American Dog Magazine Spring 2012 Issue by The American Dog Magazine

SPRING 2012

A WRINKLE IN TIME...read on. The Indian Solid Gold (Curcumin) and the Solid Gold SunDancer Dog Food The best dog food that you can buy for your dog is the Solid Gold SunDancer. It has no grains and no gluten. To control gas production, and maybe bloat in dogs, SunDancer uses tapioca and quinoa, called the Food of the Future. The meat is chicken and fish, all the Oriental dogs, the Arctic dogs, and dogs from England, Scotland, Ireland and water dogs, such as labs and poodles, were fed a fishbased diet and sea vegetation, such as in our Sea Meal, which is always fed with our dog food. Retrievers, terriers and spaniels, were originally from England are included. Sea Meal is effective against allergies and scratching. Curcumin is the root of the turmeric plant, and is in our SunDancer dog food, Curcumin has a 4,000 year old history in India for helping a wide variety of health problems. Dr. Oz on TV frequently talks about curcumin. Edgar Cayce, the sleeping prophet, said the two greatest gifts from God to Man are curcumin and olive oil. The Jan. 2003 issue of Cancer Research declared that curcumin has the ability to “suppress proliferation of cancer cells.” The October 2010 issue of “Nutrition and Cancer” indicated that curcumin makes chemo more effective. Recently, a breeder of Dalmatians talked with our sales person about using our SunDancer dog food. He had been feeding a cheap, crappy dog food. He decided to continue to feed the inferior food and buy curcumin/turmeric in a health food store and add it to the dog’s food. BIG MISTAKE! About a month later he called our store. He asked, “Have you ever seen a yellow Dalmatian?” He had one. He had overdosed on the curcumin. First of all, curcumin has to be cooked at a low temperature and must be mixed with oils to release the active properties. He rushed the dog to the vets. He never told the vet what he had done. So after extensive and expensive test, on the liver and kidneys, costing over $350, he called us. We put the dog on our non-curcumin Holistique Blendz dry dog food. Holistic does not mean natural or organic. It means that the whole body works together-mind, body and spirit. See the previous information on problems with white, near white or light colored dogs. White dogs absorb more ultra violet light (photo-aging) which may depress the immune system. Holistique Blendz is only 18% protein from fish, to spare stress on the organs. It is particularly effective on dogs with tear stains. Most of the tear stains are on white or light color dogs. So dropping the protein to 18% helps. Sissy has an 18 year old Dane mix. She was all gray on the muzzle. After six months on the SunDancer, the black came back.

Now for our cute story – “A Wrinkle in Time” It was during WWII, Sissy, the owner of Solid Gold, lived in N.J. Her father worked for the army getting hard to find products. One summer, he was transferred to New Mexico. Sissy and her mother went there for the summer to be with him. In the cool of the evenings, the kids would go to a local stable to play with the horses. The kids loved to groom the horses. Sissy’s favorite was Fury, owned by Mr. O. Mr. O. told Sissy that if she would give Fury a daily brushing, he would teach her how to ride. So the entire summer was a delightful experience. Eventually, the summer came to an end, and Sissy returned back home. It was several years later, after the war was over, that Sissy was reading the paper. She saw a familiar photograph. She asked her mother why Mr. O’s picture was in the paper. Her mother smiled, it was a picture of Dr. Robert Oppenheimer, the Father of the Atomic Bomb in Los Alamos, New Mexico. “Just a Wrinkle in Time”.

Solid Gold Holistic Animal Nutrition Center 1331 N. Cuyamaca, El Cajon, CA 92020

Ask your local pet store for a free catalogue. If they don’t have a SunDancer catalogue, call us at (619)258-7356, M-F, 10am to 5pm Pacific time. Or e-mail us at sarah@ solidgoldholisitc.com. You can also visit our website at www.solidgoldholistic.com.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

12 14

16 20

Spring 2012

A Mama’s Love

Together with Trevor Turbo Tusker

VOLUME 5, ISSUE 1 28 Meet the Family

Amazing Dog Profile

31 32 34

I Love My German Shepherd

I Love My Special Needs Dog

Cloverton the Deaf Dog Inspiring Celebrity Profile

Rachel Grant Cover Story

40 45

Will Post, Founder of Hound & Gatos Pet Food

Meet the Family

Great Life Pet Products Meet the Family

Party Animal Pet Food Meet the Family

Evanger’s Dog & Cat Food

Solid Gold Health

Dogs Steppin’ Out Dogs Smelling Flowers Amazing Super Dog Beauty Pageant Winners True Grit

KC Pet Project Dogs in Love Role Model: Compassion

BAD RAP

Role Model: Devotion

StubbyDog

Role Model: Dedication

Bless the Bullys

Role Model: Motivate

Rowdy to the Rescue Role Model: Inspire

Josh Liddy – SwayLove

Bark in the Park 2011 – Bless the Bullys

4 Spring 2012 | The American Dog Magazine

Photo courtesy of Bless the Bullys

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

Spring 2012

Role Model: Passion

Daisy Davis Pit Rescue

54 Famous Dogs on Facebook 60 Dog Parent Families 66 Training

A Successful Relationship Dog Sports

Fun Activities with Your Dog! Working Dogs

Service Dogs Help Dr’s Corner

Allergies in Dogs

Benefits of Coconut Oil, Cranberries, Sardine Oil

Holistic Alternatives

74 In the Dog’s Kitchen 77 Wellness 80 82

Health with Dr. Jasek

Natural Health – Dr. Harvey

New Cancer Aid For Pets

VOLUME 5, ISSUE 1 84 Featured Author

87 88

Julie Lewin

Featured Author

Lisa Preston

Bedtime Books Happily Ever After

Hope Lady Bug the Pibble Lucy the Pit Bull Bruno’s Story Shila Cheyenne Spartacus the Wonderbull Walter Ready Treasure Bobob Auggie Bear Jagger Frankie

Laura Petrolino with Paisley, Peanut, & Bruschi

JAGGER

Photo by Flyin Fur Pet Photography

photo courtesy of Jagger's mama

6 Spring 2012 | The American Dog Magazine

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Spring 2012 | The American Dog Magazine

Founder / publiSher

JAmie m doWney

editor in chieF

JAmie m doWney

editoriAl director Art director creAtive director

lAuren Wineberg kelly mAyer michAel Antone

cover photo by

heAther green

Senior editor

dAvid revierter

mAnAging editor Senior copy editor copy editor book revieW editor AdvertiSing director production coordinAtor

cASey rodArbAl SondrA levine deborAh JohnSon nAncy Allen JAmie m doWney kim thornton

SociAl mediA director

JAmie m doWney

diStribution mAnAger

John hAddock

buSineSS mAnAger SubScription mAnAger

Ann JAmiSon emmA broWn

CONTRIBUTINg WRITERS: dr. leonArd d. JonAS, dr. Judy JASek, dr. elliott hArvey, meliSSA pArker, mAry ellen Sechler, dAle pellerin, rAchel grAnt, monicA mAnkinen, lAurA petrolino, chriS hugheS, JoSh liddy, Jodi preiS, donnA reynoldS, liSA preSton, Julie leWin, SArAh logAn, brent toellner, tAmrA monAhAn, doug & eliZAbeth SimpSon, heAther cunninghAm CONTRIBUTINg PHOTOgRAPHERS: dAle pellerin, rAchel grAnt, Flyin Fur pet photogrAphy, bleSS the bullyS, bAd rAp, Freedom Service dogS, bellevieW AnimAl clinic, JAdriAn JohnStun, SArAh JAckSon, AlyciA hAyeS, tArA AbernAthy, meghAn lodge, lynn reAdy, debbie bAuer, ShAri yAteS-moreheAd, hillAry klAdke, Wendy roSSen, tom pierre, richie SchWArtZ, chriStine rich, Al chAng, Simple eXpreSSion photogrAphy, Smythely, StAcy dubuc, JAmeS pFenning, JAmie doWney, heAther green how to reach us: the dog publishing, dba: The American Dog 20269 E. Smoky Hill Rd. #B-136 Centennial, CO 80015 Phone: (303) 840-6111 (Colorado) info@theamericandogmag.com www.theamericandogmag.com For advertising inquiries: Email to: advertise@theamericandogmag.com letters to the editor/story ideas: Email to: editor@theamericandogmag.com Subscription rate is $20 per year within the United States and $50 per year for all foreign subscriptions. U.S. funds only. Subscriptions are non-refundable. Subscribe online: www.theamericandogmag.com

subscribers: If the postal service alerts us that your magazine is undeliverable, we have no further obligation unless we receive a corrected address within one year. Email change of address to: subscribe@theamericandogmag.com postmaster: Please forward change of address to: the dog publishing 20269 E. Smoky Hill Rd. #B-136 Centennial, CO 80015 copyright 2012 No part of this publication may be reproduced without expressed written permission of the publisher. No part may be transmitted in any form by any means, including electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, without prior written permission from the publisher. Publisher accepts no liability for solicited or unsolicited materials that are damaged or lost. Views expressed by editorial contributors do not necessarily reďŹ&#x201A;ect the views of the publisher.

A MAMA’S LOVE

TURBoTUSKER

the almost toothless senior Jack Russell Terrier

By Melissa Parker (Turbo Tusker’s mama)

In January 2005, I went to the local shelter and saw this elderly Jack Russell Terrier who was 13–16 years old. He wagged his tail when I walked up to him, and it was instant love! I changed his name to Turbo after we brought him home, and he seemed to blossom. During his first veterinary visit, we were told that he needed a dental because his teeth were in horrible condition. 27 teeth were removed. As time went on, we rescued Boost, another Jack Russell Terrier, from the same shelter. Turbo came alive again. Boost and Turbo would play until no tomorrow. After we got married and had two children, Turbo would guard the babies like they were his own. Then, in December of 2010, we discovered he had pancreatitis, but after a week he was

back to normal. However, in April of 2011, after I applied a topical flea product to the back of his neck, within 12 hours he was violently coughing and could barely breathe. I took him to the vet and found out that an allergic reaction to the flea prevention had caused the glands in his neck to freeze, but he was back to his normal self within a week. Unfortunately, in January 2012, his pancreatitis has returned with a vengeance. He shows his stubbornness when he doesn’t feel well. He is a fighter and we hope the best for him. We know he is old, but when he passes there will be a hole in our hearts that may not ever be filled. We love our Turbo Tusker!

Become a fan: www.facebook.com/TurboTuskers

TOGETHERWITH TREVOR FOREVER! By Mary Ellen Sechler (Trevor’s mama)

Trevor, a beautiful black Shepherd/ black Lab mix puppy was chained 24/7 in a backyard, and one day the renters just moved and never came back for him. I rescued him when he was about 8 months old, and throughout the years Trevor has helped raise my son through his teen years and some of his twenties.When my son and his friends were here, Trevor could be found right in the middle of them, because to him, they were his pack! After 13 years, my beautiful Trevor is still so special to me because he takes me for a walk every day, which helps to keep my arthritis and depression under better control. He sleeps with me and wakes me up every morning with a big good morning kiss! Now my sweet and loving Trevor has been diagnosed with mast cell cancer and will have surgery on his cancerous tumor. Please keep my sweet Trevor in your prayers

because we need him to beat this so we can continue to help others. Trevor is always there for me, whether I am mad, sad, or happy. He gives his love unconditionally. All any dog wants is to be loved back. My dog puts a smile on my face and in my heart every morning. I treasure our times together. While we wait for the next results, we will cuddle and snuggle and snore together. I will give him all the belly rubs and hugs and will show him all the love I have. I love him and take care of him all day, every day. This is exactly what his Facebook page talks about—the love, the commitment a person gives to their dog. You can follow Trevor and his stories on Facebook, which is what I am still praying for!

Become a fan: www.facebook.com/ Together-with-Trevor-Forever

10 Spring 2012 | The American Dog Magazine

Mary Ellen and son Corey with Trevor

I LOVE MY SPECIAL NEEDS DOG!

Chance

Colt

He's special in his awesomeness and Chance has no idea he's handicapped or special needs. He was tied to the train tracks and hit by two trains — one at each end. In the six months he's been with me his mobility has improved significantly.

Colt, a.k.a. “Squeaky,” was slated to be put down due to inoperable IVDD. I rescued him (as I feel disabled dogs deserve to live a happy life). When traditional treatments did not work, I bought him a cart. I use him to educate people about disabled dogs. Disabled? Try telling him that. (Nothing slows him down.)

Nigel This is my dog Nigel, an 8 year old Border Collie/Spaniel mix who is missing his front left leg. I adopted him 7 years ago from the Oregon Humane Society and nothing slows him down!

Rocky I adopted Rocky last year after fostering him. He came into rescue with his rear right leg broken and infected, so it had to be amputated. Days later he was also stricken with Parvo. He recovered and is now perfectly healthy and happy. He has never let being 3-legged stop him from being the fun-loving, exuberant, and high energy boy that he is!

Lula

Lula is an 11 year old Chesapeake Bay Retriever. She is a permanent foster of the Chessie Rescue of WI and has been in the rescue for 2 years. She has severe hip dysplasia, two ruptured ACL's, and is incontinent. She also had Lymes Disease and Giardia, but she always has a smile on her face.

Spring 2012 | The American Dog Magazine

I LOVE MY SPECIAL NEEDS DOG!

Trooper Trooper is a 3-legged Pit Bull who has earned his AKC Canine Good Citizen (CGC), his Therapy Dog International (TDI), and he is a Certified Service Dog. Trooper is 4 years old and he was rescued then I adopted him. He's such a great dog!

Pluto

Heading Home Animal Rescue pulled Pluto from a shelter. He was born with severely deformed legs, meaning he has to walk on his front elbows. Both of his front legs require several surgeries to straighten them out. Once his surgeries are completed and he is healed, he will be ready for adoption.

Ace

This is Ace, our 4 year old Pit Bull, who lost his leg in a car accident in January 2011. My husband and I just adopted him 3 months ago and he has been such a bundle of joy. And believe it or not, he loves to go running!

Rosie Treasure

Rosie came to A Leg Up Rescue about 4 months ago. She had been physically abused, which lead to the loss of her 'good' eye, and emotionally abused by being locked in a small bathroom all day/night. After we rescued her she wanted to stay outdoors, just soaking up the sun.

My dog Treasure is a double merle Sheltie. She was born both blind and deaf due to irresponsible breeding practices. She lived in an outdoor pen for 3 years then got dumped in a shelter. I saw her on Petfinder and adopted her. Now she works as a therapy dog with me bringing smiles and healing to many people!

