace whole foods such as fruits and vegetables because they can’t perfectly duplicate the nutrients found in these foods. The same goes for our pets too! Most dogs and cats in good health do not need supplementation if they are eating a high quality pet food. Most commerciallyprocessed pet foods already contain a wellbalanced mix of nutrients, vitamins, and minerals specific for dogs and cats. However, if a pet has not been receiving a well-balanced diet or has a specific health need, a supplement may be beneficial. Below is a general summary of supplements proven to help our pets. Every pet is different in regards to which supplements may benefit them the most. Please speak with your veterinarian before starting them on any supplements, to confirm the best choices for your pet’s health needs, and to establish the proper dosage. As with most things, too much of a good thing can have negative effects, so appropriate dosing is very important. Fish Oil. The most common and possibly the most broad-spectrum supplement is fish oil. Fish oil is beneficial for almost any pet. It helps to support the heart, kidneys, skin and
22 Northern Virginia Dog
| Summer 2015
fur coat, joints, and is helpful in many cancer patients. Joint Supplements. Another important class of supplements for our pets is joint supplements. Glucosamine, often times with Chondroitin Sulfate and occasionally also containing MSM (methylsulfonylmethane) can be useful for older pets. Joint supplements should also be used in younger animals that may be more prone to arthritis as they age. Previous trauma, breed, or known dysplasia of the joints would be reasons to start a joint supplement sooner rather than later. High quality joint supplements that are proven to work can be found at your veterinarian’s office. These products are likely more beneficial for your pets and easier to administer since they are designed to be tasty treats versus over-the-counter human supplements or treats sold at a pet store. Human supplements are considered nutraceuticals and aren’t regulated well and their bioavailability in pets hasn’t been tested. Pet store treats do not typically contain the therapeutic levels of glucosamine needed to help your pet. Liver Health. Animals with liver disease will benefit from S-adenosylmethionine (SAMe) and milk thistle. Anti-Inflammatory Benefits. Vitamins A, C, and E can provide anti-oxidant benefits and may be recommended when there is a condition of chronic inflammation (cancer, joint disease, infection, liver disease, etc).
Fiber supplements may be useful for pets prone to decreased intestinal motility and constipation. Increased fiber may also help animals with an elevated blood calcium level. Cranberry supplements have been proven to help reduce the risk of E. Coli urinary tract infections. Probiotics are safe and can assist pets that have chronic gastrointestinal issues, chronic urinary tract infections, or pets on antibiotics. Essential Oils. Essential oils are becoming more popular in both the human and animal world for trying to manage disease and symptoms without the use of traditional pharmaceuticals. There hasn’t been enough research done to confirm that oils are safe and effective in the veterinary world. Anecdotal evidence and some preliminary studies do suggest that they can be a powerful tool if used correctly. It is important to discuss the use of essential oils around and on your pets with a qualified professional—animals have very different metabolisms than humans and many things that are perfectly safe for us are toxic to our pets (similar to chocolate, raisins, Tylenol, etc). The use of essential oils in felines is generally not recommended due to data that supports serious complications can arise. If you have questions about your pet’s specific diet, including the best food for their breed, age, and lifestyle and if supplementation is right for them, consider scheduling an appointment at our practice. The doctors at Leesburg Veterinary Hospital will work with you to create a proper and balanced nutritional plan for your pet’s specific needs. Jennifer Boyle is a DVM at Leesburg Veterinary Hospital, which offers both traditional medical and holistic veterinary services. To get more advice on animal-related topics, visit LVH’s blog at http:// leesburgvetblog.com.
Getting Social With
novadog
Sherry D. “We love to go swimming.”
NOVADog recently asked, What’s Your Favorite Summertime Activity with Your Dog? Wendy S. G. “We like to go into DC and visit the monuments when the Honor Flights are in town. Our Scooter loves meeting the veterans!”
Jessie T-B. “Going to the dog park!”
Jennifer M. “Beach trips! This summer it’ll be our wedding at the beach and with my favorite family member as a bridesmaid, my dog, Gizmo (yes, her flowers cost as much as mine).”
Regina S. “We love to travel around to new places!”
Joyce E. “Street fairs. I put my two little ones in their stroller and we go exploring.”
Jennifer S. “We like going to the beach. Harper likes it when the wind blows his ears, and he loves to swim just about anywhere!” Angela D. “Swim, swim, and swim! Can’t keep her out of the water.” Kristen W. “Hiking White Oak Canyon and swimming at the Lower Falls!”