The American Dog Magazine | Spring 2012

AMAZING DOG PROFILE

CLOVERTON THE DEAF DOG

dale and cloverton 2011 ms Bike ms colorado

By dale Pellerin (cloverTon’s daddy)

Cloverton became my best friend from day one. I had been looking for a “disheveled shaggy dog” at the local animal shelters and found a 9 month old, Old English Sheepdog puppy named Cloverton, who was deaf. I contacted the shelter, and they made arrangements with the foster family to bring the puppy over to my residence so we could meet. It was love at first sight, and I adopted Cloverton the next day. Over the next couple of years, our family went on to hike twenty-five 14ers (14,000+ foot mountain peaks) across Colorado. Cloverton not only provided me an activity buddy on hikes in the mountains, he also became my constant companion. Since he was deaf, I would communicate with him using hand signals; Cloverton quickly picked up on sign language and eventually learned over 50 signs. In late 2010, a medical condition made it possible for me to have a medical service dog. Due to Cloverton’s deafness, he is very visually acute to everything I do. This trait and my medical service

need blended well together; therefore, Cloverton was registered as my medical service dog. Because Cloverton’s handicap actually helped him to help me with mine, an even stronger symbiotic relationship was formed between the two of us. In the beginning, he depended upon me, but now I think I depend upon him more than I would have ever guessed. Literally almost everything I do in some way revolves around him. Having been a long-time rider in the Bike Multiple Sclerosis Colorado Ride, I was eager to register for the 2011 ride. There was an opportunity to bring Cloverton along on the ride due to his medical service registration, so he became the first dog to ever participate in a Bike MS ride anywhere in the country. On June 25 and 26, 2011, Cloverton and I embarked on a 150-mile bike ride from Denver to Fort Collins and back to raise money to find a cure for Multiple Sclerosis. With the help of hundreds of Cloverton’s fans from around the world, Cloverton raised over

Spring 2012 | The American Dog Magazine

Photo By James Pfenning

$4,500, and (combined with my $1000 and my girlfriend Katja’s $6,000) we raised nearly $12,000 for the National Multiple Sclerosis Society. Cloverton ranked in 75th place out of 3500 riders for funds raised and was selected as a special guest at the 2011 National MS Society Annual Convention in Dallas last November. In 2012, Cloverton will be fielding his own team in several charitable events including the 2012 Bike MS Colorado, 2012 Bike MS Oklahoma, Walk MS Denver, and Avon Walk for Breast Cancer. He will also be participating in the Susan G. Komen Walk in Denver. We’ll be publishing a special deaf dog calendar of Cloverton later in the year to raise money for the Rocky Mountain Deaf School in Golden, Colorado and Colorado School for the Deaf and Blind.

For more information: visit the website at: www.clovertonthedeafdog.org Become a fan at: www.facebook.com/ cloverton-the-deaf-dog

I LOVE MY GERMAN SHEPHERD!

Cheyenne

Amy

Shadow

Suesse, Rondo & Makeda

Borias

16 Spring 2012 | The American Dog Magazine

Ozz i e

I LOVE MY GERMAN SHEPHERD!

Bo n e s

Earp

O'S tara

Mo l l i e

Dy l a n

Hans Da ve

The American Dog Magazine | Spring 2012 17

I LOVE MY GERMAN SHEPHERD!

Wo l f e Ro c k o

Blitz

Bela & Luna A pollo Le x y 18 Spring 2012 | The American Dog Magazine

I LOVE MY GERMAN SHEPHERD!

Ruach

Kaya

Busta Bear Kali Onyx Ba n j o

The American Dog Magazine | Spring 2012 19

INSPIRING CELEBRITY PROFILE

RACHEL GRANT

I enjoy working with various communities around the world and have traveled to almost 40 countries. When I travel abroad, whether for work or vacation, I will always make a point to visit a charity or organization that is making a difference in the community—not just for people, but also for the animals. As much as I enjoy humanitarian work, I am equally devoted to loving all creatures, great and small. When I lived in the United Kingdom, I helped support the World Society for the Protection of Animals (WSPA) by helping raise awareness of abused bears in the world. When I later visited Kenya (while shooting a movie called The African Game), I visited the WSPA on the island of Lamu and witnessed wonderful conservation work with marine life and the protection of sea turtles in the Indian Ocean. While in the Galapagos, I enjoyed learning from the Galapagos Conservation Trust about the efforts and strict measures taken to protect the endemic, endangered Galapagos Tortoise. On my recent visit to the Philippines, I visited the Philippine Tarsier and Wildlife Sanctuary on the island of Bohol. I saw the incredible difference they are doing to help protect the world’s smallest primate—the Philippine Tarsier.

I am a big supporter of the Gawad Kalinga Community Development Foundation, which has helped rebuild poor communities, as well as ban poor treatment of animals—namely dogs. Gawad Kalinga has proven itself a huge success. They have touched many lives, employed many people, and the villages they have rebuilt are not only beautiful but are kind to animals and the environment.

Since I was born in the Philippines, my heart lies with charitable organizations in that country—ones helping to improve and rebuild slums, as well as eradicating poor treatment of animals.

This year, I also plan to take part in the Animal Rescue Fund’s charity events once again, and a trip to Australia (for James Bond’s 50th anniversary events with Australian James Bond

However, I currently live in New York City with my beautiful 2 year old Boxer called Brutus and make the most of any opportunity here that I have to support local events and fundraisers. Last October, my dog Brutus and I had a blast taking part in the Animal Rescue Fund’s (ARF) charitable Stroll to Sea Dog Walk in East Hampton. Brutus also took part in the West Village D.O.G. Run Howl-oween costume parade in New York City. I was thrilled to be asked to judge this charity event along with celebrity judges John Bartlet (fashion designer), Hugo Ace, and Dimitri Kelembelidis (Beasty Feast stores). Generous donations, a silent auction, and raffle tickets helped raise much funds, which were donated to New York rescue groups and animal charities.

20 Spring 2012 | The American Dog Magazine

PHOTOS COURTESY OF RACHEL GRANT

Actress, television host, martial artist, published author, and humanitarian!

actor George Lazenby) will only open further opportunities to see conservation work and the protection of animals abroad. In addition, 2012 will see the launch of my new organic shampoo and conditioner called Furry Kind for dogs, which uses the goodness from coconut oils and exotic, chemicalfree ingredients from the Philippine Islands—an abundant, fertile land, rich in natural resources and extensive coastlines with unique mineral deposits. Rachel Grant is a British, Philippineborn actress and writer best known for her role as Peaceful in the James Bond film Die Another Day. She is also an extreme traveler working in humanitarian endeavors around the world, as well as for the protection of endemic species and animal welfare.

For more information: Visit the Website at: www.rachelgrant.com Become a fan: www.facebook.com/Rachel-Grant

COVER STORY

WILL POST Founder of Hound & Gatos Pet Foods is on a mission to single-handedly improve the health and well-being of dogs and cats - one can at a time!

The aMerican dog rePorTs Photos By heather green PhotograPhy

Spring 2012 | The American Dog Magazine

COVER STORY

FAMILY-OWNED PET FOOD COMPANY A true pet lover and global entrepreneur, Will Post knew he had to do something to help save the lives of his dogs, who are allergic to soy, wheat, rice, and corn. He also needed to help put an end to their dependency on the traditional drugs prescribed for treatment of food allergies, which could cause stomach issues, seizures, and a shorter life span for his pets.

start my own pet food company since there was nothing like it on the market!” Post says. Believing in the Paleolithic approach to proper health and nutrition, Post followed his passion and founded Hound & Gatos Pet Foods, with the slogan “The Original Paleolithic Pet Food Company.” He is single-handedly improving the health and wellbeing of dogs and cats—one can at a time!

Post, a former U.S. Marine who is devoted to his canine kids, went on a mission to find a dog food that would stop his pets’ need for drugs and a food that was healthy and nutritious. The more he researched the dog food industry and read the ingredient labels, the more he saw dog food being loaded with by-products, additives, preservatives, animal fat, and lard. “No wonder so many dogs had allergies and were getting sick and dying prematurely,” Post says. In addition, many health problems, including diabetes and obesity in pets, were on the rise due to commercial pet foods being loaded with cheap fillers like rice, wheat, and corn.

His timing was perfect. Because of all the pet food recalls over the last couple years, consumers found out that some major corporations were sourcing ingredients from China to make more profit and were also putting sawdust, peanut hulls, and wheat as fillers in the food. Now these pet parents are dumping the big brands and turning to the smaller, family-owned pet food companies that put fresh, natural, and healthy ingredients in their pet food products. Hound & Gatos has filled that niche as more and more concerned pet parents are reading labels and only buying their pets’ food from family-owned manufacturers that use ingredients solely made in the USA.

Unable to find any high-quality pet food, Post decided to buy the best ingredients he could find and started cooking food for his dogs out of his own kitchen. That was in 2003, and soon friends, neighbors, and coworkers heard of his story and started asking to buy his homemade dog food for their own pets. “I just couldn’t keep up with the demand. It was overwhelming, and everyone was telling me that I had to

Overnight, Hound & Gatos Pet Foods has tapped into the demand for a premium dog food. The company’s formula replicates a balanced diet that a pet would eat in his or her natural habitat. According to Post, dogs and cats are carnivores and are designed to eat a meat-based diet that is high in protein and low in carbs. Hound & Gatos Pet Foods recipes consist of 98% animal

protein and are all-meat products. Post wants to improve the health and well-being of pets and says, “A Paleolithic approach to feeding your pets will help dogs and cats thrive and bring good health and vitality to your beloved pet. Once a pet is on a 100% all-meat diet, there will be no real need for allergy or stomach drugs. Dogs in the wild eat meat and they do not need drugs to survive.” Hound & Gatos Pet Foods offers a delicious selection of canned dog and cat food in six flavors: Homestyle Chicken, Pacific Northwest Salmon, American Rabbit, Beef Recipe, Pheasant, and a new signature recipe of Lamb-Chicken-Salmon. They also have a line of supplements for your pet: Probiotics, Vitamins, Hip & Joint, and Cranberry Triple C (with a total of 20 supplements). Hound & Gatos Pet Foods is made in the USA in an AIB, CIFA, EU Certified Facility and sold globally in Europe, Canada, Asia, and throughout the United States at your local independent retail pet stores. Your local pet store can order Hound & Gatos from their distributor, or you may purchase online at www.HoundGatos.com.

For more information or to contact: visit the website at: www.houndgatos.com Become a fan at: www.facebook.com/hound-gatosPet-foods-corporation

The American Dog Magazine | Spring 2012

MEET THE FAMILY

FAMILY-OWNED

PET FOOD

C O MPA NI E S Meet the owners of these family-run pet food companies who are all committed to your dog’s health and wellness. These companies are focused on quality and utilize only the freshest, natural ingredients in their pet food from the mixing bowl to your dog’s dish!

24 Spring 2012 | The American Dog Magazine

MEET THE FAMILY

Photo courtesy of Great Life Performance Pet Products

FAMILY-OWNED PET FOOD COMPANIES

GREAT LIFE PERFORMANCE PET PRODUCTS

Dr. Elliott Harvey and Shiloh

What was the inspiration for starting your own pet food company? My dog was 5 years old when he died of cancer. I loved my white German Shepherd, and was heartbroken when I was informed he had cancer. I wanted to know why! After researching ingredients, I found that many pet food companies were using harmful ingredients in their food, and I wanted to save other pet owners the heartache that I suffered. How long did it take your dream to become the actual reality of your company? Great Life started in 1996, and this has been an amazing journey. When I started Great Life, many people advised me that my product was way ahead of its time, but we are still working on it to become a reality. When consumers really learn about ingredients and stop buying foods that can cause problems, the actual reality of my dream will form. What have been the most exciting rewards of owning a family-run pet food company? The many thank-you letters and pictures we receive from consumers stating how delighted they are regarding the benefits of feeding Great Life foods

Owner: Dr. Elliott Harvey www.doctorsfinest.com to their pets. Dogs who have been switched to Great Life have shown remarkable relief from allergies, digestive problems, skin problems, organ problems, and more. These dogs become happy and healthy. One story I vividly recall is of a lady who was told by her vet to put down her 4 month old Rottweiler puppy due to many health problems. She switched her pup to Great Life pet food and revisited the vet one-and-a-half years later after winning a blue ribbon for Best of Breed at the Golden Gate Kennel Club Show. The vet refused to believe that was the same dog. Proper nutrition can be very beneficial. What makes your pet food a little different from other pet foods? I take great pride in utilizing the finest US ingredients and creating a remarkable, healthy pet food. We call Great Life, “The Art of Eating Healthy.” I also realized that natural raw food is the most nutritious way to feed a pet; however, kibble is the easiest and most sought after way to feed. At that point, I created what I called the “cupcake principle.” I utilize low heat to cook a natural kibble with one protein source and healthy fruits and vegetables. This was the cake. The raw food diet that encompassed protein, fruits, vegetables, super green foods, and super berries (loaded with antioxidants) was freeze

dried. I then added a full spectrum of enzymes and pre-probiotics on the kibble after cooling, enveloping all the pores of the kibble and the outside. This was the Nutri-Coat (icing). We developed a fully active, nutrition-based food, second to none—the benefits of a raw food diet with the ease of serving a kibble and no refrigeration. What are the plans for the future of Great Life Performance Pet Foods? My quest to find as many new and exciting ingredients that can benefit pets is never-ending, and we are coming out with a few more new and exciting products. In addition, I have been asked to develop a nutritional and informative video based on my book The Healthy Wholistic Dog.

The American Dog Magazine | Spring 2012 25

MEET THE FAMILY FAMILY-OWNED PET FOOD COMPANIES

PARTY ANIMAL PET FOOD Owners: Daryl and Shawna Abrams www.partyanimalpetfood.com

What have been the most exciting rewards of owning a family-run pet food business? What was the inspiration for starting your own pet food company? Having four dogs at the time and endless amounts of love for our pets, we were always searching to feed them something we felt was safe, nutritious, and clean. After several years of unsuccessfully searching for an organic, good tasting, and nutritious line of dog food for our pets, we decided to create our own. Our goal was to develop a certified organic line of pet food. We took our ideas and began working on a line of pet food that was made with only the finest organic ingredients available, allowing us and our future customers to trust what the pets were eating. We worked with our nutrition research team, developmental staff, and leading veterinarians to come up with formulas that not only taste great organically, but also provide a healthy, hormone- and pesticide-free diet for our pets. How long did it take for your dream to become the actual reality of your company? Party Animal officially became a business in February 2007. The dream to actual reality took about two years from conception to formulating to finally seeing the finished product on store shelves.

The most exciting reward has been the ability to know exactly what our pets are eating. Our pet food is clean, healthy, and organic. As owners and passionate pet parents, we are able to offer our food to all other pet parents who want the best for their pets, just like us. We use ingredients that include organic turkey, organic chicken, organic beef, organic blueberries, organic cranberries, organic apples, organic bananas, organic sweet potatoes, organic artichoke, organic broccoli, organic spinach, and organic olive oil, just to name a few. Not only are these ingredients organic, they also assist with an array of health benefits for pets, which include bright and clear eyes, strong immune systems, assistance with eliminating skin infections and allergies, as well as healthy stools and healthy shiny coats. What makes your pet food a little different from other pet foods? Our company primarily uses organic, gourmet ingredients that are not typically found in pet food. Organic ingredients do not contain pesticides, synthetic fertilizers, antibiotics, growth hormones, GMO’s, by-products, artificial colors or flavors, or preservatives. The result is clean pet food with a

26 Spring 2012 | The American Dog Magazine

superior nutritional value, the way nature intended. All Party Animal organic ingredients are USDA, OCIA International, or Oregon Tilth certified. The organic certification process requires each ingredient in Party Animal Pet Food products to be reviewed and approved by the organic certifying agency that is operated under the federal USDA National Organic Program. A complete breakdown of our formula, including sources of each ingredient, is required as part of the approval process. This independent third-party review and approval process is unique in pet food. Simply stated, when you see the USDA seal, under the USDA regulations, the product must contain a minimum of 95% organic ingredients.

What are the plans for the future of Party Animal Pet Food? Currently, we are in the process of launching an organic line of canned cat food. We are also formulating new organic canned dog food flavors, as well as an organic treat line. We really listen to our customers, and the feedback they give us helps us determine what to add to our product line. Party Animal is available throughout the nation at fine retailers as well as online (with free shipping!) at www.partyanimalpetfood.com

MEET THE FAMILY

JOEL AND HOLLY SHER WITH YUKON

FAMILY-OWNED PET FOOD COMPANIES

EVANGER’S DOG AND CAT FOOD COMPANY Owners: Joel and Holly Sher www.evangersdogfood.com

What was the inspiration for starting your own pet food company? In 1935, Fred Evanger started making his own canned foods with pure meat because he felt that his champion Great Danes required superior nutrition in order to prevent any dietary deficiencies. He was not satisfied with the commercial pet foods available to him at that time and believed that using human-grade meats was essential to increasing the dogs’ longevity. Fred was a family friend, and Joel was the raw material supplier for over 20 years for Evanger’s, so in 2002 we bought the company. Today, we continue to innovate with the same enthusiasm as our founder, and we strive to maintain Fred Evanger’s commitment to quality and quest to keep pets healthy and happy. What have been the most exciting rewards of owning a family-run pet food business? Evanger’s is the last privately held and family-owned pet food cannery in the country. We can come up with recipes and novel ideas and launch them almost overnight. We don’t have

to get answers from shareholders who are only interested in profit. For example, we make Chunky Chicken Casserole only because it is my dog’s favorite recipe. The profit on that food is almost nothing to the Evanger family. However, to Yukon our dog, it is the best of the best. What makes your pet food a little different from other pet foods? We use fresh meat. In 2002 we developed the concept of hand-packed pet food. It was initially developed specifically for our dog, Yukon; a beautiful Samoyed/Chow Chow mix with a very selective palate. Even though the meat was the same, Yukon preferred to eat our dinner steaks instead of his ground steak. So we decided to try putting a whole, non-ground piece of beef in a can and cook it. Of course, when we served it to Yukon that evening, he loved it, and our #1 flavor, Hunk of Beef, was born. All of our Evanger’s dog foods must be approved by Yukon before we bring them to market. Our mission is to increase the quality and enjoyment of life of our companion pets through nutrition. To this day, Evanger’s remains just as

committed to quality and innovation as ever, and we continue to develop new products that will fit within this philosophy. We have proudly been independently owned for over 75 years, and because of this, we continue to sell our products exclusively through independent neighborhood pet shops where quality and customer service are of the utmost importance. What are the plans for the future of Evanger’s Dog and Cat Food Company? We take a tremendous amount of joy and pride in manufacturing what we truly believe is the best pet food in the world. We are a family-owned and family-operated company, and we love that what we do every day makes such a large and positive impact on the health and quality of life for your pets. Every year, we offer new recipes for dogs and cats that taste delicious, and we always have something cooking in the kitchen. Evanger’s offers a wide selection of grain-free, kosher, organic, and premium selections for your pets. Visit www.evangersdogfood.com for more information.

The American Dog Magazine | Spring 2012 27

MEET THE FAMILY Sissy Harrington-McGill with her dog Shannon

FAMILY-OWNED PET FOOD COMPANIES

SOLID GOLD HEALTH PRODUCTS Owner: Sissy Harrington-McGill www.solidgoldhealth.com

photo courtesy of Solid Gold Health

What was the inspiration for starting your own pet food company? I’ve had Great Danes since 1958, and back then, I handled them myself at dog shows. In the 1960s, I had three Great Danes who all died of bloat. At that time, no other country in the world (except the US) was using soy, beans, wheat, and corn in their pet food and bloat was only occurring in dogs in the United States. I found it unusual that the Great Danes in Germany were healthy and lived to be 11 to 13 years old, while the American Great Danes only lived to be 7 to 9 years old. So in 1974, I decided to fly to Germany and buy the fawn son of the 1974 World Champion Great Dane and the brindle nephew of the 1973 World Champion Great Dane. I spent four months in Germany learning to speak the language and spending time with the puppy and the breeder of the World Champion Great Dane. This breeder also owned a pet food company, Hund-n-Flocken, which was the number-one-selling pet food in Germany for 20 years, and I believed that the life span and longevity of German Great Danes versus the American Great Danes had to be nutrition related. So I brought back samples of his dog food, over 50 pounds, had the food analyzed and then developed the Solid Gold

Health Hund-n-Flocken. I then called nineteen different pet food manufacturers in the United States to make this pet food for me. All nineteen companies turned me down initially; however, one of them finally agreed to make the food if I would buy the ingredients. He also said I would need to order 25 tons of the dog food. So I got a bunch of my friends, breeders and handlers, to invest in this one shipment of food, and we had it produced. I went to the first dog show with my pet food, and it was a huge success. I then officially started my family-owned and family-operated pet food company, Solid Gold Health, in 1975—working out of my house and my garage. Eventually I was able to quit my teaching day job and just work full time as a pet food manufacturer. What have been the most exciting rewards of owning a family-run pet food business? Even though I turned 79 years old this year, I still enjoy going to work and being able to provide all of our customers with the most wholesome and nutritious food on the market for their pets. I travel quite extensively to foreign countries to continually learn about herbs, nutrition, and health,

28 Spring 2012 | The American Dog Magazine

and then utilize my knowledge by writing articles to help educate others. I especially love to be involved with people who love dogs as much as I do! What makes your pet food a little different from other pet foods? All our dry and canned dog and cat foods are wheat, corn, and soy free. We use healthy oils packed with omega fatty acids such as canola oil and salmon oil. Over the years we have updated our formulas as new nutritional research has become available. For instance, a few years ago we added taurine to all our dry dog foods to help protect against dilated cardiomyopathy. In addition, Solid Gold Health was the first pet food with all-natural, holistic products on the market, and we have been a pioneer of natural, holistic animal nutrition since 1974. Solid Gold is also an industry leader in the use of revolutionary foil “barrier” packaging for all our dry food products, which means we don’t have to use chemical preservatives or flavor enhancers. Barrier packaging keeps food fresher longer, maintains palatability, and helps sustain the potency of valuable vitamins and other nutrients, which may deplete over time with conventional paper bags.

INNOVA PRIME ®

means

PROTEIN Innova® PRIME offers GRAIN FREE nutrition with protein exclusively sourced from a single category — fish or poultry or red meat. With farm-fresh fruits and vegetables like apples and carrots, your pet will get the nutrition he needs to make the day prime. It’s grain free nutrition at its best. Naturally.

nd looking good!

STEPPIN' OUT

RAEGYN

LUCY

ZOEY

ANNA

ECCO

MOKI

MAYZIE

MADDIE

JADA The American Dog Magazine | Spring 2012

ENJOY LIFE

STOP SMELL THE FLOWERS

ZOEY

BILLIE TINE VALEN

JOBE Y E L R A B

RUBY COAL

RUSTY

JUNEA

BARO 32

Spring 2012 | The American Dog Magazine

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Spring 2012 | The American Dog Magazine

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DYLAN The American Dog Magazine | Spring 2012

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Spring 2012 | The American Dog Magazine

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TRUE GRIT

KC PET PROJECT Takes Kansas City Animal Shelter on the Journey to becoming a

NO KILL SHELTER By Brent Toellner, President of the KC Pet Project

Every year, approximately 4 million dogs and cats are needlessly killed in shelters across this country, many of them in municipal shelters that are underfunded and mismanaged. Like municipal shelters in many cities, the Kansas City, Missouri, animal shelter was mismanaged—marking only a 40% live release rate in 2008—and was unable or unwilling to solve the problem. We figured the best solution for homeless animals in Kansas City was to have the shelter go under private management. In 2007, many animal welfare advocates spent time meeting with various city council members and candidates and gained some traction for this idea. Then,

in 2008 the city opened the shelter up for bids from private groups. I was, at the time, naively surprised when some of our larger organizations did not bid on the contract. A private veterinarian put in the bid that got the contract. By 2010, the shelter live release rate was up to 63%. However, because concerns over animal care caused the city to terminate the contract, in the spring of 2011 the city put the contract back up for bids. Once again, we waited to see whether some of the large organizations would have any interest. One ended up bidding. Three people—Michelle Davis, and Heather Clenin, and myself—all of whom strongly believed that a 90%

38 Spring 2012 | The American Dog Magazine

save rate was possible in Kansas City, decided it was time bid on the city contract to run the animal shelter. We formed a group called the Kansas City Pet Project (www.KCPetProject.org). While the three of us knew a lot about no kill policies, we didn’t exactly know how to run the day-to-day operations of a shelter. Therefore, the first step was to find a shelter director to manage the day-to-day operations of the shelter if we were to get the contract. After placing a few phone calls to people we knew, we found Kim Staton, an experienced shelter director, to help us manage the disease issues that plagued the shelter and to support the policies that would make no kill possible at the shelter.

TRUE GRIT photos courtesy of KC Pet Project

Next, we needed money. Because the city paid for the contract in arrears, we would need about one month’s operating expenses in order to meet payroll and startup costs. You don’t have to be rich or a wealthy organization to take over an animal shelter. We talked to other animal welfare groups and to politicians and civic groups to find donors who would help us raise the necessary up front working capital. (I would recommend having about 1/10th of the total contract amount in up front working capital.) With enough money to meet payroll, we were ready to go. We then began working on our request for proposal (RFP), answering every detail, ensuring we didn’t miss anything major. We laid out our business plan showing how we would increase adoptions, handle returning pets to owners, and conduct the day-to-day operations of the shelter. Based on the city’s budget, we determined what its budget was for the animal shelter— knowing that this was our baseline for pricing. This is a tricky process because on the one hand, we needed our bid to be affordable for the city, but on the other, we didn’t want to leave ourselves without enough money to have the adequate staff to be effective. After issuing the RFP, we had several rounds of negotiations with the city. During the negotiations, we were asked if we could lower our costs—which we did, but with a caveat. We would lower our cost if the city animal control would agree to not unnecessarily seize animals from their owners. So, as part of the contract, the city would stop seizing animals for noncompliance with regulations, with the exception of cruelty/neglect, and would no longer

issue quotas for the minimum number of animals that the officers should bring into the shelter. After several months of negotiations, Kansas City Pet Project was awarded the contract. We had 35 days to hire our new team and get ready for our opening. With the help of an aggressive adoption special, a lot of media coverage, and a compassionate public, we were able to find new homes for 181 animals in just our first week of operations. The average weekly number in 2011 was 64 adoptions. Getting the shelter to a 90% save rate won’t be easy. The shelter is 40+ years old and is outdated, designed for an era when catch and kill was the mantra. Also, it is in a terrible location with little or no drive-by traffic. Kansas City is like many older urban cities with a fairly high poverty rate (17%), and we’re surrounded by breed bans that make adopting out certain breeds of dogs difficult. However, there is little doubt that our team of smart, hardworking, and compassionate people can and will be successful. These are some of our keys to success:

Using 5

smart intake and cleaning protocols to help solve disease issues that have historically plagued the shelter

Providing kennel enrichment pro6

grams that will help curb behavioral problems that often develop in a shelter environment so adoptable animals remain adoptable

Working 7

with other shelters and rescues to help us lower the shelter population

Continuing to work with the city 8

to create effective policies that minimize intake numbers and help us improve return to owners

Relying on our dedicated team of 1

Sometimes a municipal shelter can be improved by simply changing leadership. However, if your city shelter proves to be unable or unwilling to manage its own shelter, then private leadership may be required. In order to create this opportunity, make friends with your local politicians and other area shelter and rescue people. And when an opportunity becomes available, do not necessarily wait for other large organizations in your area. You may very well be the best one to step up to the challenge.