Join the conversation at www.facebook.com/novadog.
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CANINE CALENDAR August 15-16
J U LY July 25 6:00-10:00 PM – Beagle Freedom Project. The first annual Red, White & Beagle fundraiser will take place at River Farm in Alexandria, VA. This event will feature a silent auction, dinner, and music, and will benefit the Beagle Freedom Project, a nonprofit organization whose mission is to give beagles and other animals used in laboratory testing a chance at life after research. To purchase tickets or to learn more, visit www.redwhiteandbeagle.com.
July 31-August 2, 2015 Barrel Oak Winery Dog Daze of Summer Weekend. This weekend is for the dogs and dog lovers! There will be games and contacts for the two legged and four legged. Dress your dog up and receive a Barrel Oak tasting. www.barreloak.com/ event/dog-daze-summer-weekend-0
AUGUST
10:00 AM- 4:00 PM – DogFest at Shepherdstown. The historic town of Shepherdstown, WV will celebrate the Dog Days of Summer with its Third Annual DogFest. It will include a wide variety of activities for dogs, their owners, dog lovers, and the general public. All activities will be free and everyone will be welcomed. Watch the Shepherdstown Visitors Center website at http://shepherdstown.info/events/ shepherdstown-dogfest for schedule details.
August 23, 2015 12:00-3:00 PM – SPCA of Anne Arundel County 4th Annual Puppy Plunge. For this year’s event, we added more fun filled activities for you and your family. Participants (dogs) will gather on the beach at Camp Letts in Edgewater, Maryland and then run full speed ahead into Rhode River to demonstrate their owner’s commitment to helping the animals at the SPCA. www.spcapuppyplunge.org
August 23, 2015
August 5 (Additional date September 9) 3:43-4:43 PM. Yappy Hour at Le Meridien Rosslyn. Join the Rosslyn Business Improvement District and Le Meridien Hotel for Yappy Hour on the terrace at Le Meridien. There will be happy hour deals, outdoor seating, views of the Potomac, and special treats for your furry friends. A portion of the food and beverage sales will be donated to Homeward Trails.
Dogfish Head Alehouse-Fairfax will generously donate a proceed of all sales to the Homeless Animals Rescue Team to help aid in the fight against homeless animals and provide food, shelter, and medicine. Live music, raffles, and of course Dogfish Head Punkin Ale! Please visit hart90.org.
August 24 10:00-4:00 PM - Wags n’ Whiskers at The Village of Shirlington. This is a community-oriented event for animal
loving shoppers of all ages to spend an afternoon with their pet. The event features 60+ onsite exhibitors ranging from pet services and accessories to onsite adoptions. In addition to the onsite exhibitors, Wags n’ Whiskers hosts pet photos ($5), live music, and children’s activities such as face painting, balloon art, strolling entertainment and more. To learn more, visit http://villageatshirlington. com/events/upcoming-events/wags-nwhiskers/
August 27 7:05 PM - Washington Nationals Pet Day—Nationals vs San Diego Padres. In celebration of all pets, fans who purchase a ticket to the game will receive a team pet calendar. Sorry, no pets allowed in the ballpark.