Creating offsite adoption programs 2

For more information or to contact:

KC Pet Project Kansas City Animal Shelter 4400 Raytown Rd Kansas City, MO 64129

volunteers to work with animals, do fundraising events, and create marketing materials

to give opportunities for our adoptables to find homes in places other than our poorly located shelter orking with the media to continue W to get the word out about our life-saving efforts

Eliminating 4

blanket adoption requirements that minimize our pool of adopters

1-816-513-9821 www.KCPetProject.org Email: info@kcpetproject.org Facebook.com/KCPetProject Facebook.com/Kansas-City-Animal-Shelter

The American Dog Magazine | Spring 2012 39

DOGS IN LOVE! LEILA & OSCAR

LESTAT & BULLET

JASPER & SIERRA

TANNER & HONEY

PEANUT & MUNCHkIN

SAVANNAH & BIANCA 40

Spring 2012 | The American Dog Magazine

DOGS IN LOVE! JAkE & JETT

RHODA & WALTER

BRODY & SYLVIA

HANk & SWEETPEA

RUSTY & MIA

TILLIE & LENA The American Dog Magazine | Spring 2012

44 Spring 2012 | The American Dog Magazine

ROLE MODEL: COMPASSION photo courtesy of BAD RAP

BAD RAP

Securing the future of the American Pit Bull Terrier as a cherished family companion

By Donna Reynolds, Co-Founder & Executive Director

You know, this was lonely work until recent years. Not many were helping these blockheads when we first started BAD RAP. Some thought we were rather eccentric and maybe even a little foolish for focusing so many energies on—you know—PIT BULLS. But we felt that, if we stuck it out, eventually people couldn’t help but notice how wonderful the dogs were, and when they did, we hoped maybe they’d join in and help them, too. The Vick dog rescue was, of course, a life milestone for us. When the dogs’ stories came out with their amazing lessons, so much changed practically overnight that we thought, “Okay! Are we done now? Have we done all we can, and can we now go back to being anonymous dog owners?” No way, Jose! That case opened so many new doors for the dogs that we really didn’t have any choice in the matter. The most critical time in these dogs’ history is right now while so many are opening their hearts to them, so we’re determined to help them to the finish line. Positive change is happening at

such a breakneck speed that it is breathtaking. Breed discriminatory policies and laws are falling down, shelters are embracing Pit Bulls, more and more rescue groups are cropping up, and even the media is starting to talk about the dogs differently. It’s exhilarating when you consider how bad things were going for the dogs in the late nineties. Miles to go before we sleep, though! Ohio’s pending triumph is, hands down, one of the most important and encouraging changes to happen for Pit Bull-type dogs. For over twenty-five years, the dogs and the people who love them have been held captive by a discriminatory law that labeled Pit Bulls vicious at birth. But a new generation of wiser, more compassionate leaders has stepped in to sweep that bias away. Now the no-mercy law is being replaced by a bill that regards dogs based on their behavior rather than their appearance. Such progress! It’s going to take a lot of work to bring things back into balance for the dogs

there, and we’re doing what we can to help. This spring, we’ll be headed back to Ohio to work with dog wardens so they can start to include Pit Bull-type dogs in their adoption programs. We started this work in Cleveland last year and have been so proud to watch that city kick their breed specific legislation (BSL) to the curb, embrace the dogs as deserving individuals, and forge dozens of happy adoptions. Ohio shelters and rescue groups are going to need a lot of help to set the dogs on the right path. If you’re a dog lover in this state, find a way to hook up with an organization that’s working to help these dogs so you can add your fuel to their fire. It’s an incredibly exciting time to be a breed advocate. Join us!

For more information or to make a donation: BAD RAP P.O. Box 27005 Oakland, CA 94602-0005 Website: www.badrap.org Email: contact@badrap.org

The American Dog Magazine | Spring 2012 45

"Overall, this is the best dog training video I've seen. Yes, better than the Monks of New Skete, or any pop culture TV show on Animal Planet. These folks really care and are sincere about helping people create a true and long lasting relationship with their dogs. Highly recommended to all dog owners!" ~Amazon review

46 Spring 2012 | The American Dog Magazine

ROLE MODEL: DEVOTION

STUBBY DOG

Photo By flyin fur Pet PhotograPhy

laura PeTrolino wiTh Paisley, PeanuT & Bruschi

REDISCOVERING THE PIT BULL BECAUSE PIT BULLS DON’T DESERVE THEIR BAD NAME! By laura PeTrolino, vice PresidenT of oPeraTions for The sTuBBydog TeaM TM

StubbyDog™ was formed in 2009 and launched in 2010. We observed all the wonderful organizations and their amazing work on behalf of Pit Bulls— from rescue and rehabilitation to shutting down dog-fighting operations and tackling legislative injustices, etc. Unfortunately, despite all their terrific work, there still remains well over a million Pit Bulls being killed in shelters every year. So what was missing? An organization whose sole mission is to change the discussion and public perception and, in turn, to make the world a kinder place for these wonderful dogs! Our goal is for people to no longer view Pit Bulls as a special category of dog but, instead, as just a dog. StubbyDog is a nonprofit, 501(c)(3), focused on changing public percep-

tions of Pit Bulls. Our mission is to help people rediscover Pit Bulls as lifelong friends. We have made a big commitment to rescue and advocacy as part of our daily work. In addition to reporting on current issues, we work very hard to educate our readers on the in effectiveness of breed discriminatory legislation (BSL). We also have a very successful “Rescue Dog of the Week” program, in which we work with shelters across the country that have Pit Bulls in need of adoption. In 2011, our focus was on building a strong and active community of Pit Bull advocates while developing an editorial position of value. With a Facebook fan page tipping 25,000 fans and a website that has tens of thousands of viewers daily, we feel we have met this goal. But, our overall strategy is to change the conversation. Rather than continue the old negative

and apologetic conversation about Pit Bulls, we generate a new positive storyline—one that shows them holistically as heroes (e.g., rescue dogs), healers (therapy dogs, etc.), athletes, and loyal and loving pets. We will use this momentum to make this next year all about outreach and introducing ourselves to an evergrowing audience. We will continue with our multi-media model through a variety of initiatives. Expect to see some big stuff from StubbyDog in 2012!

For more information or to contact: Please visit their website at: www.stubbydog.org Become a fan on facebook: www.facebook.com/stubbydog follow them on twitter: www.twitter.com/stubbydogs

The American Dog Magazine | Spring 2012

ROLE MODEL: DEDICATION

BLESS T H E B U L LY S

Photo courtesy of Bless the Bullys

By jodi Preis, founder of Bless The Bullys

In 2004, I started Bless the Bullys: Pit Bull Rescue and Education because I fell head-over-heels in love with the breed after I adopted Tiffin, my first Pit Bull in 1998. He was the ultimate companion, and he brought so much joy to my life. I wanted to help others know that bond and that joy. My knowledge of Pit Bulls before Tiffin was pretty nonexistent because, to me, a dog was a dog. I started reading and researching the breed, but it didn’t take very long after Tiffin came into my life that I began to notice the “Pit Bull stereotype” was also cast upon me. Having a Pit Bull in your life is a challenge, and more often than not, the challenges come in the form of discrimination and bias from society rather than from the dog himself. Not only are Pit Bulls categorized in a derogatory manner, but their owners are as well. We have to be great role models and set an example to others in our community because the media is not Pit Bull-friendly, and there is, unfortunately, never any shortage of negative Pit Bull stories in the news. Since starting the rescue, Bless the Bullys has helped 107 dogs find their

forever homes either directly through the rescue or by assisting shelters or good Samaritans. And this year, I am putting a lot of focus on National Pit Bull Awareness Day to make 2012 the best year yet. I’m working on a new website, so it can be used as a greater tool to educate and inspire others to take active roles in changing the image of Pit Bulls. In addition, I’ve reached out to the very Pit Bull-friendly director of our local shelter with a proposal for breed specific legislation (BSL)/ Pit Bull workshops in our community, and she is extremely receptive to the idea. Of course, we always look forward to Bully Bonanza with our friends at East Tennessee Pit Bull Rescue in the spring, as well as Dogapalooza and Bark in the Park here at home. Bless the Bullys is not the typical rescue organization—it’s a one-person show. In addition to taking care of all the dogs, I work full-time in a hectic law office, and I don’t have a lot of time for event planning. In that respect, though, I’m like a lot of people. I’m just a person with a passion: to make a positive change for Pit Bulls. My passions are Pit Bulls and the law, so it’s

Spring 2012 | The American Dog Magazine

jodi Preis wiTh harlan and kane

only natural that my area of focus is on the legal side of the Pit Bull issue. Since 2005 and my first victory over a breed specific ordinance, the focus of Bless the Bullys has shifted dramatically from being strictly a rescue organization to becoming a predominantly BSL-fighting organization. Being a one-person rescue limits the number of dogs I can physically help, but my efforts with respect to fighting breed discriminatory laws allow me to help dogs and their owners across the country.

For more information or to contact: visit the website at: www.blessthebullys.com email Jodi at: jodi@blessthebullys.com Become a fan: www.facebook.com/Bless-the-Bullys

ROLE MODEL: MOTIVATE

ROWDY TO THE RESCUE chris hughes and the gang

Photo By lenore trindade of the Picture takers in westlake, ohio

Photos courtesy of rowdy to the rescue

By chris hughes, founder of rowdy To The rescue

I started rescuing Pit Bulls because there is a huge need for it. I see how people look at the breed, and I’m on a mission to change that negative stereotype. When I was a competing power lifter (and a very big guy), people would always look at me and say how they would not want to come across me in a dark alley; I feel that is the way people look at the Pit Bull. If you actually knew me, you would know I wouldn’t hurt a fly. I decided to make a difference, and in 2009 I founded Rowdy to the Rescue, which is named after my first dog Rowdy (a Golden Retriever). We help the abused and unwanted dogs who, at no fault of their own, are left to die at the shelter. I look at these dogs, and it breaks my heart to know that people abused them and then left them out in the cold to fend for themselves. In 2010, I was concentrating my efforts on getting all of the nonprofit statuses we would need in order to help the dogs in the biggest ways possible, and

since 2011 we have rescued, rehabilitated, and re-homed over 100 Pit Bulls. As a rescue, because it’s important to network with other rescues, I have two favorite groups that I like to support: BAD RAP and Animal Farm Foundation. Not only have they done so much for their own cities, but they travel to help other cities that are going through problems. Both rescue groups played a huge part of Ohio HB14, which changed the laws for Pit Bulls throughout the whole state of Ohio. They are amazing advocates, and Pit Bull owners throughout the whole country owe them a huge “thank you”! As an avid dog lover, I take my dogs to work with me every day! My family owns the North Ridge Racquet Club, so I spend a lot of time behind the desk, and people will come into the club just to see the dogs. I’ve had so many people come in and tell me before they’d joined the club, they were afraid of Pit Bulls. But now after meeting the

Spring 2012 | The American Dog Magazine

pack, they love them. So I think we are changing minds every day. We also run a therapy program that involves six Pit Bulls who are all registered therapy dogs. We visit local schools to talk about animal abuse, and the dogs participate in a reading program. In 2012, we are trying to raise money to purchase land to build a therapy center. The community will be able to bring their children to the center to work with therapy dogs. We also want to get the Rowdy to the Rescue dogs service trained to help with post traumatic stress disorder and to visit battered women shelters.

For more information or to contact: visit the website at: www.rowdytotherescue.com email chris at: rowdy2therescue@gmail.com Become a fan: www.facebook.com/gremlin

ROLE MODEL: INSPIRE Josh liddy with sway

JoSh liddy

Photo courtesy of swaylove.org

By josh liddy, founder of swaylove.org

My life was forever changed by my own encounter with a Pit Bull back in 2001. I was lucky enough back then to cross paths with this stray dog who came timidly out of a cornfield and directly into my life. This ended up being Sway. I took her in, and she was my absolute best friend and shadow from the moment that I picked her up. So in complete truth, that’s where all of my love and passion for this particular type of dog comes from, and I’ve been advocating for Pit Bulls in some capacity since that very day. I love all animals, but when you share your life with a Pit Bull, you see firsthand how all of the obstacles that are placed in their way play out. This is extremely disheartening and unfair, and I decided to do something about it. I had seen on Facebook how numerous individuals were lending their time and skills to photographing and then networking these shelter pets over the Internet, and how for some pets, those actions helped save their lives. By nature, I’m a pretty creative person—I have a background in both photography and graphic design—so I thought this

was a good way that I could volunteer my time, benefiting something that I genuinely care about. So my photography and networking efforts started in August 2010, when I created a Facebook page www.facebook.com/swaylove for networking shelter dogs; then a few months later I went live with the website of the same name, www.swaylove.org. After I was actually onsite at my first Los Angeles animal shelter, I quickly realized that the sheer number of impounded Pit Bulls far outweighs all of the other breeds of dogs combined. This was the moment that I decided to photograph the dogs consistently and to focus on the Pit Bulls specifically. Not only are they grossly discriminated against by the general population, but they are marginalized in all sorts of other ways—all unfair, and all leading to them being killed first and most often. At the end of the day, I want to bring awareness to the realities of what these dogs, Pit Bulls, are up against. I want to start conversations that eventually lead to people seeing Pit Bulls for what they truly are, great dogs.

Anyone can do what you see me out doing. All you have to do is just care about the animals. I tell people all the time that I’m not special. If you’re inspired by me in any way, my hope is that you would grab your camera and go visit your local shelter. Once you step through those doors, you will hopefully be called to take an action. If you’re not a camera person, just take treats; if you don’t have treats, then just spend time with the dogs. Time, genuine concern, and love are priceless for these dogs—most of whom will be passed by without anyone stopping to look at them. That may be the only compassionate interaction that dog receives in the entire day. That’s very important on a basic level.

For more information or to make a donation: visit the website at: www.swaylove.org Become a fan at: www.facebook.com/swaylove Become a friend at: www.facebook.com/josh.liddy.claritysix

The American Dog Magazine | Spring 2012

ROLE MODEL: PASSION

are a new and small rescue, in just a few years we have put together the following programs in our community:

Foster and Adopt Program In the past few years we have taken in just under 30 dogs who are kept in foster homes until we find permanent, loving homes with carefully screened adopters.

Good Dog Great This program was started as a way to reach those people whose dogs need a little extra help with training or who would like to know more about the Pit Bull breed.

Daisy Davis Outreach Program -

One day, a friend saw a man dragging a sickly dog down the street, and she could see the dog was clearly frightened of the man. My friend called the authorities and the dog, Daisy, was taken away from him and placed into a foster home. I promised to walk Daisy every day, and after spending time with her, we adopted her as dog #4 in our house—but my first Pit Bull. I was head over heels in love with her.

courthouse with many other Pit Bull lovers. After I returned home, I started fundraising for dogs in need. I spent the rest of 2007 and 2008 fundraising and volunteering. I also attended BAD RAP’s Pit Bull Weekend University in San Francisco, flew to Iowa to meet Wallace the Pit Bull at a Pit Bull Day class, and started working with our County Animal Control’s Pit Crew training class.

As soon as we got Daisy, I couldn’t believe the negative comments people would say about Pit Bulls to me, and I found it extremely frustrating. I would defend her and her breed. I would spend my days with the most loving, amazing, and beautiful girl, and then hear people use words such as “vicious,” “unpredictable,” and “killers,” to describe these dogs.

In 2009, I heard about a documentary that Brandon Bond had made called Vicktory to the Underdog. He is an award-winning tattoo artist in Atlanta, and he worked with three of the Vick dogs. Brandon organized the film’s screening as a fundraising event in Las Vegas; all of the profit would benefit the Villalobos Pit Bull Rescue in California. I flew to Las Vegas with a friend to attend this landmark event.

In 2007, the Michael Vick investigation broke. People would comment about how sick he was, but they would also talk about how Pit Bulls were born just to fight, among other cruel and incorrect comments. I decided to fly to Virginia and protest in front of the

When I got home from Las Vegas, I started Daisy Davis Pit Bull Rescue. That film Brandon and his wife, Ashley, made has been a huge source of inspiration for me. It shows that one person can make a difference. Even though we

52 Spring 2012 | The American Dog Magazine

We offer assistance with dog-related issues, such as helping with spay and neuter costs, building fences, providing private training, and giving recommendations for finding Pit Bullfriendly housing.

Daisy Davis School of Pits and Friends This program is a huge success. This basic obedience class is taught by local dog trainer Crissy Wilson Tadlock and her award-winning dog, Echo the Deaf Pittie Mix. It’s free to all Pit Bulls and Pit Bull type dogs. We have definitely changed minds in our community regarding Pit Bull stereotypes in many different ways, and we all have the power to make a difference. Think about what you can do to help make a difference. Change can start with one smile at a time.

For more information or to contact: Daisy Davis Pit Bull Rescue 144 N. Franklin St Fort Bragg, CA 95437 Email Monica at: daisydavispitbullrescue@gmail.com Become a fan at: www.facebook.com/daisydavispitbullrescue

FAMOUS DOGS

WITH FRIENDS Photo By fusaro PhotograPhy

"BLESSINGS OF BELLA"

"THE RISING STARCHANEL COCO THE CHIHUAHUA"

"MIA SIDENER"

"MR. WILSON THE ELDERBULL"

"SAGE MAGNOLIA SCHRECK"

"LUCY THE WONDERBULL"

Photo By erin Barnes PhotograPhy

"TWINKI GURL" 54

"GIANT GEORGE"

Spring 2012 | The American Dog Magazine

"JUNO'S PLACE"

FAMOUS DOGS

ON FACEBOOk!

"CUDACARES.ORG"

"MYLEE THE CHIHUAHUA"

"TURBO TUSKER TOOTHLESS JACK RUSSELL"

"TROWA'S BARK"

"GEORGINA THE PRETTY ORANGE PITTIE"

"PUDDIN' BT EXPLORER EXTRAORDINAIRE"

"KEIRA THE PIBBLE"

"THE AMAZING LEROY"

"SPIKE CONNELLY"

The American Dog Magazine | Spring 2012

FAMOUS DOGS

WITH FRIENDS

"GORGEOUS THE ITTY BITTY PITTIE"

"TANK"

"JERICHO THE PHOENIX"

"KONA KRONICLES"

"BEAU THE PIT BULL"

"COCOBEAN'S FRIENDS"

"PACO'S HOPE"

"CAUTION THE GENTLE GIANT"

"RUBY'S TALE"

Spring 2012 | The American Dog Magazine

FAMOUS DOGS

ON FACEBOOk!

"MARTINI SACCO'S"

"PIPER STONE THE PAINTING BULLDOG"

"NAZZY"

"DENALI THE DOG"

"HUNKY HERC"

"SCOOTERS PAGE"

"NORMAN THE BRIARD"

"GREMLIN"

"INDIGO WHEELED TERRIER JONES" The American Dog Magazine | Spring 2012

PIT BULLS AND THEIR PARENTS ARE SO INCREDIBLY FRIENDLY!

"SPARTACUS"

"CRICKET"

"ZIGGY"

"SOVANN"

"AXLE"

"MARV IN" Photo by Flyin Fur Pet Photography

"JAKE" 58 Spring 2012 | The American Dog Magazine

"COCO"

"BRUSCHI"

ADOPT A FABULOUS PIT BULL AND YOU'LL HAVE A FRIEND FOR LIFE! photo by Amiee Stubbs Photography

"SAVANNAH"

"SMOKE"

"BUSTER"

"SHILOH JENKS"

"HONEY"

"COOPER

"ELLIE MAE"

"BISCUIT"

"DIXIE"

The American Dog Magazine | Spring 2012 59

DOG PARENT FAMILIES

Dog Parent Families

who love their dogs and treat them

like family!

David Edelstein and Laura Hagan with their 6-pack; Obi, Zoey, Lily, Forrest, Mr. Kane and Little Daze Visit www.TeamPitaFull.org 60 Spring 2012 | The American Dog Magazine

DOG PARENT FAMILIES To find out more information about these wonderful dog parent families and their amazing canine kids please visit www.theamericandogmag.com/dog-parent-families for an in-depth interview on each family and life with their dogs!

John Schill with his 5 dogs; Junior, Bob, Petey, Winston and Zoey photo by Tom Pierre Pic of the Litter Photography

Mary Schacherbauer with her 7 dogs; Maxine, Grace, Bailey, Joey, Tippy, Sam and Gorgeous photo by Richie Schwartz of PetsPhotography.com The American Dog Magazine | Spring 2012 61

DOG PARENT FAMILIES

Julie Manard and her dog Tiger photo by Al Chang

Cristi Maklouf, her sons Malik and Kaden with dogs Aries and Leyla photo by Simply Expression Photography

Jennifer Albright and her Pittie Ace 62 Spring 2012 | The American Dog Magazine

DOG PARENT FAMILIES

Stacey Sanders & Justin McLitus with Marvin and Cricket photo by Stacy Dubuc

Eric & Leah Brewer with Reesey, Bruno and Elle

Allie Bowling & Joe Menendez with Rileigh, Angel, and Gunner Photo by Flyin Fur Pet Photography The American Dog Magazine | Spring 2012 63

DOG PARENT FAMILIES

Lance and Kyra Lifta with Duffy, Sadie, Tallie, Zena and Daisy photo by Smythely

Ron & Vivian Karpowicz James & Dawn Taylor with their Pug - Pia Pia 64 Spring 2012 | The American Dog Magazine

with Tyson and Sanka

DOG PARENT FAMILIES

Dawn Goehring & HER pack of 13 dogs plus one foster (10 Shown) photo by Christine Rich

Jeffrey & Alysha Hibson with Jack, Ryan, and Bullet

Jason & Paula Shupe with their 6-pack of dogs; Onyx, Zara, Cira, Oliver, Mia and Banks The American Dog Magazine | Spring 2012 65

TRAINING

A SUCCESSFUL RELATIONSHIP TAKES EFFORT By Doug and Elizabeth Simpson, Owners of Tenderfoot Training

Only 2 in 10 dogs remain in their original homes in America, the rest are euthanized or rehomed (often multiple times). Does this statistic surprise you? People quit on their dogs for every reason imaginable: house training, barking, aggression, digging, jumping fences, expense, illness, general disobedience, and even moving (as if they don't allow dogs in the town they are moving to!). All of these problems would be preventable if the person had planned ahead and were willing to put in the effort. Few relationships

are perfect and usually require some kind of effort to succeed, but for some reason people fail to make the necessary commitment with their animals.

addition, it’s vital to set aside the time to build a wonderful relationship so you don’t regret bringing this furry four-legged into your life. Magic doesn’t happen without effort.

No matter how your dog comes into your life, the success of your relationship and the enjoyment of the experience depend on you. Your commitment to preparing your life for your dog matters. For example, you must adjust your budget to include food, medicine, veterinary bills and emergencies, training, grooming, and boarding. In

We mistakenly believe that dogs naturally know how to be good. Often, the problem is that their people don’t know how to teach them good manners or how to create a balanced and respectful relationship. Here are some simple guidelines to help you raise a great dog and have the relationship you’ve always hoped for.

66 Spring 2012 | The American Dog Magazine

TRAINING

•

Create a balanced relationship based on love, trust, and respect. Love is always the easy part. Trust and respect must be equal parts of the pie and maintained for the lifetime of the relationship. Dogs are like perpetual children who always need a wonderful parent looking out for them, keeping them safe, guiding them into good decisions, and creating structure in their daily lives. Engage your dog’s mind. Ask her to do lots of things throughout the day to help keep the relationship strong and connected. The more you engage your dog, the calmer your dog will be, and the better leader you will be. The opposite is also true: the more recess your dog has, the more independent she will be, and that can lead to many behavioral problems. Teach your dog rules, good manners, and boundaries. Use your natural assets—voice (never loud), body language (never mean), and intentions (always good)—to teach your dog socially acceptable manners. It is quite simple to teach your dog to walk nicely by your side, to greet people calmly, to play nicely with others, and to do a dozen or more fun tricks. Everyone will appreciate your efforts, including your dog. Teach her a big vocabulary—at least 30 words. You really aren’t teaching

•

• •

your dog to sit or lay down (she already knows how), you are simply creating a positive association to your words and hand signals. Every action your dog can perform has a word and hand signal of association; every toy has a name, everyone in the house has a name, and every room in your house has a name. This will build a strong foundation for great communication. Teach and practice life-saving instructions. Is she good at come, leave it, drop it, stay, and stop? These simple skills can save her life. Make sure her skills are well practiced. It is all too common for people to spend time teaching their dogs good skills, but then as the dog shows competency in them, they stop practicing and the skills start to wane. Create harmony in your dog’s life. This is done with a balance of affection, play, structure, exercise, manners, tricks, patience, grooming, and recess.

•

or simply never show up. Instead of bolting after the squirrel, your dog should think, “SQUIRREL! What do you what me to do, Mom?” She should look to you for direction first before she reacts to chase. Don’t forget, you need to be ready with an answer. Remember, a confident leader has a confident pack! Dogs love nothing more than a wonderful relationship with a remarkable leader. Be the best leader you can be, and your dog will be the best dog she can be for you. If you don’t see yourself participating in the training and care of your dog, then don’t get one. Getting a dog isn’t just fun for today; it’s a commitment for the life of the dog, which can be 15 years long. How many detours could your life take in 15 years? Are you prepared to make your dog a part of it every step along the way? Dogs can be an amazing addition to your life; please be the amazing caregiver and companion they deserve.

Feed her proper meals (don’t leave food out all day), feed a top-quality diet, and keep her at a healthy weight (be able to lightly feel her ribs but not see them). This can add years of good health to her life.

For more information or to contact:

Your dog should look to you, the leader, for advice. If your dog will do this, then most of your problems will vanish,

Doug and Elizabeth Simpson www.tenderfoottraining.com (303) 444-7780

Love them & Lead them, Doug & Elizabeth, Tenderfoot Training

The American Dog Magazine | Spring 2012 67

DOG SPORTS

FUN ACTIVITIES

TO DO WITH YOUR DOG! Yes, there are dog sports. . . just for dogs! Put down the remote and get your dog involved in some competitive sports this summer. There are dozens of sports to chose from that are a lot of fun and you and your dog will make some great new friends!

Check out: AGILITY BIKEJORING CANICROSS CANINE FREESTYLE CARTING CATCHBALL CONFORMATION DISC DOG DOCK JUMPING FLYBALL FLYGILITY HERDING NOSE WORK OBEDIENCE TRAINING RALLY OBEDIENCE SCHUTZHUND SKIJORING TRACKING TREIBBALL WEIGHT PULLING 68 Spring 2012 | The American Dog Magazine

WORKING DOGS

SERVICE DOGS HELP FORMER SOLDIERS COPE WITH PTSD

C a m e ro n a n d h i s "b a t t l e b u d d y " H a rpe r

b y Ta m r a Mon a h a n

For veterans suffering from posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), the nightmare of war is an ongoing reality, even after they’ve left the battle behind. A car backfiring is a bullet flying overhead; a pothole in the street is a bomb crater; a nudge from a cart in the grocery line is a sneak attack from an enemy soldier. Coming home does not necessarily mean they’re safe. Coming home may be the beginning of another hell, a psychological torment from which there seems to be no escape. But man’s best friend may offer a way out of this emotional abyss. The natural

ability of dogs to be loving and caring toward humans is a large part of what these animals provide to people with PTSD, especially to those suffering from the debilitating effects of flashbacks. Crowds, traffic, loud noises, or even a simple bump from a passerby can send a veteran back to the horrors of war. Panic sets in and violence may ensue if the person is not pulled out of his mental crisis; this is what a service dog is trained to do. “Clients who have flashbacks need dogs who will gently lean on them or put their head in their lap to get them

70 Spring 2012 | The American Dog Magazine

out of the flashback,” says Erin Leeper, director of dog operations for Freedom Service Dogs in Colorado. “Animals sense stress, and these dogs were chosen to be service dogs for vets with PTSD because they have that quality and are super loving and affectionate.” PTSD service dogs are trained to bring vets out of flashbacks in different ways, depending on the person’s needs. Some people want to be jolted out of a flashback, so the dogs learn to gently jump up on them or lick their face. Others may simply need the dog to softly nudge them or push against their

WORKING DOGS

legs. If a veteran is having a traumatic nightmare, the dog will bark to wake him up. Having a dog as a constant companion is also important to those suffering from PTSD because they are hyper vigilant about their surroundings and often have difficulty with simple tasks like grocery shopping or walking on a crowded sidewalk. In situations where the vet is tense and may panic, the dog is trained to step in front of or behind him to keep others away. Initially, the person must give the dog a command to post or block, but after years together a unique bond forms, and the dog may automatically sense when his owner is particularly stressed or volatile. For Cameron, an Army Specialist, this special bond with his service dog has changed his life. As a result of a series of bombs that erupted next to his vehicle while serving in Iraq in 2006, he suffers from traumatic brain injury and PTSD. Harper, a beautiful Golden Retriever from Freedom Service Dogs, has become Cameron’s new “battle buddy” helping him cope with his physical and psychological challenges in the battle of life.

Eric and his PTSD service dog Mason.

“In combat, you can’t go anywhere alone,” he says. “You don’t go anywhere without your battle buddy. In civilian life, I want my service dog to be my battle buddy. I want the dog to go everywhere I go.” Many vets with PTSD isolate themselves in their homes, often never venturing out for years because the world is too overwhelming. They know what life was like before the trauma and desire to regain that freedom and peace of mind, but are unable to overcome the barriers keeping them prisoners in their homes and their minds. Service dogs can rescue them from their isolation by helping them to get out into the world again. Owning a dog means taking care of the dog—walks, visits to the veterinarian, and trips to the grocery store for dog food. When a PTSD victim makes the choice to have a service dog, they also choose to get back into life. This was the case for Eric, a veteran whose life became unbearable after a series of traumas, including the death of his mother. As a former soldier and border patrol officer in San Diego, Eric has been shot at seven times,

leaving him with psychological scars that continue to haunt him. His first major PTSD incident was in 2008 when he woke in the middle of the night sweating, shaking, and curled up in a fetal position from vivid dreams of being repeatedly shot. After this, Eric was plagued by depression, blackouts, flashbacks, and panic attacks, eliciting a fear to leave his home and an uncertainty of what would happen when he stepped through his front door. However, with the help of his service dog Mason, Eric is now able to live a normal life. “I would become extremely agitated and violent and scare people a lot,” he says. “It was not a good thing. Mason senses when I get into that position and he will come around and put himself in front of me and look up at me. Then I look down at those brown eyes, and I know I have to calm down.” Eric’s voice breaks and he wipes a tear away when he talks about the importance of Mason in his life. “He really saved me. I have someone to talk to now, and I can begin to live again.”

Photos courtesy of Freedom Service Dogs, Inc.