SEPTEMBER September 3, 2015 7:05 PM – Pups in the Parks with the Washington Nationals – Washington Nationals v. Atlanta Braves. Bring your pups to Nationals Park! $10 of every dog ticket purchased will benefit the Washington Humane Society. To buy tickets, go to this link http://washington.nationals. mlb.com/was/ticketing/groups_events. jsp?group=pups
September 6, 2015 6:05 PM – Bark in the Park - Potoamc Nationals vs. Salem Red Sox. Bring your favorite 4-legged P-Nats fan out to the ballpark! All dogs are welcome to enjoy the game with their owners! Lots of fun
Special thanks to our calendar sponsor Fur-Get Me Not. www.furgetmenot.com
and events on game day. Get more info and buy tickets at www.milb.com/ promotions/index.jsp?sid=t436
September 12, 2015 Grab a leash and be part of Canine Companions DogFest Walk ‘n Roll! It’s a community dog walk at Pentagon Row in Arlington, VA that supports the mission of Canine Companions for Independence. Put together a team of friends, family members and coworkers. Then fundraise to earn a cool DogFest prize. If you raise $100, you’ll get a DogFest bandana to sport at DogFest. Then come to DogFest for a tail-waggin’ good time. To register, visit this link www.kintera.org/faf/home/ default.asp?ievent=1136546
September 13 11:00 AM -4:00 PM – Bichon Bash. Enjoy a day of fun and frolic for Bichons Frises and their human companions at Bull Run Park in Centreville. There will be training and grooming demos, door prizes, pet photography, gift baskets, and much more. http://www.bichonbash.org
September 26, 2015 HART & Veterans Moving Forward 5k. Run (or walk) to help celebrate our canine friends at Burke Lake Park. Proceeds for
Your pet is our priority. And that’s why we’re committed to delivering world-class surgery and physical rehabilitation in a facility that provides comfort to you and your furry family member when you need it most. Our renowned medical team specializes in:
• Advanced orthopedic surgery • Soft tissue procedures • Plastic & reconstructive surgery • Minimally invasive surgery • Physical rehabilitation • Pain management • Conditioning, weight loss & more! Let’s work together to restore your pet’s health and quality of life this Summer! Call us today at 703-242-6000 or speak with your veterinarian about a referral. Vienna • Leesburg • Winchester
www.VeterinarySurgicalCenters.com 24 Northern Virginia Dog
| Summer 2015
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this event will go towards helping homeless animals and also to help U.S. Veterans be matched with therapy dogs. Two great causes in one fun event! More info coming soon. Please visithart90. org or email hart90office@gmail.com.
September 26, 2015 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM – Friends of Homeless Animal’s Barktoberfest. Join fellow animal lovers at the Loudoun County Fairgrounds for music, games (kids and dogs), shopping, eating canine demonstrations, participation in a Mutt Strut, and much more—all to help raise much needed funds to allow FOHA to continue its mission of rescuing and finding forever homes for homeless animals.
September 26 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM—Pet-a-Palooza. The day includes music, pet entertainment, kids activities, exhibitors, the DC Walk for the Animals, and much more! http://support.washhumane.org/site/ PageNavigator/Walk/DC_Walk_homepage.html
Give your dog NoVA’s
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September 26 7:05 PM – Pups in the Parks with the Washington Nationals – Washington Nationals v. Philadelphia Phillies. Bring your pups to Nationals Park! $10 of every dog ticket purchased will benefit the Washington Humane Society. To buy tickets, go to this link http://washington.nationals.mlb.com/was/ ticketing/groups_events.jsp?group=pups
OCTOBER
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26 Northern Virginia Dog
| Summer 2015
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HIT THE TRAIL L o c a l wa l k s t o e n j o y
Don Peterson with his dog Buddy. Ice House at Red Rocks.
Red Rock Wilderness Overlook Park
Did you hike it? Please stop by our Facebook page to leave some of your own feedback, www.facebook.com/novadog.
By Carol Brooks
R
ed Rock Wilderness Overlook Park, near Leesburg, VA, is the perfect getaway for an easy summer hike with your pup. Located on busy Edwards Ferry Road close to the heart of Leesburg, the park’s curious roadside stone remnants guard a surprisingly remote wilderness behind. The Northern Virginia Regional Park Authority acquired this 67-acre property for recreational use in 1978. It was once part of a 2000 acre parcel owned by Charles Paxton, a wealthy industrialist turned gentleman farmer. The parkland was once the Paxton farm - the stone carriage house, granary, well house and ice house, built in the 1880s, are all that remain. After parking in the lot at the entrance, my co-reviewer Lily (my neighbor’s active poodle) and I took a tour of the nearby farm ruins. It was easy to imagine a bygone era of horses and carriages, even though the land is now adjacent to housing developments. As we were leaving the parking area, Lily and I met Don Peterson and his recently rescued dog, Buddy, who live nearby. Don said he and Buddy hiked the park’s main trail, ap-
About Your Guide Carol Brooks is co-owner of DogOn Fitness, a daily exercise service for dogs. She specializes in high-energy and overweight dogs, providing them with working walks, running, adventure hikes, and training reinforcement. Headquartered in Reston, DogOn Fitness services Northern Virginia and Montgomery County, MD. Visit them on the Web at www.dogonfitness.com.