The American Dog Magazine | Spring 2012 71

DR'S CORNER

ALLERGIES IN DOGS By Leonard D. Jonas, DVM, MS, DACVIM, Wheat Ridge Animal Hospital

Allergies in pets are a very common and often frustrating problem for pet owners. Pets can develop allergies to foods, pollens, medications, airborne molds, fleas, and house dust. Fortunately, the number of pets susceptible to allergies is small; perhaps 10% of all dogs and cats. But for those unfortunate enough to have allergies, they can become very uncomfortable from the itch-scratch cycle that is often difficult to break. The allergic response is an abnormal immune reaction to certain substances in the environment that most other pets tolerate without problems. The itchy skin causes the pet to lick, scratch, and nibble the affected area in a concerted effort to find relief. The symptoms can intensify to include redness, open sores, and hair loss. It is very common for the pets to have flaky and oily skin, which is accompanied by a rancid odor. This condition is called seborrhea. 90% of pets with allergic skin disease will also have

an accompanying bacterial or yeast skin infection. The seborrhea, yeast, and bacterial infections contribute to the discomfort associated with the allergic reaction and must be addressed at the same time as the allergy in order to give the pet relief. It is important to remember that not all itching is caused by allergies and that other diseases must be considered when evaluating a pet that is scratching. There are three types of allergies frequently diagnosed in pets. Fortunately, living in Colorado, we are not often exposed to the most common allergy, flea allergy dermatitis. The second type is allergic inhalant dermatitis. It occurs most frequently in dogs and its symptoms usually develop between the ages of one and three years. Inhalant allergy is the canine version of the human hay fever problem. Afflicted dogs react adversely to allergens such as house dust, molds, and pollens of grasses, trees, and weeds. Unlike human hay

72 Spring 2012 | The American Dog Magazine

fever sufferers, dogs usually develop intensely itchy red skin rather than respiratory symptoms. The third type is food allergy. Dogs and cats can develop an allergy at any time to any type of food. Most commonly it is to corn, wheat, soy, beef, chicken, and/ or dairy products. The clinical signs of food allergies are indistinguishable from inhalant allergies. The majority of dogs with inhalant allergy are sensitive to a number of the airborne allergens, not just one. When they are exposed to the offending allergens, their immune systems react in an abnormal way, causing clinical skin problems. At the onset, a pet’s allergy is often confined to one season when plants and molds are actively releasing their pollens and spores. But, in most cases, over time the allergy becomes chronic with the symptoms lasting year-round. Heredity definitely plays a role in this type of allergy. Genetic susceptibility can be passed

DR'S CORNER Dogs and cats can develop common food allergies to corn, wheat, soy, beef, chicken, and dairy products

from parent to puppy in any breed of dog. Most veterinarians feel that Terriers, Labradors, Golden Retrievers, and Shar Pei’s are especially prone to developing inhalant allergy. Because of the genetic nature of the problem, it is important to understand that allergies cannot be cured but can be controlled. The dogs with inhalant allergy are usually a paw-licker, face-rubber, and an underarm-and-belly-scratcher. The dog’s skin may be bright pink or red. In some cases, the skin will turn dark brown or black. This color change is not a serious problem in its own right, but it does indicate that the skin irritation has been a long standing problem. It is not uncommon for hair loss, self-inflicted lesions and secondary bacterial infections to occur. In order to diagnose to which inhalant allergens the pet may be sensitive, intradermal allergy testing is performed. This method has been used for many years with people and animals suspected of having inhalant allergies. The procedure involves making small injections in the skin with allergens to which the pet is commonly exposed. If the animal is sensitive to any of the substances, a small red welt will appear at the injection site. The tests are essentially painless and most dogs tolerate them with only mild sedation. Dogs must be off antihistamines for two weeks and steroids for a minimum of two weeks (sometimes longer) prior to testing as these medications will interfere with the test results. In certain

circumstances we can use blood testing to assess for inhalant allergies instead of intradermal testing. When the skin tests have been analyzed, a vaccine can be made for the pet to treat the allergy. This is called immunotherapy. The pet is given increasing doses of selected mixed antigens, by injection, over a period of months. This alters the immunologic response, which reduces or eliminates the sensitivity to the allergens. The allergens are individually selected for each patient and are based on the results of the skin tests. The owner of the pet is easily trained to give the injections at home. Approximately 75 to 80% of pets that go through the immunotherapy program show improvement with their skin problem. It is important to realize that even with the immunotherapy, other medications will be necessary to control the pets’ allergy symptoms. These include corticosteroids, antihistamines, fatty acid supplementation and cyclosporine. Also antibiotics, anti-yeast medications, and bathing at time of flare-ups will be necessary to control the secondary bacterial and yeast infections and seborrheic problems. In summary, caring for the allergic pet takes a large amount of cooperation and communication between the owner and the veterinarian. This is a major factor in formulating a specific and individualized treatment regimen for each pet. Every patient is different and, therefore, requires a unique combination of control methods.

When an owner understands the disease process and his or her pet’s particular problems, it is possible to help the pet live comfortably with the allergy. Conscientious supportive care and a positive attitude can help you control your pet’s allergy and help you break the miserable itch-scratch cycle once and for all.

Dr. Leonard D. Jonas:

Dr. Jonas practices small animal

dermatology, specializing in the management of allergic and immune mediated diseases. Boardcertified in Small Animal Internal Medicine, his research has been extensively published. In 1984 he founded Wheat Ridge Veterinary Specialists which has grown through the years to now include fourteen board-certified specialists in seven different disciplines.

For more information please visit: www.wheatridgeanimal.com

The American Dog Magazine | Spring 2012 73

THE

DOG'S

KITCHEN

photo by Jamie M Downey

74 Spring 2012 | The American Dog Magazine

phot o by Jamie M Down ey

MAHI-MAHI STIR FRY For vegetables: Slice fresh green, red, and yellow bell peppers and put in a skillet with olive oil. Add the sliced carrots and zucchini and stir over medium heat till slightly tender. For Mahi-Mahi: Put oven on broil, low heat, and place the mahi-mahi on a cookie sheet with foil. Broil approximately 10 minutes on each side or till done. Then cut into bite-size flakes and mix with stir-fry veggies! The American Dog Magazine | Spring 2012 75

photo by Jamie M Downey

SALMON WITH BROWN RICE, PEAS AND BLUEBRERRIES For rice and peas: Cook brown rice per package instructions and cook peas till tender. For Salmon: Broil the Salmon on low in the oven for approximately 20 minutes or till Salmon turns a golden brown color and cooked thoroughly. When Salmon is cooked then cut into bite-size flakes and mix with brown rice and peas. Sprinkle fresh (if in season) or frozen blueberries on top! 76 Spring 2012 | The American Dog Magazine

WELLNESS BENEFITS OF COCONUT OIL FOR DOGS Coconut oil has many benefits for dogs and is commonly used to help with a dog’s skin problems such as dry skin and itching; improves a dog’s coat to keep it smooth and shiny; helps reduce weight; and relieve sore joints and symptoms of arthritis. Coconut oil also improves digestion and can be used for a variety of ailments and disease prevention.

BENEFITS OF CRANBERRIES FOR DOGS Cranberries have many benefits for dogs and are commonly used to help relieve symptoms of urinary tract infections. Because cranberries are rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, they can help enhance the immune system and protect from toxins.

BENEFITS OF SARDINE/ ANCHOVY OIL FOR DOGS Fish oils have many benefits for dogs and sardine/ anchovy oil helps to keep a dog’s coat healthy and shiny; reduces shedding; relieves allergies; and adds moisture to dry, irritated skin. This oil is loaded with Omega-3’s and Omega-6, which can aid with digestion and promote a healthy heart.

2012 77 77 The American Dog Magazine | Spring 2012

Africandogdesigns.com

HEALTH

“Cian”

Holistic

Alternatives

to Pain Management in Pets By Dr. Judy Jasek, Holistic Veterinarian

Are you interested in options when it comes to reducing pain in your pet? In this article, I will introduce some alternative methods of pain management and how they may be used to manage different types and causes of pain. The first step in determining the best treatment for pain is to identify the underlying cause of the pain. This can be difficult to find in animals because they cannot verbalize where they hurt. For example, a dog may limp on a front leg, but the root cause of that pain may actually be chronic pain in a hip joint. The limp in the front is caused by the dog shifting more weight to that leg in an attempt to limit the weight the hip joint must bear, thereby reducing the pain in the hip joint. In order to most effectively manage pain, we must look at the whole body and identify

all potential contributing factors. If traditional pain medications are given, the pain is merely masked, and nothing is done to address the root cause. Alternative modalities such as chiropractic, acupuncture, laser, and physical therapy will not only help reduce the pain but will also work towards resolution of the underlying problem. Acupuncture and chiropractic care can also provide valuable diagnostic information that will aid in determining the underlying cause of the pain. For example, my patient Cian is an 8 year old Irish Wolfhound who suffered from a serious neck injury leaving him in chronic, debilitating pain. When I first saw Cian, he had already been receiving regular chiropractic and acupuncture treatments. I began a course of homeopathic

80 Spring 2012 | The American Dog Magazine

injections customized to his particular set of symptoms. Cian’s owner says, “Our traditional options were limited, and all of them had side effects that were nearly as bad as the problem. All it took was a small blood draw and a series of tiny injections with a needle that Cian didn’t even notice, and WOW! Two days later he was running around like a puppy! The alternative treatment lasted several months and was easily repeated with the same astonishing results. A veritable fountain of youth of pain relief.” An important note when using alternative modalities is the significance of the additive effect. There is no magic bullet in most cases. Cian improved dramatically by adding the homeopathic injections, but he was already receiving chiropractic and acupuncture treatments.

HEALTH

“Maggie” Photos courtesy of Belleview Animal Clinic

Given alone, the homeopathy may not have had such a profound effect. Pain can be divided into two broad categories of duration: acute and chronic. Acute pain is typically traumatic, caused by things like a fall, cut, torn nail, bite wound, or surgery. You will know that your pet is hurting because he or she will immediately begin acting very differently—limping, crying out, or being unable or unwilling to walk. Chronic pain is caused by conditions such as arthritis, repetitive trauma, overuse, and structural abnormalities. It can be much more difficult to detect because the signs often come on gradually and may not be apparent until the condition is quite advanced. Another patient I treated was Maggie, a 5 year old Siberian Husky who has been missing a hind leg since she was a puppy. Her owner says, “My dog has three legs. Occasionally, she has very painful back spasms and cannot walk. I have had her treated with acupuncture, herbs, homeopathic solutions, and chiropractic treatments to ease the spasms and inflammation without using any NSAIDs [NSAIDs is an acronym for Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs, such as aspirin, ibuprofen, Rimadyl, and Metacam, among others]. With these treatments, she recovers quickly and without side effects.” Different types of pain are treated differently. In the short term, for severe acute pain, stronger pain medications may be used to keep your pet comfortable. For example, if your pet has a

traumatic injury, such as a broken leg that requires surgery to repair, there will be a great deal of short-term pain. In this case, I would use a combination of traditional and natural pain remedies. Narcotics, such as morphine or fentanyl will keep a pet comfortable after the trauma and surgery so they may rest and heal. The short duration will minimize unfavorable side effects that can occur with long-term use. In addition, I will use homeopathic remedies, both injectable at the time of surgery and orally afterwards, that not only provide pain relief but also enhance the healing process. As recovery progresses, the traditional pain medications will gradually be eliminated and the homeopathics will be continued as long as necessary during the healing process. In addition, ancillary therapies such as chiropractic, acupuncture, laser therapy and physical therapy will again have a profound additive effect that will not only shorten the recovery time but will also bring the pet back more completely. Managing pain will be different for each individual, and not all conditions can be completely resolved. Our goal is to reduce pain and improve your pet’s quality of life while minimizing the adverse effects of traditional pain medications. Dr. Jasek received her formal education at Colorado State University, including a bachelor’s degree in Zoology in 1984, and her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree in 1988. She began her career in a rural practice in Pocatello, ID and relocated to the Salt Lake City, UT

area before returning to Denver, CO in 2001. She purchased her current practice, Belleview Animal Clinic, in 2003 where she began a transition from traditional veterinary medicine to a more holistic approach.

Dr. Judy Jasek Dr. Jasek received her formal education at Colorado State University, including a bachelor’s degree in Zoology in 1984, and her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree in 1988. She began her career in a rural practice in Pocatello, ID and relocated to the Salt Lake City, UT area before returning to Denver, CO in 2001. She purchased her current practice, Belleview Animal Clinic, in 2003 where she began a transition from traditional veterinary medicine to a more holistic approach..

For more information or to contact: Belleview Animal Clinic 200 W. Lehow Ave Englewood, CO 80110 www.drjudyholisticvet.com (303) 794-2008

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NATURAL HEALTH with Dr. Elliott Harvey

CANCER AID FOR PETS Life Guard 4 Pets is a combination of active glucosides (2,6-Dimethoxyp-benzoquinone, PSP, amylase, protease) that has been put through many different processes in order to achieve its remarkable capabilities. I’ll attempt to explain how it works in many different ways on a cellular level to destroy cancer cells or, at the least, to weaken the cells’ ability to thrive while hitting them with a toxic blast!

Dr. Elliott Harvey is: the founder of Great Life Performance Pet Products and the maker of Dr.WooFrs Biscuits, Great Life, and his Gourmet Freeze-Dried Treats.

The mutated genes in cancer cells constantly urge these malignant cells to divide. In order to maintain the processes of rapid cell division (or proliferation), the cell metabolism must also be changed; the cell needs to adapt nucleic acids (RNA/DNA) and other constituents for its own use. Cancer cells adapt their metabolism to gain energy in a way that enables them to utilize the most abundant resource in circulation: glucose. (This is why so many “cancer diets” are based on no carbohydrates and no sugars.) In order to maintain a continuous proliferation, it is crucial that glucose is utilized continuously for synthetic (anabolic) biochemical processes. Tumor cells easily adapt to this glucosebased metabolism and are capable of taking up and using enormous quantities of this molecule—up to 20-30 times more than normal cells! While one part of glucose is used by cancer cells for energy production, another part will be used for the synthesis of nucleic acids, which are the building blocks of RNA and DNA.

If you have any questions: Visit www.doctorsfinest.com e-mail pethealer@gmail.com

To understand the very complex ways Life Guard 4 Pets works in layman’s terms, think of cancer as an evil entity that circumvents the natural process-

82 Spring 2012 | The American Dog Magazine

es in the body and establishes an evil empire, which then builds itself into a monster! It decreases the glucose uptake of tumor cells in a dose dependent manner and inhibits the production of ribose and deoxyribose—a sugar that is the backbone of DNA. It also inhibits key enzymes that cancer cells need in order to grow. Further, Life Guard 4 Pets enhances TNF-alpha (tumor necrosis factor alpha) production, thereby inhibiting tumor angiogenesis. Angiogenesis is the ability of a cancer cell to keep itself well supplied with blood. It produces an enzyme that tells the circulatory system to send up more circulation, or blood supply. A lot of research in the United States has been focused on antiangiogenesis, but because Life Guard 4 Pets works on many fronts, it is a more powerful weapon. Life Guard 4 Pets deconstructs cancer cells by turning them back into what they were before the onslaught of cancer took control and cleverly used these natural processes to grow itself at an enormous rate. Life Guard 4 Pets also has an immunemodulating effect by exerting a selective inhibition of MHC-I (main histo-compatibility-I) expression on the surface of tumor cells. Life Guard 4 Pets helps to restore the immune system to its pre-damaged condition. The MHC genes are responsible for regulating antibody recognition, which means Life Guard 4 Pets is useful in autoimmune diseases, as well. It also has significant anti-inflammatory effects and supports detoxification, aiding the body in disposing of the dead cancer cells and any toxins formed in the process of apoptosis, or programmed cell death.

“

Until one has loved an animal, a part of one’s soul remains unawakened.

“

~Anatole France

“

No matter how little money and how few possessions you own, having a dog makes you rich.

“

~Louis Sabin

Zoey and Zeus with the ir brother Zack!

“

There is no psychiatrist in the world like a puppy licking your face. ~Bern Williams

FEATURE AUTHOR

Julie lewin GET POLITICAL FOR ANIMALS and Win the Laws They Need What inspired you to write your book Get Political for Animals and Win the Laws They Need? Local and state laws to protect animals are primitive and poorly enforced. I want that to change, and it can! The time and energy that advocates expend in their pursuit is wasted because they don’t know the basis for wielding power in the lawmaking arena. The animals pay the tragic price. Animals can get strong laws and enforcement, but only if advocates form political organizations that endorse candidates in their towns, cities, counties, and states. I wrote the book to convince advocates to embrace the political and show them how to do it. It’s a comprehensive, how-to manual that, fortunately, receives amazing praise. I want to create a mini-revolution in how animal advocacy is pursued. What is your book about and the message you want to convey to readers? It explains why political organizations are the key to power, and details how to launch one. Political groups formally endorse the best candidates and mobilize their supporters to vote for the group’s endorsed candidates. Here’s why they work: The top priority to lawmakers is to be re-elected. The top factor that determines how a lawmaker votes on your bill is whether he fears that, come election season, your group will endorse his/her opponent if s/he votes wrong. The merits of a bill are low on the list of factors that determine its fate. Even a very small political group can drive law on its issue. Even a small political group can determine the winner in what appears to be a landslide

electoral victory. The book explains by breaking down election-day math. Do you feel you have helped, motivated, or inspired people to take action? Definitely! Political groups are sprouting up around the US, gaining political savvy and skills, and winning good laws and defeating bad ones. One example: A very young southern group gives my book and myself credit for its passing a state law that bans gas chambers. The group also brought me to their city to give a training workshop. Are you personally involved in any type of animal legislation in your city or elsewhere? I’m leading a fight against a hunting proposal in my town. I’m also involved with some state legislation. For years, I did full-time statehouse lobbying for a number of prominent animal rights charities (they didn’t have political groups). Lobbying for the charities was how I learned that our movement was at a kindergarten level by not lobbying through political organizations. Animal advocates are the only issue group that doesn’t. Other issue groups don’t waste their time lobbying through charities. Do you have a favorite moment or legislative victory that stands out? A puppy next door who was chained 24/7, 365 days a year, and got me into animal rights. My life’s mission was to pass a state law prohibiting such treatment. I formed a state political group and quickly passed the first state

Spring 2012 | The American Dog Magazine

law limiting tethering. Some of the best victories are defeating anti-animal bills that are considered unstoppable. I became a strategist to contend with, and I emphasize and explain strategic thinking in the book, webinars, and workshops. You can order the book Get Political for Animals directly from the website and contact Julie by email about future workshops or webinars in your city. Photo courtesy of nifaa

~ Julie lewin with her cat simon

For more information or to contact: national institute for animal advocacy 6 long hill farm guilford, ct 06437 (203) 453-6590 www.nifaa.org email: info@nifaa.org facebook: national institute for animal advocacy

FEATURED AUTHOR

lisa preston NATURAL HEALING for Cats, Dogs, Horses, and Other Animals

What inspired you to write your book Natural Healing for Cats, Dogs, Horses, and Other Animals: 150 Alternative Therapies Available to Owners and Caregivers? Animals have always held my interest, and caring well for them naturally follows. I like medicine in general and physiology in particular. I like to know where ideas come from, so the book reports on the founding of so many alternatives. I’m interested in how things—bodies, minds, training issues, whatever—work. I’ve read countless books on dog care and have not found a guide like this available. Most books cover one or two dozen alternative treatments for our animals, and they tended to take a position of being either for or against alternatives. I wanted a fair, comprehensive study, so I ended up doing that study and writing the book.

consider how we can err in evaluating proof and how both our biases and expectations often mislead us in assessing a course of treatment. The book starts and ends with this discussion on making informed choices. The need for such careful consideration is the primary message I wanted to convey. Do you feel you have helped or inspired people to take better care of their pets? I feel great about the help people can find in the pages of my Natural Healing book, and I’ve already received emails and direct comments from readers who have learned from the book and been inspired to consider animal care more carefully. Dr. Race Foster, of Doctors Foster & Smith Pet Supplies, told me he’d learned and been inspired by the book, and then he wrote the foreword.

What is your book about and the message you want to convey to readers?

Do you have any personal stories of using alternative therapies to help your own animals?

It is about choices and how we make them. The book reviews a huge variety of alternative treatments for animals, the different types of alternative practitioners who offer these treatments, plus the critical thinking we must do to make informed decisions. A discussion of good critical thinking helps readers

Quite a number of personal stories are included in the book, as well as stories of other animal caregivers’ experiences with alternative treatments for animals. One example of a personal story not in the book is a sweet old dog whose lameness was dramatically reduced with cryotherapy.

Cryotherapy is an application of cold medium to the patient for therapeutic effect, and it’s one of those treatments that can straddle the worlds of alternative and mainstream medicine. This was a big, old, mixed-breed mutt who was dead lame with a soft tissue strain on her distal front leg. She received ice on wetted fur, applied for a full, quiet fifteen minutes, four or five times a day for three days straight, and she was cured. Cryotherapy combats uncomplicated inflammatory strains wonderfully if we’re faithful to its administration. If we’re lax, those sorts of strains are more likely to drag on, recur, or never really heal.

For more information or to contact: visit the website at: www.lisapreston.com email lisa at: lisa@lisapreston.com Become a friend at: www.facebook.com/lisa-Preston Photo By B. Johnson

lisa Preston

The American Dog Magazine | Spring 2012

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BEDTIME BOOKS charlie a love story By BarBara lamPert

Jack the dog: and his boy By victor Brodt with c.s. case

the complete idiot's guide to natural health For cats and dogs By liZ Palika

raising my Furry children By tracy ahrens

things your dog doesn't want you to know By hy conrad & Jeff Johnson

sergeant rex the unbreakable bond between a marine and his military working dog By mike dowling

The American Dog Magazine | Spring 2012

HAPPILY EVER AFTER

and they lived happily ever after!

HOPE AND HER SISTER CAMILLE Angel City Pit Bull’s Eve-Marie Kuntzman says, “Things weren’t always so lucky for Hope. While most people were enjoying their holiday preparations this past December, Hope was wandering the streets of South Los Angeles. Alone, cold, starving, and afraid, Hope found herself upon the doorsteps of the animal shelter. She was four years old, emaciated, and neglected, so you can imagine the excitement when the shelter workers found she had a microchip! Could this be a happy ending for Hope? Eagerly, the shelter staff contacted Hope’s family, only to hear them say, “We don’t want her anymore.” The shelter workers didn’t abandon Hope, and thanks to a village of support, Angel City Pit Bulls was able to rescue her just in time for Christmas. With her medical needs taken care of and a few much-needed pounds put on, a family contacted us wanting to meet Hope. It was love at first sight, and Hope was adopted! And in the true spirit of hope, not only has her life become a testament of never giving up, but she gets to pay it forward as well. You see, one of Hope’s human parents has cancer, and now it’s her turn to bring hope to the people who love her. Hope now spends her days full of happiness, surrounded by care, compassion, and love in a quiet seaside town in California.”

Spring 2012 | The American Dog Magazine

HAPPILY EVER AFTER

LUCY THE WONDERBULL Lucy’s mom, Jadrian Johnstun, says, “I got Lucy when she was around 9 months old from the Pasadena Humane Society. She had been purchased at a pet store as a puppy by some people who were not prepared for the responsibility of owning a dog. She was left outside in an outdoor kennel day and night and then ended up being abandoned on the streets to fend for herself. She was hit by a car and attacked by another dog before the Humane Society picked her up as a stray. They took great care of her, and that was where I found her! I knew I wanted a rescue dog, and when I found Lucy (or should I say we found each other), it was love at first sight! I took her home and gave her lots of love and spent a lot of time training her. Now Lucy is on her way to getting her Canine Good Citizen award and then on to being a therapy dog!” If you’d like to follow Lucy on her journey, you can follow her blog at www.lucythewonderbull.blogspot.com or become a fan at www.facebook.com/LucytheWonderbull.

Photo By Jadrian Johnstun

LADY BUG THE PIBBLE MIX Lady Bug’s mom, Merrily Tithof, says, “It was October 17th, 2009. My daughter was driving home from college at night, and in the middle of the road she saw a very scared and extremely thin young dog. She stopped and got out of her car. This poor dog was so scared that it ran around the car for a while before my daughter was able to get her in the car, and then she brought Lady Bug to our home. She was so thin, and her paws were bleeding and blistered, probably from walking forever, and she was covered in fleas and ticks. But she was also the sweetest dog and such a gentle soul. A quick overview of the situation and this poor baby was fed, bathed, and slept so soundly—as if she had not slept in days. Within a few weeks, she had gained not only weight and confidence, but also a family that consists of 4 other rescued dogs, a kitty, and 2 horses! Lady Bug now lives the good life and is a complete bed hog, couch potato, and play machine. She is spoiled rotten, but never has there been a more gentle, loving, silly, goofy soul than this ‘unwanted’ baby. Lady Bug encompasses all that is wonderful about stopping, taking a chance, and saving a life.” Become a fan at: www.facebook.com/Lady-Bug-The-Pibble-Mix.

The American Dog Magazine | Spring 2012

HAPPILY EVER AFTER BRUNO AT THE SHELTER Photo By alycia hayes

Photo By tara aBernathy

BRUNO'S

y r o t S

By heaTher cunninghaM, PresidenT of casTaways PeT rescue, Tells The sTory:

When Bruno was four weeks old, he was dumped in an alley next to the garbage cans and just left there to die. It is believed that his breeder may have stepped on him as a puppy which resulted in his back legs being paralyzed. Thankfully, a lady found him and brought Bruno to the Chicago Animal Care & Control (CACC) where Alycia Hayes from the CACC Transfer team of volunteers saw him. She fell in love with Bruno, and when she realized he was paralyzed she was determined to find him a safe place to go. Alycia posted his picture on Facebook on Oct 13, 2011 with a plea to find a rescue, and on Oct 16th Castaway Pet Rescue stepped up and arranged for transport and a foster family. Bruno moved in with his foster family and lives with seven kids and another dog! Brunoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s foster mom, Tara, takes Bruno for his therapy visits at Tops Veterinary Rehabilitation in Grayslake, Illinois. He was going every week in the beginning, starting off with just acupuncture

because he had kennel cough from being in the shelter. When Bruno first came into our rescue, the veterinarians determined that he had no feeling from his back down to his legs. His legs just dragged behind him, stiff as a board. Then, after his first acupuncture session, he wagged his tail. We were all so amazed and thankful! After his second acupuncture session, Bruno moved his leg for the first time. We all really think he is quite the miracle. From there he progressed at an amazing pace. When they added the hydro treadmill, there was no stopping him. His foster dad built him some wheels, and he was so happy. This really helped him use his legs more and more each day. He was growing by leaps and bounds, and his dad kept having to modify his cart until he just was too big for it. Tops recommended at that point that a cart would not be in Brunoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s best interest anymore because he needed to use those little legs to build muscle. Now we are actually stopping the acupuncture and increasing his hydrotherapy to

Spring 2012 | The American Dog Magazine

three times a week, because his veterinarians think this will benefit him the most. He does very well walking once he gets going, but he tires easily since he still needs to build muscle and gain coordination. The vets are confident that Bruno will be able to walk on his own with continued therapy. Bruno is ready for adoption now. For more information about him, become a fan on Facebook at: www.facebook.com/BrunosStory or contact Castaway Pet Rescue.

For more information or to make a donation: visit the website at: www.castawaypetrescue.org email us at: castawaypetrescue@gmail.com Become a fan on facebook: www.facebook.com/castawaypetrescue Become a fan on facebook: www.facebook.com/Brunosstory

it doeS not mAtter

hoW SloWly you go,

. . .AS LONg AS YOU

DO NOT STOP! ~CONFUCIUS

R o ck y

N i ge l

Ace

Pugs y

Tr o o p e r

ADOPT A SPECIAL NEEDS DOG FROM YOUR LOCAL SHELTER AND YOUR LIFE WILL BE FILLED WITH LOVE, ADORATION, AND PURPOSE!

HAPPILY EVER AFTER

CHEYENNE

photo by Hillary Kladke of Paw Prints Charming Photography

Cheyenne’s mom, Sarah Jackson, says, “In 2008 I was on my way to a wedding when my best friend called from Tennessee. She said she knew I had always wanted an English Mastiff and told me she and her mother had rescued a puppy from a backyard breeder. I was stopping at her house that night and told her I would look at the puppy, but that I already had two large dogs and a small house. When I arrived, I met the puppy who was all skin and bones, full of fleas, and was so shy that she would barely look at humans. My friend told me her story of how a couple decided to breed purebred Mastiffs and sell them to make money. Apparently, they weren’t good at the selling part and my friend’s mom was told that the breeder had injured a puppy and killed it, and others had died from health problems. In the end, Cheyenne was the only one to survive. My friend’s mother had to argue with the guy to get him to give her Cheyenne. On my way home I drove back through Tennessee and brought Cheyenne back to Louisiana with me. She was very skittish of humans, but now she is doing much better, and she has other dogs and a human toddler to play with. We have moved from the tiny house to one with a large fenced yard on the lake, which she loves. Her growth was stunted from the lack of care as a puppy, and she maxed out at 95 pounds, so people think she is still a puppy. Her muzzle is getting gray now so they won’t keep making that mistake!”