proximately 1.2 miles, twice daily. He enjoys the peaceful escape, and they both enjoy the exercise. He warned us that the colors on the detailed trail map, located at the head of the parking area, do not match the blazes on the trees. Lily and I reviewed the trail map to decide on a route. It showed six interconnecting trails that you could explore to create any length hike. Don directed us to follow the light green blazed trail, shown as white on the trail map, for the maximum mileage and scenic experience in a single loop. We located the green blazed trailhead at the top left side of the parking lot. We hiked only a short distance before the sounds of passing cars on nearby Edwards Ferry Road faded into the softer sounds of nature. The trail is in excellent shape though a few unattended blown-down trees provided some on-the-spot agility opportunities. Not far from the parking lot, the Potomac River becomes visible through the trees. On the day we hiked, a breeze from the water kept us cool. At the river, the green blazed trail turns right and continues to follow the water from a ridge for a short distance. If you want to hike along the river, leave the park’s blazed trail at the turn and go straight following a steep unmarked path to the river. You can reconnect with the park’s green blazed trail downstream by climbing another steep and unmaintained trail leading away from the river. Lily and I continued to follow the green blazed trail through the woods, up and down hills and crossing several foot bridges. The trail returns to a river overlook again, offering
a spectacular viewing opportunity where you can pause on the provided bench. From this point, we continued following the light green blazed trail back to the parking lot. If you want to lengthen your hike or explore other areas of the park, try one of the other color-coded trails. Red Rocks Wilderness Overlook trails offer an easy and enjoyable hiking experience for any level hiker. Consider bringing a picnic to enjoy on one of the provided picnic benches near the parking lot to enjoy a summer day. ND
TRAIL SPECIFICS
Getting There: Red Rocks Regional Park is located on Edwards Ferry Road in Leesburg, VA 20176. It is next to the Leesburg Water Treatment Plant (43234 Edwards Ferry Rd NE, Leesburg, VA 20176) Cost: Free Park Hours: 7 days a week, Dawn to Dusk What to Bring: Wear sturdy waterproof shoes – the trail has muddy spots. Bring some water for you and your dog, waste bags, and towels for after-hike clean-up. Tick protection is a must. Trail Specifics: The Trails wind are blazed and easy to follow. There are some downed trees so be prepared to go over or under them. Fido-Friendly Features: Off-street parking; fun, dog-safe, wide trails. Use: Hikers, runners, on-leash dogs. Best Time to Go: Anytime. Rated: 1-2 paws. Very easy.
1 paw = easy; 5 = expert
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WAGS TO RICHES Adoption success stories
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Toby loved by Maureen and Patrick in Alexandria, Va.
Adopted in: March 2015 from Friends of Homeless Animals
(FOHA)
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Saturday, September 26, 2015 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM The Kingsbury Center 5000 14th Street, NW Washington, DC 20011
Bring Your Dog . Live Music Pet Entertainment . Kids Activities Pet Adoptions . Exhibitors… and much more! For more information, please visit
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How did he get his name: Toby came to Friends of Home-
less Animals (FOHA) with the name Tubby. This may or may not have had to do with the fact that he was nearly 60 pounds! FOHA vowed to slim him down and renamed him Toby. When we visited FOHA one weekend that we were volunteering, we walked Toby and fell in love with his sweet nature and adorable waddle. We didn’t have any names we were attached to so we decided to keep it and continue his prophecy of being a Toby instead of a Tubby. So far he’s down ten pounds! Favorite Toy: Any new toy since he will destroy it within three days and will then have to wait for another one. He loves any squeaky toys up until two squeaks. Then he gets scared and runs away.
Favorite activity or outing: Being outside! Toby loves going on long walks around Del Ray, riding down the GW Parkway with the windows down, or sniffing around new backyards. You picked him because: Initially, we were taken by how “tubby” he was. But when we walked him, we saw what a sweet, calm dog he was, and whenever we pet him, he’d nuzzle his head as close to our hands as he could. We knew he was our boy when he tried to climb a tree stump to mark it and subsequently lost his balance, rolling down the hill. We took him home that day. Favorite Treat/snack: Homemade fruit popsicles on a hot day. Cherry is his favorite. He also loves a chew toy any day. You love him because: He’s perfect! He is super sweet and
gentle, but is energetic and loves to play. He’s smart and has a gorgeous speckled coat to boot. What else could you want?! ND
Friends of Homeless Animals (FOHA) is a non-profit, no-kill shelter that focuses on the rescue and placement of homeless dogs and cats in the Northern Virginia and Washington DC area. For more information, visit www.foha.org.
28 Northern Virginia Dog
| Summer 2015
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