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photo courtesy of Sarah Jackson

SHILA Shila’s mom, Rose Tremblay, says, “Shila was brought to a Florida rescue in February 2011 as a stray with a broken leg. The rescue couldn’t afford to fix her leg because it would require an amputation, so they brought the 5 month old Pit Bull Terrier to the animal shelter to be euthanized. Erica Daniel, founder of Dolly’s Foundation, happened to work at the shelter, and as soon as she saw Shila, she knew she had to save her. Shila was taken to the veterinarian, and he confirmed her left front leg would have to be amputated. After her surgery, Shila was fostered and rehabbed by Erica as the newest member of Dolly’s Foundation. In April, I started fostering Shila temporarily, and we introduced her to my sister-in-law’s 6 month old lab puppy, Molly. They became quick friends and frolicked and played all day, every day. We were concerned about how quickly they bonded and how hard it would be on Molly when Shila was adopted out. At the end of the first week, I took Shila to an adoption event. While we were gone, I was told that Molly kept searching the house for Shila. On her 8th day in our home, I called Erica and said I was a foster failure and I was keeping her forever. Erica came over on April 22nd with the adoption contract. We couldn’t be happier. Shila is the absolute light of my life, and every time I look at her I thank God that Erica was there that day and that she saved this wonderful girl for me!”

HAPPILY EVER AFTER

WALTER THE ELDER BULL Walter’s mom, Lynn Ready, says, “Walter was found abandoned and wandering the streets of Steubenville, Ohio, in a rough neighborhood. The shelter where he ended up was not allowed to adopt out Pit Bulls (they’re euthanized), but a friend there managed to get him out of the shelter and give him to me. I wasn’t intending on adding another dog to our pack, but Walter turned out to fit in very nicely with our family. Our vet thinks he is at least ten years old and pretty hard of hearing (deaf ). It became evident quickly that Walter was very obedient, gentle, and friendly with all people and dogs he met. So I decided to see if he would be able to pass the Canine Good Citizen and Therapy Dog International tests. In only a few short months, he did! He now works as a therapy dog doing work with kids in local libraries, visiting residents at an assisted living facility, and [participating in]various events for the local shelter—the Western Pennsylvania Humane Society. Walter busts stereotypes every day by showing people that you can rescue an old Pit Bull and still have a terrific family pet!”

photo courtesy of Lynn Ready

SPARTACUS THE WONDERBULL Spartacus the Wonderbull’s mom, Amy Brakhane, says, “Spartacus was starved and abused and then dumped at the shelter. He was so weak he couldn’t stand or walk on his own. Spartacus was so skinny that his hip bones stuck out, and the vet said that he was very sick and needed medical care. So the shelter found a wonderful foster mom to take him in and get him healthy. The day we went to the shelter we starting talking to one of the animal control officers about Pit Bulls. As we were getting ready to leave, I saw a lady walk in with a Pit Bull puppy that was so skinny, you could see his ribs and hip bones. I couldn’t help but love him when he came up to me. The lady (foster mom) said she couldn’t keep him because the other dogs she had were showing aggression toward him. We adopted Spartacus on the spot and brought him home to meet the other 3 dogs in our family. It was love at first sight for all four of them! Spartacus the Wonderbull now has his own Facebook page and shares his love with others."

photo by Amy Brakhane

The American Dog Magazine | Spring 2012 93

HAPPILY EVER AFTER

BOBOB Bobob’s mom, Meghan Lodge, says, “Bobob was a shelter baby. He had been there over six months with no adoption prospects in sight. One of the kennel staff told almost every person that looked his way that he was going ‘kennel crazy,’ and that most certainly deterred possible adopters! Bobob was placed on the euthanasia list, and I adopted him two days before his time was up. I couldn’t have asked for a better dog. He loves to go on walks and play with his tennis balls. He was labeled an Australian Cattle Dog/Bulldog (sometimes labeled Pit Bull) mix. A DNA test revealed that he is a Chinese Shar-Pei/Whippet cross mixed with a Dalmatian/Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever cross. His personality turns some people off because he tends to be aloof around strangers before he gets to know them. He does great with other dogs and puts up with his annoying little brother, Axle. Bobob is very responsive to training, and you can really tell he enjoys his new home. I love to tell everyone his story to encourage people to adopt a dog from a shelter.”

photo courtesy of Meghan Lodge

TREASURE Treasure’s mom, Deb Bauer, says, “In May 2011, I was looking at Shelties on Petfinder. There I found Snowy, a 3 year old double merle Sheltie, who had been born both blind and deaf. I fell in love with her immediately and knew she was meant to be part of our family. Snowy was in a shelter in Missouri, a long ways from me here in Pennsylvania. I contacted the shelter and was told she was already being adopted. My heart was crushed, but I kept her picture beside my computer, and I just couldn’t get her out of my mind. Through a twist of fate, 3 months later I got an email from the Sheltie rescue, where I had adopted my last Sheltie, that said they had taken in 2 double merle Shelties and one of them was blind and deaf. I emailed the rescue the picture of Snowy, and it was her! Turns out, after she was adopted from the shelter in Missouri, she made her way through two other rescues before finding herself at this particular rescue. Now Snowy is renamed Treasure, and she is a very loved and cherished member of our family. She is a registered therapy dog with PAWS for People. She is starting to participate in the READ program at the local library to help children to boost their reading skills, and she is a natural at the sport of K9 nose work too!”

94 Spring 2012 | The American Dog Magazine

photo courtesy of Debbie Bauer

HAPPILY EVER AFTER photo by Shari Yates-Morehead

AUGGIE Auggie’s mom, Shari Yates-Morehead, says, “The black Lab with the bandana on is our rescue dog, Auggie. He came to us from the city pound in Falls City, Nebraska, in November of 2010. He was severely underweight, had been dumped twice at the pound, and had a terrible separation anxiety attachment disorder. Because of his behavioral issues, Auggie was placed on the euthanasia list, and he had only 12 hours left, so we saved him. We didn’t plan on keeping him and were hoping to help him find a forever home with a nice family. Well, we did find him his forever home with a nice family— we are foster failures! Auggie is now in great shape, even a little chubby, and loves to sleep in bed with his grandpa. He also fits in very well with our large herd of fur kids. This picture (we’ve named “Teamwork”) was taken last summer showing him and some of his siblings here on the Nemaha River in SE Nebraska. The yellow Lab, Odie, just passed away from cancer but lived a charmed life, as will Auggie for the rest of his days. He is such a beautiful boy.”

BEAR “My name is Bear and this is my story: Five years ago my daddy took his nephews turkey hunting. Well, you know little boys get hungry, so they drove down the mountain to get some lunch. When they drove around the bend they saw me just sitting there all alone on the side of the road. I was cold, wet, and very hungry, and I didn’t have a home anymore.

photo courtesy of Wendy Rosson

I was hoping they would stop, but they drove by, just like all the other cars had. After a while, the same car drove back up the road, and it stopped! There were two boys in that car and they had food. They fed me a hamburger and some chicken and put me in their warm car and brought me home with them. When Mommy came home and saw me, Daddy told her that he had thought I was a little bear cub sitting in the road, and that’s how I got my name. I sure did get lucky that day because I have the best family in the whole world now and I never have to worry about being alone ever again. My mommy, Wendy Rossan, says that she is thankful every day that her late husband found me and brought me home that day!”

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HAPPILY EVER AFTER

JAGGER’S

y r o t S

Learning to be a dog again! By Jane Smith (Jagger’s mama)

(The writer’s name has been changed for the safety and security of her family and that of her dogs’ since crimes had been committed involving gangs, drugs, and dog fighting regarding Jagger’s rescue.) In December 2010, the sheriff ’s office was involved in a drug bust in Houston. Much was confiscated, including nine dogs who had been used for fighting. After some time, the court released custody of the dogs. Because all of the dogs had been labeled as dangerous, it was thought that they would never have a chance to be adopted, and thus, the euthanizing began. Luckily, one volunteer at the shelter scrambled to get hold of a bully breed rescue group, Treat ‘Em Right Rescue (TERR). The rescue stepped in and took the only three dogs who were still alive. Jagger was one of those lucky three; however, even now he is riddled with scars from his past. He is missing his right upper lip, exposing his teeth, he

has countless scars on his face and down his front legs, and he has gashes on his back and head. He was seen by specialists for his facial damage, and he had to have his severely damaged canine tooth removed from the exposed side of his mouth. After Jagger was rescued, he was boarded through TERR, and his story began circulating. I saw his story and thought about him often. I wondered who would ever want a dog who looked like him, had clearly suffered unimaginable pain, and would require so much work. When Jagger attended a fundraiser/adoption event for TERR, I went there to meet him. Jagger just sat in his kennel and watched everyone. The other dogs there were all getting loved on, but Jagger just

96 Spring 2012 | The American Dog Magazine

sat and watched. I took him out of his kennel and sat down by him and it was love at first sight. Since I had other dogs in my home, I wondered whether Jagger would get along with them since he had a questionable past with dogs. So I arranged to bring my Pit Bull dog out to meet Jagger. For the first few minutes it seemed like things were going well. But then unexpectedly, things turned negative, an altercation occurred, and the meeting ended. I was incredibly disappointed and left upset. Later in the day, I contacted the rescue again and asked for a second chance for the dogs to meet. I drove an hour every day to pick up Jagger from boarding. I would then take

HAPPILY EVER AFTER

him to a nearby park and walk around with him while a friend walked with my other dog. These walks went on for a couple of weeks. Eventually, the dogs did not react to each other and could care less that the other was there. Next, I started fostering Jagger on the weekends; Jagger was kept apart from my other dogs by a gate. They could see each other and smell each other, but they could not interact with each other. Jagger was also enrolled in basic obedience classes offered through TERR called Behave-A-Bulls. During class, Jagger’s fear was crippling. He would shake and barely move. Getting his attention took great effort. It was difficult not to scoop him up and tell him everything was going to be okay, but because he needed to learn confidence, coddling him would only negate his progress. As time went on, Jagger stayed in boarding less and less. Every day I increased the time of his interactions under strict rules and observation. Jagger went on

many “field trips” to a variety of places in an effort to build his confidence. And then one day, it was as if a switch flipped. Jagger seemed to realize that I was always there for him and that I would never let anything bad happen to him. It almost seemed like he became a rock star over night. He focused and learned in his Behave-A-Bulls classes; he was confident in meeting new people; and in controlled introductions with other dogs, he was like a new dog—one who finally let go of the past that plagued him and started taking advantage of the new opportunities in front of him. Jagger was becoming a spokesdog for the rescue, for bully breed dogs, and for dogs who have been used for fighting. He attempted his first Canine Good Citizen (CGC) test and passed 9 out of the 10 items—only slipping up on the stay. Although, no one blamed him for not wanting to stay because, just before the test, I became his new mom and officially adopted Jagger! There was much

celebrating from the rescue and Jagger’s other fans! Jagger took the Behave-ABulls class again, this time with his Pit Bull sister, and they both passed the CGC test. Jagger now lives happily as a family dog. He continues to be a spokesdog and attends events regularly. It is truly amazing to see a dog like Jagger make such a transformation in such a short time. He went from fighting and scared to loving and confident in only a matter of about six months. Jagger is proof that all dogs are individuals and deserve to be treated as such. He is not his past, but he lets his past teach a story for the future.

For more information about Jagger: Become a fan at: www.facebook.com/ LearningToBeADogAgain

About the rescue group: www.facebook.com/TreatEmRightRescue Website: www.treatemright.org

photos courtesy of Jagger's mama

The American Dog Magazine | Spring 2012 97

HAPPILY EVER AFTER

FRANKIE'S STORY Rescued from living

life on a chain to having a loving family

and sleeping in a bed

(under the covers)! By Sarah Logan (Frankie’s mom)

The information I have on Frankie has been passed to me through many hands. Frankie first lived in Kennewick, Washington, where there is breed specific legislation. He was seized from his first home, probably around the age of 8 to 10 months old. Due to the fact the seizure was complicated by police involvement and by another dog (a Lab) who was ordered by the owner to bite the police (which he did), Frankie was held in the shelter as “evidence” in a court case for many months. Once the court case was resolved, Frankie was adopted out. Things went from bad to worse. Frankie was discovered in December of 2010 in The Dalles, Oregon by Katharine who runs the rescue group Forgotten Dogs in Seattle. At the time, Frankie was chained outside with ten other dogs. None of the dogs were in good condition. Their “houses” were laughable—bits of trash and scraps nailed together. Katharine talked to the people there and convinced them to let her take Frankie into her rescue group. When he went into Forgotten Dogs, he weighed 54 pounds, compared to his current healthy weight of 75 pounds. He had bare patches and a poor coat. His ears were bleeding (and still have scars) from fly bites. Yet, what Frankie also had, that Katharine could clearly see, was a loving, gentle personality.

Frankie was nursed back to health in his wonderful foster home. There, he had two Pit Bull buddies to play with, and they were all ruled by a female Chihuahua. At the time I had been looking and looking for a Pit Bull boy to add to my family of three Pekingese since I had lost my two elderly Pit Bulls the summer before, a month and a day apart. I had checked out a dozen or more dogs at my shelter and on Petfinder over the period of a couple months. I was ready to give up, because I could not find “the one.” I went to Petfinder for one final search, planning to stop looking for a while if no one clicked with me. Then there he was – and his name (then) was Tiger. I knew he would be a perfect fit, because my female Pekingese is the one who rules this roost. I met him and his foster mom in Vancouver, WA. He was just what I was looking for—a big, goofy lug-head of a boy, sweet and affectionate. I decided to call him Frankie, and Frankie and I bonded almost immediately! Over the course of the past ten months, that bond has become stronger and deeper. The dog who once lived out in the elements—neglected, underweight, and lonely—now sleeps each night curled up next to me in bed under the covers.

98 Spring 2012 | The American Dog Magazine

He has become a certified therapy dog, and he comes to work with me in a nursing facility where he greets all his friends. Frankie goes to different training classes, enjoying the challenges and the treats. He has been to dog camp and enjoys running and playing with all his dog friends. His favorite toy is a Kong Genius with dog biscuits hidden inside. Frankie has not only won the love and admiration of many people, but has also shown them what wonderful dogs Pit Bulls really are. For all he endured, this boy has the gentlest spirit I have ever known. He is a big goofball, a clumsy oaf, a good natured fellow who is always ready for some fun. Frankie also adores cuddling and snuggling and curling up as close as possible with me, his special person. With a heavy, happy sigh, he rests his head on me and falls asleep, knowing he is loved and safe. Always. As a side note, Katharine was able to go back and rescue 3 other dogs: a female Pit Bull, and two herding-type dogs.

Become a friend of Frankie on Facebook at: www.facebook.com/Frankie No-chainedDogs Bullyboy

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